The Sophisticated Arkansan

Gun Control & Responsibility

2010-03-08T13:09:00.006-05:00

If you keep up with headlines, you've probably seen the gun control issue brewing in Virginia Starbucks locations. The second amendment gives us the "right to keep and bear arms." Gun control advocates say that the early law makers established that right around the freedom to form state militias, while proponents say that it's an individual right. I obviously wasn't around, and I don't know what the forefathers had in mind, but I do know that rights come with responsibility. Either way, the amendment gives us the right to keep and bear, not to flaunt, and I think that's what these owners are doing in Virginia. It's unfortunate that we have to be concerned with protecting ourselves and family, but that's a consequence of evil (a whole other blog post.) For that reason, I have a concealed carry permit. It involved a class, background check, a shooting test, a fee, and an assumed high level of responsibility. If I were to loose my privilege to carry, I would blame clowns like these guys.

Arkansas Landscaping

2010-02-26T18:54:00.003-05:00

Thought I'd share this laugh with ya. No, your eyes aren't fooling you...the stump is painted yellow!...saw it myself. Feel free to add your clever caption...

Spoiled by technology

2010-01-14T14:57:00.004-05:00

You know you've gotten spoiled by your iphone when you reach up to touch your computer screen! Although, I think hp came out with a touchscreen laptop. "I love technology...."

A Good Laugh

2010-01-11T22:43:00.004-05:00

I took this pic going down the road today. You may not think this is funny, but I did. Here's what the black license plate says that's bolted to the rear hatch..."I traded in a clunker"

Stupid Media

2009-12-21T23:58:00.003-05:00

The element of surprise is very beneficial in battle. I shake my head in amazment when I see headlines like this...

I'm no four-star general, but I don't really understand the strategy of giving the enemy information such as what kind of equipment we're using.

The Dentist and Accountability

2009-12-02T23:06:00.007-05:00

There are some things that are painful or not necessarily enjoyable but vital to our health, both physical and spiritual. I was reminded of this today as I had a dentist appointment and a meeting with a group of guys with whom I’m accountable.
Let’s start with the dentist. My dental visits aren’t actually that bad because I take fairly good care of my chompers. However, I’m not a consistent flosser, so I usually get a scolding for that. I’m proud of the fact that I’ve never had a cavity, but between us, I’m a little worried that one of my pearly whites may be in danger of falling victim to the sugar monster thanks to an increased addiction to sweet tea over the last few years. When my dentist asked if I had been experiencing any discomfort or sensitivity, I responded that I hadn’t. Well, that wasn’t the whole truth, but I was a little scared of what being honest would reveal. Plus, I had to be somewhere else very shortly. So, my lack of disclosure just might lead to a continuing discomfort and/or major incident in the future. We’ll find out in six months or sooner perhaps.
Closely related is the discipline of being held and holding others accountable in our walk with the Lord. We ask one another questions dealing with our time in the Scriptures, keeping our morality in check, and other areas of stewardship. It would be very easy not to disclose the whole truth and let others think that everything was fine, but it takes a bigger man to be honest when there is an issue and deal with it immediately.
Much like a daily regiment of dental hygiene, our spiritual walk requires consistency and transparency. The premise to this post…make a valid effort to know God, live holy, be transparent with someone you trust, be a minister of reconciliation to others, and….brush and floss.

CMT?

2009-11-12T00:10:00.003-05:00

Yet, another minor rant on my disgust with country music television...Taylor Swift, female vocalist of the year?...beating out Martina, Reba, and Carrie? Do the voters have peanut butter in their ears or something? Let's just call it what it is...a popularity contest. And hasn't Kenny Chesney worn those same slacks and button up shirt to the awards show the last 5 years?

“driving while intexticated”?

2009-09-03T11:52:00.007-04:00

Yeah, that was a new word to me when I read this article about texting and driving. Lately, I've been intentionally looking at what people are doing when I meet them on the road, and it's alarming. I met a guy yesterday in a hilly curve, going 45 mph, and he never looked up from his phone! Interstingly enough, the article noted that 95% of the folks surveyed said texting while driving was "unacceptable," but 18% of them had recently done it. We know it's wrong/dangerous, but we do it anyway. What does that say about our society? Where does that end?
It's scarry to think about this texting generation turning 16 and being on the road with phones in their hands. I had a tough enough time adjusting to the dangers of the road, and the only phone I knew of was a rotary dial!
In order to grasp the severity of the problem, a study was conducted at Virginia Tech, which concluded that texting was four times more dangerous than talking on the phone, while dialing or talking was 23 times more dangerous that a driver with no distraction.
Ok, confession time...I've done it too, but realizing the danger has led me to limit my texting and driving to certain situations where me, my vehicle, or an innocent animal would be the only victim of my irresponsibility. Seriously, this was my thought as I passed by the "hilly curve texter" yesterday...I really don't have anything that important that has to be said immediately. I can't bear the thought of seriously injuring someone or taking a life because I was sending a near meaningless text message.

Mr. Taylor

2009-08-26T22:35:00.011-04:00

Last week I got the cool oportunity to meet the man behind Taylor guitars. He and a couple of sales reps talked about the history of the company, the different body shapes, and unique woods. Bob amazed me with his knowledge of wood. I don't even know what trees are in my yard, and he's talking about the integrity and unique characteristics of Brazilian Rosewood! Bob explained that he and his team didn't set out to create the best sounding guitar since that's such a subjective thing, but they tried to make the best playing guitar; and Taylor guitars are arguably one of the most comfortable guitars to play. The rich sound is a bonus...in my not-so-professional opinion.

They also had a few guitars from the R. Taylor series, the Taylor boutique line, which were some of the most beautiful guitars I'd ever seen.
BTW...If you're wondering why Bob looks just as happy to take a picture with me, that's because we really hit it off. Be looking for my signature model Taylor guitar!

Respect to Les Paul

2009-08-13T23:58:00.001-04:00

The music world saw an icon pass on today. Les Paul, the creator of the solid body guitar, multi-track recording, and several other gadgets and effects, died today at the age of 94. This article gives an overview of Paul's accomplishments, who was most widely known for the mass produced Gibson model that bore his name. Every genre of music could probably find a spot for the unmistakeble sound of the Les Paul model guitar.

I met a guy in VA who owned a 59' model. It was estimated to be worth around $150,000, and he let me hold it! I was nervous and as giddy as a little school-girl (hence the dorky grin!)

I was fortunate enough to add a Cherry Sunburst LP (a.k.a. Flash) to my collection a few years back. I don't plan on parting with it unless Jesus won't let me take it with me, I have to sell it to eat, or someone has a loved one held for ransom...and I'd still have to think hard about those last two!

The Doctor is in

2009-08-11T01:07:00.012-04:00

After much research, much anticipation, and much saving my pennies...the Dr. is here. No, I'm not physically ill, it's a guitar amplifier. Handcrafted right here in the USA and used by The Steve Miller Band, Joe Walsh, Mark Lee of Third Day, Buddy Whittington, and most notibly Brad Paisley as well as a score of others.
Dr. Z amps are pumping out some of the unique sounds heard on the biggest stages and most popular recordings today. Now I just have to learn how to play it!
I realize that it may be impossible for the female readers to look past Keith Urban, but for those of you who can, look for the Z's behind Paisley; and that little wooden box on top of the blue Z cabinet is a Trainwreck amp. Yeah, $30,000+!!! Needless to say, the Z is the closest I'll get to Brad's tone! I just wish that I looked that good in a hat.

Country Music?

2009-08-04T14:20:00.013-04:00

This is going to be a short rant having to do with my thoughts on (the genre formerly known as) Country Music, so if you're not interested, I understand if you want to spend the next few minutes of your life doing something more productive.
So anyways, let's get down to the nitty gritty. I'm proud of the era in which I grew. It was Willie, Waylon, Merle, & Cash in their prime. Hank was just entering his outlaw phase, and I'd go into my sister's room when she'd leave for school, put on those huge honkin' earphones, and sing along to Family Tradition, Country Boy Can Survive, and so on. That period molded me into who I am today...not all bad, but not all good!
Aside from some of the negative influence, Country Music, I think, is special. It's all about the story. For instance, a friend of mine, who attends college in the cultural melting pot of Miami, decided to invite a few guys of different nationalities over for "Country Night." He cooked a Southern meal and played for them some staple Country. He said they loved it. Why? ...because it told a story. Yes, those stories may include a dog, a truck, momma, prison, and drinking, but they have the ability to make you laugh and cry all in a three minute period.
Why all this, you ask? In the last few years, Country Music has made quite a transformation. Now, I'm not opposed to all of the changes. I'm glad there were guys like Willie, Waylon, Merle, and Cash who shook things up years ago, and in recent years, Garth Brooks has left his mark on the genre as well as guys like Urban and Paisley who are taking things in another direction. However, there is a line, at least in my mind, before we abandon the roots of Country Music. I'm sickened at what I here some "Country" stations playing, and CMT...don't get me started! I'm so sick of Country Fried Home Videos, Trading Spouses, Nanny 911, and World's Strictest Parents! Come on!...and the CMT Awards might as well have been called the Taylor Swift Show!...and Can You Duet should be renamed "Can You Sing a Pop Song and Look Like A Rock Star." And this CMT Pure channel is almost as bad. They have bands on there that don't even own a steel guitar or a Telecaster...how rediculous!

My point is...why don't they just create a new genre for what they're doing instead of piggy-backing off of the blood, sweat, and tears that went into defining real Country Music? Nobody is messing with Rock-n-Roll...they called it Alternative. Nobody is messing with R&B...they called it Pop. I don't care what you call it as long as it's not Country, cause I don't think Waylon would have done it that way. I'm stepping down from the soapbox now, but I'll leave with this line from an Eric Church song..."any song sung by George Strait is Country at its' best."
Apparently others feel the same...enough to print up some t-shirts

Dave, I Feel Your Pain

2009-07-11T17:38:00.008-04:00

Well, I can't really feel his pain because an airline has never broken a guitar of mine, but I know the pain of trying to fly with an instrument. Years ago, it wasn't so bad. Airlines would let you carry it on, put it in an overhead compartment, or every once in a while, a nice flight attendant would politely ask if I would like for her to put it in the "stewardess closet"...like that was where the little black box was and it was safe in the event of a crash! I was always a little suspicious that they just wanted to get it out and put on a private concert for the first-classers!

Anyhow, things have changed. Now, when you walk up to the counter with a guitar case, the desk attendant looks at you with disgust if you even act like you want to carry it on. Most of my trips are ministry related, but she doesn't seem to understand that people aren't going to accept Jesus if I'm not playing my Taylor. Seriously, I sometimes think that they would let me carry a bomb on the plane before they would my guitar!
Sorry for your loss, Dave. I've only experienced a few busted latches and missing buttons on my cases, but I have a feeling that I wouldn't do what Jesus would if my Taylor came back to me in two pieces!
Update...Good news! United has offered that Dave be compensated. You can see his response and song#2 on YouTube.

Influence

2009-07-08T16:49:00.004-04:00

As I was watching the Michael Jackson tribute yesterday, I was particularly impressed with the recognition that the Lord, Jesus Christ received. Props to the Jackson family, the other artists, and the pastor for not being shy about the name of Jesus. One word kept circulating in me as I thought about MJ's life, and that was influence. Undoubtedly, he was one of the most recognized and influential persons of his time. He influenced some to pursue careers in the arts, he influenced a genre of music, he influenced some to be humanitarians, and so on. Though most of us will never have a platform as great as MJ's, we all have an opportunity to influence our own environment, however big or small that is. I sometimes think that while I may not necessarily be a negative influence in my world, I miss plenty of opportunities to be a positive influence on those around me. The Lord doesn't intend for us to only avoid being a stumbling block to others, He is thoroughly pleased when we actively and lovingly attempt to point others toward Him. So, those were my thoughts on the recent events, and I'd love to hear yours...

The Best Job in the World

2009-05-06T16:57:00.003-04:00

Yeah, I know...it's been awhile. I almost forgot my password. Anyway, read this article about this guy who won the "best job in the world" competition.

Description: Caretaker of an Austrailian tropic island
Duties: Explore the Great Barrier Reef for six months and report the findings
Compensation: $110,000

I could handle that, but, speaking unspiritually, my idea of the best job in the world might be getting paid to hunt and fish...or getting paid to play music. What's your idea of the best job in the world?

We Are Barabbas

2009-04-06T15:58:00.000-04:00

This was a great article I read online a few months ago...

38"What is truth?" Pilate asked. With this he went out again to the Jews and said, "I find no basis for a charge against him. 39But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release 'the king of the Jews'?" 40They shouted back, "No, not him! Give us Barabbas!" Now Barabbas had taken part in a rebellion. - Jn 18

Barabbas. A rebel. Maybe a killer. Perhaps a derelict of society. An outcast. He would possibly die for his crimes. I wonder what he thought in prison. "Well, this is it. I screwed it up so bad that this might be the end. If they don't kill me, I might as well kill myself because I will be a prisoner for a long time." Maybe he thought of escape. Maybe he played with the idea of killing the guard and running away. Maybe he had given up hope. "I messed this up, now I am responsible to pay for my actions." Maybe he tried to think of a loophole. There was none. Or was there?

It was tradition for one prisoner to be released during the Passover. What is the chance that Rome would actually honor that Jewish tradition? Slim. What are the chances that from all the prisoners, he would be released? None. He was no crowd favorite. Releasing him wouldn't make the world a better place. I bet even some of his family were hoping he would be locked away for good. The odd were so far against Barabbas, that he must have not even allowed himself to hope for such a release.

Enter the God of miracles and 2nd chances. Still in chains, Barabbas hears a crowd. What are they chanting? His name? Why? Is there a mob coming for him? The guard called Barabbas, unlocked his chains and let him go. He was a free man. His place was taken by another. From the corner of his eye, he catches a glimpse of another prisoner. A shell of a man. A man who would not be released. He doesn't care much who he is, he is just glad that this guy didn't get released. Barabbas walks away. Free.

Surely later he hears of the prisoner that was crucified. Surely Barabbas thought, "that should have been me." And it should have been. Barabbas belonged on the cross that day, but someone took his place. A man, but not just any man, freed him from his physical and spiritual chains. It should have been Barabbas, but it was not. Someone took the hit for him, and now he was free.

We hear nothing more from Barabbas. He walks away a free man and may have cared little for the one who took his place. Could he really be so cold? Before we point the finger, let's remember . . .we are Barabbas.

Copyright 2009, Scot Longyear at Resonate

Warning...

2009-03-23T22:00:00.003-04:00

Here's what happens when you make a guy with a backhoe mad...

Groundhog Day

2009-02-02T19:45:00.008-05:00

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today, so according to the legend, the U.S. will experience 6 more weeks of Winter. Let's hope that doesn't include any more ice storms! Speaking of Groundhog Day, a great movie bearing that title released in 1993. It was about a reporter, played by Bill Murray, who keeps living the same day over and over again. After the day had reoccurred several times, Murray starts looking at his life, this particular day, in a whole different perspective. He changes tires for some elderly women, he buys lunch for a homeless guy, and schedules to be in a certain spot to catch a young boy falling from a tree among many other deeds, which caused me to wonder...What would I do differently if I had the chance to live today over again?
Paul, in his letter to the believers in Ephesus, explains how a Christ follower should generally live. "Be imitators of God"..."find out what pleases the Lord" and "make the most of every opportunity" are just a few of his instructions. How would the day look if we asked ourselves how we could best imitate God in any given situation?

Halftime Entertainment?

2009-02-01T18:53:00.001-05:00

While I didn't particularly care who won the Super Bowl, the 2nd half was quite entertaining. I wish I could say the same for the halftime show. To be honest, I didn't expect much from the "boss," but I guess he's safe from any wardrobe malfunction...only showing a little too much chest hair. I suggest they cycle back around with U2 next year.

Paisley Party

2009-01-19T16:16:00.004-05:00

After two unsuccessful tries at catching a Paisley show, I wasn't going to get my hopes up until I sat down in my seat, but it really happened this time...and what a show it was! Counting opening acts: Gene Watson, Darius Rucker, Dierks Bentley, and Paisley, it was about 4 1/2 hours of music...and if you love the twang of a Telecaster like I do, you'd have loved every minute of it. Bentley put on a good show, and Paisley's guitar playing along with thier video production was AMAZING!...which makes me wonder why Kenny Chesney gets the Entertainer of the Year award.

iphone/touch Apps

2009-01-09T19:54:00.004-05:00

So, I got an iphone a couple of months ago, and I've been amused at all the useful and useless downloadable applications. Here are some cool games I have...Brain Tuner, Hangman, and the very addictive Word Warp. There is also a free language translator! If only I'd had this while in Peru! I did pay $5 for a bible trivia game...not worth it. The same questions repeat.
In the "useless" category...
Bubble Wrap for those addicted to popping that stuff. How annoying!
Zippo Lighter...a virtual flame for concert safety. It even reacts when you try to blow it out...amazing! I'll download this for the upcoming Brad Paisley concert although there aren't any "flame worthy" sort of Journey "Faithfully" moments at a Paisley concert.
and lastly...Aero guitar...I'm embarrassed to download it, much less be caught playing it! (you'd love that one, Heather!)

What other fav or funny apps have you found?

What was I thinkin?

2009-01-05T22:37:00.005-05:00

Have you ever been scrolling through the ipod and said..."what was I thinking when I bought that?" That happened to me recently when I found "Endless Love" by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross on my ipod. I knew that out of 4322 songs, there had to be more. So, here are some other "unique" purchases that I may or MAY NOT have made.

I'm Every Woman (Chaka Khan)
Caribbean Queen (Billy Ocean)
Cover Girl (NKOTB)

Please tell me I'm not the only one who does this.

Lost in Translation

2009-01-01T01:45:00.005-05:00

I was recently thinking about a trip to Peru a few years back. We took about 20 high school students to a village in the Andes mountains to help build a ministry center. After three days of some very intense labor, we had to travel to another part of the country, but we were leaving them the hand tools and supplies that we had brought. I gathered up all the work gloves to give to the group of workers that we had been working alongside. Although I've been to several Latin countries, my spanish is still quite lacking. I wanted to tell the job foreman that the gloves and tools were for him and his workers to keep, but I couldn't think of the word for "workers," so I decided to use the word for "brothers" instead. I noticed that he looked puzzled after our conversation but grateful nevertheless. As I was leaving, I realized that I had actually used the word for "sisters" instead. The visual of this guy returning home to his sisters with all these tools and gloves is forever etched in my mind.

Have you seen these?

2008-12-20T00:29:00.004-05:00

The Snuggie This infomercial kills me. Not only does it keep you warm in the Winter months...it also doubles as a Jedi costume for those Fall Halloween parties!!!

Save Hank Hill

2008-11-02T12:54:00.001-05:00

I was recently informed that one of my favorite shows, King of the Hill, has been canceled after 13 seasons. Hank resides in Arlen, Texas, and he is the epitome of a southern, blue-collar, conservative who is overly obsessive about his lawn, truck, dog, guitar, job, and making his son, Bobby, into a man. He is also accompanied by his wife, Peggy, who prides herself on being a multiple winner of the "Substitute Teacher of the Year" award, and his friends, Dale, Bill, and Boomhauer, who provide regular entertainment themselves. I do own several seasons on dvd, but I hate to see it come to an end. I propose that we, Hank fans, petition Fox to save Hank!

Willie Neison for President?

2008-10-29T19:58:00.007-04:00

I took this in my hometown, and I assume they meant Willie Nelson. Come on...it's Arkansas. No matter if they can spell or recognize letter case, I agree with em'. Can we "write in" a candidate on these new electronic voting machines? Seriously, out of all the people who are qualified to run for president, are Obama and McCain the best two guys we can put in the ring?!
So, it got me to thinking...What would a Nelson administration look like?

1. Pot would be legalized in all 50 states and U.S. provinces.
2. Toby Keith would be Secretary of Defense, and anybody that messed with us would get a boot up their #%~!
3. Ponytails on men would be cool again.
4. Farmers would be taken care of.

What else?

If only she were a conservative

2008-10-14T14:56:00.006-04:00

Sheryl was on Larry King last night promoting Obama. I almost couldn't stomach it. (sigh) Oh well, nobody's perfect. She was also among those who performed at the DNC...including Sugarland! Now Sheryl, as a Democrat, I can tolerate and somewhat understand but Sugarland? I propose that we (country music fans) boycott them along with that stupid, not-so-country song, "All I Wanna Do hoo hoo hoo hoo." I can't change the station quick enough!

Hypermiling

2008-10-09T11:07:00.000-04:00

There has been some relief at the pump here lately, but there is more we can do. The definition, according to hypermiling.com, is a "method of increasing your car's gas mileage by making skillful changes in the way you drive." I was first introduced to this practice by a news special on CNN. You can check out some of the methods, but CNN seemed to make fun of some of the extreme techniques such as: not using the brakes, coasting while killing the engine, and drafting behind large vehicles. Being the NASCAR fan that I am, I'm all about the drafting and even incorporating a little "bump drafting." (I recommend using this "advanced technique" only with people you know.)
I did experiment with some of the basic techniques, and, while I'm not an overly aggressive driver, my benefit was hardly noticed, if at all.

CMT Crossroads

2008-10-08T15:10:00.005-04:00

If you're not familiar with the format, CMT has a show where they match a country artist/band up with an artist from the pop/rock genre, and they cooperatively perform their best tunes. Supposedly, CMT filmed another episode of Crossroads this week featuring Def Leopard and Taylor Swift. Seriously, who is in charge of matching these artists up? After the episode with 38 Special and Trace Adkins, I'm beginning to think they are pulling names from a hat! Taylor Swift wasn't even born when Def Leopard was in their 2 year prime.
Though their hay day was short lived, I can remember when "Pour Some Sugar on Me" hit the charts. I was in the 6th grade, and I begged my mom to take me to get a Def Leopard t-shirt...wow.
To their credit, CMT has made some great match ups. John Mayer and Brad Paisley was incredible...as well as Sara Evans and Maroon 5. Sheryl Crow and Willie Nelson, I like individually but not together. I have a novel idea...let the fans choose who we want to see together! How bout' Eric Clapton and Keith Urban? Who would you like to see together?
By the way, I have a theory of how Def Leopard got their name. Arkansas School for the Deaf is in Little Rock, and their mascot is the Leopards...maybe just coincidence.

The Love of Money...

2008-09-24T22:13:00.003-04:00

I'm financially ignorant, so I wouldn't know the severity of the situation that has risen in the past few days were it not for Fox News and my friend, a stockbroker. I do tend to splurge in the area of guns and guitars, but I consider myself pretty low maintenance in the sense that I don't require much. For example, I think I could eat turkey sandwiches for three meals a day. I've purposely kept money from becoming a concern in part because I've witnessed third world conditions, and I'm grateful for every little thing I have. Anyhow, because of my financial ignorance, I don't have much to say concerning the financial crisis, but I did look up a few verses. Much has been said in the scriptures concerning money, but here are a few:

He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.
Ecclesiastes 5:10

"No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
Matthew 6:24

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have...
Hebrews 13:5

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.
1 Timothy 6:9-10

Often, this verse in Timothy is misquoted. I've heard many say that "money is the root of evil." ...not necessarily true. There is a responsibility to be a good steward with that which one has been blessed, but there is nothing wrong with enjoying what one has come by honestly. Paul was clear to say that the "love" or desire for money at all costs is the problem. We continue to see this play out in our society, and over the last few days, we've seen the truth of this verse in full bloom.

The End of the World as We Know It

2008-09-09T22:12:00.003-04:00

At 2:30 a.m. Central Time on Wednesday, scientist will turn on a particle accelerator called the Large Hadron Collider that lies 328 feet below the Franco-Swiss border. This machine hurls sub-atomic particles at one another at velocities approaching the speed of light. The collisions will create previously unknown particles that will reportedly help the non-creationists understand what happened during the supposed Big Bang. Some scientist believe that the LHC will also create time travel, but opponents say that the effects will create black holes that could swallow earth and destroy mankind.
In other news, comedian Steven Colbert is having his DNA sent to the international space station so that if humanity ceased to exist, then other life forms could replicate him and re-establish mankind. The problem is that the space launch isn't until November. Now, why didn't we plan these two events a little better? We're going to possibly destroy humanity on Wednesday, but we were planning to preserve it in November. It's a good thing that God is in charge because we'd mess everything up!

Ocho Cinco

2008-09-02T20:12:00.003-04:00

He made a name for himself last season for his 1,440 receiving yards and flamboyant endzone celebrations, and it is reported that the player formerly known as Chad Johnson has changed his legal name to "Chad Ocho Cinco" in reference to his Cincinnati Bengals' jersey number. I was just wondering what he was going to name his kids. Here are a couple of suggestions...
alto cinco (high five)
numero cinco (for his fifth kid)

Mi Espanol es limited. Can you think of any more?

Caption This...

2008-08-18T22:50:00.004-04:00

My friend took this pic in South Florida

Caption This...

2008-08-06T20:22:00.006-04:00

This is one of my most favorite things to do, so I would like to let you in on the fun and introduce a segment to the blog called "Caption This," in which you get a chance to submit a clever/funny caption to some of my favorite photos. Please participate & enjoy. I'll go first.

New Axe

2008-07-29T18:22:00.007-04:00

It's the signature sound of country music...the Fender Telecaster, and I'm the proud new owner of one. Isn't she beautiful?

National Cheesecake Day

2008-07-28T18:57:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite things about living in Ft. Lauderdale (besides the great people, good church, the beach, & the Ale House) was my close proximity to a Cheesecake Factory. When I felt like treating myself, I'd make the 10 minute drive, pick up a slice with a big strawberry on top for $7.50, and lick my lips all the way home before I sank a fork into this delicious dessert. Well, this Wednesday, they're celebrating 30 years with a $1.50 slice of cheesecake. Here's the bummer...I'm in Arkansas now, and the closest Cheesecake Factory is 4 hours and 7 minutes away in Chesterfield, MO. I don't think I'll be making the drive, but if you are fortunate enough to be near a CF... please, don't waste this opportunity...and if you would, leave me a comment and tell me what you had and how great it was.

The Fall Guy

2008-07-10T00:20:00.014-04:00

I went into Wal-Mart to pick up a couple of things, and there it was...The Fall Guy DVD. I was immediately taken back to my favorite TV show as a kid. I don't remember which network aired the show...oh yeah, we only had one channel until I was eighteen...it must have been ABC.
The show ran from 1981 to about 84. Colt Seavers (Lee Majors) was a stuntman and a bounty hunter with the coolest truck in the world. The babe of the show (and my first crush) was Heather Thomas. I had the Fall Guy lunch box, t-shirt, and the scale model of the truck. The acting quality was much less than an 8 yr old boy would notice, but it didn't matter as long as the truck was in the episode. I read where a truck that they used in the show sold on ebay in 2003. What I would give to have that truck!
Did I buy the DVD? Heck yeah! If you weren't fortunate enough to see an episode, then watch the intro and you'll see what I mean.

$timulu$ Package

2008-06-18T22:50:00.004-04:00

You don't have to be Warren Buffett to figure out that this "stimulus package" is not going to salvage our sinking economy, but even the left-wingers who hate Bush aren’t going to turn down FREE MONEY!!! Really, it cost the gov. $42 million for the mailer that let us know we were getting a check, then another $42 million to actually mail the check, and the package is reportedly worth $168 billion.
Anyway, I plan to stimulate the economy and myself with the purchase of a Fender Telecaster!

Going Green

2008-05-24T00:10:00.001-04:00

In recent years, the popular thing is to be “green” or ecologically responsible. This seems like a new idea, however, it’s nearly as old as time. The responsibility of mankind is given in Gen. 1:26-30, 2:15: “…let them have dominion…” God created a beautiful earth, and left us to keep it. We must realize, first, that the earth is His (Ps. 24,) and we are the caretakers. The main reason that being “green” has become so popular is because we’ve seen the results of our irresponsibility. Some examples…

The Atmosphere
Stratospheric ozone depletion threatens us with enhanced ultraviolet radiation at the earth’s surface, which can be damaging or lethal to many life forms. Air pollution near ground level, and acid precipitation, are already causing widespread injury to humans, forests, and crops.

Water Resources
Heedless exploitation of depletable ground-water supplies endangers food production and other essential human systems. Heavy demands on the world’s surface waters have resulted in serious shortages in some eighty countries, containing 40 percent of the world’s population. Pollution of rivers, lakes and ground water further limits the supply.

Oceans
Destructive pressure on the oceans is severe, particularly in the coastal regions which produce most of the world’s food fish. The total marine catch is now at or above the estimated maximum sustainable yield. Some fisheries have already shown signs of collapse. Rivers carrying heavy burdens of eroded soil into the seas also carry industrial, municipal, agricultural and livestock waste – some of it toxic.

Soil
Loss of soil productivity, which is causing extensive land abandonment, is a widespread by-product of current practices in agriculture and animal husbandry. Since 1945, 11 percent of the earth’s vegetated surface has been degraded – an area larger than India or China combined – and per capita food production in many parts of the world is decreasing.

Forests
Tropical rain forests, as well as tropical and temperate dry forests, are being destroyed rapidly. At present rates, some critical forest types will be gone in a few years, and most of the tropical rain forest will be gone before the end of the next century. With them will go large numbers of plant and animal species.

Population
A World Bank estimate indicates that world population will not stabilize at less than 12.4 billion, while the United Nations concludes that the eventual total could reach 14 billion, a little more than double of today’s 6 billion. But, even at this moment, one person in five lives in absolute poverty without enough to eat, and one in ten suffers serious malnutrition. (“World Scientists’ Warning to Humanity” issued in Washington, D.C., by the Union of Concerned Scientists on the 18th of November 1992, on behalf of over 1600 scientists, including a majority of the living Nobel Laureates in the sciences.)

This is proof of our irresponsibility. It's interesting that some of the people who are leading this “green” charge have no regards for God. It’s equally interesting and sad that those who profess faith in God aren’t among the leading proponents. Shouldn’t we, as God’s ambassadors, be the most responsible caretakers? Maybe our thought process is that the end time is drawing near, and we’re going to be taken from this world. Well, that’s hardly an excuse.
In all of this rambling, I’m speaking to myself as well. I’m one of the worst. While I don’t leave the water running while brushing my teeth, I do throw away many things that could be recycled, such as paper and plastics. I'm not going to go live in a tree or anything, but I am going to be more responsible because I think that we, as followers of God, should be more conscious of the issue and lead the charge as a biblical principle. Have you ever looked at being “green” as a biblical mandate?
You can find drop locations near you by going to earth911.org.

2008-05-16T22:00:00.003-04:00

This makes me want to try out for this show. All I need is a partner...preferably a girl that can wail while I play guitar and sing a few BGVs. Anyone interested?

Heather, after watching the ACM awards the other night and listening to what some are calling "country" music now, I was a bit sickened. I think we need to go after something a little more traditional. How about something from the Porter Wagner/Dolly Parton collection. I'll pick a suit, and we'll get you a dress to match. Look out Nashville!

Dang Weather!!!

2008-05-05T00:17:00.000-04:00

The snow and ice kept me from seeing Brad Paisley in January, and now the rain kept me from seeing Sheryl in Memphis. It wasn't just rain...I watched lightning hit one of the buildings in downtown Memphis. I like her, but I can think of some other ways I'd like to leave this ole' world. I read later that she did hang around and play for a few "devoted" or "senseless" fans (you choose.)
So what next...a cyclone when John Mayer comes to town?

Peter Stroud

2008-05-01T23:39:00.009-04:00

This evening was pretty cool. I had the opportunity to meet Peter Stroud, who possibly has the greatest job in the world...playing lead guitar for Sheryl Crow. He was at a local music store to hang out and promote a line of amps that he has helped develop. Though much of what he talked about was way over my head, these amps are well built and acheive the popular vintage sound of the Marshall and Vox amps at a low watt, along with a very warm tone for jazz and blues...very versatile. I just might have to start saving up for one of these jewels! Check them out at 65 amps

A Prodding Thought From Louie

2008-04-24T17:55:00.004-04:00

Another guy that has had a major influence on me is Louie Giglio. Since I began listening and reading his work around ten years ago, Louie has always had a challenging word from the Lord that seems to hit me square in the chest. This week, worshiptogether.com posted an interview with Louie. They asked about the path that led him to where he is today, but towards the end, he made a statement that I've been thinking on the past few days. As a person that has had a part in some of the great songs that have steered us towards God over the last few years, Louie promotes that we "turn down the music, and see if the worship is still there." We can be all about turning the music up and having a "rockin" time of song worship, but does worship sometimes get lost in the music? I admit that I love the instruments, the dynamics, and the creativity, but I have to be careful that I don't let that get in the way of the main reason I'm there...and that's to give honor to my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. You see, music has an enormous affect on one's emotions. Just watch a musical or pay attention to the songs in your favorite movie. Music causes us to feel, so we must be careful that music isn't playing on our emotions in the church. We must also ask if the same level of worship is going on in the lifestyle of the worshipper outside the church walls.
Many of us enjoy worshipping in song with the amps cranked and the bass pumping, but what would happen if we scratched music this week and read some passages that praised God, or had some folks share what the Lord is doing or teaching them, or what about some congregational prayer and reflective time? Would the worship still be there?

$5 haircut

2007-09-15T21:25:00.000-04:00

If you're watching your pennies, not too particular with your hair, and don't mind being an expiriment, then I would suggest visiting your local beauty college for a trim. I first visited the local beauty college two trims ago after becoming disgusted with paying $12-13 for a cut. Unlike John Edwards, the most I've ever paid was $21. I thought that was rediculous, but it was a sweet old lady, and I hated to upset her by refuting her price. "...and I never even saw it comin!" (line from Dumb and Dumber)
Anyway, the last experience was just that...an experience. Now, my hair is very easy to cut, even for a beginner, but apparently I was a challenge to one young, inspiring hair technician. She had to have her instructor explain a certain procedure known as "blending." I tried to contain my smirk, but as they were pointing at my head, I couldn't help but feel like a lab rat. She ended up doing a pretty good job, but I did have to go home and strighten up a few things with my clippers.
True, they only charge $5, but I usually end up feeling sorry for the girl and leaving her a ten. So, by the time I pay $10 and fix what they've missed, I might be better off to pay a pro.

My Dad

2007-09-09T22:24:00.000-04:00

If you're a regular visitor to my blog, you know that I tend to take long periods of time off from blogging. I guess you could chalk it up to laziness or a lack of creativity. Whatever the reason, I just can't be a regular at it. I did post about my mom this past Mother's Day, but I missed Father's Day and blogging about the heavy influence of my father.
I learned, after working in student ministry for 5 years, the importance of quality parents in the life of a child. There are certain things about my dad that have helped mold my life. Specifically, I learned character by watching my father keep his word and try to treat others the way that he would want to be treated. I picked up a hard work ethic by helping and watching my dad make a living with his hands. I learned stewardship because my dad gave me a dollar to put in the offering every Sunday when I was young. I learned the value of trust because my dad gave me room to make mistakes, and he forgave me when I did. I learned how to behave because my father "whooped" me when I needed it, and I'm glad he did! My dad is not perfect by far, nor is anyone else that has walked this earth next to Jesus, but my father's influence has positively affected my life and possibly the life of others.
As I write, my father is lying in a hospital bed suffering the effects of a brain infection. After 3 weeks, we've seen some improvement, but he has a long way to go for a full recovery. Our neurologist has informed us of definite brain damage. Unfortunately, the brain doesn't heal itself, so we're asking the Lord to do what only He can by healing dad's brain.
It's times like these that one is forced to test his knowledge of God and faith in God. I am enough of a realist to know that we live in a fallen world full of disease, pain, hardships, and a number of other things that were not a part of God's original plan. I have enough faith in God's omnipotence to know that He could heal my dad in a nanosecond. However, I understand that my mind is finite, and I can't possibly understand all of God's ways. I still trust Him. It's true that God loves everyone, much more than we can understand, but the first thing on His agenda is His glory, making Himself known. We must understand that we're all susceptible to the consequences of a fallen world, and we're at the disposal of the glory of God. Selfishly, I ask the Lord to let my dad make a full recovery, but I must trust the Lord's plan no matter the outcome. If you stumble across my blog and ascribe to the Almighty, please join me in this petition to the Lord. Thanks

Big Catch. No, it's not one of those talking fish!!!

2007-05-25T18:01:00.003-04:00

On the way home from VA, I stopped at my buddy Ben's place to do some fishin'. His dad is a fishing guide on Norris Lake, just North of Knoxville, TN. I got to reel in my first striper (14lb.) and Ben and I caught a few trout as well. Thanks to the Croley family for letting me stop in, and if you want to get on something like this in the Tennessee area, look em' up at Cove Creek Charters

The Doc

2007-05-16T00:20:00.000-04:00

Today, the earth lost a great man, but heaven gained a saint. The doc (Jerry Falwell) went on to be with the Lord this morning, and the mood here on the campus of Liberty is pretty somber. Somber, only because of the deep connection we all felt to him, whether we knew him personally or not. We all looked to him as a spiritual leader and as an example to follow. We, the students, know that we're here because doc saw the vision of a unique Christian university and followed the Lord by faith to see that come about. There is also another feeling on campus that only comes because of the hope that we have in Christ. When I first heard that he had passed, I opened my Bible to I Thess. 4:13 and read..."But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
I've been here for 3 years now, and my respect for doc has grown with each passing day. Sure, I've heard all his sermons at least twice now, and all of them boiled down to one thing...make the most out of your life and do something great for the cause of Jesus Christ because His kingdom is the only thing that matters in the end. At least that's what I heard, and that's what I'll remember doc saying to me.
I have a few things that I'll keep in my memory of doc. Once, I was in the drive-through at Wendy's, and I noticed doc two cars behind me, by himself. I thought..."I'm going to pay for doc's dinner. How much could it be?" Apparently he was sneaking a few cheeseburgers before he got home to Macel because his bill was like $9! I gladly paid. Another instance I'll remember was meeting his vehicle on campus. Doc was a prankster, but I pulled one on him this time. I swerved at him just before I met him, and when he went by, his fist was in the air with that big grin on his face. When you shook doc's hand, you knew it. He'd wrap that "bear paw" of his around your hand, and you were lucky if you got away without being punched in the stomach!
I graduated with my undergrad degree here in 06', and the only reason I wanted to walk at graduation was to get my picture made with doc. He was in bad health at the time, so he didn't take pictures, but I always carried my digital camera in my truck so that if I caught him on campus, I'd get my picture. Sadly, I never did.
I was checking some posts online today and ran across this one by Larry Flynt. It's easy to get your comrades to like you, but when someone of a totally different worldview respects you, that's says a great deal.
"I hated everything he stood for, but after meeting him in person, years after the trial, Jerry Falwell and I became good friends. ... I always appreciated his sincerity even though I knew what he was selling and he knew what I was selling." - Hustler magazine founder, Larry Flynt.
Many of us miss the doc, but we all carry a little of his passion for Jesus and his drive to see people come to the saving grace of Christ.

My Mom

2007-05-13T00:27:00.000-04:00

Today is the day that we celebrate our moms, and my sister and I have all the reasons to be thankful for the mother with which we have been blessed. She's getting ready to retire next week from teaching high school English classes for nearly 30 years, but she'll never retire from being a great mom. She's the mom that would give you anything, be anywhere, and love you no matter what you did...even though she doesn't know half of what I've done! I'm thankful for my mom.

The God Debate

2007-05-10T01:16:00.000-04:00

Tonight, Nightline hosted and aired a debate between Kirk Cameron/Ray Comfort (evangelical Christians) & The Rational Response Squad (self proclaimed atheists.) The Rational Response Squad has issued a "blasphemy challenge" in the last few months, in which people send in their homemade videos denying the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They've had a huge response.
Tonight, Cameron and Comfort claimed to have 100% proof of God without using faith. True, science has discovered many mysteries that cannot be explained. For instance, advances in science have given the probability of one in 10 to the 40,000th power that the necessary polypeptides would randomly come together in the proper order to form life. (Michael Pitman. Adam and Evolution: A Scientific Critique of Neo-Darwinism, 148) However, Cameron & Comfort's first mistake was to abandon faith in the discussion. It is impossible to accept God without faith. Eph. 2:8 tells us that it is by the grace of God that we are even able to relate to Him, and even that requires faith on our part.
It is sadly true, the message of the cross is foolishness to some...I Cor. 1:18, and God's word says that the eyes of some are blinded and the hearts of some are hardened (John 12:40.) I couldn't help but think of those passages as I listened to the RRS argue their view. Even Kelly, a member of the RRS, said that she would rather go to hell than believe in God. How sad. Apparently she hasn't read a whole lot about eternal separation from God. I don't want her or anyone else to go there.
It's largely our (Christ followers) fault that there are people like the RRS out there. We must authentically live out our faith by loving God, loving our neighbor, and lovingly sharing Christ with an otherwise hopeless world. I was blown away by the amount of comments online. Two hours after the debate, there were over 3,000 comments on the Nightline site! The world is searching. I have to ask myself the question...will the world find any substance when it looks into my life?

How bout' tem Hawgs?

2006-11-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

For those of you not raised in Arkansas, let me translate the title to this post. This is a common phrase used when the Arkansas Razorbacks are doing particularly well at sports. Properly translated, the phrase would read: Can you believe how well the Hogs are doing right now? This phrase is too "sophisticated" for us. It sounds like something that a person from the North would say. Therefore, we shorten and add our accent to produce the title phrase.
I'm looking forward to football season!

Does Kasey Kahne wear make-up?

2006-11-05T19:46:00.000-05:00

He can drive a 500 mile race and step out of the car like he's been at a GQ photo shoot. Maybe it's Maybelline, or maybe I'm just jealous that he's a NASCAR driver and I'M NOT.

Smart Car?

2006-10-12T13:30:00.000-04:00

Out of curiosity, I recently did a little research about the possibility of buying a "Smart Car" as a second vehicle. I would never take this overgrown go-cart out on the interstate, but I could drive it locally. It's about the size of a four-wheeler, so I could take it deer hunting too! They do come with exchangeable body panels, so camouflage will definitely be an option in the Southern states.
SMART is an acrostic for: Superbly Manufactured And Reliable Transportation. One might also assume the name from its’ size and 87 mpg estimated fuel mileage. It originally began production in Europe where the streets are considerably smaller and the estimated fuel costs are $4 more per/gal than in the U.S. Many companies are racing for the American market, but a company named Zap will be one of the first to market the product in America. Details can be found at their web-site: http://www.zapworld.com/cars/smartcar
It seemed like a rational decision at first...then I checked the price. The web-site approximates a $25,000 price tag! I couldn't believe that. The production time and costs have to be considerably less than our currently manufactured cars! So, I determined that this is not such a "smart" purchase for me.

31 down...45 to go

2006-09-30T01:26:00.000-04:00

Today marks the 31st anniversary of my life and the one year anniversary of this blog. I didn't think I'd make it this long (with the blog, I mean.) However, I have been wondering how much longer I'll be in this flesh, and that prompted me to do a little research.
A recent study by Dr. Christopher Murray of the Harvard School of Public Health determined the states and counties with the longest and shortest lifespans. On the average, the Hawaiians are living the longest, but specifically, residents in Clear Creek County, CO are living to be 81.3 yrs old. However, the folks around Washabaugh County, SD are only living 66.6 years (Someone needs to check their radiation levels!)
Anyway, I took the three states in which I've lived...calculated an extensive formula (too complicated to reproduce) and discovered that I'll live to be 76.5 (give or take a few months.) So, if the Lord wills, as of today I have approximately 45.5 years left. So, the end for me will roughly be March of 2051...which is a bummer because I'd like to see Halley's Comet again in the summer of 2061. Oh well, there are much cooler things to see in heaven. Happy Birthday to me.

Buggabego

2006-09-21T22:22:00.000-04:00

I can imagine the thoughts that went through some guys' mind as he looked out the window of his mobile home, saw an old VW Bug and an old camper in the weeds and said...I wonder if I could...yeah!

Only in Arkansas

Another One Bites the Dust

2006-09-20T21:45:00.000-04:00

Back in my high school years, my friends and I spent every moment we could on Norfork Lake in Mt. Home, Arkansas. One weekend a year was reserved for "the guys." The girlfriends stayed home, and we enjoyed a calm weekend with no worries of a massive feud breaking out. I remember vividly the conversation that went on during this particular weekend in the Summer of 93'. We were making bets about which of us would be the first to get married...as well as who'd be the last. Since then, 7 of the 10 have made the commitment, and they have some beautiful families.
Until last weekend, 3 remained, but on Friday night, another one bit the dust! Although there is money at stake, no one except the last ones standing seem to remember that part of the conversation...but it's not about the money.
I'm happy for him. He's getting a great girl, and she's getting a great guy.
...and then there were two.

Birthday Wishes

2006-09-14T15:14:00.000-04:00

I have a B-day coming up at the end of this month, and I never really ask for much. However, I know that thousands of people view my blog on a daily basis, and with those numbers, there is a chance that a generous billionaire might stumble across. So, I've put together a little list...in no certain order of importance.

1. A vintage Fender Telecaster guitar.
2. guitar lessons with John Mayer or Brad Paisley
3. pair of Merrell hiking shoes
4. An Aston Martin (like James Bond drives)
5. case for my laptop
6. The old style H1 Hummer (preferably black)
7. Some gas money for my new H1 Hummer
8. a new competition ski boat ( a black Ski Nautique to match the Hummer is fine)
9. lifetime season tickets to St. Louis Cardinals' games (first base line, please)
10. unlimited downloads from itunes
11. pair of leather Steve Madden shoes
12. A Harley Davidson
13. Capture Osama Bin Laden
14. Free "The Dog"

Comments from billionaires or millionaires only, please

Mac World

2006-09-08T00:03:00.000-04:00

This trip to NYC, I visited the new Mac store on 5th Ave. What you see is the entrance, but a clear, round, hydraulic elevator is the portal to a whole new world. It's like a scene from one of those futuristic movies. I was enamored! To be fully appreciative, one must be a Mac owner, but I guess it's possible for a PC user to have a mild experience. Chalk one more up for the Mac folks.

"Who do you say that I am?"

2006-08-31T11:23:00.000-04:00

While on a recent trip to New York, I acquired a poor copy of the movie "Talladega Nights." As a loyal NASCAR fan, I've already seen the movie, but a disturbing thought came to my mind as I watched the prayer scene again. If you didn't see the movie, Ricky Bobby is leading his family in a prayer before their meal, and he begins with: "Dear Baby Jesus..." After several references to the infant Jesus, a dialog begins among the characters as to how they picture Jesus. Walker, Ricky's son, states that he thinks of Jesus as a ninja fighting off evil samurai. Cal, Ricky's teammate and best friend, pictures Jesus singing lead vocals for Lynyrd Skynyrd accompanied by an angel band.
Now, I know that Hollywood tends to exaggerate for comedic effect, but this isn't too far from some of the skewed views of Jesus. The One we, as Christ followers, refer to as Creator, Savior, Sustainer... The One in whom "we live and move and have our being" as Paul quotes a poet when addressing the Aeropagus in Acts 17:28.
In Matthew 16:15, Jesus asks Peter this question: "Who do you say that I am?" This question wasn't just posed to Peter that day; the question is for us all, and I beg to say that this is the most important answer we'll give in our lifetime. Who do you say that He is?

The S.A. goes to NYC

2006-08-28T20:28:00.001-04:00

...from the dirt roads of Arkansas to the subways of NYC. This particular trip was a little over a year ago but memorable enough to blog about. A friend of mine works at the Journey Church (nyjourney.com) in Manhattan, and we made a trip up to visit him. It was my first trip to the Big Apple, so I was eager to see the sites...but here are a few non-typical NYC pics.

Me taking the bull by the horns (it's a metaphor, but it really happened...seriously)

Me and the Orange County Lincoln Truck Chopper

Brooklyn Tabernacle...very cool

My friend, Tex, trying to make us some lunch money in the subway

The hippy's bike in Central Park...what in the world?!

It was a nice place to visit, but the S.A. is still right at home in the South...where the tea is sweet and the people say "yall." The only reason I might want to go back is to see if I can catch the Cash Cab.

Elvis and Me

2006-08-16T23:14:00.000-04:00

On this date in 1977, the world lost an icon, and I lost a friend. Most people don't know it, but Elvis and I were close. In his early years (before the drugs) we did everything together, and he always insisted on wearing that gold suit. Here is a photo tribute to "the King" and my friend, Elvis Presley.

Elvis loved hanging with me & my school friends

One of our favorite things was just making music downstairs in the studio. We co-wrote many of his hits down there, but I wasn't interested in the credit...just the friendship.

I miss you, buddy.

Pet Peeve

2006-08-14T22:20:00.000-04:00

There aren't many things that get under my skin, but during my recent cross country drive from Arkansas to Virginia, I became aware of my greatest pet peeve. Really, what is so hard to understand about driving on a multiple lane highway? I realize that it may have been many years since we took our driving exams, so I decided to compile a few rules of Interstate highway etiquette.
1. The right lane is the slow lane, and the left is the fast lane.
2. When overtaking a vehicle, use the left lane. Then, as safe and quickly as possible, return to the right lane.
3. If you, like me, are an above average speed driver and spend most of your time in the fast lane, then keep an eye in your mirror for fast approaching vehicles. When this occurs, move safely and quickly into the right lane until you're overtaken.
4. Under no circumstances are you to drive alongside another vehicle AT THE SAME SPEED!
Adhering to these simple rules will make life much more pleasant for us all.

Stupid Things I've Done:

2006-08-12T00:03:00.000-04:00

It’s important to stay grounded, so here are a few "G-Rated" reminders to keep me humble:
1. I stuck my finger in the car's cigarette lighter after it stopped glowing to see if it was still hot…it was.
2. I put a screwdriver in a power outlet...I was 5.
3. I ice skated on a not-so-frozen pond.
4. I mistook vinegar for 7up...it doesn't taste the same
5. I was suspended in the 6th grade for hitting a girl…long story.
6. I started a brush fire with gasoline…once.
7. I broke a girl’s collarbone in a boating accident.
8. I backed up with my truck door open, caught it on a fencepost, and bent it around…just like Tommy Boy.
9. I shot a guy in the face while quail hunting…just like Dick Cheney
10. I rented the movie “White Chicks.”
11. I started a blog.

Isn't it Ironic?

2006-08-10T22:12:00.000-04:00

A few years ago, Alanis Morissette sang a song titled "Ironic." Some of the lyrics were as follows:

An old man turned ninety-eight
He won the lottery and died the next day
It's a black fly in your chardonnay
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late
Isn't it ironic... don't you think

Yesterday, the fire station in my home town burned. Isn't it ironic?

Hope

2006-07-31T23:49:00.000-04:00

I attended the funeral of a high school classmate today. The word that kept recycling through my mind was...hope. I just kept thinking that everything besides the person of Jesus Christ and what we do for Him is so futile. We put so much time and effort into an occupation, school, retirement funds, and "stuff" we think we need. Now, there's nothing wrong with those things at all, but where or in whom does our hope lie? I'm not proposing that we "hole up" in some compound until Jesus returns and forget all daily actions, but I'm challenging myself to leverage the majority of my time and efforts towards the eternal.
"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:18

...dust to dust.

2006-07-26T00:32:00.000-04:00

"...for you are dust, and to dust you shall return." Genesis 3

This may seem a little strange, but my dad is a grave digger. I have pretty much grown up around cemeteries...playing as a little boy while my dad worked and later digging them myself. I've seen some crazy stuff, but that's beside the point. As with anything else, being continuously around something tends to make one numb to the idea. Sadly, it sometimes becomes just another hole to dig, just another family, just another job.
When I began to better understand the purpose of life, I began to stand over these caskets and ask..."Who did this person say that Jesus was...and what did he/she do with the days they were given?" As one of my favorite teachers, Louie Giglio, would ask: Did they play the starring role in the small story of themselves, or did they play a supporting role in the grand story of God?
Being around this has helped me to better understand the fragilty and brevity of life. How true it is when the Psalmist writes in 39 that our life is "but a breath."
I'm currently 30 years old. The average age of natural death is around 73. Assuming that I make it there and the Lord tarries, I have 43 years left. 43 years to make a difference.
I continuously fail at making the most of the days that I'm given..."making the most of every opportunity" as Paul writes to the Ephesians. I'm thankful that I serve a patient and merciful God as I stumble through my supporting role in His grand story.

Cabo Trip

2006-07-19T18:24:00.000-04:00

Cabo San Lucas was incredible! I was there with about 150 high school students and pastors from around the states. We worked on different projects in the community during the day, and then our teaching sessions were focused around leadership for the students. I had the privilege of leading the music aspect, but I did a little work too.
Our particular project was to paint the interior of this church. Here is a pic of our group at work.

We also spent some time at a daycare helping them with some tasks and playing with kids...

We stayed at a really nice resort on the beach...just a few houses down from Sammy Hagar's place! There was a hurricane that was a few hundred miles offshore, and it was sending in some major waves & undertow, so we couldn't swim. Here are a few shots of the pad...

We took a little sight seeing boat around the tip of the Baja Peninsula. This is the widely recognized Cabo arch.

A look down the beach...

It's absolutely beautiful there.
"...those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe at Your signs."
Psalm 65:8

I thought this was funny...

2006-07-06T18:54:00.000-04:00

...taken just up the road from the Norfork Lake Dam (Mt. Home, Arkansas)

Nearsighted

2006-07-05T00:59:00.000-04:00

I'm nearsighted. I can read a monogrammed safety pin, but I can't see a thing far away. My prescription is -2.50 in both eyes (for those of you that understand the numbers.) I've been wearing contacts ever since I was 16, and I remember the day that I picked up my glasses & realized what I'd been missing. Everything was so defined...not blurry. I could see far away. Colors were distinct. It was amazing! Now, it is so noticeable that every morning, one of the first things I do is reach for my glasses. I don't have to remind myself that I'm optically challenged. It's almost like a disease that I'll live with forever...or until I can afford Lasik surgery.
Nearsightedness can be a disease for us as Christ followers as well...when we become so focused on the near things of this world and lose sight of the eternal. I believe that one of the enemy's greatest methods of distraction comes in this form...unnecessary stress, material possessions, etc. Unlike my physical challenge, I often have to remind myself when I'm being spiritually nearsighted. I Peter tells us to "live as strangers in this world." My translation...keep in mind that this is a temporary residence. I don't think that there is a Lasik procedure to correct this. I reckon that I'll have to keep reminding myself.

Freedom

2006-07-02T22:08:00.000-04:00

As Americans, we've heard it said many times that "Freedom isn't free." I was reminded of that phrase during my recent trip to Florida as I shared a flight with a soldier headed back to Iraq. As we were boarding the flight, his wife and two young girls were saying what might be a last good-bye. My heart sank as the cries of his youngest daughter reminded me of the sacrifices made so that we could live in freedom. I have come to a greater appreciation of this nation after visiting several other countries and seeing the oppression endured by some. Thanks to our troops (past & present) that pay a great price to ensure our freedom.

There was another price that had to be paid for a different kind of freedom. Likewise, this freedom is not truly appreciated unless one comes to the understanding of our condition as humans. In short form, the fall of man left us all captive & in need of a reconciliation with our Creator. Only the sacrifice made by Christ on the cross gives us the opportunity for true freedom. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ! In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...(I Peter 1:3)

If I wasn't from Arkansas...

2006-07-01T01:42:00.000-04:00

...I'd love to be from Texas! I recently drove 16 hours alone (don't ask why) from NE Arkansas to the Southernmost tip of Texas. I noticed that there is a distinct pride that comes with the territory. You're not just from Texas...you're from TEXAS! The Lone Star flag flies everywhere...and big ones too. Lone Star bumper stickers cover four-wheel drives with those Texas Truck license plates. There are some fine people down there as well. Now don't take me wrong, I'm a proud Arkansan...a Razorback fan from the womb, and I realize that this maybe heresy...but I do like the Longhorns. I like Austin, the colors, and, of course, the hook em' horns. Yeah, I could be from Texas.

Florida Trip

2006-06-28T11:09:00.000-04:00

One of my best friends is a student pastor at Flamingo Road Church in Ft. Lauderdale, and I had the opportunity to help with the music for their summer camp near Gainesville last week. I was playing with a band called Crimson Vera (crimsonvera.com) from South Florida.

They are an amazing group of guys, and the Lord really did some cool things all week…especially during the music and teaching times. We had around 350 Middle and High School students and leaders. The Video Team produced some crazy funny stuff. Hopefully, we can link those up shortly. The tech & décor team transformed this room into a very cool atmosphere.

But the coolest thing was that there were several students that came to know Christ and many others that grew closer to Him.
We came back to Ft. Lauderdale, and I played with the weekend band.

I had a blast all week! I miss doing ministry with all of you guys.

The Curse of The Melancholy

2005-10-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

It’s been raining here in Lynchburg for about 3 days now, which is tough on us melancholies. If you don’t know much about us (melancholies,) let me inform you. To sum it up, we’re most likely the introverted, task-driven, perfectionist, artist/musician creative-type. We’re the more emotional of the personalities. I don’t know what connection the rain has to do with that, but it’s hard to be motivated to do anything on those days.
But there is a positive side to the fall season here in Lynchburg. It brings some radiant colors to the trees here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They seriously look as if they’re on fire. It’s beautiful! (which really jacks us melancholies up!) …and even more so if we have an understanding of the Creator God.
The challenge for the Christ-following melancholy is to overcome those days when we don’t necessarily “feel” like modeling Christ to others. As one of my Profs says: “What we know and believe is more important than what we feel.” Think about it; what distinguishes us from the world when we respond only out of our feelings? Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:1 to be “imitators” of God. He doesn’t say only when we feel like it...but always.
So, is it necessarily a curse or just a way that Christ uses to shape us to be more like Him for our time on this earth?

Pep-Talk

2005-10-06T00:05:00.000-04:00

When I was playing High School football, my coach gave some incredibly motivating pre-game speeches. One in particular I remember was before facing the number one team in our conference, the Osceola Seminoles. He explained that they had us beat in every physical aspect of the game except one. They were bigger, faster, and stronger. However, he explained, their hearts were no match for ours. Because we were the underdogs that week, we had endured grueling practices, played with pain and injuries, and studied game film like it was a science test.
He went on to explain the story of the tortoise and the hare. As we all know, the hare came to the race very overconfident and overlooked his competitor, but the tortoise just kept his mind on the finish line and won the race.
Jesus gave a very cool pre-game speech to His disciples in Matthew 10. He had hand picked them, mentored them, and now He was sending them to carry out His Father’s business on earth. He lets them know that it’s going to be tough. He doesn’t sugar-coat anything. He tells them in verse 16 that He’s sending them out “as sheep among wolves.” In verse 19, He says: “When you’re arrested…” By now, these guys are probably thinking: “Hey, I didn’t sign up for this!” They might not have known what they were in for, but something tells me that they did know that they were playing for something bigger than themselves. They were the guys that would lead the way in spreading the life-changing news of Jesus Christ to the world!
I remember the mixed feelings of fear and excitement as I, the quarterback, stepped on the field that night and led the army to battle. Fear, because I knew that they held the physical advantage, but there was excitement because I knew that we were playing for something bigger than ourselves. I wish I could give you a heart-pumping story about how we overcame adversity and “defeated the giant,” but we lost the game 49-6. Trying to make light of the situation, coach said that he forgot to tell us that when a turtle gets on his back, he’s in trouble!
Jesus not only gave that speech to those few men that day, but it was included in the Word of God for us. Sure, many of us won’t have to endure the hardships like the disciples did, but we each have our own sufferings for the cause of Christ. Our advantage is that we know that Jesus’ team wins in the end. Are you on His team?

The Art of Dunking Oreos

2005-10-04T01:17:00.000-04:00

A few years ago when I still lived in Arkansas, 4 other guys and myself would get together every Tuesday night. The first 30 minutes was spent in some fierce games of basketball. Then, for the next hour or so, we discussed our personal victories and struggles in the Christian life. All the while sitting around a huge pile of Oreos and a personal glass of milk. It was here that we perfected the art of Dunking Oreos. And now, you will reap the benefits.

To start, I prefer the original Oreo.
(This formula isn’t configured for double-stuffed Oreos.)

1. Fill the glass enough that the rest of your hand doesn’t come in contact with the rim as your dunking the Oreo.
2. Take an Oreo and hold it on the flat side between your thumb and index finger. (not too tight)
3. Submerge the Oreo in the glass until your fingers almost touch the surface of the milk.
4. Here’s where it gets critical. I like it very mushy, so I hold for 10 seconds. (1 Mississippi…2 Mississippi…)
(Less if you want a little more solid substance.)
At about 8 seconds, the milk will begin breaking down the Oreo structure. (You’ll feel this between your fingers) This is why it is so important not to hold too tight. At 10 seconds, pull it! Any longer than this and your running a great chance of loosing the Oreo in the bottom of the glass.
5. Eat the whole thing. This is not the time to take small bites.

*I find that after about 3 Oreos, I like to take a big drink of milk to wash them down.

From time to time, I’ll have a few before I go to bed, but I never sit down with Oreos & milk without thinking about my boys in Arkansas. Good Times! S.M.T.
I’ll be see’n ya.

Abortion Doctor/Soul Winner?

2005-10-02T22:41:00.000-04:00

Here's a recent paper I turned in for my theology class. I thought you might enjoy rolling the idea around yourself.

If one holds to the belief that babies are exempt from hell, does that make an abortion doctor the most effective evangelist? I think that we have to go back to the beginning and the purpose of man for an explanation.
Genesis tells us that God put man on earth with specific instructions, and from what transpired afterwards, we know that man had the ability to choose. God was doing fine before us, but He decided to create a human race with the ability to make a conscious decision to choose to love and obey Him. God is not a puppet master that controls our every move. When He put the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the garden along with the instructions not to eat of it, He cut the strings. He made us with the ability to make decisions based on our belief in Him, but He makes it clear in His word that He wants all to choose Him.
“(God) who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth,” 1 Tim. 2:3 (ESV)
A child obviously doesn’t have the ability or opportunity to make that choice. However, I do believe that those whose life is taken before the comprehension of Christ’s saving grace are safe from the separation from Him. However, they weren’t given the opportunity to make the ultimate decision for which they were created or the many choices that daily would follow to obey God’s way.
In the cases of abortion, the doctor is taking that decision from them, which begs the question: Is he actually keeping those individuals that wouldn’t eventually choose Jesus Christ out of hell? Or, being the all-knowing God that He is, would God allow someone into heaven as a child that he knew would not have chosen Him had they been given the chance? How about those who would have chosen God, but their life was unfortunately cut short; Will their experience in heaven be different from those of us who have lived and made decisions to follow Christ? I don’t think any of us have an answer for some of these questions, but I do know that we were created to choose Him and make daily decisions that honor Him and make His name known to those who might one day follow the same path.

Hence the Name

2005-10-01T17:10:00.001-04:00

So, I'm guessing that you're curious about the title of my blog site. One might think that the statement would qualify as an oxy-moron. That there is no intelligent life in Arkansas. Well, I beg to differ. The fact that the first season of "Simple Life" was filmed in Altus, Arkansas, where the producers at FOX portrayed Arkansans as barefoot, cousin' kissers whose idea of fun was hanging out at Wal-Mart didn't help put an end to this false belief. I meet people all the time who say: "Arkansas, now where is that exactly?" I'm no Magellan, but I do know the location of the states in my own country! Please, have a little respect. The name was also spurred on by a t-shirt that a friend gave me. It depicts an outline of the state of Arkansas and reads: "Arkansas: Literacy Ain't Everything!" Yeah, I wear it proudly. Does that make me a hypocrite? Not at all. I can laugh at the stereotype as well.
The truth is that my mother is an English teacher in Arkansas. You might say...What a lost cause...but my mother is a very intelligent lady for whom I have the utmost love and respect. In fact, I have so much respect for her that I've always been very conscious of my grammar because I wanted to represent her well. (Please e-mail me with any grammatical mistakes in this blog.)
Seriously, it's an incredible state. It's beautiful, full of nature, home of North America's oldest and most famous diamond mine in Murfreesboro, where the largest diamond found was 40.24 carats. Arkansas is America's largest rice producer and the home of Sam Walton who founded Wal-Mart. John Grisham (author) is a native as well as Mark Martin (Nascar driver.) It's the home of country music legends: Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, & Conway Twitty as well as Lou Brock (pro baseball player) just mention a few. I've traveled to just about every North American state, seven other countries on three continents, and some of the most friendly, genuine people are right there in Arkansas.
I'm just a lone voice advocating the end to this false idea, but I ask that next time you encounter this stereotype to stop and think about the possibility of...the Sophisticated Arkansan. I'll be see'n ya.