In case you haven't heard, one scientific research project, that has been in the works for roughly 20 years, and has a price tag of Ten Billion Dollars was put to use for the first time today. While I would seriously question any scientific research project that uses this much money (and who knows how many more are currently being undertaken) this one spent this outlandish amount of money to answer a question that we already know the answer to: How was the world created? My 5 year old daughter could give them the answer, and, while she has no concept of money, I'm certain she would accept the 10 billion dollars for her trouble. Since God created Adam in the Garden of Eden, man has had the answer to this question. How we can build multi-billion dollar machines that send microscopic particles speeding around a tunnel at just under the speed of light and still not be able to comprehend that God created the world is beyond me.
Putting aside the religious argument, I still can't comprehend spending that much money on a science experiment when all around us people go without food or shelter or other basic necessities. Our priorities are so messed up that its difficult for me to do anything but shake my head and say "We deserve the messed up world in which we live."
As if that is not bad enough, it will be another ten years and a lot more money before these same scientist are able to make their machine do what they built it to do. It will be ten more years and a lot more money before these same scientist are able to discover that their machine can't possibly hope to do what they built it to do, because the universe was not created from a big bang. Picture myself shaking my head and muttering "idiots" under my breath.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
New Blog Link
I have added to my links the blog I began for school. Rather than repeating ideas both there and here I figured I would link the sites. English is now a big part of my life and I am constantly inspired by what I am teaching the kids. Most of the time I will put those inspirations up on my school blog. If you are interested in those ideas you can sift through the homework reminders and look for these thoughts.
If enough of you out there would like me to post those thoughts, or interesting tid-bits on this site so you don't need to sift, then let me know. It is easy enough to duplicate the post on this site as well. If you would rather I didn't let this site be overtaken by English as my life has (I imagine my wife, for one, is already sick of hearing about school related items) then just remain silent.
It's up to you, faithful readers!
P.S. I put up an interesting YouTube video entitled The Shakespearean Baseball Game on the other blog. If you like Shakespeare, or baseball, check it out.
If enough of you out there would like me to post those thoughts, or interesting tid-bits on this site so you don't need to sift, then let me know. It is easy enough to duplicate the post on this site as well. If you would rather I didn't let this site be overtaken by English as my life has (I imagine my wife, for one, is already sick of hearing about school related items) then just remain silent.
It's up to you, faithful readers!
P.S. I put up an interesting YouTube video entitled The Shakespearean Baseball Game on the other blog. If you like Shakespeare, or baseball, check it out.
Video Fixed
For those of you who were unable to watch the video, it has been fixed. Apparently YouTube undergoes periodic maintenance and their videos don't work. Continue to check back if it happens again.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Cake Song
I began another school related blog for students and parents so that they could keep up to date with homework and tests and things of that nature. It is interesting to see some of the reactions start to roll in. I had one parent call me up today asking what a blog was and why I was using it. I tried to explain the best I could (though it is much easier to 'get it' by looking at one) but at the end of the conversation she still wasn't convinced. It didn't help that I mentioned she would get some more information on it tomorrow because I am having all my students do blogs this year instead of journal writing in class. This applies to every student in ELA, from grade six to grade twelve. There has been a bit of resistance now from students as well as today I was going over internet safety and the ongoing blogging assignment they will have to complete. Basically, I have asked them to, on their own time, complete 2 blog posts a week for the course; they can blog about ANYTHING they like, but the senior highs need some depth of thought. Junior Highs go all year, senior highs are semestered. I spoke with the senior highs about it today, and had decided to search out a variety of blogs to show them so they could get an idea about all the options they have.
By now you may be wondering why this post is called "The Cake Song". Well, last night as I was searching blindly for good blogs to show (by repeatedly hitting the "Next Blog" button at the top of my blog) I came across a blog with a video called "The Cake Song". I thought this would invoke some laughter and help them see just what they can do with a blog. Check it out below if you like stupid, but addicting videos. Ensure you have your volume on and up BEFORE clicking on Play.
It did its job with the students. As funny as you think it is to blast the volume and dance along while you sit in your own home, try to picture 18 senior high students blaring the song from 18 computers, all started at different times. It was a blast! By the end of the class most of them seemed excited to give blogging a try. We'll see how it goes tomorrow as I walk them through setting up their blog and ensuring proper settings.
As for the slow-to-catch-up-with-technology parents, I guess I will have to be patient and hope they are willing to move out of their own comfort zones and out into the wonderful world of the world wide web (or as Homer Simpson calls it "the interweb").
By now you may be wondering why this post is called "The Cake Song". Well, last night as I was searching blindly for good blogs to show (by repeatedly hitting the "Next Blog" button at the top of my blog) I came across a blog with a video called "The Cake Song". I thought this would invoke some laughter and help them see just what they can do with a blog. Check it out below if you like stupid, but addicting videos. Ensure you have your volume on and up BEFORE clicking on Play.
It did its job with the students. As funny as you think it is to blast the volume and dance along while you sit in your own home, try to picture 18 senior high students blaring the song from 18 computers, all started at different times. It was a blast! By the end of the class most of them seemed excited to give blogging a try. We'll see how it goes tomorrow as I walk them through setting up their blog and ensuring proper settings.
As for the slow-to-catch-up-with-technology parents, I guess I will have to be patient and hope they are willing to move out of their own comfort zones and out into the wonderful world of the world wide web (or as Homer Simpson calls it "the interweb").
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
First Day of School
Well, today was the first day of classes for the family and we all survived. I began teaching today--grade 6/7, 9, 10, and 11 English Language Arts. Things went okay. Some kids were a little chatty, and I'm hoping it was just because it was the first day, but I doubt it. That's okay though, I'm excited to be back.
Knox had his first day of grade 2 and Declan had her first day in grade 1. It all went well and they had a great day. Declan has a teacher who is new to the school and is in a portable, but her teacher seems nice and she is looking forward to a full day of school this year.
Jennifer made it through sending Declan to school for a full day and had the day at home with Oakley. She was a bit sad, but had more time in her day not having to go to the school at lunch.
I introduced my classes with a poem by Rudyard Kipling that I thought I would share here as well. It's a beautiful poem that asks us to consider what kind of person we are and how we will live our lives.
"If"
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much,
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!
By Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936).
Knox had his first day of grade 2 and Declan had her first day in grade 1. It all went well and they had a great day. Declan has a teacher who is new to the school and is in a portable, but her teacher seems nice and she is looking forward to a full day of school this year.
Jennifer made it through sending Declan to school for a full day and had the day at home with Oakley. She was a bit sad, but had more time in her day not having to go to the school at lunch.
I introduced my classes with a poem by Rudyard Kipling that I thought I would share here as well. It's a beautiful poem that asks us to consider what kind of person we are and how we will live our lives.
"If"
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much,
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!
By Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936).
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Uninspired Post
Well, it's been a week and I have not posted anything new; I am feeling guilty and thus "the uninspired post". But please don't stop reading because of my own lack of inspiration. Who knows what this post might inspire within you.
Let's talk this through a little. Nothing has really happened in the last week to make me jump on my computer and begin typing one of my usually phenomenal posts. As I spoke with my parents last night on the phone I realized that this week has been pretty much uneventful for me. A lot of this, I think, stems from the fact that school starts two days from now (for the kids in a week tomorrow) and I have been trying to cram as much relaxation into my last week as possible. I guess I figured the best way to do this was to do nothing. And so I did nothing. The kids had swimming lessons, my wife had her mother, sister, and cousin over, and I sat all curled up with my laptop and tv remote and did nothing. Looking back on the week I feel a little bad about this, but, then again, not really. It has been a very relaxing week, and after being bored for a lot of it I am certainly ready to head back to school.
I love teaching and am looking forward to another year--my second. I have big plans to improve the things that could have been better and to help a least a couple students appreciate English Language Arts a little bit more. This year is going to be a little more work than last year because I am teaching more courses than last year. On the other hand I do have a good base for the courses I taught last year so it may all even out in the end. One big thing that is going to add to my work load is that Jennifer is working (teaching dance) 4 nights a week this year, whereas last year she wasn't teaching at all. The kids are also taking some dance lessons a few nights a week. In all it should be a really good year. (It seems odd to think that this is the beginning of a new year, rather than January first starting the year. I guess that's what happens when you are a house of teachers and students.)
I think that's it. I will try to keep posting regularly (that's why I waited until summer to begin a blog), but in the meantime: Have a good year!
Let's talk this through a little. Nothing has really happened in the last week to make me jump on my computer and begin typing one of my usually phenomenal posts. As I spoke with my parents last night on the phone I realized that this week has been pretty much uneventful for me. A lot of this, I think, stems from the fact that school starts two days from now (for the kids in a week tomorrow) and I have been trying to cram as much relaxation into my last week as possible. I guess I figured the best way to do this was to do nothing. And so I did nothing. The kids had swimming lessons, my wife had her mother, sister, and cousin over, and I sat all curled up with my laptop and tv remote and did nothing. Looking back on the week I feel a little bad about this, but, then again, not really. It has been a very relaxing week, and after being bored for a lot of it I am certainly ready to head back to school.
I love teaching and am looking forward to another year--my second. I have big plans to improve the things that could have been better and to help a least a couple students appreciate English Language Arts a little bit more. This year is going to be a little more work than last year because I am teaching more courses than last year. On the other hand I do have a good base for the courses I taught last year so it may all even out in the end. One big thing that is going to add to my work load is that Jennifer is working (teaching dance) 4 nights a week this year, whereas last year she wasn't teaching at all. The kids are also taking some dance lessons a few nights a week. In all it should be a really good year. (It seems odd to think that this is the beginning of a new year, rather than January first starting the year. I guess that's what happens when you are a house of teachers and students.)
I think that's it. I will try to keep posting regularly (that's why I waited until summer to begin a blog), but in the meantime: Have a good year!
Monday, August 18, 2008
The Dream Giver
At church yesterday the pastor referenced a book called The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson. The book is written as a modern day parable of a man seeking to fulfill his God-given dream.
I have not read this book (but intent to give it a read when I get the money and time), but would love to hear from you if you have read it.
There seems to be some criticism on the internet of the book's ideas, mainly stemming from the term "dream" and how it can be misconstrued as living your own dream rather than the life that God has intended for you to live. This point was briefly brought up by the pastor and he made it clear that as far as his use during the sermon, the term "dream" was to mean the plan that God has for your life.
I thought this book sounded interesting, as was the sermon, and it stuck with me for a couple of reasons. First, the theme fits nicely with the theme of this blog: taking a risk in life because that is what life is about, rather than living in the safety of comfort and familiar (words brought up frequently in the book from what I can tell).
And second, it made me begin to reflect on what God may be wanting me to do with my life and whether or not I am listening to Him and if I will be willing to obey. Am I really where God wants me? How will I know what God wants from me for certain? Do I have the courage to leave the harbour if that is what God wants? If I am to be honest with myself I think I would have to say that I am not certain that the life I am living now is what God really wants for me. But I don't know for certain. My walk with God recently has not been what I know it should be which is not ideal for hearing His voice and certainly is not helpful when it comes to listening to His voice.
Where I am heading with this post is here:
1. If you have any comments about The Dream Giver or Bruce Wilkinson let me know.
2. If you want to share ideas about God's plan for your life and how I, or other readers can support you, then please share.
3. If you could pray for me and my walk with God that would be appreciated. I have been convicted recently to do better in this area and could use your prayers to help me stay motivated and avoid backsliding. I realize that my own prayer and Bible study will be essential in order to hear God's voice in my life and for me to want to listen to Him.
4. I posted this fairly personal post with the hopes that from time to time you will hold me accountable to item 3. I know many of my regular readers are Christians who will be more than happy to help me out with this. I have found that making goals and intentions known to others is important to succeed with them.
God Bless.
P.S.
The last evening before we left my parents house we were playing a game called "Quiddler". I played the word "AA" and was told my next post needs to include this word.
I have no good way to work the word into this post but here is what I have found out about the word.
AA [ah ah]: A type of lava having a rough, jagged surface. It is relatively slow moving in its molten state, advancing in the form of massive blocks with fissured and angular surfaces that ride on a viscous interior. The blocks range in size between the size of a football and the size of a house.
Further understanding of the word comes when compare to the word
Pahoehoe: A type of lava having a smooth, swirled surface. It is highly fluid and spreads out in shiny sheets.
: Basaltic lava having a smooth or billowy surface.
I have not read this book (but intent to give it a read when I get the money and time), but would love to hear from you if you have read it.
There seems to be some criticism on the internet of the book's ideas, mainly stemming from the term "dream" and how it can be misconstrued as living your own dream rather than the life that God has intended for you to live. This point was briefly brought up by the pastor and he made it clear that as far as his use during the sermon, the term "dream" was to mean the plan that God has for your life.
I thought this book sounded interesting, as was the sermon, and it stuck with me for a couple of reasons. First, the theme fits nicely with the theme of this blog: taking a risk in life because that is what life is about, rather than living in the safety of comfort and familiar (words brought up frequently in the book from what I can tell).
And second, it made me begin to reflect on what God may be wanting me to do with my life and whether or not I am listening to Him and if I will be willing to obey. Am I really where God wants me? How will I know what God wants from me for certain? Do I have the courage to leave the harbour if that is what God wants? If I am to be honest with myself I think I would have to say that I am not certain that the life I am living now is what God really wants for me. But I don't know for certain. My walk with God recently has not been what I know it should be which is not ideal for hearing His voice and certainly is not helpful when it comes to listening to His voice.
Where I am heading with this post is here:
1. If you have any comments about The Dream Giver or Bruce Wilkinson let me know.
2. If you want to share ideas about God's plan for your life and how I, or other readers can support you, then please share.
3. If you could pray for me and my walk with God that would be appreciated. I have been convicted recently to do better in this area and could use your prayers to help me stay motivated and avoid backsliding. I realize that my own prayer and Bible study will be essential in order to hear God's voice in my life and for me to want to listen to Him.
4. I posted this fairly personal post with the hopes that from time to time you will hold me accountable to item 3. I know many of my regular readers are Christians who will be more than happy to help me out with this. I have found that making goals and intentions known to others is important to succeed with them.
God Bless.
P.S.
The last evening before we left my parents house we were playing a game called "Quiddler". I played the word "AA" and was told my next post needs to include this word.
I have no good way to work the word into this post but here is what I have found out about the word.
AA [ah ah]: A type of lava having a rough, jagged surface. It is relatively slow moving in its molten state, advancing in the form of massive blocks with fissured and angular surfaces that ride on a viscous interior. The blocks range in size between the size of a football and the size of a house.
Further understanding of the word comes when compare to the word
Pahoehoe: A type of lava having a smooth, swirled surface. It is highly fluid and spreads out in shiny sheets.
: Basaltic lava having a smooth or billowy surface.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Olympics
The Olympic Opening Ceremonies began today and I found myself underwhelmed with mixed feelings. I say underwhelmed because the Games are rarely something that gets me as worked up as I feel I ought to be for an event of such magnitude. The topic of the Olympics always stirs up a mixture of emotions for me; I love the idea of the games, and I love opportunities for our great country to show its stuff, but I find the sports usually quite boring to sit through and the coverage and interviews often more so.
At this point I should mention that it's not Olympic sports that I find boring per se, but that I find it tedious to watch almost any sport on TV (baseball is my one exception (if it's the Blue Jays), but even then there are some days I just can't do it).
An example of what I mean is happening as I sit here at 10:40pm typing this post. Men's cycling is currently being televised and it is far from interesting. Some people find golf or tennis or yes even baseball boring but at least there are variances in these sports that can make it interesting. But biking?!? The announcer just said it's been a pretty good race so far, and I am wondering what makes a race good or bad. I will admit that some of the comments made are interesting, and the announcers do try to explain a lot of what is really going on. It is not my intent to sound snobbish, I do understand that what these athletes are doing is not easy, and there is more to it than what is seen by the "non-biking" viewer; but as a non-biking viewer I find it difficult to care.
CBC has already been doing a good job of breaking up the cycling coverage with other things that some may find interesting, and I can take a bit at a time. I do plan on watching the games and cheering for Canada as much as I can (both time wise and interest wise).
I really do love the idea of a true international competition. Baseball has a World Series, which is anything but a World series. The Olympics offer the opportunity for countries to put their best athletes forward to compete. It must be a totally awe-inspiring experience for those with the talent and drive to compete at this level. What a great reward for all their hard work. The Games also provide regular citizens the chance to celebrate their fellow country men and women, and their country. I like that, and like supporting Canada by watching our athletes.
One other thing that I wanted to mention was the fact that the host city is different every year. CBC does a great job of showing us the history and culture of the host city and country. I do like learning more about other parts of the world in a fun and interesting manner, especially since I have never been further east than Quebec and briefly through a couple northern United States. I would someday love to see more of the world, but deep down feel like that is unlikely to ever happen (not that it is necessarily unlikely, just that it feels that way to me). This will be one thing that I intend to push myself to do: To leave my comfort zone, make the plans that need to be made to get out of North America, and take the risks that are involved.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Canoe Trip
Well, I wouldn't exactly call it a risk, unless you consider having three generations of Groff males trapped together in a 12 foot aluminum tube for four-and-a-half hours on a moderately wide and flowing river a risk, but today was certainly an adventure new to me, and I think that is definitely in keeping with the theme of this blog.
Bethel Baptist Church offered its men the opportunity to do some paddling today on Rainy River. In all there were 5 canoes and a kayak that pushed off from a boat launch in Fort Frances at 9:30 this morning and traveled for approximately 15 miles (about 24 kilometers) down river. It took roughly 4.5 hours. The weather was beautiful--sunny with a bit of wind to keep us cool and to keep the bugs away. Unfortunately the wind was blowing against us most of the time, and when it picked up it created some pretty good waves for us to cut through. But the trip was great. We even saw some bald eagles, about 12 or so, as well as a pelican take flight from a large rock in the middle of the river when we passed, and 5 pelicans flying together overhead.
Dad, Knox, and I had one canoe which was fun. As soon as we pushed off, Knox started screaming about the tippiness of the canoe and how he wanted to go back. I figured his hysterical fit was tipping us more than anything so I took us to the dock and as soon as we were stopped he jumped out and ran. We coaxed him back and prayed with him about his fear (He had just learned at VBS that God has the power to help us be brave) and he was really good for the rest of the trip. Isn't God good! He did have a bit of a fit when he thought we were lost (which we weren't), but calmed down and rested in the bottom of the boat.
I have never canoed that long at one time before and was unsure how I would feel afterward. I am doing pretty good right now, aside from a bit of a sunburn on my quads where I forgot to put sunscreen, and I am fairly exhausted (still headed out to the States for a while tonight thought). I suspect that DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) will set in tomorrow, and be even worse on Monday, but I will deal with that when it arises.
In all it was a great day, with a nice BBQ after, and something that I have never done, but am happy to say that now I have. Get out there and try something new over the next couple days and leave a comment to share your success.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Vacation Update
Today it is raining, and I am feeling a little bit like the kids in Dr. Seuss' "Cat in the Hat" waiting for the rain to stop. So I thought I would pass the time with a bit of an update. I won't bore you with all the details that at least half of my readers already know, but I will give a short update for anyone who might care.
Today is Thursday and it is raining. The kids are making crafts and seem quite content. I am blogging and am also content. I'm not sure what the plan for the day is.
Yesterday was Wednesday. We got up, had breakfast, took a tour of my dad's church, had lunch, went out and looked around Fort Frances and had a nap. There was a boat parade last evening for the Fort Frances Annual Bass Fishing Competition that we went and watched. Bethel Baptist Church (the church my dad pastor's) was handing out free water and Coke to anyone who wanted it. It was gone by the time the parade started and we got a prime spot near the end of the route. The kids loved it. Basically the parade consisted of A Lot of speed boats each being pulled by a pick-up truck and manned by men, women, and a number of children. A lot of the boaters wore matching outfits and had decked out boats. Most of the boats were tossing candy and/or souvenirs and the kids got almost as much candy as they did on Halloween.
After the parade (which was surprising long) we journeyed across the country line into the States where we had supper. It was a fabulous meal and quite cheap. And they took Canadian money on par and gave American for change.
The day before yesterday was Tuesday. We arrived in Fort Frances around 5:30 had supper chatted with my parents and went to Wal-mart to pick up some things we needed to get. We were exhausted by the end of the day; it is amazing how tiring it can be to sit on your butt for ten and a half hours of driving.
The day before the day before yesterday was Monday. We left St. Albert Alberta at 4:25am and arrived in Yorkton Saskatchewan at 2:40pm. We checked into our hotel room, had Pizza Hut for supper, did some swimming and were all asleep by 7:00pm.
In all we drove in 4 provinces and 1 United State. The weather was wonderfully cooperative and so were the kids. We are happy to be done traveling for a little while (Monday we are taking a 4 hour trip to Minneapolis for a few days of camping and sight seeing).
Today is Thursday and it is raining. The kids are making crafts and seem quite content. I am blogging and am also content. I'm not sure what the plan for the day is.
Yesterday was Wednesday. We got up, had breakfast, took a tour of my dad's church, had lunch, went out and looked around Fort Frances and had a nap. There was a boat parade last evening for the Fort Frances Annual Bass Fishing Competition that we went and watched. Bethel Baptist Church (the church my dad pastor's) was handing out free water and Coke to anyone who wanted it. It was gone by the time the parade started and we got a prime spot near the end of the route. The kids loved it. Basically the parade consisted of A Lot of speed boats each being pulled by a pick-up truck and manned by men, women, and a number of children. A lot of the boaters wore matching outfits and had decked out boats. Most of the boats were tossing candy and/or souvenirs and the kids got almost as much candy as they did on Halloween.
After the parade (which was surprising long) we journeyed across the country line into the States where we had supper. It was a fabulous meal and quite cheap. And they took Canadian money on par and gave American for change.
The day before yesterday was Tuesday. We arrived in Fort Frances around 5:30 had supper chatted with my parents and went to Wal-mart to pick up some things we needed to get. We were exhausted by the end of the day; it is amazing how tiring it can be to sit on your butt for ten and a half hours of driving.
The day before the day before yesterday was Monday. We left St. Albert Alberta at 4:25am and arrived in Yorkton Saskatchewan at 2:40pm. We checked into our hotel room, had Pizza Hut for supper, did some swimming and were all asleep by 7:00pm.
In all we drove in 4 provinces and 1 United State. The weather was wonderfully cooperative and so were the kids. We are happy to be done traveling for a little while (Monday we are taking a 4 hour trip to Minneapolis for a few days of camping and sight seeing).
Sunday, July 20, 2008
WooHoo Vacation
I am currently resting after leg two of our Vacation Driving. I am sitting at my sister-in-law's in St. Albert after the two hour drive this afternoon from Edson. We left Grande Prairie Friday after Vacation Bible School (which the kids loved and learned a lot from). We arrived in Edson Friday late afternoon after driving 3.5 hours. We stayed at the in-law's for Saturday, then after church left for St. Albert. Tomorrow we leave at 5am for the long drive to Fort Frances Ontario where we will spent 3 weeks with my parents and sister (being a teacher sure does have its perks). The drive is about 20 hours from Edmonton and will take us 2 days. We are looking forward to the break as this is my our first real vacation since we have been married (nearly 11 years). So, while I will try to find some topics and time to blog, the consistency will not be great.
Monday, July 14, 2008
All-Star Game Follow Up
Well, if you missed the home run derby, you missed what is being hailed as the best single performance ever at a home run derby. In his first round, Josh Hamilton hit 28 home runs, the best first round ever. He was the favorite going into the competition (for the fans, the announcers, and even the other competitors). He was under the 3-round total of 41 homers, hitting only 35, but was still very impressive considering he only took 4 outs in the second round then quit. He went up against the only Canadian in the competition for the final round; Justin Morneau. They were both American Leaguers so either way I was happy. Luckily for Morneau, only the first two rounds are accumulative, so they went into round three tied at zero. After hitting only 5 home runs Morneau left the plate feeling a bit depressed, and the announcers were confident Hamilton had it in the bag. But they were wrong. Hamilton hit only 3 homers, but is still being called a hero. There had been concern that Hamilton would be too tired after his first round, and at the end of the second round (he hit a couple to keep himself and his 71 year old pitcher warm) he was shanking the ball quite nastily. It seems the concern was justified. Congratulations to Morneau, a Canadian from BC on his underdog win. Josh's comments after the competition were full of praise for Hamilton, saying that Hamilton deserved the win, and that he (Morneau) simply got lucky that Hamilton got tired.
I also think it is neat that they have a "gold ball" for charity. After the ninth out (a swing that is not a home run) they use a gold ball and every home run was paying $17,000 for the Variety Boys and Girls Club. Altogether they gave away $170,000. Way to go State Farm and MLB.
Well I think Hamilton put to rest the steroids question, and I guess time will tell if the competition has ruined his swing. Either way it was a competition that will not soon be forgotten.
I also think it is neat that they have a "gold ball" for charity. After the ninth out (a swing that is not a home run) they use a gold ball and every home run was paying $17,000 for the Variety Boys and Girls Club. Altogether they gave away $170,000. Way to go State Farm and MLB.
Well I think Hamilton put to rest the steroids question, and I guess time will tell if the competition has ruined his swing. Either way it was a competition that will not soon be forgotten.
All-Star Game
Any baseball fans out there? I've been cheering for the Blue Jays since I was born, and still love watching the games. Especially now that I get my summers off--I've missed few games since the start of the season and even fewer since the end of June.
Tonight is the Home Run Derby and tomorrow is the All-Star Game. I'm typing this as I watch the pre-game show. Being a Blue Jay fan makes me an American League fan and for the next two days I get to cheer for many players who I normally dis.
As I sit here listening to the broadcasters talk it's amazing to listen to all the politics, issues, and concerns that come up in professional baseball (and all professional sports I'm sure). I especially like the concern that participating in the home run derby will wreck a hitter's swing. the announcers seem to disagree, but there are players and coaches who dislike the competition. Even Rios' poor hitting is being blamed in part to his participation in the competition last year. The crackdown on steroid use is also being discussed and how the contestants this year are not as "bulky" as in past years. Will this affect the total number of home runs that are hit? I guess we'll find out.
So if you need to get a hold of me the next night or two you better flip on Sports Net first and make sure it's a commercial break.
Tonight is the Home Run Derby and tomorrow is the All-Star Game. I'm typing this as I watch the pre-game show. Being a Blue Jay fan makes me an American League fan and for the next two days I get to cheer for many players who I normally dis.
As I sit here listening to the broadcasters talk it's amazing to listen to all the politics, issues, and concerns that come up in professional baseball (and all professional sports I'm sure). I especially like the concern that participating in the home run derby will wreck a hitter's swing. the announcers seem to disagree, but there are players and coaches who dislike the competition. Even Rios' poor hitting is being blamed in part to his participation in the competition last year. The crackdown on steroid use is also being discussed and how the contestants this year are not as "bulky" as in past years. Will this affect the total number of home runs that are hit? I guess we'll find out.
So if you need to get a hold of me the next night or two you better flip on Sports Net first and make sure it's a commercial break.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Cell Phones and Driving
I came across an article in a local newspaper about banning hand-held cell phones while driving. I will post more about this article and my opinions about it later, BUT, for the moment, why don't you go ahead and leave your comments here for everyone to read. Try to be nice!
There is a poll in the right column for you to leave your opinion in an easy to gauge format. Please feel free to explain your answer/s in a comment. And check back often to see how your opinion compares to others'. You can mark multiple answers on the poll so mark all that apply to you.
There is a poll in the right column for you to leave your opinion in an easy to gauge format. Please feel free to explain your answer/s in a comment. And check back often to see how your opinion compares to others'. You can mark multiple answers on the poll so mark all that apply to you.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Reflecting on Kids
I love my kids and I’m so glad they’re mine,
I cherish their innocence, and their faces shine.
Kadence, my eldest, was a beauty I’ll say,
And now she’s with Jesus where I’ll meet her one day.
She taught me a lot about patience and peace,
And helped my faith and love to increase.
Knox, my boy, my only son,
Is a blast and a bomb; a torpedo of fun.
He’s scared of TV, but plays monsters with me,
And his laugh is so cute when he’s cram packed with glee.
Declan is five and is always alive
With laugher or tantrums her emotions thrive.
She’s brave and she’s bright and quick with a hug,
And brushes off troubles with a smile and shrug.
Oakley is cute and cuddly, and sweet,
With a laugh you know no one can beat.
Such a sweet baby, a bundle of love,
She fits in my heart like a hand in a glove.
My kids can make my heart and soul soar,
But after Tuesday I’ll be having no more.
After four kids my wife and I finally called it quits. After Oakley was born we hummed and hawed for a while on whether or not we should have one more so we didn't have a middle child. We decided we were done. (Feel free to leave a comment on what you think about having three kids or if you think you should have another to avoid the middle child syndrome. (For us it's too late, but you might help someone else out.))
I went in Tuesday for the operation at the hospital in Grande Prairie. After waiting for forty minutes past the appointment time the operation took all of 15 minutes. For all those of you feeling upset by my last post you can rest a bit easier knowing that for the two days after I was in a bit of pain. Things are going better now, just a bit of discomfort from time to time and stitches I have to remember are there. I was told it will take a week or so before things are back to normal.
So while I love my kids, and wouldn't do anything different, these are all there will be--barring any accidents in the next 2-3 months.
I cherish their innocence, and their faces shine.
Kadence, my eldest, was a beauty I’ll say,
And now she’s with Jesus where I’ll meet her one day.
She taught me a lot about patience and peace,
And helped my faith and love to increase.
Knox, my boy, my only son,
Is a blast and a bomb; a torpedo of fun.
He’s scared of TV, but plays monsters with me,
And his laugh is so cute when he’s cram packed with glee.
Declan is five and is always alive
With laugher or tantrums her emotions thrive.
She’s brave and she’s bright and quick with a hug,
And brushes off troubles with a smile and shrug.
Oakley is cute and cuddly, and sweet,
With a laugh you know no one can beat.
Such a sweet baby, a bundle of love,
She fits in my heart like a hand in a glove.
My kids can make my heart and soul soar,
But after Tuesday I’ll be having no more.
After four kids my wife and I finally called it quits. After Oakley was born we hummed and hawed for a while on whether or not we should have one more so we didn't have a middle child. We decided we were done. (Feel free to leave a comment on what you think about having three kids or if you think you should have another to avoid the middle child syndrome. (For us it's too late, but you might help someone else out.))
I went in Tuesday for the operation at the hospital in Grande Prairie. After waiting for forty minutes past the appointment time the operation took all of 15 minutes. For all those of you feeling upset by my last post you can rest a bit easier knowing that for the two days after I was in a bit of pain. Things are going better now, just a bit of discomfort from time to time and stitches I have to remember are there. I was told it will take a week or so before things are back to normal.
So while I love my kids, and wouldn't do anything different, these are all there will be--barring any accidents in the next 2-3 months.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Morgentaler's Order of Canada
It was my intention to ignore this area of politics as I generally attempt to ignore most political issues, and perhaps one day I will try to explain my reasons for this more in depth than I intend to now, but I am getting annoyed and frustrated by people telling me that as a Christian I should be outraged by this event, and I am feeling the need to express my opinion. After having this issue brought up briefly in a church service, and seeing the posting by my father-in-law, I did some checking into this issue and was appalled, not only by the number of people attacking Morgentaler and the honour bestowed upon him, but also by the explicit and implicit statements that anyone who is a Christian or against abortion is, or should be doing the same. I will try to explain my position as coherently as possible in order to minimize the backlash that I may incur for my opinion. I will also do my best to stick to the Morgentaler case specifically.
I disagree wholeheartedly with the abuse that Christians choose to heap upon an individual's sin simply because their actions make the news or relate to politics. As Christians, I believe that we ought to show love, and compassion, and understanding toward individuals--to show the love and mercy that God has shown us. Judging Morgentaler's actions as an abortion activist does not seem to be the business of the church or of me as a Christian. And using Christian values to determine that a man does not deserve the Order of Canada seems equally absurd. The criteria used to decide who receives this honour is not based upon the Word of God (as much as many of us may wish it was), but upon an individual's contributions to Canadians as a whole. While I may disagree with Morgentaler's actions and beliefs, it is extremely pretentious to claim that within the values of Canadian society he has not "desired a better country". Canadian law allowed abortion and Morgentaler sacrificed a lot in order to stand up for his beliefs and make the laws of our country fair to all women. He did desire a better Canada so far as he envisioned the way that Canada should be--and in the end "Canada" agreed with his vision.
I do not agree with Morgentaler's, or the Supreme Court's vision for Canada as far as abortion is concerned. I believe that abortion is a sin; that it is murder. But I also do not agree with religious groups trying to push their morals on others. If you want to lobby the government's laws on abortion then that is your right; however, in light of comments I made on my father's blog on Canada Day, one great thing about this nation is that we are all entitled to our belief's . . . that must be extended to the Morgentaler's in society. And if we all really stopped to consider the issue here, I think we would agree that we have a problem with abortion, not specifically with Morgentaler--he is simply receiving the brunt of our anger at the way our country has chosen to move away from Godly values.
I would like to reference this passage from John chapter 8 as support for my position. The passage has been take from: http://www.nasb.scripturetext.com/john/8.htm
John 8
New American Standard Bible ©
The Adulterous Woman
1 But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2 Early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them. 3 The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the center of the court, 4 they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 “Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?” 6 They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground. 7 But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9 When they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the center of the court. 10 Straightening up, Jesus said to her, “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?” 11 She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.”]
In this passage we have the Pharisees, a religious group, attempting to trick Jesus. They have decided to target one specific woman for her sin and have Jesus rule on whether or not they should kill her as the Old Testament requires. However, Jesus refuses to play their games and says that any of them who have not sinned may go ahead and stone the woman. None of them are able to fulfill this prerequisite, and they all leave. From this example it seems clear to me that targeting and attacking one person for their sin is not Biblical. The question is not whether the woman has sinned but whether or not her sin should be judged by us. Jesus tells the woman to go and sin no more, recognizing, yet forgiving her sin. I believe that as Christians we should do the same. Has Morgentaler sinned? Yes he has. Should we be the ones to condemn him? No we shouldn't. Had the Pharisees come to Jesus asking what they ought to do with individuals who commit adultery, rather than bringing this one specific woman, it would have been interesting to hear his answer; but they did not.
If you, as a Christian, want to lobby our government with your beliefs then go ahead (I may one day try to explain why I don't care to waste my time with doing this, but I certainly will not discourage you from doing so); however, I do not feel we should be attacking individuals whom God loves, and please stop telling me that if I am a Christian I should feel bad if I don't.
I disagree wholeheartedly with the abuse that Christians choose to heap upon an individual's sin simply because their actions make the news or relate to politics. As Christians, I believe that we ought to show love, and compassion, and understanding toward individuals--to show the love and mercy that God has shown us. Judging Morgentaler's actions as an abortion activist does not seem to be the business of the church or of me as a Christian. And using Christian values to determine that a man does not deserve the Order of Canada seems equally absurd. The criteria used to decide who receives this honour is not based upon the Word of God (as much as many of us may wish it was), but upon an individual's contributions to Canadians as a whole. While I may disagree with Morgentaler's actions and beliefs, it is extremely pretentious to claim that within the values of Canadian society he has not "desired a better country". Canadian law allowed abortion and Morgentaler sacrificed a lot in order to stand up for his beliefs and make the laws of our country fair to all women. He did desire a better Canada so far as he envisioned the way that Canada should be--and in the end "Canada" agreed with his vision.
I do not agree with Morgentaler's, or the Supreme Court's vision for Canada as far as abortion is concerned. I believe that abortion is a sin; that it is murder. But I also do not agree with religious groups trying to push their morals on others. If you want to lobby the government's laws on abortion then that is your right; however, in light of comments I made on my father's blog on Canada Day, one great thing about this nation is that we are all entitled to our belief's . . . that must be extended to the Morgentaler's in society. And if we all really stopped to consider the issue here, I think we would agree that we have a problem with abortion, not specifically with Morgentaler--he is simply receiving the brunt of our anger at the way our country has chosen to move away from Godly values.
I would like to reference this passage from John chapter 8 as support for my position. The passage has been take from: http://www.nasb.scripturetext.com/john/8.htm
John 8
New American Standard Bible ©
The Adulterous Woman
1 But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2 Early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them. 3 The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the center of the court, 4 they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 “Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?” 6 They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground. 7 But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9 When they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the center of the court. 10 Straightening up, Jesus said to her, “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?” 11 She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.”]
In this passage we have the Pharisees, a religious group, attempting to trick Jesus. They have decided to target one specific woman for her sin and have Jesus rule on whether or not they should kill her as the Old Testament requires. However, Jesus refuses to play their games and says that any of them who have not sinned may go ahead and stone the woman. None of them are able to fulfill this prerequisite, and they all leave. From this example it seems clear to me that targeting and attacking one person for their sin is not Biblical. The question is not whether the woman has sinned but whether or not her sin should be judged by us. Jesus tells the woman to go and sin no more, recognizing, yet forgiving her sin. I believe that as Christians we should do the same. Has Morgentaler sinned? Yes he has. Should we be the ones to condemn him? No we shouldn't. Had the Pharisees come to Jesus asking what they ought to do with individuals who commit adultery, rather than bringing this one specific woman, it would have been interesting to hear his answer; but they did not.
If you, as a Christian, want to lobby our government with your beliefs then go ahead (I may one day try to explain why I don't care to waste my time with doing this, but I certainly will not discourage you from doing so); however, I do not feel we should be attacking individuals whom God loves, and please stop telling me that if I am a Christian I should feel bad if I don't.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Big Business
I have been complaining about this issue for years to my wife, and anyone else who will listen, which usually isn't very many people, but now that I have the "blog outlet" I can vent all I like and if you choose to leave half way through I will never know the difference.
Big Business . . . I wish I could say with certainty that business is not like it used to be when you made your purchases from the locally owned store where you knew Jim or Beth who owned the place and knew that he or she would do their best to look after your needs at a fair price. Jim or Beth were likely the only supplier of what you needed, and logically could gouge you on the price, but Jim or Beth also realized your situation and knew you personally. Jim or Beth, as the owner, also would take pride in their business and run it with honour. At least this is how I picture the "good old days" and some of you may be able to tell some stories to correct me (and feel free to do so). At the very least this is my view on how businesses should operate; whether they ever have or will is beside the point.
All I know is that very few if any business operate this way now. In today's society we get to deal with Big Businesses who employ folks with little or no interest in anything except making some money. Unlike business owners, regular employees rarely care about the customer, or service, or the honour of doing a job well. And while I admit that it is difficult to feel personally committed to a grocery store, second-hand shop, or tree removal company (all jobs I have had and have tried to do my best work for) it is ultimately the customer who suffers from employees with no passion for the company they work for.
For example, today I was talking to the wonderful (I still have not found an acceptable manner of showing sarcasm on the internet--so by "wonderful" I do indeed mean not-so-helpful-contradicting-idiots. Sarcasm is all but lost when chatting online.) phone support workers for Dell Computers. I was trying to purchase a new computer but had some questions. I talked to three different individuals, three different times I called, and got three different answers. The first time I was gaining general information I could use to make a decision. The fellow was helpful enough and one valuable piece of info was that shipping takes about 15 business days but can be rushed if necessary--and for me it was necessary because in 10 business days I leave for vacation in Ontario. The second time I called was after I decided to make the purchase and I was wondering how to put a rush-delivery on my order because the website did not offer that option. At this time I was told that no such option existed and that I should wait until I got home to order the system OR better yet order a more expensive system that had a shorter delivery time. I hung up the phone astounded by such idiocy and annoyed that if I waited I would have to pay an extra $350 for the same computer as the coupon I had would be expired. After deciding upon a viable alternative I called back to ensure that I could ship the computer to my in-laws but still have the billing applied to my name. I talked with another representative and explained the situation and was told by her that the system I wanted to order would take only about 5 business days to reach my home and my viable option was not necessary. I explained what the others had said and she was adamant that I would have my new computer by the end of next week. This made me happy, and after getting her name and employee number, I ordered the computer. NOW WHY COULDN'T THE FIRST GUY HAVE TOLD ME THAT?!?
I know I am rambling now, but I have many other stories I could relate along the same lines (but I'll save them for another day) as I am sure you do (feel free to share some). I do want to say that while I blame individual employees for a lack of concern about providing me with good service I also recognize that often times it is a lack of training or care about them by the employer that leads to their poor service. THAT being said, I also have had experience with Big Business Owners/Managers who do care about their company and customers and are willing to help in any way they can.
All this leads me to believe that somehow there has been/needs to be a shift in thinking when it comes to businesses, their employees, and their customers. Employers need to do their best to ensure their employees represent the company's views on customer service and train them to be able to fulfill those expectations. Employees need to work for companies with which they can internalize those expectations and do their best to uphold the employer's standards. As customers we need to realize that employees are sometimes not to blame for all our complaints against a business. But as I mentioned in a previous post I have high expectations for perfection from others and businesses often take the brunt of my abuse. And now I have a brand new outlet to complain about them.
Big Business . . . I wish I could say with certainty that business is not like it used to be when you made your purchases from the locally owned store where you knew Jim or Beth who owned the place and knew that he or she would do their best to look after your needs at a fair price. Jim or Beth were likely the only supplier of what you needed, and logically could gouge you on the price, but Jim or Beth also realized your situation and knew you personally. Jim or Beth, as the owner, also would take pride in their business and run it with honour. At least this is how I picture the "good old days" and some of you may be able to tell some stories to correct me (and feel free to do so). At the very least this is my view on how businesses should operate; whether they ever have or will is beside the point.
All I know is that very few if any business operate this way now. In today's society we get to deal with Big Businesses who employ folks with little or no interest in anything except making some money. Unlike business owners, regular employees rarely care about the customer, or service, or the honour of doing a job well. And while I admit that it is difficult to feel personally committed to a grocery store, second-hand shop, or tree removal company (all jobs I have had and have tried to do my best work for) it is ultimately the customer who suffers from employees with no passion for the company they work for.
For example, today I was talking to the wonderful (I still have not found an acceptable manner of showing sarcasm on the internet--so by "wonderful" I do indeed mean not-so-helpful-contradicting-idiots. Sarcasm is all but lost when chatting online.) phone support workers for Dell Computers. I was trying to purchase a new computer but had some questions. I talked to three different individuals, three different times I called, and got three different answers. The first time I was gaining general information I could use to make a decision. The fellow was helpful enough and one valuable piece of info was that shipping takes about 15 business days but can be rushed if necessary--and for me it was necessary because in 10 business days I leave for vacation in Ontario. The second time I called was after I decided to make the purchase and I was wondering how to put a rush-delivery on my order because the website did not offer that option. At this time I was told that no such option existed and that I should wait until I got home to order the system OR better yet order a more expensive system that had a shorter delivery time. I hung up the phone astounded by such idiocy and annoyed that if I waited I would have to pay an extra $350 for the same computer as the coupon I had would be expired. After deciding upon a viable alternative I called back to ensure that I could ship the computer to my in-laws but still have the billing applied to my name. I talked with another representative and explained the situation and was told by her that the system I wanted to order would take only about 5 business days to reach my home and my viable option was not necessary. I explained what the others had said and she was adamant that I would have my new computer by the end of next week. This made me happy, and after getting her name and employee number, I ordered the computer. NOW WHY COULDN'T THE FIRST GUY HAVE TOLD ME THAT?!?
I know I am rambling now, but I have many other stories I could relate along the same lines (but I'll save them for another day) as I am sure you do (feel free to share some). I do want to say that while I blame individual employees for a lack of concern about providing me with good service I also recognize that often times it is a lack of training or care about them by the employer that leads to their poor service. THAT being said, I also have had experience with Big Business Owners/Managers who do care about their company and customers and are willing to help in any way they can.
All this leads me to believe that somehow there has been/needs to be a shift in thinking when it comes to businesses, their employees, and their customers. Employers need to do their best to ensure their employees represent the company's views on customer service and train them to be able to fulfill those expectations. Employees need to work for companies with which they can internalize those expectations and do their best to uphold the employer's standards. As customers we need to realize that employees are sometimes not to blame for all our complaints against a business. But as I mentioned in a previous post I have high expectations for perfection from others and businesses often take the brunt of my abuse. And now I have a brand new outlet to complain about them.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Canada Day
We started off Canada Day celebrating with fire works and we ended it the same way. This year we had the privilege of seeing two sets of fireworks in two different cities. In Grande Prairie, because it is so far north and there are traces of light still after midnight, they hold their fireworks at midnight, as June 30th just turns into July 1st. For those of you (like my wife) who don't count the turning of one day into the next until after you go to bed and sleep then it would still be June 30th for you. We had a great time as a family watching the display of colour and the surround sound booms of the firecrackers. Because of where they choose to set of the fireworks there is an echo of the sound from several different places behind you as you watch--it was actually a very interesting experience. Also, it was Oakley's first firecracker experience and she handled it quite well for a one year old. She sat on my lap and watched the brilliant colours explode and dance across the sky with little more than some scared whimpers from time to time.
Later that day, after we slept and it was "officially" Canada Day, we drove to Edson to visit my in-laws. That night we went to see the fireworks in Edson. Both nights were spectacular with perfect weather and good crowds of people out to celebrate Canada's Birthday. Overall, I would say that the display put on by Edson was the better show, particularly because of their finale, which was sorely lacking from the show in Grande Prairie. However, I must applaud the city of Grande Prairie for taking in the needs of their citizens. They had RCMP there keeping things in check (who also proved helpful in letting us know where the fireworks would be taking place and the best place for a family to sit, they gave a 10 minute and 5 minute warning before the event, and they began exactly on time (unlike Edson who was a good 15 minutes behind schedule and provided no indication that they were even going to begin sometime soon.)
The day was a fun one and I am glad that municipalities around our province and country take the time and money to provide this celebration.
Later that day, after we slept and it was "officially" Canada Day, we drove to Edson to visit my in-laws. That night we went to see the fireworks in Edson. Both nights were spectacular with perfect weather and good crowds of people out to celebrate Canada's Birthday. Overall, I would say that the display put on by Edson was the better show, particularly because of their finale, which was sorely lacking from the show in Grande Prairie. However, I must applaud the city of Grande Prairie for taking in the needs of their citizens. They had RCMP there keeping things in check (who also proved helpful in letting us know where the fireworks would be taking place and the best place for a family to sit, they gave a 10 minute and 5 minute warning before the event, and they began exactly on time (unlike Edson who was a good 15 minutes behind schedule and provided no indication that they were even going to begin sometime soon.)
The day was a fun one and I am glad that municipalities around our province and country take the time and money to provide this celebration.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
The Dance
This post is a bit of a continuation on the theme of my blog, partly because I want to establish for you a little bit about who I am and the motivations of my life at this time, and partly because I am new to this and haven't come up with anything insightful, humorous or otherwise interesting to write about.
According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dance_(Garth_Brooks_song), The Dance, is a song recorded in 1989 by Garth Brooks. The song was written by Brooks' friend, Tony Arata. The song is written with a double meaning both as a love song about the end of a passionate relationship and the lyrics also work to tell the story of someone dying because of something they believe in, or a moment of glory. Brooks illustrated this in the music video for the song.
I can't remember when I first heard this song (it has a very catchy tune), but I have since come to appreciate the lyrics as they relate to the idea of actually living life regardless of the pain that may be suffered. The song itself talks about a person who lived their life and took a chance, a person who in the end suffered heartbreak for their choice; but a person who wouldn't do it any differently given the chance. For me, I would listen to this song and ask myself what I was missing out on because I was too afraid to take a chance. Too often I had things that I wanted to do, goals I wanted to achieve, but I was not willing to take the necessary risks, I was not willing to accept the pain that might possibly be suffered. I was afraid I would regret the choice.
Now I regret it when I give in to that fear and don't take the risk. So now, when I am faced with the chance to try something new or the opportunity to begin working toward a goal that will possibly be life changing, I think about all the good things that I might miss out on if I back slowly away from the edge of chasm. One of my favorite quotes that I would like to share with you also speaks to these ideas.
"Don't be afraid to take a leap when one is indicated; you can't cross a chasm in two small steps." -Anonymous
If you want to check out the music video on YouTube for The Dance you can do it here.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxiJJBvZnRI
According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dance_(Garth_Brooks_song), The Dance, is a song recorded in 1989 by Garth Brooks. The song was written by Brooks' friend, Tony Arata. The song is written with a double meaning both as a love song about the end of a passionate relationship and the lyrics also work to tell the story of someone dying because of something they believe in, or a moment of glory. Brooks illustrated this in the music video for the song.
I can't remember when I first heard this song (it has a very catchy tune), but I have since come to appreciate the lyrics as they relate to the idea of actually living life regardless of the pain that may be suffered. The song itself talks about a person who lived their life and took a chance, a person who in the end suffered heartbreak for their choice; but a person who wouldn't do it any differently given the chance. For me, I would listen to this song and ask myself what I was missing out on because I was too afraid to take a chance. Too often I had things that I wanted to do, goals I wanted to achieve, but I was not willing to take the necessary risks, I was not willing to accept the pain that might possibly be suffered. I was afraid I would regret the choice.
Now I regret it when I give in to that fear and don't take the risk. So now, when I am faced with the chance to try something new or the opportunity to begin working toward a goal that will possibly be life changing, I think about all the good things that I might miss out on if I back slowly away from the edge of chasm. One of my favorite quotes that I would like to share with you also speaks to these ideas.
"Don't be afraid to take a leap when one is indicated; you can't cross a chasm in two small steps." -Anonymous
If you want to check out the music video on YouTube for The Dance you can do it here.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxiJJBvZnRI
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Who Am I?
I am a Christian. I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose again. I believe that a faith in Jesus as Saviour is the only way to heaven--that actions, works, denomination, and affiliation only serve to help others understand your beliefs. This is, first and foremost, who I am.
I am a Husband and Father. I am 29 years old, have been married for nearly 11 years, and have had 4 children. My wonderful wife, Jennifer, is 9 months older than I am, and I believe that I was specially created by God just for her when she was born. My first born, Kadence, died of SIDS when she was four and a half months old. She would have been 9 years old this month. Knox, my only son, will be 7 this summer. Declan is 5 years old and only 16 months younger than Knox. Oakley just turned one year old.
I am a Teacher. I have just completed my first year of teaching junior and senior high English Language Arts. My first year was at Ridgevalley School about 45 minutes east of Grande Prairie. I had a great year teaching but am looking forward to the summer break.
While the roles mentioned above give you some indication of WHO I AM, we all know that individuals are made up of more than just the titles they take on. Who I am encompasses my personality, my likes and dislikes, hobbies, etc., and is constantly changing as I live my life. While the content of this blog will likely relate in some way to the three roles I stated above, the tone is likely to portray my personality and mood at the time I write. As an advanced warning to you, and possibly to pique your interest, I will let you know that I am often sarcastic, critical, and expect the best from others (though you should not assume that I appreciate sarcastic, or critical comments about my frequent lack of effort).
You may be wondering about the title of the blog and the picture I have posted. I won't go into too much detail this post, but I will give you a just a bit of background. I fist saw this picture, which is one of those inspirational posters (which usually I hate) a number of years ago. I was at a point in my life when I really needed some direction because I was headed nowhere. This poster really spoke to me as I realized I was holding onto a life of safety instead of taking some risk and moving out of my comfort zone. I decided at that moment that I would begin to take some risks and start living my life. Perhaps you will begin to think about your own life and where you might be willing to take some more risks to accomplish the goals you have but are too afraid to work toward. In case you can't read the caption to the picture it reads:
RISK: A ship in the harbor is safe, but that's not what ships were made for.
I am a Husband and Father. I am 29 years old, have been married for nearly 11 years, and have had 4 children. My wonderful wife, Jennifer, is 9 months older than I am, and I believe that I was specially created by God just for her when she was born. My first born, Kadence, died of SIDS when she was four and a half months old. She would have been 9 years old this month. Knox, my only son, will be 7 this summer. Declan is 5 years old and only 16 months younger than Knox. Oakley just turned one year old.
I am a Teacher. I have just completed my first year of teaching junior and senior high English Language Arts. My first year was at Ridgevalley School about 45 minutes east of Grande Prairie. I had a great year teaching but am looking forward to the summer break.
While the roles mentioned above give you some indication of WHO I AM, we all know that individuals are made up of more than just the titles they take on. Who I am encompasses my personality, my likes and dislikes, hobbies, etc., and is constantly changing as I live my life. While the content of this blog will likely relate in some way to the three roles I stated above, the tone is likely to portray my personality and mood at the time I write. As an advanced warning to you, and possibly to pique your interest, I will let you know that I am often sarcastic, critical, and expect the best from others (though you should not assume that I appreciate sarcastic, or critical comments about my frequent lack of effort).
You may be wondering about the title of the blog and the picture I have posted. I won't go into too much detail this post, but I will give you a just a bit of background. I fist saw this picture, which is one of those inspirational posters (which usually I hate) a number of years ago. I was at a point in my life when I really needed some direction because I was headed nowhere. This poster really spoke to me as I realized I was holding onto a life of safety instead of taking some risk and moving out of my comfort zone. I decided at that moment that I would begin to take some risks and start living my life. Perhaps you will begin to think about your own life and where you might be willing to take some more risks to accomplish the goals you have but are too afraid to work toward. In case you can't read the caption to the picture it reads:
RISK: A ship in the harbor is safe, but that's not what ships were made for.
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