So it has been forever since I have posted to my blog, but this is what has been going on lately:
1. My wife and I spent a wonderful couple of days away, with just the two of us. It was fantastic!
2. My little girl started 1st grade. It is hard to believe that she is in the 1st grade already. It seems like just yesterday that she was still sitting on my desk in her bouncy seat. She seems to be enjoying it so far.
3. Things are starting to get back to the old routine of school now that summer is over. The kids are still kind of excited to be going to school every day. I give that maybe one more week.
4. On the work front, things are busier then ever. It seems we are always getting new projects. This is a good problem to have.
This post is short, but this is really what is going on right now.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Where is the world is Chris?
Well it's been a while since I have posted so I thought I would post today.
The biggest thing going on right now is my wife recently had surgery, so I have been taking care of her. She doesn't like to ask for help much, but I am trying my best to take care of her. She is progressing nicely. I am sure she will be posting all about her experience on her blog. The link is on the left. Go ahead and click it...You know you want to. Oh wait, finish reading my post, then click on the link.
Sadly, softball season is coming to an end. This next week will be our last week. Last week should have been our last, but we have 3 makeup games. One on Monday and two on Tuesday. So far we have only won one game this season. But we have had a lot of fun out there. Almost every team in our division will say they are only out there for the fun of it, but our team is one of the few teams that really is out there for the fun of it.
This season I got to fill the coaching role for a few of our games, including our last three next week. I have to say, it's a role I don't want next year. I never knew how stressful it could be to try and put together a roster or 10 people.
I am rapidly approaching the one year mark with the company I work for. July 23rd marks the day. The year has just flown by there. It's wierd to actually have a job that I absolutly love. At times I feel like I have more responsibility there then I ever have had, but a whole lot less stress then I ever had. It's really odd to work for a company that says the day ends at 5:00pm, and when you leave at 5:00pm, they don't look down on you for it. Anyway, it's a great place to work and I am enjoying every day of it.
I started reading a new book. I am reading Cross by James Paterson. So far it is good, although I am only on the third chapter. Once I am finished with it, I will post a full review.
Well that is it for now. Until next time, look both ways before crossing the street.
Ok, NOW you can click the link to my awesome wife's blog.
The biggest thing going on right now is my wife recently had surgery, so I have been taking care of her. She doesn't like to ask for help much, but I am trying my best to take care of her. She is progressing nicely. I am sure she will be posting all about her experience on her blog. The link is on the left. Go ahead and click it...You know you want to. Oh wait, finish reading my post, then click on the link.
Sadly, softball season is coming to an end. This next week will be our last week. Last week should have been our last, but we have 3 makeup games. One on Monday and two on Tuesday. So far we have only won one game this season. But we have had a lot of fun out there. Almost every team in our division will say they are only out there for the fun of it, but our team is one of the few teams that really is out there for the fun of it.
This season I got to fill the coaching role for a few of our games, including our last three next week. I have to say, it's a role I don't want next year. I never knew how stressful it could be to try and put together a roster or 10 people.
I am rapidly approaching the one year mark with the company I work for. July 23rd marks the day. The year has just flown by there. It's wierd to actually have a job that I absolutly love. At times I feel like I have more responsibility there then I ever have had, but a whole lot less stress then I ever had. It's really odd to work for a company that says the day ends at 5:00pm, and when you leave at 5:00pm, they don't look down on you for it. Anyway, it's a great place to work and I am enjoying every day of it.
I started reading a new book. I am reading Cross by James Paterson. So far it is good, although I am only on the third chapter. Once I am finished with it, I will post a full review.
Well that is it for now. Until next time, look both ways before crossing the street.
Ok, NOW you can click the link to my awesome wife's blog.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Answers to Common Computer Questions #1
So here it is, the first question/answer post. I get asked "Why is my computer so slow?" all the time. The answer really isn't that simple.
There could be several things that are causing this.
It could be that you need more memory or a faster processor. With software and the internet evolving as fast as they are, computer resources need to evolve as well. You should ask yourself "How old is my computer?" If the answer is older then 3 or 4 years, you should really think about an upgrade.
There are some software related things you can do to help speed up your computer. I use the following tools to keep mine performing as best as it can.
1. Eusing Free Registry Cleaner (http://www.eusing.com/free_registry_cleaner/registry_cleaner.htm)
This will help you find any files in the registry that no longer need to be there. The more orphaned files you have, the slower your computer will run. If you have installed and unistalled software, then there is a good chance you have orphaned files in the registry.
2. Spybot Search and Destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html)
This program will search out and spyware you have living on your computer. If you have never ran a program like this, trust me when I say, you have spyware running on your computer.
3. Adaware (http://www.lavasoft.com)
This is the same kind of program as Search and Destroy. I run them both because it doesn't hurt and one usually finds something the other missed.
4. Defrag your hard drive.
There is no good software solution for this, plus Microsoft Windows has a tool built in. It can usually be found by going to Start >> Accessories >> System Tools >> Disk Defragment. Your hard drive becomes fragmented because files are not saved as a whole. They are saved in pieces where ever your system can find space. Defragging your hard drive will reassemble these files and therefore your system doesn't have to work as hard to find all the pieces.
So that is what I usually do. These should be done on a regular basis. I wouldn't go more then a month with out doing these things.
Stay tuned for the next question/answer post.
There could be several things that are causing this.
It could be that you need more memory or a faster processor. With software and the internet evolving as fast as they are, computer resources need to evolve as well. You should ask yourself "How old is my computer?" If the answer is older then 3 or 4 years, you should really think about an upgrade.
There are some software related things you can do to help speed up your computer. I use the following tools to keep mine performing as best as it can.
1. Eusing Free Registry Cleaner (http://www.eusing.com/free_registry_cleaner/registry_cleaner.htm)
This will help you find any files in the registry that no longer need to be there. The more orphaned files you have, the slower your computer will run. If you have installed and unistalled software, then there is a good chance you have orphaned files in the registry.
2. Spybot Search and Destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html)
This program will search out and spyware you have living on your computer. If you have never ran a program like this, trust me when I say, you have spyware running on your computer.
3. Adaware (http://www.lavasoft.com)
This is the same kind of program as Search and Destroy. I run them both because it doesn't hurt and one usually finds something the other missed.
4. Defrag your hard drive.
There is no good software solution for this, plus Microsoft Windows has a tool built in. It can usually be found by going to Start >> Accessories >> System Tools >> Disk Defragment. Your hard drive becomes fragmented because files are not saved as a whole. They are saved in pieces where ever your system can find space. Defragging your hard drive will reassemble these files and therefore your system doesn't have to work as hard to find all the pieces.
So that is what I usually do. These should be done on a regular basis. I wouldn't go more then a month with out doing these things.
Stay tuned for the next question/answer post.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Weeks in Review and Direction
So here it is....another couple of weeks and I haven't posted to my blog, so here goes.
Some significant things have happened since my last post.
The most significant thing being the passing of my grandmother. We recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She was my last living grandparent. Below is the obituary.
"Eleanor McGrath, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, 100 Eleanor McGrath, 100, of Tinton Falls passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at Madison Center, Old Bridge. A private cremation is being held for Eleanor. Arrangements are under the direction of the Waitt-Nelms Funeral Home, 501 Highway 79, Morganville. Eleanor was born in Newark and lived in Point Pleasant and Sparta before moving to Tinton Falls six years ago. She was a homemaker. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Joseph McGrath, in 1976. She is survived by her two sons, Donald McGrath of Pensacola, Fla., and Douglas McGrath of Long Branch; a daughter and son-in-law, Karen and David Stone of Hertford, N.C.; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. "
On March 22nd of this year, in honor of her 100th birthday, the city of Tinton Falls, NJ named that day after her.
Another significant thing that happened was we won our first softball game of the season. Hopefully we will be able to rack up a few more wins.
I have been thinking about what direction to take this blog and I think I have an idea. Because I work in the I.T. industry, people come up to me all the time with questions. When asked, these questions seem like common issues to me. However, to the average user, the problems they have seem huge.
So, in that light, I am going to start posting the questions I get asked as well as the solutions in terms the average user can use.
Look for the first one soon.
And remember, it's going to be a good day tater!
Some significant things have happened since my last post.
The most significant thing being the passing of my grandmother. We recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She was my last living grandparent. Below is the obituary.
"Eleanor McGrath, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, 100 Eleanor McGrath, 100, of Tinton Falls passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at Madison Center, Old Bridge. A private cremation is being held for Eleanor. Arrangements are under the direction of the Waitt-Nelms Funeral Home, 501 Highway 79, Morganville. Eleanor was born in Newark and lived in Point Pleasant and Sparta before moving to Tinton Falls six years ago. She was a homemaker. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Joseph McGrath, in 1976. She is survived by her two sons, Donald McGrath of Pensacola, Fla., and Douglas McGrath of Long Branch; a daughter and son-in-law, Karen and David Stone of Hertford, N.C.; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. "
On March 22nd of this year, in honor of her 100th birthday, the city of Tinton Falls, NJ named that day after her.
Another significant thing that happened was we won our first softball game of the season. Hopefully we will be able to rack up a few more wins.
I have been thinking about what direction to take this blog and I think I have an idea. Because I work in the I.T. industry, people come up to me all the time with questions. When asked, these questions seem like common issues to me. However, to the average user, the problems they have seem huge.
So, in that light, I am going to start posting the questions I get asked as well as the solutions in terms the average user can use.
Look for the first one soon.
And remember, it's going to be a good day tater!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
What's up...
So it's been a little while since I have posted anything here. That is due to two primary reasons. The first being I am a huge procrastinator and the second being I am addicted to twitter which allows me to add really short posts.
But fear not, I am back with a post today!
A lot has been going on lately. It seems like we never slow down anymore. Someone needs to put the brakes on this crazy merry-go-round called life. I am ready to get off and rest for a little while.
Softball season is in full swing (no pun intended). We haven't won a game yet, but last nights game was the best game we played so far this season. We came back from a huge deficit to lose by only one. Everyone played awesome. And I have to say we have the best fans out there. We have a few loyal fans that are at every game. My beautiful wife is one of them and my biggest fan. I love that she gets excited during the games and yells at the umpires.
This past weekend the company I work for was involved in the "Relay for Life". It's a 24 hour walk-a-thon to benefit cancer research. My wife and I volunteered to man the booth for 4 hours where we were supposed to sell wings, ribs, corn on the cob and drinks. By the time we got there at 8:30pm, the only thing really left was corn on the cob and drinks. So we did more hanging out then selling. Still it was for a great cause and we had a good time.
My daughter's kindergarten graduation is in 11 days. I honestly can't believe she is going to be in the 1st grade next year. The time has sure flown by. She is going awesome in kindergarten. One of the reasons is she has the best teacher anyone could ask for (we home school her, so I am sweet on her teacher).
Work is busy these days. I have 6 projects going right now. So things are starting to get crazy, but so far I have been able to keep an eye on everything. The biggest problem I have is I don't know how to say no to a project.
Speaking of work, I need to get back to it and spare you anymore of my rambling. Until next time... stay away from the yellow snow...
But fear not, I am back with a post today!
A lot has been going on lately. It seems like we never slow down anymore. Someone needs to put the brakes on this crazy merry-go-round called life. I am ready to get off and rest for a little while.
Softball season is in full swing (no pun intended). We haven't won a game yet, but last nights game was the best game we played so far this season. We came back from a huge deficit to lose by only one. Everyone played awesome. And I have to say we have the best fans out there. We have a few loyal fans that are at every game. My beautiful wife is one of them and my biggest fan. I love that she gets excited during the games and yells at the umpires.
This past weekend the company I work for was involved in the "Relay for Life". It's a 24 hour walk-a-thon to benefit cancer research. My wife and I volunteered to man the booth for 4 hours where we were supposed to sell wings, ribs, corn on the cob and drinks. By the time we got there at 8:30pm, the only thing really left was corn on the cob and drinks. So we did more hanging out then selling. Still it was for a great cause and we had a good time.
My daughter's kindergarten graduation is in 11 days. I honestly can't believe she is going to be in the 1st grade next year. The time has sure flown by. She is going awesome in kindergarten. One of the reasons is she has the best teacher anyone could ask for (we home school her, so I am sweet on her teacher).
Work is busy these days. I have 6 projects going right now. So things are starting to get crazy, but so far I have been able to keep an eye on everything. The biggest problem I have is I don't know how to say no to a project.
Speaking of work, I need to get back to it and spare you anymore of my rambling. Until next time... stay away from the yellow snow...
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Websites
I am taking a different approach to this posting. Normally I post about what is going on in my life. This post is about some of the websites I either use/visit everyday.
TechCrunch.com: They keep up with what's going on mostly in the Web 2.0 space. I visit them several times a day to keep up with the news.
Gmail: Because let's face it...we can't live without email.
cnn.com: Just for the news.
wrcbtv.com: For local news and weather.
SitePoint.com: I go there mostly for the forums.
Twitter.com: I am a fairly new Twitter user, but I am slowly becoming hooked on it. www.twitter.com/cmcgrath
tv.adobe.com: A really cool video service from Adobe. I usually check it once a day for new videos. Their videos are about their products or tips and tricks.
Ok, well that is just a few of my stable of websites that occupy my time.
TechCrunch.com: They keep up with what's going on mostly in the Web 2.0 space. I visit them several times a day to keep up with the news.
Gmail: Because let's face it...we can't live without email.
cnn.com: Just for the news.
wrcbtv.com: For local news and weather.
SitePoint.com: I go there mostly for the forums.
Twitter.com: I am a fairly new Twitter user, but I am slowly becoming hooked on it. www.twitter.com/cmcgrath
tv.adobe.com: A really cool video service from Adobe. I usually check it once a day for new videos. Their videos are about their products or tips and tricks.
Ok, well that is just a few of my stable of websites that occupy my time.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Ramblings on a Saturday Afternoon
This coming week begins our softball season. So for the next several weeks we have games both Monday and Tuesday evening. On most Tuesday evenings I will still be going to our exercise class before the game with my wife. Some might say that this is not wise... I would have to agree.
We weighed in this past week for the first time in about 3 weeks. I think I showed a loss, but I am not sure. They didn't have the results from the last 10 weeks with them to compare. The work outs this week have been rough to say the least. We went from being beginners to advanced and no one asked us if we wanted to.
So I have resigned myself to the fact that between softball and exercise class, I am going to be one sore fellow for the next couple of months.
Some might say then don't do it...I would have to say, I wouldn't want to not do it. Even with all the pain, it is fun.
Our first game is this Monday against a youth team. So how embarrassing is it going to be if we loss to a youth team? Tune in later in the week to find out if it was embarrassing or not.
In other news, my oldest step son got 2 A's on his report card. Considering where his grades were in the beginning of the year, he is doing fantastic in school. He is also the owner of a learners permit. So my wife and I no longer sleep at night.
In other news... I am the worlds worst procrastinator. I have two projects for my church that I need to complete. I should have completed one of them before the end of last year. I was going to spend some time today working on that project, but did not have the motivation to do so. So I really need to work on getting motivated to get these done.
Until next time.... If you go towards the light at the end of the tunnel, make sure it is not a train coming your way.
We weighed in this past week for the first time in about 3 weeks. I think I showed a loss, but I am not sure. They didn't have the results from the last 10 weeks with them to compare. The work outs this week have been rough to say the least. We went from being beginners to advanced and no one asked us if we wanted to.
So I have resigned myself to the fact that between softball and exercise class, I am going to be one sore fellow for the next couple of months.
Some might say then don't do it...I would have to say, I wouldn't want to not do it. Even with all the pain, it is fun.
Our first game is this Monday against a youth team. So how embarrassing is it going to be if we loss to a youth team? Tune in later in the week to find out if it was embarrassing or not.
In other news, my oldest step son got 2 A's on his report card. Considering where his grades were in the beginning of the year, he is doing fantastic in school. He is also the owner of a learners permit. So my wife and I no longer sleep at night.
In other news... I am the worlds worst procrastinator. I have two projects for my church that I need to complete. I should have completed one of them before the end of last year. I was going to spend some time today working on that project, but did not have the motivation to do so. So I really need to work on getting motivated to get these done.
Until next time.... If you go towards the light at the end of the tunnel, make sure it is not a train coming your way.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Softball Tournament
Our church softball team just wrapped up a pre-season tournament. We entered it as more of a practice then actually thinking we were going to win. We were guaranteed at least two games. So we played our two games and went home.
Our first game was last night and we lost in a big way. But overall I played pretty good for not playing since last season. I usually play second base.
Tonight was our second and last game of the tournament. We lost again (16-1). Tonight I played second based again. Tonight I played awful. I missed everything that came my way. The difference between last night and tonight was my wife was not at our game tonight. She is my good luck charm, my rock, and my loudest fan.
So I think going forward, she needs to make sure she is at every game. The season officially starts April 26th, so that gives me a couple of weeks to heal my sore bones.
So until next time... look both ways before you cross the street.
Our first game was last night and we lost in a big way. But overall I played pretty good for not playing since last season. I usually play second base.
Tonight was our second and last game of the tournament. We lost again (16-1). Tonight I played second based again. Tonight I played awful. I missed everything that came my way. The difference between last night and tonight was my wife was not at our game tonight. She is my good luck charm, my rock, and my loudest fan.
So I think going forward, she needs to make sure she is at every game. The season officially starts April 26th, so that gives me a couple of weeks to heal my sore bones.
So until next time... look both ways before you cross the street.
Friday, April 4, 2008
A couple of weeks in review
So it's been a couple of weeks since I have posted to my blog. Not much out of the ordinary has been going on.
We are starting the next round of wellness steps next week. My goal is to lose at least 15 pounds. I have been slacking in the area of my diet lately, so I need to get focused on that again.
Softball season is starting again at the end of the month. So I am looking forward to that. I play on a team with my church. We didn't have a banner season last year, but we had a ton of fun. So you may see more posts about the season as it goes on.
On the work front, things are getting really busy. We are wrapping up the project that spawned my department and starting 3 more external projects and 2 internal projects.
So like I said, not much going on. The biggest thing that has happened is we got our taxes done and they are ready to mailed off.
So until next time... Remeber you can tune a piano, but you can't tune a fish.
We are starting the next round of wellness steps next week. My goal is to lose at least 15 pounds. I have been slacking in the area of my diet lately, so I need to get focused on that again.
Softball season is starting again at the end of the month. So I am looking forward to that. I play on a team with my church. We didn't have a banner season last year, but we had a ton of fun. So you may see more posts about the season as it goes on.
On the work front, things are getting really busy. We are wrapping up the project that spawned my department and starting 3 more external projects and 2 internal projects.
So like I said, not much going on. The biggest thing that has happened is we got our taxes done and they are ready to mailed off.
So until next time... Remeber you can tune a piano, but you can't tune a fish.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Round 1 is Over
For the last 1o weeks I have been involved with a fitness/nutrion program in an attempt to lose a few pounds and to try and eat better. The program is called Wellness Steps of Bradley County.
After 10 weeks of excersing twice a week, here are the results.... (imagine a drum roll here)
I have lost 13 pounds, 6.8% of my body fat, 2.6% of my BMI(Body Mass Index), and 3 1/2 inches off my waist.
My goal was to lose 36 pounds, so I came short of my goal. Even though I came short, I am not giving up.
Round 2 of this program begins in a week and I am looking forward to it. My goal is 23 pounds. I am confident if I keep up with the program correctly, I can reach this goal.
I started the last 10 weeks with every intention of following the program to a tee. However, when life steps in, things get out of control.
Since I know where I went wrong, I can keep myself from going down that road again.
Well there you have it...
After 10 weeks of excersing twice a week, here are the results.... (imagine a drum roll here)
I have lost 13 pounds, 6.8% of my body fat, 2.6% of my BMI(Body Mass Index), and 3 1/2 inches off my waist.
My goal was to lose 36 pounds, so I came short of my goal. Even though I came short, I am not giving up.
Round 2 of this program begins in a week and I am looking forward to it. My goal is 23 pounds. I am confident if I keep up with the program correctly, I can reach this goal.
I started the last 10 weeks with every intention of following the program to a tee. However, when life steps in, things get out of control.
Since I know where I went wrong, I can keep myself from going down that road again.
Well there you have it...
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Week in Review
Well this week wasn't as emotional as the previous week. I don't think I could take another week like that.
This week I received my CPAP machine and mask. I am not sleeping sounder yet though. I picked up my machine on Monday, but my mask didn't get to me until Thursday night. So Thursday night I used it for about 2 hours, Friday night I used it for about 3 hours while sleeping. I wore it for a couple of hours before going to sleep last night to get adjusted to it.
Tonight my goal is to wear it all night long. In case you are wondering what the mask looks like, below is a picture (not of me wearing it).
Thursday night we weighed in at our Wellness Steps class. I lost 2 pounds this past week for a total loss of 11.5 pounds. I have about 20 more pounds to go to my target goal of 190. Our last official weigh in is on March 20th. So I am hoping I can make it to my target before then. If not, I won't give up. I will continue the eating better and excising.
Professionally, it was a good week. My little department grew by 4 possibly 5 new projects. So now I have to focus on how to manage all these projects.
So today is Saturday and we are doing absolutely NOTHING and it has felt wonderfully. I can't remember the last time we were just able to sit around and do nothing and who knows when we can do it again. So, I am going to continue my day of rest and spending time with my family.
Until next time... Look both ways before crossing the street and don't take any wooden nickels.
This week I received my CPAP machine and mask. I am not sleeping sounder yet though. I picked up my machine on Monday, but my mask didn't get to me until Thursday night. So Thursday night I used it for about 2 hours, Friday night I used it for about 3 hours while sleeping. I wore it for a couple of hours before going to sleep last night to get adjusted to it.
Tonight my goal is to wear it all night long. In case you are wondering what the mask looks like, below is a picture (not of me wearing it).
Thursday night we weighed in at our Wellness Steps class. I lost 2 pounds this past week for a total loss of 11.5 pounds. I have about 20 more pounds to go to my target goal of 190. Our last official weigh in is on March 20th. So I am hoping I can make it to my target before then. If not, I won't give up. I will continue the eating better and excising.
Professionally, it was a good week. My little department grew by 4 possibly 5 new projects. So now I have to focus on how to manage all these projects.
So today is Saturday and we are doing absolutely NOTHING and it has felt wonderfully. I can't remember the last time we were just able to sit around and do nothing and who knows when we can do it again. So, I am going to continue my day of rest and spending time with my family.
Until next time... Look both ways before crossing the street and don't take any wooden nickels.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day is rapidly approaching. So America will have an excuse to go out and get drunk and wear green even if they don't come from an Irish heritage.
Coming from an Irish heritage, some might find it hard to believe that I don't wear green on St. Patrick's Day. I actually make it a point not to wear green. I do this for two reasons really.
1. I have my Irish background 365 days a year, not just one.
2. Patrick was NOT Irish. He was of English decent.
I am all for celebrating the work that Patrick did in Ireland. After all, he started a Christian movement unlike any seen in his time. Kidnapped into slavery, he could have given up, but he didn't.
What I am not for is celebrating his legacy as something it shouldn't be. This day should not be a day of getting drunk. It should be a day of reflecting on how he furthered the gospel and a day of reflection on how we have furthered the gospel.
I think of myself and when I find it dificult to witness to someone and now I have to wonder... If Patrick was able to witness after everything he went through, why can't I?
So join me this St. Patrick's Day in reflecting on how to further spread the gospel instead of further spreading the act of getting drunk.
Coming from an Irish heritage, some might find it hard to believe that I don't wear green on St. Patrick's Day. I actually make it a point not to wear green. I do this for two reasons really.
1. I have my Irish background 365 days a year, not just one.
2. Patrick was NOT Irish. He was of English decent.
I am all for celebrating the work that Patrick did in Ireland. After all, he started a Christian movement unlike any seen in his time. Kidnapped into slavery, he could have given up, but he didn't.
What I am not for is celebrating his legacy as something it shouldn't be. This day should not be a day of getting drunk. It should be a day of reflecting on how he furthered the gospel and a day of reflection on how we have furthered the gospel.
I think of myself and when I find it dificult to witness to someone and now I have to wonder... If Patrick was able to witness after everything he went through, why can't I?
So join me this St. Patrick's Day in reflecting on how to further spread the gospel instead of further spreading the act of getting drunk.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
What am I?
In today's world we try and classify everyone with a title. Even in the christian world we do this. We say things like I am Catholic, or I am Baptist, or Charismatic, or Pentecostal.
These are all denominations of Christianity. Each believes their way is the right way to the Father.
The bible tells us "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6
No where in this truth does it say "and if you are Catholic or Baptist or Pentecostal." I think as Christians we get so caught up in the business of faith that we forget about the act of faith.
I am a member of a church that is a member of a denomination. I do not consider myself to be a member of a denomination. My choice to join my church had nothing to do with it's affiliations and it still doesn't. I joined a faithful body of believers.
I honestly think we would be better off without denominations. Jesus didn't need them when he was ministering to people, so why do we think we need them now?
The bottom line is I am NOT Catholic, or Baptist, or Pentecostal, or any of the other Christian denominations in the world. I AM a Christian.
These are all denominations of Christianity. Each believes their way is the right way to the Father.
The bible tells us "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6
No where in this truth does it say "and if you are Catholic or Baptist or Pentecostal." I think as Christians we get so caught up in the business of faith that we forget about the act of faith.
I am a member of a church that is a member of a denomination. I do not consider myself to be a member of a denomination. My choice to join my church had nothing to do with it's affiliations and it still doesn't. I joined a faithful body of believers.
I honestly think we would be better off without denominations. Jesus didn't need them when he was ministering to people, so why do we think we need them now?
The bottom line is I am NOT Catholic, or Baptist, or Pentecostal, or any of the other Christian denominations in the world. I AM a Christian.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Sad Days...
The past couple of days have been rather sad days. A very dear friend of ours has gone home to be with the Lord. I can't really say we "lost" her though. To say you lost something would imply you don't know where it is. Even though we are saddened, we can rejoice and praise God for we know exactly where our dear friend is. She is rejoicing in heaven.
So now we find ourselves asking the big question... Why? Why did the Lord decide to bring this mighty woman of God home after recently being healed of Cancer? Why, after this family has suffered so much in their lives this past year did God add this to their suffering?
As Christians we are taught to have faith and that God has a plan for our lives, but as humans, we have to question why situations happen. These are questions we will never know the answers to until we are brought home to be with God.
It is also at times like this that we realize we don't know how much time we really have on this spinning rock and how much the people in our lives mean to us. So my question is not why did this happen, but why did it take the departure of someone close to put these things into perspective? This question is more directed to myself then anyone.
I am going to try and make it a point to not dwell on the little things the devil throws in our way to trip us up. Instead, I am going to focus more on the blessings I have in my life. I am truly a blessed man. God has blessed me with the perfect wife for me, great children, a wonderful church family, a good job, and to many more blessings to list here.
I pray that I don't lose sight of these things in the future. I also pray not only for comfort for this family, I also pray comfort and strength for those that have been blessed to be apart of our friend's life. She truly was a wonderful mighty woman of God who would do anything she could to help someone out or just be there to comfort them with an encouraging word.
In all of this sadness, I find it comforting to know that our dear friend is in a much better place then we are and that some day we will all see each other again.
She will be missed dearly...
So now we find ourselves asking the big question... Why? Why did the Lord decide to bring this mighty woman of God home after recently being healed of Cancer? Why, after this family has suffered so much in their lives this past year did God add this to their suffering?
As Christians we are taught to have faith and that God has a plan for our lives, but as humans, we have to question why situations happen. These are questions we will never know the answers to until we are brought home to be with God.
It is also at times like this that we realize we don't know how much time we really have on this spinning rock and how much the people in our lives mean to us. So my question is not why did this happen, but why did it take the departure of someone close to put these things into perspective? This question is more directed to myself then anyone.
I am going to try and make it a point to not dwell on the little things the devil throws in our way to trip us up. Instead, I am going to focus more on the blessings I have in my life. I am truly a blessed man. God has blessed me with the perfect wife for me, great children, a wonderful church family, a good job, and to many more blessings to list here.
I pray that I don't lose sight of these things in the future. I also pray not only for comfort for this family, I also pray comfort and strength for those that have been blessed to be apart of our friend's life. She truly was a wonderful mighty woman of God who would do anything she could to help someone out or just be there to comfort them with an encouraging word.
In all of this sadness, I find it comforting to know that our dear friend is in a much better place then we are and that some day we will all see each other again.
She will be missed dearly...
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Lifting My Lid...
I have been reading John C. Maxwell's "The 21 Most Powerful Minutes in a Leader's Day" and I have to say, it is an excellent book.
The reason I mention this is because today I read about Lifting Lids. He refers to "Lids" as the challenges and opportunities we face each day of our life.
He goes on to talk about the challenges or "Lids" that David faced head on instead of hiding from them like Saul did.
This comes at an interesting time for me because I have a "Lid" that I must lift. Everyone that knows me, knows, that I am more comfortable behind the scenes. I am not one for public speaking at all.
Yesterday I was told that I have to give a presentation on our company's new website. Now, I know more about our website then anybody else so I am not afraid of the topic.
My fear or "Lid" comes from having to talk in front of a group. I would rather do anything else then speak to a large group. To make matters worse for me, the group will be made up of Executive Directors, the President of the company, and most likely the Chairman of the Board.
So, before I read today's reading I was thinking how am I going to get out of this. Now, I think I am ready to lift this "Lid" and move on to the next challenge they throw at me.
To learn more about the book I am reading, click the title of it in the right column.
The reason I mention this is because today I read about Lifting Lids. He refers to "Lids" as the challenges and opportunities we face each day of our life.
He goes on to talk about the challenges or "Lids" that David faced head on instead of hiding from them like Saul did.
This comes at an interesting time for me because I have a "Lid" that I must lift. Everyone that knows me, knows, that I am more comfortable behind the scenes. I am not one for public speaking at all.
Yesterday I was told that I have to give a presentation on our company's new website. Now, I know more about our website then anybody else so I am not afraid of the topic.
My fear or "Lid" comes from having to talk in front of a group. I would rather do anything else then speak to a large group. To make matters worse for me, the group will be made up of Executive Directors, the President of the company, and most likely the Chairman of the Board.
So, before I read today's reading I was thinking how am I going to get out of this. Now, I think I am ready to lift this "Lid" and move on to the next challenge they throw at me.
To learn more about the book I am reading, click the title of it in the right column.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
In God We Trust
Or do we? We see this phrase on every coin made from the US Mint. But do we really believe it?Do we really trust God with everything in our lives? I know I don't put my trust in God always. So why is that?
I find for me personally, it is easier to tell others to put all their trust in God than it is to actually do it myself. Yes, that makes me a hypocrite. I am aware of this, and this is something I pray about daily. I pray that I can let go of everything in my life and allow God to take care of it according to his plan.
So what does it really mean to trust God completely? As of right now, I am not really sure. For me I think it means to come to a final realization that I can't do this on my own and that God is in control of everything. I do know one thing. By me not trusting God with everything in my life I am robbing myself of his true blessings for my life. I am also robbing God of the ability to pour out his full blessings on my life which in turn would allow me to live out my live according to his plan.
So I guess what I am saying is if you are doing the same thing, not trusting God completely, join in praying with me that we would start to allow God to work the way he wants to in our lives.
I find for me personally, it is easier to tell others to put all their trust in God than it is to actually do it myself. Yes, that makes me a hypocrite. I am aware of this, and this is something I pray about daily. I pray that I can let go of everything in my life and allow God to take care of it according to his plan.
So what does it really mean to trust God completely? As of right now, I am not really sure. For me I think it means to come to a final realization that I can't do this on my own and that God is in control of everything. I do know one thing. By me not trusting God with everything in my life I am robbing myself of his true blessings for my life. I am also robbing God of the ability to pour out his full blessings on my life which in turn would allow me to live out my live according to his plan.
So I guess what I am saying is if you are doing the same thing, not trusting God completely, join in praying with me that we would start to allow God to work the way he wants to in our lives.
The week in review
I am taking an idea from my beautiful wife and I am going to post a week in review...
We wrapped up our marriage retreat and it was awesome. It was one of the best retreats so far. I am a very blessed man that I was able to spend time away with my wife.
My work week was rather uneventful. Although, I will say I am addicted to the internet from a social aspect. I am convinced that the social web and web 2.0 are the future of the internet. I will be posting things on this as time goes on.
I went back to the doctor on Friday morning. He went over the results of my first sleep study. There was nothing new there except he told me the level of sleep apnea that I have. I have mild to moderate sleep apnea. Yea for me!
So Friday night I went back for me last sleep study for a while. The goal of this study was to get me used to the CPAC machine and determine the level the machine should be set. Unlike my first study, this one wasn't as eventful. I will say that the sleep tech this time was very informative and he actually went over the numbers of my last study.
The only eventful thing that happened was... At some point in the night I woke up so disoriented, I actually pulled the mask off and started to pull one of the sensors off when the tech walked in and asked me was I ok? It was at that point I remembered where I was. The only thing I can think of is that I finally was in such a deep sleep that I wasn't used to that feeling.
The good news is the sleep tech told me I did spend a lot of time in a very deep sleep.
Well until next week.... Don't take any wooden nickels.
We wrapped up our marriage retreat and it was awesome. It was one of the best retreats so far. I am a very blessed man that I was able to spend time away with my wife.
My work week was rather uneventful. Although, I will say I am addicted to the internet from a social aspect. I am convinced that the social web and web 2.0 are the future of the internet. I will be posting things on this as time goes on.
I went back to the doctor on Friday morning. He went over the results of my first sleep study. There was nothing new there except he told me the level of sleep apnea that I have. I have mild to moderate sleep apnea. Yea for me!
So Friday night I went back for me last sleep study for a while. The goal of this study was to get me used to the CPAC machine and determine the level the machine should be set. Unlike my first study, this one wasn't as eventful. I will say that the sleep tech this time was very informative and he actually went over the numbers of my last study.
The only eventful thing that happened was... At some point in the night I woke up so disoriented, I actually pulled the mask off and started to pull one of the sensors off when the tech walked in and asked me was I ok? It was at that point I remembered where I was. The only thing I can think of is that I finally was in such a deep sleep that I wasn't used to that feeling.
The good news is the sleep tech told me I did spend a lot of time in a very deep sleep.
Well until next week.... Don't take any wooden nickels.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Book Review
I set several goals for myself for this year. One was to get into better shape, and I am working on that one.
Another goal was to read more. That being said, I have finished my first book of the new year. Well to be honest, it's the first book I have finished in about three years.
The book I read was "The Husband" by Dean Koontz. When I did read a lot I was a big fan of his work. So, I thought this one would be a good read.
For the most part it was a good read. There was a lot of action throughout the story coupled with several twists that you couldn't see coming.
The ending, however, was less then stellar. There was a big lead up to the ending.... and then it was over. Not much excitement in the final pages at all. I don't know if Mr. Koontz was tired or facing a tight deadline and cut some corners or what.
I would recommend the book though. Just don't expect a great ending.
Stay tuned for my next review.
Another goal was to read more. That being said, I have finished my first book of the new year. Well to be honest, it's the first book I have finished in about three years.
The book I read was "The Husband" by Dean Koontz. When I did read a lot I was a big fan of his work. So, I thought this one would be a good read.
For the most part it was a good read. There was a lot of action throughout the story coupled with several twists that you couldn't see coming.
The ending, however, was less then stellar. There was a big lead up to the ending.... and then it was over. Not much excitement in the final pages at all. I don't know if Mr. Koontz was tired or facing a tight deadline and cut some corners or what.
I would recommend the book though. Just don't expect a great ending.
Stay tuned for my next review.
I felt the burn...
So I have been involved in this new fitness program for three weeks now. As of last night I officially felt the burn. Or at least I felt something so painful I can only assume it was the burn.
We started doing things a little differently last night. Now we are doing three sets of 15 with one minute of cardio in between. For anyone that may think that isn't hard, I dare you to try it.
I have lost a total of 5 pounds so far. So I only have 25 more to go. My goal is 190.
I am going to stick with this though. I mean how much harder can it really get. Honestly I don't want to know the answer to that question.
Until next time, drink as much water as you can. After all, it will cure what ails you.
We started doing things a little differently last night. Now we are doing three sets of 15 with one minute of cardio in between. For anyone that may think that isn't hard, I dare you to try it.
I have lost a total of 5 pounds so far. So I only have 25 more to go. My goal is 190.
I am going to stick with this though. I mean how much harder can it really get. Honestly I don't want to know the answer to that question.
Until next time, drink as much water as you can. After all, it will cure what ails you.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
The results are in...
The results of my sleep study are in.....insert drum roll here..... I have sleep apnea. Statistics say that 12,000,000 people have this condition. Now it's 12,000,001. So what does that mean? It means my wife was right. That's right, I said it here in print. So Karen, you can stop laughing now.
What it also means is that I will probably have to sleep with a mask of some sort on. So will the machine be louder then my snoring? We will soon find out.
My doctor also told that because I enjoyed the first sleep study so much, that I get to go back for another one. So I have that to look forward to. I finally got all the glue off of me from the last one, and now I get to do it all over again.
Stay tuned for that fun filled night.
What it also means is that I will probably have to sleep with a mask of some sort on. So will the machine be louder then my snoring? We will soon find out.
My doctor also told that because I enjoyed the first sleep study so much, that I get to go back for another one. So I have that to look forward to. I finally got all the glue off of me from the last one, and now I get to do it all over again.
Stay tuned for that fun filled night.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Here a blog, there a blog, everywhere a blog
We have become crazy about blogging as a society. No longer do we have to wait for the evening news to come on to find out what crazy thing our neighbors have done, we can just log onto mycrazyneighbor.com and read about it in there own words.
I too am addicted to reading blogs and now I am writing one of my own. So what should I write about? I could write about my work day, but most people would find that not very interesting. I could write about my hopes and dreams, but those are mine, not yours, so back off already because you are not getting them. So who know what you may find on here.
It is estimated that there are currently 30 to 40 million Americans blogging these days. That is a lot of crazy neighbors telling about their days. So if you should happen to come across mine, I need to apologize for anything you find here that may be boring.
Ok, I am done rambling. Besides, my neighbors are home now so I must go see what there up to and maybe I will write about it tomorrow.
I too am addicted to reading blogs and now I am writing one of my own. So what should I write about? I could write about my work day, but most people would find that not very interesting. I could write about my hopes and dreams, but those are mine, not yours, so back off already because you are not getting them. So who know what you may find on here.
It is estimated that there are currently 30 to 40 million Americans blogging these days. That is a lot of crazy neighbors telling about their days. So if you should happen to come across mine, I need to apologize for anything you find here that may be boring.
Ok, I am done rambling. Besides, my neighbors are home now so I must go see what there up to and maybe I will write about it tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Sweet Dreams are not made of this...
So this year I have decided I need to take better care of myself. I am changing my diet, my weight, I am going to exercise more, and find out why I can't sleep at night.
Which brings me to what I was up to last night.
Lately I have developed a habit of snoring loud enough to wake the house. I went from never snoring to shaking the windows. My wife tells me I also stop breathing at times during the night.
Flashback to last Friday...
I went to see my doctor to explain what is going on. He said he was going to schedule a sleep study and then they drew some blood. After which he tells me "I have never seen you this heavy before." Mind you I am about 6ft and weigh 225lbs. They called me today to tell me my thyroid is acting up again. So it's back to the Synthroid for me.
Fast forward to last night
7:30pm
I arrive at the emergency room to check in for my sleep study. I go through the usual paperwork with nothing unusual until I am asked if I have a living will or if I have a clergy preference. I am here for a sleep study. Why do I need a living will or a clergyman?? I am here to sleep, nothing else, just sleep. If I require a living will or a clergyman for this then there is something seriously wrong and I don't want any part of it.
7:45pm
I am currently sitting in a room at the hospital awaiting the attendants to come in and hook me up to all the equipment. On the bed are several cords that look like they hook into monitors. I must say at this point I am a little frightened. I mean how many things do they have to connect to me to see how I sleep. The room itself is not bad with the exception of the camera watching my every move. I hope they have a breakfast buffet in the morning.
8:30pm
The doctor just came in to discuss what they are going to do. They are going to hook up 19 monitors to me. When I mentioned I am uneasy about things on my face, I was told I can leave after they put the stuff on me before the study starts. If I want to leave after the study starts I have to cover all costs, which I was told is several thousand dollars.
Are you kidding me?? Several thousand dollars to watch someone sleep?? And you wonder why our health care system is in shambles.
9:10pm
So now I am waiting for the doctor to come back and hook me up. They tell me they are going to wake me up about 6:00am. Are they out of their minds???
9:15pm
Big Brother's voice appears from the speaker in the wall to ask me to look into the camera so my picture can be taken. Why do they need a picture of me? They will be watching me all night. Isn't that enough?
10:20pm
American Idol has come and gone. I am convinced they will let any crazy person on TV. My attendants finally come in to hook me up. There is two of them so I am getting the tag team treatment. I am not sure what was going on, all I could feel were four hands all over my head. After they hook me up I was starting to feel like I was going on a space mission for NASA.
10:40pm
Now I climb into bed and my attendants leave. Then I hear the voice of Big Brother through the wall again. It's time to test the equipment. They tell me to lie still with my eyes open, then close my eyes, then look left, then right, then left again, and right one more time. I go through the same thing by looking up and down. Then I had to hold my breathe for 10 seconds and wiggle both legs. Finally the test is over and I am told I can go to sleep now. So there I was in total darkness with no noise. Who can sleep in that environment??
5:45am
So it's morning....I think. I hear the voice of Big Brother asking me if I am ready to wake up. My first thought was...."Did I go to sleep?". It didn't feel like I had slept at all. My attendants come in to disconnect everything and ask me some questions. Most of the wires came off ok until they got to the two on my chest and the four on my legs. There is nothing like being woken up in the morning to a waxing. It was at that point I realized I didn't need coffee to wake up this morning.
6:15am
I am finally on my way home from this not so restful evening.
This hospital has no WIFI connection. This is incredibly cruel treatment. I am actually writing this in TextEdit on a MAC PowerBook so I can publish it tomorrow. Thank goodness for text messaging so my wife can keep my company while we watch American Idol and text each other about the nut jobs who they let on the show.
I am making other changes as well. I have joined a nutrition/fitness program to help me take off the 40 pounds my doctor wants me to lose. I will be documenting my progress in that program as it goes along.
Which brings me to what I was up to last night.
Lately I have developed a habit of snoring loud enough to wake the house. I went from never snoring to shaking the windows. My wife tells me I also stop breathing at times during the night.
Flashback to last Friday...
I went to see my doctor to explain what is going on. He said he was going to schedule a sleep study and then they drew some blood. After which he tells me "I have never seen you this heavy before." Mind you I am about 6ft and weigh 225lbs. They called me today to tell me my thyroid is acting up again. So it's back to the Synthroid for me.
Fast forward to last night
7:30pm
I arrive at the emergency room to check in for my sleep study. I go through the usual paperwork with nothing unusual until I am asked if I have a living will or if I have a clergy preference. I am here for a sleep study. Why do I need a living will or a clergyman?? I am here to sleep, nothing else, just sleep. If I require a living will or a clergyman for this then there is something seriously wrong and I don't want any part of it.
7:45pm
I am currently sitting in a room at the hospital awaiting the attendants to come in and hook me up to all the equipment. On the bed are several cords that look like they hook into monitors. I must say at this point I am a little frightened. I mean how many things do they have to connect to me to see how I sleep. The room itself is not bad with the exception of the camera watching my every move. I hope they have a breakfast buffet in the morning.
8:30pm
The doctor just came in to discuss what they are going to do. They are going to hook up 19 monitors to me. When I mentioned I am uneasy about things on my face, I was told I can leave after they put the stuff on me before the study starts. If I want to leave after the study starts I have to cover all costs, which I was told is several thousand dollars.
Are you kidding me?? Several thousand dollars to watch someone sleep?? And you wonder why our health care system is in shambles.
9:10pm
So now I am waiting for the doctor to come back and hook me up. They tell me they are going to wake me up about 6:00am. Are they out of their minds???
9:15pm
Big Brother's voice appears from the speaker in the wall to ask me to look into the camera so my picture can be taken. Why do they need a picture of me? They will be watching me all night. Isn't that enough?
10:20pm
American Idol has come and gone. I am convinced they will let any crazy person on TV. My attendants finally come in to hook me up. There is two of them so I am getting the tag team treatment. I am not sure what was going on, all I could feel were four hands all over my head. After they hook me up I was starting to feel like I was going on a space mission for NASA.
10:40pm
Now I climb into bed and my attendants leave. Then I hear the voice of Big Brother through the wall again. It's time to test the equipment. They tell me to lie still with my eyes open, then close my eyes, then look left, then right, then left again, and right one more time. I go through the same thing by looking up and down. Then I had to hold my breathe for 10 seconds and wiggle both legs. Finally the test is over and I am told I can go to sleep now. So there I was in total darkness with no noise. Who can sleep in that environment??
5:45am
So it's morning....I think. I hear the voice of Big Brother asking me if I am ready to wake up. My first thought was...."Did I go to sleep?". It didn't feel like I had slept at all. My attendants come in to disconnect everything and ask me some questions. Most of the wires came off ok until they got to the two on my chest and the four on my legs. There is nothing like being woken up in the morning to a waxing. It was at that point I realized I didn't need coffee to wake up this morning.
6:15am
I am finally on my way home from this not so restful evening.
This hospital has no WIFI connection. This is incredibly cruel treatment. I am actually writing this in TextEdit on a MAC PowerBook so I can publish it tomorrow. Thank goodness for text messaging so my wife can keep my company while we watch American Idol and text each other about the nut jobs who they let on the show.
I am making other changes as well. I have joined a nutrition/fitness program to help me take off the 40 pounds my doctor wants me to lose. I will be documenting my progress in that program as it goes along.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Nothing to see here
I am not sure what this blog will be about or if it will be about anything at all. I think this will be more of an outlet for the random thoughts that pop into my head.
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