"There are 2 things that I hate in this world: People who won't tolerate other people's cultures, and the Dutch."

(Quick Note: Uber respect and cool points to the person who names where I got that quote from).

I just want to start by saying that I'm not going to acknowledge the fact that I haven't posted in over a month, and by not acknowledge, I simply mean that I'm not going to give some lame, half baked excuse. I haven't blogged in a while. You still exist. See, everyone is happy.

But there are a few things which I feel compelled to discuss with you. Not because you care. But because its my blog. And I care. A lot. So with out further ado, here are some random things that are bugging me right now.

1.) For the first time in I don't know how long, I could care less about the baseball playoffs. I don't even have one once of care. Honest. I have no one to cheer for. I HATE all the teams in the AL, and the Quad A league (also known by some as the National League) has one legitimate player (AlbertPuljos) that's even worth watching. Usually, when my team(s) (this constitutes of the White Sox, Cubs, or Phyllis) don't make it in, I piggyback some other team and enjoy the show. But, I hate New York (this rules out the Mets and Yanks), I am required to hate the Twins and Tiggers (though, secretly, I think I may be cheering for the Tigers and refusing to admit it), can not stand the arrogance of A's GM Billy Beane, who if you asked him, invented baseball (so that eliminates the A's....and I also can't stand the fact that they are supposed to be the GREAT team each year, and choke every year.....they are like the Buffalo Bills (early 90's) of baseball, only they don't even get to the ALCS every year. This makes me mad.), and in Quad A, no one is any good at all. The Cards (whom I hate anyway because they are a Midwest "but everyone loves the (insert Midwest team name in here)" team) have ONE great player, who may be the best player ever when its all said and done. And oh yeah, they almost had the greatest season collapse of all time. Until the Astros (with steroid user Roger Clemens, sometimes referred to by me as "scum of the earth") chocked more and chocked first, but the Cards still backed into the playoffs (not good). Then there are the NL West teams....Which don't even peak my interest. At all. Someone should let these two GMs know that these old guys (see Kenny Lofton, Mike Piazza, Nomar, Greg Maddux, Hideo Nomo....) left their prime like 4 years ago. I'm just saying. So I don't care who wins. And that bothers me. I'm a sports fan. I should care. And I don't (so try and convince me that I should care and I just might pretend).

2.) Al Davis needs to die. Or get a terminal illness. Now. Ok, that is harsh. And by no means do I actually wish death or illness about, especially when it comes to something as trivial as sports. But, the man who once brought the Raiders into prominence is now the man who is driving them into insignificance. Singlehandedly. For those of you who don't know, Al Davis is the owner of my favorite NFL team, the Oakland Raiders. Al has done many good things ever since he has owned the team for the last 40 plus years, things that have made football into what we see today (and this is a fact; Al Davis, love him or hate him, is one of the 5 most influential people in NFL history). But, he wants to run the organization at the age of 5.2 million years old (ok, 70 something). Thing is, the game has passed him by. People no longer associated with the Raiders (because Al got mad at them) tired to warn him about signing this guy, or letting this guy go, or not hiring this guy and etc,etc,etc. But Al won't listen. And now, The Raiders have officially replaced the Clippers (who are actually good by the way) has the team in professional sports that could be good, but their owner is killing them. Why do you think Art Shell has a job right now? Because no one else wanted to work for crazy Al Davis. Seriously. 8 coordinators or college coach's could have made more money then they currently are, but turned down the job because Al Davis was involved. So Al hires a guy that hasn't coached in 12 years, and the last time he did coach, got fired by Al because he was a bad coach. See the logic in that one (neither do I!!!). I'm not saying I know more than Al Davis does, but the Raiders aren't this bad when I sim on Madden.

3.) I could care less about the NFL or MLB anymore. Know why? BECAUSE NBA TRAINING CAMPS HAVE OPENED! I realize I may be one of the 19 people in the world who care about this, but I do. And you know why? Because my Houston Rockets are legit contenders again. Honest. Check this out:

Caption: From Left to right: Shane Battier (Forward), Yao (Center) T-Mac (Point Forward) and Bonzi (Power Guard)

That ladies and gentlemen are Houston Rockets and they will play in a style that will not only be entertaining, but that will win ball games. We traded Rudy Gay and Stromile Swift and all their potential (which, remember, Derrick Colman had potential too) to the Griz for my favorite Dukie of all time, Shane Battier (so you can get me and #31 Rockets jersey for Christmas Mom). The signed Bonzi Wells to a 2 year $5 Mil contract, which is a steal considering his talent. We traded a 2nd round pick for Kirk Synder. We got a guy whose name I can't spell who was the key go in the Greece offense that beat Team USA in the World Basketball Championships this summer. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, we have the best 1-2 combo in the league (T-Mac and Yao) back strong and healthy. We can run with the Suns by moving Battier to the 4 (ala Shawn Marion). We can pound the ball like the Spurs. We can run and gun with the Mavs. We can beat the Knicks by 40 (ok, insignificant I know). I'm actually cutting short my preview because I know that in all reality, you aren't even reading what I have written (if you want more in depth analysis on ANYTHING NBA, please let me know and I will be happy to discuss them with you). Thing is, my team is back, and I'm ready to roll (when Yao and T-Mac both go down, I finally realize all of Shane's talents he doesn't have, Bonzi won't pass the ball, Kirk Snyder tries to punch out Coach Van Gundy, and Mt. Mutumbo is the best player on my team, just share in my hurt please).

Climbing like a 65 year old woman.....

Well, there has been some time passed since the last time that I've shared publicly about my discovery, but much has happened. Since then, I went home for few days, hung out with my brothers, worked at the greatest camp in the entire world (Faith Baptist Church Camp), picked up my girlfriend from the airport to hang out with my family (MANY stories from that one, but I'll spare you unless you're interested...Let me tease you though, the funniest thing happened that proved my grandma is crazy....She tried to convince us that nomes are real. I'm not even kidding). But what I really want to focus on at this time is how much my life has changed over this summer.

I don't think I can do adequate justice by a simple (or in my case, lengthy) post, but I will try. Basically, the LORD had to break me (which he did) in order to restore me (which he did). He had to show me my areas of weakness (which, I found out, was 2 core things I struggle in) and have him remind me that I'm not useless, but am plenty talented in other areas and can still minister successfully insipid of prior actions (which, he really, really showed me).

But still, that's not what I'm here to discuss. One of the messages that Dr. Casey (this year's camp speaker) focused on was our spiritual climb. Some will look up and say its to difficult when they have just begun. Others will get to a certain point and decide that they can no longer continue. And still others will never be satisfied and will continue to climb.

And that's where the story begins. A point that seemed to cary in camp was not a challenge to climb (though we should), but a challenge to help others climb. Just before he came to camp, Dr. Casey was on a Missions Trip to South Africa. On that trip, he went mountain climbing, something he loves to do. He showed pictures of the view from the top of the mountain that he was able to see because he made the climb. But as he was climbing, Dr. Casey started to get tired. He started thinking to himself that he had gone far enough, that he could see a good enough view from were he was. Just as he was thinking that to himself, a 65 year old woman passed him coming down the other side of the trail. She looked at him and said "Keep going, I've never seen anything like that. Its worth it."

And that's the push. In our spiritual lives, how often do we share with each other whets going on in our lives? How much do we push each other for our spiritual climbs? I know, that in all honesty, I have not been. I don't know that I really check up on others spiritually and how they are doing all that often. Yet, I know others have done this for me (even when I don't want to discuss it).

So here is my promise: I want people to be able to call me the "figurative, spiritual 65 year old woman" in people's lives. I want people to say, when my time on earth is done, that I pushed them spiritual so that they came to better knowledge of Christ. But this is where you come in reader: keep pushing me. I'm not yet that strong to climb all by myself, and I'm not up the mountain all that far.

Alivn, Simon......Slimadore?

Have you ever come across the idea that some tv show character or personality is just like you? Or even that the character themselves is based off of you? Well, a LONG time ago,

Melissa MacNeal (http://melloland.blogspot.com/2006_02_12_melloland_archive.html) addressed this issue. And a few days ago, I discovered that I too had the same problem.

I am Theodore Chipmunk. Or maybe, he is me. I'm not sure.

A few days ago, while working another 13 hour shift, I began jamming out to a "Alvin and the Chipmunks" album of somekind that was on my Ipod. How it got there is up for debate, I'm not actually sure. In the middle of one of the songs, Dave (the leader/Father figure of the Chipmunks) is going throgh and speaking to each of them on how they did on the first verse.

Dave: That was very good Simon.

Simon: Naturally.

Dave: Very nice work Theodore.

Theodore: (annoying giggle sound that sounded very familiar)

Dave: Alvin you were a little flat, so watch there on the second verse there Alvin........um Alvin......ALVIN!

Alvin: OK!

To you, this may have just been the Chipmunks being themselves. But I'm telling you, I am Theodore Chipmunk.......and my brothers are possibly the Chipmunks (Josh as Simon, and Jay as Alvin) as well. The comparisons there are amazing: Jay was always the trouble maker who dragged us in with him. Josh was the brilliant one who just knew stuff that no one else heard off.

Anyway, here is the profile on Simon (http://www.chipmunks.com/bios.php) if you want to read it. Instead of reading Theordore's name in there, put my name in. I'm telling you we are the same guy. And we both have the same laugh.

Distractions….

Hello to all my faithful readers. I am sorry that our time together has not been as fulfilling on my part. Things have been slightly busy over the past few weeks. I also did have a post written and tried to post it. However, when I went to do the Blogger spell-check, it came up as a pop-up (which are blocked by MBBC’s filters or something). I tried to temporarily allow pop-ups so as to correct my numerous grammatical mistakes. However, once I did that, for whatever reason, my entire post (which I had spent 45 minutes working on) was deleted. I was not happy. I wanted to punch a hole in a screen. But I refrained. I stayed cooler than the other side of the pillow (thank you, Stuart Scott). I began working on a new post. But before we jump into that, I just wanted to say that I have been working an odd schedule and internet time has been limited. But there has been another distraction in my life.

The past 2 weekends, I had the opportunity to spend time with my girlfriend.

Now I know what most of you are thinking (if you even kept reading to this point). That this is going to be one of those sappy posts and you are probably going to feel the need to vomit before the conclusion of reading this. With fair warning, there is potential for that. I’m not going to promise that this won’t be, but I’m not going to say it will be. This is what it is.

Last weekend, the McCarnan’s were kind enough to allow me to drive with them (actually, I drove on the way there while they napped) up to Northland for the “Freedom Celebration.” I’ve never been up to Northland, and, I did have a little bit extra motivation to visit this time. I had a great time. I got to meet all the people that Chelsie has referred to over the phone during conversations, got to hang out with my home boy Luke, got to hang out with other friends that I haven’t seen but missed over summer from school (this means you Clint, Em, Nic, Nik, Bobbi, and Micah), and also got to meet some people whom earned legendary status, though, we had never actually met (read: Ryan Berg).

I had a blast. But I didn’t do much. I must have made a billion “drinking the kool-aid” jokes to Emily (though I never did have a glass when I was up there……disappointing), went to the (Red) team and staff meetings, and just got to hang out.

This past weekend, Chelsie got to come down and visit for a short amount of time while coming with other who were visiting from Northland for Bobby & Val’s Wedding reception. She got here at like 5: oo PM on Sat, so that didn’t give us a lot of time. But sometime is better than no time. We went over to the Werner’s house to go to Ben’s party type thing and hung out there for awhile. Then we came back to go ‘ol Watertown and dropped her off at Naomi’s house. Sunday was filled of church, Moe’s, church, wedding reception and a little bit of hanging out in the basement watching DVD’s in the afternoon. Then she left again. And that’s cool. I had fun for a few hours.

Here’s the big news: She’s coming home with me for a few days. It’s kind of scary. I mean, meeting my family. I’ve been trying to hid them, but to no avail. Actually, it’s not that big of a deal. There really is nothing to worry about. My entire family will like her simply because she is a girl (I’m not kidding about that really). I’m really just delaying the inevitable. I’m scared to death to go visit Minny. I have like 0 desire…..my fear is completely overtaking any joy that may come out of a visit to the Twin Cities. I mean, I realize that I have to go eventually. I’m just in no real hurry. I kind of like it the way it is now: hanging out at Northland, in Watertown, and at my house.

O Brother(s) Where Art Thou?

I miss my brothers. That's all I really have to say. For whatever reason, I miss them at this time of year than any other time of year. Yeah, Christmas and Thanksgiving and other times are spent with your family, though they usually are more concentrated on other areas (like the reason we celebrate that holiday). But for whatever reason, the summer months is when I really miss my brothers. For the first time since I've been alive, I won't be watching the NBA Draft with my older brother's. We have just always had some sort of unspoken tradition. I brought the pizza, he provided drinks and a big screen TV and surround sound (which came in handy when my Rockets selected Yao Ming with the #1 overall pick a few years ago). We would sit there and just soak up the basketball, the conversation, and the ability to make fun of our younger brother Josh. The past two years Sarge (that's his new nickname we gave him) has been off at boot camp and various such things. We just make fun of him because he doesn't like sports and would rather watch anomie. But the conversation could quickly turn into why I'm the black sheep of the family:

Josh: Your a pansy.

Me: I am not.

Jay: I think he's got a point.

Me: Why because you 2 and dad have motorcycles and I refuse to even get on one?

Josh: You are scared of bikes. So yeah, your a pansy.

Me: I am not scared of them.....Well maybe Dad's because you know how he is about his Harley. But I'm not scared of motorcycles.

Jay: You want to go for a ride?

Me: No. You know better. Stop asking.

Jay: Fry (that's my nickname at home), the bike weighs at least 3-4 times more than you do. You won't fall off.

I miss that. I miss the being made fun of in a way that only brothers can get away with. Josh and Jay were both ridiculously smart. Josh was actually my "tutor" in chemistry, Physics, and Algebra.......Even though he was 2 years younger and hadn't taken the classes yet. This is the same kid, whom when he took his Army apptitdue test, missed one question. Not bad. But he went into the recruiter's office, told the recruiter which question he missed, told the recruiter the right answer and that he had pressed the wrong button. Josh is an evil genius. He has so much talent and itelligence, yet, all he wants to do is be a grunt in the army. Don't take that the wrong way. Its not you are an idiot if you are a grunt. But traditionally, they but the less intelligent guys out on the front line. Josh just wants to "blow stuff up "(he has said that about a million times). The army has decided that Josh will become an engineer.

Jay could have done whatever he wanted. He was just naturally smart. He never really gave much effort, but he always did well enough. He could have went to college, but had no desire to do more schooling (nor does Josh). Yet Jayson remains one of the most influential, intellectual people I talk too. I'm almost certain that my love for political books and sports books (you know, that "non-fiction" genre thing) comes from him. I don't think I've ever seen him read or have a fiction book in his library (and if you saw his book collection, you'd know it rivals the local library). Jay really is one of, if not the brightest person I know.

I miss the cookouts with our extended family on which all our cousins would join in on the "Josh Bash." I miss Jay calling me up and saying, "want to go see a movie?" and then paying for it (I miss that a lot). I miss Josh coming home from work and saying "I want Chinese food. You want to go? I'll buy." I miss going over to Jay's house with Josh to play Halo, only to realize how terrible at video games I am. "Fry, you might be the worst Halo dude ever. You just lost to my 5 year old. Did you stop trying or what?" And so, I was forced to order and go get (but not buy) pizza from our favorite restaurant: A&M. But, that's just one of those dumb things we would kind of randomly do.

Sorry for the babble. I'm not sure what else (or what I'm actually trying) to say. I just miss my brothers.

What I've been up to lately....

Well by popular demand (from Steph Davis, (by the way, yeah, you can add me to your links, I'm not going to be offended; I'll wear it as a badge of honor) and by virtue of the fact that I have time and the internet (yes, its true folks, even when School isn't in session, I'm hanging out there to use the internet)) I will know inform you all of things that have been going on.

First, I read on Ryan's blog a few days/weeks ago about how he was disappointed that "West Wing" was going off the air, how it was good TV, if your are a Liberel's Liberal (ala Martin Sheen, good cast job folks) or a Sean Hannity conservative, this was good show. I can't comment, because I've never really seen it. But those whom I trust their opinions on these things (I'm counting Ryan as one of these people by the way) all say the same thing: its a great show because its about the lives of those around the White House.

That brings me to the point of what I'm about to say. A few years ago, you all missed out on one of the best shows (my favorite of all time infact) that was ever on TV. "SportsNight" was the original "Dramedy." Half comedy, half drama, always making me want next week's episode. I know what you are thinking, the only reason I liked the show was because it had to do with sports and what it would be like if I were a Sportscenter anchor, my dream job infact. Well, I say your a moron and here's why: I got the McCarnan's hooked on it. I have the DVD box set (there are only 2 seasons) because a friend who also loved the show bought the set for me. During summer school, Luke broke out the DVD's just to watch something and to kill some time, ended up loving the show. I began watching again with him, remembering why I liked the show so much. Matt didn't get into right away, but for whatever reason, got hooked on it too. Matt and I finished both seasons a few days ago, and are suffering from withdrawal. Its drama. Its comedy. It was awarded "T.V. Guide's Best Show You Not Watching" Award both years. Its a shame no one watched, I could really use some more episodes. Dan Rydell (one of the anchors) is the best character in all of fiction. I'm not even kidding. I've argued about this with my English Major girlfriend. She suggested some dude from "Pride and Prejudice," which made me reminder her that we don't live in the 1800's anymore, and that Dan is cool. If anyone wants to borrow "SportsNight" from me so you too can experience the man known as Dan Rydell, let me know, I'm willing to share.

On a sports note (skip this paragraph if you don't care), I think I've got a fever, and the only prescription is a World Cup Championship for Team USA. It won't happen, because no one will come close to Brazil, but its a dream. Actually team USA won't even make it out of their grouping because of losing to the Cz Rep yesterday, 3-0. They now must beat Italy and Ghana. And oh yeah, Italy is like, good or something. So my soccer obscene will be over shortly, then we can get back to more important things in life, like just about anything else but soccer. But I have 2 quetsions regarding team USA: 1.) I've typed and talked about Team USA so much, that I want to know why we didn't just send over the Mighty Ducks. I think Emilio Esteves could have coached these guys. Maybe I'm crazy. (2.) How is Freddy Adu not on this team?? Isn't he supposed to be like the best player in America, despite being like 16 years old? How did he not make our national team? How is this possible? Ok. I'm done with soccer for now.
Onto basketball, where I completely missed the best NBA playoffs since......well, possibly ever. The Mavs are just killing the Heat right now. But don't worry, that will change. Dwane Wade will take over in game 3, Miami will win 2 out of 3 at home, and Dallas wraps up the series in 6 games at home. Book it.

I also saw the Camp Team head off. I don't know why. I felt odd, and I think I made them feel awkward. I don't really have more to add about that.


FINALLY, its official. I am now a Humanities Major (Letters Emphasis), History minor and coaching concentration. I have 50 credits to take, and I'm done. 2 years. Here's the thing that may stir up some controversy: 3 years ago, I decided to come to MBBC rather than go to Clearwater. Clearwater had a major that I really liked and wanted to do: Sports Management. Basically I'd learn how to be a general manager, athletic director, scout, coach and other stuff involving sports. DREAM MAJOR for me right? Seemed so. So why did I choose MBBC instead? Honestly? I thought it was selfish of me to want to do that. I figured that if I wasn't in some form of full time Christian service (like teaching, because I really am not led to preach), that I wasn't really doing the will of God. So I forced myself to do something that I thought would be fun, I'd be marginally successful at, and I could be in some form of Christian service. Now, I somewhat regret not going to Clearwater. I know the Lord's purpose was at hand through all of it. I came to MBBC and met some great friends (I'd be avoiding the truth too if my girlfriend went unmentioned here), faculty and staff, and a great church home. From that perspective, that's what made the decision right for me. That I got to meet so many Godly folk and influences on my life. But did I really avoid God's will for my life? Its such a complicated topic, I don't know what I really think. That's why I'm looking for help/answers/opinions. Right now, my plan is to graduate from MBBC in 2 years with my humanities degree and get master's in Sports Management from somewhere (right now, it looks like an online Masters, which is just scary). I don't really know what else to say right now. Leave me some comments or something friends.

Random Happenings:

Back by popular demand, here are a few random things that I've been up to instead of posting:

--I'm working. A lot. Leave me alone.

--Percussion tourn ends Sunday night(meaning Chelsie gets back). I'm very happy.

--I still don't know whats up for my job situation this summer. I may go home (if something open up in the next like 2 days) or I may stay here (by default/by potential of getting a raise for vatrious cirumstances, but not holding my breath on that one).

--I have a lot of school work I should be doing right now. Instead, I'm blogging. I sacrifice for you people, you know that right?

--The greatest NBA playoffs in recent memory are taking place right now. And I haven't seen more than 10 minutes of it (I fell alseep watching Game 4 of Miami/NJ a few Sundays ago). The Sports Guy has written several very good articles about this. I almost wrote an entire post about it, until he got paid to write what I was thinking. That worked well.

--I'm actually starting to get giddly excited about the World Cup. This is disturbing to me considering that I don't like socer. At all. Why am I excited? I don't know.

--I'm thinking about switching to Humanities (Letters Emphasis). Any suggestions/Advice? Why you ask? Well, I started thinking one day (awhile ago) that I don't actually want to teach for all my life. I don't really have a plan or any idea what God really has for my life, but I don't honestly believe that teaching is there for the majority of it. Maybe I'm wrong. I really don't have a clue.

Thats all for now, I have to go read a book and write a 5 page paper on Brazil.

The Ripple Effect...

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2006 was simply the worst day of my entire life. Think about that for a second. I have. And I've had some pretty crappy days too. Like when I watched my little brother get hit by a car (kind of my fault, but still not as bad). Or the day when I watched my older brother get into a car accident. The list could go on.

unequivocally, nothing I had ever done had ever effected so many people. I screwed up big time, there is no getting around that. And it was definitely something I had caused.

Let me start at the beginning. This semester has just been simply insane. I was taking 15 credits (not that many I know), class president, actively involved with my extension church an hour and a half away, working nearly 40 hours every week, and I had begun to start dating a very lovely young lady. My time was gone. It was nuts.

The problem came in when my school work started slipping a bit. I wasn't as focused on it as I needed to be. I was being driven by other (not wrong) activities. Trying to pay off the school bill, serving in church, doing the best class meetings we could, and keeping my new found relationship in order. The school work, I decided, could just kind of be there, and I'd get to it when and if I could.

Well, before I knew it, project due date came, or, at the time, was quickly approaching. There wasn't much due, except in one class, which I hadn't been keeping up with very well. American Constitutional History with Dr. Perdue. We were taking indepth look at the Constitution and supreme court case decisions that affected how we interpret the constitution today.

Assignments over the course of the semester included analyzing specific court cases indepth. 6 or 8 were assinged over the semester. Well, I didn't really keep up with them and decided I could just turn them in with the project.

The project itself consisted of outline a chapter in the second book, analyzing a court case at the end of that chapter, and writing a 5 page summary about what I had just researched. By 5 A.M. on project due date, I had all the court cases done and caught up, I had the outline and the special court case done. All I needed to do was a 5 page summary on something that I had just spent the last 36 hours researching like nothing I had ever done before. Piece of cake right?

Should have been. But it was 5 in the morning. I only had about 4 hours of sleep in the last 36, and my mind wasn't quite working the way it normally would. Needless to say that my judgment was impaired (but, again, this was my fault).

So I did something that I don't remember doing, but I clearly did. I turned in something that wasn't my work at all. I blatantly took something off the internet and turned it in with my name on it. I don't know what I was thinking, or how I rationalized it in my mind. I cheated and that's all there is to it.

Last Tuesday is when I got caught. I shudder to think about what would have happened had Dr. Perdue not have caught it and turned me in (as he should have; I hold no contempt for him, he did what was right, rather than me choosing to do wrong). After I took my last final, and Dr. Perdue hated out the assingments we had turned in just a week earlier, he told me I needed to see him later. I thought it was no big deal, that I probably wasn't doing well in the class and he wanted to know how he could have helped me. Then I looked through the package of stuff I turned in, and there with my plagiarism work was printed off a copy of the website I taken it from. I think at that point, my heart stopped beating. I honestly couldn't remember doing that. But I also couldn't remember writing the paper either. The reason was clear: I didn't write it.

I was really shaky the rest of the morning. I didn't know what to say or think. People could tell something was wrong, but no one knew what (because I wasn't saying anything....at all). Then Mr. Richards informed me off my academic DC meeting at noon. That's when I knew that not only was I in a good bit of trouble, but I also was affecting a lot of people.

that's what happened too. My decision affected WAY more people than just me. Though I did the act out of stupidity and selfishness, the consequences affected more people than I could have ever realized.

---I couldn't be student body president anymore
---I couldn't be an RA (or a PC for that matter) in the dorms
---I probably won't be able to go back to Faith in Plymouth because of being on disciplinary probation
---I couldn't travel for and represent the school (meaning no camp team)

I let a lot of people down, that's what hurts most. I let down every faculty member and student here at school. I've let people down at my extension and home church. I let my extension group down (I have the car for next semester). My parents haven't condemned me, but, I know they are disappointed (wouldn't you be?). The ofcourse there are you guys, my friends. I've let you go on thinking that I'm a good guy or some bunk like that.

What I'm most disappointed about is letting down Dr. Harrison and my fellow Camp Team members. I've been looking forward to this summer since October. Now, I'm stuck in Watertown cleaning office buildings. We've worked on stuff all this semester, songs and games and whatnot. While it won't be that hard to replace me (I wasn't carry any of the songs and the skits aren't really that hard), the fact is, they shouldn't have to look for anyone. Now they have a month to try and find someone to fill in, if at all. (I guess a positive outlook though guys, finding clothes for Person X will be a lot easier than it was for me).

I'm sorry. That's all I can say. There is nothing else I can do. No matter how many times I say that though, its still there, and it doesn't change anything. I made a terrible choice. Now others have to suffer through the consequences of my actions.

I threw the stone into the lake, and now the water is rippling....

Weekend Wrap-up.....

Some notes from this weekend, and a promise of a future post.....

--first, my extension church is awsome. No doubt about it. They gave us all (there is 7 of us) like love offering this weekend for all the stuff we did. Not that we did it to get paid. But they did it anyway. Did I also mention that they also feed us and give us homes to stay in every afternoon? Yeah, I feel like a jerk at church sometimes because I defly have done nothing to deserve any gifts from these kind folks. And don't let me forget to mention the teens bought at the coffe shop tonite. I love me some Frozen Hot chocolate. Yes I do.

--Don't eat Taco Bell 3 nights in a row. Don't eat it 2 nights in a row. I would recomend only eating it in extreme circumstances. Just trust me. (I did not do this, but I know someone who has).

--The annual Leland Campout was held this weekend. I hate camping. But I went due to guy purposes. Loved it a ton. GREAT TIME!! Maybe I'll share more later.

--I hate white gloving. Oh yeah, I haven't started yet.

--Kobe Bryant is the best basketball player right now on the planet. No doubt. If you think differently, you are wrong (its ok that your wrong, you just need to know that you are wrong). This guy is amazing. I haven't seen one player take over a playoff game like this since some guy in Chicago wearing #23. By the way, I think I also sold my soul this weekend.

---durring the game, I also provided 2 quotes of the extended time period, which I may elaborate later on. it was good stuff. Jeremy and Clint couldn't stop laughing. I was being serious when I said it, they said that's what made it funny.

--Post coming tomarrow after the Camp Team/other ensambles who don't matter (kidding) dinner/meeting thing. It'll be a long one, and a tad emotional about someone who is leaving me (and no, it's not about Chelsie, so shut up and read it.)

.....until tomarrow

Some quick random musings about stuff you don't care about....

You are being warned now, only read this if you actually care about my opinions of the NBA. If not, don't read. Don't complain to me later either, that what this warning is for.


Well, the NBA season wrapped up last night. Playoffs are set. I'll predict a little later. My award picks:

Rookie of the Year: Chris Paul, PG, NO/OKC -If you think anyone else deserves it, you haven't watched basketball all year. And you are a moron.

Most Improved Player: Boris Diaw, UTIL, PHX- Well, I guess technically, this should just go to Steve Nash. No way is this guy that good without him. Went from being a random dude on the Hawks to random dude who got a triple double. Weird. By the way, I refuse to give this award to good players (ala Tony Parker, Lebron James, or someone who is already really really good). The simple fact is that good players are supposed to be good and get better. Giving them an award for doing that doesn't make sense. Giving the award to a guy who goes from being a random guy on the team to a solid contributor is what this award is all about. Congrats Boris!

Coach of the Year: Flip Saunders, Det- I hate saying this because I hate Detroit. But Flip is the man. He got them to score, without losing that D of theirs. Did you think they were going to win 64 games? No you didn't, you liar. The fact that they were on pace for 70 at the All-Star Break is incredible. This is hotly contended, but, I think Flip deserves it (especially considering that he never got any credit in Minny).

Sixth Man of the Year: Alonzo Morning, Mia-The idea behind the award is someone who comes off the bench and changes the game for his team. No one, I mean no one did that more than 'Zo did this year. There was many a time when the Heat played better (because of their D) with Zo in the game than they did with Shaq in the game. Mike Miller probably ends up getting the real award however.

Defensive Player of the Year: Andrei Kirilenko Utah- Have you seen his numbers? Amazing. By the way, this is also a guy who got a triple-double with 10 blocks (UNHEARD OF!). The only player in NBA history to have a 5X5 (think triple double, but with 5 categories and only need 5 of each stat.....again, UNREAL!). Ben Wallace probably gets it on his accolades, but AK47 deserves it.

Most Valuable Player: Kobe Bryant, LAL- I know what you are thinking. I hate Kobe too. But it doesn't matter. He simply was the best player who carried his team more than any other player. Nash can't get it because he couldn't guard me, and an MVP will make a stop in crunch time. Nash won't make that stop. Lebron has improved GREATLY, though there was that time in the beginning of the season when he was very unclutch. I just don't feel like Lebron dominated at all times. Dwayne Wade is who I wanted to pick. But he hasn't played well the past few weeks, and his team can go on without him, just not as well. With out LBJ or Kobe, the Cavs/Lake show isn’t winning 20 games, and would lose to the NY Knicks. So Kobe gets the nod over LBJ in my book. I don't have time to explain all my reasons why, but the Sportsguy convinced me last week. Click on his link on the side there and read his article about it. He's right in every aspect.

PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS:

EAST

Detroit over Milwaukee, 4 games
Washington over Cleveland, 7 games
Indiana over New Jersey, 6 games
Miami over Chicago, 5 games

Detroit over Washington, 4 games
Miami over Indiana, 5 games


Miami over Detroit, 7 games

WEST

San Antonio over Sacramento, 5 games
Dallas over Memphis, 5 games
LA Clippers over Denver, 6 games
Lakers over Suns, 6 games

Dallas over San Antonio, 7 games
Clippers over Lakers, 6 games

Clippers over Dallas, 6 games

NBA Finals

Miami over L.A. Clippers, 6 games
MVP: Dwayne Wade (the way it should be)

So here's the thing......

I'm not dead. Yet I know some of you are clamoring for my head because I haven't posted in a while. I understand this, I do. I know its not fair of me to demand you all post (some more than others) and than I don't post for random spattering of time. Please bear with me. This next week will be even crazier than the last few. I have several Dr. Perdue papers due, a Dr. Perdue project (indeed, you can only appreciate these assignments unless you've had this class), multiple tests (including a Dr. Perdue and Mr. Downs test), a 20 minutes presentation do next week and a whole assortment of other things. Oh yeah, I also forgot to mention that I work 40 hours a week dispersed between 3 jobs (though, my best job I have not been able to work at as much due to the other 2) and am highly active in my extension church (which is 85 miles away).

I'm not making excuses or looking for sympathy. This is all my fault for not budgeting my time properly throughout the semester. I realize too that this week will be vastly sleep deprived. Friday and Saturday are already gone and they haven't begun yet (Fri: class all day, state street all night; Sat: work LITERALLY all day (noon-4:30/5, 5:30-9:30???). I do have so much to say, and a very thought provoking post on the horizon. I know there isn't much time either before we all leave for summer ministries and abandon our Watertown bound friends (Dale, Wezer). Sorry to you all. I'm doing my best. I'll try and come up with something post project due date.

!NEW! Quote of the Extended Time Period...

Well, I promised something by Friday morning, and here we are, a full day early. There are some changes to the blog I'd like to make, but I have no idea how to make them. For all you techies out there, please help me. Anyway, on to the story of the new quote...

So Kent and I were talking briefly as he was leaving dinner last night as I was working. The topic of a specific new couple that had started officially dating the day before was the subject of conversation. I was trying to make the case, that certain people, under no circumstances should be allowed to date. At all. Ever. I'm not saying I should be the deciding factor in all this. But I am saying, that for the good of mankind as a whole, there are people who should never be allowed to date for the reasons listed as the fact that they could potentially have children, making our world even dumber and worse than it already is. And I don't want that. Let's pick up the dialogue.

Me: I don't Kent. I think I should get veto power. He's on my floor. Don't I get a say in this matter?

Kent: I don't think so Mr. Slim. This is a good thing. Think about: it just means that they can't get with normal people. They are both weird and are now with a weird person. This is only a good thing.

Me: I don't know Kent, I'm worried about future ramifications. I mean.....What if.....Well......

Kent: Are you worried about them having kids?

Me: Well, yeah. That's it actually. I don't think they should be allowed.

Kent: Well think about it Slim: someone has to be on "Cops" for future generations.

And that's when I all but fell on the floor, laughing hysterically. Good quote Kent.

I'm sorry....

I know there have been complaints (and threats to remove me from the precious "links" section from certain blogs) because of my lack of posting. I am sincelry apologetic for keeping you waiting. Things have been out of control busy for me lately (though I know they are for you all too) and I really have not had the time to sit down and post. I've started 2 that just have not materialized for one reason (time) or another (someone else posted the same thought on thier blog, because I didn't finish my thoughts in time). After Wedensday, I can breathe again, and will do my absolute best to have a post to you by Friday morning. Until then, let me put into persepctive how much time I don't have:

In every year since I could ever remember, I've watched every second of the Final Four weekend games, with the culmination being "One Shining Moment" (which is the best part of the tournament). This year, I didn't watch 1 second of the games. I can usually name the starting 5 for both teams in the Champ game along with a few players on the bench, and an assistant coach or 2. This year, I can only name 1 player on each team, plus the head coaches. Thats it. And it hasn't been because a lack of interest. I really think this has been one of the best tourny years ever because of the paridy. But I haven't seen most of it. And I'm bummed. I seriously have had no time. In a few days, I just might.

Death of a Legend...

***WARNING: THIS IS QUITE POSSIBLY THE LONGEST POST EVER. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED! ***

As those of you who know me (which, if you are reading my blog, is a good indication) realize how much of an obsessive basketball fan I am. And you also know that this time of year (March) is when I go insane.

(Random point I need to make: someone needs to clearly define when "March Madness" begins. People say "March Madness" and they mean the NCAA National Tournament. But there is so much leading up to that. What about the conference tournaments? What about the NIT? I seriously follow all that stuff, but only about 4 other people in the world do too. But technically, that’s when tournaments in March begin; meaning that the conference tourneys are signal the beginning of "March Madness" right? Right?) Back to my thought.

College basketball is an enumerable amount of time better than professional basketball (though I love pro ball too). The fans are better, way more excited. I think that’s because people can actually afford tickets to college games. There is also a community feel to the college game atmosphere. You KNOW these guys, you have class with them, and they live in your dorm. You don't get that person ability with pro ball, you just can't. And yet I digress.

You also realize (if you know me), that I am an HUGE Duke University Basketball Fan. There does not exist a finer program in the nation in any sport (ok, so I'm slightly biased on that one). You also realize (because of me talking about them) how much I hate the Blue Devils rivals, the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. This rivalry between Duke and UNC, I feel, is the best rivalry in sports. Nothing compares too it.....but more on that in a minute.

All of you, I'm sure realize now, I have a favorite player on the Devils. J.J. Redick. He is without question the best shooter I have ever seen in my entire life. This being J.J.'s senior year and all, senior night at Cameron Indoor Stadium (home of Duke's "Cameroon Crazies") was sure to be the place to be. ESPN had blow out the budget coverage of this years season finally, Redick's last home game, against hated rival North Carolina. ESPN was airing the game on ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNU (a pay per view service) and ESPN 360 (an online service), with 3 different camera angles (ESPN & ESPN360 showing the traditional view, ESPN2 having an "Above the Rim cam (which I thought was a neat view) and ESPNU airing the "Cameroon Crazies Cam"......which was quite possibly the coolest thing ever.....they stuck a camera in with the Crazies.....brilliant!).

The fact is, J.J. Redick is a legend for Duke basketball (notice, I do not call him a hero. Athletes are not heroes because they do not save lives, protect people's freedoms, or put their life on the line for their job every day.......but that’s another post at another time). Redick has more 3pt shots made than any person in NCAA basketball history. He is the all-time leading scorer at Duke (surpassing assistant coach Johnny Dawkins this season). He is also the all-time leading scorer in the Atlantic Coast Conference (the conference to which Duke belongs).

J.J. has always been the target of the harshest of cheers from opposing fans. At the University of Maryland, fans have signs of obscene things about him and his family. The curse in various chants that they do. If you look up "J.J. Redick" on goggle, 7 out of 10 sites will be about "hating J.J. Redick." Look up the "Sheldon Williams" (Redick's senior teammate) and he only has 1/3 the number of websites, much less the directed hate.

He is the object of so much hostility because of how well he performs. All the scoring records and the near flawless form make opposing fans (and some players) simply because of his excellence. His Freshman and Sophomore years he was known a bit for his trash talking and taunting of some fans. So maybe he had it coming. But his past two years, he has toned it down a lot, realizing how bad it made him look.

Why care so much about one guy who plays for my favorite basketball team? Maybe because he reminds me of someone who I used to love to watch to play........my older brother Jayson. His senior year of high school, we went to all his games, home and away. I have some very fond memories of watching my brother play. I remember when he played at Twin Valley, a team that had seemed to always have our number. The game started as normal. Jay was playing around the top of the key, as Twin Valley was in a zone, so Jay took a step back so he was bout 3 feet behind the line now. When he got the ball, TV's coach yelled out to his players "Don't go out past the 3pt line till he proves he can beat us." Well Jay heard that and took exception. He launched the shot, and hit noting but net. The next time down the court, still well behind the line, Jay hit another deep three pointer. 20 seconds later, same story. By the fourth deep shot he hit in a row, and LCA being up 12-3 at this point, Twin Valley's coach called a time out to try and restratergize. But the coach didn't call the TO until Jay looked over at him and yelled: "Go ahead coach, leave me open, I'll kill you single handedly!" Needless to say, as an impressionable 8 year old, I thought that was the coolest thing ever. Maybe there was the game against arch rival Mt. View were Jay scored 38 points, and hit a 3 (his 7th of the game) to put LCA up 9 with under a minute to go. Jay knew he was in the zone, but still couldn't believe it, and he looked at me, 2 rows behind the bench, and did the Michael Jordan "shrug of the shoulders." It may have been the game against High Point when his teammate and and smaller point guard friend Will, got taken out in a thuggish way. Jay stepped up, got in the guy's face and told him to pick on someone his own size. The "thug" was 6'4" and weighed about 250lbs. Jayson is only 5'8" and maybe weighed 175lbs.

I've seen Redick do these things. I've seen J.J. absolutely carry the team to victories (like against Texas this year where he hit 8 out of 13 3 pointers, scoring a career high 41 points onto a Win over the #2 ranked team in the country). Maybe it’s that when J.J. doesn't score, Duke can't seem to win, they are so dependant on him, and he gets open shots for everyone else.

But when Duke plays UNC, it’s a different story. Duke must win at any cost. The schools are separated only by "Tobacco Road" a mythical road that separates many of the ACC teams, but Duke and UNC by only 8 miles. Duke is a private school admitting only 8 thousand people a year, preppy in a way, with high academic standards. UNC is a public university with almost 20 thousand people attending, most of them being dumb redneck hicks out of the south (with the exception of my main man Guni Li.....I talk as though I know how these people in North Carolina are. I have no clue).

The Rivalry is huge. I think it is the biggest rivalry in sports. Even when one team is having a down year, the game will still be close. The last 14 games have all been decided by less than 5 points each. Carolina was supposed to be in down year. When Duke played at Chapel Hill, we were up 17. We ended up winning by less 5 after J.J. hit a clutch 3.

Being Senior night, being against UNC, and being J.J.'s last game ever in front of the Crazies...this was big. I had my Duke sweatshirt on, over top of my "Cameron Crazies" t-shirt, wearing my Duke hat (the outfit which my older broth calls "preparing for worship at the temple of J.J."). I went to the student center, prepared for Redick to score about 50 points, and a Duke blowout.

It started as I had planed. J.J. had 7 of Duke's first 13 points, going 3-3, with 1 3pointer. I was beside myself. Could my prediction of J.J. scoring 50 be true?

Well sadly, it all went down hill from there.....

J.J. went almost 30 minutes (remember, college games are only 40 minutes long) without scoring. And Duke lost. The freshman crew for UNC prevailed. What was supposed to be J.J.'s greatest triumph turned out his greatest failure (in my book).

His last few games he has struggled mightily. While shooting just 28% from the field (on the season, he's a 42% shooter) and just 22% from 3pt land (on the season: 37%). Maybe he is so tired from always going up against the best defender on the team every game. Maybe it's been all the media exposure, breaking the records (broke all 3 in the course of 12 days, each shot he took bearing weight because it counted toward the record). Maybe he is just losing his legs after a long season, for the 4th year in a row.

I'm not sure what it is, but I know the J.J. Redick I watched on Saturday night was not the same J.J. Redick (or recreation of my older brother) that I had seen before. Those first few moments of the game came so easily. Then after a timeout, everything just collapsed. He looked fatigued, he looked discourage, he looked like everything he normally did just would not work.

It’s a sad thing to watch a legend not be able to perform at the same level that made them great. There are so many examples I could give, yet, I know I've wasted all of your time just with this. My biggest problem is that J.J. is young and seemed poised to really carry this team and should be able to carry the team. But all this stress.......or something has just made it to much for him to do. The last 4 games leading up to this were a big indication. That's when the struggles began. It all finally culminated in the biggest game, seemingly at the wrong time.

The picture is from before the game started, when J.J. came out to acknowledge the crowd as they gave him a standing ovation for all the hard work he has done the last four years. The Crazies remained faithful even after the game, while J.J. seemed to be holding back the tears for letting them down, they still chanted "Let's Go Duke! Let's Go Duke!" just as they would before and after any game.

It’s just sad that we had to watch Superman interact with his kryptonite right before our very eyes.

My weird creepy cool crazy bad awesome Valentine's Day.........And Hayley....

Well, another Valentine's Day has passed, and no big deal to me really. I'm not really sure that it even counts as a holiday. I mean, the post office doesn't even have off for it, a clear sign of celebration. Not to mention, I have no idea what we are celebrating. I mean, who was St. Valentine and why do we send "notes of love" or whatever to each other on this day? I have no idea.

Anyway, I sent out a few select Valentines, 4 in total. 3 to some girls in a "mob" of sorts (all though, how fearful can you be of a group from Minny though, right?). The best one was the one I sent to my mom. I don't care if you think it's corny or whatever, but I told my mom how much I love her and how thankfully I am for all she does for me and for putting up with all my junk on such a consistent basis.

The day itself sent me searching for something that I wasn't all that successful in finding. I was trying to find a Valentine for the day. I'm not even sure what that means or what I was doing. But every guy I saw on my floor that morning, I asked if they would be my Valentine (well, they also had to have a girlfriend too, so I was like stealing them away or whatever). That was fun until I got ditched later in the day for the girlfriends.

I went to work in the dining commons shortly thereafter chapel. I asked Jen Landis (whom I've known for a while now) to be my Valentine. She said she would, knowing of course how goofy I was being.

Well 2 minutes later she re-voked her "Valentine-ship." She said she didn't want to upset Dan (her boyfriend). I was cool, but I hammed it up to be all hurt and stuff. Then she dropped this little tidbit on me:

"But you can't be anyone Valentine's because your no one's Valentine."

That hurt. It was mean and horrible. As soon as she said it, I dropped the container of hot cheese I had just emptied out. She apologized, but I'm still going to hold it over her head for awhile. She didn't mean it the way it came out, but, it was still kind of bummering.

This ofcourse sent me into a more panicked frenzied to find my Valentine for the day. I asked Brittany and she obliged with "ofcourse I'll be your Valentine Slimmy." Yes, she calls me "Slimmy."

I said something to Steph Davis. It was kind of neat because I hadn't seen Steph in several days because she was at the conference thing last week, leaving me completely devastated and alone........Or something like that. Infact, I told her "Steph, its so good to see you! I've been desuetude and alone while you've been gone!" She did the Steph Davis laugh (which is just great). Then I told her what Jen had said and Steph offered to be my Valentine.......I think. I don't really remember to be honest.

The best part of my day had to be when Hayley came up to me. I was working the deli counter, like a good worker is supposed to, when Miss McGrail came up to ask me a favor. She strongly desired that there would be some sherbert out with the ice cream. I told her I would say something to Rick and see what I could do.

Then something happened and I'm not sure what exactly. But some how, my "offer" got brought up (see the previous post about her recital). I think she thought I was implying that she would need to complete that offer if she got sherbert. I don't really know what happened exactly, but we laughed and it was a good time.

Well I talked to Rick, and there will be sherbert put out with the ice cream here in the near future. I told Hayley that today as she was getting some food in the dining hall as I worked. She responded by having an extremely excited look on her face, she raced around the lunch counter thingamabob, and proceeded to come on the side of the employee's to give me a "Maranatha Hug," which is semi-difficult to explain, but fully checkable in the rules. Then there was the relentless "Thank you so much" thing too.

I had no idea that she was that into sherbert. All I know is that I need to find some wholesale place that will sell like a 32 gallon drum of sherbert. That way, we know the offer would be completed.

hhhhmmmmm............Maybe I had a Valentine all along..........

Pray what you mean

Have you ever prayed for something or some situation and prayed that "the Lord's will be done" even if that meant that you didn't get the response you wanted? How do you feel when the Lord's will is not your will?

In June, it will be 4 years since I have known Christ as my personal Savior. The last four years have been interesting spiritually. While I struggle with many things (too many I'm afraid) one of my biggest struggles is praying. To be honest, I'm not really sure how to. No one has ever really "taught" me. I try and listen intently to how they pray. I'm very nervous about praying in front of people because I'm horribly afraid I'm going to say something heritical. But yet, I know its something I need to do more of, and by not praying more (and in public), my prayer life simply won't grow.

One of those things I always seem to hear in a prayer is that "the Lord's will" be done in (insert the situation here). The Lord's will is always perfect, and he knows best. Even when that outcome means the absolute worst in our human minds, the Lord is in control. For example, last semester when I had a former friend and teacher pass away after fighting cancer for over a year, I was confused as to exactly how the Lord's will was that in all things God works for our good. When Mrs. Swisher did pass away, her funeral at church was JAM PACKED with people that she had come in contact with from church, school, workers at the hospital, unsaved friends from years past, and unsaved relatives. Her unsaved friends and family and the workers that came saw something different in Mrs. Swisher's life. 17 people got saved at her funeral. Indeed, God does work everything to our good, even in death.

The past few days and weeks or so, I've been praying for several things, but one thing in particular. Well, all seemed right in my mind that the opportunity was there and it was what God intended. I finally prayed that "Lord, if this is the situation you have for me, make it happen. If its not you will, close the door tomorrow." Guess what happened? The door got SLAMMED shut. I was really confused, disappointed, and kind of hurt by the whole thing. I mean, didn't God want what was good for my life? Didn't he want me to be happy? Did Jesus himself say "Ask and it shall be given you?"

The answers are all resounding yeses. But I read through the Lords prayer (could there really be a better "prayer handbook?").

Mat 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

Oh yeah. So I shouldn't pray for the Lords will unless I really mean it huh? I really do want God's will, on a daily bias, but also on my entire life, that he could say, "well done, thou good and faithfully servant." I want to be able to look back at my life (Lord willing), (as Paul in 2 Tim did) and say that I have been on God's path.

Moral of the story: If I really want God's will for my life, day to day or long term, than I need to pray for God's will and actually mean that I want God's will. Even if that means I do get the "need" that I desire.

The stupidest thing in the !NEW! MBBC Dining Commons.....

Want to know something that absolutely annoys the tar out of me? Good, because I'm going to tell you.

I'm sure you have all been in the dining commons at some point in time when a worker has dropped some object (i.e. stack of cups, plates, bowls, etc.). Then, a room full of idiots claps.

Now I know not everyone in the room claps. But the ones who do clap are complete and total morons (and yes, I realize I am making a reference to some of my friends---BUT I DO NOT CARE!) .

Here's my problem: put yourself in that person's shoes. You already feel like a total idiot because you've dropped something infront of like a billion people that you know and now they are all clapping reminding you just how much of a clumsy idiot you are for being human and making a mistake.

It happened this morning and I was enraged. I told all the guys at my table to stop clapping because it showed their maturity level. I can't stand this, it's so stupid. It what way does this possibly edify or encourage others?

I'm not saying that you can't have a good time or laugh at something you or a friend did. But that's not what this is. This is just mocking someone else because they made a mistake; this is putting ourselves on some sort of higher pedestal to make us feel good that we aren't that person.

So next time you see someone drop something in the dining commons, don't clap, help them pick it up (quick point: I know some of you do this already. I know Bobbi Shepp has done it on more than one occasion and that people thought they were clapping at her; in any case, she didn't care and just tried to help someone out. Way to be the bigger person Bobbi).

Ok so Thursday and Saturday of last week, I had the privilege of being involved with one of (if not the) best recitals in Maranatha's history. I consider myself somewhat of an expert of MBBC Recitals because I am the unofficial-official "Fine Arts Recital Usher." Hayley's was top notch. This summer she traveled as part of an MBBC ensemble team with Nick Peterson, Ann Marie Fredricks (Poorman), Nathan Sutherland, Liz Stertz (Fain), and Jill Brewer (Canada) on piano. They even made a CD, nothing professional, but I have it and listen to it a ton. For the recital, they sang "By The Gentle Waters" (minus Mrs. Fain......That whole newlywed thing makes it tricky). Hayley sand a bunch of other songs too. The one she sang with her Father from "Beatuy and the Beast" was probable my favorite. But I really liked that "Diva" song she sang too (which is also the one she did for an encore). All in all, a very virtuoso perfuming and she did an excellent job. It easily ranks as probable my favorite performance to date (with Ann's and Yaffah's being a very close 2nd. Not that there's was bad. They were great. But I used in Hayley's (unlike Ann's because she was set already) and Yaffah's I didn't quite have the funny story quite like the one I'm about to share.)

Ok so here is the funny story: Hayley has this one song in German.....Or Latin........ Or French or something that was Un-American. The song was about how much she missed her proverbial lover (presumably he has died). She wants to hold him and kiss him and all that stuff because she misses him so much and stuff. So I asked Julie Kerr if I could suggest something to dear Hayley ( I told Julie what I was going to say). Julie laughed and told me it would be funny (then suggested something else that has nothing to do with this post).

So the night of the big performance came and Hayley was awesomely amazing. After her encore, I was backstage waiting for her to come back so I could give her the flowers I got for her. So I was told her to come back back stage (like on the steps before you would enter the gym). I was worried that she was going to laugh heartily and loudly that would disrupt Dr. J's prayer......Or smack me with something causing me to yelp loudly.

So we are backstage and Hayley says:

"So what did you need?"

Me: "Well, you know that whole German, or Latin or French or whatever foregin language song that wasn't American about losing your lover and wanting to hold him and kiss him and stuff?"

Hayley: Yeah (fill in the blank with a foreign song name here)?"

Me: Yeah I guess. Well, I just wanted to let you know that from now on, if you need someone to make out with, you don't have to sing a passionate song in public. Just give me a call and I'll be there.

Hayley paused for like a half a second before she burst out with laughter, knowing how stupid I was being (I think it was a funny story, no matter what). That half second though was somewhat perplexing. She had this look on her face that said 1 of 2 things. Either:

A.) I'm horrified that YOU would even suggest such a thing that included me. The thought that you think that you are in my league is comical to me.

OR

B.) I'm completely shocked that you of all people just suggested that. You have trouble talking to women in the general sense suggestion is comical to me.

I'm thinking it was (B.) knowing Hayley and by the fact that she said (after laughing):


"Ok. Thanks. Now I know who to call from now on."

Ok, maybe this story wasn't that funny to you. But I thought it was really funny because Hayley laughed too. She is really cool and did a great job. Great singer, awesome girl; thanks for the laugh Hayley.

!NEW! Quote of the Extended Time Periond (and quick notes)

Let me give you a quick run down of the actually phone conversation:

Mom: Yes, she seemed like a very nice girl.

Me: Thanks mom, you almost remember talking to her, for that I am proud.

Mom: No I remember her, she had red hair.

Me: No she doesn't. She has blonde hair.

Mom: Thats what I ment.

Me: Thats a big difference.

Mom: I remember talking to her, she seemed nice.

Me: Mom, you would say that about anyone. Seriously.

(this kind of has a point to it for future posting purposes. This part of the conversation was HYSERTICAL when I tell you about something in a post in the near future)

Dad: So are you like dating this girl?

Me: No. Why?

Dad: Why not. She's a girl. Thats a step in the right direction.

Me:Your not about to say what I think your about to say again are you?

Dad: Well do you have a girlfriend?

Me: No Dad, same news as always on the love life. Nothing.

Dad: Get a girl soon Johnboy.

Me: Why, whats the rush?

Dad: You better hurry or else they will run out.

Me: Did you just suggest to me that if I don't get a girlfriend soon, they will run out? Like since when did women become like a line at the deli counter? *DING* Your numbers out! Sorry, we are all out of women today, come back for more later. Dad you do realize that women make up like roughly half of the world's population right?

Mom and Dad: (laughing very hard).

Me: You also know that this is why I never send pictures home and more and why I don't like introducing you to my friends that aren't guys, and why I never ask you for any kind of advice on this stuff right? Seriously, I'm not even kdding about this. And stop asking Jayson {my older brother} to ask me about stuff like this at school, he actually doesn't care and tells me he is just asking because you two want to know.

Mom and Dad: (more laughter).

Yes, I need a girl friend soon, because you are all going to like disappear or something. Sorry ladies, I didn't know it was happening either. But for your own saftey, someone is just going to have to take one for the team and date me. Or not.

A post about Hayley's recital and other antics are coming soon (as soon as I get those pictures).

Mark Poorman:Borderline genius

Ok, so I'm officially nominating my friend Mark Poorman for the Nobel Peace Prize for making a discovery that has changed the course of human events. Sort of. Kind of. In a way almost. Well he told me something that I thought was completely ridiculous and he turned out to be 100% correct.

It all started like 2 years ago. Well for as long as I can remember anyway. The point is, for the longest time, Mark has been telling me that if I would gel my hair and not just let it look like I just woke up or just got out of the shower, that it would be a good thing. His point was that "girls would notice." I found this concept to be completely ridiculous until I did some science experimentation.

When I went home for Christmas break, I decided that when I actually left the house, I would gel the hair exactly the way Mark taught me (he showed me a method to use when I went on "date like activities" where I have to get all dressed up nice and stuff). I did it a couple of times when I went to church and hung out with some BJU/BBC/Tenn Temple friends. No big deal.

The morning of New Year's Day proved the first stage in Mark's genius. I had been out at my older brother's house hanging out with him until about 3 AM. When I woke up and got ready to go to church, I didn't bother to gel my hair (I didn't bother to shave either, but I had a goatee at the time, so I think that was ok). When I got to church, I walked in a saw a few friends chatting, so I Natalie went over to communicate with them. It got quiet when I got there after they had been giving me odd looks and whispering. Just before we all went in to sit with out parents or each other in the auditorium, my friend Natalie (whose transferring here in the fall from Tenn Temple. Be nice to her when she gets here; super cool girl) asked if I was feeling ok. I ofcourse was, just a little tired, but felt fine. She then followed up with "Do you have hang over?" I ofcourse was repulsed by the mere proposition that she thought that. When asked why she thought that she responded: "Well I dunno. You look all dishelveled and kind of out of place. And you didn't do your hair, you look really sloppy." Now I'd like to interject here that Nat is a very intelligent young lady, not some goofy dumb blonde (no offense, but I think you get my point). I was wearing what I always did to church and I looked fine (my mom complemented me out the door......Then again, she has been saying that every Sunday AM I've been home; "Aw Jonathan, you look so handsome for church this morning......All though I'm not sure that tie matches at all.")

I decided that Mark's theory needed to be further tested. So when I came back to school, I decided that I was going to gel my hair everyday for the first week. You should have heard the compliments I was getting from so many people. There were people (specifically some females) that I never even have really talked to that had come up to me that week telling me how nice my hair cut was. HELLO!! I'VE HAD THE SAME HAIR CUT SINCE I WAS IN JR. HIGH!!! All the sudden I gel my hair and I look nice? This is the stupidest thing I've ever heard in my life. I want all of you to know that.



But then again, Mark was right, so whatever works.

More tomorrow (a new "Quote of the Extended Time Period if I can figure it out!)

The Greatest Invention......

Ok, so yeah, I haven't posted in a few days. I know. My bad. There have been a few things at home that I've been kind of dealing with that still aren't really resolved. Anyway, an actually "quick" post from me.

I have discovered one of the greatest things of all time. For those of you who don't know, Sean Hannity is probablly my favorite pundit (political talker) ever. I own all his books (I have 2 copies of one of them......I don't know why), check his website on a fairly regular basis, and when at home, listen to his radio show EVERY WEEKDAY (his solgan: "3 hours a day, that's all we ask".....and Sean, I'm happy to comply). But here is the thing. Ever since I came out to school here in lovely Wisconsin, I haven't been able to listen to Sean. Very dissapointing.

Until now......

See, ever since I got this Ipod thing (which is just amazing) I found all these neat things I can do. One thing is called a podcast (props to Justin and Matt who introduced me to these things). A podcast is basically a radio show digitialized so that I can download it onto my computer and then my ipod. Well, the other day (Monday) I found "The Sean Hannity Show" podcast. I now listen to my main man Sean commerical free, just a day late (which I'm ok with).

Quick sidenote: because the down loads are commercial free, its not a full 3 hours, it's actually less than 2. Really cool. Back to the post:

I've also download HOURLY podcasts from CNN news. I get a 5 minute news blurb. Its like TV, only better. I love it. There are a couple basketball podcasts I download (because I'm a freak), plus other political pundits (Bill Maher....yeah, he is a flamming liberal, but he is funny and gives the view that I don't hear, something I need to better educate myself in). There are also some comedy bits we've got (need I say more than "Ask A Ninja?")

Matt started downloading podcasts. He's got a bunch of science stuff on my CPU, which is fine. But what's really cool is the 2 church podcasts he's downloaded (now on a regualr basis): Covenant Life Church and the BJU Chapel hour. Good stuff.

Moral of the story, I now rank the Ipod(with Podcasts) among the greatest inventions EVER


my list:

1.) Printing Press
2.) Cotton Gin
3.) IPod (with podcasts)
4.) the light bulb
5.) the automobile
6.) the game of basketball (thank you Dr. James Nasmith)
7.) Power Point (it helps me learn in classes.......I stuggle without it, I don't take notes well).

That's just my list, feel free to leave your own, or call me an idiot for whatever reason you might.

More, later...........

Welcome and Intro

Welcome to my NEW AND IMPROVED bl0g. Much thanks to Justin Jones to help me set up these links and stuff, because I'm an idiot and I don't know how to do anything like that. I like the backround and stuff. It gives a very "Declaration of Independance" feel to my blog. That is cool.

Quick run down of the new blog:

"The Quote of The Extended Time Period"
This is where I'm going to put random quotes that strike me in a particular fashion. They may be funny, they may be serious, they may even be something that you have said (in which case I will quote you). I didn't do quote of the day or week because I never know when I'm going to change it. A new quote will always be followed with the story behind the quote to throw in it context for you. Like this quote of the extended time period from Rick Majerus. For those of you who don't know, Rick Majerus is currently an analyst for ESPN college basketball games. He was one of my favorite coaches when he coached at Utah. He is funny, witty, a good guy whom the media, players and fans alike all loved. If I ever coached, I'd be like him (a hero of mine of sorts). The thing is, Rick had to stop being a coach because of all the stress involved and how bad is health is. The guy weighs like 450 lbs., he is huge. Thats a part of the reason this quote is funny; a big guy saying "I'm not a big Gay guy." But, durring half time of some game I was watching with my older brother, Majerus and Steve Lavin (another former coach turned analyst.........well he was just not a good coach actually) were talking about the potential of UConn Forward Rudy Gay (I have opinions on this matter myself if you care to know.....which I know none of you do). Lavin talked about how he thought Gay would be a good player. Majerus responded with "I dunno Steve. I'm not a big Gay guy." High comedy all around. My brother and I just burst out laughing. Not to mention, Steve Lavin also laughed at him. Its a funny quote.

"Sights Slim Sees"
These are websites and blogs that I visit every single day, sometimes more than once....usually more than twice. Let me give you a rundown of each site and explain why I like it and why you might enjoy it.

Bobby Endyk-- Bobby is a cool guy. He really needs to blog more, but we are working on that with him. The head usher here at MBBC is a solid guy who is a joy to be around. If you don't believe me, ask his fiance' Val, she'll tell you.

Chelsea Czidsc7qp-- I feel like a real jerk, because I know how to spell Chelsie's last name. I know how to pronounce it (she tells me it's "Chick-cry".....right?). So JJ and I decided to go with "C-z-random assortment of numbers and letters." It works. The English/Speech double major may be one of the few people at MBBC who will beat out my time of 6 years of undergrad work. Chels is also a member of the infamous "Minnesota Mafia" (check out the old school pictures of the gang on the blog.....my kids grow up so fast these days). I almost forgot to mention about her heritage: Korean by birth, Eastearn European by right, American through and through, desiring to be British. Somehow it all makes sense.

Clutch Fans--In case you didn't know, I'm an obsessive compulsive Houston Rockets fan. This website is where I get my Rox fix on all things Rockets. Its where other freaks like me argue about stupid things like "Does Tracy McGrady shoot too much in practice therefore making him tired for the game thus lowering his shooting percentage?" I didn't get into that debate, I'm not quite that hard core believe it or not. I just want you all to realize that there are bigger freaks than me out there. I know, scary thought.

Dave Marriott -- Dave is one of the latest additions to the blogging craze. He holds his own though. Lots of pictures, stories about dumb things, or how God is challanging him in various ways. Good guy, probablly going to church with us this semseter, good blog. Dave had this whole running gimmick about "hold the phone" in all of his posts, but someone told him it was dumb ( I won't mention any names) so he stopped. I liked it. I think he should bring it back.

Emiley Yogerst-- Even though I've only even began talking to Em like in October, its ok, because she's pretty cool. She goes to church with us too. She also counts as one of the few Mid-western peoples I like (I say few, but there is probablly a lot more than I'll admit). She gave a very good speech at her sister's wedding (so good, I almost teared up....almost) and she looked nice wearing all that pink (which I'm sure you loved that Em). She also loves Northland Camp. A lot. If you want to make her day, just ask her about why she loves it up there. She spent like an hour talking to me about it (maybe some day I'll make it up there). Oh, and don't let me forget that she is an El. Ed major. Ed majors are cool. She also has the most creative way to link me: "Slim, uh Messenger." Nice.

Hannah Kutz -- she is kind of my boss in the kitchen (don't forget though Hannah, Rick calls me the "Sandwich Czar"). She also helps serve the Jr. Class Vice President (I think that's what we call you.....I don't remember exactly). One of the 6 of us on the cam team traveling for the school this year. Camp team members are very cool.Also an El Ed. Major. Ed majors are cool. She should be on here by furtue of the fact that she has quoted John Adams on her blog and she lists Marv Munyon on her sites. I'm a Social Studies major and I don't do that. Very impressive. Now if only I could get her to list me on her website listing on her blog. Maybe I should drop a subtle hint in my blog. No I don't think that would work. Maybe I should just tell her. Maybe she'll just randomly figure it out. Who knows?

Justin Jones-- Justin gets mega props for many things. First, he is one of the few homeschoolers I like (quite the feat I might add). Plus he is also a hummanities major, and may someday convince me to change my major (all though Ed majors are cool). Don't let me forget that he helped me put this site together. Oh yeah, there is all that Excalibur stuff he lets me do too, even though I haven't been at a practice in like 3 semesters due to various circumstances. Also one of my Vice Presidents. He's traveling for the school for like the third time, but on a music team (ok, I'll say it just for you JJ: traveling members are cool). Justin also scores points because his family likes me a lot. I'm not really sure why, but they seem rather entertained by me (that youth rally was totally fun).

Matt Ledgerwood-- Matty doesn't get to post too often because he is bsuy working (at least he was busy working) at Ironwood Camp. Matt is a cool guy I miss seeing around and giving me a big smile and telling me how much he liked to see me (how you could you not be in a good mood after someone would say that to you?). Big points for being the only person to give me a standing ovation after my stand up bit last spring.

Matt McCarnan--Ok, I'll be honest, I'm pretty sure Weezer is the guy who started the whole "blog craze" at MBBC. He's had one for a while (his sister made it so all the family could keep intouch, even if Luke never posts) and was the first person I knew that had a blog. Matt scores big points for (out of all my friends) probablly putting up with the most amount of junk I give people.....oh and that whole "getting me an extra job to actually make money so I can stop taking out loans" thing, that was cool too. I have to take a quick second to acknowledge Matt's dad, Mr. McCarnan who I know will be reading this (he won the contest Matt was sponsoring on his blog about trying to find my new site)
Mr. McCarnan,
Sorry about not getting back to you through e-mail, I'm really bad at that. My solo went ok, but I don't think I'm ever going to do it again. I did get a "date" to the play then, Chels even put pictures up on her blog somewhere (though I look like I have no idea what's going on, she looks great though). So you and the Mrs. didn't have to get involved. Thanks for the offer and concern though.
--Slim

Nic Howe--I know he hates me saying it, but Nic has the most random blog ever (though I have a feeling that you all will say mine is LONG and random). Nic is a great guy who also happens to have ADD (we haven't actually proved this, but we are pretty sure you can't prove that he doesn't have ADD; make him tell you about how his mom used to put him on a leash to go to the mall, high comedy). I like reading Nic's blog because I'm never sure what I'm going to get, but I usually leave challanged or laughing. Either way, I need to get Nic to blog a bit more since he hasn't done so in about a month now.

Roberta Shepp-- My favorite 6 foot female drama queen (aka "Speech Major"). I'm totally disapointed that I could not actually be in her recital, but she found a good Russian anyway (it'll be fine Bobbi, many people are praying hard for you). I don't think I've ever talked to Bobbi without one of us laughing hysterically. Even when she called me to try and figure out if I could be in her play or not (you know, I couldn't call her because I was avioding her becase I didn't want to tell her I couldn't do it), we still ended up laughing a good bit durring the conversation.


Sportsguy-- I'm pretty sure none of you will ever check this site out (nor would you for "Clutch Fans") but the "Sports Guy" Bill Simmons is a writer for ESPN. All his columns consits of mixtures of pop culture and sports. I love reading this guy and am upset when he doesn't write on somedays(why does he need a vacation??)--by the way, I'm disapointed on days you guys don't post either. He gives many quoteable statments which I sometimes use, but no one knows where I got them from because you don't read the Sportsguy. I also kind of developed my writing style from him (stuff like my random thoughts in parentheses....like that). I enjoy it.

So thats what I got here on the new blog. Let me know if you like or not. As always, more later...........

Joining the Club

Having noticed the relative popularity of Blogger (and because I cave to peer pressure), I've added myself to its esteemed pages.