Beeg's Musings

Trust and Boundaries

2012-02-13T09:43:00.000-07:00

We had an interesting weekend. Our oldest, Levi (who is high functioning autistic), has been playing a video game at a friends house and really wanted it. The game is rated 'M' and that gave us pause. We really don't want games with that rating in the house.

Trust:
We discussed our concerns with Levi. He was explaining that the game wasn't that bad. So we went online and read reviews and opinions. A lot of the opinions expressed that the game should be rated 'T' instead of 'M'. We talked with the father of the friend to get his take. Finally, we decided to check the game out ourselves and see what it was about. Game Stop is good for this. They have a 7 day return policy on Previously Owned games so it gave us a chance to look at the game and try it out. So we picked the game up and had Levi show us what it was all about.

Boundaries:
After watching the game we decided that it was inappropriate for our house. This is something that is personal to us. It is something we are not comfortable with. Now we had to explain to Levi the reasons why we felt the game was inappropriate. It took several "sessions" along with a promise to work with Levi to find appropriate games that can be a part of our house. This morning it finally clicked (or at least seemed to) with Levi. We did some searching and have found a game that could be as fun and that can be played in our home. We will be taking back the 'M' game and getting the other game.

Results:
The results are pending. I have a good feeling that the new game will keep Levi happy. I also think that Levi has learned that we will work with him to ensure that video games we get are "fun" but also appropriate for our household. It will always be a work in progress, but I have great hopes that this weekend is a spring board for other conversations that will be had as we get older. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Roll Tide. . . Whatever!

2012-01-10T08:53:00.002-07:00

Alabama won last night's "BCS National Championship" game 21 - 0 over #1 ranked LSU. Shall we look at why Alabama was in the National Championship game?

Alabama won their division in the SEC. . . NO
Alabama won the SEC Conference Championship. . . NO
Alabama played a schedule where they beat other conference champions. . . NO
Alabama played a team that could have played for the championship except Alabama beat them. . .NO

Only in College football can this happen. Who did Alabama beat to earn the right to play for the national championship? Let's take a look at their schedule:

Kent State - Home Win 41 - 7
#23 Penn State - Road Win 27 - 11
North Texas - Home Win 41 - 0
#14 Arkansas - Home Win 38 - 14
#12 Florida - Road Win 38 - 10
Vanderbilt - Home Win 34 - 0
Ole Miss - Road Win 52 - 7
Tennessee - Home Win 37 - 6
LSU - Home Loss 9 - 6 OT
Mississippi State - Road Win 24 - 7
Georgia Southern - Home Win 45 - 21
#24 Auburn Road Win 42 - 14

So let's break it down:

Played 1 team in the FCS which are not eligible to count towards a bowl game
Winning percentage of the teams played - 60.1% (.601)
5 of the teams played had losing records
Played 4 ranked teams, only one of which was ranked in the top 10 (1 - 1 record against that team - LSU)

So tell me again why they were ranked #2? Oh yeah, a bunch of coaches were polled and some geeks (which I am one of) rated them based on some mythical formulas.

Don't get me wrong. Alabama played a dominant game. They had 43 days to prepare for it after all. But still, one wonders if the opinions of coaches and the points accumulated via various formulas didn't somehow favor them. What would have happened had they been forced to play their way in? Would they have made it? Possibly.

So today Roll Tide, you won a game that you were placed in instead of playing against the best teams who won their conferences. You are the BCS National Champions. Yeah, WHATEVER!

Rushing to Christmas

2011-12-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

It's the holiday season! And it feels to me like we are all in the following state of mind:

Sally: I've been looking for you big brother. Will you please write a letter to Santa Claus for me?

Charlie Brown: Well I don't have much time. I'm supposed to get down to the school auditorium and direct the Christmas Play.

Sally: You write it and I'll tell you what I want to say.

Charlie Brown: Ok, shoot.

Sally: Dear Santa Claus, How have you been? Did you have a nice summer? How is your wife? I have been extra good this year. So I have a long list of presents I want.

Charlie Brown: Oh Brother!

Sally: Please note the size and color of each item and send as many as possible. If it seems too complicated make it easy on yourself. Just send money. How about Tens and Twenties?

Charlie Brown: Tens and Twenties?! OHHHH!!! Even my baby sister!

Sally: All I want is what I have coming to me, all I want is my fair share.

Here is the link: Sally's Christmas Letter

Does it seem like we are rushing to get presents? Are we trying to get our "Fair Share"?

Christmas is a time for giving it is true. But we should remember the true meaning of Christmas and maybe we would be wise to follow the example of shepherds over 2000 years ago (Luke 2:8-7, emphasis added):

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

The shepherds made haste to view the savior that was promised. They didn't rush to the local market to get gifts for everyone and their dog. They did rush to the site of the most wonderful event to occur up to that time. The birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I think we would do well to follow the example of the shepherds. That this Christmas we should rush to Him instead of rushing to the store. That we might follow the signs given to us today as the shepherds followed the signs the angel gave to them. That we might find him. Because as we sing:

Hark the Herald Angels sing,
Glory to the newborn King.
Peace on Earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled.

It was through Him that reconcilement has been made, and it is through Him that we might receive mercy mild.

Time Flies and Can Be Too Short

2011-12-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Levi's eleventh birthday. Seems like only yesterday that we were bringing him home. I can't really say where the time has gone. I do know this; recent events have made me realize that life's too short to miss time spent. Let me explain.

Not too long ago a friend of ours passed away from Brain Cancer. A few weeks ago we found out about another friend who went in for pancreatic cancer surgery and came out with a short life prognosis. A cousin of ours was also recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer stage 4. BAM! 3 instances of cancer. All 3 at different stages in their lives. All three too young.

It got me thinking about what I would miss if something like this happened to me. No parent should ever miss the graduations, weddings, grandchildren, and other torch passes that happen in life. As a parent, it made me realize that I need to enjoy the moments. Find joy in life now as nothing is guaranteed. Try to connect more and disconnect less. Take the time to show love, not just say it.

So I'm trying to be more aware of the moments. To love a little more. To laugh a lot more. To keep the frustration down (not easy that one). To be positive. In essence to be a better Husband, Father, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Friend.

And so I reflect on the last eleven years of my life. When our family grew from two to three. Reflect on all the good times. To know that as we are now seven, there are more chances to enjoy life. Maybe, just maybe I can make the memories that will last for more than my lifetime.

To Relegate Or Not To Relegate

2011-10-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

A story has come out where the owners of certain English Premier League football (soccer) teams want to banish the relegation system. Of course these owners are from foreign lands and so relegation would negatively affect their pocketbooks. But maybe I'm getting ahead of myself.

Each season the English Premier League plays it's matches and there is one table for standings. The top teams get to play in the European cup leagues. The bottom three are relegated. What is relegation? Let's use Major League Baseball as an example.

Today let's say the three teams with the worst record in Baseball were relegated. What would happen is that next year they would play in AAA baseball. The top three AAA teams would be promoted to Major League Baseball and play at those levels. Players would migrate from the relegated teams to other Major League teams.

This is what happens in the English Premier League. The bottom three teams get relegated to the First Division. The top First Division teams get promoted and play with the big boys the next season.

I love this system. Why? Because it makes those end of season games meaningful to the teams facing relegation. Could you imagine how hard a 4 - 11 team would play in its last game in the NFL if it knew that next year it might not be in the NFL? What about the end of the baseball season and all those games that don't have an affect on the playoffs? Could you imagine if the Royals and the Pirates were playing for their MLB lives in games 155 - 162? And what about the fans? Would the fans not come out to support the team to ensure that next year they had a Major League team?

This is what English football is all about. Passion and drive. Relegation makes it so that teams play hard throughout the season. They literally play for their Premiership lives. You get two races in effect. The race for league champion and the race to not be relegated. Imagine the lead in Sports Center if there was relegation in the major sports of America.

The foreign owners of the EPL teams need to understand that this is part of football and if they don't like relegation then they need to take the steps to put a quality product on the field. This in turn will bring fans as the team fights to move to the top and distance itself from the relegation zone.

Personally I would love to see relegation in the American Sports system, however that is unlikely. But think about the owners of teams who don't spend money on their product and what relegation would force them to do. I can see the squirming and I like it.

We Be Loyal Scouts

2011-09-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

If you saw any of my status updates earlier in the week you saw that our oldest son, Levi, earned his Cub Scout Webelos badge. This is an amazing achievement given the fact that only a few short months ago Levi did not like Cub Scouts.

Raising a special needs child (Levi is High-functioning Autistic) is a challenge. It's not only a challenge for us as parents, but it is a challenge for Levi himself. At some things he has to work harder than others and Scouts is definitely something he has worked hard at. A couple of pictures of Levi at Pack Meeting this week (he's the taller one).

This is a time to be proud as a parent. It's also a time to thank the leaders and others in Cub Scouts who have helped Levi along the way. I know they worked as hard as Levi did in order for him to qualify for this award. Hopefully getting this award will propel Levi to continue in Scouting where he will learn a lot of life skills and continue his achievements.

Ghost Story - My Review

2011-08-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

ALERT: SPOILERS AHEAD. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED

To Air, for introducing me to Mab by onion-colored light

I should have known. The signs were all there. Even the dedication was a clue as to what was to happen. But I get ahead of myself. . .

Ghost Story is the latest book in the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. In this novel Harry Dresden is dead and is sent back to find his killer. Of course for Harry this means getting mixed up in a whole bunch of ancillary adventures that eventually lead him to his purpose.

The soul of Harry is given a choice to either move on or find his killer. This is done by non-other than the father of his love interest Karrin Murphy. Really though Harry doesn't have a choice (a recurring theme throughout the novel). Jack Murphy tells Harry that if he doesn't figure it out three of his friends are going to get hurt, maybe killed. That's enough for Harry and he signs the paper that effectively puts his soul in eternal jeopardy (of course Harry doesn't know that when he signs).

Harry is sent back to Chicago and we see that his version of Mystery Inc. has an unsteady alliance. Murphy is bitter and on a razors edge. Molly has appeared to go completely insane. Butters now "owns" the spiritual entity known as Bob and Thomas is nowhere to be found. Sounds like a typical day in Chicago.

The story pits Harry up against the Corpsetaker once again. The crazy lady, even as a ghost, has a plan to get back into mortality and then wreak havoc on everything. Harry decides he has to stop her and moves with the plan.

During this time there is a lot of back story that gets filled in. Harry's memories are perfect because there is nothing in his brain that can prevent the memory because, well he doesn't have a brain at the moment. We go back in time to when Harry first met "He Who Walks Behind". A demon that has it in for Harry, or so we are led to think. This gives us the impression that this may be it for the novels. Butcher does a great job of tying up loose ends (most of them anyways) and I thought for sure as I read that this would be it (but the dedication still left me wondering).

Eventually we get to the climactic battle between the forces of good and evil (or in this case the Hall of Justice and the Legion of Doom as Harry might have put it). This pits the Corpsetaker against Molly in a battle of mind and will. Harry goes along for the ride and enters into Molly's Star Trek Bridge (the original Enterprise Bridge). It's here that we find out who had Harry killed.

In order to understand this part one has to go back to "Changes" and understand that Harry made a deal with the Devil; OK, with the Queen of Air and Darkness, Mab. Harry agreed to be the Winter Knight and serve Mab. There is usually only one way out of that arrangement and that is death. Harry sets it up so that Molly alters his brain so he has no memory of setting up his own death. But while on Molly's "Bridge" he is inadvertently told that Molly killed him. Molly blames herself. Harry then brings up the memory of those fateful events and realizes that he plotted with Molly to make sure he would not know that death was coming. He placed a phone call to Kincaid (protector of the girl Ivy and the Archive) to take him out after he finished the work of saving his daughter in "Changes".

At this point cue in Uriel. The Archangel is actually the one that has seen to it that Harry is sent back. It seems that there is a rule that no supernatural being can influence the choice of a mortal by lying. In Harry's case it happened just before he made the decision to become the Winter Knight and set up his murder. Uriel shows him this and explains the situation to him. Of course choices have influenced the events of the novel and even now the choices made by Harry have led to Molly being rescued and the Corpsetaker being taken out by a lot of Wraiths.

Uriel wasn't finished though. He shows Harry how all the people he cares about are going to be OK. He gives Harry a choice. He can work for Uriel or he can move on. Uriel makes it very tempting to work for him. However, he tells Harry something that should have clicked in Harry's head before he makes his choice:

You are a soul. You have a body.

Harry chooses to move on and wakes up in pain. Real mortal pain. You see when he was shot he fell into the cold, dark waters of Lake Michigan. Cold and Dark are the realm of Mab and of course she couldn't let her newly volunteered knight die. She has been keeping his body alive with the help of Demonreach. Demonreach is the spirit of an island that Harry bonded with in a previous novel. Harry is Demonreach's guardian so Demonreach also has a stake in the game. Once back Harry is informed that Mab is not happy with the deception and that Harry will pay for it. However, there is a very important point made here that Harry learned while in the spirit world. His soul is his own! No one can take it from him without his permission. No one can change it but him. Yes he will serve as Mab's knight but he will do it his way and we all know that Harry will do it that way.

Butcher is a fantastic writer. He uses pop culture for relief during tense moments. Quotes from comic books, to movies such as Star Wars and The Princess Bride make Harry realistic and believable. It also makes for an entertaining novel that deals with dark topics.

I also have to say that this novel was somewhat different than the other Dresden novels. It provides the reader with valuable information about Harry's past. It describes a world we have yet to really understand (that of ghosts and spirits). It has humor, yet tension. All in all I would give this novel 5 stars. And of course I'm really looking forward to the next adventure of Chicago's only Professional Wizard (if he still works like that).

USA 1 - Mexico 1

2011-08-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I'm liking Jurgen Klinsman. Why? Because we seem to be on the same page. Let me explain. I watched last night's match. It was Jurgen's debut as the manager and I wanted to see what his thoughts would be on formation and general style of play.

A 4-5-1 formation was new to this team and I thought it had possibilities to control the midfield and get some good scoring chances. However, the team didn't seem to take to it right away. Instead of moving the ball forward when the opportunity presented itself, the US played the ball backwards. I pretty much was screaming at the TV (yes my wife knows and yes I understand they can't hear me) to move forward or play to the open man going forward. The result of the first half had the US down 1-0 with no shots. Now in soccer any shot that comes close to goal is counted. There are actually two stats, shots and shots on goal. The US had ZERO shots at all in the first half.

This is where I started to like Klinsman. He was interviewed at half-time and asked what they needed to do. The biggest thing he mentioned was to move the ball forward! Just like I had been screaming at the screen for them to do. He must have gotten his point across because the US did much better in the 2nd half with moving the ball forward.

The other part I like is that Klinsman is not using the same old players. Now granted this was a friendly and a time to look at new players. However, Klinsman brought in some players that under Bob Bradley probably wouldn't have even gotten a look. The players that Klinsman brought on definitely had a positive impact, especially Breck Shea. It paid off also as the US got the equalizer to the game through the efforts of the substitutes.

Klinsman has also stated that he wants to look more at the "latin" players in the US. This will be a positive as these players bring a style that will fit well with what American fans want to see. It also puts on notice that the same old same old types and routes to the national team may not cut it anymore.

One thing that Klinsman mentioned that I hope he will expand was the growth of the game in the lower economic regions of the country. In every other Soccer nation talent is found wherever it is located. The US must do the same. However, the US has a large rural population and there is talent there as well. I hope that Jurgen and US soccer will not only look to the inner city as it were, but also to the farmlands and rural communities. Why do I say that? Because I grew up in one and we had some talented players who with the right coaching and effort could have brought that talent to at least the collegiate level.

The game last night and Klinsman's comments give me hope that the National team can improve. World Cup qualifying starts next year. It's not about qualifying (that should be a given at this point) but rather about building a team that consistently goes deep into the tournament. The US may have found the right man to build that legacy.

Independence Day

2011-07-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

On July 4th we celebrate Independence Day. The day that the United States of America declared independence from Great Britain. As I think about Independence I think about freedom and what that means for the individual.

Dictionary.com defines independent as:

–adjective

not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, etc.; thinking or acting for oneself: an independent thinker.
not subject to another's authority or jurisdiction; autonomous; free: an independent businessman.
not influenced by the thought or action of others: independent research.

The Declaration of Independence was more than just a declaration that the fledgling country would be independent from Great Britain's rule. It was also a declaration that the individuals in this country would also be independent. Really all the citizens wanted was to live their lives the way they saw best and have the opportunity to make the best of it. I don't think any of that has changed today.

So what's the best way to be independent? To me, the best way is to live my life in a way that allows me to achieve my goals without infringing on others. When I say infringing on others I mean infringing on their ability to achieve their goals.

The Declaration of Independence states that “all men are created equal”. It does not say:

All men are treated equal
All men have equal talents and abilities
All men are to have things equally

The Declaration also says that we have inalienable rights to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. Being independent means that we also have these rights. It also means we DON'T have the right to impede others of these rights.

Now there are situations where people are not able to pursue happiness. We have poverty, hunger, abuse, criminal activity, etc. These things hinder people from pursuing happiness. So how do we handle it? We do it through legislation. Unfortunately there are times when well meaning legislation actually impedes on our independence and inalienable rights. To me, all legislation should pass a basic test. This test being:

Does the legislation allow people the opportunity to lift themselves up and make themselves better?
Or does it allow people to become dependent on another entity and thereby remove ones independence

A simple test right? Now I know I will hear about how if the government doesn't do it for some people then it won't happen. That reminds me of the saying:

Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime.

The saying can be taken one step further. Suppose the man that learns to fish decides that there are better ways to do it. Because he has learned to fish he is free to exercise his independence and innovate new ways to fish that could benefit him even more. Also, the man could remember that being taught to fish set him free and find ways to help others become independent.

So on Independence Day I'm going to celebrate the independence I have. I have the opportunity to make my life better. I have the ability to reach goals. I have the motivation to do so. I will celebrate that I have been taught to fish and look forward to the opportunity to innovate how I fish to make things even better.

Changes - A Review (of Sorts)

2011-05-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Dead? He can't be dead! I must have read that wrong. Chicago's only professional wizard is dead? The man who has more lives than the Cheshire Cat? Can't be. But wait I'm getting ahead of myself.

I've got a confession to make. I'm a big Harry Dresden fan. OK, I'm not the biggest fan in the world, I mean I don't have a Duster, Blue Beetle, Staff, Blasting rod, you get the picture. However, I am addicted to the series by Jim Butcher. I got hooked when the Sci-Fi (yes I know it's SyFy now) channel did one season of "The Dresden Files".

I mean, I'm such a fan of Dresden that I figured that Chicago's Only Professional Wizard could solve the whole Obama birth certificate fiasco. Yes, that's tongue firmly planted in cheek. Yes I know Dresden is a fictitious character. Yes, the whole birth certificate thing was ridiculous. I mean there was a presidential commission that verified his eligibility BEFORE the election took place for Pete's Sake. But I digress, back to the story.

Now I know I'm about a year behind the release date of "Changes". I don't buy books hard cover that often, especially if I'm going to re-read them several times (you should see my Dune series books). So I only recently picked up my paper back copy and read it.

I also knew that at some point in the book an assassin's bullet was going to hit Harry (fraking spoilers). However, while reading the book and knowing what was coming, I was still not prepared for how it went down. I mean really, Dresden had just obliterated (literally) the entire Red Court of vampires (side note, don't mess around with the children of wizards, it's a really bad idea). His house and office had been destroyed earlier and he was just getting some much deserved rest and a date with a woman he should have dated a long time ago.

Anyways, he's just getting things settled down from this latest adventure and decides to wait for his date outside. He is on his Brother's boat and standing on deck when he's hit by at least two bullets. In true Dresden style he separates himself from what is happening and gives his usual snarky commentary. As he falls into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan he hears two voices, one of a wizard he killed who hurled a death curse of "Die Alone" at him. The other was a woman's voice "Hush now" which sounded familiar.

The end of the book leaves us in doubt whether or not he is dead though. He sees a light and that he was moving towards it. It looks like a warm and wonderful place until he hears a sound. "Typical, I thought. Even when you're dead, it doesn't get any easier."

So is he dead? Has he really crossed over? I'm hoping the next book in the series "Ghost Story" answers this question. For me, I'm hoping the adventures of Harry Dresden are not over. I mean I'm addicted and I need a fix right?

Walking Down Memory Lane

2011-05-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I had the rare opportunity to attend Sacrament Meeting in the church where I grew up. As I sat in the pew taking in the messages of faith and testimony my mind started to drift back to when I was younger and the weekly activities that occurred in that chapel.

I remember sitting on the pew with my Mom and siblings. I remember singing hymns and trying to block out my mom's voice (she has a great alto voice for the record) so I could hear myself and make sure I was in tune. I remember putting my head in her lap and her messing with my hair.

As I grew I remember sitting as a Deacon in the front pew with a shirt and tie on and then after the sacramental prayers standing and getting my tray of bread or water. I remember walking the aisles with those trays and passing the sacrament to the members of the congregation.

I remember being a Teacher and preparing the sacrament in the little room located just behind the sacrament table. I remember putting the bread in the trays and filling the water cups. I remember putting them on the table and placing the clean white cloth over them in preparation for being blessed and passed.

I remember as a Priest breaking the bread into bite size pieces. I remember saying the sacramental prayers that blessed the bread and the water. I remember passing the trays to the next generation of Deacons.

I remember the young men and young women I grew up with. The friendships made, the adventures we had growing up together. I remember the good times as well as the bad. I remember the heartaches and the joys. I remember what it felt like to be part of that group.

I remember leaving for college and coming back home to visit. I remember the faces I knew so well smiling and shaking my hand or giving me a hug. I remember the love and support that has always been there.

I remember giving my last discourse before heading on my mission. I remember my family members in attendance. I remember my mom and dad speaking that day. I also remember the well wishes I received from those that had influenced my life.

I remember the leaders who took the time to teach me how to be a better person. The lessons of the Gospel that have served me so well in my life. I remember that even if we didn't get along with them they stilled showed a love that is not forgotten.

I remember my youth with fondness. Not that everything was always a bed of roses, but overall it was never to be missed. I remember well the youth I've had and I hope that I have taken the lessons from that youth to heart and have applied them to my life today.

Pizza, Wings, and Japan

2011-04-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Last year when the earthquake hit Haiti my wife and I decided we would give what we could to help out those suffering. This year with the disaster in Japan we decided to get our children involved. Again we figured out what we could give but how to include the children and make them feel like they had contributed to the cause?

We sat the kids down and proposed that we give something up in order to save the money for the donation. Fridays are usually Pizza and Wing night at our house. We proposed that we miss a certain number of Pizza nights and instead of spending that money we would donate it to help those in Japan. The kids felt that for this cause they could give up Pizza and Wings until the money was earned and the donation made.

As of today we are at the halfway point of our goal for Japan. We discussed this milestone with the kids at dinner on Sunday. They were excited that we've made it this far and said they had no problems in foregoing Pizza and Wings until the goal is met. It's been great to see them not complain about not having our favorite Friday dinner. It will be even better when we write the check and make the donation to help those in need on the other side of the world.

Howling at the Moon

2011-04-19T09:10:00.002-07:00

Last night the Phoenix Coyotes lost their 3rd straight playoff game to the Detroit Red Wings. It was a crushing loss to be sure and in more ways than one. Due to the current ownership situation the loss means that Wednesday night's game may be the last on the Phoenix Coyotes play in Jobing.com arena. The Coyotes, Glendale and the NHL have a deal that would keep the Coyotes in Phoenix, however a "watch dog" group called the Goldwater Institute is jeopardizing it.

At issue is the way the deal is structured. The Goldwater Institute feels that it violates the Arizona State Constitution and is therefore threatening to sue if the deal goes through. The deal relies on the sale of bonds and the threat of the lawsuit has made potential bond buyers nervous enough that only half of the $100 Million have sold (at last check).

To say I'm not happy with the Goldwater Institutes threats would be an understatement. While I understand that they are "looking out" for the citizens of Arizona, they seem unwilling to yield even when a proposal to alleviate their concerns has been made. The potential buyer of the team is Matthew Hulsizer. He changed the terms of the deal in order to help alleviate the concerns of the Goldwater Institute. However, the Institute doesn't think the new terms are good enough. I don't blame Hulsizer for not wanting to change the deal again. At some point you have to say this is my best offer, take it or leave it. Unfortunately the Goldwater Institute doesn't have to take it. They just have to use scare tactics long enough for the bond sale to fail and the team to not be sold to Hulsizer.

This situation has been hanging over the team and the fans all season long. Jobing.com arena should have been rocking this year after the success (even though they didn't advance) against the Red Wings last year. However, when you are not sure whether or not the team you support will be in your town after the season it's hard to justify spending money on them. This is a huge shame as the team has played through this hurricane of politics and bickering to make the playoffs again.

So what's a fan to do? The Coyotes season is almost over. I don't think there is anyway to come back from 3 - 0 down in this series. Especially with 2 games in Detroit. It will be a sad day when this season ends. It will also make me angry if the deal with Hulsizer does not come through and the team is moved to Winnipeg as predicted. It's a shame that Glendale can't threaten to sue the Goldwater Institute with "Obstruction of Commerce" or some such thing to get them to back down.

If the Coyotes move hockey fans here will be left with few options. Who will be the regional team for Arizona? The L.A. Kings? Can't do that we hate them here as they are in the same division. Same goes for Anaheim and San Jose. Colorado? St. Louis or even (gasp!) Detroit? The answer is the same NO! Unfortunately if the Coyotes move then hockey will pretty much die here in Arizona. Also, the only major sports team to make the playoffs in 2011 will be no more.

I for one haven't given up complete hope. As long as the Coyotes are playing there is a chance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Unfortunately Phoenix has a Herculean task ahead in order to advance in the Stanley Cup playoffs. It might be an even bigger task to keep them here in Phoenix.

Balance

2011-02-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

Balance is something that we strive for in this life. We always hear about how important balance is. For instance the balance between work and family. The balance between the secular and the spiritual. The balance between spouse, children and personal time. Balancing one's checkbook and other finances. Yes balance is a part of our life that we strive for. But it also works on a larger scale.

At work balance is desirable in order to get the job done, on time, on budget and maintaining customer satisfaction. In the extended family balance is needed to ensure that relationships don't deteriorate or are severed completely. In the community balance brings us closer together and allows us to solve the issues we all face.

In our government it was setup to have checks and balances. We have the three branches, Executive, Legislative and Judicial who are supposed to keep each other in check. However, I believe that the second part, balances, is something that we don't pay enough attention to.

Our republic was setup so that we could keep ourselves close to the middle of the political spectrum. Our founding fathers saw that on one end there was Tyranny and that at the other end was Anarchy. Knowing that these two forms of government could never succeed for long, the founding fathers took a new approach and that's where balance comes in.

Think of the political spectrum as a teeter totter. There is a fulcrum in the middle that when things are in balance both sides are level. If one side is heavier than the other then the heavier side falls to the ground and the lighter side rises to the sky. This in turn causes an out of balance condition and can lead to instability.

Just like that teeter totter, our republic relies on balance to keep things going. Having one side of the political spectrum dominate causes things to go out of balance and leads us closer to either Tyranny or Anarchy. This was the fear of the founding fathers. Their hope was that by setting up the branches of government as they did things would remain in balance.

Today is President's day. In honor of today we should all take a moment and think about the way our Republic is setup. That we should encourage those who have been entrusted to lead this country that the best way to succeed is to have balance. We should encourage those on both sides to take a good look at themselves and realize that they don't have all the answers. Maybe then we can find the balance that will lead our country to continued success and greatness.

2010 the year in sports in AZ

2010-12-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

Oh what a difference the beginning of the year versus the end of the year makes in sports. In Arizona it's been a crazy ride.

In January we had the following:

Arizona Cardinals in the NFL Playoffs
Phoenix Suns making a run to the playoffs
Phoenix Coyotes on their way to 107 points and a playoff birth
Arizona Diamondbacks anticipation for a good season

Now in December we see the following:

Arizona Cardinals 3 - 9 (as of today)
Phoenix Suns mediocrity
Phoenix Coyotes making another run after a lackluster start
Arizona Diamondbacks making moves at the GM meetings and anticipation of a new Spring Training Facility and the All-Star Game

Taken one at a time:

The Cardinals first sign that things would not be the same was the retirement of Kurt Warner. This left the team in a quarterback quandary. Could Matt Leinart be the QB of the future? Who would the team sign? There were a few other players that let the team via free agency which hurt, but it seemed that the replacements could fill in fine. The team signed Derek Anderson to compete with Leinart for the starting job. The preseason came and the Cardinals offense was offensive. Leinart was cut and Anderson named the starter. Un-drafted rookie Max Hall and 5th round draft pick John Skelton were named the number 2 and 3 quarterbacks. It hasn't worked out for the Cardinals and the 3 - 9 record proves that.

The Suns had their own off season changes. Most notably the departure of Amare Stoudamire. This gave everyone the opinion that they would not be able to compete in the Western Conference. So far they haven't done bad, however I believe that they will fade as they rely too heavily on Steve Nash to be on his game every night. Can they make the playoffs? Maybe, but I wouldn't be surprised if they ended up around 10th or 11th in the conference.

The Coyotes had some changes, but nothing major. The biggest issue surrounding the team was who would step up and buy them. The NHL currently owns the team and if a buyer was found that would move the team then the fan base would deteriorate dramatically. That situation however seems to be getting closer to resolved. Nevertheless the team did not start out well. Then a hot streak in November and the Coyotes are starting to show the form that won over the fans. Hopefully they will continue to be strong and given head coach Dave Tippetts style they should once again make the playoffs. Here's hoping because there is nothing quite like the atmosphere of playoff hockey (and I want to go to a few playoff games again).

Finally the Diamondbacks have had many changes this past year. The team performed poorly during the season and the manager and GM were both let go mid-way through the season. Enter in Kevin Towers (former Padres GM) and Kirk Gibson as manager and things may get turned around. The trade of Mark Reynolds earlier this week and the rumored trade talks surrounding Justin Upton should have put everyone on notice that Towers will be taking this team in a direction that will (hopefully) build a winner. The D-Backs will be moving to a new Spring Training facility in Scottsdale this year and host the all-star game. The team needs to perform to show that these "perks" are warranted. I believe the players will respond, but whether that translates to success on the field is anyone's guess.

If the question "Which professional Arizona sports team would be the best in 2010?" was asked in January, I believe the answer would have been the Suns or the Cardinals. It's amazing to me that if it was asked now the answer HAS to be the Coyotes. Imagine hockey in the desert is better than football, basketball or baseball.

Depressed

2010-12-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

I am depressed. Yes I admit it. I don't know if I need medication for this bout of depression, however it could be a close call. You see yesterday morning FIFA announced the countries that will host the World Cup Soccer Tournament in 2018 and 2022. The USA bid for the 2022 games and my hopes were high that we would be awarded the cup. My 7 year old soccer son will be 18 in 2022 and it would be a great graduation gift to take him to some games.

Alas it was not to be. The 2022 games were awarded to Qatar. Now I'm willing to bet that most of you can't pick out the country of Qatar on a map even if it was written in 72 point bold font. The country is smaller than Connecticut, has one major city and only one "world class" soccer stadium. Oh yeah, did I mention that in June and July (when the cup is traditionally played) it reaches temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit on a regular basis?The Qatar bid boasted of being able to build air conditioned stadiums that would suit the needs of fans and players perfectly. Of course anything's possible when you simulate it on a computer. Qatar has never qualified for a World Cup and now they have by virtue of being the host. My bet is they will be the second host nation not to advance to the second round (South Africa was the first in 2010).

FIFA has stated that one of its goals was to broaden soccer's appeal globally. Qatar they say gives them a chance to get into the Islamic world as well as the Middle East. Of course placing the tournament in an oil-rich country probably doesn't hurt. Not that I'm saying Qatar didn't buy the votes it needed to win, however they did play a very political game to get them.

I tweeted, facebooked, and plurked that the decisions for 2018 and 2022 were travesties. I still believe that to be the case. FIFA has become a political machine and is getting up there with the Olympics as far as how to host an event. Let there be no doubt this is NOT about the game, it's about politics. It's a shame that President Blatter can't take his own advice about sport that he stated in yesterday's awarding ceremony.

As for me? Well the depression will subside in a few months (maybe after the major soccer leagues in Europe come off their Winter break). But it will hit again in 2014, 2018 and 2022 as I think about what might have been. I mean could you imagine the look on an 18 year old when he finds out that he will be traveling the country to see the world's top soccer stars play in the World Cup?

The next three cups will be in Brazil, Russia and Qatar. Not exactly the kind of road trips that I would plan with my son. Although I did live in Chile for 2 years and know what to expect, it would still be hard as I don't speak any of the languages in those three countries. I will have to see what transpires, but the dream of attending a World Cup may have to wait until a tournament further out than 2022.

Of course it could be worse. I mean I could be English. The birth place of soccer was voted out in the first round of balloting for the 2018 cup. They haven't hosted a tournament since 1966. It seemed like the right time to bring football to its mother land. Alas again it was not to be.

The decisions by the voters at FIFA are hard to explain when you look at what has to be done in order to pull off a tournament the likes of the World Cup. Two countries that have the infrastructure, stadiums and fans (yes there are soccer fans in the US) were bypassed. This was done in order to give soccer a more "global" reach. Note to FIFA, you get global reach by attracting the fans to the games and to the TV. Host it poorly and watch the world move away. For soccer's sake I hope that Russia and Qatar can live up to their promises. I know England and the US can.

A Short Story

2010-11-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

“Where's all the meat?” I asked the butcher behind his counter.
“It's all back here, there's a new regulation that families can only get so much meat per day.” replied the butcher
“Is there some kind of shortage?” I responded.
“No, no shortage, only a new regulation by executive order. It came down late last night. We had to scramble since 2AM to get everything behind the counter.”
I sat there and thought this can't be happening. “So what do I have to do now to buy meat?”
“Well what's your name?”
“James Carnahan”
“Ok, let me look you up. Says here you are 45, your wife is 38 and you have children that are 12, 10, 8, 5, and 3 years old”
“Right”
“Ok, based on the data we have you can buy 3 pounds of hamburger today”
“But I want chicken and I'm doing my shopping for the month so I need more than 3 pounds.”
“Sorry sir, but you can only get hamburger today and only 3 pounds based on your family data.”

I bought my 3 pounds of hamburger and headed home. I knew I was going to here it from my wife that I didn't get everything on the list. As I was driving home I wondered how we got to this point? I decided it started a few years ago when there was a push to reduce childhood obesity. The White House had decided to appoint a special committee to look into the issue and start formulating a plan to make (I prefer force) children to eat better.

The committee performed several studies and made several recommendations, however Congress took no action to legislate what children could eat. At that point I figured the issue was dead and that there would be recommendations but no legislation. Alas I was wrong. It seems that the President under pressure from his political base created an executive order that instantly became law in the country. The executive order was signed in the middle of the night and was to be enforced by 6AM local time the next day.

I went home and did what any other red blooded American would do. I got online and looked up the Executive Order. Sure enough it took about an hour and a half to find the text of the order (the government isn't known for its transparency after all). The text was as follows:

Distribution of Butcher Related Products to Families

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Purpose. Due to the inability of the American people to properly regulate their diet it has become necessary to enforce the distribution of butcher related products. This will ensure that we have a healthier population and therefore allow for America to continue in its greatness.

Section 2.Policy. (a) To achieve a healthier America, all places of business will now be required to limit the distribution of butcher products to American families. This will be accomplished by:

(i) Each family will be allowed to buy a certain amount of meat each day
(ii) Each family will be allowed to by the following:
- Monday: Hamburger
- Tuesday: Pork
- Wednesday: Chicken
- Thursday: Non-Chicken Poultry
- Friday: Lunch/Deli Meat
- Saturday: Bacon, Sausage, Hot Dogs, Bratwurst and other Sausage like meats
- Sunday: No meat sold
(iii) The following schedule will be used to determine the number of pounds of meat that a family can buy each day:
- Family of 2: half pound
- Family of 3: 1 pound
- Family of 4: 1.5 pounds
- Family of 5: 2 pounds
- Family of 6: 2.5 pounds
- Family of 7 or more: 3 pounds

Section 3. Butcher Product Distribution Oversight Committee. The Butcher Product Distribution Oversight Committee is responsible for determining the formulas for product distribution. It will have oversight of businesses to ensure that the regulations described in this executive order. It has the authority to enforce the regulations through federal law enforcement if necessary. The committee will setup sub-committees as appropriate.

THE WHITE HOUSE

November 15th, 2010

Stunned, it's the only word that fits. With one stroke of his pen the President was able to limit my choices in the food I buy, how much I buy and when I can buy it. I wondered if this could be legal? I did my research and found that yes it is. Could it be challenged? Again the answer was yes? How to challenge it was the next question. For that I had no answers.

So what to do? Do I just accept the fact that this is the way it is? What could I do? Then I got distracted by “The Big Bang Theory” and Sheldon's relationship with Amy Farrah Fowler. Of course to put what I just read into physics I would be an object attached to another object on an inclined plane wrapped helically around an axis (translation: screwed).

The End is Near

2010-11-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

The End is Near. I just know it. No, I'm not talking about tomorrow's elections and the possibility that there will be a GOP Tsunami. I'm talking of course about College Football.

The new BCS rankings have come out. And for the first time in its history there are three non-BCS teams in the top 5. The three teams are TCU, Boise State and Utah. I'm sure there are those at the BCS right now hiring computer hackers to infiltrate the computer systems. Others are probably bribing college coaches to vote the three infidels lower. Still others are probably scheming a way to ensure that this never happens again.

You see there hasn't been a non-BCS national championship team since 1984 when the BYU cougars went undefeated and took the top spot in both the AP and Coaches polls. Now there still may not be a non-BCS BCS national champion. However it looks as if nothing will stop TCU and Boise State (or Utah and Boise State more on that in a minute). Wouldn't it be something if we had Horned Frogs (or Utes) battling Blue Broncos for all the marbles? It would be a perfect end to the BCS.

There are three right now, however it can't stay that way. TCU plays Utah and the loser of that game is guaranteed to drop out of the top 10 and probably not even get a BCS birth. But hey, what's a little sacrifice to ensure the BCS doesn't get a BCS team in the national championship game?

Hopefully two of the three teams stay undefeated. It would be something if they were the only undefeated teams in the country and didn't get a chance to play for the national championship. That would cause weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth for sure. In fact I'm pretty sure if that happened the mood would turn to blood and earthquakes would abound. Of course that's all hypothetical speculation until it happens.

So the End is Near just so long as two of the three remain in the top five and possibly the top 2.

The Case For God

2010-10-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

So I was on a flight to Phoenix on Wednesday when I looked across the aisle and saw that the man across from me was reading “The Case for God”. The first thought that went through my mind was “There's a book I don't have to read”. Why you may ask? Well let me explain. . .

It happened about 24 years ago. I was a freshman in college and trying to figure out if the things that I had learned growing up in church were right and true. I was following a pattern that was promised to get me an answer. Basically the pattern is this:

Study out the things you have been taught
Have faith that God will let you know that these things are true
Ask God to let you know if they are true
God will answer your prayers if you have real intent and are sincere

A simple formula right? So that's what I did. I read and studied. I pondered the things that I learned to see if they felt right. Finally I came to a point where I needed to know if the things I had read and studied were true. I had a sincere to desire to know if God would validate this.

I was alone in my dorm room and took to praying. It was not a short prayer. I detailed out the things that I read and studied. I told God that they “felt” right in my conscience. I then asked if He would let me know that they were right.

It's hard to describe the exact feelings that came over me. The best way to describe it is that every part of my body felt joy and happiness. It was a complete feeling. A feeling of pure elation. When that happened I knew I got my answer. I knew God was there and listening. I knew what was right and true and that now that it had been validated by Him, I had a choice of whether to follow it or turn away from it. I chose to follow.

For me the case for God was made. I know that everyone's experience will be different. Some people may come to know that God is there and then choose not to follow up on it. Some will. For me? The choice was made simpler because it wasn't something I was told to do, but rather something I was given a choice to do. I don't need any more evidence than the personal witness I received 24 years ago.

Integrity

2010-09-17T10:13:00.000-07:00

There is a commercial out currently showing two High School Basketball teams playing in a championship game. There is a play where the ball goes off a player, but the ref misses it and gives the ball to that player's team. The coach calls time-out (it's near the end of the game and the team is losing) and starts to setup a play. The player whose hand the ball went off pipes up and tells the coach that the ball went off of him. The players start to give him a hard time. The coach to his credit tells his team to foul when the ball is put into play. As the team heads out the coach calls out to the player who is being honest and gives him the approval nod. The player then goes over to the referee and admits to the ball being out. The tag line is "Integrity. Pass it on."

Two days ago an incident happened in the Yankees - Rays game where integrity should have been shown. Derek Jeter with no one on turned to try and bunt for a hit. The pitch came inside. Jeter let go of the bat with his left hand (closest to the ball) and the ball hit the end of the bat. Jeter turns away and shakes his hand as if it's been hit and the umpire awards him first base. Now I won't go into the fact that the first base umpire should have seen the ball hit the bat and help the home plate umpire nor the fact that the sound of the ball hitting the bat was distinct from it hitting a gloved hand. What I want to focus on is the post game remarks of Jeter. When asked he stated that the ball hit the bat. Then he was asked about shaking his hand and admitted that it was vibration and "acting". Here is where Jeter damaged the integrity of baseball. Basically he cheated to win.

MLB has always talked about "the integrity of the game". Keeping that in mind, MLB should fine Derek Jeter for damaging that integrity. Also, in my opinion, they should suspend him for 2 games. MLB should send the message that its players need to have integrity. Jeter was also quoted as saying he wasn't going to tell the umpire about it because he didn't want to "change the call". To me it's one of the things that drives me nuts about professional athletes. The lack of integrity, the lack of admitting that something happened just so the call can go their way.

A better example is the PGA tour. The players call fouls on themselves. They also make sure that they do everything possible to have a game that is true to its core. It may cost them a championship, but we see it often. Imagine if this was true in the "major" sports.

I could go on about areas other than sports where we don't see integrity. However, I believe I will save those for another day.

MLB should punish Jeter for his behavior and serve notice that this type of behavior endangers the integrity of the game and won't be stood for.

Lest We Forget

2010-09-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 9th anniversary of 9/11. Today should be a day of remembrance for the terrible attack on New York City, The Pentagon and the heroics that happened on Flight 93. Today is the day we should put aside our political, ideological and theological differences. We should stand as one.

I remember distinctly where I was when news broke about the planes that crashed into the World Trade Center. I was getting ready for work and had the news on in the bedroom. The pictures were unbelievable. It was hard to fathom that something like that could happen in our land. In the 20th and 21st centuries attacks against us have been rare. 9/11 and Pearl Harbor being the two we remember most.

Here it is 9 years later and it seems that the events of 9/11 have not kept us unified as a nation. We seem to be more politically divided than ever. Gone are the days when the members of congress would be seen singing "God Bless America" on the steps of the capitol. Gone are the days where the government would work together on a common goal. Today we should remember that time where it didn't matter if you were Democrat, Republican, Independent, Green, etc. We're Americans and we should all be working together to ensure that America stays the greatest nation in the land.

Those who lost their lives on that tragic day need to be remembered. They paid a price that no one should pay. They didn't even suspect that this tragedy would occur. There are protests planned for today on the site where these people lost their lives. Protests that are more politically motivated than remembering what happened. In some ways today is being hijacked again by those who want to use it for their own gain.

Today should be remembered for what happened and not used to further this cause or that. It should be remembered as a black day in our history when people who don't like our way of life and the freedoms we stand for took something away from us. It should be remembered so that the people who lost their lives won't have lost them in vain. It should be remembered for the heroes of flight 93 who did everything they could to ensure that another plane would NOT crash into a building. It should be remembered as a time when we came together as a nation even "One Nation under God" if you will.

Today is 9/11. What will you do to remember it and honor those whose lives were taken?

Kickoff Pro Style

2010-09-09T10:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight kicks off the NFL season. My Fantasy Football teams will now begin to accumulate points and try to defeat all comers in a race to claim best guess as to who will perform well this year. Of course things could be worse. . .

I met a fairy today that would grant me one wish.
"I want to live forever," I said.

"Sorry" said the fairy, "I'm not allowed to grant wishes like that!"

"Fine" I said, "I want to die after the Buffalo Bills win the Super Bowl!"

"You crafty bastard," said the fairy.

For those of you who don't know, yes I'm a Bills fan. I've seen it all except for that elusive Super Bowl win.

Of course I now live in Arizona which has seen its share of drama this year in training camp. First before camp even started Kurt Warner announced his retirement and left the starting job to heir apparent (or not) Matt Leinart. Camp started with four quarterbacks, Matt Leinart, Derek Anderson, John Skelton and Max Hall. It became apparent early that there would be a competition not only for the starting quarterback position, but also for back-up and third string.

Things got even more interesting when head coach Ken Whisenhunt decided to start Derek Anderson over Matt Leinart. Leinart's stay in AZ was all but done. Last week he was cut. The battle for backup QB was then down to drafted John Skelton and not drafted Max Hall. Max has been impressive throughout training camp and has won the job for now.

The Cardinals are the reigning NFC West champions and until someone takes it from them no one can deny it. It doesn't matter what the pundits say about San Francisco (really Greenburg SF to clinch in Oct?) it is Arizona's title and they will defend it. That said the NFC West is not the strongest division and probably a record of 9-7 or 10-6 will win it. Can you say wild card weekend? Personally I think the Cards will go 9-7 and win the West in a tiebreak.

In other exciting (or not) news, Brett Favre decided retirement should wait one more year and the Vikings decided that would be a good idea. We will see what happens tonight as the NFC championship rematch with the New Orleans Saints is the season opener. Darrelle Revis held out long enough to miss camp and then sign with the Jets. Albert Haynesworth found out that new coach Mike Shanahan wouldn't be a push-over. Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco will be running routes together (and in my opinion running into each other).

Overall it should be a good season. I predicted (optimistically) that my Bills would go 8-8. It means that there will be no playoffs in Orchard Park again this year. Hopefully progress. Not counting on it, I mean after all I am a die-hard Bills fan. Now to go find that fairy and get my wish. . .

Kickoff College Style

2010-09-07T09:04:00.001-07:00

Kickoff of the college football season happened last Thursday and continued through last night. It was a crazy start to a crazy off season. I mean look at the following that occurred in the off season:

The Big 10 became the Big 12
The Big 12 became the Big 10
The PAC 10 became the PAC 12
BYU goes independent in Football
Boise State and Nevada bolt the WAC for the Mountain West

Then kickoff of the season with two non-automatic qualifying schools ranked in the preseason top ten. Boise State and TCU both started the year with wins over BCS teams (VA Tech and Oregon State respectively). A FCS team, Jacksonville State, beat a FBS (and automatic qualifying BCS school) Ole Miss.

A crazy way to start. Now if you've followed my blog you know what I think of the BCS. Some of you know that I have also created my own system to rank teams. This year? I think I will sit back and see what happens with Boise State and TCU. If they both go undefeated will the BCS put them in the same BCS bowl game again? Or will they have the guts to put them up against the “Big Boys”?

My guess is that if both go undefeated and there are only three undefeated teams in the country we will see Boise State and TCU play in a non-championship BCS bowl game against each other. This means that a one loss BCS school will get into the national championship game and the debate will begin again about the system.

Yes, it's time to get fired up about the BCS. It makes for great debates and stupid comments. Logic goes out the window a lot of times (even in this blog I must admit). It's always fun to see the fanatics and argue the pros and cons (mostly cons in my opinion) of the system.

Madness

2010-09-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

I know that the term "madness" is usually reserved for March, but I think that I can make a good case that the beginning of September begins madness in the Blinston household. So here I go:

First, Birthday season is upon us. Over the next five months all seven birthdays occur. For a quick schedule it goes like this:

September: Lia
October: Grace
November: Sam, Ellie and I
December: Levi
January: Cheryl

Of course that means we are all getting a year older and hopefully wiser. It also means birthday gifts and parties which as everyone knows can lead to madness.

Next up is all the activities that go on. For starters kids go back to school. We have a 4th, 2nd and 1st grader with Grace in Preschool. This means parent-teacher meetings, school events and homework. Yes madness ensues.

Of course school isn't the only thing going on. All the kids are in at least one activity. Here's the list:

Levi: Horse Lessons and Flag Football
Ellie: Dance and Piano lessons
Sam: Club Soccer and Music lessons
Grace: Dance Lessons
Lia: Tumble Class

Can you say scheduling madness? Of course we can. Every night of the week something is happening except for the weekend when games are played on Saturday.

What else contributes to the madness you ask? Well how about Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years? There's no madness in a family's schedule with four holidays in four months is there?

Ok, moving on from family more madness ensues when you consider the following:

English Premier League Soccer kickoff
College football kickoff (and don't get me started on the BCS and other news, that's for another post)
NFL Kickoff (can you say Fantasy Football?)
NHL Puck Drop
MLB Playoffs and World Series
NBA Tip-off
PGA Fed Ex cup
College Basketball Tip-off

No madness for a person who's a sports fanatic right?

Now throw in the service we give in our church and then activities that we want to do ourselves. Don't forget the full-time job I have with work and the full-time job Cheryl has at home (I'm still trying to figure out how she doesn't get paid more than me). I'm sure you'll agree that madness has occurred.

I'm not trying to take anything away from March, but you've got to admit that the Blinston household probably could give it a run for its money.

I've Been Trained

2010-08-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

As part of my current work with the 14 - 16 year old boys I was registered as the Varsity Scout Coach. In order to be an effective scout leader one has to be trained. There are several courses online that can be taken, but the one that cannot is Leader Specific Training.

This training involves a day of "classroom" instruction and an overnight event. The "classroom" instruction started at 7AM on a Saturday morning and ended at 3PM. There was a "gathering" activity to start the day. It was tennis ball dodge ball. Anyone who hasn't played this version should try it. Getting hit with a tennis ball leaves marks and catching them is nigh impossible. Now imagine you have 50 guys between their late 20s and early 50s. Yes it was a riot.

Classroom instruction can get boring, however the staff did a good job of not letting it get too tedious. The instruction was basically about how the program is organized and how to get the boys to run it. You see in scouting the adult leaders should really be advisers and the boys should really run the show.

The overnight event was better than the classroom instruction. We arrived at the camp site and set up our tents (yes we slept in the great outdoors). There was a camp fire program where the squads (which were formed in the classroom instruction) were to announce their name, give a yell and then perform a skit. My squad was the "Barely Theres". Our yell:

Barely Theres are everywhere,
But wherever we are
we're barely there

Our skit involved four suckers, I mean volunteers. These were led away from the camp and told that the audience would be guessing what they acted out. The men acted out a World War II fighter pilot, a man in an earthquake, a contestant in a hot dog eating contest, and someone with ants in his pants. We led the volunteers away to give them their assignment. In the meantime the last of our squad was informing the audience that we all know how uncomfortable it is to do one's business in the woods. That the volunteers would be demonstrating how they cope with this when they come up. With that each volunteer came up and sat in a chair and acted out their part. It was hilarious to see them act. Of course at the end of the skit we informed the volunteers what was actually going on.

After the camp fire program we headed to bed as the morning was going to start at 5:30. At 5:30 the director of the program came around with a rendition of "Have I done any good in the world today?" off key and definitely woke the world. At 6:00 AM we had a flag ceremony and a small morning devotional where we learned a little bit more about the Star Bangled Banner. Breakfast was muffins, bagels, croissants, fruit and yogurt.

After breakfast we started our stations. The first one for my squad was Backpacking. We learned about what equipment was needed and how to pack them appropriately. We recently had gone backpacking with the boys so this was old hat.

Next was Geo Caching. For those of you unfamiliar with it, basically it's using GPS to locate specific coordinates where items have been placed. Yes it's a treasure hunt and something that can be done with the whole family. I brought our family's hand held GPS unit and learned a trick or two.

Third up was a review of the Mountain Man Rendezvous. This is a gathering where scouts get into period costumes and make artifacts from that period that can be traded with others. We saw things that were made such as knives, powder horns, pouches, coats, etc.

Lunch was then served. Each squad had a Dutch Oven recipe to make. Our squad made Hawaiian chicken and rice. A good recipe for sure. Lunch also included stews, cheesy potatoes, and desserts. All made in the Dutch Oven. All of it was tasty so each group did a good job (and believe me there was some worries about some of the squads).

Our last station was rappelling. I had never done rappelling before and it was only a 30 foot cliff so it wasn't that bad. Now, I have an initial fear of heights. Meaning I have to get over the first fear of the height and then I'm fine. So after I was clicked in and given the basics I started out. The others in the group gave me suggestions. About 1/2 way down the instructor had me bounce off the rocks and get moving a little bit. I have to admit it was a lot of fun and I look forward to being able to do larger rappels in the future.

The last part of training was a recap of what happened. It was a time to reflect on the training and how it will benefit the boys we are to advise. Our certificates were handed out and we were all proclaimed "trained".

All in all it was well worth the time. Now the tricky part is to get the training implemented with my boys. Probably not an easy task, but something that will happen. I mean after all, I've been trained.

What is Truth?

2010-08-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

Today word came out that Fox News' parent corporation made large donations to the Republican Governor's association. The story also noted that pretty much all news media (CNN, CBS, NBC, ABC, etc) have made political donations (mostly to Democrats by the way). It begs the question, do any of them report the truth or is it all slanted?

In church there is a hymn we sing called Oh Say, What is Truth? The last verse goes:

Then say, what is truth? 'Tis the last and the first,
For the limits of time it steps o'er.
Tho the heavens depart and the earth's fountains burst,
Truth, the sum of existence, will weather the worst,
Eternal, unchanged evermore.

Unfortunately in this era of ratings and advertising the truth seems to be something of little importance to the "news" media. There is always a slant that misconstrues the truth and leans either to the right or left politically. It is a huge issue for those who are young and impressionable as they are easily swayed and can mistake the slant for the truth. For others it leaves a feeling of distrust and dislike leading to misconceptions and over exaggerations about the source.

So in this world of slanted news how does one know the truth? How can the truth be deciphered from the pieces that are given to us by those who are supposed to report the actualities of what is going on?

My answer? Read/view as much as you can and let your instinct (gut, spirit, whatever you want to call it) guide you. If it feels right, then it probably is. If it feels wrong, it almost definitely is. Don't be afraid to challenge premises and assumptions. Take off any colored glasses you may have on (which is very difficult to do sometimes) and look at things as objectively as possible.

So what can be done to make the news media report things without bias? The last thing I want is for them to be regulated and forced to do things. They should be doing things because it is the right thing to do. However, doing the right thing seldom makes money and let's face it, it's hard to do the right thing without cash.

So where does that leave us? Well it means that we have to be smart enough to see the slant to the story and look for the things that will lead us to more truth. That is not an easy thing to do. Also it takes time. Of course the truth is probably worth it in order to ensure that we don't get duped by those on either side of the political aisle.

I've Been Amused

2010-07-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

Today we took our three oldest to an amusement park (Lagoon in Utah to be specific). It was a great time and the kids had a lot of fun. Of course when one goes to an amusement park, there are always things that amuse you more than the rides and other attractions. Today for instance before lunch I made the following three observations:

1. Some people need to be reminded that Frightmares (what it's called at Lagoon) is in October and not July

2. Teenage girls should not wear greet t-shirts that say "Rub For Luck" on the front of them.

3. People who are old enough to be Grandparents who have younger children SHOULD wear shirts that say "Yes, I am the Mother!" on them

Ok, in some sense I tend to mock people who wear tube socks for cover-ups or shirts that look like they've been modified by ripping to get that off the shoulder look. And believe me, there were plenty of examples of fashion faux-pas today that some of my social network pals could do "What was he/she thinking?" for months.

On the other side there were plenty of other people at the park who I admired. I saw at least three groups of people taking those who are mentally disabled on rides. Allowing these people the opportunity to get out and have fun in a great atmosphere.

I saw my own children helping other children get out of belts and harnesses at rides without even being asked. I witnessed courtesy in all its many forms. Politeness also made its presence known.

I saw families enjoying the atmosphere, food and attractions. All kinds of families were present, everything from new families just starting out to ones like ours where Grandparents to Grandchildren wore similar shirts to show family unity.

All in all I was greatly amused and hope to continue this 2 year tradition we have going.

World Cup Quarterfinals

2010-07-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

So I went 5 - 3 in my round of 16 picks. Not too bad. Obviously picking England and Portugal were risky. The US? Maybe I led with my heart a little more than I should have. BTW, the first Dutch goal was scored by Robben so I should get some credit.

Anyways, the quarterfinals start tomorrow. Again I am making picks so let's go:

Netherlands - Brazil: It's a shame they're meeting in the quarters. This is going to either be a super classic or a super stinker. I think both teams will go on the attack. The Dutch are probably the only team that can compete with Brazil in the midfield. Look for an intense game. I think this is going to produce the eventual champion. I'm going with an upset. Netherlands 3 - Brazil 2. Robben again the man to provide the Dutch spark.

Uruguay - Ghana: Probably the most unexpected match up in the quarters. Ghana showed a lot of heart against the US. Uruguay seem to be hitting their stride. I don't think Ghana can handle the combination of Forlan and Suarez. Another spirited game. Expect a lot of physical play and fouls to be committed. I'll take Uruguay to win 3 - 1. Forlan gets one on a free kick and Suarez scores the final goal on the counter attack.

Argentina - Germany: Call this one "Clash of the Titans". Another game to put in the "shame it's in the quarters" category. Argentina is still sore from the loss four years ago. Germany is looking strong. I expect to see Argentina on the attack with Germany on the counter. It's going to be low scoring, but I think this is the game that Messi scores and shines in. Argentina 2 - Germany 1

Paraguay - Spain: This is the "David vs Goliath" game in the quarters. Paraguay couldn't score against Japan, but hit every penalty. Spain played well and David Villa's goal was well taken. However, the Spanish did a lot of flopping and in a quarterfinal that won't fly. I don't see any way Paraguay can handle Spain's attack. Paraguay's keeper Villar will have to play on his head to keep this close. Don't expect that to happen. Spain 3 - Paraguay 0.

So there you have it. With the picks we will have Netherlands - Uruguay and Argentina - Spain in the semifinals. Of course I'll have a finals pick after tomorrow's games.

World Cup Round of 16 matches

2010-06-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

The first round of the World Cup has finished. Some surprises have occurred (are you listening Les Bleus and Azurri?). Anyways, tomorrow the 2nd round starts. I thought I would give my predictions for each of the games:

Uruguay - South Korea: Uruguay showed class in their group. South Korea was tenacious. Outcome? Uruguay 3 - South Korea 1. Forlan too much for the Koreans

USA - Ghana: Americans with a dramatic victory to get in. Ghana held on to advance. A physical affair. Outcome? USA 2 - Ghana 1. Dempsey and Altidore score on balls played by Donovan.

Netherlands - Slovakia: Dutch haven't peaked yet. Slovakia kicked out the defending champs. Outcome? Big Orange Machine 3 - Slovakia 1. Robben the play maker and scorer of the first goal.

Brazil - Chile: Brazil is the class of the tournament. Chile are gritty. Finesse against physical. Outcome? Brazil 1 - Chile 1. Brazil advances on penalties. Kaka man of the match.

Argentina - Mexico: Argentina are the 2nd best team in the tourney. Mexico played it's group well and helped to send France out. A spirited affair. Outcome? Argentina 3 - Mexico 2. Messi gets the game winner.

Germany - England: Germany started well, but fizzled somewhat. England fizzled but brought it when they had to. Probably the most interesting (or 2nd most) match. Outcome? England 2 - Germany 0. Rooney finally shows up.

Paraguay - Japan: Paraguay helped to send Italy out. Japan figured out the Jabulani. A toss-up? Bet on the South Americans. Outcome? Paraguay 2 - Japan 1. Paraguay presses and it pays off.

Spain - Portugal: Spain won when they had to, but haven't looked sharp. Portugal had a seven goal outburst. Most entertaining (maybe most interesting) match in this round. Outcome? Portugal 3 - Spain 2. Portugal scores in extra time. Ronaldo kills the Spaniards.

As a result? Uruguay - USA, Netherlands - Brazil, Argentina - England, Paraguay - Portugal in the quarter finals. Tune in for predictions once the quarters are set. Until then I'll be blowing my Vuvuzela.

World Cup First Games

2010-06-16T16:40:00.001-07:00

The first set of games for World Cup 2010 have been played. I have a few observations to share.

The first is the overall play of the first round was cautious. It had to be, teams can't afford to go all out and then lose on one counter attack. Some call this boring. However, in every other sport the first game (in American football it's usually the first quarter) is usually a feel out game. It takes time for the teams to understand what the other team is trying to do before taking chances. This was the prevailing mood in the first games. Germany seemed to be the only team to get out of the feeling out phase quickly enough to win by 4.

The most boring game of the first round had to be Portugal vs the Ivory Coast. Neither team seemed inspired nor willing to do what was necessary to score. Those two teams had better pick it up in their next game or they will be the ones left out of the group of death given the way North Korea played Brazil.

Surprises? North Korea holds Brazil to a scoreless half and gets a goal late to make the game respectable at 2 – 1. Japan beating Cameroon. New Zealand grabbing a late equalizer against Slovakia. And of course the biggest upset so far, Switzerland taking down Spain 1 – 0 (BTW, Casillas should have been booked for his reckless challenge just before Switzerland's goal).

Howlers? At least three of them by the goalies of England, Paraguay, and Algeria. In the first two it lead to the tying goal. In the last case it was the game winner.

The ball? I don't think the ball is the issue. Players not being in technically good position to hit the strike is more at fault. Look at the replays to verify this. Also, the players have been playing with the ball for a long time now, excuses are just that.

Officiating? I can't remember a set of first games where there wasn't at least one controversy. None so far. Let's hope that remains. Even today's sending off of the South African goalie can't be construed as a controversy.

Boring? Yes a couple of matches have not been entertaining. However, there have been enough games where the entertainment value has been high. There has been excitement in several matches and some have come down to the final minutes.

As the second set of games begins teams will want to win. This will produce better football and should also provide more entertaining games. Hopefully the teams I like will continue to play well (are you listening US and Chile?). After this set of games the picture will become clearer. There may even be some teams that will have clinched a spot in the next round.

Camp Beat the Heat 2010

2010-06-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

And we're off. Camp Beat the Heat 2010 has officially kicked off in the Blinston household. What's Camp Beat the Heat you say? It's the summer time program that my wife prepares and executes while the kids are out of school. Here's the basic format:

Every week has a theme. Week 1's theme is Spy Week. This means that activities are related to things a spy would do. There will be mysteries to solve, clues to be found, and covert activities (such as providing a service to someone anonymously). Every day there is a schedule. The mornings are usually the same and go like this:

1. Bugle Call - A CD with music for Camp Beat the Heat is played to get the kids up and going.
2. Get Dressed, Clean Room, Do Morning Chore and present for Cabin Inspection. If Cabin Inspection is passed there is a prize from the Treasure box
3. Breakfast and Zone cleaning
4. Let the activities begin

This is the fourth year that Camp Beat the Heat has happened. The kids get excited about all the activities that happen. It is a time to spend together (I participate when I can). The kids also get to work on their summer school activities to make sure they are ready for the next year. However this is done in the course of the camp and is made more fun as they do them as part of the activities of the week.

Frankly I think my wife is a genius for putting this together every year. And in case you were wondering here are the songs on the Camp Beat the Heat 2010 play list (yes Phineas and Ferb is a favorite show):

1. Today Is Going to Be a Great Day - Bowling For Soup (Theme to Phineas and Ferb)
2. Uprising - Muse
3. Summer Time - High School Musical II
4. Party in the U.S.A. - Miley Cyrus
5. Gitchee, Gitchee, Goo - Phineas and Ferb
6. Do the Moo Shoo - Veggie Tales
7. Disco Miniature Golfing Queen - Phineas and Ferb
8. Our Song - Taylor Swift
9. All I Want to Do - Sugarland
10. Ready for the Bettys - The Bettys
11. You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) - The Chipmunks
12. Truck Drivin' Girl - Danny Jacob
13. Peanut Butter and Jelly - InsideOut
14. It Happens - Sugarland
15. Fabulous - Phineas and Bobby Fabulous
16. Love Story - Taylor Swift
17. Phinedroids and Ferbots - Phinedroids and Ferbots
18. You Snuck Your Way Right Into My Heart - Love Handle
19. It's Not My Time - 3 Doors Down
20. Renegade - Styx
21. Wanted Dead or Alive - Bon Jovi
22. Pride (In the Name of Love) - U2

Patriotism and School

2010-05-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last night my oldest son and his classmates put on a school presentation. The presentation was about our government and its symbols. The presentation started off with the Pledge of Allegiance. I always get emotional when saying the Pledge. It means something to me to be an American.

The next part of the program talked about our National Anthem. The children did a wonderful job of presenting how Francis Scott Key was inspired to pen the words.

The children then went into the three branches of government. For the Legislative they put on the School House Rock "I'm Just a Bill". It was funny but also showed how a law starts with an idea and goes through the process of getting signed into law.

The executive branch was up next. For this one several students did brief presentations on past Presidents. My oldest did one of these presentations. His was on William McKinley. He did a tremendous job even having blood stains on his shirt to show where McKinley was shot by an assassin.

Next up was the Judicial branch. The kids did a short trial replicating the case of "B.B. Wolf vs Curly Tail Pig". It was a good performance even though I thought the jury got it wrong. Curly Tail is innocent I tell ya!

The most emotional part of the production came next. The meaning of the flag. The children explained why our colors are red, white and blue, why we have 13 stripes and why there are 50 stars. I learned why we have the colors we do.

The emotional part was having one of the teachers explain what the flag means to him. He's a member of the National Guard and is being deployed to Afghanistan in July. He was dressed in uniform and explained the flag while two of the children properly folded a flag. The flag was later presented to the teacher so that he could carry it with him during his deployment.

Finally everyone was invited to sing Lee Greenwood's "Proud to Be an American". The chorus goes:

And I’m proud to be an American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘ Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.

This was the perfect time for this presentation. This is Memorial Day weekend where we should all take the time to remember those who have served our country. I'm glad the kids were able to learn about the importance of our government's structure, it's Anthem, Pledge and Flag. Hopefully they can join in the singing as I do "'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA!"

USA World Cup Roster

2010-05-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

I freely admit I am a soccer fanatic. Just ask my wife. I mean the reason I'm on crutches and in a knee brace right now is because I was playing the game and injured myself. So today was an exciting one for me.

The USA released the names of the 23 men who will compete in the World Cup in South Africa starting June 11th. There were a couple of surprises of who's on and who's off. The roster is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa, England), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton, England), Tim Howard (Everton, England).
Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes, France), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover, Germany), Jay DeMerit (Watford, England), Clarence Goodson (IK Start, Norway), Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan, Italy), Jonathan Spector (West Ham, England).
Midfielders: DaMarcus Beasley (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland), Michael Bradley (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany), Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany), Clint Dempsey (Fulham, England), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles), Maurice Edu (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland), Benny Feilhaber (AGF Aarhus, Denmark), Stuart Holden (Bolton, England), Jose Torres (Pachuca, Mexico).
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Hull, England), Edson Buddle (Los Angeles), Robbie Findley (Salt Lake), Herculez Gomez (Puebla, Mexico).

Left off the list were Chad Marshall, Heath Pearce, Alejandro Bedoya, Sacha Kljestan, Robbie Rogers, Brian Ching and Eddie Johnson.

The surprises for me were that Sacha Kljestan and Eddie Johnson not making the team. It just goes to show that there are options for the US in soccer now and that you have to EARN your spot on the team.

That said, I'm excited to see this team play. They have a warm-up match against Turkey in a few days. It would be good to see the starting line-up that Bob Bradley intends to send against England in this match. I would like to see how they play as a unit and how Bradley will use his substitutions. For my part I think the following will be the starting line-up against England June 12th:

Keeper: Tim Howard

Defenders: Oguchi Onyewu, Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathan Spector, and Clarence Goodson

Midfielders: Landon Donovan, Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark and Clint Dempsey. (Stuart Holden if five are played)

Forwards: Jozy Altidore and Edson Buddle (Buddle on the bench if five midfielders are played)

This is the line-up I think we will see against Turkey and in the first game against England.

In order for the US to do well in the World Cup the following players have to step up for the US to do well:

Oguchi Onyewu - He can anchor the defense and calm the nerves, if he doesn't the US will be sloppy and the goals will pour in
Jozy Altidore - He has to use his strength on the ball and either put it in the back of the net himself or lay it off effectively so Buddle or Donovan can
Ricardo Clark - He has to keep the defensive midfield steady and find Donovan in order for Donovan to shine
Clint Dempsey - We need to have the Dempsey who plays without fear and can be a force from the midfield

The match against Turkey will tell us something of how this team will play. Of course how they react on the Big Stage against a team the likes of England will be big as well. If they play timid they will get destroyed in the tournament. If they play confident then they should make the knock out stage easily.

I put their chances at 50/50 to make the quarter finals (winning their knock out game). If they win their group the chances go up to 60/40. Needless to say I'm stoked and can't wait for the games to begin.

Neighbors

2010-05-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

In Luke chapter 10 a Lawyer asks Jesus what he can do to have eternal life. Jesus asks him how he interprets the law and the Lawyer says:

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy ^aheart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

This past weekend I saw this teaching in action. The street I live on is a great example of what being loving neighbors means. We do not all share the same faith, yet we all share this teaching.

On Friday it was found that I have a Tibia Plateau Fracture. I was fitted with a brace and crutches. On returning home one of our neighbors was walking his dog and asked how I was. Without even hesitating he offered his assistance wherever he could help. Little did I know that the help would be needed so soon.

On Saturday my wife left to go to a canning workshop leaving me with the kids. No big deal, she would be gone for a couple of hours what could happen right? Well if you know my kids anything could happen and did. My oldest son was chasing my 2nd oldest daughter when she fell head first into the bench of our dining table. You guessed it, she gashed her head open. Now I'm hobbled but when the adrenaline flows you can do amazing things. I got to her fairly quickly and over to the sink in order to staunch the bleeding. I tried calling Cheryl with no success. My oldest ran outside and got one of the neighbors to come over.

There was a hole in my daughter's head. Needless to say it was freaky. 911 was called and paramedics came over to take a look. They agreed that she would just need stitches. I told them I would take her to the Urgent Care to get this done. This is where the neighbors come in.

The neighbor who came over offered to drive us to the Urgent Care. Another neighbor took the two boys over to his house so they could play. A third took my oldest daughter who has skating lessons with their daughter. The wife of the neighbor driving us took our youngest daughter with her. No complaints, no hesitation, just good people doing good things. I had no reservations about leaving my children with them. We trust each other implicitly.

We get to the Urgent Care and the neighbor who drove us stayed until Cheryl could come and take us home.

We are very grateful to have the neighbors we do and to have the good relationships with them. It's not only in an emergency that this happens on our street. Every day there are examples of being a good neighbor and living the teachings found in Luke above.

Playoffs?

2010-05-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to see Games 5 and 7 of the Phoenix Coyotes and Detroit Red Wings first round series. There's nothing like the excitement of a playoff game to get your heart racing and your emotions running. However, there are a few things that I've noticed the past few years about the playoffs in all the major sports that bugs me.

1. Going from 5 game first rounds to 7. The powers will be will tell you that the better team will always win the seven game series. That's BULL! the real reason they moved to the 7 game series is money. In hockey you can see that the best team doesn't always win the best of 7 series. The top three seeds all lost their series in the Eastern conference this year. Five game series would still have put the #2 and 3 seeds out, but it would have been very different had games 4 and 5 been must wins.

2. Rule interpretations. In Basketball and Hockey the rules get interpreted more loosely in the playoffs. It's not an excuse for losing, but it is a fact that everyone knows. One instance was in game 7 between Phoenix and Detroit. There was an obvious interference call just before Detroit scored their third goal (on the power play that was a bogus call by the way). The third goal was a back breaker and even though I don't think Phoenix would have won the game, it should have been called and the goal shouldn't have been scored. Who knows what would have happened then?

3. Congratulations after the series. The only sport that gets this right is the NHL. The teams after each series line up at center ice and shake hands. Every kid growing up playing a sport does this. Line up and shake the other team's hand after a hard fought game. How different would it be if the NBA, MLB and NFL instituted such a standard. Granted in the NFL this would be difficult because of the number of players, but something could be done. It is a great showing of respect to both the winners and the losers.

4. Length of time between games and series. The number of days between games is ridiculous. It drags out the playoffs unnecessarily. Also, it gets the players out of rhythm. Players are used to playing a certain number of games in a certain number of days. Again this is done for money. It allows for more games to be on TV and try to get ratings. However, by the end of the playoffs the fans are tired of waiting for a champion and ultimately are glad that it's over.

5. Start times. The time of games get changed in the playoffs. This is especially true for teams on the West Coast. Teams are used to playing home games at a certain time and are geared for that. To play the games earlier to meet a "market need" for earlier time zones is just plain stupid. I will admit that this might have affected the Phoenix Coyotes in Game 7 of their series. Playing even an hour earlier can screw up a player's clock. I'd like to see an East Coast playoff game start at 10:00PM in order to allow for the West Coast team's fans to see the game in prime time. Do you think it would affect the East Coast team?

So there you have it, my gripes. After all of that however, I have to say there is nothing like playoff Hockey. The games are always intense. I would say Football comes second, with Baseball and Basketball in third and fourth. Of course I might be biased.

You can now return to your irregularly scheduled playoff games.

A Day to Remember

2010-04-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

On this Easter day I've been reflecting on two people. The first is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The second is my grandfather. Easter is a time to remember and so I remember the following about each of these remarkable men.

First, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This is the week where we celebrate the last week of his life. It started with the Passover where he ate with his Apostles. At this dinner two major events happened. The first was the institution of the Sacrament. This ordinance is representative of his sacrifice for us. The bread representing His body which his sacrificed on the Cross. The Wine representative of His blood which he sacrificed in the Garden of Gethsemane. The second major event was the identification that one of the Twelve Apostles was about to betray Him to the Jews.

After the dinner Jesus led the Apostles to the Garden of Gethsemane. Judas Iscariot at this point had left. He left eight of the Apostles near the entrance of the garden and took Peter, James and John further in. At a point in the trail He asked the other three Apostles to wait and pray for one hour with Him. He went a ways further and prayed to the Father. This is the point in time where he began His Atonement for our sins. He prayed that if it be possible not to perform the task then to have it be so. However, He knew that if it was the Father's will then He would do what was necessary. The sacrifice in the garden was so intense that blood came from every poor as He paid the price to redeem us from our sins. The Atonement allows all men to repent and to come unto Christ and receive His mercy.

After the sacrifice in the garden, Judas Iscariot appeared with the leaders of the Jews. Jesus boldly asks who they are looking for and Judas betrays the Son of Man with a kiss. Jesus goes with these men (even though this violates Jewish law). He is brought before the leaders of the Jews and is falsely accused and convicted. He is then brought to Pilot who sends Him to Herod. Herod does not even merit an answer from the Lord and is sent back to Pilate. Pilate cannot find anything that Jesus has done wrong, but because of the pressure of the Jews decides to allow the Jews to choose a man to set free. The Jews choose Barrabas and Jesus is sentenced to be flogged and crucified.

The Romans carried out the sentence mercilessly, taunting Jesus, placing a crown of thorns on His head and then making Him carry the cross beam to the hill called Golgotha. Here Jesus was lifted up on the Cross and the Crucifixion began. The Romans gave Him vinegar when thirsty. At length there came a time when even the Father could bear no more and hid Himself from the Savior. Not long after Jesus cried out "Father it is finished, into Thy hands I commend my spirit". His sacrifice complete, Jesus gave up His life.

He was buried in sepulcher provided by Joseph of Arimathea and the ritual was hurried because of the hour of the day. A huge stone was rolled in front of the tomb. Three days pass and on the first Easter, Jesus of Nazareth was resurrected. This was the victory over Death that had been promised. Because of His resurrection all mankind will be resurrected.

The second remarkable man is my grandfather. He passed away last September. Today would have been his 92 birthday. I have thought a lot about him this week. I miss him. There is no other way to describe it. Tears come to my eyes when I think about him. He was a man who taught me many lessons, showed me how to love a family and gave me love. I miss golfing and fishing with him. I miss talking sports, playing games and getting birthday cards. I miss him being here to hear about my family and the way his great-grandchildren are growing.

I remember him as the branch manager of our local bank. I remember him driving the boat on Lake Chautauqua and on Port Charlotte. I remember him doing yard work. I remember his laugh. I remember his smile.

Thanks to the first man, even Jesus Christ, all that I remember about my grandfather I will experience again. Because of the Atonement of our Lord our loved ones are not lost at death. Because of the resurrection we will all get to hold one another and be able to do things together. Because of the sacrifice in the Garden we can repent and live together as family again.

On this Easter I remember two remarkable men. Men who are linked to me and also allow me to be happy. I will see each of them, the one I've known in this life and the one who died so I might live.

Death of a Hamster

2010-03-16T10:02:00.002-07:00

Sunday night was a tragic time for our house. I was studying Physics (another story for another time) when I heard Levi start to cry. He called "Daaaaaaad" and I said what. He cried "Daaaaaad!". So I went into his room and asked "What's up?" He was distraught and through his tears cried "Ben's Dead!".

I was shocked. I moved over to the bed and checked on the hamster named Ben. Sure enough Ben wasn't moving. I opened the door to the cage and again no movement. I touched Ben (yes I washed my hand afterwards) and no movement. Ben was officially dead.

Levi was in major grief. You read about weeping and wailing in the scriptures. This was his behavior about losing his "best friend". So I talked with him and we made arrangements for Ben's funeral service for the next day. Part of the preparation was to create a headstone for Ben.

I always have some wood around so I found some thin panelling and cut out a head stone for Ben. Levi and I then sat down and decided what to write. We decided on the following:

"R.I.P. Here lies my friend Ben. Nov 2008 - Mar 14th 2010"

Levi then wrote in the corner of the headstone "I love you Ben by Levi". It took a long time for Levi to go to sleep. He was traumatized to say the least. We held the service the next day. Levi misses Ben and I'm sure it will take a while for him to get over his grief.

Of Goals and Savings

2010-03-12T14:54:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was a momentous occasion for my oldest daughter. You see we've been paying our kids for the work they do around the house. Each child has the following responsibilities (note this is a partial list):

Clean Room
Morning Chore
Clean Zone (typically a room or area)
Homework
Saturday Only - Deep Clean Zone (vacuum, dust, etc)

For every thing they do points are awarded. At the end of the week we tally up the points and divide by 100 to determine how much money they've earned. We encourage saving but also allow our children to spend their money on things they want/need (within reason of course). The boys tend to spend their money quickly while Ellie has been saving for something special. Yesterday she was able to get what she wanted and achieved her goal.

What did she want? An iPod Touch. She earned the money to get an 8GB iPod Touch. I can't tell you how excited she was to get this. You could tell that she was so excited to see her savings plan pay off. Of course there was the setup time once the iPod Touch got home, but she was very happy to be able to use it.

We have put her music on it as well as some games and the scriptures. I'm sure there will be tons more we put on the iPod for her as well as teach her to use some of the built in tools that are available. Of course we have also put in some restrictions. For instance I have not set up the WiFi on her iPod so she doesn't have access to the internet.

I should also mention that Sam didn't spend his money right away (just thought about this so I'm amending the entry). Sam did save enough money to buy a Nintendo DS. His brother and sister got one for Christmas and Sam at that time didn't want one. However he decided a couple of weeks after Christmas that he wanted one and so he started saving too.

Hopefully this can be a trend for my children. The ability to set goals and achieve them. Also the ability to save money and not spend it as soon as they earn it. Valuable lessons that will serve them well as they get older.

A Magical Season

2010-03-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was the final game for my son's U6 Winter soccer season. Each season I have two goals. One I let everybody in on and one I try to achieve without stating it. The one I let everybody in on is that the kids have as much fun as possible. In fact I tell the kids that the first rule of soccer is to have fun. If you're not having fun then it is a struggle to play. It's great to see them have fun and enjoy this game that I love.

The second goal is trying to get every kid at least one goal. I have now coached five seasons. The first four I did not reach my goal. I have come close where only one or two of my players did not score. That changed this last season. Going into the final game I had one player who had not scored.

Now over the course of the two years I've been coaching, I know which teams are good and which teams we are going to kill. Based on that I can put out a lineup of really good and good players that will make the game fun for all.

The final game I knew was going to be a rout. I also knew that there would be a good chance for this last player to score and my secret goal to be achieved. We played through 3 quarters and this player had a couple of chances. I was getting worried. In the last quarter I had him out there playing with two really good players and another player who had only one goal this season. The quarter was about 1/2 over and he still hadn't scored. Then came the breakthrough. My son Sam was on the field and got the ball in a pile of players. The boy who hadn't scored yet was further up-field and I directed Sam to pass the ball. Sam did so and the boy received it in a good position. He dribbled once and shot. Honestly I thought it was going wide and he would have had another chance go by the wayside. To my great surprise and pleasure the ball however went into the corner of the net. I was beaming for this boy. It was really about him and not my goal. But it was a relief that every player on my team had the experience of scoring a goal.

I could mention a lot about this season (like going undefeated or how much the team learned about playing the game) but this one moment where I knew everyone on the team had scored was the best one. Scoring goals boosts the kids' confidence and I know that it also boosts their enjoyment of the game.

Tomorrow is our team party and I plan on divulging what my secret goal has been for each season. I will let all the parents know that I had this goal at the beginning of the season and that this was the first season where everyone scored. It definitely was a magical season and I'm grateful to have been a part of it.

Parenthood

2010-03-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

I was impressed with the new show Parenthood on NBC Tuesday night. I was a little leary about watching the show from the previews thinking it was going to be some kind of dramedy (you know comedy and drama). However my wife and I sat down (she was reading a book) and watched it. If you saw my last post you know that we have an autistic son. The premier of Parenthood struck us with the following scene:

One of the sons is in school and trying to make paper hearts. The son is wearing a bandana and a pirate shirt. As he is cutting the hearts out with scissors, he keeps making mistakes. When the mistake occurs he crumples up the paper and then sits on it. After a few of these another kid in the classroom calls his name and say "Save some paper for us!". The son ignores him. Eventually this boy comes over and tries to take away some of the paper. Meanwhile the rest of the class is snickering. When the boy takes the paper away from the son he loses it. In a fit of rage he goes after the boy and eventually bites him. The teacher physically removes the son from the classroom.

Later we see the parents in the Principal's office where it is recommended that they see an educational specialist with their son. Of course the parents are defensive. I mean who wouldn't be? But being good parents they agree to have their son evaluated.

Fast forward to a scene with the Father gets a phone call from his wife and is asked to meet her in a plaza. She has taken the son to the specialist and a conversation ensues where she is explaining the findings and the Father is in denial. At the end of the conversation however the Father realizes that the wife is serious and understands that his boy will need help.

Fast forward again to school. The son has forgotten something and the dad drops it off to him. As the two are conversing another boy comes by and says "Hi!". The son doesn't respond. The dad points out to him that it might be rude not to say "Hi!" back. The son doesn't respond and turns to walk away. The Dad says "I Love You" with no response. You see the recognition on the dad's face.

Fast forward again to a performance by the son's cousin. The son begins to have an episode and the dad takes him outside. Outside the boy stands on the end of a bench and jumps into a puddle of water over and over again. Eventually the grandfather comes out and tries to persuade the father and son to come back in for the performance. The father explains that he can't and the grandfather says of course he can, The father then tells his dad (the grandfather) that there is something wrong with his son and that he will need the grandfather's help. The grandfather agrees as recognition dawns on him.

One more fast forward. But first I have to go back. There was an incident early on in the episode where the son is playing baseball and his dad the coach has an issue with a call. The dad gets very upset and is ejected. The son tells his parents he doesn't want to play anymore. OK, back to fast forwarding. The family is about to have lunch when the son comes out and says "Dad, what about the baseball game?". The father asks "I thought you didn't want to play baseball anymore?". The son says he does. There is a brief pause and then the grandfather says "Let's go" and starts directing the family to get the items needed and to get into the car. At the end of the episode you see family rooting on the son and then the dad walking up to the game (he's not allowed to be there because of the earlier incident). He's watching from the outside as his son is batting. The last thing you hear is the bat striking the ball, the crowd screaming and the dad smiling.

This is a brave arc for a television show to take. Having gone through some of the things depicted in this episode it was hard keeping the tears from flowing. We went through a similar process. Some denial and yet knowing there was something not quite right with our son. We got the diagnosis and it was hard to accept. We have had times where Levi won't say "I love you" to us for long periods of time. There are times when he goes into a rage and we have to find different ways to calm him down. There are times when he obsesses and we have to deal with it in an appropriate manner for him.

All in all, I'm hoping that this show survives if not for any other reason than to expose more people to not only autism, but the needs of children who have special needs. As I said in my last post education is the key and hopefully the writers of Parenthood can provide education to others.

Action for Autism

2010-03-02T09:49:00.002-07:00

Today is the 3rd annual Action for Autism day on KTAR in Arizona. As a father of an autistic child I'm thankful that this is being done. It is estimated that 1 in 100 children in AZ has some form of Autism (on the Asperger scale). If you've read my blog you know that our oldest has been diagnosed with Autism.

There is no known cause, although there are theories. There is no known cure, however there are some medicines that can help. Early detection is the key to helping these children become productive members of our society. There is progress in being able to detect Autism at earlier ages. However, the big key is EDUCATION. When I say education I'm talking about educating the following people:

Parents - to recognize the signs of Autism
Family and Friends - to understand that autistic people are different and to be careful about what is said or commented on
Teachers - to understand the needs of an autistic child
Others - to know that there may be something special about the child who is having a tantrum
Doctors - to recognize the signs and listen to the parents of these children when they explain that "something just isn't right"

I ask that if you get a chance go to KTAR and listen to the live stream to hear some of the stories of kids with autism and how it has affected them and their families. If you feel the need, please donate. The donations benefit the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SAARC) who are one of the leading autism research centers around.

This is a great event every year, and is greatly appreciated by those of us who have children or who have been affected by Autism.

A Day to Teach

2010-01-18T13:53:00.002-07:00

One love
One blood
One life
You got to do what you should
One life
With each other
Sisters
Brothers
One life
But we're not the same
We get to
Carry each other
One - U2

Today is a day to teach. To teach my children about the need to have everyone treated equally. A day to teach history's lessons as they pertain to civil rights. The first thing we did was have the children watch a short movie about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. Later we will discuss Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Part of that speech is:

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a desert state, sweltering with the heat of injustice and oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

My family is made up of a cornucopia of races. I have a daughter who is part Hispanic, one who is full Black (African American), and one who is mainly Polynesian, part Asian, part Black, and part Hispanic. Both boys are full Caucasian so we seem to have hit most races. My children are growing up knowing that the color of skin makes no difference about a person. They are learning to love all people because they love each other.

We are taking this day to help them understand the struggles of different peoples to be treated fairly and equally. Our hope is that this teaching instills in them a love of all men, regardless of the color of their skin.

As for myself, I cannot hear or read the words of Dr. King's speech without emotion welling up inside of me. I cannot imagine the kind of courage it took for him to do the things he did. It is because of that courage that our country was changed. That courage I can use to inspire me to instill in my children a love for everyone. Also to teach them that everyone must be treated equally.

In the words of Brad Paisley's song:

I had a friend in school,
Running-back on a football team,
They burned a cross in his front yard
For asking out the home-coming queen.

I thought about him today,
Everybody who's seen what he's seen,
From a woman on a bus
To a man with a dream.

Hey...
Wake up Martin Luther.
Welcome to the future.
Hey...
Glory glory hallelujah.
Welcome to the future.
Welcome to the Future

My dream is that my children will be part of the fulfilling of Dr. King's dream. As the Declaration of Independence says "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal". May all men be created and treated equal is what this day is all about.

Breaking the Habit

2010-01-05T15:44:00.001-07:00

So today is day one of the "No More Cola" plan. You see I made the New Year's resolution to quit caffeinated soda. There are several reasons behind the decision. Of course it's not easy to do. I didn't go "Cold Turkey" on Jan 1. Instead of my regular 4 or 6 cans I drank only 2 and kept myself to that number through yesterday. Last night Cheryl and I were talking before bed and both of us decided it was time to get off the wagon.

My biggest problem is craving the flavor of Cola. It seems to be the thing that gets me coming back. So today I made a pitcher of Crystal Light and have not had one Cola. I also took one Excedrin Migraine pill. It's a preventative measure against the headache that would have come if I had just not drank a Cola all day.

So far so good. No headache, cravings replaced by Crystal Light. I'm sure this can be done and it will probably help me as I also start up my exercise routine in earnest again. It will also get me back to the fluids I grew up on: water and milk. That has to be healthy right?

It's going to take a couple more weeks to be completely free (hopefully less but I'm being realistic here). So Crystal Light, water and milk will become some of my new best friends. It's going to happen and I'm going to be better off because of it.

Building Bookshelves

2009-12-30T09:25:00.005-07:00

Some of you might remember that I built a window seat earlier this year. Yesterday it was time to build some bookshelves in the same room. Here's how the finished product turned out.

The right side:

And the left side:

So here is the step by step process for completing the bookshelves:

1. Go to Home Depot and get the side panels cut and the brace boards
2. Put up the panels that go against the wall and tack them in
3. Measure the width of the shelves
4. Go to Home Depot and get the shelves cut
5. Put in bottom shelf and first shelf braces
6. Tack other side panel to bottom shelf and first shelf braces
7. Go to Home Depot and get Liquid Nails for the outside panel braces
8. Put the top shelf braces on and tack the outside panel to it
9. Put the top shelf on
10. Put the rest of the braces on and tack the outside panel to them
11. Put the shelves in
12. Go to Home Depot and get finish nails for the nail gun to tack the shelves to the braces
13. Make comments about having your own personal parking space at Home Depot as their most frequent shopper.
14. Blog about it so all your friends can make fun of all the trips to Home Depot

So there you have bookshelves in 14 easy steps. I estimate that our study is now 70% complete. Next up? Another shelf, more lights and endless trips to Home Depot (I think I get a free round trip ticket to the Home Depot Center in California if I make 50 more round trips).

The True Meaning of Christmas

2009-12-24T10:04:00.002-07:00

Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about? - Charlie Brown

One of the greatest questions of all time was asked by Charlie Brown in the animated special "Merry Christmas Charlie Brown". Over the years it seems that we have lost our ability to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Linus answers Charlie Brown's question:

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. That's what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown. - Linus

Today is the Christmas Eve. The celebration of that night when the angel proclaimed tidings of great joy. The Earth had been waiting for the time of the Messiah and at last it was to happen. The Savior of the world would be born and he would live a perfect life. At the end he would sacrifice Himself so that all mankind might live with Him and His Father again. An unparalleled 33 years would follow where the world changed.

The teachings of the Savior and the gospel set forth inspire millions of people today. As we look around this Christmas my hope is that we can find our Christianity and display it. It can be something simple such as smiling at someone. It can be donating time and/or money to a worthy cause. It can be refraining from yelling at the guy who just cut you off in traffic.

My family will take time tonight to read the story of the birth of Jesus. We will reflect on His life. We will comment on what we can do to lead our lives better. We will talk about what it means to be Christian and how we can be examples of the life Jesus led.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope that as you celebrate this time that His life will touch you and that you may find some measure of peace on Earth.

Lest We Forget

2009-12-16T12:29:00.002-07:00

On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here.
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.

Citizen Soldiers - 3 Doors Down

I was in the airport yesterday returning home from a business trip. Ahead of me was a young man dressed in fatigues, on his way to California. I don't know if he was on his way to a base or home for the holidays. Frankly that doesn't matter. What hit me though was the man in front of him walking with his daughter. As we got off the moving walkway the man turned extended his hand and thanked the young man for serving. This caused a bunch of thoughts to go through my head during this holiday season.

As you've probably guessed I'm a Christian. Christmas is the time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ who Christians believe is the Savior of the world. His birth started a life of sacrifice where He ultimately gave His life for all of us so we could live.

At this time of year however I feel it is important to recognize those who also serve by giving their lives for us so that we can live our lives. We are extremely blessed in this country and it's in great part due to those men and women who served and are serving their country. My family has a history of service in the military. Currently one of Cheryl's cousins is serving. We also have a neighbor whose son is serving.

One of the things we have taught our children is that it is important to recognize these individuals and do what we can for them. Every prayer offered by our children remembers Steve and Brady. The prayers ask that they be watched over as they serve in dangerous areas. Hopefully, my children will always remember the men and women who serve. I love the cartoons that appear around Veterans and Memorial day that state "Lest we Forget". Forgetting would be a way of diminishing the greatness of our nation.

The sacrifice offered on our behalf by our soldiers is something to celebrate along with everything else this holiday season. I ask each of you to take some time this season to remember those who have sacrificed for us and who are giving their time now to ensure that we may live our lives in freedom.

Song for a Winter's Night

2009-12-09T16:55:00.002-07:00

Back on the wagon again. Today's song is one by a favorite of mine Sarah McLachlan. Here are the lyrics:

The lamp is burnin' low upon my table top
The snow is softly fallin'
The air is still within the silence of my room
I hear your voice softly callin'

If I could only have you near
To breathe a sigh or two
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter's night with you

The smoke is rising in the shadows overhead
My glass is almost empty
I read again between the lines upon each page
The words of love you sent me

If I could know within my heart
That you were lonely too
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter's night with you

The fire is dying now, my lamp is growing dim
The shades of night are liftin'
The mornin' light steals across my windowpane
Where webs of snow are driftin'

If I could only have you near
To breathe a sigh or two
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter's night with you
And to be once again with with you
To be once again with with you

Sarah usually writes sad songs and this one is no exception. The song tugs at me as I think of family that are far away. There are times "I would be happy just to hold the hands I love" that live distant from me.

Make no mistake though how happy I am to be with my family and hold them in my arms. I know that one day the kids will be grown and move away. Then this song will have more meaning to me. Right now though I will enjoy the time I have with them and be happy that I get to hold the hands I love on every winter night.

Chickens

2009-12-08T13:50:00.003-07:00

I missed yesterday, but today I'm back. I'm not a big fan of the BCS in case you didn't know. And the announcement on Sunday of the Fiesta Bowl matchup between TCU and Boise State didn't help matters.

This will be the first time where a BCS bowl game will not include a team that is in a BCS conference. It sounds like the ultimate buster until you realize that no BCS conference champion will take on a non-BCS conference champion in a BCS or any other bowl game. For this I'm calling out the BCS as a bunch of chickens.

You see if TCU or Boise State were matched up against Cincinnati, or Ohio State, or Oregon you could get a real test to see if the non-BCS schools belong. But why would any of those schools want to play and risk losing to a highly ranked non-BCS school? Why would they take a chance that people would start to talk about including these other conferences (like the Mountain West or WAC) in the BCS picture? I mean it's only money that they would be losing. Oh yeah I forgot, the BCS is ALL about money. Silly me.

I hope that the TCU - Boise State game gets better ratings than the National Championship game. I doubt it, but I can revise my Christmas wish right? Could you imagine if the numbers come back and a game between two non-BCS schools got better ratings than the BCS National Championship? How cool would that be?

Alright enough dreaming. But still the BCS is a bunch of chickens for taking the easy way out of this. Let TCU play Cincinnati, and after the Big East champs get routed, let's talk about including all FBS Division I schools into the national championship picture.

I'll Be Home for Christmas

2009-12-06T20:12:00.002-07:00

Today's carol (OK maybe it's not technically a carol) is "I'll Be Home for Christmas". The lyrics are:

I am dreaming tonight of a place I love
Even more than I usually do
And although I know it's a long road back
I promise you

I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents on the tree

Christmas Eve will find you
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams

Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams

If only in my dreams

Being so far from my home, this song gets to me. When I hear it I can smell home. The wood burning furnace, the snow, the fields, the trees, everything I grew up with. I can smell what Granny's place was. The food, pies, roast, ham, vegetables, mashed potatoes. The joy of us cousins, the noise of the adults. The late nights where the kids played whatever and the adults played a modified version of Pinochle. Eggnog, Shrimp and a thousand other foods.

Today home is here in AZ. I love this time of year for the lights and the new smells. The joy of my kids and times of quiet that we get after about 8:30 at night. I love the excitement, the build-up to the big day. I love playing games, especially now that the kids are getting old enough to play better ones. Of course I love the food. There are new traditions and old. I'll be home for Christmas, and not only in my dreams because I'm with my family.

The Little Drummer Boy

2009-12-05T18:19:00.004-07:00

OK, I'm back on track. Today's carol is "The Little Drummer Boy". The lyrics are:

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
On my drum?

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
Me and my drum.

This is one of my favorite songs at this time of year. It tells the tale of a young man who was told a marvelous thing. A newborn king was close by and he was invited to see. This young man by all accounts was poor and probably had never seen anything regal in his life. Now he was invited to come and see this miracle. One problem though, everyone was bringing gifts and he had none. But that did not stop this lad from giving a gift. He had a drum with him and humbly asked if he might play a song for the king. The mother of this King gave her permission and so he began to play. What he played we are not told, but we are told he played his best for the King. At the end of the song the King smiled at him and his drum.

This tale is typical of all of us in this life. We have been invited to "come and see" the King. We have also been asked to bring a gift for Him.

As for myself, I am a poor boy too. I have no great gift that I can give my King. I do however have my time and talents. These I can give him. I can give him the best of my time and "play" my talents to there best. In this way I can give a gift that will cause Him to smile at me.

Luck of the Draw

2009-12-04T13:06:00.002-07:00

I am deviating from my plan again today. Maybe I should bail on the plan and just blog. Anyways, today the FIFA World Cup draw was announced. 32 National teams will vie for the coveted World Cup trophy starting next June in South Africa. Here are the first round groups:

A:South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, France

B:Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea, Greece

C:England, United States, Algeria, Slovenia

D:Germany, Australia, Serbia, Ghana

E:Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon

F:Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia

G:Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Coast, Portugal

H:Spain, Switzerland, Honduras, Chile

Overall it looks like a good draw. But let me comment on each group.

Group A

The host nation always gets in the first group and a guarantee to play in the first game. Unfortunately this year's host doesn't have a very strong team (World wise). This should mean that the other three teams will be battling to get to the second round. That is until you realize that no host nation has EVER failed to advance. If that holds true then this is a "Group of Death". Les Bleus (France for those that don't know) recent string of luck (can you say no call handball Thierry Henry?) continued by being drawn into this group. Any other group and it would be almost certain they would not move on. As it stands they have a chance. Prediction: Mexico and South Africa to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group B

Argentina should advance fairly easily in this group. The tricky part is picking the runner-up. Nigeria has always played well at the WC. South Korea made a great run in 2002. Greece won the European championship not too long ago. Prediction: Argentina and South Korea to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group C

The most intriguing group if you are a US fan. The first group game pits the Brits against the Yanks. It should be a great game. I would give a slight edge to the US because they are familiar with the South African environment. However, this game could go either way, so I'm predicting a draw. The other two teams in the group had to win playoffs to get to the WC. I don't see them as being too tough, but you can't overlook them either. Prediction: US and England to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group D

Germany advances easily in this group. Let's not count out the Aussies and the Ghanians however. Both have shown strength and could put up resistance. Serbia is done before the first whistle. Prediction: Germany and Ghana (sorry Aussies) to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group E

This one could be a toss-up. I think the Netherlands will be too strong for any of the other teams, however this one isn't as easy to call. Of the other teams Japan and Cameroon should be the strongest, yet the Danes played well in qualifying and won their group. Prediction: Netherlands and Cameroon to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group F

This should be a no-brainer for Italy to advance. Paraguay should take second, but it's hard to count out Slovakia. New Zealand might be a spoiler, but I doubt it. Prediction: Italy and Paraguay to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group G

Brazil and Portugal need I say more? OK, I will. It's North Korea's first WC since 1966 when they stunned the Portuguese. Won't happen this time. The Ivory Coast with Drogba could pose problems and will likely get a win and a draw but it won't be enough. Prediction: Brazil and Portugal to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Group H

Spain looks like a shoe-in for this group. Picking a second place team is a toss-up. To me (and I admit I'm biased) I see Chile advancing. The Swiss play well so it could be that they take second. Honduras are tenacious and could produce a surprise 3rd CONCACAF team in the second round, but I doubt it. Prediction: Spain and Chile to advance as Winner and Runner-Up

Groups of Death

I don't think there is a classic "Group of Death" in the tournament. Groups A, E, and H could become such after the first games are played. Historically one can look at groups and determine a Group of Death (meaning a good team will not advance to the second round). This yea the draw seems to have played out so that no group can be automatically classified as such.

Finals Prediction

My final four for this WC are Brazil, Italy, Spain and England. I have Brazil beating Italy and Spain beating England (on penalties of course). Brazil will lose to Spain and the Spaniards will lift the cup at the end of the day. Fernando Torres will be crowned player of the tournament although he will finish second to Kaka for the golden boot.

There you have it. In six months all of this will be wrong and if not can someone please pick me up off the floor?

My Christmas Sports Wish

2009-12-03T10:23:00.001-07:00

NOTE: I am deviating from my blog plan today

I have a Christmas wish. Unfortunately I need the wish to come true before Christmas. You see I have a specific wish just to piss off the BCS. Here is my wish:

I wish that Texas loses to Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship game

You see we already know that either Florida or Alabama will lose in the SEC title game. I'm hoping it's Alabama because I think they are the weaker of the two teams. TCU is ranked 4th currently in the BCS standings even though they are a non-BCS school. Don't ask me to explain how some schools in the FBS are BCS schools and some are not. It is in all reality STUPID! However money talks and this is what we have. Anyways, I digress.

Now if Texas loses to Nebraska then Texas should drop below TCU in the BCS standings. The loser of Florida and Alabama should also drop below TCU. This would mean that TCU would be ranked #2 in the BCS and automatically play in the BCS championship game (the winner of Florida vs Alabama would be #1).

Now, I'm not above a conspiracy theory here. So here's a scenario that could change this. If Cincinnati beats Pittsburgh in the Big East championship game there is a possibility it could vault TCU. It shouldn't happen, but hey we are talking about significant money here. Also, it is entirely possible that a one-loss Alabama or Texas could still remain above TCU. Again money talks and formulas can be "tweaked" to get a "satisfactory" result. So here the best scenario is that both Texas and Cincinnati lose this week.

If TCU were to play in the National Championship game it would be the ultimate BCS buster. It would of necessity drive the BCS to revamp their formula because now someone has busted their championship game. I think it would take them about all of a month to come up with new rules that would prevent a non-BCS team from playing for a national championship.

So Santa if you're listening, be good to the non-BCS schools and bring us a Texas loss this week.

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear

2009-12-02T12:09:00.003-07:00

Today I’m going to discuss the carol “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear”. The Lyrics are:

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, goodwill to men
From heavens all gracious King!"
The world in solemn stillness lay
To hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come,
With peaceful wings unfurled;
And still their heavenly music floats
O'er all the weary world:
Above its sad and lowly plains
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever o'er its Babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.

O ye beneath life's crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow;
Look now, for glad and golden hours
Come swiftly on the wing;
Oh rest beside the weary road
And hear the angels sing.

For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophets seen of old,
When with the ever-circling years
Shall come the time foretold,
When the new heaven and earth shall own
The Prince of Peace, their King,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.

The carol is about the visit of the angels to the shepherds in the field. The angels were sent to declare tidings of great joy unto all people. The shepherds were then instructed to go to the City of David (Bethlehem). They went in haste to see this thing that was declared unto them and were able to praise the name of God for seeing the Messiah.

The third verse invites all of us to stop for a moment no matter where we are in life and listen. When we listen we can hear the angels sing. The tidings of great joy are there for us to hear and follow if we will but listen.

The fourth verse talks about the whole world sending back the song the angels sing. The song? It is this:

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men

May we all learn to sing the song the angels sung of Christ’s birth.

Starting the Holiday Season

2009-12-01T08:36:00.001-07:00

It's the holiday season and I've decided to blog every day until Christmas (and then see where it goes). Now these blog entries are going to deal with Christmas. I know there are a lot of Holidays right now and that each religion has their Holy days. However, I'm going to focus on Christmas and the carols that come with it. Up today is "O Little Town of Bethlehem". Here are the lyrics:

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight

For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love
O morning stars together
Proclaim the holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And Peace to men on earth

How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven.
No ear may his His coming,
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him still,
The dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem
Descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin and enter in
Be born to us today
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel

Bethlehem was prophesied to be the birthplace of the Messiah. As we read in Matthew 2:3-6:

3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,
6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

Now if we examine the lyrics we see why this is a favorite carol. The first verse discusses the quiet solitude of Bethlehem. It was not (as far as I can tell) a major city in Judea. However it is here that Jesus was born. The second verse talks about how the angels kept watch and the morning stars proclaimed His birth. The third verse talks about the gift given to man by the birth of the Savior. In John 3:16 we read:

16 ¶ For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

The ending of the third verse is poignant. "Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in." This is the gift given to us, that He may enter our lives and bring us out of sin if we will follow Him and keep His commandments.

The fourth verse is probably not as well known. At least I can't recall hearing it in the recordings of this song. However, I feel that this is a prayer each of us who believe that Jesus is the Christ should have in our hearts. To willingly invite Him in to change us and become like him is our goal in life.

My plan is to each day take a Christmas carol and do a similar analysis.

I'm Feeling a Little Cryptic

2009-11-18T15:16:00.002-07:00

Moroni 10
November 18
EWOX YN NVKLRY EEAS ULY BRGNV GLLY EST UO NOGTLB VHG OG GMIGTVG VRLFVB HIST WAVR MAX ULY UI

So I just finished reading an interesting book called Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson. It deals with World War II and a big chunk of the book deals with encrypting and decrypting messages. Above you see an encrypted message. The message is encrypted with an algorithm of my making (see below to get the decrypted message). Anyways, the book obviously got me thinking about encryption and the importance of secrecy.

It seems today that we let our secrets out more and more. With the proliferation of social networks, blogs, discussion forums, comments on articles, etc we have the opportunity to share our lives in ways our parents never did. Does it seem odd that the more we crave privacy, the more we share on the web? Everywhere you turn you see ads that claim to "protect your identity". However, if we didn't share so much on the web would we need said protection? I get it that buying things online exposes us to ID theft. However most (if not all) reputable sites take the appropriate protections to ensure safety.

Anyways, back to the book. It's an interesting piece of fiction with a view on the war that involves not so much the gory details of a battlefield as it does the battle of minds. The book moves along at a good pace. It has several twists and yet has several parts that are "foreseeable". There were times where I figured out what was going to happen and then there were times where I was surprised.

The only downside to the book was the ending. It felt rushed. Of course after 1100+ pages I guess the ending had to occur this way. I did enjoy the book and am tempted to get another Neal Stephenson novel.

Oh yeah, in case you were wondering here is the decrypted message:

If you can read this before getting to the bottom of the blog entry you have broken my code

Everything you need to break my encryption code is contained in the original message. If you are geeky (and brave enough) give it a try with this one:

Jacob 7
November 18
FLJGEXMSEXGEKMV CUMV CQR KCNMGY TTXF DMB DP CRXFQTK EQTR GSJW FG TPTF

So I Turned 40

2009-11-10T10:49:00.002-07:00

Hey glory, glory, hallelujah
Welcome to the future
- Brad Paisley

Yesterday was a milestone birthday for me. Yes I turned the big 4-0. There was screaming in the aisles, panic in the streets and even some crying. As I look back on the 40 years of my existence I realize that this world has come a long way. So here are the things that stick out in my memory of the last 40 years:

Entertainment

The world of entertainment has come a long way. Some ways have been good, other ways not so good. For instance, the first TV I remember was Black and White and didn't have a remote control. We then moved to a color TV. Then it wasn't good enough to just get over the air television. A little something called Satellite TV started (even though we didn't have it). The next move was cable TV. How many channels? How could we possibly watch them all? We've gone from Analog to Digital signals to High Definition and who knows what they will think of next. Video games went from huge machines in an arcade to little handheld devices. Computers went from mainframes to PCs. I could go on and on and on, what with the web and email, video conferencing, blogging, social media, etc.

Communications

Communications have evolved as well. Growing up we had what was called a party line. That's where two houses share the same physical connection but have different phone numbers. So you had to be careful when you picked up the phone so that you didn't hear the neighbors conversations. Of course the phones started as Rotary dials (how many of you have even seen a rotary dial phone?). Now they are moved to push button and are no longer required to be tethered to a wall outlet. But that wasn't good enough. Satellite phones and cellular phones became prominent and now we have Smart Phones that let us combine computer and communications.

Fashion

Do I even have to mention any of this? Let's just think about it. The 70's. Enough said. The 80's. Enough said. The 90's? Not too bad. The 00's? Well if the 70's and 80's have made comebacks in this decade you can imagine what my children will say when they write their blog entry (if it's even called that) when they turn 40.

Science Fiction

Ok, I admit it, I'm a geek. No surprise there. If you look at the Science Fiction that has been written there have been some great things put out. Four TV sequels to Star Trek (1 at least that was popular). Stargate, Dune (in movie form), Sanctuary, Farscape, V, and we could go on and on. I've read a ton of books, some better than others. Overall I think that Science Fiction has come a long way.

Sesame Street

Yes Sesame Street and I are the same age. Of course if you ask anyone there are times when I'm just like some of the characters. I mean how can I not be goofy like Bert and Ernie? Or try to convince others that I have a big friend like Big Bird (Mr Snufalafogus for those who don't know) that no one else has seen? I've been hungry like Cookie Monster, as grouchy as Oscar, and as zany as Grover.

History

From an historical perspective there was a lot that has gone on. A man on the moon happened the year I was born. The Iran Hostage situation. The Gas shortage in the 70's. The Cold War coming to a close and the Berlin Wall being brought down. The fall of Apartheid in South Africa. The First Gulf War. 9/11 a day that changed our thinking. The first African American president of the United States was elected. Democracy has been given to peoples who never thought they would have it. For example, I was there when Chile held their first elections after Pinochet decided to step down.

The Big Question

No one has asked me but I think it has to be addressed. "Am I where I thought I would be at 40?". I don't think I can answer this one as I never put down on paper (electronic or otherwise) where I wanted to be when I turned 40. Let's just take a look at where I'm at. One: I have the most wonderful wife in the whole world (and I'm not just saying that because I got an iPod Touch for my birthday). Two: I have five wonderful (although sometimes challenging) children who love me as fiercely as I love them. Three: I live in a wonderful area (except in July and August when it feels like we live in Hades) with a beautiful home and great neighbors. Four: I have a stable job that provides for my family and allows me to keep life in balance. Five: I'm healthy (even if today I'm coughing and feverish). So overall I would have to say that I am exactly where I want to be and have no regrets.

Finally, if the next 40 years are like the previous 40 years I'm going to be one happy 80 year old man.

The Game in US

2009-11-08T14:28:00.002-07:00

The people who are trying to win the bid for the 2018 FIFA World Cup are holding a contest. They have asked for people to write in and share how the game is in each of us. I thought I would share my entry with everyone. Here it is:

I coach a team of 5 and 6 year olds in their second year of soccer. The game is just barely becoming part of them. They are learning the basics; dribbling, shooting and being part of the team. Most importantly they are learning to have fun while playing soccer. The World cup is a way for these children (who will be 14 -16 in 2018) to increase the game that is in them, the game I am putting in them through coaching.

The kids I coach are taught that the first rule of soccer is to have fun. If you’re not having fun while playing, the game can’t be in you. To see the kids smiling and enjoying the game shows me that it is in them. Soccer is also in me. I have played it since I was seven. I have always been enamored with the game. I’m one of the few who espoused soccer when there wasn’t a professional league here.

I had the opportunity to take my Father and my oldest son to the USA – Mexico match a couple of years ago in Phoenix. My son was 6 at that time. We were sitting in what most would call hostile territory. It didn’t matter. My son was into the game. He was chanting with the fans. The game was in him that night. Now as my second son begins his playing career of soccer, the beautiful game is growing in him. This is how the game grows in them. I have no idea where my son’s playing career will end up, but this much I know; the game is in him now and will be for life.

The World Cup in 1994 changed the view of soccer in the states. It can do it again in 2018.

You see I'm a little bit passionate about soccer. But I know that just like other sports, the only way the next generation can gain a love of the game is by helping them to learn it. That's the reason I'm coaching my 2nd son's team. They are playing U6 (5 and 6 year olds to those of you who don't know). It is at this age that kids begin to learn to love or not to love certain sports. So I have entered the contest. Do I think I will win it? Of course not. But hey at least they can read what I feel to be the most important part of getting the game in us.

Concert of a Lifetime

2009-10-21T08:22:00.006-07:00

And you know its time to go
Through the sleet and driving snow
Across the fields of mourning
Light in the distance U2 A Sort of Homecoming

Last night was the U2 concert here in Phoenix. My wife surprised me on Monday night as so:

U2 has been my favorite band since, well since I was old enough to have a favorite band. I guess you could say that their music has clicked with me. And even though I have been a fan forever, I haven't (until last night) attended a concert. I should warn you that if you are going to the concert there are spoilers ahead so be aware that you might get information you would rather see first.

First off, traffic and parking were HORRENDOUS! Traffic I can understand, it's not very smooth on the West side of Phoenix and it took us 2 hours to get to the exit where the stadium was. It took us another 45 minutes to go the last 3/4 mile and then to get in and park. I swear they hired the local elementary school crossing guards to do parking. Several sections of the lot were closed off making the parking even more troublesome. Definitely not worth the $20 fee to park. It also meant that we missed the opening act which was Black Eyed Peas. Now I wasn't that bothered with missing them, but it would have been nice to feed on the energy they have before U2 took the stage.

The stage cost $40 Million (yes Million) to create. Worth every penny if you ask me. There is a screen that shows the band playing and other effects throughout the concert. The coolest thing about the screen is that it is really multiple screens that can be separated and re-integrated. Our eyes are such good integrators that at one point I did a double take because I hadn't realized that the screen had come back together again.

Here is a (not so good) picture of the screen separated:

As for the music, well it IS U2. Granted I didn't know all the lyrics to all the songs (something about having a family and being really busy) but I did remember most of them. The funniest looks I got at the concert is when I knew the lyrics to The Unforgettable Fire. I was surprised that this song would be chosen, but I was very happy as I love that song.

Overall it was a good mix of old and new songs. Many favorites with only a couple of albums not being represented. Probably my favorite songs of the night were:

I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
One
Sunday Bloody Sunday

Now of course it wouldn't be a U2 concert if there weren't a few messages in it. Tonight's message was one of Peace and MLK was dedicated to the Burmese opposition political leader Aung San Suu Kyi. MLK is another of my favorites and a song I sang to my children while rocking them at night. A fitting tribute to someone who is a political prisoner.

There were 2 "encores". The first started with the Reverend Desmond Tutu giving a message about all of us being one. Of course the band came back and played One. A great rendition. The second encore began with an Alien cartoon character delivering a similar One message. The band returned with a "space-like" microphone.

The ending of the concert was weird. I mean it didn't have the same kind of "good-night" ending I am used to at concerts. However, there was nothing wrong with the ending. I left the concert moved which is why U2 is my favorite band. The music has a message and can be applied to several life situations. Matter of fact it was the music of U2 that helped me during a time of depression when I was a teenager. So check one off the bucket list. Hard to beat this birthday gift. I had the best time and will definitely remember this concert.

Here are some more pictures I took during the concert. They're not great quality, but hey that's not the point :)

Hockey In the Desert

2009-09-27T20:39:00.002-07:00

You may have seen the news that Wayne Gretzky resigned as coach of the Phoenix Coyotes this week. It was the end of an experiment. Now I'm not as much of an avid follower of the Coyotes as AZJazzyJ is of the Diamondbacks, however I follow them close enough to understand that this was probably a good thing.

In case you are unaware, the Coyotes are going through bankruptcy proceedings. There are two bidders to buy the club, The NHL and Jim Balsillie (you know the Blackberry guy). The NHL wants the Coyotes to stay in Phoenix. Balsillie favors moving the team to Hamilton Ontario. This has produced a long drawn out battle that has yet to be decided. Anyways back to Gretzky.

If you have heard of hockey at all you have heard of "The Great One". Gretzky is the best player to have ever laced them up. The debate (as some would say) is settled. He is the all-time leading goal scorer and produced several Stanley Cup championships. He had a feel for the game that others could only hope to attain. Herein is why I believe that Gretzky failed as a coach.

You see in every athlete there are two parts to the game. The talents you are born with and the things that you learn. You have to have both in order to become great. Gretzky was one of those rare athletes (similar to Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and Roger Federer) that could combine his natural talent with his learning to produce greatness.

As a coach it is your responsibility to teach your players to perform; to create as it were a system by which they can play. A lot of that teaching is from what you have learned either as a player or through experience as coaching. This is your job. However the one thing that you can't (at least that I have seen) teach is your instincts and natural talent. It just can't be done.

Wayne Gretzky, I believe, tried to teach what came naturally to him and couldn't do it. There could be several reasons for this. Among them:

The talent wasn't there to execute
Gretzky's instincts are still light years beyond today's player
His team did not grasp that by playing the way he taught it would make them better

This makes it difficult to produce a winning team. Gretzky's coaching record bares this out. It doesn't help also that the team is losing money and can't afford to bring in more talent to help the core group. Shane Doan is a great player, but without a supporting cast (as Gretzky had with Messier for example) teams can neutralize him.

I'm not making an excuse for Gretzky. His system did not work with the Coyotes. It was time for a change. Hopefully Wayne will get the chance to teach again and hopefully he has learned that some things cannot be taught. If so, then he stands a good chance for success. The Coyotes will move along without him.

Tax the Wealthy

2009-09-21T09:40:00.001-07:00

Yes I said it, tax the wealthy! But it's not what you think. You see I got to thinking after BYU got trounced by Florida State that Florida State could still play for the BCS championship if they get a little help. BYU on the other hand has no chance at the championship game or even a BCS game because of this one loss.

My proposal is to borrow the philosophy of the Obama administration for the FBS. You see not every team that is in the FBS is in the BCS and therefore they don't have a chance to play in a BCS bowl unless a ton of things go right (that's why they call them BCS busters). So the plan is to "tax the wealthy". In this system the BCS schools make the most and need to pay their fair share, while the other schools belong to the middle-class and need help to get up to the level of the BCS schools.

My plan is to have the NCAA tax the BCS schools at 30% at the end of the college football season. The tax is on every dollar that the BCS football program brings in (notice NOT profit). The money is put into a pool that will be evenly distributed to the non-BCS FBS schools. This way the non-BCS schools will have more money and will be able to compete better with the BCS. Eventually everyone will be equal and all schools in the FBS will be eligible for the BCS championship without having to jump through (over, around, etc) the major hoops that now stand in their way.

I mean if the President of the US believes that distributing the wealth will bring everyone up why should we not apply that to college football? So I say it's time to tax the wealthy and compensate those middle-class FBS teams that are put down by the elite BCS teams.

Of course a football playoff might actually be less expensive and allow teams to settle the issues on the field, but hey that's capitalism and I think that's a four letter word now.

Geeky

2009-09-14T12:47:00.002-07:00

So the other day on Plurk there was an entry called "Lame Bumper Sticker: Shai-Hulud is my co-pilot". Of course being an avid fan of Dune I wanted one. Well I started thinking and have come up with a few Dune Bumper Stickers for our time. . .

On Global Warming

Don't blame me! I'm wearing a Stillsuit!

On Honor Students

My Fremen son just beat up your Imperial Sardaukar

On Alternate Vehicles

My other car is a 40 meter Sandworm

And finally:

On the 2012 Election

Atreides - Stilgar 2012

I think it's safe to say that my Geek card will not be revoked.

A Father-Son Conversation

2009-09-09T09:12:00.001-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to take my oldest son out and get a Halloween decoration he wanted. Being high-functioning autistic he was obsessed with this decoration. I didn't imagine that we would have the conversation that we did when we set out.

After we had bought the decoration we started out at home. Levi started discussing about when we die how we will come back to life. So we got into the whole discussion about resurrection. I explained to Levi that Jesus was resurrected and because He was resurrected we all get to be resurrected. It's a free gift given to us by Him. I then went on to explain how that after we are resurrected we get to sit down with Jesus and review our life. If we have done good and repented for the things that we did wrong and lived our lives as Jesus wants us to then we get to live with Him and God. Now in my religion that place is called the Celestial Kingdom. If you didn't quite live up to Jesus teachings (remember I'm explaining this to an eight year old) then you would live in the Terrestrial Kingdom. If you decided not to follow Jesus (you are always given a chance to accept Him) then you would be assigned to the Telestial Kingdom.

After my explanation, my son looks at me and says "I believe in Jesus Dad." That made me happy. You see we have always taught Levi what we believe but we haven't forced anything on him. We have always told him that he needs to make up his own mind when it comes to the church. So to hear him say he believes in Jesus is a good thing to me.

This time has taught me as well. That the kids are listening even when it seems that they are not. It gave me hope that as a parent I'm doing the right things to bring up my child correctly. It also reminded me that sometimes you need to turn everything else off and just talk with your child.

One Great Man

2009-09-06T19:40:00.002-07:00

On Wednesday September 2nd 2009 one of the greatest men I've ever known passed away. My maternal Grandfather taught me much in this life and I was privileged to have almost 40 years of life with him in it.

My first memories of Grandpa Sam are of his house with Grandma. His house was clean and we were always asked to behave and be as quiet as possible. I would sit at my father's feet while the adults discussed things I couldn't grasp. Later I would understand that they were talking about family and life in general.

When I was a little older, Grandpa had a cabin on Chautauqua Lake in Upstate NY. We would visit him on weekends in the summer and the highlight of the visit was always fishing. There were two places to fish, the dock and from the boat. Here Grandpa could teach us important life lessons. The first was patience (you can't fish if you don't have patience). Here also we learned about how to catch fish. We were introduced to some of Grandpa's greatest one liners. For example we couldn't catch a thing unless we started out by reciting Grandpa's fishing call. "HERE FISHIE, FISHIE, FISHIE!" The trick to this call was to go as deep as possible with your voice. The deeper your voice the larger the fish we would catch. The second lesson learned was how to properly bait a hook with a worm. Grandpa would always remind us to bite the head off the worm before putting it on the hook. You were guaranteed to catch a fish if you bit the head off.

On a more serious note, there is one experience with my Grandpa that taught me the importance of respecting women and my mom more importantly. We were at my Grandpa's house. He had a miniature pool table and I was always playing on it. Well my mom decided it was time to go and called us to get in the car. I was probably 9 or 10 and told my mom I would be out when I finished my game. Quick as lightening my Grandpa's hand seized my wrist and in his sternest voice told me "When your mother says it's time to go, you go." I learned that day how important respect for mothers and women was and have tried to live my life in the same way.

Grandpa loved to golf. When I was a teenager I spent several rounds on the links with him. We would talk about life and golf. It was a great time. I got to know not only my Grandpa, but also his friends and family because of the stories he would tell me. I learned how important family is during this time. I also learned some secrets to golf. Like Grandpa's famous "Ancient Chinese Secret" to golf: "He who play peekie-peekie, play lousy golf."

Grandpa loved to laugh. He would laugh at life, jokes and the ironic. His laugh was contagious. I enjoyed hearing it and it will be one of the things I miss. To me Grandpa will always be swinging a golf club or taking a fish off a hook.

I said before that Grandpa is one of the greatest men I know. Really he is one of the two men who have greatly influenced my life (the other being my father). I hope that I am living up to the example he set for me.

My Grandfather will be greatly missed by me. I will never fish or golf without thinking about him. I will not look at my family without thinking if I am living up to the example he has set. I hope that I can impart the stories of my Grandpa to my children and grandchildren and that they will be able to learn as much from him as I have. Hit 'em straight Grandpa, I will see you again.

Tiger's Prowling

2009-08-10T15:33:00.003-07:00

So the last two Sundays I have watched an amazing performance. Tiger Woods has won the last two weeks on the PGA tour. Sound easy? Not so fast my friends (hey a Lee Corso reference means college football must be starting soon, but I digress). First you have to consider what it takes to walk a golf course for four days straight in the summer. Second you have to factor in travel. Third there are charity events and practice rounds and media interviews. It's no wonder these guys don't play every week.

Now consider that Tiger didn't do enough to outpace the field in each of the first three rounds of the last two tournaments. He was in the hunt on Sunday meaning the red shirt would be on, but still he had to execute his game in order to win. The poor guys that play with him. It has to be one of the most stressful times in golf. It's probably akin to guarding Michael Jordan in his prime during the NBA finals. It's intimidating to say the least.

However, yesterday it looked as if Tiger had flinched. On 14 Tiger hit his second shot right of the green and tried to flop the ball over a sand trap to get an up-and-down par. He miss-hit it and landed in the sand. The result a bogey. Had Tiger flinched? Harrington made par on the 14th and both golfers parred the 15th. That lead to the 16th where both players tee shots left something to be desired. Woods hit his second shot to within 181 yards in the middle of the fairway. Harrington hit his further but it was in the rough just outside a fairway bunker. This is where it all changed and Harrington ended up flinching.

Tiger pulled out his 8-iron. I don't know about you but I would have been hitting a 6 or a 5 depending on the wind. An 8-IRON! The announcers were talking about him hitting left of the hole about 25 feet. That's not Tiger's game. Instead Tiger hits the shot about 183 yards (again with an 8-IRON) that landed about 6 to 8 feet left of the hole and spun back to within a foot. I don't know about you but if I'm Harrington seeing that shot I know I have to get it close enough to save par.

Harrington hit his shot to the back right of the green (did I mention the right front of the green was guarded by water?). He had an impossible lie to try and get it close for par. He tried a flop shot, but unfortunately it looked like me out there and came out way too hot. The shot rolled off the green and into the water. Padraig had to walk back down the fairway to the drop zone and ended up making triple bogey. A four shot swing that sealed the tournament for Tiger.

This week the PGA Championship is being played. It is the season's last major. It is also Tiger's last chance to win a major this year. The way he is playing right now I think the field should be thinking of what to do with the second place money. Although it is hard to win on Tour three weeks in a row, Tiger is on his game and may just run away with it to prove the point that he is the best golfer in the world. I will be watching and yes rooting for Tiger to pull this off.

Family Vacation Part I

2009-07-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

OK, so two weeks away from the Arizona heat to spend time with family sounds like a lot of fun right? You bet it was! And now for a little recap of the vacation:

Day 1: Traveling to Utah. 10+ hours in the car with 5 kids. Not getting into an accident when some idiot forgot to tie down his empty blue water barrel? Priceless. As a side note, the spin created on the blue barrel was quite a site and the reactions of the motorists to not only avoid the barrel but a 10 car pile up was amazing. Of course the driver who lost the barrel had no idea the panic he caused and deserved every gesture every driver gave him passing by.

Day 2: Sunday meant baby blessing. The newest addition to the extended family was blessed by his father and was a great day for all family involved. A short luncheon was held afterward and it was good to see everyone. Later that day we had another family reunion where we visited the birth-father of our 5 year old. It was great because we didn't get to spend a lot of time with him when the adoption occurred. We got to visit with him and his mother and got some great stories. We also got to see where some of the traits of our 5 year old originated.

Day 3: Hiking Mount Timpanogos. My Brother-in-Law gets full marks for carrying the one year old up the mountain in the backpack. She fell asleep at least twice. The caves were amazing. I think the kids were in awe of what this world can create. Of course there had to be some excitement and using the emergency potty pouches qualifies for that. For some reason boys have to go when they get cold. Who would have thunk it?

Day 4: Golf and the Ropes Course. Doing team building exercises was a lot of fun. Everyone had ideas and nobody chickened out. Super high marks go to our 6 year old who had to do the rope swing twice. The first time the catchers missed her and she swung back to the pack. But leave it up to her to get right back on that rope and swing again. The most thrilling part of the ropes course? The 40 to 50 foot swing. You get harnessed in and then pulled up to the top where you have to let go of a rope to free fall about 10 feet and then begin to swing. All the kids did it at least once (so did the adults) and most of them did it twice. The rock wall was more of a challenge and not all of us made it to the top.

Day 5: Lagoon. Roller coasters, Blast Off and Reentry, Scramblers, and various other rides. What more needs to be said? The kids and adults had a blast. A lot of sun was gotten as well. Best ride? Reentry (even if I did close my eyes for the first drop).

Day 6: Up. Movie day. I stayed with the toddlers so they could get a nap (and not waste money on a ticket to a movie I wouldn't have seen). According to all who saw it "Up" is as good as it gets.

Day 7: Down time and reunion with 6 year old's birth mother. It was good to have a day of resting after the first few jam-packed days. We met up with our daughter's birth mother at a park where she was able to meet her half-siblings as well as her birth grandparents and uncle.

Day 8: Extended Family Picnic and Date Night. So we had an extended family picnic where we met up with my in-laws families. They're a good bunch and fun was had by all (even if volley ball wasn't up to our usual Olympic standards). Later that day the adults went out to dinner. Our first choice had a 90 minute wait and so we went to Red Fish. As usual the food was good and the conversation as well. Best line? Mother-in-Law: "If I looked like you I would be able to eat like that as well." You can imagine the jokes and other lines that this sparked.

Day 9: Church and Reunion with Oldest's Birth Mother. Going to church with five kids is always an adventure. Somehow we survived without interrupting the reverence too much. Later in the afternoon we met up with the 8 year old's birth mother at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. He was able to meet his half-siblings and talk about what they liked to do (his is swim, his half-brother's is run). At the end of the meeting it started to rain and was quite refreshing as the heat and humidity were starting to get annoying.

Days 10 and 11: Mostly down time. We did go to the Farm and Dinosaur Museum at Thanksgiving Point. The kids got to touch different animals, ride a horse-drawn wagon and look for gnomes amongst the dinosaurs. The best part of the Dinosaur museum is the erosion table. Here the kids can see what water can do to soil and how it can bury animals to create fossils. Golf was also played at the Rances. The low score was 103 for 18 holes, not bad, but we could have done better.

Day 12: Reunion with Youngest's Birth-mother and Girls get away. We were able to meet in West Jordan with our youngest's birth mother. It's amazing to see how similar the two of them are. Again there were half-siblings there and all the kids played on the play sets. It's great to get caught up on the lives of these incredible birth parents and find out how well they are doing. Later that day the "Girls" went shopping and I watched the kids (yes all 10 of them). Grandpa did come over to enjoy the site of cousins playing together. There was very little (if any) fighting that occurred. A lot of sun was gotten by the kids (not enough sunscreen duh!).

Day 13: Another Movie Day. We went and saw Ice Age 3. Well that is all but Cheryl and my Sister-in-law. See we didn't get a babysitter for the toddlers and so all four of them sat outside while the rest of us were in 3-D heaven. Later that night a different group of us went and saw "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince". I was very impressed by the film even though it did have some omissions I thought were critical to the story. The movie ended at midnight which meant a short night's sleep.

Day 14: Friends and Dinner. This was our last day and we had made arrangements to have lunch with friends who were also in town. We hadn't seen Jared in about 4 years so it was good to meet them at Ruby River and catch up on old times. They are moving to Virginia so who knows how long it will be until we get to see them in person again. The adults were able to get out one more time sans children for dinner at Famous Dave's. Trash Can Lid Feasts for everyone! Literally you can order the Feast and it comes out served on a garbage can lid. Ribs, Brisket, Chicken, Pork, Corn on the cob, French Fries, Coleslaw and Beans. Did I mention we had to be wheelbarrowed out of the place? Well worth it.

Day 15: Time to head home. The trip back is the hardest part. Everyone is tired and traveling 10 hours in a car and returning to 110 degree heat is not something people look forward to. However my wife, (did I mention she is the best mother in the world?) had a brilliant idea. . . Cooperation Dollars. It works like this. If you behave, you get a quarter for every 15 minutes we are in the car. At the end of the trip you get the money earned. If you misbehave a quarter or more is taken away. We didn't have any negative balances so I don't know what would have happened. Personally I think it would be great if my kids would pay me. All of the kids made good money which means we didn't have very many incidents on the way home. Also there were no signs of Blue water barrels joy-spinning on the highway so we didn't have to worry about that.

All in all a great vacation. Next up? All of us on an airplane to Buffalo for my Brother's Wedding. We may need a lot of cooperation dollars. . .

It's the Climb

2009-06-19T07:38:00.002-07:00

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna want to make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

-- Miley Cyrus The Climb

If you've read some of my previous blog entries you know that music has a way of inspiring me to think about life. The song quoted above has done this to me once again. In this case it has sparked an introspection on what life is really about.

I believe that there was a pre-mortal life. A life before we were born where in we made choices that led to us coming to this Earth. That pre-mortal life was a time spent with God learning about the ways in which we could be assured to live with Him forever. We made a conscious choice to follow the plan created by Him. Part of that plan was to come to this Earth.

So here we are in mortality. This is our climb. This is the time where we will prove ourselves worthy to return to God's presence. This is our chance to follow the plan and earn our spot in Heaven. "The Climb" has reminded me of this. We are climbing a mountain that will lead us back home. With that said, how do the lyrics of the song apply? I'm just taking the chorus although the verses are also good to explore.

"There's always gonna be another mountain. I'm always gonna want to make it move" - How many times have I seen this in my life. Another challenge. Another test of my faith. Another way for me to prove myself in God's eyes. I kind of like a challenge. A challenge inspires me to better myself and prove to myself that I have the ability to do things no matter what others might think or say.

"Always gonna be an uphill battle. Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose." - Nobody is perfect. We fail; it's part of being human. It's part of learning. It's part of growing. If battles were all downhill we wouldn't have to do much to achieve victory.

"Ain't about how fast I get there" - This reminds me of Aesop's The Tortoise and the Hare fable. The moral of the story is "Slow and Steady Wins the Race". If we try to rush this life we will miss things that could be important. Also we may not complete that which is necessary to achieve our goal.

"Ain't about what's waiting on the other side" - This one I have to disagree with a little. What's waiting on the other side is the whole point of the climb. That said, the focus has to be on what we are doing in order to get there. This means that we need to put the proper priority on things and ensure that we are climbing and not just gazing at the end goal.

"It's the climb" - This is what this life is all about. Climbing the mountain of mortality in order to return to God's presence. What's waiting on the other side makes the climb worth it. However, enjoying and learning from the climb enriches our souls and makes us the best of God's children.

Each of us has our own mountains to climb. Mine are different than yours. No matter how many times I may fall down, I will get back up. Quitting is not an option and the climb is worth it.

Things I learned at Cub Scout Camp

2009-06-11T11:30:00.001-07:00

This week I had the opportunity to accompany my 8 year old son to Cub Scout Camp. The Camp runs 3 afternoons and is filled with many activities. This year the camp had a Pirate theme. We were assigned to Den 11 and here was our cheer:

Pirates don't go to heaven! We're Den 11! Aaargh!

There were 10 boys in our den and they did remarkably well. There were 6 areas where activities occurred. These areas were Pool, Crafts, Pirate Adventure, Games, BB Gun Range and Archery (I bet you can guess which ones were the boys favorites). There were some great life lessons taught and the boys had tons of fun while learning. Of course as a leader I learned a lot too. Here are the things I learned at Cub Scout Camp:

8 and 9 year old boys have energy no matter what time of day
Webelos are the ultimate water balloon target
Boys can eat when hungry (Pizza and Burgers at least)
Listening is a skill they have acquired, no matter what you think about your child
Competition is inborn to 95% of them, the other 5% learn it at camp
I should be shooting a gun left handed (explains why I could never hit a target growing up)
Popping balloons with arrows should be a part of every boys life
Contrary to "A Christmas Story" boys don't necessarily shoot their eyes out when handling a BB Gun
Boys fight and get over it, there is no grudge held (adults could learn a lot from this)
Webelos are the best (except when a leader is pitching kick-ball to them then they think things are unfair)

I could go on, but needless to say the camp was great! The staff was great! The boys were . . . well GREAT! Me? I'm tired and ready to sleep.

Of Glee and Regret

2009-06-02T10:10:00.001-07:00

Fox has come out with a new show called Glee. I don't know if I can watch it. It hits a little too close to home for me. At least the previews I've seen lead me to this conclusion. The basic premise is a teacher returns to High School to take over the Glee club. The previews show the politics of High School and the so called hierarchy of students (Jocks and such at the top, others down the ladder).

To me this hits home because growing up and through my Sophomore year I always sang in Chorus. I had a few solos in Elementary school and sung decently. I never was great (but I was pretty good I think). Even today I have a decent voice. I was also athletic and played soccer, basketball and baseball.

My Freshman year in High School I tried out for the yearly musical and got a backup singer's role. People told me to stick with it and I might get a more prominent role in the future. My Sophomore year I was invited to sing in the school's Show Choir.

It was this year that I made some decisions that I regret now. You see the politics mentioned above existed in my school (or at least in my perception they did). I felt as though my abilities to sing were a hindrance not a talent. I was embarrassed to be in Chorus, Show Choir and Musicals. In fact the first time I let this affect me was when Yearbook pictures were to be taken for the Show Choir group. The announcement came across the PA system and I just sat in my class instead of getting up and going to have the picture taken. Two more times the announcement came and twice more I slunk deeper into my chair to avoid going. It was one of the dumbest decisions I had ever made.

Needless to say the next year and my Senior year I did not participate in Chorus, Show Choir or Musicals. I moved away from friendships that could have blossomed. I now realize how much I missed out on and for what? It was stupid to be swayed by people's perception. I don't think I made that many more friends with the Jocks. In fact I lost a lot more than I ever gained because of that decision my Sophomore year.

Hopefully those who knew me at that time will understand that I gave in to a perception. I made a poor choice and missed out on what could have been a lot of fun. I missed out on building relationships with people and also blossoming a talent I have. I hope I didn't offend anyone (including the Chorus and Show Choir instructor Mrs. Dennis).

I have learned from this experience. I know that it is important to develop all the talents we have. I will strive to teach my children that a talent is to be cherished and shared. Hopefully they will learn from my mistake and not have the same feeling of regret I experience.

Happy Anniversary

2009-05-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

Today is the 14th anniversary when I married the most wonderful (and beautiful) woman in the world. It's hard to describe exactly how I feel about her. She is my companion and best friend. I cannot think of a scenario where I would be able to live without her. She is a most wonderful Mom, friend and person.

I feel very inadequate of having such a wonderful person in my life. I don't know how in the world I got so lucky as to have her with me. The things I have learned from her and with her have enriched my life in ways that I never thought were possible. So as is usual with me and emotional things I have to express some of my thoughts through songs that I know. One that comes to mind is this:

She stares through my shadow
She sees something more
Believes there's a light in me
She is sure
And her truth makes me stronger
Does she realize
I awake every morning
With her strength by my side

I am not a hero
I am not an angel
I am just a man
Man who's trying to love her
Unlike any other
In her eyes I am

In Her Eyes - Josh Groban

In her eyes I see love and that makes me feel joyous and filled. That love completes me and makes me strive to better myself. They say life is a journey. If so, then I've found my perfect traveling companion.

A Priceless Victory

2009-05-15T11:43:00.001-07:00

"Oh Crap! I duffed it! Quick shield the ball and hope my teammate gets it first. There's Evan, phew, ok, move to get a pass. Dribble. There's Scott open in the middle but with four guys near, not good. Hold, dribble. Scott is making a run to the wall, pass it now. Run to goal. Scott's at the wall with a defender, wait here comes the ball off the wall, quick one-time it with the right foot. . . GOAL! YES! GAME OVER!"

That pretty much describes the 15 seconds of overtime as it played out in my head last Monday night. See for the last couple of months I have been playing with some friends in the neighborhood. Monday night was the first night of the playoffs. We had battled hard for 44 minutes (yes 22 minutes a half) and did not have a winner. 3-3 going into a five minute sudden death overtime. We won the toss and I had the kickoff. The rest is described above.

I cannot properly express the adrenaline rush I have felt since that moment. To score the game winning goal in overtime of a playoff game really has no description. You play the game you make choices and hope you get the chance on your foot to end the game. It happened to me and let me tell you I was sky-high afterward.

Now we wouldn't have been in that situation if we hadn't come together as a team and played our best game of the year. A couple of weeks ago this same team gave us an 8-3 drubbing. A couple of weeks before that we had beaten them 3-2. This was a matchup of similar teams. However we had to play our best in order to beat them. We played team defense and team offense. We built each other up, communicated and did the things that good teams do. It was a night to remember.

We also had our largest cheering section of the year and my three oldest children were able to attend (even though Cheryl and I had a long discussion on whether or not to let them). I'm glad they were there. It is rare that they get to see me play the game I love. I'm happy that they also enjoyed the game and understood what my goal meant. A couple days later my oldest said to me "Dad, I'm so glad I got to see you play soccer." I can't tell you all the emotions that brought out in me.

A great game with a great end and witnessed by my children, now that's priceless.

I Just Don't Get It

2009-04-03T10:48:00.002-07:00

Ok, so I work with a diverse group of people. There are people from the right, left and center of the political spectrum. There are people from diverse nationalities, ethnicities and lifestyles. In my neighborhood we have different views on religion, politics, family upbringing, etc. These differences are known, however we all work together to solve issues and propose solutions that make the most sense.

So in the real world all these people work together and express their ideas. At the end of the day we all come together and the best ideas are chosen and work moves forward. It is amazing to see the willingness of all to come to a common solution.

So what I don't get is when these same people get into government this process of working together to come up with the best solution goes out the window. If you're on the left the right is always wrong and doesn't have any good ideas and vice versa. It's really confusing why in the day-to-day world of citizenry we can work together and come to a common consensus while in government it doesn't happen.

I think that both sides of the aisle have good ideas. I think that if they wanted to they could work together and move things forward. I think there are enough bright people in government to put aside the stupidity of party lines and work together to solve our problems.

So my question is, WHY DON'T THEY DO IT? I know I'm asking a lot of them. I mean really my business would get along fine if we had one side in power over another and all their ideas went forward without getting input from the other. I'm sure that my company would meet shareholder expectations by not finding the best ideas and implementing them. I mean after all the people in power always know what's best right?

The silliness that happens in our government reminds me of the kids on a playground. "My team's better than your team. You're team is stupid. You guys are losers!" I mean really why can't they grow up and get along?

I just don't get it.

Autism Awareness Day

2009-04-02T08:49:00.004-07:00

Today is Autism Awareness day. This day is particularly important to my family. Our oldest son Levi has been diagnosed as high-functioning autistic. So today is a day where I can help others understand what Autism is and what it is not.

Autism is defined as:

Autism is a brain development disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. These signs all begin before a child is three years old. The autism spectrum disorders (ASD) also include related conditions such as Asperger syndrome that have milder signs and symptoms.

- Wikipedia Autism

Autism is not easily defined. It is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees of autism. There are those that are severely affected by this disorder to where they cannot function in society. There are others who are "minimally" affected by the disorder and can function in society. This in no way diminishes the severity of the disorder because there are episodes that occur in high-functioning autistic people that can be problematic.

The following sentence was my way of trying to explain what it feels like to be autistic. It was pointed out that this might not be the best way to do this and I agree. I am constantly learning and will try to express my thoughts better as I grow. The biggest problem for the autistic person is the feeling of being trapped in their body.

They have a difficult time communicating what they feel. They have a hard time putting things together that most of us don't even think about. They can obsess about things and become a one-track mind.

A source for the disorder has not been found. It is one of the great mysteries in medical science. There have been theories, but none of them have proven to be the source for Autism. There are medicines that can help autistic people remain in control. There are diets that have shown promise to some autistic people.

As I said above our oldest son Levi (above) is high-functioning autistic. This is a blessing as well as a challenge. High-functioning means that he has the capacity to function as any other child. He can go to school with others his age and only have to receive help as needed. He does take some medication to help him be able to communicate better without getting so frustrated that he loses his temper.

Levi does obsess about things. It's usually the worst during the birthday/Christmas season (all of our birthdays fall between September and January). Right now he is obsessed with owning and caring for a hamster. It takes time to work with him to help him understand what it takes to care for a hamster. It takes time to help him understand the costs for having a hamster.

It takes patience to work with him on doing chores, explaining why he can or can't do certain things, understanding what he wants to do. It takes patience to know that when he says "I hate you! You're stupid!" that it's his frustration coming out and that deep down inside he does love you.

There are times though when the true Levi comes out. When he tells you that you are the best dad ever. When he does things on his own without being asked. When he plays with his siblings and shares and gives them help. The times when the light of discovery hits and he has wonder and awe in his eyes.

I hope that this has helped you understand autism better. I hope that if you see me with Levi and he seems to be on the attack you will understand that this is part of his disorder and not his real self. I hope that you will be able to ask what you can do to help in these situations. I hope you know that we as his parents are doing our best to ensure that his life is fulfilling and that he can function in society. And most importantly I hope you understand that autism is a challenge and that like any other challenge there are ways to overcome and that sometimes patience is the key. I hope you also know that I wouldn't change anything that has happened over the past 8+ years that Levi has been in my life. I have grown and learned and am a better man for having dealt with an autistic child.

What the frak?

2009-03-25T14:04:00.001-07:00

What the frak? That pretty sums up how I felt about the end of the Battlestar Galactica series. At least at the end of the show. I've had a couple of days to think over the finale and decided that it makes some sense and takes a bold stab at certain perceptions here on Earth. So this is my review of the finale.

First the main character resolution was well done. It was real life in that people who deserved to die lived and people who deserved to live died. That said the one that blew me away was Kara Thrace (Starbuck). For the last few episodes she had been trying to figure out what/who she was. I have to admit I didn't catch the reference to Kara in Baltar's monologue about Angels. It didn't click until She up and disappeared when talking to Lee Adama. Then it clicked. She was the only "Angel" that was able to be seen and touched by everyone involved. The other two "Angels" (Baltar and Caprica 6 only seen by the real Baltar and Caprica 6) did not have that "privilege".

Now for the part that left my head scratching until I thought about it. At the end of the show it flash forwards to our time on the planet where the human and Cylon alliance members land and start without technology. This was a bold maneuver because it gave a theory of human advancement that I have not heard. It is basically this:

Humans were created on Earth by a being who doesn't like to be called God
In order to help their evolution "God" led the Humans and Cylons to this Earth in order to "breed" with them
Humans are therefore a mix of evolution and "alien" DNA

Now whether or not this is correct is up to the Ronald Moore and David Eick, but this is my understanding.

There was one more theme that was put into this season that is a message to all of us. "This has all happened before and will all happen again." Basically stating that if we aren't careful we will destroy ourselves. The cycle has happened before (even in our own history, Rome, Mayans, etc). The point of the Human and Cylon alliance was to give a chance to the humans on Earth the opportunity to break the cycle.

Lastly it was interesting to see the take on God. That there is someone in charge of things, yet he only does enough to show that he is there and watching. That sometimes he guides man's destiny in order to ensure that mankind survives.

All in all I thought it was a good ending to a great show and that it will be one people look to as a benchmark in Sci-fi TV.

Value of Hard Work

2009-03-12T09:26:00.001-07:00

Saturday I had to get some yard work done. I was mowing the yard when my 8 year came up and asked if he could do it. I had two choices: 1. Tell him it was too dangerous and have him go play or 2. Take the time to teach him and show confidence in his abilities to learn new things. I went with option number two.

The first thing we did was empty the current bag so that he had an empty bag to start with. I then showed him how to start the mower (it's a push mower). Now starting a mower with a pull rope is not easy, especially when you also have to hold down a bar. He tried a couple of times with no luck. I asked him if he wanted me to help him. He said no and so I let him continue. He was able to start the mower in two more pulls.

I then showed him how to engage the drive with another bar to make the mower move easier. I then showed him the line I was cutting to and had him begin. Now being 8 and not having any experience he didn't exactly follow the line. No big deal! When he got to the end of the line I showed him how to turn the mower and continue on. He ended up finishing the rest of the yard with a few missed spots. Once done I asked him to show me what he missed and we went back over those areas to finish up.

I have to admit that a part of me didn't want to take this time to show him as I knew it would take longer. But the other part of me remembered that it is important for children to learn how to work and that there is tremendous value in being able to perform some tasks.

I remember growing up in Western New York on 8 1/2 acres. I remember my Dad showing me how to work our lawn mower and being responsible for the lawn from an early age. I learned other things as well from my Dad including how to split and stack wood, how to start the fire in the furnace and keep it going, and myriad other "chores". This instilled in me the need to be able to perform tasks that would benefit me later in life when I had my own family.

Now I get the chance to do what my Dad did. Teach my children the value of hard work and the value in learning various tasks. I told my son that when we go to visit my Dad this fall that we might be able to split wood and stack it together. It would give me the opportunity to teach him as I was taught.

I truly think that in today's environment there are a lot of people who don't get to learn some of the tasks that teach the value of hard work. Too often the tasks that are asked of children are too easy and then they are allowed to go and watch TV or play video games. I look forward to helping my children understand the value of hard work and hope they would take the time to teach their children as well.

Three Ring Circus

2009-03-05T12:02:00.002-07:00

So Levi has been learning about migrations and as part of that he has learned about the migration west in the USA. He learned the Schoolhouse Rock song "Elbow Room". As a reward for learning this and performing it at school we bought the two DVD set of Schoolhouse Rock. It was something I'd been wanting to get as I was addicted to Schoolhouse Rock every Saturday morning. There is one song about the government that seems to ring loudly today. It's called Three Ring Government. Here are the lyrics:

Gonna have a three-ring circus someday,
People will say it's a fine one, son.
Gonna have a three-ring circus someday,
People will come from miles around.
Lions, tigers, acrobats, and jugglers and clowns galore,
Tightrope walkers, pony riders, elephants, and so much more...

Guess I got the idea right here at school.
Felt like a fool when they called my name,
Talkin' about the government and how it's arranged,
Divided in three like a circus.
Ring one, Executive,
Two is Legislative, that's Congress.
Ring three, Judiciary.
See it's kind of like my circus, circus.

Step right up and visit ring number one.
The show's just begun. Meet the President.
I am here to see that the laws get done.
The ringmaster of the government.

On with the show!

Hurry, hurry, hurry to ring number two.
See what they do in the Congress.
Passin' laws and juggling bills,
Oh, it's quite a thrill in the Congress.
Focus your attention on ring number three.
The Judiciary's in the spotlight.
The courts take the law and they tame the crimes
Balancing the wrongs with your rights.

No one part can be
more powerful than any other is.
Each controls the other you see,
and that's what we call checks and balances.

Well, everybody's act is part of the show.
And no one's job is more important.
The audience is kinda like the country you know,
Keeping an eye on their performance.

Ring one, Executive,
Two is Legislative, that's Congress.
Ring three, Judiciary.
See it's kind of like my circus, circus.

Gonna have a three-ring circus someday.
People will say it's a fine one son,
But until I get it, I'll do my thing
With government. It's got three rings.

Watching what's going on in Washington today seems like a three-ring circus to me.

Racing Day

2009-03-02T15:01:00.007-07:00

Levi participated in his first Pinewood Derby this past Saturday. For those who don't know this is an activity participated in by Cub Scouts. Now the rules state that the Cub Scout is to do as much of the work as possible. So this provided a great opportunity for Levi to learn a couple of things. The first was to design the car.

As you can see he went for a modern looking police car. He drew the design himself and so the next step was to carve the design out of the block of wood. I drew the design on the car and using a handsaw carved out the design. Now you are asking yourself how is it that Levi didn't carve out the car? Well I figured an 8 year old carving a desing with a handsaw was a bad idea. So instead I taught him how to cut wood with a saw without ruining his car. He thought it was cool to be able to cut wood with a saw.

The next step was to sand the car smooth so it could be painted. Levi did 95% of the sanding on the car. I did the remaining 5%. He learned that by smoothing the car it would run better on the track and be more aerodynamic.

Levi wanted to paint the car himself and do the painting design himself. This he did. Now was it a perfect paint job? No, but it was a good job for the first time an 8 year old was painting. After the first coat had dried, Levi went to sanding off again to get the drips and rough spots. A second coat was added and the car was ready to go.

The big day came and we went to the racing site where the car had to be checked in and weighed. The car could weigh up to 5 ounces. When we got there the car weighed about 3 ounces. So we added weights to get the car up to 4.9 ounces. As you can see it wasn't and elegant job so next time we will work on the weights better.

The above picture shows the start of Levi's first race with his car. He had four races total coming in 2nd, 4th, 4th, and 1st. He was very happy with his performance. Levi got the award for "Excellent Performance" as part of the activity.

Overall his first Pinewood Derby was a huge success. I can't wait to see what he thinks up for next year's car and how much more he will do to work on it. I left the activity feeling very proud of Levi as well as knowing that he learned several life lessons that will serve him well.

Effects of the Economy

2009-02-27T08:55:00.002-07:00

Usually I would be writing about one of my Pet Peeves, but today I need to write about something else. This week was a difficult one for us because of the economy. Now I didn't lose my job, but we did lose something vital to our family. As you know we have a couple of special needs children. Our fourth child Grace was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. She has been receiving help from the State with 4 therapists coming into our home each week. This week we found out that because of budget cuts her therapies would be "suspended". Basically they are saying that she will receive no more therapy.

I had the opportunity to talk with Grace's support coordinator about the situation. Basically she explained that she didn't know when the services would be suspended but that they definitely would be. Grace's authorization comes due in March and we figure that is when the suspension will begin. She will still have a "support coordinator" (BTW, doesn't that seem strange that she gets a support coordinator but no services to support?), however she will not get the services she needs. The person I talked to said that they have a "book of ideas" that we can have to help us ensure Grace can progress.

Gratefully my wife is a stay-at-home mom. This means that she can work with Grace during the day and hopefully implement the "ideas" from the book. We will be OK (I think) but I can't help but wonder about other families that aren't as blessed as we are to have a parent in the home during the day to work with their children.

I completely understand that in this economy there have to be budget cuts. I get that everyone needs to sacrifice. This doesn't mean I have to like it. I can only hope that we will all look at how things are done in government and how the money is spent and impress on our leaders that there are programs and services that should have a higher priority than others. I also can only hope that others in our situation can find a way to help their children when the services stop. I know we are going to do everything we can so Grace can progress.

Feel Like Reminiscing

2009-02-26T08:30:00.002-07:00

So yesterday I had the chance to reminisce twice on my past.

The first was when I was able to contact someone from High School about something that didn't happen on graduation night. For years I had wanted to let this person know that I had gone to the party that she asked me to go to. I stayed for a while but she didn't show up and I've felt for years that I left too soon and somehow left her disappointed. Well yesterday I was able to voice this to her. It didn't matter to me whether or not she remembered what happened. I had to let her know that I was there and that we just didn't get together. It was a good conversation and I hope we can continue to stay in touch.

The other incident I found on my fridge. It was a birthday card from a friend that was made my first year in college. I can still remember the day clearly and how it helped me feel like I had made some good friends. During that point in my life I was sometimes keeping a journal and the day is marked by an entry and the homemade card is inserted there as well.

It has been good to reminisce about the past. It was also good to talk about things that I haven't been able to resolve. There are still more things that I need to resolve (mainly because my brain works weird and bugs me about them) but it will happen.

Pet Peeve Friday: Telling God What To Do

2009-02-13T08:15:00.001-07:00

I'm probably going to get a lot a flaming comments for this Pet Peeve, but it needs to be said. Today's Pet Peeve is all about humans telling God what His rules should be. You see it all the time, people want a religion to change its rules because they don't like them or they don't feel they are fair. Sorry to burst your bubble, but when God makes a rule it is a rule and we are to abide by it. The good news is that He allows us to verify this by asking Him if what we are taught is right and according to His will.

I had a conversation about a year ago with a friend of mine. He asked why religion cares about the morality of its members. I put it this way. We have a law in the land that states robbery is a crime. If I was a thief and I felt I couldn't help it then why should government care if I stole things. I mean the rule is very discriminating against me. I can't help what I am after all. The point was made sufficiently so that understanding was achieved.

To those of you who don't agree with the laws I believe are from God, please accept that I do not judge you because of that. I am living according to the rules I believe have come from Him. We have a statement of faith in our religion:

We claim the privilege of worshipping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.

To me this means that I should worship according to my beliefs and allow you to worship according to yours. This also means that even if you don't believe I will respect that and allow you to live your life. What really irks me though is to be labeled "misinformed" in areas that are "socially progressive". I'm sorry but if "socially progressive" means that people expect God to change His rules then take my name off the list. God has established rules that we are to live by so that the next life can be in His presence and He can reward us appropriately. It would be foolish of me to expect everyone to believe the same as I, however that does not mean that I should not express my beliefs and support them where appropriate.

We live in a world today where it is OK to "agree to disagree". I believe that allows us to have tolerance and to support one another even though we have differences. Expecting God to change His rules is not part of this. Accepting that people have differences is.

My Patriotic Duty

2009-02-12T10:54:00.001-07:00

So by the title I would bet you thought I would be talking about the Stimulus (Spendulus) package. Well I'm not, but I have done my part by writing to my representatives and expressing how I feel about it. No this entry is about last nights World Cup Qualifier between the US and Mexico.

As you know I'm coaching my son's soccer team. You might not know that I have been playing soccer since I was seven and am fanatic about it. I will wake up at all hours of the night to watch the teams I want to see play (although the DVR has reduced this and my wife is grateful for that). So I'm going to give my take on last night's game.

The US came into last night with an 8-0-2 record in its last 10 games against Mexico in the US. It's a significant streak seeing that these two teams are the best in the region (CONCACAF). This means that there was some pressure for the US to do well and continue its home dominance. Also this is the opening game of World Cup Qualifying and it was essential to get 3 points for the win (conventional wisdom is you win at home and draw on the road). The first thing I noticed about the game was the American National Anthem. Most times you just hear the band (recorded) playing the tune. Not last night, for the first time I can remember the crowd could be heard singing The Star Spangled Banner. It was impressive as the fans (Sam's Army) showed they were there to support the team.

The game was affected by the weather, with the wind being the most annoying of the elements. However, good teams make up for the conditions and both these teams played pretty much unaffected. The game didn't start that great for the US and if not for a great save by keeper Tim Howard the US would have been in a 1-0 hole early.

That seemed to wake the US up a bit and they started to play better. They began to take control of the game and show that playing on US soil is hostile ground for any visitor. The midfield play picked up and that led to a couple of good chances. However no goals were scored until the 43rd minute.

The US won a corner and DaMarcus Beasley served the ball to the far post. Landon Donovan eluded his man and sent a perfect header back across the face of goal. Oguchi Onyewu then drove a powerful header at goal that was saved by the Mexican keeper Sanchez. The ball bounced to Michael Bradley who one-timed a volley into the top corner of the net. Just like that 1-0 USA.

Halftime arrived and it seemed that the momentum was going the US way. When the second half started there was good play in the midfield but nothing really of note until the 63rd minute. Mexico won a free kick from the left side and drove a ball to the middle of the area. Mexico got there first and the ball fell to the left side of the goal where it was played back across. The ball was semi-cleared but Mexico played it back in and Tim Howard (US keeper) came out to claim the ball. The Mexican captain (Marquez) challenged for the ball and ran into Howard. This probably would have been only a Yellow card, but Marquez flicked his right foot out with the studs up catching Howard on the leg. The referee (who in my opinion did a fantastic job the whole game) never hesitated in reaching into his back pocket and producing a red card. Mexico was now down to 10 men.

This is where the game for me showed a weakness in the US squad. Being up a man should have meant more ball control especially with a lead. But it seemed to me that the US was in a hurry at times and pushed the ball forward in a couple of 1 VS 3 situations where it should have been played back and more build up established. Mexico began to control the ball more and there was a worried feeling that they might just get the equalizer even though they were short-handed.

However the US gained some composure and Michael Bradley provided the final nail in the coffin. He received a pass about 22 yards from goal and hit a screaming low knuckle ball that eluded Sanchez and deposited into the bottom left corner of the goal. Game Over!

The game was pretty well played and the result was deserved. Hopefully though the team will go back and review the last 27 minutes and find ways to take better control of the situation. If they don't learn the ball control needed in the last quarter of a game they will find that other teams of Mexico's (and higher) caliber will score and deflate the US.

Getting Up Off the Ground

2009-02-09T12:20:00.001-07:00

As some of you know I coach my son's soccer team. They are a bunch of energetic five year olds that I'm trying to teach soccer to. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. But hey they are having fun and that is really what it is all about. I want to talk about something that happened in last Saturday's game that is not just a soccer lesson but a life lesson.

My son is not the biggest five year old around. In fact he is one of the smaller players on the field. Even so he is very smart and has a never surrender mentality. In the game last Saturday he had several opportunities to dribble the ball down field and try to score. Unfortunately there was a kid on the other team that was faster and bigger than him. The bigger kid would catch up to Sam and shoulder him to the ground (OK sometimes he would push him to the ground). Now as a coach I have two options, complain to the referee or encourage Sam to get up and go after the ball. I chose the latter. Sam listened and got up each time and went after the ball.

It's amazing to me how we have similar things happen in our lives. There are times when the bigger and faster kid will push us down to the ground. It's then that we have two options. The first is to complain about what happened and try to get someone else to take care of our problems. The second is to get up, dust ourselves off and "go after the ball". Personally the second option is the one I prefer because I can do something about the situation. It gives me a goal to go after and a chance to prove myself.

It seems that the ability to get up and "go after the ball" eventually pays off. In life it makes you stronger and more determined. In Sam's case it led to a goal on the last play of the game. Had he given up or complained he might not have had the courage to try again and achieve his "goal".

Pet Peeve Friday - And your Point is?

2009-01-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

In today's Pet Peeve Friday I'm going to talk about making your point. Of course your point has to be able to be made, in other words it has to be able to say something and be able to understand other points so as to have a debate. Now here is my pet peeve. Some people think that when the point is no longer relevant it is "mute". I've got news for you. If the point is "mute" it's not able to say anything nor is it able to hear anything. In other words it doesn't exist! Mute is defined as:

-adjective
silent; refraining from speech or utterance.
not emitting or having sound of any kind.
incapable of speech; dumb.
(of letters) silent; not pronounced.
Law. (of a person who has been arraigned) making no plea or giving an irrelevant response when arraigned, or refusing to stand trial (used chiefly in the phrase to stand mute).
Fox Hunting. (of a hound) hunting a line without giving tongue or cry.

- noun
a person incapable of speech.
an actor whose part is confined to dumb show.
Law. a person who stands mute when arraigned.
Also called sordino. a mechanical device of various shapes and materials for muffling the tone of a musical instrument.
Phonetics. a stop.
British Obsolete. a hired mourner at a funeral; a professional mourner.

- verb (used with object)
to deaden or muffle the sound of.
to reduce the intensity of (a color) by the addition of another color.

Now the correct way to label a point as no longer being relevant is to call the point "moot". This means that the point is no longer is in play as something else has either taken its place or has rendered it irrelevant. The definition of moot is:

- adjective
open to discussion or debate; debatable; doubtful: a moot point.
of little or no practical value or meaning; purely academic.
Chiefly Law. not actual; theoretical; hypothetical.

- verb (used with object)
to present or introduce (any point, subject, project, etc.) for discussion.
to reduce or remove the practical significance of; make purely theoretical or academic.
Archaic. to argue (a case), esp. in a mock court.

- noun
an assembly of the people in early England exercising political, administrative, and judicial powers.
an argument or discussion, esp. of a hypothetical legal case.
Obsolete. a debate, argument, or discussion.

So the next time you hear someone state that a point is "mute" please ask them if it is able to speak and hear. I guarantee you will get funny looks. Also please make sure to correct the person as we wouldn't want people who are intelligent to look silly. That or you can quote Will Smith in I Robot:

You are the dumbest smart person I know

U2 Favorites

2009-01-28T09:46:00.001-07:00

I was in a debate the other day about which musical group was better U2 or REM. For me it was an easy answer: U2. So here are my favorite songs from each U2 album:

Boy: Twilight
October: Gloria
War: Drowning Man
Under a Blood Red Sky: 40
Unforgettable Fire: A Sort of Homecoming
The Joshua Tree: One Tree Hill
Rattle and Hum: All I Want Is You
Achtung Baby: One
Zooropa: Stay (Faraway, So Close)
Pop: Please
The Best Of 1980 - 1990: Sweetest Thing (The Single Mix)
All That You Can't Leave Behind: Peace on Earth
The Best Of 1990 - 2000: Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me
How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb: City of Blinding Lights
U218 Singles: Sometimes You Can't Make it On Your Own

For me U2's music has spoken to me throughout my life. It's a great thing when music can speak to you so to those who chose REM I completely understand. For those of you who haven't had music speak to you, listen to

I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For - The Joshua Tree

Pet Peeve Friday - You don't have Bleu Cheese?

2009-01-23T09:47:00.001-07:00

Today is another edition of Pet Peeve Friday. Today's edition is what you put on Chicken Wings. A little background first. I grew up in the small town of Wales, NY. It is adjacent to East Aurora, NY home of Fisher-Price toys. East Aurora in turn is a suburb (loosely defined) of Buffalo, NY.

Growing up I was introduced early on to Chicken Wings. I was also introduced to the only thing that Buffalo Chicken Wings should ever be dipped in - Bleu Cheese. So today's pet peeve is about other dips that have been introduced as a substitute for the correct dip.

My first interaction with this issue was on a business trip shortly after I graduated from college. We were in a restaurant and I noticed they had Chicken Wings on the menu. So of course I ordered some and expected to get Bleu Cheese with them. To my shock and horror not only did they not bring me Bleu Cheese, they told me they didn't have any in the restaurant and instead said they could bring me barbecue sauce. BARBECUE SAUCE! What kind of heresy is this? Well needless to say this was the first in many a Chicken Wing letdown.

Today's trend seems to be to substitute Bleu Cheese with Ranch dressing. It is just so wrong that I can't even fathom why anyone would want to desecrate the sacredness of Chicken Wings with Ranch dressing. It just amazes me that I have to ask to substitute the offered Ranch with Bleu Cheese.

It's so bad I'm thinking about getting President Obama to issue an executive order that states all Chicken Wings MUST be served with Bleu Cheese. It may be the only way to ensure that this injustice is stopped and that all Chicken Wings will have the privilege of being dipped in the one true dip - Bleu Cheese.

Re-purposing (with a purpose)

2009-01-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was jogging with the dog when I took one misstep and rolled my ankle. After a visit to X-Ray and finding nothing broken I spent the rest of the day with my foot elevated, ice off and on and Motrin. Needless to say it wasn't the best day that I've had.

When it was time for bed I went upstairs and saw a card that my son had gotten for his birthday from his grandparents. I thought it was the same card but I was wrong. A lot of the card had been scribbled out and instead there were new words.

To Dad from Ellie and Sam

Inside the card was the following message:

Win [when] will you get better. We wont [want] you to get better soon. Love Ellie and Sam

Ellie is 6 and Sam is 5. I was downstairs when they did this and was wondering what all the noise was. Now I know. It was one of the most touching things they have ever done.

An Open Letter

2009-01-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

Dear President Obama,

In terms of full disclosure I want you to know that I didn't vote for you. I disagree with most of the policies you campaigned with. That said I do hope you will be able to move the country forward.

As I watched your inauguration yesterday I was impressed with the class and dignity that you showed President Bush. There are many who would have treated him with disdain, you set an example that I think all of us should follow.

I listened to your inaugural speech and have since re-read it. I think you addressed a lot of things and it will take a lot of work to accomplish them. Know that even though we may disagree I will do my part to help this country move forward. I think you have set an example that you are willing to listen to all ideas and take the best of them. I hope this continues.

The opening of your speech was great. I enjoyed your humility and could tell that you are going to take this job with all the seriousness it requires. I believe the job ahead of you is one of (if not) the toughest any president of our nation has faced. It is going to take the combined skill and work of not only your administration but also that of our legislative branch. There are lofty goals to be reached, problems to be solved and healing to enact. I believe that it can be done because America has done it before.

Even though I voted against you, I am pulling for you to help lead America out of the current crises. I hope that you will listen to the best ideas and fight for them. I know that there will be opposition and at times I may oppose you as well. I hope that you will get the help you need from other elected leaders in order to do what is right for this country.

I know the world is watching and I can only hope and pray that you are guided in your efforts, that you will listen to the best ideas and that roadblocks to the best ideas will be removed from your path. This is not an easy task you are undertaking but know that you will not be alone and that for the ideas that are right for the country you will have all the support you need.

America is the greatest nation in the world. It will not fall if we continue to work together. It will rise as we work together to find the best solutions to the problems we face.

Prelude to History

2009-01-19T08:51:00.001-07:00

Today is Martin Luther King Jr Day. It is also the day before an historic inauguration for President-Elect Barack Obama. I did not vote for the President-Elect, but nonetheless the significance of this event is not lost on me. If you have read my blog you know that all of our children are adopted. The fourth child is an African-American girl we named Grace.

As I think about today and the extraordinary things that Martin Luther King did in his life I know that the world is a better place for my daughter. As I look at the accomplishments of Colin Powell, Condoleeza Rice, Barack Obama and even Hillary Clinton, I know that my daughter has the opportunity to do anything.

We all have Pioneers in our history that have made this world better for us. The significance of this day shows that those Pioneers of the Civil Rights movement have achieved some (if not all) of their goals. The world is always made better because of those who are willing to sacrifice and work hard to make it so.

Grace is only two years old. She will not likely remember today or tomorrow. Therefore it is my job to ensure that she understands the significance of what is happening during these two days. My wife and I have already made the commitment to teach Grace about her background and culture. These two days will be included in that instruction. I look forward to helping her understand what great things people such as Martin Luther King Jr have done. I also look forward to helping her become the best that she can.

Pet Peeve Friday

2009-01-16T11:04:00.001-07:00

I've decided that I'm going to do a weekly feature on my blog. I'm calling it Pet Peeve Friday. Each Friday I am going to blog about one of my pet peeves. This week I've decide to blog on one of my traveling pet peeves.

The pet peeve goes like this. You are in the airport waiting for your flight and the announcement is made that boarding is going to start. Now each airline does things a little differently but the basic annoyance still occurs. In my case this week the airline I was traveling on boards by zone with the zone being located on your boarding pass. Everyone knows that the airline will board starting with Zone 1 and ending with Zone 6.

So here's what happens, the gate agent makes the announcement for pre-boarding and what do you see? People who are to board in zones higher than one start cramming toward the jet way. It's almost comical until you realize that because they are crowding the jet way and can't get on that it takes longer for the plane to load. It also hampers people who are supposed to be boarding right then and also causes the gate agent to remind people that they are boarding only certain zones at that time. I don't know what it is that compels these people to crowd the jetway. Do they think that because they are standing there the agent will hurry up and call their zone? Do they think that the agent will fold and cave in to them because they are standing right there? I've never seen it happen and yet people continue to think that waiting their turn is for others.

A Time To Celebrate

2009-01-08T12:50:00.000-07:00

As the “BCS National Championship” game is played tonight, I’m going to celebrate another championship. I’m going to celebrate the last non-BCS school to win a National Championship: The BYU Cougars. In today’s world there is no way a “non-BCS” school will ever win a National Championship. The system is designed to prevent this. That means there are 54 teams in the FBS who have no shot at winning a National Championship. Each year Duke has a better chance of making a BCS bowl game than all 54 of the non-BCS teams combined. Sure a non-BCS team can go to a BCS bowl game (e.g. Utah this year) but a non-BCS team will NEVER go to the National Championship game.

If this was 1984, Utah would be the National Champions of college football. Was the old system perfect? No, but at least it gave all teams a chance to win the title.

So tonight while I root on Florida (preference between the two), I will also raise a glass of soda to the BYU Cougars, the last non-BCS team to ever win a National Championship in college football.

The Window Seat

2009-01-07T10:50:00.005-07:00

We have been slowly working on our home office (study) and I have been working on the Window Seat. Well over the holidays I finally finished it.

If you look closely you'll see that there are several parts to the window seat. Each of these parts was built separately and in this order:

Base (2X4s)
2 Boxes (3/4" plywood with two separators)
Inner molding (helps keep the separators secure)
Outer molding (makes things look linked together)

Here is a closer look at each of the two boxes that make up the window seat:

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience creating this window seat. I am extremely glad to be done with it too. Of course it is not yet completed as it needs to be painted and also decorated with cushions and other things. Of course that's going to be done by Cheryl as my artistic expression isn't very good.

So This Is Christmas

2008-12-25T12:36:00.002-07:00

Tuesday night I was watching the kids and decided to put on a Christmas special for them while I made dinner. I put on "The Little Drummer Boy". My oldest watched a couple of minutes and said:

Dad, this isn't a Christmas special it's a movie on the birth of Jesus.

I explained to him that this was the real meaning of Christmas, that we celebrate the birth of our Savior. During this time there is one Christmas Carol that I love more than any other. It is "Oh Holy Night". The words to the song are thus:

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels' voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King, Behold your King.

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.

Today is Christmas and this carol states how I feel about my Savior. The world waited for Him in sin and error, so much so that when He came He had to correct the errors of the day. Those who had looked for His coming did rejoice and there was new hope from His birth. The three wise men came from the East to herald the day of His birth. The gifts they brought him were specially for Him and for His life's mission. He began life in a lowly manger so that when He lifted Himself up He could reach down and lift us as well. He is our friend, the best friend anyone can have and is always there for us. He taught us the true meaning of love and peace. He broke the chains that have held us all slave to sin if we will just follow Him. The lessons taught by Him, if followed, would bring an end to all oppression. So I echo with this song:

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.

I hope that all who read these words will enjoy this celebration of the birth of the Savior. If you do not believe that Jesus is the Christ I hope that there is peace in your home and that there is joy.

R E S P E C T

2008-12-18T10:13:00.001-07:00

R E S P E C T find out what it means to me.

- Aretha Franklin

When I was 10 or 11 I learned a very important lesson on respect. The lesson was taught to me by my Grandfather. We were at his house and he had a miniature pool table. I was playing when my Mom announced it was time to go. I told her that I was going to finish the game and then I'd be out. My Grandfather was right next to me when I said it. He reached over and grabbed my arm and said "You will go when your Mom says it's time to go". There was no arguing with Grandpa. I learned that I needed to respect my Mom and listen to her when she says something. This is something I have never forgotten.

Every week I play basketball with some guys from the neighborhood in a local church. There are times when some youth from the area play with us. Last night was one such occasion. The young man had to be in 9th grade and was pretty good. We play from 8:30 to 10:00PM which gets us a decent amount of exercise. We were playing our last game when a woman comes in and sits down. I was wondering who it was and then figured out it was this youth's mom. At 10:05 the mom stands up and walks to the door of the Gym and calls her son and says it's time to go. The youth was on my team and I was bringing the ball down the court. I looked at the youth and he was going to play on. I stopped right where I was and said "No, when Mom says it's time to go, it's time to go." I stopped dribbling (we were playing with his ball) and started walking to get my stuff. No one else said anything (most of the guys are fathers). The youth's mom thanked me for backing her up. I can only hope the young man got the point and will remember this moment as I remember that time with my Grandpa.

A Day for Baptism

2008-12-15T13:36:00.002-07:00

Saturday was a special day in our home. Our oldest son was baptized. This is a wonderful time for our family as we get to participate in an event that is significant to our religion. In our religion everyone is eligible for baptism when they are 8 years old. Levi turned 8 the first week of December and last Saturday was the day for him to be baptized. The process for baptism is pretty simple. The candidate (Levi in this case) meets with the Bishop of the ward (local congregation) and is asked some questions about baptism. Once the interview is completed the Bishop gives his approval and the baptism is scheduled.

In our Church men are able to hold the Priesthood and as such can perform baptisms. I have the privilege of holding the Priesthood and being able to baptize those that are eligible. I am also the first member of my family to be able to do so and this made this day even more special for me.

The day started a little worrisome. Levi actually woke up not feeling well. He did get sick at one point and looked at me disheartened and said "Now I won't be able to be baptized!". I looked at him and said we had a few hours before the baptism was to take place and that we would see how he felt. Levi rested and was feeling better when it was time to get ready. He had a new tie, new pants and a tie tack from his birth mother (you'll recall all our children are adopted) for the occasion.

When we arrived we went to the back of the church where the baptismal font is located in order to get our white baptism clothes. Levi was able to be baptized the same day as three of his friends and we all were getting our clothes together. After changing into our baptism clothes we moved to the Chapel where the meeting would take place. Levi's Grandpa gave a discourse on baptism to explain what baptism means and what would happen spiritually as a result of being baptized. After the discourse we moved back to the baptismal font where I had the opportunity to lead Levi into the water and perform the baptism. I have to admit it took me a minute to start as I got choked up when trying to perform the baptism. Once I had gathered myself I performed the baptism and it went flawlessly. We baptize by immersion meaning that the person who is being baptized is placed completely beneath the water for it to count. Levi was awesome and did what he needed to to ensure that we did not have re-do the baptism.

After performing the baptism we dried off and changed into our Sunday clothes. The ceremony was not yet complete at this point as we had one more piece to perform. Once a person has been baptized he/she is then confirmed a member of the church and given the gift of the Holy Ghost. Once all three baptisms were performed we went back into the chapel where one of Levi's friend's grandmother gave a discourse on the Holy Ghost. Then it was my privilege to confirm Levi a member of the Church and give him the Gift of the Holy Ghost and place upon him a blessing.

After all the confirmations were completed the Bishop gave a few remarks and then the meeting closed. Levi was very happy and we all congratulated him on his choice to be baptized. We came home where we had some friends come over who attended his baptism and enjoy lunch together. Levi also got some baptism gifts that he was thrilled about. One gift in particular was a journal that he could write in and keep his thoughts on life. Levi took the time to write about his baptism in it.

All in all it was a great day and I'm grateful that I could be a part of it.

Of Comedy and Courtesy

2008-12-10T09:07:00.002-07:00

So this week I went on a short trip to San Francisco (Richmond) California for business. The business meetings were great, the other parts of the trip? Well let's just say it was a real weird ride.

The trip was to start by leaving the airport at 8:40AM, I get to the airport with plenty of time and the first sign that this trip wasn't going to be normal should have been the gate change. Now this time of year you usually get a fog delay in San Fran and sure enough we got one. So we land a 1/2 hour late. While walking to the end of the terminal (I had to meet a colleague in the airport before traveling to the meetings) I passed a woman who was taking her phone out of her purse. When she did that I noticed a piece of paper fall out. I was going to continue when I noticed that the paper was colored and stopped to pick it up. Sure enough it was a $10 bill. I quickly caught up to the lady, tapped her on the shoulder and told her that she dropped this. She looked at me and said "Thank you that's sweet". I continued on hoping that she would do something nice for someone that day as well.

My colleague's plane was also delayed so I spent an hour reading in the airport. He arrived and we went to a restaurant in the airport to get some lunch since it wasn't being provided at our meetings. There was no host to seat us, but a server waved us in and put us in his area. We ordered some soda and then started to look over the menu. The server returned after a while and took our order. The guy was definitely going through the motions and was not attentive at all. This should have been another sign that this trip was going to be out of the ordinary. We headed out to see if a shuttle was available to take us to Richmond. The guy explained all the delays and we decided it would be more than an hour before we would get to our meetings and that wasn't an option. So we decided to take a taxi. We get to the taxi line and the coordinator points us to the first taxi in line. The lady driver was very talkative and was driving a "Green" car. She didn't know if our destination would require us to pay 1 1/2 times the meter rate but at this point we didn't have an option. She then programmed in the address of our meetings into her GPS system and headed out. At this point I have to ask if you've ever ridden in a bumper car at a fair or other amusement park? If so you'll know what our ride was like. The driver was checking the GPS to see the visual instructions and in doing so was wobbling the steering wheel which meant we kept rocking. It didn't help that the TomTom was telling her to turn left when the arrows were pointing right. We eventually get to our destination and were very glad to be out of that particular car.

Our meetings went well and afterward we headed to the hotel to check-in, put our stuff down and then head to dinner. I get to the desk to check-in, the guy wasn't the friendliest, but whatever. He tells me I'm in 1211 and points me to the elevators. On arriving at the room I notice that the room is alone, meaning the door to the next room isn't immediately next door as the other rooms were. I walk in to the room and notice that there is a flat-screen TV, a couch, two chairs and a 6 person conference table. There's one problem, NO BED! So I called down to the front desk and a nice lady by the name of Victoria answered. The conversation went as follows:

Me: I have a strange question, but where is my bed?
Victoria: Oh you're in the Parlor Suite sir, you have a sofa bed.
Victoria: Did you get your breakfast coupons?
Me: No
Victoria: I'll have some run up to you
Me: Thanks

Wait, I have a what? I'm paying $180/night for a pull-out bed? Unbelievable. Then I remembered that when I was checking in another hostess was telling someone that the hotel was sold-out for the night. I'm now stuck. So I head down and explain this to all my colleagues. Yes I got laughed at and yes it was deserved. Now I'm not tall, 5'9", but this fold-out sofa bed required me to sleep on it diagonally in order to not have my feet hang off the end. Needless to say that that night was not very restful.

The next day's meeting were fine, but my ordeal had not ended. We got a town car to take us to the airport and nothing weird happened during this ride to the airport. We ate lunch and then I headed to my gate for a long wait (airline wanted to re-issue the ticket to get me on an earlier flight and it was not worth the cash). Finally the time came to start boarding. While waiting for the flight a young lady and her daughter came and sat near me. I noticed her because she was limping. They called her name at the gate and came over and ordered a wheelchair for her. We are sitting right by the gate where boarding was to occur. The lady pushing the wheelchair arrives and this mom says that the chair is for her. The lady pushing the wheelchair laughs and begins to check her cell phone for the name of the passenger she is to take onto the plane. Needless to say I was miffed. I looked at the lady and said "that is for her" in one of my most disgusted tones. The lady looked and me and said "oh". She didn't even apologize to the mom! The mom thanked me and boarded the plane. I thought that this was going to be the last of the weirdness and non-courtesy of the trip. Mr. Murphy had other ideas.

The flight was not full, but I noticed right away that the seats were different colors in different sections. One section was a blue-gray color, this was towards the front of the plane. The back section had seats that were colored a brighter blue. The flight attendant gets on once the door is closed and explains that the gray colored seats are "premium" seats and that they cost more and that we were allowed to move seats as long as we didn't move from the blue seats to the gray seats because these seats "cost" more. I sat there and shook my head. Now this crew was not the greatest in the world. We take off and after a time the pilot rings the bell two times. This usually means that it is OK to turn on the approved electronics (can you tell I've flown often?). Anyways, I start to pull out my iPod when I realize that the crew has not made an announcement about the use of approved electronics. In fact they never did make that announcement. I waited until the drink cart started going up the aisle before turning on my iPod. The flight continued without incident and we land in Phoenix. The wheels hit the ground, we slow down and start taxiing to the gate. However the Crew did not welcome us to Phoenix, nor inform us that it was safe to use cell phones. Now I know that we landed after 10PM but still it was weird that the Crew did not make the standard announcements. Here I thought was the end of this strange trip, however there was one more thing waiting for me.

I get to the airport parking bus and take it to my stop. I'm walking from the stop to my car when I notice a pair of boots by a pick-up truck sitting there as if the person who had been wearing them had been lifted from them. Well this is an airport and strange things are supposed to be reported. So I went into a line that had an attendant for paying my parking. I explained what I saw to the attendant and where to find the boots. She thanked me and seemed a little surprised that someone actually reported something strange.

I got home and explained everything to my wife. What a weird strange trip that I think I will laugh about for days to come.

How Blessed We Are

2008-12-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

As many of you know our oldest son is high-functioning Autistic. With this comes various therapies including physical therapy. A couple of weeks ago he started a new physical therapy that involves riding and taking care of horses. Last Saturday I had the privilege of taking him to his therapy. This is where I realized how blessed we really are. You see having a high-functioning Autistic child is hard, but it seems to me to be a little easier than those who are not as high-functioning.

As he and I were waiting for his turn there was another young lady (I want to say 16 or so) was waiting. She seemed to be high-functioning Autistic and pretty well "mainstreamed". I could see Levi being similar to her when he gets to her age. At this point Levi went back to his therapy while I waited in the waiting room.

The next child to come in was a 12 year old boy with his mom and two brothers. He was less functioning than Levi. He did not say a word and was definitely more "difficult" to handle than Levi. I looked at him and looked at his mother with admiration. Here was a family who had struggled with this young man but that did not change the amount of love shown to the boy or the amount of love he has for them. I said a quiet prayer of thanks for the struggles I have with Levi.

The last child I saw was a girl about the same age as Levi. I do not know what her affliction is. She was in a wheelchair, did not speak, and was wearing a bib. However, she had the biggest smile on her face. She was brought in by her mother and the love between the two was palpable. I was privileged to sit by the Mother as she moved her daughter in front of her and began to play with her. The play consisted of moving her arms back and forth and humming. The girl's smile and the sparkle in her eyes are something I will never forget. I wondered what kind of struggles she and her family have had because of her condition. I also pictured their home and the love that exists there that makes this girl so happy. Again I said a prayer of thanksgiving for my struggles.

This experience and this time of year made me remember the blessings I have. How blessed my family is and the great opportunities we have to struggle and grow. Levi's condition does make things hard, but the examples I saw in an hour on a Saturday morning have made me determined to make those struggles a positive and to increase the love in our home.

Updated Blinston Method (FBS Week 14)

2008-12-01T15:53:00.002-07:00

Here are the rankings using the Blinston Method for Week 14 of the FBS season:

Ranking	Team Name	Ranking Percentage / Points
1	Texas	2.988 / 50
2	Utah	2.515 / 55
3	Boise State	2.42 / 55
4	Oklahoma	2.338 / 40
5	Florida	2.247 / 40
6	Alabama	2.165 / 58
7	USC	2.148 / 45
8	Texas Tech	2.094 / 38
9	Penn State	2.045 / 45
10	Ball State	2.035 / 55
11	Texas Christian University	1.756 / 35
12	Ohio State	1.634 / 30
13	Brigham Young	1.451 / 35
14	Rice	1.363 / 30
15	Cincinnati	1.200 / 23
16	Tulsa	1.142 / 35
17	Oklahoma State	1.096 / 20
18	Oregon	1.027 / 23
19	Western Michigan	0.9911 / 23
20	Michigan State	0.9764 / 20
21	West Virginia	0.9196 / 19
22	California	0.8154 / 15
23	Georgia Tech	0.8055 / 15
24	Oregon State	0.7938 / 15
25	Missouri	0.7596 / 15

As of today Texas would play Utah in the National Championship game. Some other notes from the data:

Strongest Conference: Big 12 with 5 teams in the top 25
Weakest Conference: The ACC & WAC with 1 team in the top 25

If there were an 8 team playoff we would see:

1. Texas vs 8. Texas Tech
2. Utah vs 7. USC
3. Boise State vs 6. Alabama
4. Oklahoma vs 5. Florida

A day of Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T16:43:00.002-07:00

The meal is over and so now I'm going to make my Thanksgiving day complete by thanking the people who have been most influential in my life.

The first person on my list is my wife. I don't quite know how to express the feeling I have for her, love doesn't quite do it. Admiration is a part of it. Awestruck is another of the emotions. She has helped me to grow into the husband and father I am today. She has supported me in every situation and has been there when I needed her. I come home from business trips and she is there; my comfort and my strength. To quote a Josh Groban song:

I am not a hero. I am not an angel. I am just a man. A man who's trying to love her, unlike any other. In here arms I am.

Josh Groban - In Her Eyes

The second person on my list is my mother. When I was very little she had the courage to seek after the truth and when she found it she hung on strong regardless of what others said. That strength has lasted throughout the years and has always been an example to me. When I think of where I would be today without that strength I shudder. I can only hope to be a similar strength to my children.

The third person on my list is my father. I don't ever remember him sitting me down to teach me about life. He did it through his example. He is a hard worker, who loves his wife and family fiercely. I learned how to be a man through that example. I learned what it meant to love a woman with all your soul. I learned how to treat others with respect but not to be pushed over. It's funny how you don't see that you're learning these things until you have a chance to look back.

The fourth person on my list is my maternal grandfather. Here is an example of a successful man who stuck to his principles. I had the chance in my teen years to be a golfing buddy to him. There were a lot of things that he taught me on the golf course about life while he was helping me with golf. He has a favorite saying on the course. It's an ancient Chinese proverb that I will share with my children:

He who play peeky peeky, play lousy golf!

There are other people I could list. For instance all those who told me I couldn't do something and it was I that proved them wrong. The girlfriend I had that showed me what a life with another could be like. The leaders in school and church who spent hours helping me and trying to teach a stubborn kid like me.

I love the people above on my list. On this Thanksgiving day I give them the thanks of a man who would not be nearly what he is had it not been for their influences in my life. I challenge everyone who reads this entry to do the same and make a list of the personal influences in your life and give them thanks.

Updated Blinston Method

2008-11-25T15:05:00.003-07:00

Here is the updated Blinston Method standings after Week 13 results from College Football:

Blinston Method Standings
Ranking Team Name Ranking Percent / Points
1 Texas 2.749 / 45
2 Utah 2.515 / 55
3 Boise State 2.12 / 50
4 Penn State 2.045 / 45
5 Alabama 2.000 / 53
6 Oklahoma 1.971 / 35
7 Florida 1.943 / 35
8 Texas Tech 1.888 / 33
9 USC 1.86 / 40
10 Texas Christian University 1.756 / 35
11 Ball State 1.635 / 50
12 Ohio State 1.634 / 30
13 Oklahoma State 1.542 / 30
14 Brigham Young 1.451 / 35
15 Oregon State 1.277 / 25
16 Missouri 1.268 / 25
17 Georgia 1.228 / 20
18 Rice 1.111 / 25
19 Western Michigan 1.047 / 28
20 Cincinnati 1.013 / 18
21 Michigan State 0.9764 / 20
22 Tulsa 0.945 / 30
23 California 0.8154 / 15
24 Oregon 0.7625 / 18
25 Iowa 0.7395 / 15

The bottom five:

116 Western Kentucky -3.466 / -65
117 Indiana -3.6 / -60
118 Tulane -3.615 / -70
119 Washington State -3.842 / -72
120 Washington -5.200 / -88

My Dilemma

2008-11-21T08:57:00.004-07:00

So I have a dilemma. You see I got some money for my birthday and now I'm trying to figure out what to spend it on. I'm a sports fan and a geek so I have lots of choices.

Sports Fan

As a sports fan I've really wanted to get a jersey of one of my favorite teams. I'm a soccer fan first and foremost, but I have five jerseys of teams from when I went to Europe in 2000 so I don't need another one. Next I'm a hockey fan. I grew up outside of Buffalo NY and therefore the Sabres are my favorite team. So naturally I would want:

Third, I'm a baseball fan. Since moving to Arizona the Diamondbacks have become my favorite baseball team. In that spirit I want:

Geek

I'm a geek. There is just no other way to say it. This means that part of me wants to get some Wii games with the money. Now I am a geek, but I'm also a Sports Fan and love to play golf so maybe I should get:

With the leftover money I could also get:

That would satisfy my sports and geekness to some degree. However, there is one more thing that I'm debating about getting. See I hate having to move things from one computer to the next so maybe I should get a portable hard drive:

I have a limited amount of money to spend so you can see why I have a dilemma. I don't know which thing I really want the most and I can't get them all. Maybe I'll leave the decision to tomorrow. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, I really need to figure out what to buy with the Barnes and Noble gift card I got from the parents of my soccer team.

College Football Rankings - The Blinston Method

2008-11-17T11:40:00.002-07:00

Once again it is time to publish the Blinston Method. As I did last year this is my take on who are the best teams in College Football. This year the Blinston Method has changed a little bit. Teams earn and lose points for winning and losing based on the following:

Home Wins = 5 pts
Home OT Wins = 3 pts
Road Wins = 10 pts
Road OT Wins = 8 pts
Home Loss = -10 pts
Home OT Loss = -8 pts
Road Loss = -5 pts
Road OT Loss = -3 pts

Once the points are added up they are multiplied by the average winning percentage of the teams played thus far. Note this means for instance that Utah's ranking does NOT take into account the winning percentage of BYU. So again the formula is:

Ranking = Total Points X Avg Winning Pct of Teams Played

So here are the top 25 teams in the Blinston Method:

Ranking	Team Name	Ranking Percentage	Points
1	Texas	2.749	45
2	Utah	2.065	50
3	Texas Tech	2.024	38
4	Alabama	2.000	53
5	Florida	1.943	35
6	USC	1.86	40
7	Boise State	1.840	45
8	Penn State	1.68	40
9	Oklahoma	1.543	30
10	Oklahoma State	1.542	30
11	Texas Christian University	1.446	30
12	Ohio State	1.43	25
13	Brigham Young	1.424	40
14	Missouri	1.268	25
15	Georgia	1.228	20
16	Ball State	1.220	45
17	Michigan State	1.118	25
18	Western Michigan	1.030	28
19	Oregon State	1.014	20
20	Central Michigan	0.9329	23
21	Rice	0.89	20
22	Tulsa	0.8473	25
23	Oregon	0.7625	18
24	Cincinnati	0.7006	13
25	Maryland	0.6816	15

This means if the season ended today that Texas would play Utah for the national championship.

The bottom five teams are:

Ranking	Team Name	Ranking Percentage	Points
116	Western Kentucky	-3.466	-65
117	Syracuse	-3.471	-55
118	Indiana	-3.52	-55
119	Washington State	-4.403	-75
120	Washington	-5.525	-85