Land of a Thousand Santas

I don't think I have seen as many Santas in one season as I have this year. My boys have literally seen Santa Claus six to seven times. We even saw two just today.

We saw one on the train ride today. He was pretty cool. He didn't look great, but his attitude was awesome. He had a lot of kids to hold walking up and down the aisles. We went to an outlet called Rocky's Outfitters, when we stepped off the train, which was a typical hunter's paradise. As soon as we entered the second room, lo and behold!!!! Santa Claus. Yes, they took another picture with him and even got their grandma to buy it. They didn't really pick up on the fact that his beard and mustache were styled slightly different.

Caden did notice the other day when we went to see Marysville's Santa, downtown. He asked why Santa looked different than he saw before. We had to play that one off cleverly. He looked more authentic and was the most jolly and warm. It was almost like a picture when we saw a little girl go before us and run up to him and give him a big hug. My boys weren't shy, either, and told him exactly what they wanted this year without stutter or stammer. I would like to go see him again just because he looked and acted like the "real" Santa.

And one more thing... If you are one of those people who think Santa saying "HO, HO, HO" is offensive to women and he should go on a diet... Piss off and quit ruining it for the rest of us! We like Santa how he was, is, and always will be. Fat and jolly!!!

And the walls came tumbling down

"And the walls came tumbling down...

And the walls came tumbling down..."

by Charlie Hall

I have a picture of Samson in my head where he was chained to the pillars in the phillistine temple. He was blind, yet bent on killing every Phillistine that ever lived. He used his might one last time and brought the whole building down on top of every Phillistine there and ... himself.

That is how I was feeling the last few weeks and it all came to a head this week as I concluded my OWDS training. I got a perfect score on both practicums and didn't do too bad on my post test either(94/100). My team project was presented to our trainers and we did very well as we received a lot of positive and realistic feedback to help implement in our own agencies. I am very excited!!!

Now, all of the weight is lifted and I am free!!! I can now focus on getting myself organized again and back in the swing of my normal routine. I really love my normal routine. My family does too.

Under Pressure

Today, I am feeling weighed down. I am feeling the pressure of the coming week as many things are starting to converge.

I have paint just sitting around the house, staring me down, asking me, "when are you going to finish the house?" Worship team practice and Trick or Treat night are going to hinder the timeliness of the project. I also have the second week of training start on Monday. I am not looking forward to this because it is way more work than necessary. I also don't know if I'm going to be compensated for all of my hard work. Even if I do complete the training, I may not get certified. That isn't giving me the incentive I was hoping for, either. After the kids go to bed, I have two modules to read for my test, first thing in the morning. I also have laundry and dishes piling up. Even though that isn't very serious, it adds to my stress. Casey is helping me get the laundry done.

We have been in a marathon at work. That is a process in which we shut down programming and make the residents work out issues or behaviors in the house. Think of it like a Fillibuster in Congress. Add that to the fact that I was acting Coordinator for two weeks and I think I'm ready for a vacation. I'm not burned out, I'm just tired.

Not to end on a sour note, I changed my tax exemptions on my w-4. I got back money on my check that really saved our butt. I treated the family to a night at the dollar($2.00 actually) movies(we saw Ratatouille), $1.75 meal at Wendy's/Tim Horton's (chicken nuggets and a doughnut), and a trip to Petland to see all the animals. It was a great night of family fun. That's extravagance!!!

Yo, Joe!!!

They're making one of my favorite 80's cartoons and action figures into a movie. Snake Eyes, Flint, Gung-Ho, Duke, and Scarlett will be hitting the big screen as well as Cobra Commander, Destro, Storm Shadow, and The Baronness.

I used to have almost all of the 3.5" action figures when I was a kid. I loved it and I think it had as much of an influence on me as Star Wars. I also had a few comics and watched the cartoon religiously after school everyday.

Snake Eyes is as cool as Wolverine and even more mysterious. The other characters were a little on the cheesy side, but every now then they would create one that was really original and fun.

In light of current events in the world, this movie will probably cause quite the stir as Cobra, a terror organization, tries to take over the world.

The movie has been changed from the original concept, which is a group of americans, to a new global p.c. version. G.I. Joe will be made up of international agents to be able to market overseas.

Interesting tidbit: a carrier pigeon by the name of G.I. Joe brought a crucial message to Italy and saved thousands of lives during World War II. This is where it started.

and now, you know...

And knowing is half the battle! Yo, joe!!!

Age to Age: Part 34 of the Drummer's Almanac

My wife and I were watching an interview with Neil Peart that took place in Canada in 1996. He was thinner, much less grey, and a lot more full of life.

The first thing Casey said was, "He looks happier." This interview was a year before Neil lost his wife and only daughter. He was definitely younger looking.

Now, after those tragic events in 1997 (the same year I lost my mom), he looks older. It shows in his posture. You can't hear a difference. In fact, He's sounds more masterful than ever. You can just see the difference in his eyes.

I think back to when I first started playing drums. How I used to approach music and my playing. It was more raw. Less methodical, but more gut level. It had an energy. I think that's why you see old dudes trying to relive the past by playing classic rock. They want to feel that hunger they felt at sixteen.

I still feel it. When I hear a certain song or groove. It fires me up and I make a face. My nose wrinkles up and my lips stick out. It's like when people throw up the rock sign and bang their head. Absurd, but rockin'.

The good thing that comes with age is technique. It's all about the technique. After seventeen years of playin', I better have something to show for it. I can sometimes even make it look easier than what it is, given the right situation. Which is just enough to keep my self esteem at a low level resonant buzz.

That is until I listen to that old guy(51) with bags under his eyes, greying hair, and that sagging posture make my playing sound like a train wreck.

Hope

Some things that gave me hope.....

I just read chapter five in Rob Bell's book Velvet Elvis. It is inspiring and motivational. I had a gush of hope swell up inside of me when he talked about the "old man" having to die. I must believe that the new me is there and I can already be that person. I don't need to wait on some miracle because Jesus already took care of it for me.

He believes in me more than I believe in myself. He sees my potential.

Let me remind you that I have heard this in my head. I'm not yet sure if I have ears to hear this in my heart.

I do know God spoke this to me as I was reading this chapter. It was uplifting and I want more.

We found where we can gain more money in our pocket through changing how much we claim on our taxes. This was confirmed by family, friends, and from our Financial Peace University group.

We have significantly less to pay on our van than we thought. We will pay this debt off at the beginning of next year. (freedom, ALTHOUGH SMALL)

Our friends have helped us out by giving us much needed food and clothing.

Our friends are going to give us more by helping us paint our house. This is not a need, but just a want.

Jesus takes care of me even when I do nothing.....

Back to the Real World

Whew! My head is still spinning from my past week at training. I didn't know what I was getting myself into. So, when I found out we were having a test each morning and homework each night, I was slightly perturbed.

I found it very difficult to be a family man and be a part of this training. I usually had to wait until 9:00pm each night to start my homework.

Just to give you some background on this training; It's a two and a half week intensive to become an Offender Workforce Development Specialist. Basically, it's a training to make me a better advocate for offenders in the workforce.

The practicum is pretty intense. I have a log I have to keep, so they know I'm doing the work, assessments to administer to my residents, a ten minute presentation on a topic from the training, and a thirty minute interview session with an offender using the skills from training. I have two weeks to complete the practicum. I'm only slightly nervous.

My hope is that I can use this training to help me progress not only where I am, but beyond. I love what I do. I couldn't ask for a better position, but we all know the pay is less than I deserve.

When I finish this certification process I will have a credential to my name, college credit hours, a network of individuals in the field across Ohio and better facilitation skills necessary for teaching/training and giving presentations. Pray I keep my sanity.

Goings On

This week I am off to training in Delaware to become a certified Offender Workforce Development Specialist. It consists of three training weeks and lots of homework. By the time I'm finished I will have a certification and college credit. I'm really excited because this will propel me into the future. I will have a weighty credential that will help me look up and out.

Today we are taking Caden and Ethan to Marmon Valley for hayrides, and petting zoos. Should be lot of fun for the kids. Caden's preschool is sponsoring the event.

Tonight, I play with One80 at the Vineyard Cafe on Cooper Road in Columbus.

Thank you doesn't seem like enough to our friends who have blessed us this week and last with money and food. You know who you are. We bless you and thank you and love you.

Who Is He?

Man was I suckered today! I was in the Women's wing observing an encounter where we address someone on their positive, or in this case, negative behavior. One of the counselors in the women's wing tricked me into thinking the next activity was going to be a "Who Is She?". A tool we use to give someone positive affirmations. So, of course I'm just waiting for it to start and she announces to the community that Mr. Clay needs to go have a seat in front of everyone for a "Who Is He."

My back is facing the community, so I don't get to see who is addressing me.

All of the women(14) gave me positive affirmations. Some of it was funny and others were very heartfelt.

I cried.

I didn't cry because I wanted to hear those things to be able to do my job or because I feel I deserve them. I cried because I know God has sent me there to work with people. He knows that I love to see changes in people and to hear them get ahold of something they never had before. He certainly didn't send me there to make money. I love people!

Everyday, I see brokenness, destruction, bitterness, yearning, striving, healing, mourning, love, jealousy, hate, tragedy, enjoyment, etc...

God brings me close to those things and lets me see them face to face. And as He does I see my world and my life and my faith start to change. I see more of myself in them and I can relate.

I couldn't have asked for this job to be created. He just knew my heart and gave it something really good.

Calling It

Have you seen the new commercial for "Carpoolers". The one where all four guys are sitting in the car looking ahead and doing their own quirky little habits on their way to work , meanwhile listening to Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight". Right when the drums kick in they all start air drumming. I called it before they started air drumming. But that was predictable. What I'm going to talk about isn't predictable.

I'm not clairvoyant(there's a word I haven't heard in a while) nor do I believe I'm psychic. I believe the Holy Spirit has been giving me little hints of things to come.

For example, the women residents wanted to give me a "Who is He" where they tell me all of the positive things they like about me. I thought about it earlier and heard a voice in my head say, you are going to get a "Who is He" today. I scoffed at it and passed it off as wishful thinking. But later, there it was written up on the white board for all staff to see. A Mr. Clay-Who is He.

I have been sneezing my head off for the past two weeks due to a head cold and allergies. I went to my father-in law's house and as we were talking that same voice said, "don't worry, he is going to give you some medicine." A few minutes later, he gave me allergy medication.

As most of you know, I'm a big fan of Rush. They are in concert tonight and I have been pretty quiet about not being able to go. Lawn seats are $31.00 and we haven't had enough money to buy food and gas. So, I was hoping for a miracle. I had pretty much told myself I was wasn't going to the show even though I was heartbroken. My friend I play music with called me and left a message asking if I was going to the show. Before I called him back I heard that voice again say he may give you a ticket. Once again, I scoffed. When I called him, I told him I couldn't because of my money situation. He said he wanted to give me a ticket. His wife didn't really want to go and he would be very happy if I took the ticket. I was really blessed.

These situations let me know God is still there. I am not great at hearing His voice. That is something I have struggled with deeply. I just have been hearing it and it has come to pass. We have been blessed richly through Him in the last few days. God has really come through even when we don't ask.

Looney Tunes Spotlight Collection: King

absolutely one of my all time favorites. Cartoon violence is great!!!

Family Guy Star Wars Special Preview

This has to be one of the best!!!

War Drums: Part 33 of the Drummer's Almanac

I decided to bring back the drummer's almanac as a departure from my normal blog entries. I need to vent about my technique every now and then. And I like to think about all the different facets of drumming.

This morning was interesting to say the least. The first service is always a little dry and it seems that all of the charis-whackos are in the second service, which makes for more energy, dancing and whooping.

We started off rough with the first song and I couldn't seem to get into the groove. By the third song, I was playing a nice ride part with my eyes closed. The stick was bouncing nicely and I was really getting into it, when the stick rebounded out of my hand, fell onto a congalita, smacking the head two times, and clinking all the way to the floor by my foot. I had to stop playing totally as I picked up the stick, laughing and trying to look unembarassed.

The second service was a different story, entirely. You can't mistake when the whole team comes together and the presence of the Lord is working on you. I was in the pocket and certain people were woohooing which fed into my energy. I really wanted to break into a war beat of proclamation. It seemed very appropriate, but as we went along, Chris followed the Holy Spirit and led very well.

I was able to partake in a worship setting once, where two drummers were playing together on the worship team. They had djembes for anyone to play, so I picked one up and followed the team. A woman named Jen eventually called me over and several people playing drums just led and beat in spiritual warfare. It was exciting, even though I didn't fully understand it. I still don't. I don't know if there is scripture on this, but I believe music is powerful. I know God wants us to play music and he has called us to play it for and to Him.

I'm going to be on the lookout for a story or verse on beating drums in spiritual warfare.

Not Big Enough!

On Monday I went to a memorial service for a friend of the family named Mike. I had been told about it on Friday, but forgot until my dad called me and told me how he died. He killed himself with a shotgun. Dad told me he didn't want my brother and I walking into that without knowing.

As I sat through the service, the preacher kept talking about salvation and how we are not to say Mike was without God. Mike had committied himself to the Lord when he was younger. He and his family went to a church where, later, I was baptized. It's weird how things come full circle.

Mike and his family used to live across the street from us in a trailer court. We knew each other since we could remember and played together. One day, Mike, his brother Ty, my brother Dana, and I were playing hide and go seek. I saw a canoe laying bottom up behind a shed and decided that would be a great hiding spot. Mike saw me and tried to help me get under the boat. He dropped the boat as I slid under and it hit me in the back of the head. I immediately went home feeling the back of my head and seeing blood on my hands. I got 6 stitches and still have a dent in my head.

When I was in high school, Mike got me drunk and we played drinking games. Good memories.

We drifted apart when they moved to North Lewisburgh. I would see them every now and then in Marysville, but it was years apart.

When the memorial service was over we met with the family at a banquet hall. We ate and Mike's mother made fun of me because I work in a correctional facility. She told my brother and me to go see Steve, Mike's dad. He couldn't come eat because he has diabetes. So we went to their house and saw Steve.

Steve hadn't changed. He was just the way I remember him which was comforting under the circumstances. Steve was telling stories as usual until his neices left. Then he told Dana and I the whole graphic story of how Mike killed himself. He told it with such serenity and peacefulness that it was horrific. As he told the story, I kept wringing my hands. I almost felt like I was going to pass out or throw up. I couldn't drown out Stave's voice with my own thoughts. All I could do was visualize it in every detail.

Afterward, Dana and I talked and we both said we wanted to stop Steve, but felt like we couldn't. I was distraught and wanted to cry. Casey, said I was white as a ghost when I got home. The images are still swirling around my head a week later.

This is a situation that had a profound affect on my faith. I don't know what is happening to Mike's soul. It's not for me to decide. He was alive after he shot the gun. How do I know he didn't call upon God afterward. He could hear his father and squezzed his hand three times. Maybe he was talking with God before he passed away.

As Christians we assume that we have it all figured out because we know what the bible says. I'm not so sure anymore. I still have my foundation of faith, but I am now rethinking certain aspects of what I thought to be truth. I don't think God wants us to condemn. We've done enough of that!

Besides Mike came to salvation a long time ago. Is there enough grace to cover this or is he condemned? I am not so quick to respond. I think I want to let God handle that one.

I am not big enough for it!

Interpretation

Below is a picture of my son's foot x-rays. He broke his foot jumping off of our bed.

I know the pic is blurry and you can't even see where the fracture is located. It's there. Right at his fourth appendage in his foot.

Looking at this pic reminds me of the book I'm reading. Rob Bell's "Velvet Elvis". The velvet paintings of Elvis are just interpretations of the "king" which leads to how we interpret who God is and how we should live out our faith in Him.

I had an interesting week and I had actually been thinking about this topic before I had a chance to crack the book. I witnessed something at work that made me sad, and it made me angry, and it made me feel disgusted at the Christian body. As my fellow staff members were discussing resident behaviors in the house, the nurse decided to bring up a resident that had been walking on crutches. She said, "one day he was walking on crutches and the next he was walking on his own, shooting basketball." Another staff member saw this as an opportunity to say, "He's healed. thank you, Jesus!" Of course, everyone laughed, but me.

I wasn't sad, angry, or disgusted with them as much as I was with the Christian body. I realized that they had such an interpretation of God that says He can't heal and that you will only see that on Benny Hinn. They think it's a ploy and made of fairy tales.

Rob Bell talks about how people base their faith on things they have been influenced by or taught.

I know that my faith has changed over the years. I started out thinking differently, trying to figure God out within a certain context. A frame imposed by my church at the time. Trying to believe in the God of the Bible based on doctrine that walled him off and hindered my growth. It was a good thing I was inquisitive and knew that I didn't believe everything they said to be truth. I had to seek on my own and in doing so, it lead me to more seeking until I found out God was in things I didn't think about before. He approaches things differently than I want him to or think He should just because it makes me comfortable. His ways are not my ways and I found out the more I ask, the more there is to learn.

Kind of like zooming in on my son's x-ray. The more I zoom in, the more fascinating and mysterious it becomes. It's not in focus, it's pixelated, and I have to interpret what I'm seeing.

As I learn to interpret where I am with Him I redefine my faith. Every time.

The velvet Elvis paintings you see on the sides of the highways are just interpretations of who Elvis is to that artist. Usually it's their favorite Elvis based on several incarnations Elvis took on throughout his life. Everyone has their favorite Elvis.

I hope that I don't define God as my favorite version, but as who I think He is based on my experiences with Him along with how I interpret the scriptures at that time. It's made me realize that I don't have the same definition for God as I used to.

It almost makes me think I have no clue, but just when I think he has left me alone.....

...there he is calling me, pushing me, loving me.

The Way Out Is The Way In

I just love Rush and their penchant for sarcastically piercing lyrics like the ones from "Secret Touch".

"The way out is the way in"

They hit today as I struggled getting up, again to the alarm clock, which has become a bane, yet a calling at this moment, to go to worship practice. As I traveled to town I realized how dreadful this morning would be because I would have to tell Greg I couldn't practice for Power Surge Teen Expo. I needed to be home with my wife and kids. So, I drudged along and tried to forget about it.

As the team started practicing and really just trying to worship, I realized I just needed to let everything go and focus solely on Him. What a blessing. It was like a vacation. That is, until the end of service when Greg approached me and asked if I could practice. Apologetically, I told him I couldn't and that I wouldn't be able to this whole week due to other commitments. Reluctantly, he asked if I wanted out. I saw my chance and I took it. I told him it had become too taxing for my family and me. So, I introduced him to Zack, as a replacement, and let it go. Praise God for correcting my mistake. I should have never agreed to it in the first place. Life goes on...

"You can never break the chain
There is never love without pain
A gentle hand, a secret touch on the heart"

So, now my family can know that daddy is home and wants to spend time with them. In case you didn't know, play time is a serious business!!! Dads ought not forget the importance of becoming a tree for the monkeys to hang on.

"A healing hand, a secret touch on the heart"

My load has been made lighter and I think I learned that God has been in control of when I can play music, so I don't lose sight of where He wants me and where I am needed. Hard lesson for a rocker at heart.

"There is never love without pain
Life is the power that remains"

Whew! It's Friday!

Well, I made it. I am off work early and I can relax for a short period of time while my wife and kids sleep. Then it's time to run some errands and do some yard work.


I usually enjoy yard work because I feel like I am exercising, and getting something accomplished. And it makes my home look good.


I am feeling like some of the stress is off of me for now as I wind down for the weekend. I say wind down, but we are actually going to have a busy weekend.


First, we are doing yardwork and housework, so we can enjoy the rest of the weekend. Second, we are going to the Dublin Irish Festival for some good music and various activities. It's very interesting and better than the fair. We make it a tradition to go with Jeremy and Christy. This year Gaelic Storm and Flogging Molly are playing, so it should make for a good time.


I don't know if there's a third, but I think we may end up seeing my brother. I just hope I get to see my boys. We haven't played together for a while and they need some daddy time. I know Casey needs the break.

So, now I'm going to go and play some free online games and try to detox before I have to work outside. For those of you who like free games, check out Dangerous Dave and Brutal Bob. It's a pretty funny game though shocking at first. Well.......I'm off. Saaaawwwiiiiiiiiing battah!

A God Idea?

I met my pastor, Steve, for lunch today at Fiesta Grande to just talk and spend time together. We have done this before and I always enjoy his company. He has become someone I really look up to, not because he's my pastor, but because he always has good solid, godly wisdom to share and encourages me to look in the right direction.

As we sat down, we talked about how this month is filling up fast with events and committments. And for some reason I just can't say, "no!" to people.

I am thankful that, as a drummer, I am being sought out for various gigs. I know God has blessed that gift immensely. But at what expense am I getting to use it. I am over doing it by saying, "sure, I'll be there." or "I'll do that." I am sacrificing a lot of home time with my family to be able to play music.

Steve said, "There are good ideas and God ideas. Not every good idea is a God idea."

I could only nod in agreement because I know it's the truth.

As some people know, Casey and I are struggling with money issues, lately. We have been relying on God and trusting that he will provide. He has in unforseen ways. But we are still hit in the mouth and need assistance. I asked Steve if we should ask for help or just let God provide. He said we should definitely ask God to make it clear on what to do.

See, the problem is not a pride issue with asking for help. It's about trying to let God have the opportunity to show His power or stepping on that and doing it ourselves or following His lead and asking for help from someone who can provide because He said.

This afternoon, God made it clear by showing us our bills are due tomorrow and we need money. So we asked for it. Even though I have pride issues about asking, I overcame and asked for what I needed.

God's ideas are definitiely good!

As Iron Sharpens Iron.......

I went to Der Dutchman with Steve, Doug, and Scott this morning. We had a really good time. It was fun and relaxing. Scott picked up my check (thanks dude) and made me feel bad, but that's okay. I have to get over my pride somehow!

We had good conversation that came very comfortably as we stuffed our faces. And Scott found out what fried mush tastes like and why we tell everybody to get a Long-John.

Afterward, we followed Steve to his father-in-law's house out in the boonies. He had to climb a windmill tower because his father-in-law is afraid of heights. The house was an awesome log cabin style close to The Big Darby Creek (pronounced "crick"). I skipped rocks and tried to help Steve get a water pump working. It didn't, so we waited for Steve to pull it up the hill. Not a good thing, but he made it just as we had to leave.

On the way home I shared where some of my had lived or owned businesses with Scott and Doug. Scott said I had a story for every little town we went through. I laughed , but as I thought about it, I do have a lot of family history through that area.

It was encouraging to go with these guys and I felt very relaxed. I would love to go out with them again, soon. I needed it a lot.

I also have to plug that I'm very excited about Iron Man coming out next year. I probably won't be able to see it in theatres, but I will eventually.

Is Gore Sidious... I mean serious!?!

I saw a newscast last night about Live Earth and all of the rock acts trying to make a difference in the world. Something new to sell, I guess. And they think Christians are trying to sell something!?!

I think I saw the anti-christ(Revelation 13:15) when Al Gore appreared in holographic form to speak to Tokyo, Japan. All I could see was Emperor Palpatine(Darth Sidiuous).

I'm not the only one who thought this as you will see, if you follow this link.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1862324/posts

I could definitely see Star Wars flashing through my head as hologram technology beams worldwide. I'm excited and horrified all at the same time.

But, Mr. Gore, if you can't help your son live a life where he doesn't feel the need to get high or drunk and stay out of jail, or get in a car and drive under the influence, then why are you spending so much time worrying about the future of the world? Your time is now with your son. You won't get another chance to help him. The boy obviously needs more attention from his parents. Not his dad going on some crusade to save the world. Wasn't Tipper the one who fought to get Explicit Lyrics posted on CD's? Where's the moral compass? Oh yeah, playing Star Wars in Tokyo!

I agree with Chris Rock: "I hope Live Earth helps the world as much as Farm Aid helped end world hunger."

This is Al Gore announcing his Presidential bid!!!

But who is that standing behind him?

"Always two there are!"

Randomness

Just some thoughts...

We stopped by my mother's grave a week or two ago. someone had glued a sleeping cherub on the grave stone. This place never seems real to me. Even after ten years. I introduced Caden to this place again because I want him to know he had another grandma. One that would have loved him a whole lot. I miss you, mom!!!

I've been stressed out for the past two weeks because I am the acting Coordinator while my boss recovers from surgery. The good side is I've shown that I can handle the stress at work multiple times over and they have a lot of confidence in me.

I miss my friend Swanger! You know the guy who would watch cool movies with my wife and I and sit down and play music with an acoustic guitar and my djembe. We'd laugh, act stupid, and be ourselves(or so I thought). Now, he only visits certain people when he comes to town. Why doesn't he visit us anymore?

I deleted The Drummer's Almanac blog. What a waste of time! I thought I would use it as a teaching tool once I had students again, but I've only had one response so far. I may not be teaching anytime soon. I thought about going to the music store downtown and asking if they could use a drum instructor. Who knows?

I am so ready to dig into scripture. I can feel myself getting hungry and wanting more when I read. The Lord has been faithful to me even when my faith has floundered. He has shown himself and puts me in my place as I question, doubt, fear or worry. He has my family in His hands.

I have been envious of those with money. I find myself scheming and plotting to make money somehow. It's not healthy because I lose focus on Him. We are facing changes to our budget that we can't control and we are already stretched really thin. There isn't much more we can take away without losing the "privilege" of eating. It's not a "right" you know!?! Time to perservere.

I called Donovan this week and he surprised me by putting his brother, Rich, on the phone. We talked for a while and had a good conversation. We don't talk much or see each other very often. He is living around our area now and wants to get together and jam. This excites me because I love to play music with him and Donovan. This is also an answer to prayer as I have been asking God for a guitarist to come around and want to jam. I also threw in that I would love to have Rich back around. It wasn't my idea totally. God knew what I wanted before I did.

In the morning, I'm going to Dave and Kelly's house to help them finish their stairwell. I will be high on a ladder, and enjoying myself as I help a friend.

We are going to my in-laws in the afternoon for a cookout and waterfights. It's been a tradition since I first met Casey(nine years ago!) We may go and watch fireworks later, but we are trying to save our gas.

Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer

I saw this movie tonight with Dave.

We stopped at Chipotle for some tasty grub and a Dos Equis. Then it was off to movie land. We both were anticipating the preview for Transformers, but it had already moved to the next preview when we sat down, so we went to a later showing so we could see it. It was worth it. I gotta see this movie!!!!!!!

I really liked this movie. I'm not a big FF4 fan, so I wasn't putting too much hope into this one. In fact, I thought it was going to be one of the worst comic movies made. To Dave's and my surprise it was really good. They cleaned up the mess of the first movie and made Dr. Doom actually smart and ruthless as he should be. They even got rid of his organic metal skin. Also, Norrin Radd(surfer) was great, true to character and sounded cool with Lawrence Fishburne's(Morpheus) voice.

Embracing the Light

I took the first pic of Caden last Summer and the second pic of Ethan this evening at a park in Hilliard called Homestead Park.

A cool place for kids and adults. Tunnels, fishing, bike trails, jungle gyms, a water gun fort, and an old caboose.

These are probably the coolest pics I've ever taken. I love them. I think I'll have to have them framed. As soon as I figure out how to blow them up without pixelating them.

Faithless!?!

Mathew 7:24-27
24"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."

We had a discussion about these verses with our home group. It sums up every parable from Mathew 5 through 7. It also makes me think of how we live our lives. When we are faced with something not in our control. How do we deal with it? Do we chuck it all and try to outlast it or do we stand firm on His foundation. One of our friends stated the rain is not something we have to look at as bad, but something that will make us stronger or help us grow.

That's what rain is for, by the way.

Lately, I've been listening to Rush's new album, "Snakes and Arrows". Some really great things on it. Some really not so great things as well. Neil Peart really wears his heart on his sleeve with this album. Something he doesn't normally do. One of the songs on the album is titled "Faithless". Right away I was anxious to hear this one because of the content. Neil has never been a Jesus believer. Here are some of the lyrics below:

"I've got my own moral compass to steer by
A guiding star beats a spirit in the sky"
And all the preaching voices -
Empty vessels of dreams so loud
As they move among the crowd
Fools and thieves are well disguised
In the temple and market place

Like a stone in the river
Against the floods of spring
I will quietly resist
Like the willows in the wind
Or the cliffs along the ocean
I will quietly resist


I don't have faith in faith
I don't believe in belief
You can call me faithless
I still cling to hope
And I believe in love
And that's faith enough for me"

Kind of funny how he says he doesn't have faith in faith and doesn't believe in belief, but he later says "I believe in love and that's faith enough for me". These lyrics are pointed and aggressive, but mostly just sad. This man lost his wife and daughter in the same year. The same year I lost my mother. It's amazing to see how one chooses to live after tragedy. Please pray for Neil to have ears to hear Jesus.

I would like to turn those lyrics around to say:

"I have faith in faith
I believe in belief
You can call me faithful
I still cling to hope
And I believe in love
And I will seek Him faithfully"


What grows your faith? Is it the rain? It is for me. As I look at what I cling to when the floods come in, I know where I place my faith. Even when I don't think it's enough. Even when I hear echos of doubt or I feel the need to hide my face from Him.

Transformers

Man, I gotta tell ya, I am soooo excited about Transformers movie coming out on July 3rd. It is probably making me more excited than some of the comic book movies right now.

I have high expectations, as any fan does, when I hear these movies are being made. Usually, as long as the core character is there I'm happy, but if they miss the point of the character and his or her struggle, then they've wasted millions on a piece if shite. Fantastic Four is one of those pieces of shite. I mean The Thing in a foam rubber suit!?!



Transformers is having the guy who voiced the original Optimus Prime from the 80's cartoon be the voice of Optimus prime in the movie. That alone tells me they are taking great pains to make this movie worth it. What I've seen so far, it's better than one usually expects.


The characters are similar to their original incarnations which wipes the sweat from my brow. It also means they aren't going to make up their own robots to fit their story.


Lets just hope we don't see the Dynobots.


Visit this link for some cool videos and pics.

Visit this link for the cool theme song.

New Blog

Hey, everyone. Please visit my new blog "The Drummer's Almanac". It's for drum nerds, but I would like you to know you may see some things of interest. Or maybe you'll be bored to tears.

On it you will see some cool videos, great drum links, get free lessons from me, or hear a review or two. You may just get hooked on drumming.

"Figuring It Out": Part 20 of the Drummer's Almanac

Three years have passed and once again it's time to test my skills and "figure out" the new Rush album. It's called "Snakes and Arrows". Why? I don't know, but I think it has something to do with directions and winding life roads that lead to unexpected places. The journey. Probably some kind of new age thing.
Now, I know some of you don't like them, but for me, it's a musical highlight that I can't dismiss. I know they aren't commercial. I know it's hard to identify with their music. That's not why I like them. I like them because I just like them. The music hits me and I fall for it.

It's like hearing Justin Timberlake's new track, "What Comes Around". You can't help but want to sing along. No explanation, you just start to groove with it.

I've also noticed my taste is changing. I like more soulful singing and less aggression. Songs like, "Hey" by the Chili Peppers, "Vultures" by John Mayer, and "American Baby" by the Dave Matthews Band.

Rush isn't quite like that, but they have a special place in my heart. Being able to escape in their music helped me through the roughest time in my life. I still almost come to tears when I hear "Time Stand Still" or "Losing It".

Anyway, I am very excited to get my hands on the next Rush masterpiece and push my drumming to a new level.

As a perfectionist, I like to work on such things as precision and effortless playing. So, when I hear something new I am inspired to be able to duplicate it and maybe use it for something else. It may not even be a new technique, but just a new way of playing that I haven't thought of. So I try it and if it feels good, I keep it and sometimes expand on it.

On the other hand, I like the satisfaction of playing something as good as a seasoned, legendary, drummer. Even though I didn't make it up, I still "figured it out".

Burning the Affliction

Well, you probably know what kind plant is featured in this pic.

Yep. I got it.


It's not fun and has become quite painful.

I'm not sure how I got it because I have been doing so much outside.

I planted flowers for Casey on Mother's Day and weeded our flower beds in front of the house. They looked really good until we had rain and now they are infested again. It's just a little frustrating, but I love to work in my beds. Especially when I see the fruit of my labor. Our flowers are in full bloom and our hostas are coming up bigger than when we planted them last year.

Casey and I took the boys to Clifton Gorge last weekend. It's a beautiful place to go hiking and "GET POISON IVY!!!" I don't know for sure , but that is the most likely place. Anyway, Clifton Gorge was a lot of fun and the boys loved it. They like to throw rocks into the river. We walked about a half an hour into the gorge and then the boys started getting tired. So, we went to Young's Dairy and got ice cream, pet cows and goats, and watched jet fighters scream over our heads at a local airport. It was an awesome day. If you get a chance, check out the little town of Yellow Springs. A little lost in the sixties, but quite ecclectic. I bought my djembe there a few years back and Dave Chappell lives there.

No matter where I got this affliction, I am in agony. I bleached the blisters, which has helped, but their not gone yet. I even got it down..... there..... Yep, I bleached it too. Not the most genious plan. I don't think even fire can burn that bad.

So be careful the next time you go hiking or pull something from your flower beds. Wear gloves or use a shovel.

It Is Finished!!!

The two day debacle is over. For those of you who don't know, my choir had to perform at a dedication and grand opening ceremony for the new women's wing. We sang in front of State Representative Tony Core and was even featured on ONN.

I was impressed with my guys because they sang so good it brought tears to a few eyes and we received a standing "O". Very cool!!!

I rewarded them for their hard work at Dairy Queen and rented Deja-vu for them to see. They enjoyed it very much and so did I.

Triggers to Triumph

I was blessed to have an interesting conversation with a resident today about self fulfilling prophecy. We had much more in common than I expected, which reminded me that I am not very different from them.

Being drummers and christians, we were talking about our musical experiences which lead to me talking about contacting studios to be a musician for hire and how that empowered me to keep pushing myself. This lead to how we have given in to self-defeating behaviors. Like telling myself, "Oh, it won't work out anyway. I might as well give it up." "Nothing good will ever come of it!"

He really identified and stated he knows he has triggers that play into everyday situations. He said he never joined bands that he wishes he would have because of these triggers or feelings.

I like to call them lies!

As he was telling me about his triggers his face turned several shades of red and his voice became softer. He called it out and said even just talking about it makes him nervous and start to have panic attacks. Another way I identified with him.

We have feared the fear.

We then addressed how we have started to overcome these irrational thoughts(lies!!!) by putting ourselves in uncomfortable situations like e-mailing studios, getting in front of 90 people and speaking, playing drums in situations we would have previously been intimidated, etc...

It was uplifting to hear the spirit of triumph. To call those lies out in the open and watch them disappear.

Musician for Hire

Well I did it!

I sent an e-mail to four recording studios in Columbus telling them I was interested in being a musician for hire.

Scott D, Scott Y, and I were talking about what we would like to do for our dream jobs. Jokingly, we said we would hold each other accountable to just start working on it. So, I did it. I thought, "why not? What's holding me back?"

myself

It was easy after I got started.

But, this is a big step for me. My lack of confidence has anchored me in the mud for a long time now...

The good thing is, I know I am good enough.

Deep down.

When I talk of confidence, I mean I don't have confidence that it will go anywhere. Because I may be turned down or I might...gulp.... fail.

beep be beep beep<Newsflash> be beep beep beep

I am afraid to fail!

What a lame excuse. Music is probably the one thing people are most confident I can do.

Not sure if I'm okay with that, but it's true.

I used my job seeking skills I teach in Job Readiness class to market myself.

No fluff, just bare bones truth!

I didn't say anything I couldn't back up.

So, hopefully, someone will take the bait and make contact with me. If not, I will have to call them directly.

At least I have a plan and my resume is already on a cd just waiting to be heard.

I'll wait to get nervous when they ask me to show them what I can do.

A gig, a wedding, a rant

Well, my gig went very well. I played smoothly and the rust seemed to shake off pretty easily. I had a few rough spots, but the band was very good with letting it go and having a good time. I really enjoy that band because we have a good time and the music is still challenging enough to push me. It seemed like I never left the band and it makes me miss those days. Thank you, to Scot and Cheryl for coming out to support me. I'm sorry we didn't get to visit very long.

I have some congrats to two of my friends: 1. The Scotzman with his new baby niece.
2. Faithful joy for getting that promotion.
Love you guys.

I was involved in the wedding of two of our friends this past weekend. I video taped while my wife was a bridesmaid. It was a really short ceremony, even though there were three songs sung by their family. The reception was laid back and we stayed for the whole thing. We really felt it on Sunday when church came up and I had worship team and Casey stayed home with the boys.

Lately, I'm missing my friends.

I miss just hanging out and having dinner and laughing hysterically. I need it.

I also need to rant!!!

Immigration has become something I am very concerned about. I have heard both sides' views and can understand , but I also think we are losing our country when we let our culture be destroyed because we let our americana values be a thin veil painted on by our nieve understanding of history. We want to hang onto the way things used to be. Too bad they aren't the way they used to be. Mom, baseball, and apple pie. Chip away ... chip away...

Two immigrants from europe came to America in the early 1900's. The came here because they wanted something better for themselves. They found a land of dreams and opportunity. They became legends. Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster created the greatest superhero ever known. He is called Superman. He was an alien who upheld "Truth, Justice, and (dare I say it?)The American Way"!!!! He championed, honored, and upheld his country because it took him in and gave him a new life.

How do you bite the hand that feeds?

When in america..... don't do as the americans do... do as you want the americans to do.
They'll catch up.......eventually.

Filling In

I have been asked to fill in on drums for my old band one80 on Saturday. I must tell you that I was so excited and happy to do this I got all giddy. That doesn't happen often, but I have been longing to rock for a while. God knew just what I needed to lift me.

If you don't know about this band, then you are in for a treat. They are goofy and fun and really passionate about God. Sounds typical until you hear them. They definetely have their own style and way of having fun on stage. They cover anything from Blues to Soul to Worship and a even a little Latin.

A little Tidbit: Steve Reed, the frontman and lead guitarist is responsible for playing guitar on my song Blood of the Mighty.

This is an invite for those who still read this blog. Come on out to the Cooper Road Vineyard on Saturday, March 10th around 7:30PM. Get a bite to eat at the cafe and enjoy coffee or other drinks as we entertain. We'll get the Holy Ghost woikin'!!!

Track of the Day

Well, I did it. I entered my one and only finished song in a contest. Not for the faint of heart, might I add.

I had to put up with some really bad reviews of the song. That's the point of the contest. I just wanted to see how it would be received.

It made Track of the Day for Feb. 19, 2007 on Garageband.com. Look for Thrive Tribe - "Blood of the Mighty". It's listed under Progressive Rock, even though it may not be. So, check it out and hear my song. It was very gratifying to see my work being recognized in any form. The cool thing was that I found out it would be track of the day on my birthday.

Once again, I would like to thank Casey(background vocals), Jim(producer, engineer), Steve(guitars), Donovan(bass), and Adrienne(background vocals) for your hard work and awesome talent. I wouldn't sound like a band without you.

Asking For What I Need?!?

...instead of what I want! A phrase we use at work to let our residents know they can ask for help. For me, God spoke to me through 1 Kings 1-3.

Have it my way? ...I don't think so!

Adonijah, David's firstborn, thought he ought to be king, so he had a feast in his own honor proclaiming the throne. He presumed David would hand it to him because of birth order. He took the throne for granted.

Bathsheba goes to David and reminds him of the promise he made to make Solomon the King of Judah and Israel. Solomon ended up taking the throne and handled it with great care. The Lord told him to ask for whatever he wanted and he would receive it. So, Solomon asked for wisdom and discernment. The Lord gave him discernment like no other and riches to make him stand out among all other kings before him or after.

Adonijah, on the other hand kept asking for what he wanted even when it wasn't his to have. Solomon had him put to death.

Lately, I've been worrying about our finances. I know God has our back. He hasn't failed yet. But in my humanness, I lose faith because I look down the road and I don't see how we are going to afford things. I even broke my own covenant by asking God to give me money. Not just money, but a lot of money. Not that my heart was in the wrong place, but my focus surely was. I know in my heart that I want the will of God for my family. Whatever that looks like!

It's my head that thinks differently.

Solomon had everything he needed and more because he chose to ask for discernment. He wanted to rule justly and honor his father and Lord.

I also asked for discernment. I think there is no better gift to ask for than that. I want to know His will more than anything and that concern has been an ongoing struggle with my faith. I also know that God puts in charge who he wants and that is an honor all in itself. As for me and my house...

Tuned In, Tuned Out, & Tuned On: Part 12 of the Drummer's Almanac

Well, for starters, we now have the internet at home. So, I can post as heavily as I want without constraint. Except time that is... It's only Roadrunner Lite, but it works for us.

I also want to say I've been pressing into God more and more. He has delivered(literally) and as I own more of my actions and confess those to him, the closer he gets. It's hard to let go of guilt, shame, fear, or resentment. A lot harder than I thought! Shawna, Casey and I went to a worship conference last week at another Vineyard church. The worship was good and I knew I was going up front for prayer. John Wimber's daughter-in-law spoke and her message hit dead on target. As I prayed, I felt Him rush through me and He delivered me. The peace that flowed through me afterward was clearly from Him. Praise God!!!

On to less serious matters: Tuning my drums! (I just had to ask myself if I really am less serious) This task is the most tedious and time consuming part of being a drummer. I am not a drum tech by any means. I've had enough experience to do okay, but my drums never end up how I want them to sound. I love a deep "doooommm" sound in my toms so I can fit any style of music and my snare has to be warm with a good "crack" or "pop" when I hit the rim with the center of the drum. When they sound good or pleasing, I can get lost in my playing and become inspired. So, tuning them "in" isn't as easy as it sounds. It would be nice if someone made a tuner for drummers like the ones a lot of guitarists use. A little red light that told me when I was on. Impossible now, but maybe one day.

I spent about 3 hours trying to tune "in" my floor tom and it still doesn't sound great. I know I'm critical. I also know what I like and I wish I could get it there. I still have the rest of my kit to tune. It becomes a lot like myself. I have to turn each lug a small increment trying to get them in sync with each other, which sometime pulls a lug out of sync and I have to start all over again. I have to keep turning myself towards God. I walk a path and stray and then turn back to Him. Perserverence is the key. Knowing the outcome and pressing on until you reach the goal. The closer I get the more the drum will "sing".

Brought to you by the letter """....