Well, I have returned to the world of blogging. Sorry I have taken over a week to update. Life has been so busy. So let's see, where to start.
First and foremost, Johanna and I celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary yesterday. We went to Fogo De Chos in downtown Baltimore. It was so cool. Not only was the food delicious but just the whole experience of eating there. I must have eaten like 1 1/2 pounds of meat. It was so good. The Ribs that I ate were almost as good as the ribs my dad makes. They melted as soon as you put them in your mouth. Johanna got a 12.00 cosmoplitan. So yeah, I would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who is looking for a nice date night. It is a little pricey. It was a little over 110.00 for us. But it is good.
Onto the diet front. I have been doing rather well with that. I have slacked off and did not go to the gym yesterday or today, I probably will not be able to go tomorrow but I will be going on Monday morning. When I went Thursday night, I got a little brave. After biking for 6 miles, I went over to the treadmill and walked for a 1/2 mile. Then I decided to try running. I ran for 1/2 mile on the treadmill at 5 MPH. I felt really good after that. I actually had sweat dripping down off of my eyebrows. WOW! So I got home and weighed myself on the Wii Fit. I have lost 5 pounds last week!! It is very encouraging. This weekend I was kind of bad, I know that the dinner was an anniversary thing, but we ordered Chinese tonight. Tomorrow my whole family is coming up to White Marsh for lunch. We are going to one of my favorite restuarants. I am planning on getting a salad. They have very good salads there.
Recently on facebook, I have been connecting with a lot of old friends. Some of whom are Christian and some of whom are not. It is very interesting and disheartening at the same time to hear how some of them have walked away from the Christian faith. I did that once for about 5 months. I had done some things I never thought I would have done. I stopped going to church, I stopped hanging out with friends of the faith and I stopped praying. Looking back on that time of my life, I still don't know how I did it. I don't know how I could have ever turned my back on God after all He did for me.
I was planning on using a Steven Curtis Chapman song here, but another one popped into my head. Third Day is one of those bands that you either love em or you really dislike them. I love them, my wife is the latter of the two. Their music has really spoken to me during some trials, especially some recent ones. One of the songs that makes me look back on that point in my life is "Run To You". Below are the lyrics:
I was tired of waiting
Playing all the games and
Living in a place that was not for me
So I thought it was time
For me to get what’s mine
And to do it all, everything I dreamed
What I thought was the best of me turned to be
All the worst I could find
If I run to you
Will you hold me in your arms forevermore
If I run to you
Will you hold me in your arms forevermore
Now I got a feeling
That I’ve got to leave and
Find a way back to where I came from
Though I don’t deserve it
I know it’s unheard but
Living here without you, my life is done
I confess that I shouldn’t have run from you
Now I know I was wrong
Nowhere to run to
And no one to turn to
I’m dying out here on my own
Long before I even thought of returning
Your arms are wide open
Waiting for me to come home
The second part of the second verse really hits me hard. How can we run from God? After all He has done for us, after all of the promises He gives us in His Word. He is always waiting there with open arms. If you ever feel like you have sinned beyond the point of forgiveness, remember, no sin is worse than another. Sure, we view it that murdering someone is 1000 times worse then simplying stealing a candy bar from 7-11. But remember, they are both the same in God's Eyes. No sin you commit can ever make God love you less then He already does.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Well, it has been a whole week since I updated this. Lots going on. I guess I will start with my fact of the “week”. When subjected to an electric current of at least 50 volts, a cat’s tail always points to the north. Hmm…. How did they figure this out?
Let's see, what happened this week? Johanna celebrated her 4 year anniversary with DLA Piper on the 16th and they gave her a coupon to leave work one hour early. Yeah, great gift!
Last night, we were playing with Elijah and Azalea. We kept having Azalea do tricks and Elijah would crack up laughing at it. Jo and I were crying because we were laughing so hard. We have video of it and it will be posted to Jo’s blog soon.
Some big news from the week, I joined a gym! Tuesday, I went to Bally’s near our house just to check it out. I talked with one of the managers and got a great deal. I did not have to sign up for a single/multi-year contract. I am paying 34.99 a month and I can cancel anytime I want too. They have so much stuff, lots of cardio and weights, track that wraps around the whole facility, racquetball and an indoor pool. They also have free childcare if I ever need to take Elijah there.
On Wednesday, while I was biking there, I got to thinking it would be cool to have someone to workout with. We can encourage and push each other. Then I got on facebook and one of my friends had updated his status that he really wanted to loose some weight. His name is Chris and he is the afternoon DJ for my favorite radio station WRBS. So I sent him a message and he sent me one back. We are going to meet for drinks sometime in the near future and talk about it. He is also one of the worship leaders at my church. I am really excited about this possibility.
I tried a gym before and didn’t follow through with it. Johanna and I lost a lot of money because of it. I also was just getting discouraged about not seeing results. I use to be the type of person who wanted results right away. Now I know this is going to be a marathon and not a sprint.
Have you ever felt discouraged? You know, that feeling like everything you have tried you have failed at? Sometimes your life just seems to be like one big storm and there is no way out of it. I have felt that way a lot. But then I hear a voice inside of me telling me everything is going to be alright. I had that feeling again this morning. We have had a lot of stuff going on. Our washer is broken and we need to have it repaired, we need a new hot water heater, among other things. I was getting frustrated about it. Then I heard the following song on the radio. I have heard it before but this time I actually listened. The song is “Jesus Calling” by 33 Miles.
What do you see when you look at your world today
Is it so full of clutter that you feel like your going insane
But you can't fight back 'cause you're just too afraid
And it feels like the clouds in your sky don't wanna change
You see there’s always another story
Another side to every coin
But how you see your circumstance is all about a choice
Chorus:When you see the rushing wind, feel the pouring rain
Hear the thunder now as the clouds roll in You're blinded by the lighting
Do you also hear that still, small voice saying it's okay
You're not alone, you may be scared to death
But I won't let you go You may think the sky above is falling
But can you hear Jesus calling?
What do you see when you look at your world today
Do you see a glimmer of hope or has it all turned to gray
Well start by counting you blessings one by one
And I'm sure right there you'll start to see the sun
You see there’s always another story
Another side to every coin
But how you see your circumstance is all about a choice
So, whenever you are facing a “storm” in life, take that time to hear the still small voice of Christ telling you everything will be ok. I have heard that voice so many times and I am so thankful for it!
Let's see, what happened this week? Johanna celebrated her 4 year anniversary with DLA Piper on the 16th and they gave her a coupon to leave work one hour early. Yeah, great gift!
Last night, we were playing with Elijah and Azalea. We kept having Azalea do tricks and Elijah would crack up laughing at it. Jo and I were crying because we were laughing so hard. We have video of it and it will be posted to Jo’s blog soon.
Some big news from the week, I joined a gym! Tuesday, I went to Bally’s near our house just to check it out. I talked with one of the managers and got a great deal. I did not have to sign up for a single/multi-year contract. I am paying 34.99 a month and I can cancel anytime I want too. They have so much stuff, lots of cardio and weights, track that wraps around the whole facility, racquetball and an indoor pool. They also have free childcare if I ever need to take Elijah there.
On Wednesday, while I was biking there, I got to thinking it would be cool to have someone to workout with. We can encourage and push each other. Then I got on facebook and one of my friends had updated his status that he really wanted to loose some weight. His name is Chris and he is the afternoon DJ for my favorite radio station WRBS. So I sent him a message and he sent me one back. We are going to meet for drinks sometime in the near future and talk about it. He is also one of the worship leaders at my church. I am really excited about this possibility.
I tried a gym before and didn’t follow through with it. Johanna and I lost a lot of money because of it. I also was just getting discouraged about not seeing results. I use to be the type of person who wanted results right away. Now I know this is going to be a marathon and not a sprint.
Have you ever felt discouraged? You know, that feeling like everything you have tried you have failed at? Sometimes your life just seems to be like one big storm and there is no way out of it. I have felt that way a lot. But then I hear a voice inside of me telling me everything is going to be alright. I had that feeling again this morning. We have had a lot of stuff going on. Our washer is broken and we need to have it repaired, we need a new hot water heater, among other things. I was getting frustrated about it. Then I heard the following song on the radio. I have heard it before but this time I actually listened. The song is “Jesus Calling” by 33 Miles.
What do you see when you look at your world today
Is it so full of clutter that you feel like your going insane
But you can't fight back 'cause you're just too afraid
And it feels like the clouds in your sky don't wanna change
You see there’s always another story
Another side to every coin
But how you see your circumstance is all about a choice
Chorus:When you see the rushing wind, feel the pouring rain
Hear the thunder now as the clouds roll in You're blinded by the lighting
Do you also hear that still, small voice saying it's okay
You're not alone, you may be scared to death
But I won't let you go You may think the sky above is falling
But can you hear Jesus calling?
What do you see when you look at your world today
Do you see a glimmer of hope or has it all turned to gray
Well start by counting you blessings one by one
And I'm sure right there you'll start to see the sun
You see there’s always another story
Another side to every coin
But how you see your circumstance is all about a choice
So, whenever you are facing a “storm” in life, take that time to hear the still small voice of Christ telling you everything will be ok. I have heard that voice so many times and I am so thankful for it!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Missing Person
Hey everyone,
It's Friday! YAY! I have been thinking about maybe having a Star Wars Movie Marathon this weekend. Yep, all 6 movies. I am sure I won't be able to pull it off, but hey I will try!
Recently, I have networked with a friend online I had met on a Missions Trip to Ocean City. Her name is Karmen and she lives down in AL. I remember that trip a lot. There were 2 teams, one from Faith Community (My old church) and one from a church in AL. When we first all arrived, we kind of stayed away from one another. But then a bunch of us started hanging out with the other church. They were really cool people. I remember our last day there, we had about 25 people from each group participate in a prayer together. That was really cool.
The point of this post you ask? Well, when I was reminiscing about this and other Mission Trips, I got to thinking about what kind of a person I was then. I was really on fire for God. I was willing to tell anyone and everyone about Him and what He had done in my life. Then I thought about who I am now. I am really a different person.
I can't figure out when exactly the change happened. I think a lot of it was due to the fact that I stopped going to Faith. I went to that church for almost 13 years. I grew up there. I know a lot of people there. I was attending that church when I became a Christian. I really miss the fellowship that I had with people there. The church that I am going to now is so huge. Johanna and I do not know anyone. But I am hoping to change that, for me at least.
There is a neat ministry coming up for the men at Mountain. I am really looking forward to it. It is a Men's Fraternity. This is going to be a weekly class where men get together as brothers in Christ and just have the opportunity to share with one another about any struggles we are having.
So, that brings me to the song. There are so many songs with lyrics that touch on what I am going through right now. Frpm "Just Reach Out" by Petra to "What If I Stumble" by DC TALK. I was going to use the DC TALK song, but then I decided to branch out a little. I have been listening to Phillips, Craig and Dean a little bit. They have this one song called "When God Ran". It is based on the story of the Prodigal Son which can be found in the Book of Luke. I really like the lyrics:
Almighty God, the great I am
Immovable rock, omnipotent, powerful, awesome Lord
Victorious warrior, commanding King of Kings Mighty conqueror,
and the only time
the only time I ever saw Him run
CHORUS:
Was when He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said,“Son do you know I still love you?”
He caught me by surprise
when God ran
The day I left home I knew I’d broken His heart
And I wondered then if things could ever be the same
Then one night I remembered His love for me
And down that dusty road ahead I could see
It was the only time – it was the only time I ever saw Him run
And then He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said,“Son do you know I still love you?”
He caught me by surprise as He brought me to my knees
When God ran I saw Him run to me
BRIDGE:
I was so ashamed, all alone and so far away
But now I know He’s been waiting for this day
I saw Him run to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice I felt His love for me again
He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said, “Son”,
He called me Son He said, “Son do you know I still love you?”
He ran to me and then I ran to Him
When God ran
So I just need to keep thinking about that. No matter how far I run from God, I can ALWAYS run back to God and be welcome with open arms. It is really comforting to know.
It's Friday! YAY! I have been thinking about maybe having a Star Wars Movie Marathon this weekend. Yep, all 6 movies. I am sure I won't be able to pull it off, but hey I will try!
Recently, I have networked with a friend online I had met on a Missions Trip to Ocean City. Her name is Karmen and she lives down in AL. I remember that trip a lot. There were 2 teams, one from Faith Community (My old church) and one from a church in AL. When we first all arrived, we kind of stayed away from one another. But then a bunch of us started hanging out with the other church. They were really cool people. I remember our last day there, we had about 25 people from each group participate in a prayer together. That was really cool.
The point of this post you ask? Well, when I was reminiscing about this and other Mission Trips, I got to thinking about what kind of a person I was then. I was really on fire for God. I was willing to tell anyone and everyone about Him and what He had done in my life. Then I thought about who I am now. I am really a different person.
I can't figure out when exactly the change happened. I think a lot of it was due to the fact that I stopped going to Faith. I went to that church for almost 13 years. I grew up there. I know a lot of people there. I was attending that church when I became a Christian. I really miss the fellowship that I had with people there. The church that I am going to now is so huge. Johanna and I do not know anyone. But I am hoping to change that, for me at least.
There is a neat ministry coming up for the men at Mountain. I am really looking forward to it. It is a Men's Fraternity. This is going to be a weekly class where men get together as brothers in Christ and just have the opportunity to share with one another about any struggles we are having.
So, that brings me to the song. There are so many songs with lyrics that touch on what I am going through right now. Frpm "Just Reach Out" by Petra to "What If I Stumble" by DC TALK. I was going to use the DC TALK song, but then I decided to branch out a little. I have been listening to Phillips, Craig and Dean a little bit. They have this one song called "When God Ran". It is based on the story of the Prodigal Son which can be found in the Book of Luke. I really like the lyrics:
Almighty God, the great I am
Immovable rock, omnipotent, powerful, awesome Lord
Victorious warrior, commanding King of Kings Mighty conqueror,
and the only time
the only time I ever saw Him run
CHORUS:
Was when He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said,“Son do you know I still love you?”
He caught me by surprise
when God ran
The day I left home I knew I’d broken His heart
And I wondered then if things could ever be the same
Then one night I remembered His love for me
And down that dusty road ahead I could see
It was the only time – it was the only time I ever saw Him run
And then He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said,“Son do you know I still love you?”
He caught me by surprise as He brought me to my knees
When God ran I saw Him run to me
BRIDGE:
I was so ashamed, all alone and so far away
But now I know He’s been waiting for this day
I saw Him run to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice I felt His love for me again
He ran to me, He took me in His arms
Held my head to His chest, said “My son’s come home again”
Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes
With forgiveness in His voice He said, “Son”,
He called me Son He said, “Son do you know I still love you?”
He ran to me and then I ran to Him
When God ran
So I just need to keep thinking about that. No matter how far I run from God, I can ALWAYS run back to God and be welcome with open arms. It is really comforting to know.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
I am glad I am not a woman....
Did you know that "Women end up digesting most of the lipstick that they apply" Why not just eat the lipstick like a candy bar!
So I have finally uploaded all of my CD's onto my ITUNES library. I have 963 Christian CD's. Yesterday, I was listening to some Relient K stuff. I put the bands albums on shuffle and just listened to whatever played. For some reason, I got 4 of their songs from their Christmas album in a row.
That got me thinking.... why do we only listen to Christmas music at Christmas time? Why not listen to it all year round. Why does the miracle of Christ's birth only have to be celebrated at Christmas time? We should be celebrating all the time. So the song "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day" by Avalon popped into my head. I know, those of you who have heard Reliant K and Avalon know they are 2 completely different styles of music. But the message is what is important. Below are the lyrics:
Don't get so busy that you miss
Giving just a little kiss
To the ones you love
Don't even wait a little while
To give them just a little smile
A little is enough
See how many people are crying
Some people are dying
How many people are asking for love
So don't save it all for Christmas day
Find a way
To give a little love every day
Don't save it all for Christmas day
Find a way
'Cause holidays have come and gone
But love lives on
If you give onLove
How could you wait another minute
A hug is warmer when you're in it
Oh, baby that's a fact
And saying I love you's always better
Seasons, reasons they don't matter
So don't hold back
See how many people in this world
So needful in this world
How many people are praying for love
repeat chorus
So let all the children know
Everywhere that they go
Their whole life long
Let them know love
So remember to show love to those around you at all times. Not just at Christmas time.
So I have finally uploaded all of my CD's onto my ITUNES library. I have 963 Christian CD's. Yesterday, I was listening to some Relient K stuff. I put the bands albums on shuffle and just listened to whatever played. For some reason, I got 4 of their songs from their Christmas album in a row.
That got me thinking.... why do we only listen to Christmas music at Christmas time? Why not listen to it all year round. Why does the miracle of Christ's birth only have to be celebrated at Christmas time? We should be celebrating all the time. So the song "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day" by Avalon popped into my head. I know, those of you who have heard Reliant K and Avalon know they are 2 completely different styles of music. But the message is what is important. Below are the lyrics:
Don't get so busy that you miss
Giving just a little kiss
To the ones you love
Don't even wait a little while
To give them just a little smile
A little is enough
See how many people are crying
Some people are dying
How many people are asking for love
So don't save it all for Christmas day
Find a way
To give a little love every day
Don't save it all for Christmas day
Find a way
'Cause holidays have come and gone
But love lives on
If you give onLove
How could you wait another minute
A hug is warmer when you're in it
Oh, baby that's a fact
And saying I love you's always better
Seasons, reasons they don't matter
So don't hold back
See how many people in this world
So needful in this world
How many people are praying for love
repeat chorus
So let all the children know
Everywhere that they go
Their whole life long
Let them know love
So remember to show love to those around you at all times. Not just at Christmas time.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
New stuff to do witth my blog
Well, I have decided to do something a little different with my blog. I got this neat application for my IPHONE called 6001 random facts. So each day I am going to post a new and interesting fact. Some may be disturbing... you have been forewarned.
I also want to use this as an encouragement to anyone who reads it. So in addition to the fact, each day I am going to post the lyrics to a song and what they mean to me.
So now onto the fact: It is now possible to print human skin with an inkjet printer
Hmm... very interesting indeed.
One of my favorite Christian Groups is Kutless. They have been around for a few years and I had the opportunity to meet them once. One of there songs is "Promise of a Lifetime" This song has helped me through a lot. Just to know that God is always there to listen to us is amazing. Here is the God who created the whole universe and everything we see around us, yet He loves us just the way we are. What an Awesome feeling. Be Blessed by the lyrics:
I have fallen to my knees
As I sing a lullaby of pain
I’m feeling broken in my melody
As I sing to help the tears go away
Then I remember the pledge you made to me
Chorus
I know you’re always there
To hear my every prayer inside
I’m clinging to the promise of a lifetime
I hear the words you say
To never walk away from me and leave behind
The promise of a lifetime
Will you help me fall apart
Pick me up, take me in your arms
Find my way back from the storm
And you show me how to grow
Through the change
I still remember the pledge you made to me
I am holding on to the hope I have inside
With you I will stay through every day
Putting my understanding aside
And I am comforted
I also want to use this as an encouragement to anyone who reads it. So in addition to the fact, each day I am going to post the lyrics to a song and what they mean to me.
So now onto the fact: It is now possible to print human skin with an inkjet printer
Hmm... very interesting indeed.
One of my favorite Christian Groups is Kutless. They have been around for a few years and I had the opportunity to meet them once. One of there songs is "Promise of a Lifetime" This song has helped me through a lot. Just to know that God is always there to listen to us is amazing. Here is the God who created the whole universe and everything we see around us, yet He loves us just the way we are. What an Awesome feeling. Be Blessed by the lyrics:
I have fallen to my knees
As I sing a lullaby of pain
I’m feeling broken in my melody
As I sing to help the tears go away
Then I remember the pledge you made to me
Chorus
I know you’re always there
To hear my every prayer inside
I’m clinging to the promise of a lifetime
I hear the words you say
To never walk away from me and leave behind
The promise of a lifetime
Will you help me fall apart
Pick me up, take me in your arms
Find my way back from the storm
And you show me how to grow
Through the change
I still remember the pledge you made to me
I am holding on to the hope I have inside
With you I will stay through every day
Putting my understanding aside
And I am comforted
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Well, lots of stuff to update on.
Frist off, a while ago I had posted something about me going on a diet, well that has been a challenge. I can say that about a week ago, I stepped on our Wii Fit and found out I had lost 7 pounds. That was a big encouragement. That just proved to me that I can loose weight!
I really feel as if God has been talking to me the past couple of Sundays at church. For those who don't know, we go to Mountain Christian Church in Joppa MD. It is a very nice church. Jo and I love worshipping there. We are in the midst of a rebel with a cause series. 2 weeks ago, (Father's Day) Pastor Ben talked about being content with life. Now, I know that being content has always been hard for me. I have always wanted more or better then I have. New car, better home, new IPHONE, better job, more CD's, more children, etc. Well Ben said something that really hit me. God has me right where He wants me right now. I have all He feels I need right now. So it was at that point I decided that I was content. I have a car that runs, (It is still new), I have a roof over my head, I have a phone that calls people, even if it calls people when I don't want it too.
So that afternoon, I got my Father's Day gifts. Johanna had Elijah bring me my card that she made, (She makes all the cards we give out. So much better then Hallmark) Then Elijah handed me this little piece of paper. It was a coupon good for... wait for it.... wait for it.. a new iphone! I was so excited! So we went and picked it up that afternoon. My other Father's Day gift was going down to see my folks. I love my wife!
Then last Sunday, Ben talked about worry. He told us that if we worry, we are in a way saying that God is not in control. God always has our best interests in His heart. (Jer. 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper and not harm you, to give you a future and a hope) I have been holding onto that verse for some time now. Things are just starting to really fall into place in my life. I just need to keep leaning on God and knowing that He does have great things in store for me!
So there is my monthly update. I promise to try to update on a more consistent basis! Have a great 4th!
Frist off, a while ago I had posted something about me going on a diet, well that has been a challenge. I can say that about a week ago, I stepped on our Wii Fit and found out I had lost 7 pounds. That was a big encouragement. That just proved to me that I can loose weight!
I really feel as if God has been talking to me the past couple of Sundays at church. For those who don't know, we go to Mountain Christian Church in Joppa MD. It is a very nice church. Jo and I love worshipping there. We are in the midst of a rebel with a cause series. 2 weeks ago, (Father's Day) Pastor Ben talked about being content with life. Now, I know that being content has always been hard for me. I have always wanted more or better then I have. New car, better home, new IPHONE, better job, more CD's, more children, etc. Well Ben said something that really hit me. God has me right where He wants me right now. I have all He feels I need right now. So it was at that point I decided that I was content. I have a car that runs, (It is still new), I have a roof over my head, I have a phone that calls people, even if it calls people when I don't want it too.
So that afternoon, I got my Father's Day gifts. Johanna had Elijah bring me my card that she made, (She makes all the cards we give out. So much better then Hallmark) Then Elijah handed me this little piece of paper. It was a coupon good for... wait for it.... wait for it.. a new iphone! I was so excited! So we went and picked it up that afternoon. My other Father's Day gift was going down to see my folks. I love my wife!
Then last Sunday, Ben talked about worry. He told us that if we worry, we are in a way saying that God is not in control. God always has our best interests in His heart. (Jer. 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper and not harm you, to give you a future and a hope) I have been holding onto that verse for some time now. Things are just starting to really fall into place in my life. I just need to keep leaning on God and knowing that He does have great things in store for me!
So there is my monthly update. I promise to try to update on a more consistent basis! Have a great 4th!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Coming soon to a blog near you
What happens when you take Joe Raymond and give him an electric chainsaw? Wait and see.....
Monday, June 8, 2009
Sometimes I just do not get life. I really wish at times that our plans were placed right in front of our faces and we would just follow them. I am talking in this instance about school.
I have been meaning to go back to school for some time. I went back a couple of years ago, took a few classes and stopped. I went back last summer & fall for a couple of classes and stopped. I just do not know what to do. I am undecided in what I want to study. I mean, I know I do not have to go to college, but Johanna wants to be a stay at home Mom so I feel I am under some pressure to finish school and get a degree. Let me say this though, I do not feel ANY pressure from her about going to school, the pressure is coming from within me. I want to be able to give my wife whatever she wants and will make her happy. She does feel like she has missed a big chunk of Elijah's life with having to work full-time. She would love to stay home. I really do not see that happening anytime soon, especially if we stay in MD.
The cost of living here is out of this world. They just find ways of taking our money and the prices of houses make it next to impossible for a first time home buyer.....
So there is my rant for today. I am going to go back to work now. Have a nice day!
I have been meaning to go back to school for some time. I went back a couple of years ago, took a few classes and stopped. I went back last summer & fall for a couple of classes and stopped. I just do not know what to do. I am undecided in what I want to study. I mean, I know I do not have to go to college, but Johanna wants to be a stay at home Mom so I feel I am under some pressure to finish school and get a degree. Let me say this though, I do not feel ANY pressure from her about going to school, the pressure is coming from within me. I want to be able to give my wife whatever she wants and will make her happy. She does feel like she has missed a big chunk of Elijah's life with having to work full-time. She would love to stay home. I really do not see that happening anytime soon, especially if we stay in MD.
The cost of living here is out of this world. They just find ways of taking our money and the prices of houses make it next to impossible for a first time home buyer.....
So there is my rant for today. I am going to go back to work now. Have a nice day!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Well, it is time for blogging again!!
This weekend was not that great for my diet. I went to Dunkin Doughnuts/Baskin Robins with my brother in law and sister in law and bought a 3 scoop sundae. I wasn't even hungry. I just wanted to eat some ice cream. So that killed me. Yesterday, I did ok. I don't remember what I had for breakfast, lunch was 2 tuna fish sandwiches and dinner was homemade Taco Salad. It was really good. I will post how we make it sometime in the near future. Also, in other weight loss news, Johanna (my wife for those who don't know it) has made a deal with me. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, when she gets home from work, she is going to let me go to a local park which has a track going around it for me to walk. The track is at least a mile one time around. So more news to be coming soon. I have not decided what day to make my weigh-in day.
This weekend was enjoyable. I saw 2 cousins I have not seen in 17 years. They drove down from MI to see our Grandfather. He lived in FL but moved in with my parents a couple of years ago. He is 92 years old and in excellent condition. So it was nice to see them too.
Today marks a somber day in our nations history. 10 years ago today, 2 students went on a shooting spree at Columbine High School in Littleton CO killing 13 students and 1 teacher. It is so hard to believe that it has been a decade already. I just read an article this morning that said the 2 shooters had not originally planned for the shooting, but had planned to blow up the school using propane bombs and other incendiary devices. When that didn't work, they decided to shoot people instead. I have often wondered what goes through the mind of someone who wants to kill another person. So if you remember, say a prayer for the families involved. It may be hard for us to understand this, but can you picture how the parents and families of those killed are feeling right now?
Well that is all for now. I have to go back to work. More soon!
This weekend was not that great for my diet. I went to Dunkin Doughnuts/Baskin Robins with my brother in law and sister in law and bought a 3 scoop sundae. I wasn't even hungry. I just wanted to eat some ice cream. So that killed me. Yesterday, I did ok. I don't remember what I had for breakfast, lunch was 2 tuna fish sandwiches and dinner was homemade Taco Salad. It was really good. I will post how we make it sometime in the near future. Also, in other weight loss news, Johanna (my wife for those who don't know it) has made a deal with me. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, when she gets home from work, she is going to let me go to a local park which has a track going around it for me to walk. The track is at least a mile one time around. So more news to be coming soon. I have not decided what day to make my weigh-in day.
This weekend was enjoyable. I saw 2 cousins I have not seen in 17 years. They drove down from MI to see our Grandfather. He lived in FL but moved in with my parents a couple of years ago. He is 92 years old and in excellent condition. So it was nice to see them too.
Today marks a somber day in our nations history. 10 years ago today, 2 students went on a shooting spree at Columbine High School in Littleton CO killing 13 students and 1 teacher. It is so hard to believe that it has been a decade already. I just read an article this morning that said the 2 shooters had not originally planned for the shooting, but had planned to blow up the school using propane bombs and other incendiary devices. When that didn't work, they decided to shoot people instead. I have often wondered what goes through the mind of someone who wants to kill another person. So if you remember, say a prayer for the families involved. It may be hard for us to understand this, but can you picture how the parents and families of those killed are feeling right now?
Well that is all for now. I have to go back to work. More soon!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Well, I am on day 2 of my weight loss plan. I ate pretty well yesterday, up until dinner. I had 1 1/2 bagels with some cream cheese for breakfast, lunch was 2 turkey, cheese and lettuce sandwiches on potato bread. When I got home, I snacked on some carrots with fat free ranch veggie dip. Johanna and I went down to see our friends Steve and Brie at the hospital. Brie just had a baby, not as cute as Elijah, but close. So we had to grab a quick dinner since it was a long trip and we had to drop Elijah off at my parents. So we stopped at McDonalds and I got 3 1.00 McChicken Sandwiches and a Lg Diet Coke. Not the greatest thing to eat. Then I had a piece of cabasa once we got to my parents. So I did good up until dinner. So far today, I had 2 bagels with cream cheese for breakfast, and 2 sandwiches and a thing of yogurt for lunch. I am not sure what is for dinner, LOST is on tonight and the Mother-In-Law is cooking, so we will see.
Other then the weight loss, nothing too interesting going on in life. I do however have to say I really love my job. As many of you know, I went through 2 periods of unemployment in the last couple of years. I was very fortunate to get this job. I actually look forward to coming to work when I wake up. So that is my shout-out.
I may be starting another blog to do something with my music.... more on that later. I'm Out!
Other then the weight loss, nothing too interesting going on in life. I do however have to say I really love my job. As many of you know, I went through 2 periods of unemployment in the last couple of years. I was very fortunate to get this job. I actually look forward to coming to work when I wake up. So that is my shout-out.
I may be starting another blog to do something with my music.... more on that later. I'm Out!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Well, I have got to get better at doing this. I have a couple of things to blog about right now.First and foremost, I would have to say I am proud of our US Military.
I am sure many of you heard that on Easter, 3 US Navy SEAL Snipers shot and killed 3 of the 4 pirates that were holding the Captain of that hijacked vessel hostage. As more and more reports come out about it, I am more and more proud of our military. Those of you who know me know that I have a huge amount of respect for our men and women in uniform. I make it a habit to stop and thank a solider every time I see one. I also tried to join the United States Navy while in High School. I passed everything except the hearing test. For those of you who may not know, I have no hearing in my right ear. I have been that way all my life... well.... since I was 6 months old. I had spinal meningitis, but that is a post for another time. Anyway, I want to encourage all of you to thank a solider when you see them. The looks they give are wonderful because I am sure they do not hear thank you enough.
Secondly, I have finally broken down and decided that I need to loose weight. I went to the docs a couple of days ago and was embarrassed when I stepped on the scale. 284 pounds. YIKES!! I run out of breath while going up the stairs and also when I walk for a while. I want to be able to run with Elijah when he gets older. So, my goal is to loose 10 pounds by the end on the month. I have been able to start the weight loss process. I use to snack (by snack, have 2 sandwiches at 10 PM) and eat out all the time. I have now cut out the snacking (now I eat carrots and oranges) and whenever we go out to eat, I ALWAYS do what I can to get a salad or some sort of grilled chicken.So I will keep everyone updated. I will also try to post more later!Joe
I am sure many of you heard that on Easter, 3 US Navy SEAL Snipers shot and killed 3 of the 4 pirates that were holding the Captain of that hijacked vessel hostage. As more and more reports come out about it, I am more and more proud of our military. Those of you who know me know that I have a huge amount of respect for our men and women in uniform. I make it a habit to stop and thank a solider every time I see one. I also tried to join the United States Navy while in High School. I passed everything except the hearing test. For those of you who may not know, I have no hearing in my right ear. I have been that way all my life... well.... since I was 6 months old. I had spinal meningitis, but that is a post for another time. Anyway, I want to encourage all of you to thank a solider when you see them. The looks they give are wonderful because I am sure they do not hear thank you enough.
Secondly, I have finally broken down and decided that I need to loose weight. I went to the docs a couple of days ago and was embarrassed when I stepped on the scale. 284 pounds. YIKES!! I run out of breath while going up the stairs and also when I walk for a while. I want to be able to run with Elijah when he gets older. So, my goal is to loose 10 pounds by the end on the month. I have been able to start the weight loss process. I use to snack (by snack, have 2 sandwiches at 10 PM) and eat out all the time. I have now cut out the snacking (now I eat carrots and oranges) and whenever we go out to eat, I ALWAYS do what I can to get a salad or some sort of grilled chicken.So I will keep everyone updated. I will also try to post more later!Joe
Friday, January 9, 2009
Captains Log Stardate 01092009.752
Well, I am finally doing it. Entering the world of blogging. Let's see how long this lasts....
A brief introduction in case you have unintentionally stumbled on this page. My name is Joe Raymond. I am almost 30 years old. I am married and have a 1 year old son named Elijah and a dog named Azalea. In my spare time, I enjoy playing Nintendo Wii, listening to Christian Music. ( I have almost 1000 CD's), and spending time with my family. I love Star Wars and am becoming more of an addict to it the older I get. I am a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan, which has gotten me into some trouble here in Baltimore now and then. But hey, I have enjoyed every minute of it. Some would say I have joined the dark side. I never did like the light side of the force anyway. Anyway, that is me in a nutshell.
Now onto business, recently I found out I am being laid off from my job. I work for an emploment agency called Sepherion. I am contracted by them out to XEROX to run the print shop at St. Joseph's Medical Center. I have been here for a few months now. Last December, I was told that due to some changes and downsizing within XEROX, I was going to be let go on Dec. 19. So I started looking around for a new job. Well about a week after I was told they were letting me go, it turns out they were going to keep me after all. I thought great! This is an answer to prayer.
Fast-forward to this past Wednesday, Jan 7. Denise, my boss, told me that they were making more changes within the company and I was being let go. I asked her when and she said very soon. I learned that my replacement would be starting on the 8th. So I figuered that they would keep me through the end of the week and then let me go. As I was listening to Denise talk to her boss, he said to keep me until the new guy is comfortable with the account. That felt kind of like a slap in the face to me.
So yeah, I am going to be unemployed again soon. Why again? I was laid off from my last job working for Standard Register. But that is a story for a different time and place. But hey, I know all things will work out.
So that is it for the first post. I will write more later on.
A brief introduction in case you have unintentionally stumbled on this page. My name is Joe Raymond. I am almost 30 years old. I am married and have a 1 year old son named Elijah and a dog named Azalea. In my spare time, I enjoy playing Nintendo Wii, listening to Christian Music. ( I have almost 1000 CD's), and spending time with my family. I love Star Wars and am becoming more of an addict to it the older I get. I am a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan, which has gotten me into some trouble here in Baltimore now and then. But hey, I have enjoyed every minute of it. Some would say I have joined the dark side. I never did like the light side of the force anyway. Anyway, that is me in a nutshell.
Now onto business, recently I found out I am being laid off from my job. I work for an emploment agency called Sepherion. I am contracted by them out to XEROX to run the print shop at St. Joseph's Medical Center. I have been here for a few months now. Last December, I was told that due to some changes and downsizing within XEROX, I was going to be let go on Dec. 19. So I started looking around for a new job. Well about a week after I was told they were letting me go, it turns out they were going to keep me after all. I thought great! This is an answer to prayer.
Fast-forward to this past Wednesday, Jan 7. Denise, my boss, told me that they were making more changes within the company and I was being let go. I asked her when and she said very soon. I learned that my replacement would be starting on the 8th. So I figuered that they would keep me through the end of the week and then let me go. As I was listening to Denise talk to her boss, he said to keep me until the new guy is comfortable with the account. That felt kind of like a slap in the face to me.
So yeah, I am going to be unemployed again soon. Why again? I was laid off from my last job working for Standard Register. But that is a story for a different time and place. But hey, I know all things will work out.
So that is it for the first post. I will write more later on.
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