Couldn't have happened to a classier guy. . .
Or a better team.
John
Friday, July 27, 2007
Too Famous
Has there ever been a week with so many famous people in trouble? Gees Lindsay. Is your life really so tough that you not only need to drink and drive you need to snort and drive too? I'm not a fan, but still, I thought she was kinda innocent and sweet. Now I just realize she's just too famous for her own good. Speaking of fame, Ms. Spears has yet to recover from hers - you're right Britanny bald and crazy is the new pink. And then there's Nicole Richie, the daughter of the man in the mirror and ex bff of Paris. Another DUI today. Personally, I think she's always drunk but they just test her when she's driving. They should test her at 10am on a Sunday morning. I'm guessing the breathlizer would disintegrate.
And then there's Ms. Duff. To be honest, I've been waiting like Ethan right before freezee time to hear the day she finally goes off the deep end. So far, she's managed to stay fairly sane, that is, until this morning. I just read she's now sucking face with Mike Comrie, a former Oiler. Why Hilary why, you were doing so well. You can suck face with anyone in the world yet you choose a spoiled baby who sat out a year because 2 mil just wasn't enough. I guess its better then snorting while you drive.
Moving on from the chicks we end up at Michael Vick. Arguably the most top rated disapointent in the history of the NFL. Sure he managed to sell a lot of stuff with his name printed on the back but he never actually became the quarterback we all hoped. So, what does one do when you've disapointed everyone you know? Well, apparently you take up dog fighting. That's right, if you can't fight the blitz you might as well fight the bulls. He's even taken his dogs cross country. Well, the doggy doo hit the fan this week and he won't be doing that again for a very long time, at least til next month, especially when he convinces Johnnie to do one last tapdance. Stay away from OJ, that stuff will kill you. Will not, the bloodly glove was a bananna peel.
- Johnnie
Rasmussen. Kicked out of the Tour de France for surprise surprise, lying and cheating? Who cheats in a bicyle race? Poor guy, he was expected to win it all, and was in the lead - but now he's got nothing - except the pride that comes from wearing pants that no longer displays your package.
And finally, our good friend Mr. Bonds. Only 2 pops away from breaking the most hallowed record in all of baseball and yet nobody cares. In fact, Bud himself has made it painfully clear that he would rather race in the Tour then watch Barry break Hank's heart. Still, he attends each game, as all diplomats should. As much as I have admired Bonds over the past 5 years I know he's gotta be more doped up then that dude from Knocked Up. There's no way Barry can put on 75lbs of tone and hit 73 Jacks in his forties unless he's syringing his way to the top. Still, he'll have his 756.
After a week like this I wonder what our 9-19 yr olds think as they watch their role models lie, cheat and dope their way to the top?
Hopefully they see them for what they are. Too famous for their own good.
John
P.S. Now for your warm fuzzy. The African Children's Choir is performing at our church this Sunday morning, 930 and 11am. Yes, they are the same group who just last month, inspired us on American Idol and the Tonight Show. As famous as these kids are, they're different then the above hacks, they're famous for somebody else's good. Speaking of good, our friend Mr. Turner leads them in this mission. Can't wait to hear all his stories.
And then there's Ms. Duff. To be honest, I've been waiting like Ethan right before freezee time to hear the day she finally goes off the deep end. So far, she's managed to stay fairly sane, that is, until this morning. I just read she's now sucking face with Mike Comrie, a former Oiler. Why Hilary why, you were doing so well. You can suck face with anyone in the world yet you choose a spoiled baby who sat out a year because 2 mil just wasn't enough. I guess its better then snorting while you drive.
Moving on from the chicks we end up at Michael Vick. Arguably the most top rated disapointent in the history of the NFL. Sure he managed to sell a lot of stuff with his name printed on the back but he never actually became the quarterback we all hoped. So, what does one do when you've disapointed everyone you know? Well, apparently you take up dog fighting. That's right, if you can't fight the blitz you might as well fight the bulls. He's even taken his dogs cross country. Well, the doggy doo hit the fan this week and he won't be doing that again for a very long time, at least til next month, especially when he convinces Johnnie to do one last tapdance. Stay away from OJ, that stuff will kill you. Will not, the bloodly glove was a bananna peel.
- Johnnie
Rasmussen. Kicked out of the Tour de France for surprise surprise, lying and cheating? Who cheats in a bicyle race? Poor guy, he was expected to win it all, and was in the lead - but now he's got nothing - except the pride that comes from wearing pants that no longer displays your package.
And finally, our good friend Mr. Bonds. Only 2 pops away from breaking the most hallowed record in all of baseball and yet nobody cares. In fact, Bud himself has made it painfully clear that he would rather race in the Tour then watch Barry break Hank's heart. Still, he attends each game, as all diplomats should. As much as I have admired Bonds over the past 5 years I know he's gotta be more doped up then that dude from Knocked Up. There's no way Barry can put on 75lbs of tone and hit 73 Jacks in his forties unless he's syringing his way to the top. Still, he'll have his 756.
After a week like this I wonder what our 9-19 yr olds think as they watch their role models lie, cheat and dope their way to the top?
Hopefully they see them for what they are. Too famous for their own good.
John
P.S. Now for your warm fuzzy. The African Children's Choir is performing at our church this Sunday morning, 930 and 11am. Yes, they are the same group who just last month, inspired us on American Idol and the Tonight Show. As famous as these kids are, they're different then the above hacks, they're famous for somebody else's good. Speaking of good, our friend Mr. Turner leads them in this mission. Can't wait to hear all his stories.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
My Ode
July 18th dropped by today, had some coffee, and is about to leave as quickly as it came. The entire summer has been like this. I remember thinking as crazy June neared its end "man, I can't wait for July, lots of time for reading good books, enjoying nature, camping, relaxing." Hasn't happened. Instead we've attended funerals, entertained parents/inlaws and started a paper route that gets us up at 440am during the week and 6am on weekends. On top of that, we've endured scorching temperatures which makes us want to stay inside our non air conditioned house which yeh, you can guess how much better that is. That being said, I had a good friend tell me the other day that sometimes I sound like a grouchy old man so let me change gears.
I wanted to do this 2 days ago but I was ill so today will have to do. Alexa turned five two days back. Five. The disconcerting thing about that is, its just not possible. There's no way that my youngest has now passed the toddler threshold. How old's your youngest John? Five. Yeesh. If my youngest is five, that makes my oldest. . .9. July 31. Not only that but on that same day my wife slides into her thirties. I can't believe I have a wife in her thirties. 31 is very different then 30 you know. 30 you're still flirting with the twenties but once you're 31 you've passed the point of no return. You free falling towards 4o. Flying more like it. And if my wife is flying towards 40 so am I. 6 days later. August 5. So here we are, flying towards 40 in a non air conditioned house. Crap, still stuck in grouchy gear. Ok, shifting gears. For real.
Alexa just turned 5 years young, man that's young, she might as well be 2. Man I feel young. Angie claims she's daddie's little girl, translation: she's spoiled. I don't know, maybe a bit, but I like to think I spank her just as hard and often as the others. Still, my youngest did just say sianarra to her toddler years so as her father I think its my responsibility to give her - her due props. So here's my Alexa Ode. Note: Unlike most Christian music, this ode won't rhyme and chances are I won't repeat the same line 17 times.
Alexa. She's the besta.
Just kidding.
An Ode to Alexa Cate
Alexa Cate. Did you know I chose your name? Sure did. Your mom didn't like it but I always knew it had to be yours. She finally agreed when she heard it with Cate. If fact, she said they sounded beautiful together. Beautiful.
Like your eyes. Oceans of blue. Your freckles. Divine marks.. Your laugh. The perfect note. Your tummy, ha ha, did you know you used to have a pot? You ate like a bird but you had a beer gut. The gut's gone now, which is good cuz I don't imagine you'd find that joke funny if you were 14. Although you might have, you've always danced to your own beat.
Like the time we were eating at The House of Thai. As we finished our meal we looked up and found you standing with your eyes closed, arms extended in the air and your entire body swaying to the music of Asian culture. You were so entranced by the music and dance you didn't bother to notice your brother and sister's pointed laughs and your parent's desperation not to do the same. That was the first time I knew you'd always be yourself.
I guess that's what I love most. You have always been ok with being yourself. Even if that self wears the oddest combination of clothes, dances in the strangest of places, laughs at the most unsual things and loves a cat more than any human should.
You are a free spirit living each day as it was meant to be lived - Reckless joy.
Reckless joy. Much better than Grouchy old man.
I love you Zesa.
Daddy
I wanted to do this 2 days ago but I was ill so today will have to do. Alexa turned five two days back. Five. The disconcerting thing about that is, its just not possible. There's no way that my youngest has now passed the toddler threshold. How old's your youngest John? Five. Yeesh. If my youngest is five, that makes my oldest. . .9. July 31. Not only that but on that same day my wife slides into her thirties. I can't believe I have a wife in her thirties. 31 is very different then 30 you know. 30 you're still flirting with the twenties but once you're 31 you've passed the point of no return. You free falling towards 4o. Flying more like it. And if my wife is flying towards 40 so am I. 6 days later. August 5. So here we are, flying towards 40 in a non air conditioned house. Crap, still stuck in grouchy gear. Ok, shifting gears. For real.
Alexa just turned 5 years young, man that's young, she might as well be 2. Man I feel young. Angie claims she's daddie's little girl, translation: she's spoiled. I don't know, maybe a bit, but I like to think I spank her just as hard and often as the others. Still, my youngest did just say sianarra to her toddler years so as her father I think its my responsibility to give her - her due props. So here's my Alexa Ode. Note: Unlike most Christian music, this ode won't rhyme and chances are I won't repeat the same line 17 times.
Alexa. She's the besta.
Just kidding.
An Ode to Alexa Cate
Alexa Cate. Did you know I chose your name? Sure did. Your mom didn't like it but I always knew it had to be yours. She finally agreed when she heard it with Cate. If fact, she said they sounded beautiful together. Beautiful.
Like your eyes. Oceans of blue. Your freckles. Divine marks.. Your laugh. The perfect note. Your tummy, ha ha, did you know you used to have a pot? You ate like a bird but you had a beer gut. The gut's gone now, which is good cuz I don't imagine you'd find that joke funny if you were 14. Although you might have, you've always danced to your own beat.
Like the time we were eating at The House of Thai. As we finished our meal we looked up and found you standing with your eyes closed, arms extended in the air and your entire body swaying to the music of Asian culture. You were so entranced by the music and dance you didn't bother to notice your brother and sister's pointed laughs and your parent's desperation not to do the same. That was the first time I knew you'd always be yourself.
I guess that's what I love most. You have always been ok with being yourself. Even if that self wears the oddest combination of clothes, dances in the strangest of places, laughs at the most unsual things and loves a cat more than any human should.
You are a free spirit living each day as it was meant to be lived - Reckless joy.
Reckless joy. Much better than Grouchy old man.
I love you Zesa.
Daddy
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Stabbings
Last night, 3 men and 2 woman were stabbed in Calgary. While it looks like 4 of them will recover, one of the women died. Apparently it was the work of a gang of 5 armed men. The stabbings occured between 4-5am while my wife delivered the same paper that carried the story. As I've thought about this today I've felt everything from fear for my wife's safety and intense anger towards the five cowards. Anyways, I wrote out my feelings and sent them to the Calgary Herald. Although I feel a bit better, the woman's family needs our prayers. Here's the letter I sent to the editor.
Like you, I was horrified by the senseless stabbings of Wednesday night. While most of us slept or battled Stampede hangovers, five armed men sped across our city stabbing our neighbors. Police will now spend the next several days trying to discover the identity of these cowards.
I always thought gangs existed to intimidate other gangs, at the very least, other MEN like them bent on a life of crime. After Wednesday night it appears that gangs are now intent on flexing their muscle against poor defenseless women at 4am, when the rest of us are unable to help. Gang violence is always tragic but when it involves five men killing one woman, the tragic becomes psychotic.
Gang life is a dead end. We've all read the posters. Apparently it is also the way of the coward.
Like you, I was horrified by the senseless stabbings of Wednesday night. While most of us slept or battled Stampede hangovers, five armed men sped across our city stabbing our neighbors. Police will now spend the next several days trying to discover the identity of these cowards.
I always thought gangs existed to intimidate other gangs, at the very least, other MEN like them bent on a life of crime. After Wednesday night it appears that gangs are now intent on flexing their muscle against poor defenseless women at 4am, when the rest of us are unable to help. Gang violence is always tragic but when it involves five men killing one woman, the tragic becomes psychotic.
Gang life is a dead end. We've all read the posters. Apparently it is also the way of the coward.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Edmonton Oilers Fans sing O Canada
As an Oiler fan I needed this today. As a hockey fan, perhaps you did too.
Lowe in the grave we lay.
John
Sunday, July 08, 2007
FYI and Cell Phones
I'm not sure why but I'm not a big fan of people who say FYI out loud. As far as I know FYI was invented by some computer hack intent on cutting his online conversation time in half. So to use it in a sentence while speaking to a friend face to face, why, why would we do that? Are we really in that much of a hurry? "I'm having a really great time tonight but do you mind if we speed up the conversation a bit? For instance, while I could say - For your information I started my new job today, imagine if I abbreviated it down to FYI. FYI I started a new job today. That's like a dozen less letters. A dozen! Plus it brings out my hipness.
So. . .if you don't mind. . .
I do mind. Please don't abbreviate in public. It makes you sound like some corporate cell phone talker that loves doing their chatting as loud as they can to insure that everyone around them knows they're starved for attention and just that important. Nobody's too important to abbreviate. Nobody.
Speaking of cell phones, I've tried to go as long as I can without caving but I actually think I finally need one. Sigh. As I've watched all of you operate yours, I've compiled what I call The Cell Phone Musts. There's 10 as far as I know, make sure to tell me if I've missed one.
First, the smaller the better. In fact, if you really care, you'll wear it on your ear. It looks sexy.
Second, if you're a dude, be sure to wear it on your thin black belt. If you're a lady, deep inside your purse or inside your palm.
Third, make sure its from Telus or Rogers. Fido's a dog's name and Bell is a cheap taco place.
Fourth, only text message someone if they're actually in the same room.
Fifth, choose the most annoying ring tone possible. Remember, when you get a call, its not just you who needs to know, everyone needs to know.
Six, don't ever put the phone on vibrate. See rule number 5.
Seven, makes sure your phone is on at all times. Yes, even during weddings, funerals and when you're out at the theatre.
Eight, when the phone rings, first act shocked that someone would have the nerve to call you while you're at a wedding, funeral or the theatre. Then run out quickly whispering as loud as possible.
Nine, when you answer the phone, speak as loudly as possible. How else will we know you're so popular?
Ten, open and close it as often as you can. Who knows, maybe you missed a call.
And finally, never actually answer it. Just leave a cute message, we love that.
Man I'm excited. I'll be soooo cool.
John
So. . .if you don't mind. . .
I do mind. Please don't abbreviate in public. It makes you sound like some corporate cell phone talker that loves doing their chatting as loud as they can to insure that everyone around them knows they're starved for attention and just that important. Nobody's too important to abbreviate. Nobody.
Speaking of cell phones, I've tried to go as long as I can without caving but I actually think I finally need one. Sigh. As I've watched all of you operate yours, I've compiled what I call The Cell Phone Musts. There's 10 as far as I know, make sure to tell me if I've missed one.
First, the smaller the better. In fact, if you really care, you'll wear it on your ear. It looks sexy.
Second, if you're a dude, be sure to wear it on your thin black belt. If you're a lady, deep inside your purse or inside your palm.
Third, make sure its from Telus or Rogers. Fido's a dog's name and Bell is a cheap taco place.
Fourth, only text message someone if they're actually in the same room.
Fifth, choose the most annoying ring tone possible. Remember, when you get a call, its not just you who needs to know, everyone needs to know.
Six, don't ever put the phone on vibrate. See rule number 5.
Seven, makes sure your phone is on at all times. Yes, even during weddings, funerals and when you're out at the theatre.
Eight, when the phone rings, first act shocked that someone would have the nerve to call you while you're at a wedding, funeral or the theatre. Then run out quickly whispering as loud as possible.
Nine, when you answer the phone, speak as loudly as possible. How else will we know you're so popular?
Ten, open and close it as often as you can. Who knows, maybe you missed a call.
And finally, never actually answer it. Just leave a cute message, we love that.
Man I'm excited. I'll be soooo cool.
John
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Marge
Angie and I returned late last night from BC. We were melting along with Chelsey and 75 other Close/Roberts. 37 degrees??? Cmon Salmon Arm, who do you think you are, Phoenix? Anyways, what brought us all together was the passing of Marge Roberts, our mother, sister, grandmother, and Aunt.
I recently read -"you only have one life to live, but if you live it right, one is more than enough." Marge lived hers right. Not only did she raise 6 incredible children - all who have gone on to change the faces of churches across Western Canada, she worked for 20 years changing lives at Western Christian College. She was the kind of lady dreampt about in Proverbs 31. She was Bert's soul mate and my dad's best friend. 5 minutes after she died she stared into the face of God while Bert, her first born Blair and my dad stared back. My dad said she had a noticeable smile, her first in weeks.
I commented to Mark and Blair that Christians are wierd. There we all were, gathered at a funeral to mourn the loss of our Marge yet smiles could be seen and laughter could be heard. Even jokes were told. After the funeral, the entire family - all 65 of us, gathered at the local Chinese Eatery to celebrate. Celebrate? What is wrong with us? Marge died, could you pass the won tons please. But it wasn't like that. This is what Marge would have wanted, was said often. The tension between our grief and relief was obvious.
Christians are wierd. While millions mourn the loss of thier loved ones each year Christians celebrate knowing life has just begun. Grief is for us. We're sad for us. How could we feel sadness for Marge? She's exchanged chronic pain, for chronic joy. Her biggest concern now is who should she talk to first, Mother Theresa or Moses. And what should she ask God? Suppose she only is allowed 3 questions? How will she decide?
Were Mosquitos really necessary?
Will my family be ok without me?
Did you really help Justin Timberlake win his last grammy?
What makes you laugh?
Uh, hey, so, I have this nephew and he really want his Oilers to do well so I was wondering if. . .
I'll miss you Marge. And yes, I'll keep your grandsons in line.
John
I recently read -"you only have one life to live, but if you live it right, one is more than enough." Marge lived hers right. Not only did she raise 6 incredible children - all who have gone on to change the faces of churches across Western Canada, she worked for 20 years changing lives at Western Christian College. She was the kind of lady dreampt about in Proverbs 31. She was Bert's soul mate and my dad's best friend. 5 minutes after she died she stared into the face of God while Bert, her first born Blair and my dad stared back. My dad said she had a noticeable smile, her first in weeks.
I commented to Mark and Blair that Christians are wierd. There we all were, gathered at a funeral to mourn the loss of our Marge yet smiles could be seen and laughter could be heard. Even jokes were told. After the funeral, the entire family - all 65 of us, gathered at the local Chinese Eatery to celebrate. Celebrate? What is wrong with us? Marge died, could you pass the won tons please. But it wasn't like that. This is what Marge would have wanted, was said often. The tension between our grief and relief was obvious.
Christians are wierd. While millions mourn the loss of thier loved ones each year Christians celebrate knowing life has just begun. Grief is for us. We're sad for us. How could we feel sadness for Marge? She's exchanged chronic pain, for chronic joy. Her biggest concern now is who should she talk to first, Mother Theresa or Moses. And what should she ask God? Suppose she only is allowed 3 questions? How will she decide?
Were Mosquitos really necessary?
Will my family be ok without me?
Did you really help Justin Timberlake win his last grammy?
What makes you laugh?
Uh, hey, so, I have this nephew and he really want his Oilers to do well so I was wondering if. . .
I'll miss you Marge. And yes, I'll keep your grandsons in line.
John
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Disgracebook
Holy Hanna. Write one blog slamming Facebook and the next thing I know I'm avoiding dark alleys and staying indoors.
If I made you feel like a moron for liking Facebook, my apologies. I wasn't slamming the entire Book itself, and certainly wasn't slamming you, I was just pointing out that much of Facebook is Fadish cheese that annoys me to no end.
Still, as I've already said, I too have a Facebook account and even check it. I like the fact that I now know where Torrey Willett and Nathan Kirkam, to name a few, are. I like how I can update them on who I am, where I am and what I've done the past decade. That's cool.
But all the other crappidy daily commentary that gets fed to us as news makes me want to stay away forever.
Still, I'm here. So go ahead, Friend Me.
Just don't tell me what you're doing this very minute. I don't care.
John
If I made you feel like a moron for liking Facebook, my apologies. I wasn't slamming the entire Book itself, and certainly wasn't slamming you, I was just pointing out that much of Facebook is Fadish cheese that annoys me to no end.
Still, as I've already said, I too have a Facebook account and even check it. I like the fact that I now know where Torrey Willett and Nathan Kirkam, to name a few, are. I like how I can update them on who I am, where I am and what I've done the past decade. That's cool.
But all the other crappidy daily commentary that gets fed to us as news makes me want to stay away forever.
Still, I'm here. So go ahead, Friend Me.
Just don't tell me what you're doing this very minute. I don't care.
John
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Tyler Mullendore - Canadian Idol June 25, 2007
This guy is the real deal.
Note: I picked him to win it all in his first audition.
Note: Yes John watches Canadian Idol.
Shane Claiborne at Fusion Youth
If you have 50min, and you just might because its the summer, watch this message. Its one of the best I've heard period.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Great New Book
I just started reading this book. I just finished the first chapter and already I know its going to be one of those reads that rocks my comfy world.
Here's my favorite quote from the first chapter. "The gloating Hummer owner may preen with macho pride, unaware or simply uncaring of the fact that he drives an ecological behemoth that saunders fossil fuel resources, pollutes the environment, and make the United States more dependant than ever on foreign oil resources - contributing quite inadvertantly to the justification for Middle East military interventions he otherwise vehemently opposes."
Note: The Hummer was actually created as a vehicle for the military to be used in the deserts of the middle east. Yet. . .everyday on my way to work I pass one roaming the streets of Suburbia.
Makes you wonder a lot of things.
John
Here's my favorite quote from the first chapter. "The gloating Hummer owner may preen with macho pride, unaware or simply uncaring of the fact that he drives an ecological behemoth that saunders fossil fuel resources, pollutes the environment, and make the United States more dependant than ever on foreign oil resources - contributing quite inadvertantly to the justification for Middle East military interventions he otherwise vehemently opposes."
Note: The Hummer was actually created as a vehicle for the military to be used in the deserts of the middle east. Yet. . .everyday on my way to work I pass one roaming the streets of Suburbia.
Makes you wonder a lot of things.
John
Sunday, June 24, 2007
paper boy
Wow. It's been a while. I feel like I'm intruding on someone else's phone conversation or awkwardly sidestepping my way into a cluster of visitors in the church lobby. But then, if I don't blog for a while I feel snotty. Conundrum.
I would like to give a few updates, the first being that the kids are going to school next year. Cool school. Calgary Arts Academy, to be exact. It's arts immersion with no desks, so I was sold. Yes, we're wierd, but wierd people need wierd schools, or they homeschool, and that was great while we did it. As a matter of fact, I'm pretty sad about having to miss out on homeschooling next year. Really, I could cry. But Maddie was ready and Alexa will love it and it will be good for Ethan who is surrounded by girls all the time (even our street is full of little girls, not a boy to be seen). But, I'll miss it, and when my friends Hope and Claudia go on their picnics and field trips and zoo days I'll try not to leave jealous, mean spirited messages on their machines.
We went to CAA for a school tour, thinking we would be put on a three year waiting list and for some reason (I'm guessing it had to do with our knock out personalities) the principle gave us the last spots in each of our kids grades. Aside from turning to give John an ecstatic thumbs up but accidentally giving it to the principle instead, and the crying on the way home because I was instantly thrown into jilted mother without a job mode, we're thrilled. I'm not going to mention how John tried to comfort me by suggesting I get a job at Tim Horton's or drive bus. I'm also not going to mention how I responded with all the ways that I supported him while he followed his dreams, including living in Yuppieville, going into debt for his educaton and singing Days of Elijah at church while clapping. That stuff is private, so don't even ask about it. I'm just saying, it's his turn. Nine years, I'm not kidding.
What will I do? No idea. Just guess how scary that is. Possibly some kind of education with debt and maybe several workdays at Starbucks with the laptop and a half sweet white chocolate whipped mocha. What kind of workdays? Don't know. For now, I've got a paper route. No, it's not exactly a step up from wearing the Tim Horton's visor or lurching around the city in a giant yellow bus. But it means I can bring in an actual income and still be at home with Lex every afternoon, and when ever else the kids are off. Plus, the education. The debt. The workdays. We need time for these things.
So, here I am. Thirty, almost thirty-one, pulling my little red wagon down the street every morning at four o'clock, limping because I have a blister, sweating because it's a serious workout or I'm seriously out of shape, soaking wet (it poured for my first two days), tripping (sometimes), wiping out (once when I couldn't see over the stack of papers I was carrying), getting yelled at, stared at, honked at and hitting some green truck's side mirror with my side mirror but there was no damage so who needs to know.
It's a new phase for me, I just hope it doesn't end at papers. I just hope I can find something I love to do and I'm good at. Maybe that's what's so scary. The thought that I won't find that thing, so I'll do papers until I retire at 65 with a little silver plated wagon to put on my mantle. Nothing against silver plated wagons.
And just a little reminder- be nice to your paper person. It's probably an eight year old boy, but even so.
Ang
I would like to give a few updates, the first being that the kids are going to school next year. Cool school. Calgary Arts Academy, to be exact. It's arts immersion with no desks, so I was sold. Yes, we're wierd, but wierd people need wierd schools, or they homeschool, and that was great while we did it. As a matter of fact, I'm pretty sad about having to miss out on homeschooling next year. Really, I could cry. But Maddie was ready and Alexa will love it and it will be good for Ethan who is surrounded by girls all the time (even our street is full of little girls, not a boy to be seen). But, I'll miss it, and when my friends Hope and Claudia go on their picnics and field trips and zoo days I'll try not to leave jealous, mean spirited messages on their machines.
We went to CAA for a school tour, thinking we would be put on a three year waiting list and for some reason (I'm guessing it had to do with our knock out personalities) the principle gave us the last spots in each of our kids grades. Aside from turning to give John an ecstatic thumbs up but accidentally giving it to the principle instead, and the crying on the way home because I was instantly thrown into jilted mother without a job mode, we're thrilled. I'm not going to mention how John tried to comfort me by suggesting I get a job at Tim Horton's or drive bus. I'm also not going to mention how I responded with all the ways that I supported him while he followed his dreams, including living in Yuppieville, going into debt for his educaton and singing Days of Elijah at church while clapping. That stuff is private, so don't even ask about it. I'm just saying, it's his turn. Nine years, I'm not kidding.
What will I do? No idea. Just guess how scary that is. Possibly some kind of education with debt and maybe several workdays at Starbucks with the laptop and a half sweet white chocolate whipped mocha. What kind of workdays? Don't know. For now, I've got a paper route. No, it's not exactly a step up from wearing the Tim Horton's visor or lurching around the city in a giant yellow bus. But it means I can bring in an actual income and still be at home with Lex every afternoon, and when ever else the kids are off. Plus, the education. The debt. The workdays. We need time for these things.
So, here I am. Thirty, almost thirty-one, pulling my little red wagon down the street every morning at four o'clock, limping because I have a blister, sweating because it's a serious workout or I'm seriously out of shape, soaking wet (it poured for my first two days), tripping (sometimes), wiping out (once when I couldn't see over the stack of papers I was carrying), getting yelled at, stared at, honked at and hitting some green truck's side mirror with my side mirror but there was no damage so who needs to know.
It's a new phase for me, I just hope it doesn't end at papers. I just hope I can find something I love to do and I'm good at. Maybe that's what's so scary. The thought that I won't find that thing, so I'll do papers until I retire at 65 with a little silver plated wagon to put on my mantle. Nothing against silver plated wagons.
And just a little reminder- be nice to your paper person. It's probably an eight year old boy, but even so.
Ang
Saturday, June 23, 2007
That's it. I've had enough. I tried for a good month to believe Facebook is the best thing since the printing press (why is sliced bread our 'go to' metaphor) but I can't take it any longer. So here's my rip.
Facebook is hokey, cheesy and causes me more nausea then Ben Mulroney.
"John Doe is feeling tired"
"Susie May has left the group Ottawa Senators"
"Jane Smith is now friends with Becky Botsworth."
"Victor Johnson has changed his profile picture"
"June Costello is chillaxing this weekend."
AHHHHHHHHHHH! Have you ever read anything more shallow in your life?
Here's the long and short of it.
Feeling tired? Yawn.
Left the Senators group? Yawn.
Changing your profile picture? Yawn.
Chillaxing this weekend? Gag.
Sorry if I'm stepping on some toes here but my goodness people, must we be reduced to ooey gooey balls of superficiality and cheese in order to stay in touch?
Its time one of us took a stand. I say us because, yes I also have a facebook account. That fact gives me the right to speak into this I think. I joined the thing for one reason - to find long lost friends. And I have. Just yesterday two of my best buddies from high-school found me and that was really cool. That's where Facebook shines.
But all the other useless, irrelevent, moronic "news" deserves to be banned. In fact, I think I'm going to write to the facebook team and suggest that the next time someone informs the world that they're "chillaxing" this weekend, they should feel free to drive to that person's house, confiscate their computer then slap them on the way out.
Now I've probably offended most of you and I'm sure you feel I'm way off so I'm gonna shut-up now. That being said, if you do happen to wonder if its possible that I'm right here's a little experiment you can do.
Next time you talk to your friends Face to Face, hopefully you still do that, look them in the eye and say any one of the following:
"Hey, I changed my profile picture."
"Did you hear, I spent the weekend chillaxing."
"I'm feeling tired, just thought you might want to know."
If your friend doesn't fall into a boredom induced coma then by all means continue.
Regards,
John
Facebook is hokey, cheesy and causes me more nausea then Ben Mulroney.
"John Doe is feeling tired"
"Susie May has left the group Ottawa Senators"
"Jane Smith is now friends with Becky Botsworth."
"Victor Johnson has changed his profile picture"
"June Costello is chillaxing this weekend."
AHHHHHHHHHHH! Have you ever read anything more shallow in your life?
Here's the long and short of it.
Feeling tired? Yawn.
Left the Senators group? Yawn.
Changing your profile picture? Yawn.
Chillaxing this weekend? Gag.
Sorry if I'm stepping on some toes here but my goodness people, must we be reduced to ooey gooey balls of superficiality and cheese in order to stay in touch?
Its time one of us took a stand. I say us because, yes I also have a facebook account. That fact gives me the right to speak into this I think. I joined the thing for one reason - to find long lost friends. And I have. Just yesterday two of my best buddies from high-school found me and that was really cool. That's where Facebook shines.
But all the other useless, irrelevent, moronic "news" deserves to be banned. In fact, I think I'm going to write to the facebook team and suggest that the next time someone informs the world that they're "chillaxing" this weekend, they should feel free to drive to that person's house, confiscate their computer then slap them on the way out.
Now I've probably offended most of you and I'm sure you feel I'm way off so I'm gonna shut-up now. That being said, if you do happen to wonder if its possible that I'm right here's a little experiment you can do.
Next time you talk to your friends Face to Face, hopefully you still do that, look them in the eye and say any one of the following:
"Hey, I changed my profile picture."
"Did you hear, I spent the weekend chillaxing."
"I'm feeling tired, just thought you might want to know."
If your friend doesn't fall into a boredom induced coma then by all means continue.
Regards,
John
Monday, June 11, 2007
Action
This past month has been like an action movie - constant motion with a sub par plot. Oh yeah, and a hot chick. Love ya Ang. We're scheduled to finish shooting this month, about the same time summer rolls into town.
As I peruse your blogs it appears you are shooting the same film. Sometimes there is so much life to shoot its hard to find time to do normal things like blog, stay in touch with friends, shower, etc.
Speaking of action, Angie just informed me that our darling cat Rusty may in fact be dead, squished in the head from a miscellaneous driver. As Maddison and I ran over, hearts pumping, there the cat laid, stuck to the road like a block of furry ice. After 10 minutes of poking and prodding with a stick borrowed from a concerned neighbor it became obvious it wasn't Rusty but the property of 294-6454. We came home relieved yet saddened that some poor little girl named Daisy with solid pigtails and a million dollar smile was about to discover that her best friend Ginger would not be coming home for supper tonight, or any night. I ended the bad news conversation by encouraging them to view the body before the City trucks transported Ginger to the afterdump. Ready, Set, Action. So much action.
Yesterday my teens led our Sunday morning church service. We had 20+ involved in everything from greeting, to handing out bulletins, to leading us in worship, to passing and praying but most of all acting, in a skit we wrote called The Grind. It ended up being an amazing morning and once again I was reminded why it is that I do what I do. Witnessing a teen living up to their potential is about as rare as catching a rose in mid bloom but oh what a sight when you do catch a view. As I end my 6th year in the biz, the witness of such things continues to insure another year in the game. We end off the year with our annual garage sale this week, all profits sending the teens and me to Mexico next summer - as well , we are honoring our grads with a John Style Banquet.
Last night I stayed up late watching presidential hopefulls Obama, Edwards and Hilary do their best to convince the world that God is the greatest and so are they. Jim Wallis organized the thing and I actually quite enjoyed it when I gave them all the benefit of the doubt. Who would have thought the day would ever come when America would pin their leadership hopes on a black man, a chick and a guy with an annoying accent. I was most impressed by Hilary. Although I do wonder how she'll juggle the responsibilities of both the United States of America and the kitchen. Oh right, its 2007, kitchen's out.
Our van is having trouble again. In the past year our Montana has managed to squeeze us for more then $6000 so when this last debacle involving wheel bearings and tie rod endings occured, I could have screamed but I decided to have a garage sale instead. 12 hours later. We woke up the next morning at 6am eager to make hundreds and by noon we had $5. I could have screamed but I decided to see the humor in the situation, there was none except for a guy that bought our mattress and box spring and asked me to help carry it to his house which was just down the road. Half a km later, no joke, we arrived at his house grunting and sweari I mean sweating. We got it all in 4 trips. The $50 we sold it for didn't stop my muscles from twitching. By 4pm we had managed to get $400 and change.
Well I should go, its Maddie and Daddy time and then Ethan and I (I'm his coach) have a soccer game tonight although I just heard thunder. . .
Peace out.
John
As I peruse your blogs it appears you are shooting the same film. Sometimes there is so much life to shoot its hard to find time to do normal things like blog, stay in touch with friends, shower, etc.
Speaking of action, Angie just informed me that our darling cat Rusty may in fact be dead, squished in the head from a miscellaneous driver. As Maddison and I ran over, hearts pumping, there the cat laid, stuck to the road like a block of furry ice. After 10 minutes of poking and prodding with a stick borrowed from a concerned neighbor it became obvious it wasn't Rusty but the property of 294-6454. We came home relieved yet saddened that some poor little girl named Daisy with solid pigtails and a million dollar smile was about to discover that her best friend Ginger would not be coming home for supper tonight, or any night. I ended the bad news conversation by encouraging them to view the body before the City trucks transported Ginger to the afterdump. Ready, Set, Action. So much action.
Yesterday my teens led our Sunday morning church service. We had 20+ involved in everything from greeting, to handing out bulletins, to leading us in worship, to passing and praying but most of all acting, in a skit we wrote called The Grind. It ended up being an amazing morning and once again I was reminded why it is that I do what I do. Witnessing a teen living up to their potential is about as rare as catching a rose in mid bloom but oh what a sight when you do catch a view. As I end my 6th year in the biz, the witness of such things continues to insure another year in the game. We end off the year with our annual garage sale this week, all profits sending the teens and me to Mexico next summer - as well , we are honoring our grads with a John Style Banquet.
Last night I stayed up late watching presidential hopefulls Obama, Edwards and Hilary do their best to convince the world that God is the greatest and so are they. Jim Wallis organized the thing and I actually quite enjoyed it when I gave them all the benefit of the doubt. Who would have thought the day would ever come when America would pin their leadership hopes on a black man, a chick and a guy with an annoying accent. I was most impressed by Hilary. Although I do wonder how she'll juggle the responsibilities of both the United States of America and the kitchen. Oh right, its 2007, kitchen's out.
Our van is having trouble again. In the past year our Montana has managed to squeeze us for more then $6000 so when this last debacle involving wheel bearings and tie rod endings occured, I could have screamed but I decided to have a garage sale instead. 12 hours later. We woke up the next morning at 6am eager to make hundreds and by noon we had $5. I could have screamed but I decided to see the humor in the situation, there was none except for a guy that bought our mattress and box spring and asked me to help carry it to his house which was just down the road. Half a km later, no joke, we arrived at his house grunting and sweari I mean sweating. We got it all in 4 trips. The $50 we sold it for didn't stop my muscles from twitching. By 4pm we had managed to get $400 and change.
Well I should go, its Maddie and Daddy time and then Ethan and I (I'm his coach) have a soccer game tonight although I just heard thunder. . .
Peace out.
John
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Our kiddos
This was taken yesterday at the Zoo.All is well with us except apparently we no longer blog. Must be the summer or something.
We'll get back into it at some point I'm sure. For now, just know we are busy with soccer, end of year stuff, and are excited to see the grandparents this summer.
John
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Monday, May 28, 2007
Blaine and Angel revealed
Hey. I just came across this website which reveals how the above two supernatural geniuses do their very human tricks.
That being said, the guys are still incredible.
John
That being said, the guys are still incredible.
John
Saturday, May 26, 2007
My Dad retired
Yesterday my dad officially retired from teaching. The above picture is him at his retirement party. The lady behind him is the principal of the school and the hottie beside him is my mom. Never thought I'd use those two words in the same sentence. Guess which two. For those of you born outside North America, my pops spent 35 years on the job, 30 at Western Christian College and the final 5 in the Public School sytem of Lexington, South Carolina. Nearly all of you have either had him as a teacher or know someone who did. Even I sat in his famous science classes, in fact, if you asked him, I'm sure he'd tell you his 1992 version was the worst of his entire career. Sigh. The trouble with growing up with a great teacher is its too easy to take him for granted, which I did, all too often. Many times I've wished to sit in his classroom again. I'll save my dad tribute for next month but I will say this - I've never known a better man then my father. He embodies the biblical virtue of "working at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord and not for men."Although he's retired there'll be no daytime teley for him. Word on the street is he's considering online teaching. 71 and still doing what he loves. That's my dad.
I love you pops,
John
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Must See TV
Man. LOST ended its 3rd season tonight with the best finale I've ever seen. I'm already wondering how I'm going to last until next fall. I'm not sure what to make of my addiction. Do I continue to shoot up so as long as I practice moderation or too I throw away the syringe and play cards instead? Harsh metaphor my wife chirps and I have to agree but still, is it really that far off? Must see TV. Must. See. Hmm.
And then there's American Idol. Speaking of addiction. 75 million voted last night?!?!?! I actually watched much of this season even though I found the contestants a degree better then 1994's Sonshine. No John, its not mistake, we really believe you have potential as a tenor. Uh huh. Melinda was cool and I actually cheered for her, mostly because she always seemed genuinely surprised to be on the show which convinced me she was either really humble or astonishly stupid but now she's gone. As I type the Finale hums in the background. I already know Jordin wins, thanks to Yahoo, but still Idol blares away mostly because Dave Turn me over and check if I'm still breathing cuz I'm on the most popular show on TV for the second time in month - is once again accompanying his terrific 26. But that's not the only reason.
I also read Green Day performs tonight. Green Day on American Idol? Are you friggin joking? That is honestly just as surprising as finding out Jack was a flash forward tonight. I hate to judge my man Billy A but what??? Apparently the cliche is true, we all have our price. Still if 1997 Billy met 2007 Billy in an alley, I'm pretty sure the former would kick the latters blank.
Its remarkable really when you consider how into a show we can get. I remember joking with Ang years ago saying "I miss Jack" referring of course to Mr. Bauer although I guess it also works with Lost. Still, its amazing how your mind can actually convince you that the characters you must see every week are real. We all know they're not but our beating heart and tears sure are.
I know I know you're all bracing for it. The Reverend is about to sky dump on Hollywood. Nah, I'm not. To do that would be incredibly hyprocritical not to mention wrong. Actually Dr. James, I don't believe Hollywood is waging war on the family. And cool post modern preacher, I don't believe Hollywood is getting more spiritual. Hollywood is in the business of making money not morals, that my friends is our job. Yours and mine. Mine and yours. Ours.
Hmm, Ryan just gave Jordin and Blake a mustang each. Apparently AI doesn't think 76 milllion screaming fans is enough, then need to go from 0-60 in under 10 too.
I haven't written in a while so sorry if this is a bit scattered but it feels good to be back banging these squares.
Enough about media although I plan to read this book real soon. I read the first 10 pages in Chapters the other day and have had to mousse my neck hair ever since. I also saw Shrek 3 on Monday and once again I laughed louder then the kids. Sigh.
Before I sign off, I should update you on things that matter. Angie is as amazing as ever as she schools our kids and makes me feel better then I know I am. Maddison enters her final year of single digits this July, Ethan plays soccer two days a week and the other day we had to get the jaws of life to pry me off of Alexa's little finger. Again. Oh yes, before I forget, Hugo's doing great Jeremy, he turns 1 next month and is huge. Jack and Rusty are still alive.
As for me, I am ending my 6th year of youth ministry which means 2 things. I'm old and gees I'm old. Things at the church are going wel - oh man Dave's choir just came out, just a sec. Wow, they are something special. I still can't believe they are coming to Calgary CofC July 29th. Two performances by the way, 930am and 11. Hope to see you there.
Shutup Sanjayya. Bring on Billy A.
John
P.S. I was just about to push publish when Ryan announced Green Day. His song's for Darfur. Ok, I take it back. Still in an alley, he'd be finished.
And then there's American Idol. Speaking of addiction. 75 million voted last night?!?!?! I actually watched much of this season even though I found the contestants a degree better then 1994's Sonshine. No John, its not mistake, we really believe you have potential as a tenor. Uh huh. Melinda was cool and I actually cheered for her, mostly because she always seemed genuinely surprised to be on the show which convinced me she was either really humble or astonishly stupid but now she's gone. As I type the Finale hums in the background. I already know Jordin wins, thanks to Yahoo, but still Idol blares away mostly because Dave Turn me over and check if I'm still breathing cuz I'm on the most popular show on TV for the second time in month - is once again accompanying his terrific 26. But that's not the only reason.
I also read Green Day performs tonight. Green Day on American Idol? Are you friggin joking? That is honestly just as surprising as finding out Jack was a flash forward tonight. I hate to judge my man Billy A but what??? Apparently the cliche is true, we all have our price. Still if 1997 Billy met 2007 Billy in an alley, I'm pretty sure the former would kick the latters blank.
Its remarkable really when you consider how into a show we can get. I remember joking with Ang years ago saying "I miss Jack" referring of course to Mr. Bauer although I guess it also works with Lost. Still, its amazing how your mind can actually convince you that the characters you must see every week are real. We all know they're not but our beating heart and tears sure are.
I know I know you're all bracing for it. The Reverend is about to sky dump on Hollywood. Nah, I'm not. To do that would be incredibly hyprocritical not to mention wrong. Actually Dr. James, I don't believe Hollywood is waging war on the family. And cool post modern preacher, I don't believe Hollywood is getting more spiritual. Hollywood is in the business of making money not morals, that my friends is our job. Yours and mine. Mine and yours. Ours.
Hmm, Ryan just gave Jordin and Blake a mustang each. Apparently AI doesn't think 76 milllion screaming fans is enough, then need to go from 0-60 in under 10 too.
I haven't written in a while so sorry if this is a bit scattered but it feels good to be back banging these squares.
Enough about media although I plan to read this book real soon. I read the first 10 pages in Chapters the other day and have had to mousse my neck hair ever since. I also saw Shrek 3 on Monday and once again I laughed louder then the kids. Sigh.
Before I sign off, I should update you on things that matter. Angie is as amazing as ever as she schools our kids and makes me feel better then I know I am. Maddison enters her final year of single digits this July, Ethan plays soccer two days a week and the other day we had to get the jaws of life to pry me off of Alexa's little finger. Again. Oh yes, before I forget, Hugo's doing great Jeremy, he turns 1 next month and is huge. Jack and Rusty are still alive.
As for me, I am ending my 6th year of youth ministry which means 2 things. I'm old and gees I'm old. Things at the church are going wel - oh man Dave's choir just came out, just a sec. Wow, they are something special. I still can't believe they are coming to Calgary CofC July 29th. Two performances by the way, 930am and 11. Hope to see you there.
Shutup Sanjayya. Bring on Billy A.
John
P.S. I was just about to push publish when Ryan announced Green Day. His song's for Darfur. Ok, I take it back. Still in an alley, he'd be finished.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Nick
Nick's back in eh country. Ty, Jordan, Heather and I just chilled with him at the airport and I laughed harder then I have in a long long time. Nick's good for that, even when he's working on no sleep.
I asked him what's next and he said - "absolutely no idea." He better blog, that's all I'm saying.
Anyways, sorry Olson clan but I saw your Nick before you. So that pretty much makes me the Lord of your Universe.
John
I asked him what's next and he said - "absolutely no idea." He better blog, that's all I'm saying.
Anyways, sorry Olson clan but I saw your Nick before you. So that pretty much makes me the Lord of your Universe.
John
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Mom
I know I suggested it but dang, its hard to put into words how you feel about the woman that is your mother. Its been said that you love your wife the best but your mother the longest. I guess that's true.
The earliest memories I have of my mom involve talk to me players. I'd get up at inhumane hours and if I wasn't puking I'd be asking her to cook me "some two eggs." Not once do I remember her booting my sorry butt back to bed. She'd either clean up my puke or make me my eggs. After she got my dad off to work me and ol mom would head back to bed where she'd tell me stories and sing me songs like "you are my sunshine" and "whoop there it is." Kidding, whoop was after my time. After Mother on Broadway I'd head off to bed so she could catch a few winks before beginning her role as Girl's Dorm Director. I usually wasn't tired so mom would set me up with my talk to me player. It was like a 1980's version of gameboy or something. I loved that thing. It would talk to me, well, read me stories at least, which worked out great for mom. Poor lady, she really needed her sleep.
As I got older Talk to me Player talked to other kids instead although mom still cared for me just the same. The truth is, my mom has always been my biggest fan. As well as my loudest.
It didn't matter what I was doing my mom always felt the need to let me and everyone else know that she thought I was pretty special. At times it got embarassing because I'd have just fouled out or missed a wide open shot but my mom still cheered just as loud, as if she never recieved the "your son sucks" memo. I can still hear her, like it was yestereday. "Goooo John, Yay John George." Sigh.
Besides cleaning up puke, making me eggs, cheering her face off and keeping me alive my mom has become a woman I truly admire and respect. For those of you that don't know, my mom turns____ next year and while most woman that age would be thinking of how many perennials they might like to plant, she has pumped out 2 Masters degrees and just recently got accepted into a Doctorate Program at a university in Philly. Dang that's impressive. I just completed one class and I feel like the king of the world. Besides all her edu, she also works for my bro's church as the part time counselor. And I can tell you first hand, she's amazing.
Last year I was a mess in more ways than one and she single handedly made me believe that not only would I get through it, I would be the better for it. And I did, and I am. I don't know what I would have done if she hadn't been there when I needed her. She always has been though, been there I mean, and its changed my life. I am the man I am today largely because my mom has always been there to advise, encourage, love and forgive, but most importantly cheer.
Well mom, today is your day, so put down those pom poms.
Its my turn now.
Goooo Karen, Yay Karen Mariotte. . .
John
The earliest memories I have of my mom involve talk to me players. I'd get up at inhumane hours and if I wasn't puking I'd be asking her to cook me "some two eggs." Not once do I remember her booting my sorry butt back to bed. She'd either clean up my puke or make me my eggs. After she got my dad off to work me and ol mom would head back to bed where she'd tell me stories and sing me songs like "you are my sunshine" and "whoop there it is." Kidding, whoop was after my time. After Mother on Broadway I'd head off to bed so she could catch a few winks before beginning her role as Girl's Dorm Director. I usually wasn't tired so mom would set me up with my talk to me player. It was like a 1980's version of gameboy or something. I loved that thing. It would talk to me, well, read me stories at least, which worked out great for mom. Poor lady, she really needed her sleep.
As I got older Talk to me Player talked to other kids instead although mom still cared for me just the same. The truth is, my mom has always been my biggest fan. As well as my loudest.
It didn't matter what I was doing my mom always felt the need to let me and everyone else know that she thought I was pretty special. At times it got embarassing because I'd have just fouled out or missed a wide open shot but my mom still cheered just as loud, as if she never recieved the "your son sucks" memo. I can still hear her, like it was yestereday. "Goooo John, Yay John George." Sigh.
Besides cleaning up puke, making me eggs, cheering her face off and keeping me alive my mom has become a woman I truly admire and respect. For those of you that don't know, my mom turns____ next year and while most woman that age would be thinking of how many perennials they might like to plant, she has pumped out 2 Masters degrees and just recently got accepted into a Doctorate Program at a university in Philly. Dang that's impressive. I just completed one class and I feel like the king of the world. Besides all her edu, she also works for my bro's church as the part time counselor. And I can tell you first hand, she's amazing.
Last year I was a mess in more ways than one and she single handedly made me believe that not only would I get through it, I would be the better for it. And I did, and I am. I don't know what I would have done if she hadn't been there when I needed her. She always has been though, been there I mean, and its changed my life. I am the man I am today largely because my mom has always been there to advise, encourage, love and forgive, but most importantly cheer.
Well mom, today is your day, so put down those pom poms.
Its my turn now.
Goooo Karen, Yay Karen Mariotte. . .
John
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Grid Blog - Mother's Day
I know, how original.
Still, if we can Grid-blog about hell, baptism, the earth, Easter and consumerism surely we can blog about our Mothers. The one who loves us most.
Note: This also applies to the mother of your children.
John
P.S. Do it up nice, these woman are powerful.
Still, if we can Grid-blog about hell, baptism, the earth, Easter and consumerism surely we can blog about our Mothers. The one who loves us most.
Note: This also applies to the mother of your children.
John
P.S. Do it up nice, these woman are powerful.
My friend Shauna
My friend and former teen, Shauna Luedtke, is featured on Ellen today. Well her shoes are. Actually both her and her shoes are. She's not on Ellen but her shoes are. I know, kinda confusing, just watch.
In her spare time, which is very minimal, Shauna has managed to launch a completely original shoe business. I could explain what its all about but a non artsy person trying to explain the work of an artist is like my dear wife giving us all a rundown of this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs. So, I'll let her art speak for herself.
Ellen is on at 11am and 7pm mst. today, which is Thursday. I think you should watch.
Btw - Shauna just informed me that because I was such a fantastic youth minister she is planning on tithing 10% of all her fame and glory and - profits - back to me.
Nice girl that Shauna Luedtke. Talented too.
John
P.S. If you would like her to make you some shoes, she will. You design and decide and she'll do em up. So go to her website and order today. Angie's getting some Picasso ones done. Because she's artsy. Like Shauna. I got some Oiler shoes done because I'm not artsy and unlike some people I could give you a rundown of this years playoffs. But I won't. My Oilers wouldn't appreciate it.
In her spare time, which is very minimal, Shauna has managed to launch a completely original shoe business. I could explain what its all about but a non artsy person trying to explain the work of an artist is like my dear wife giving us all a rundown of this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs. So, I'll let her art speak for herself.
Ellen is on at 11am and 7pm mst. today, which is Thursday. I think you should watch.
Btw - Shauna just informed me that because I was such a fantastic youth minister she is planning on tithing 10% of all her fame and glory and - profits - back to me.
Nice girl that Shauna Luedtke. Talented too.
John
P.S. If you would like her to make you some shoes, she will. You design and decide and she'll do em up. So go to her website and order today. Angie's getting some Picasso ones done. Because she's artsy. Like Shauna. I got some Oiler shoes done because I'm not artsy and unlike some people I could give you a rundown of this years playoffs. But I won't. My Oilers wouldn't appreciate it.
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