Sweatin'

Summer?

It sure feels like it here. Monday was warm, today was warmer... actually hot & humid to boot. Seems like it came fast and furious.

Things are supposed to cool off next week again... maybe we'll have a little transition time before the really hot weather comes again. We hope at least.

His Eyes

As we were driving home from Detroit today, something really hit me as we headed down 75... I am critical... judgmental. Not earth shattering news, but I had one of those moments where I realized something about that critical spirit. I see someone or know something about them and make huge assumptions about them - usually negative ones.

Part of this epiphany hit me during a mix Cheryl had playing on her iPod. A song by none other than George Michael called "Freedom," was blasting through our car speakers and I realized I had very negative thoughts about this guy based on the fact that he was gay and that he had been busted doing some lewd things in a public restroom.

We also listened to a teaching by Rob Bell on our way up to Michigan about the tongue. One of the things he talked about is our need to find out the "dirt" of other people. Tabloid magazines and even news organizations make huge amounts of cash by filling us in on the goings on of people like Brad & Angelina, Britney, Paris, Lindsay Lohan and Rosie's bickering matches with the Donald and Elizabeth. Even in those situations we make judgments. Paris is a slut, Lindsay is a drunk, Rosie is a liberal, ghastly beast... but how does God see them?

This is where the rubber hits the road. I struggle with this all the time. The human side of me does not think this way. I see someone that looks different, sounds different or acts differently and I automatically make assumptions - - judgments. Usually these are not kind judgments either. I know a lot of times I think I am just making observations that are not racist or judgmental, but let's be honest, all of us have prejudices.

The sad thing for me is when I find myself looking down on people who don't know the Jesus I know. Whether they be Muslims, Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses, Hindus or any other religion, my tendency is to think they are idiots. To lessen them. To feel superior to them. To me, this is so far from God's heart for those people. He sent His Son to die for everyone... not just me.

The same can be said for homosexuals, pro-lifers, Democrats, Republicans, anti-war supporters, environmentalists, capitalists, communists or conservatives. God loves them all. Jesus wants their hearts... and I should want that for them as well. The Holy Spirit nudges me in that direction all the time, but I live in my flesh far too often.

There are two songs that I always hear in my head when I begin to ponder this subject... these are two groups from way back in the CCM days, so if you have no idea who they are, don't worry. Petra had a song called, "We Need Jesus," and 4Him did a song titled, "Through His Eyes." Both of those songs have a line that runs through my mind when I am sensitive and listening to what the Spirit has to say:

See each other as He sees us...
(Petra)

If we could see through His eyes
Then we could dare to love
The way God loves
(4Him)

So that is my prayer. Learn to see people the way my Father does. It's not easy, but it has to be the place where God longs for me to be... after all, it is the 2nd Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:39).

Pizzas, Panera & Taco Town

I never realized how much I missed Little Caesars Pizza until I couldn't have it anymore... $5 or $6 pizzas that actually taste good are hard to come by in Ohio. At least where I live.

So tonight we enjoyed the pizza we miss so much (thanks Mom & Dad) as we watched 60 Minutes (Dad's choice, but it was his birthday so I obliged him). While we were watching, we got to a really moving moment in the story of our troops in Iraq... we were all literally in tears, when suddenly, Bailey broke forth with his patented psycho guard bark. Everyone, especially Mom & Dad (because Cheryl and I are somewhat used to it), jumped about ten feet out of their chairs. He preceeded to do that at a few more key moments throughout the rest of the show... did I mention that I would like to kill that dog sometimes?

We spent time with Matthew & Sarah at Panera Bread this morning and my adorable niece, Emma, smiled at me like twenty times and I loved it (could've been gas, but I will believe it was her undying love for Uncle Scott). We also just got back from spending time with them at their house tonight and we laughed a lot... Taco Town had Matthew in tears.

By the way, as mentioned above, Dad celebrated a birthday today... Happy Birthday Dad! Love you and wish you God's best this year...

Ohio (and a BBQ with friends) here we come!

Visiting Hours

What an amazing day Cheryl and I had today!

Last night we hung out with the family and had a steak dinner, compliments of Mom and our Grill-Master, Matthew.

We woke up early this morning and met up with Rob & Nicole. We had such a great time with them! Everytime we see them I realize how much I miss both of them in our lives. They are probably some of the best friends we have ever had... when we are with them it is like nothing ever changed. I love being with them and can't wait to see them in Vegas really soon!

After we stopped off back and Mom & Dad's place we headed out to Jim & Phiona's... what an amazing time we had with these guys... we just seem to grow closer to them whenever we see them. I love having family like that. They are headed off to a China very soon and we will miss them so much. God is so good... somehow, we will get there!

This has been a great weekend... still more to come.

Drives Me Crazy...

Interesting thing happened on my way back to Detroit today... I remembered how much I hate driving around all these brain dead people.

Numerous events unfolded as we headed up I-75 that left me losing my cool on some unsuspecting guy as we turned down the street to get to my Mom & Dad's house. This guy had no idea that I had just endured about 20 or more motorists that were as bad, if not worse, than he was.

I am amazed by the agression and lunacy that people have while operating their vehicle. Cell phones strapped to ears while they go 85 mph, weaving in and out of traffic without a care in the world.

I have lost my edge since we moved to small town Ohio. I used to honk and make my way through the asphalt jungle with ease. Now, it seems foreign to me. Definitely less stressful... which I believe to be a good thing.

We made it okay and all was well when we finally got to see everyone, especially that cute little niece of mine. The return trip will at least get less stressful as we head into the farm country on those two lane roads that lead to home... it's where the heart is after all.

More Idiot Box Stuff

Sorry to talk TV two days in a row, but I failed to mention anything about the American Idol finale.

First off, I think the right person won. Jordin is an amazing young talent and will only get better. I honestly think Blake will be a huge star though. He just has something about him... very creative and unique.

Let's face it, coming in second or third doesn't hurt you on this show. Melinda, Phil Stacey and few others will have careers after this thing is over... unfortunately, Sanjaya might be one of them. Eh, I guess the guy deserves his fifteen minutes just like the next guy...

Oh, by the way, TiVo or DVR users, how many of you didn't get to see the winner crowned on AI last night? Apparently the show went about ten minutes long and we didn't even get to see the winner... Good job FOX!

Also, just in case you missed it (and according to the ratings a lot of people have) Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip is back on NBC on Thursday nights for who knows how long. NBC, please let me enjoy this show... give it another chance!

The Summer TV season is coming, get ready for tons of Reality TV and some stuff they thought no one would like. It's a year round business now... I noticed that According to Jim and King of Queens have resurfaced for the off peak season, but so did Top Chef!

LOST

Is it just me or is LOST one of the best drama's ever on TV? I know some people have grown tired of all the twists and unknowns on the show, but this year has revealed some amazing stuff. The season finale tonight was amazing.

If you haven't watched the finale yet, quit reading now... you've been warned.

The thing that really does it for me is the character development. Last week when Charlie realized he would have to die to save everyone, it killed me. When Hurley was rejected by his friends twice when he wanted to help but eventually saved them, I was overjoyed for him. Locke even got to escape death once again, I love that guy. Yes, it's just a TV show, but I really love it. The writing and, as I said before, character development are stellar.

The amazing twist we saw tonight was what I think is a look into the future. After everyone is rescued from the island. Jack obviously is having a breakdown of some sort in the future. We usually see these "flashbacks" to show us the past of the characters, but in this episode, when Jack calls a mystery guest to meet him at the airport, out of the shadows comes Kate, whom as far as we know, Jack never knew before the crash. Plus, Jack started talking about how he longs to be back on the island and takes plane trips with his "golden ticket" (which I assume most airlines would give you if you survived a crash on one of their planes... odd) and prays that the plane will crash again.

So let me say this, if you haven't watched LOST at all or you haven't followed it well, put the DVD's in your queue at Netflix and enjoy catching up until the show is on again in January 2008.

What A Ride...

Well, the season is over for the Wings, but it has been quite a ride...

Personally, I think the Wings let one get away and I think they were the better team overall, but Champions play through adversity and in the end - - they win.

This has been a great season to be a Detroit Fan... The Tigers came, oh so close. The Wings were supposed to be mediocre, but they made a statement this year. Now it all hangs on the Pistons...

We can only hope that the Lions win more than 3 games, but I think they are on the right track too.

I have always been a huge Wings fan and I always will be. Pride is the only thing I feel for these guys this year. They played above what a lot of people thought of them. This loss is a lot easier to take than previous years. They will be back, the future looks bright in Hockeytown.

The good news for a lot of my friends is... I have a lot more time on my hands now. Can't wait to see everyone again....

Thanks for a great season Detroit Red Wings...

Just What I Needed...

The past few days have been a such a great time with our friends here in Ohio. With some of the things that are going on right now, having friends and family that you love means more than you'll ever know.

We hung out with Derek & Casey and their boys on Saturday night and had a great time... Sunday we went to Sarah's graduation party and spent time with Sean & Rachel, Steve & Nicki and saw a bunch of other people there too. Then, today I hung out with Tony, then Cheryl and I had dinner with Dave & Kelly at our place.

It is so great living and going to church in the same town. It's so conducive to building community and deepening relationships.

Plus, we're coming back to Michigan this weekend and we'll get to see our family... it's been too long and we're really excited to see everyone again! We'll even get a chance to see two of the best friends we've ever had from Las Vegas!!

God has blessed us beyond our wildest dreams...

A Little Rain Must Fall...

I am one of those people who struggles with hiding the way I feel. When times are tough, you can pretty much see it. If I am annoyed, you'll know it. I hate being fake... that is a good thing and a bad thing. Sometimes I need to keep things to myself, but for the most part, I would rather let you know where I stand.

Saying all this leads me to where I am at this afternoon. I'm feeling let down. God is faithful and I know He loves me, but sometimes I am disappointed by Him. Some would tell me, "That's life," or tell me, "to get over it," because you and I both know there are people in far worse circumstances than myself. But let me ask you this, if I pretend that I am o.k. with something when I'm not, doesn't God know that? Of course He does...

Things don't always work out the way you expect them to. They don't always end up the way you hope for. But I can't stop hoping. I can't stop believing that God will save the day. He has a plan and I hope for that plan to be fulfilled even in the midst of my disappointment. I have to keep on hoping.

We sang a song this morning that touched me. That I want to share with you about God's love. I needed to hear it and this morning I believed it a lot more than I ever have before. As I have mentioned before, learning to accept and truly believe that He loves me has been tough, but today I moved a little closer to really understanding it...

God of glory You have made all things
Who am I that You would think of me
For You made the earth, You made the stars
Yet You know my name; You know my heart
You’re always there; You’re never far away

So amazing as You paint the sky
So amazing, makes me wonder why
You love me like You do
You love me like You do
That You love me like You do
So amazing, so amazing

I see the birds ride on the winds, they fly so high
Mountain peaks so tall they seem to touch the sky
Creation calls Your name above
Yet in Your mercy and Your love
You came to give Your life that I might live

Hold on to hope and feel loved...

What a Bunch of Horse...

I was checking out a little playoff hockey today on NBC. They usually have Saturday & Sunday games, while VS has the weekdays.

So today was game 5 between the Ottawa Senators and the Buffalo Sabres. Pretty huge game is Buffalo... they lose this one and they are playing golf for the rest of the summer.

Turned out to be a great game - - what I saw of it anyway. You see that horse to the right? Well, NBC, who truly loves the NHL, decided to leave the Stanley Cup Playoff game when it headed to sudden death overtime to catch a race that lasted all of about 3 minutes. But they needed a lot more than that to talk about all the story lines...

So now hockey fans (if there really are any out there), not only is the NHL behind the NFL, MLB, NBA & NASCAR, but Major League Soccer (MLS) and now Horse Racing are giving it a run for the money.

For all the fans in Buffalo who were watching at home... sorry you missed it, but your team lost in overtime. Hopefully there are some good highlights on Sports Center - - oh, wait a minute, they don't like hockey either. Oh well, that one horse made it around the track real fast at least.

Mow-er Time with Cheryl...

I've talked about this on the ol' Ramblin Scotzman before, but I hate cutting the grass. Partly because I hate sweating and smelling like exhaust and/or gas. The other reason is when you are a guy, around the age of 13 or 14, you learn to cut the grass. It seems like a fun thing at first, but then it becomes a job...

Either way, I would like to say that this season has been very different than usual. Cheryl has taken an interest in working with me on the yard and it has been awesome.

I love that she is willing to join me in a task that she knows I despise. The truth is, now I don't hate it so much because I get to do it with her. A lot of people would never want to work with their spouse, we have done it before and it was tough at times, but with age and experience we have learned to truly work together and enjoy it.

Cheryl, thanks for being my best friend and partner in life... not just in the fun stuff, but the less desirable stuff - - like cutting the grass.

Cheers

My TiVo has been picking up Cheers reruns lately.

I remember sitting in the living room with the family watching Cheers and hearing Dad laugh hysterically. His favorite part was the opening joke. We all laughed and had a great time on Thursday nights.

I loved Woody. He always killed me. And who could ever forget everyone yelling, "Norm," when he walked into the bar. Great cast... was glad when Dianne left though.

Cheryl and I actually went to the real Cheers while we were in Boston. Talk about different. Not at all like the inside on the TV show. Still fun to see.

Thanks TiVo.

Accord-ingly.

Forgive me father's for I have sinned...

Growing up in a Ford family and marrying a girl from a Ford family, made me feel like a sinner today.

After our Wal Mart fiasco the Sunday, we ended up getting everything squared away and were given the number to our local Enterprise Rental Car. We were supplied with a vehicle while our Ford Taurus was in the shop. When I called to confirm pickup this morning, I asked what type of vehicle we would end up with... the gentleman on the phone told me there was an 80% chance we would end up with a Honda Accord.

Cheryl and I headed out this morning to pick up her rental so she could head off to work. I Google Mapped the Enterprise and we set out. I knew right where I thought it would be, but I never recalled seeing an Enterprise in that area before. As we drove down the street to where it was supposed to be, all I saw was a Honda dealership.

We ended up in the middle of enemy territory (as if living in Buckeye country was not enough). Growing up in Motown, we were taught to despise "foreign" cars. They were what was wrong with America and here we were in the belly of the beast about to drive away in one of it's evil machines.

Cheryl went in and signed the paperwork while I waited in my "American" vehicle. Safe. Secure. Proud... and slightly envious of all the new cars around me.

As Cheryl came out to her shiny red Accord, I rolled down my window and warned her not to fall for this little Honda... it would tear our families to pieces (not really, but it sounds pretty dramatic, right?).

I'll admit, when Cheryl got home from work today, I rushed out to see this little import. I took it for a spin and kicked the tires. I can tell you this, it ain't made for the rotund individual to fit comfortably into. Nice, but not the most amazing thing I have ever been in. I could feel myself repeating my Dad's mantra, "Probably not as nice as a Fusion... Wait until you see that new Edge, that thing is amazing." Still loyal, just like Dad. Can't help it.

Our little adventure with Honda will be over on Friday... until then, we'll just have grin and bear it.

Why Did I Do It?

Just a quick story about your favorite Super Store, Wal Mart.

Since we have moved to a smaller town in Ohio, my worst fears have become a reality. When you need something here, Wal Mart is usually the place to get it. You may or may not know this, but I think Wal Mart is ruining America one small town at a time.

We've been getting our cars serviced at Wal Mart since last Summer. The part of me that loves a great deal could not pass up the amazingly low cost of an oil change. It's like $17 or $18... I mean, how can you pass that up? What could happen? It's just an oil change right?

This past Sunday we dropped off Cheryl's car and came back to pick it up. I went to get some gas while Cheryl settled up. My cell phone rings and Cheryl says, "We have a problem." Seems that the last time the ol' Taurus was in for an oil change someone cross threaded the oil plug, which holds the oil in the oil pan. Pretty important. Well the Service Manager tells Cheryl she needs to take it to the dealership to get that fixed. Hold on a second buddy... someone in your shop put it in wrong. Fix it.

After a twenty minute conversation in a packed waiting area, finally the Assistant Manager of the entire Wal Mart comes to solve the problem. I was amazed at how hard they tried to push this thing off on us. I kept asking him if he thought I was under the car playing with the oil plug in my spare time. Someone at this Wal Mart goofed up, now fix it.

We ended up taking it to our local Ford dealership and I was not surprised to learn this was one of many "mistakes" they've had to fix from Wal Mart. $375 later, Wal Mart is buying us a new oil pan.

Lesson learned. No more Wal Mart.

Wish I had seen this site before I gave Wal Mart a chance to screw up.

Pearls of Wisdom

Today a friend of mine, Tony, and I were talking about the love of God.

I have always struggled with God's love for me. You see, I have always felt unworthy of it. While me being unworthy of His love might be true, He loves me in spite of that. I can say that and understand it to be true, but my mind understanding it to be true and my heart believing it to be true are two totally different things.

As we were talking, Tony could see that I was truly struggling with this. I know that God impressed this on Tony's heart to share with me and it suddenly brought me closer to truly believing with my heart more than ever before.

Tony brought up the parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl. In essence, both parables talk about someone finding something of great value. Then in turn both of these people sell everything they own and purchase this new found treasure. He asked me what those parables meant to me. Honestly, it caught me off guard. I'd never spent a lot of time thinking about it. So I told him that I thought it was about my relationship to God and that I needed to see the worth in it and be willing to give up everything for it.

Tony had a different take. In fact he gave examples of how Christians in China who have face persecution have a totally different understanding of these parables. He said that I am the pearl. I am the hidden treasure. That God loved me so much that He sent His Son to "purchase" me. Jesus loved me so much, the hidden treasure that He found in the field, that He gave up everything to get me.

Me. He finds me worthy.

I can hardly fathom it. It stirs something inside of me that I cannot describe...

I am learning. Trying to accept this amazing love that He has for me. It is so hard to understand, maybe that is the point. My mind may never comprehend this love.

My hope, my prayer, is that I will stop rejecting His love. Thankfully He's not finished with me yet and He is very patient.

For Mom.

Seems like one of the first times I've not been able to see Mom on Mother's Day.

Being away from family has been tough at times, but it has been a good thing as well. It has forced both Cheryl and I to grow in ways I had no idea we had to. It has caused us to lean on and trust the Father more than ever before. It has caused us to let others help us out, when usually we would have called Mom and Dad.

Personally, I am learning more about myself in this process than I ever have before. All the times I have been compared to my Mom while we laughed used to make me think I was not enough of a "man," but now I see that it means I have a big heart, that I am loyal, that I am forgiving, that I'm a dreamer, that I love people, that I love my spouse, that love making people happy and encouraging them and more than anything that I love my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Mom, these are the things that I have gained from being your son. These are the things that you have built into me. Thank you for teaching me through the way you live to love, care and dream.

Love you Mom.

We'll see you soon.

First Watch

Cheryl and I finally did it... we went to Firstwatch in Dublin for breakfast.

Why has it taken so long you say? Well, it's a very well known fact that I detest, nay, loathe lines and/or waiting. Thanks Dad...

Every time we have driven past said restaurant, there are gazillions of people waiting for just a taste of whatever they are selling in there. Maybe they are secretly owned by McDonald's and have also injected their food with whatever drug makes people eat at the Golden Arches all the time. Either way, it's always busy. It's open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and apparently that's just not long enough.

Bailey woke us up around 6:30 this morning (on a Saturday that is just wrong) and I thought, what better time than now to head over to the beloved First Watch. We ended up pulling into Dublin right around 8 a.m. and as I headed into the shopping center where First Watch is, I noticed something rather absurd... gazillions of cars! All of which were parked in front of the breakfast joint with a little taste of heaven in it... and, wait for it... there was a line of people waiting to get in! People, we are talking about 8 a.m. on a Saturday morning... what gives?

This had better be the best breakfast I have ever eaten... was it? It was pretty good. Wait in line good? Eh, I could take it or leave it. Not too mention, Dublin is kind of like the O.C. compared to Marysville... for my friends and family in Detroit, it's kind of like the Northville/Novi/Plymouth crowd out there. A little snobby and too beautiful for their own good. So if you were planning on putting a baseball cap on and catching a shower after breakfast, you may want to have your hair nicely coifed and make up on before you get there.

So, if you ever come to visit or want us to join you at First Watch for a little breakfast, you go first and get us a table. We'll be there soon.

Cell Phone Play by Play

So the NHL brain trust has done it again.

Depending on who your cable carrier in my old home town of Detroit happens to be, you either got to watch the Wings take on the Ducks in the Western Conference Finals or had to call me for updates or play by play of the game.

My Dad and Brother had to get updates and play by play via our Verizon phones!

Another amazing move by Gary Bettman.

I wonder how that conversation went...

Gary Bettman: Okay guys. I have a great idea. Since we screwed up our deal with ESPN and ABC and are fresh off a lockout, I have a brand new plan. We could be on the Outdoor Life Network!
Lackey #1: Outdoor Life Network?
Lackey #2: Yeah, great idea Boss!
Bettman: Yes! They will change the name next year to Versus! They have all sorts of cool programming that our audience will love too. Bull riding and rodeos, fishing and hunting and kickboxing! What a combination!
Lackey #1: I don't get.
Bettman: No most cable and satellite providers don't even carry it yet, but that will change. We're the number 4 sport in the US, people will demand it.
Lackey #2: Actually sir, NASCAR is ahead of us now...
Lackey # 1: ... and Soccer is actually gaining ground.
Bettman: No matter, the NHL and Versus will catapult us to number one in no time.

Add to that nonsense that after the first two rounds of the playoffs your local station loses it's rights to broadcast their home team. In Detroit that means no Mickey Redmond!

Why do I continue to watch? I guess I'm a Red Wing fan for life... no matter how bad that moron Betmann screws things up.

Chad Vader

I'm not a huge Star Wars geek, but when I saw this, I laughed.



Hope you enjoyed it... you can check out the entire first season (finale coming this month) on YouTube or at Blame Society Productions.

American Idol Observation...

Is it just me or does American Idol guest artist this week, Barry Gibb, look an awful lot like:














The Geico Caveman
















I am so mean... sorry Mr. Gibb, I couldn't resist.

Why Not Just Get a Mac?

My buddy over at Geekbert.net posted a link that just explains how lame Windows and the Gates crew really are... Check it out here.

Isn't it time you looked into Mac? Really, what's it gonna' take to convince you? iPod? iPhone? iTunes? Intel Macs?

I'm just sayin'...

Cheryl's Request... Blog!

The Lovely and Talented Cheryl just told me I don't Blog enough... she said enough very funny too.

So I figured I would do a little Blogging:

Spring is in the air... in fact it was dang hot today in Ohio.

With that beautiful Spring air comes thunderstorms... Bailey's favorite... his favorite thing to be scared of and whine and cry about (usually when we are sleeping).

Spring also means NHL Playoffs... the Wings played horrible last night. Speaking of the Wings, this guy came by the house the other day selling lawn treatments. I opened the door and he made his pitch. His final sell was, "If you sign up today, I'll throw in a free squid." I looked puzzled for a moment and then he pointed at my Wings flag blowing in the wind... that made me laugh... had he said Octopus, he would have really impressed me.

NHL Playoffs also mean late night starts in the West (the conference the Wings are in)... 10 pm starts for those whacky Left Coasters... getting sleepy thinking about it. Bettman, do us all a favor and move the Wings to the East already!

Sports, sports, sports, sports!

The NFL Draft was held Saturday and Sunday... it's kind of like the Super Bowl if you are a Lions Fan. Matt Millen didn't disappoint all the Lion faithful... picking up the 4th wide receiver in 5 years within the # 2 pick. From all the publicity, the kid - Calvin Johnson - is a stud, let's hope so.

... I couldn't end our brief foray into football without talking a little Buckeye football (Boo!). The Dolphins surprised everyone in the draft when they picked Ted Ginn Jr. with the 9th overall... hilarious. The crowd on hand in Miami almost lynched the GM... Plus, the Heisman Trophy winning QB, Troy Smith, wasn't picked until the 5th round...

Michigan had seven players chosen overall and a record 4 defensive players in the top 50 picks. Go Blue!!

I've got some interesting things on the horizon which I hope to talk about soon...

Puttin' on the Foil Coach!

It's that time of year again my friends...

The NHL Playoffs have begun. Three good games tonight and the boys from Hockeytown begin their Quest for the Cup Thursday night at the Joe.

This will be one of the first playoffs of my hockey life that will not include "The Captain," Steve Yzerman. It will be strange not seeing him out there, but it's time for the youngsters to step up and take a run at the toughest championship in all of sports: Lord Stanley's Cup.

If you've never experienced playoff hockey, this may be a good time to check it out. Like so many other professional sports, the "Salary Cap," has evened the playing field a bit. Parity is what they like to call it.

Let me just say this, if the Wings decide to make a deep run this year, I may not see you until sometime in June. Versus has hockey every night and I also have NHL Center Ice from DirecTV, so my TiVo will be working overtime.

Hopefully the chant, "LET'S GO RED WINGS!" will be heard all the way down here in hockey starved Ohio.

I'm Bringin' Funky Back... Yeah!

So the funk from my last post has not subsided. Things seem to be getting worse, honestly. (If the picture makes no sense to you... sorry).

In my own little, insignificant world, I feel like Job. Lame, huh?

We are in the process of losing our house in Michigan... April 4th if you're keeping score at home. I just got "laid off" from my job. My back has been injured somehow and I'm having trouble sleeping and some money we thought we were going to have has been "postponed." I could go on and on (and I will a little further down).

Are my circumstances different than thousands, possibly millions of other people right now? No. But it sucks nonetheless. Inside my little bubble, things just aren't going very well.

There are so many worse things to go through in life than what I am experiencing right now, so don't be offended or displeased with me for grumbling/complaining/whining... I don't mean to say that my troubles are that bad, just understand that right now, in the place that I am, I am down. A close friend of mine just went through something more painful than I have ever experienced thus far in my life, so I know that my problems are small in comparison.

Another friend of mine is on some kind of pilgrimage to distance himself from everyone he knows. It's very sad and a little strange to me, but I know that I do it myself, I pull away, I retreat from the things that cause me pain, but eventually you have to deal with them, right? Just like the house thing, I can try to ignore it all I like, but eventually the lawyers are coming and they are taking that house. It's not that we even really want the house, we tried to get rid of it, but no one wants it. The lawyers don't even want it, they want the money.

The job I started in January was a record - - actually it comes in 2nd place... I worked at a car dealership as a porter for half a day. This last job ended up being a little shy of 3 months. The hardest part for me is that the person who gave me this job was really trying to help me out - get me back on the horse, so to speak, and she wasn't making enough to support paying both of us and I had less time on the job. I went to pick up my check today and there was no evidence that I existed in that place. My email was turned off, my name taken off the mailbox, it kind of felt like I had been erased. I am still technically employed on an "as needed" basis, but it feels like there won't be much "need" for me anymore. Thankfully we talked through some things.

Then there is the whole house thing. There are people who are always there for you when times are tough... I can't mention you by name or the people that seem to be absent during these times will be offended, but you know who you are and we love you. We are so blessed by God to have you in our lives.

It really amazes me though, that some people just seem to stay away when you need them the most. Maybe they just don't know what to do. Maybe they just don't care to help. Whatever the case may be, it just reinforces things for me. I hate that too. I want to think the best, but it's hard.

I know in the end all this has been is a gripe session, but it was therapeutic. If you want to call me a whiner, feel free. Just sharing my heart.

In the end, I know that God has something going here. I have to believe that.

I'll leave you with this... one of my favorite songs says:

Blessed be Your name when the sun's shining down on me
When the world's "all as it should be"
Blessed be Your name
And blessed be Your name on the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

-Written by Matt & Beth Redman

See to Believe?

I have been in a funk...

Many of the things that were on track in my life seem to have fallen apart... most of it by my own doing, but there seems to be no flow. No rhyme, no reason.

Spiritually speaking, I am questioning things. I "know" a lot of things to be true about God, but lately I am realizing that I have a tough time truly "believing" those things. All I hope and pray for is that "Mustard Seed Faith," that Jesus talks about.

I desire so much more... I crave the life that Jesus promised - Life to the Fullest. How am I missing it? Is it right here in front of me and I'm missing it? Is this all there is? There has to be more.

My faith needs to be stretched and God is allowing a lot of stretching right now... not fun, but there has to be a point to all of this. God has promised us so many things, I will continue to believe that what He said is true... at least I want to do that anyway.

How did this happen?

I have a confession to make... I have been watching American Idol.

Sad isn't it? It's not like it's some amazing thing... Millions, possibly even Billions of people watch it all the time. The thing is, I never used to... thought it was lame.

Sure, it's a lot of fun and strangely sad to see people make fools of themselves on National Television (especially in HD). The thing that is amazing to me is the number of people who seem to think they can sing. How does this happen? Maybe they just have really loving and supportive friends and family who want to encourage them no matter how bad they are... that is a blessing and a curse apparently. Sure, I wish there were more people that told me to reach for the stars when I was a kid, but thank God they didn't encourage me to do something I clearly had no talent in.

We're past all the horrible singing now (not if you ask Randy & Simon) and have moved into the top 12 singers that "America" has chosen to move on (Why do we let "America" decide these things? Has anyone noticed that "America" gets it wrong a lot? Two words: Sanjaya Malakar). So now they start singing certain styles and get critiqued by Randy, Paula & Simon... but we decide who moves on by calling an 800 number a million times. At any rate, it is actually kind of fun, because I enjoy pausing the TiVo while Cheryl and I give our own critiques (I usually end up pretty close to Simon without being as mean... Cheryl is nicer but we are usually in agreement).

So far I have some favorites. Blake Lewis is probably my number one pick, but just a little behind that is Chris Sligh. My buddy, Bill, knows Chris Sligh and is really pulling for him, but I am not really sure he is the best... maybe he will change my mind in the coming weeks. In reality, the best "singer" on the show is probably Melinda Doolittle. Cheryl loves her. Cheryl lets out this strange "Wooooooh!" everytime she sings and there is an occasional, "You go GIRL!" Very disturbing... funny and adorable, but disturbing.

So there it is, my dark secret... American Idol watcher. Pray for me, maybe it's just something that I need to get out of my system. Speaking of, did I mention that I have been watching a little NASCAR? Seriously, PRAY!

Uncle Scotty...

Well, at 12:16 a.m. today I became Uncle Scotty!

My nephews, Christopher, Kaylin & Desmond, and my neice Nicole were not around for me to hug and kiss and spoil to death when they were babies, but I love them just the same. So this new addition to our family, Emma Joan, is special in a different way.

I am so happy for my brother, Matthew, and his wonderful wife, Sarah. They are amazing people and God has blessed them (me too!) with a healthy baby girl! I know they will love her so much... not to mention the love from Grandmas, Grandpas, Aunts and Uncles.

Matthew, I am full of joy for you on this day and proud to be your one and only brother and BRAND NEW UNCLE!

God bless you and your family!

As I Was Saying...

It's only been a few months... so I thought I would bring you up to date on what is happening in the land of the Ramblin' Scotzman.

First off, I am working at a real estate office here in town and it's been okay. Scotty was not made to be trapped behind the four walls of the cubicle wasteland. Luckily I work with some of the funniest people in the world. They make worktime lots of fun.

Even though we are only 3 hours southwest of Detroit, we were told that the Winters here weren't as bad... someone lied. It has been cold and we got a pretty good snowfall once this year. We are supposed to get some more tonight. All that being said, these people have no idea what a Michigan Winter is like. The schools here cancel so often it's ridiculous... obviously, I am slightly jealous because I wish we had as many snow days when I was a kid. When we had our big snowfall - all 8 inches of it - they literally told us if they caught you on the road, you would be arrested. Only in Ohio.

We are really settling in and enjoying it here though. The people are great and living in a smaller town is really nice too. There are times I hate having to drive 20 or 30 minutes for a night out, but our little town is growing. Best Buy will be open in April and there is even a rumor that we'll have a few chain restaurants going up in the not too distant future. Trust me, man cannot live on Applebee's and Bob Evans alone. Cheryl told you what happened when we got a KFC/Long John Silver's... unbelievable. But to the people here it's all brand new.

I also had my first sump pump adventure on my birthday weekend. I had no idea what to expect since I have never had one of those before, but this thing was going off every 30 seconds at one point and I thought for sure it was going to blow up. I was freaked out about it, but in the end a guy from my church came over and told me to stop worrying... this is what they do.

Like I said earlier, I got a little older too... I am hoping to start using one of my birthday gifts soon, as I am hoping to start Podcasting. No promises, but I will let you know when I take the plunge. Maybe I will keep up with that a little better than the Blogging.

Well, I know this Blog has not been too inspirational or funny, but you have to get back on the horse somehow.

The Captain...

I know I've talked about Steve Yzerman in the past on this Blog, but Tuesday night, January 2, 2007, was a very special night in Hockeytown (Detroit, MI). On this evening, the #19 was raised to the rafters, never to be worn again by a Detroit Red Wing.

Yzerman's number was hoisted alongside those of legends like Gordie Howe (#9), Ted Lindsay (#7), Sid Abel (#12), Alex Delvecchio (#10) and Terry Sawchuk (#1). It was an amazing night. Gordie, Ted and Alex were on hand for the ceremony as were many Wings from the past and present.

Hockey has meant so much to me over the years because some of my best memories as a kid were when Dad took me to a hockey game or when we sat and watched the game together.

My dad took me to my first game when I was only 4 years old at the old Olympia. I still remember the smell of the ice, the stale spilled beers and that "old" smell, you know like an antique store or your grandma's house. I got a souvenir minature hockey stick, which one day had the autograph of Ted Lindsay taped to it. Dad told me to hold his hand as we walked through the crowded, noisy arena, and just like any son would, I held on as tight as I could. The sound in that place was so deafening that I plugged my ears so it wouldn't hurt.

Dad took us to games on and off throughout all our years growing up and we always had a great time. We made moo-ing sounds as we walked as a herd through the tunnels on the way to Joe Louis Arena. We even caught a puck one time and I had beer spilled all over me when the Wings scored one night. Matthew and I went to one of the Wings longest playoff games ever agains the Mighty Ducks (now just the Ducks), a triple overtime thriller that started their march to the 1st Stanley Cup in 42 years.

My brother, Matthew, and I used to play hockey in the basement all the time. He was the "full-time" goalie. I was all five guys on the team and did the play-by-play and color commentary. Somehow whenever I got ready to take the game winning shot on Matthew I yelled out, "Steve Yzerman carries in across the blue line... he shoots... HE SCORES!!!" If I didn't score Stevie got another chance at some point. When I was Matthew's best man at his wedding he gave me his very own Yzerman O-P-chee Rookie Card to add to my collection. I begged him for years for that thing... it meant the world to me; it still does.

The Red Wings were really horrible back in the 70's and early 80's, they were known as the "Dead Wings," so when the Illitch's (of Little Caesars fame) bought the team they needed someone to build around. Steve Yzerman was that guy. He started playing in 1983 (I was 11 years old) and stayed with the team his entire career (I was 34 when he retired); quite unheard of in most of professional sports. 23 Years as a Red Wing and 20 as the Captain of the team. No one else has ever been captain as long.

He had many devistating injuries throughout his career that few have ever come back from, but some how his perserverance and determination kept him going. He won 3 Stanley Cups while in Detroit and each one was a joy to watch.

Cheryl and I sat and watched as Steve Yzerman was honored for his contributions not only on the ice, but for all the things he did and still does behind the scenes for the sick and less fortunate. Everyone talked about his quiet leadership. The way he walked the walk without talking too much talk. When he said something, it really mattered.

Stevie said, as his chin began to shake and tears welled up in his eyes, that when we saw that jersey hanging from the rafters we should, "pat ourselves on the back," because we were a part of who he had become and what he had accomplished. He really meant it. At one point he even said that he didn't think he really did anything special or different than any other of his teammates and the entire crowd shouted, "NO," with a few boos thrown in... they wanted him to know that what he did was special.

Cheryl sat here with me and soaked it all in... I loved that. She is the best earthly thing that has ever happened to me, so sharing a moment like this that brought back so many memories was that much sweeter with her beside me.

If you never had a chance to watch Stevie play, stop by and ask me to pop in my Red Wings DVD's and we'll see a couple of his greatest moments. Even if you aren't interested, indulge me.

Thanks a lot Steve.

Football Fizzle...

While the Lions were celebrating their 3 - 13 record with a win over the Dallas Cowboys, the University of Michigan Wolverines were preparing to show the nation that they should have been playing Ohio State for the National Championship by dismantling the #5 USC Trojans at the Rose Bowl.

Wa-wah!

What a disaster! Not only did the Wolverines lose convincingly to the Trojans (again), but the Lions lost the #1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft!

That line from Jerry Maguire kept popping into my head... "I lost the number one draft pick the night before the draft!"

Thank goodness that football season is officially over as far as my heart is concerned... I'll still be watching Florida take a beating from the Buckeyes in the National Championship game and following the NFL Playoffs, but at least I don't really care about any of those teams.

I still have the Red Wings...

Merry Christmas

Puffy Puppy

Usually my puppy, Bailey, looks like this:


When I woke up this morning, he looked more like this:


Apparently Bailey boy was bitten by a bug of some sort (most likely a spider) and his faced swelled up so that he looked like a Shar Pei Dog (pictured above). So the first thing I see as a I put my glasses on this morning is this puffy-faced puppy staring at me through little puppy eyes that were almost swollen shut!

I freaked out for a second... seeing that when you first wake up and haven't had a chance to adjust is quite startling. So off to our first Vet visit in Ohio. Two shots later (and $72 poorer), the Vet told us to use Benadryl. Like the kind you can buy at CVS or Rite Aid. She actually gave us something similar to take home and use, but said Benadryl would have been fine.

So Bailey is looking a bit more normal now. The only thing he is up to at this point is sleeping like it's his job.

Sweet Dreams Bailey-Boy.

Punk Appeal

I'm sure not too many people know this about me, but deep down inside I have always wanted to be a pierced, tattooed punk rocker. I have always thought of myself as a bit of a "freak," while in reality I am pretty straight laced. It all boils down to the fact that I have a little rebel inside me... that part of me that always wants to be different and go against the flow of normalcy.

When it comes to living out my faith on a daily basis, I want to push the limit and get as close to the edge as possible. In doing so, I believe I'm consistently chasing after God. I never want to be complacent or go with the status quo just because everyone is doing it.

I happened to watch a new show on the Sundance Channel called "One Punk Under God," that follows Jay Bakker (above), son of Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. Jay started a church in 1994 that now has three locations in New York, Charlotte and Atlanta, called Revolution Church. At one point in the first show, Jay places a sticker on parking meter that says, "As Christians, we're sorry for being self-righteous, judmental bastards." I know, pushing the edge, but it's true isn't it? While I'm not sure I agree with all of Jay's views, I appreciate the way in which he lives out his faith. He is real and raw with who he is and where he's at in his walk. I can identify with that.

Jesus had such an amazing way about him when dealing with people. He was so hard on the religious people of the day (Pharisees), but loved and accepted the "sinners" where they were at while calling them to a better more fulfilling life. Living like that is my dream. Learning to love the unlovable. Seeing all people the way Jesus sees them; loved.

Maybe there needs to be more followers of Jesus like, Jay Bakker, Bono, Rob Bell, Tony Campolo, Brian McLaren and Jim Wallis and countless others... that live close to and sometimes over the edge. Honestly, it's all about looking at things differently... fresh perspectives on faith.

So who knows, maybe one day soon you'll see me walking up to you with a mohawk, peirced lip and tattoos all over the place... probably not, but we can always dream, can't we? Most important, I hope you begin to see me loving and accepting those who need it most so they can see Jesus right here, right now.

iPod Envy

I was talking with a friend the other day on the phone and he asked me to hold on while he signed for a package he received from Sony. He was so excited about the arrival of this package and he couldn't wait to tell me about it.

You see my friend is on a crusade against Apple. He tried to get Apple to sponsor something for his business and they declined, so now he is out to get them.

When he was rebuffed by the snotty people at Apple, he took it upon himself to begin to take down the giant known as iPod. He quickly got in touch with Sony and asked them to join him to dethrone the almighty iPod. They agreed to help.

As our conversation continued, I reminded him that Apple didn't really need to give away iPods to stir up interest because they had a 90% stranglehold on the market. He began to talk about how elitest Apple was with their iMac ads. How they think they are so cool and above PC's (and Sony Walkmans or Zunes). How dare they?

I tried to talk him down off the ledge of inferior technology, but to no avail. I'm afraid this man has been lost due to the injustice of the one and only iPod.

Michigan gets JOBBED!

Just in case you didn't notice, the University of Michigan got hosed in the BCS ratings on Sunday. There is an excellent article detailing the absurd BCS snub of a rematch between the Buckeyes and Michigan here.

We're off to the Rose Bowl to play the #5 rated USC. Notre Dame, ranked #11 are off to play the #4 ranked LSU... Ummm, can someone tell me why we are playing #5 instead of #4? Oh yeah, MONEY$$$!!

Well, until the NCAA works out some kind of playoffs, this money making BCS thing will continue to ruin college football.

P.S. I'm still not rooting for the Buckeyes.

Deal or No Deal?

I had a conversation this week that really annoyed me...

When it comes with dealing with our past hurts and pains why do so many Christians tell us to "get over it" or "move on"? While I understand that we can't just dwell in the past or let ourselves spiral down into the depths of depression because people mistreated us or called us names, can't we learn from our past? Can't we begin to see why some of our behaviors or attitudes are affected by our past?

Looking back to your past doesn't always mean that you have to look at the negative either. Jesus asked us to remember Him when we take communion. Hebrews 11 looks back at the past to teach us about faith. God reminded the Children of Israel about their past on a regular basis.

Our past molds us into who we are. The good and the bad.

Some might say that the moment we step into Faith in Christ that "the old has become new" that "the old man" is gone, very true, but a relationship with Christ - at least to me - is not like "the Matrix" where we take the little blue pill and wake up nice and safe, nor is it like taking a red pill and waking up to see how things really are. While I think both of those scenarios may resonate, neither is black or white.

Why are we so afraid of the grey?

When someone tells me that "this is the only way" or think they have it all figured out, I want to tell them they're crazy. I know I shouldn't say things like that, but I don't have time for people who think they know it all, because as much knowledge and we think we have, we haven't even begun to understand God.

God does not fit into our box. He is so much bigger and better than we want Him to be. Once we think we have it all figured out, what is the point then? Where do we go from there? Do we get to walk around with a smile on our faces telling everyone the "truth"? When you get there, you missed the boat and you're right back at the beginning again... ever heard of the Pharisees?

I'm not trying to say that believing in something or having a solid knowledge about something is wrong, but why do we always have to deal in our own form of absolutes. "What works for me must be right for you." Why would a God so creative and unique make all of us fit into the same mold? Aren't there millions of different flowers in the world? Isn't every snowflake that falls from the sky different than the others?

So tell me why we try to make the Creator and Artist of this world fit into our little formula. God can do anything He wants. He can speak to us through all sorts of things... like Balaam's talking donkey, or an angel on a stone in front of a tomb, or a burning bush. The point being, just when we think we have God all figured out, He can flip the script on us.

Don't you think that maybe, just maybe, God likes keeping us on our toes? If we know exactly how, when and where God works, wouldn't that make the relationship with Him a bit stale and boring? With God everyday can be fresh and exciting. But we like things all figured out and comfortable... black and white.

When it comes to our past and dealing with the good and the bad, there has to be a happy medium somewhere. Completely ignoring it just leads to future mistakes and pain. Dwelling on it leads to anxiety and an unfulfilled life. Jesus came to help us experience life to the fullest (John 10:10b).

Take some time to reflect on where you've been through God's eyes, both the good and the bad. Then ask Him to lead you into the future life He promises, living life to its fullest.

Update from Marysville... (cough, sniff)

O.K. this is kind of ridiculous... it's just a cold, but come on!

Theraflu is doing it's job and relieving my cold, but somehow this streak of sickness in Ohio has to end. My Scottish blood has to stop being so cheap and start saving up to have our furnace and ducts cleaned... darn cat! That and I need to find a doctor... I hate going to the doctor.

Other than my health, things are going quite well. As I mentioned Mom & Dad came and visited and we had a great time with them. We're starting to get into a normal groove now and Marysville is feeling more and more like home.

We have so many great friends and we are making more and more. We are going to Florida with some new friends who have been kind enough to invite us for a trip to their condo. God keeps blessing us in so many areas, it's amazing.

We are getting a chance to get more involved at church too. Cheryl has a women's retreat coming up and I have been meeting with others on Wednesday mornings for prayer. Let me just tell you, God definitely knew we needed to experience a community of believers like we have here in Marysville.

Well, time to hit the sack... the Tigers need to win 3 straight, but what an amazing season either way.

Speaking of... November 18th is going to be crazy down here. There is a real possibility that Michigan and Ohio State will be 11 - 0 in addition to the number 1 & 2 teams in the nation for the game here in Columbus. Stay tuned.

Oh My Gosh! It's Almost Christmas!!

Every year around this time (a little earlier every time I'm convinced) Cheryl's family sends out emails regarding Thanksgiving and Christmas. It really freaks me out. It's still October, we haven't even had Halloween yet!

The non-planner in me just really thinks, "Hey, we have two months before Christmas, what's the hurry?" But I'm glad that somebody thinks about this stuff or I would be sitting at home a few days before and think, "Holy crap! How are we gonna' pull this off?"

So now that the Holidays are right around the corner, it's hitting me that this is the first time in my life that I will be visiting Detroit for Christmas. Not a huge deal, but we've had quite a year since the Holidays last year. Cheryl wrote a nice little Blog about what has happened over this past year. But everything feels different.

For the first time in my entire life, my Mom and Dad came to stay with us. That was so cool. They ate and slept and showered in our house. They came to church with us and hung out watching our TV and I got to control it! I even got to tell my Dad that if he didn't obey the rules of the house I would kick him out... of course my rules are very easy to follow, but how fun was that?!?

Jim, Phiona and her mother were here the weekend before that as well... we can't wait for the kids to come and visit next time.

It was really nice having family visit with us in our little town.

We miss everyone and would love to see all of you soon. The drive is not too far and Ohio ain't so bad after all. It may get ugly down here when Michigan beats OSU on November 18th, but it'll be a lot of fun that's for sure.

Here I Go Again...

Here I go again... writing a whiney Blog about how long it's been since I've written.

The truth is, I've been in the dry, lonely desert lately. Nothing inspirational happening. I know it has everything to do with me and nothing to do with God. That is the thing that is killing me.

I keep thinking about how Paul said, "What I don't understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise." Why do I keep falling for the same crap? I've tasted and seen that the Lord is good, yet I continually fall back into old habits. I neglect the very thing that brings me such peace and joy. All for my own "foolish desires."

Not trying to beat myself up here (believe it or not I have a tendency to do that), just sharing the struggle. Throwing it out there for no other reason than to be vulnerable and honest about my current situation. So when you think of it, send up a few prayers for me or tell me you know where I'm at so we can travel together through the desert.

God Bless.