9-11 plus six

Today, I looked again at some video and thought about this day six years ago.
The memories and emotions came roaring back.
Some of the things I've come across either by viewing them in some form or thinking about them in my mind are:
The images of family and friends standing quietly behind Gov. George Pataki with fliers bearing their pictures and contact information.
The men and women who decided that jumping was better than burning alive.
The heroes and heroines who fought back on Flight 93 and somehow prevented what was sure to be more death and destruction.
The photo of a taxicab with a hole in its windshield from a light pole the aircraft flying in to the Pentagon knocked down.
I'm still left with the impression that acts like those we experienced on Sept. 11, 2001 can only be met with the sword.
I wish the Iraqi situation was a lot more clear and that an "exit strategy" was easy to achieve. I think we should redefine our goals in Iraq and begin a reasonable draw-down of forces, but in such a way as to not leave the impression that we consider the situation "lost."
Retreat from this fight should never be a motivation for reduction of forces - only that we've achieved a reasonable sense that we've done all we can to leave Iraq better off than we found it and our enemies in disarray and defeat.
We cannot back down from this fight. They've proven what they'll do when they see a moment of weakness.
We must remember this day for the rest of our lives and let it guide our nation's future actions as it relates to protecting its principles and most importantly, its people.

756 + *

The news that Barry Bonds surpassed Hank Aaron's 33-year-old major league home run record barely registered on my proverbial radar screen. Why?
I'm trying to word this so as to not sound like I'm accusing the man unjustly - I have no proof either way, but I think there are too many unanswered questions about whether Bonds has used performance-enhancing drugs. The evidence on the subject is largely speculative and circumstantial. Until those questions are answered through some legitimate venue, be it a court or an independent review on behalf of Major League Baseball, I think the record should be viewed differently than those of Hank Aaron and Babe Ruth, the record's previous holders.

An exercise in breaking blogger's block

OK, I have this strange thing about posting things here that I want to keep separate from MySpace and vice versa and I'm not entirely sure why. Maybe I've over-compartmentalized myself and my ideas to the point where I don't know what goes where!
So, you haven't seen me much here, mainly because I didn't think I had much to store in this electronic thought bin. I feel this sense of restriction on placing many of my ideas out there for the world to view. Fear is obviously at the root but sometimes I wonder if I'm afraid to conquer fear. You know - I don't know what I'd do with myself if I did?
I just did an Amazon search on "overcoming fear" wondering if anyone had tackled the subject, and sure enough, they have - in spades. There's even one about getting over the fear of success. Is that the root of it, that if I do something that people love that they'll want more of it and I won't be able to produce? Sure, that's an element, but that's not the root.
Another fear is getting "dooced," of course our online acquaintance (only by virtue of reading her blog) Heather Armstrong, through her site www.dooce.com, has turned getting dumped by an employer into a full-time gig. Big yay for her! She's one of my heroines.
I think I've got something to say, to offer to the world, but I haven't quite put my finger on it. Would they listen? Would I be dismissed, ignored or even worse, left to feel like I shouldn't have wasted my breath? What do I have to offer? (I don't have an answer to that yet but this sure does help).
OK, better get ready to get the little one up for the day.
I feel better, do you?

The sword came in handy this week

In our master bathroom, there's about a 2-inch gap between the wall and the sink, which sits on top of a cabinet. The other day, I accidentially knocked my razor down into this tiny canyon. I tried my electric razor for a few minutes and I guess the heads aren't clean or something, because it barely made a dent.
So I began the process of trying to figure out how I could free the razor from captivity. The broom handle was too wide and a search of the kitchen utensils turned up nothing suitable.
Then, I walked past this old ceremonial sword we found in my Mom's house when we were cleaning it out. I can't read the inscription on the blade now but I think we determined it came from a military academy, probably one my Dad attended long ago.
I grabbed the sword, took it to the bathroom and reached with it to get the razor. The first time didn't work and I ultimately only got out the razor itself - the razor blade remains at the bottom of the gap. I had a spare blade in another bathroom cabinet. But I did also retrieve a comb and a travel size of shaving cream.
Determining what to keep and what to throw away is a regular discussion in our household and it's one for which I have no scientific approach.
For me, this is proof that you never know when something for which you have no use suddenly becomes one of the most important things you possess.
But we've noticed recently a change in our outlooks now that we keep the house clean on a regular basis so there's definitely an argument for keeping clutter to a minimum.
I think we just have to trust the Lord to grant us wisdom on this subject and pray that the thing we need the most at the time we need it is there.

Way to make me proud, boys!

As a native of Alabama's capital, I'm defensive of my home turf and its people, and to some degree, the state in which I now reside - Mississippi.
Both states have long been maligned as filled with backward, ignorant, callous and racially insensitive people. Sometimes, these stereotypes are based at least in part on truth, though much of it is outdated. Thankfully both states have made tremendous, genuine strides in moving in reality beyond these perceptions.
Mississippians even developed their own campaign to ward off these opinions - Mississippi Believe It! And both states are experiencing major economic development in such sectors as the automotive and steel industries.
But our good friends in the Alabama legislature added to their great list of dubious accomplishments Thursday and put another stain on the state's reputation. Hopefully they can act like adults and straighten this mess out. But from the people who unplugged clocks to finish budget votes, fell asleep in front of people with cameras and - in one really proud moment, created a situation in which the presiding officer of one of the chambers urinated in a jug to avoid leaving and getting outvoted, I present this:



And here's the Montgomery Advertiser story.

Senate ends with a bang

Wow.

All I've got to say is: Gentlemen, for the sake of the rest of us, grow up, get your stuff together, act like the people you are supposed to be - leaders - and move this state and region forward. If you can't do it, then maybe the good people of Alabama will stop electing the same old people like yourselves and put fresh faces and minds in there who will.

Mad about Studio 60

OK, NBC's been cleaning out its stock of "Studio 60" episodes since they made the decision to pull the plug on the brillant but seldom-watched show. I've already written about this but it needs to be said again - this show was one of the best on television this year. It was smart, funny where it needed to be, serious much of the time and just a brilliant, behind-the-scenes look at how television, particularly a live sketch comedy show, lives - and sometimes - dies.
I hope this television show will get another life, maybe on NBC's sister network, USA.
Unfortunately, we live in a country where reality television - most of which is designed so we can switch off our minds - largely dominates the attention of television viewers, not well-crafted pieces of art, what "Studio 60" is.
We so soon forget that television shows are, from a business standpoint, vehicles through which advertising is sold and money is made.
Ultimately, that's all that really seems to matter in the end.

Flashing before my eyes

As I approach 40, I notice that I'm thinking more about various times in my life, a collage of various events and circumstances, some of which could have sent me down a different road than the one I find myself on now.
I'm not really doing a lot of navel-gazing, wishful thinking or even second-guessing, but just noticing the people who and things which have shaped the present.
How did I end up in a relatively small town in Mississippi?
What would life be like if this relationship went differently or I was still in that job, or ... ?
I also sense this is a journey of healing - letting go of some deep wounds and leaving some what-ifs permanently in the rear-view mirror.
I love my life on the whole and the people who are closest to me, and I'm grateful to be alive.
I think it's good from time to time to take stock on where you are, how you got there (as best as you can figure it out), where you're spending time and other resources and why and whether you need to adjust your priorities or, at least, let go of the past.
Do your work Lord and let it be to your glory. Amen.

Where is this guy and the Americans he speaks of?

OK, I know that this is a Hollywood portrayal by the late George C. Scott but from what I gather this was a real speech given by the real Gen. George S. Patton. It is approaching six minutes and 30 seconds in length, but I think it's worth a look.
The language is salty (be forewarned if you've never seen it) and he paints horrific images of warfare, but he makes this very interesting point:
“All real Americans love the sting of battle. … Americans … will not tolerate a loser. That’s why Americans have never lost and will never lose a war because the very thought of losing is hateful to Americans.”
And I do agree with his overall strategy for victory, though with not quite the same vivid sentiments.
I must say that it saddens me when I hear we’ve lost another young man or woman in battle – and the news of a combat loss is magnified when it comes out of Iraq. And I understand that there are all manner of questions about why we got there in the first place, whether we were lied to, etc.
But we are there and we need to think very carefully about how we exit – examining what kind of message it will send and precedent it will set.
I think we need to reflect on the words of this controversial yet proven American warrior as we debate our next steps in Iraq.
Do the current generations of Americans have the stomach for a protracted conflict of eight to 10 years on other shores so that, as a result, we can live in relative peace here at home, not afraid to go to the grocery store because that little Bondo-colored beater parked in front just might be a car bomb?
Are the Americans the general speaks of now mostly in nursing homes and cemeteries? Are there any in the younger generations with the determination to see something through to the end, no matter how traumatic?
The only ones I can currently think of are the men and women braving the elements and unseen risks in far-off lands such as Iraq. Let’s give them a chance to finish the job and prove to the world that there are still tough, determined and resilient Americans left.

What did we learn?

As I prepared to go into work Monday, I noticed that the death toll in the massacre at Virginia Tech was multiplying by the tens for a period of time. It took watching the convocation the next day to feel the sting of tears and sense the real – 33 lives cut horribly short, and for what?
A co-worker mentioned that we're just too busy to notice those around us - we're often too absorbed in our modern technology in some way to pick up on someone who's hurting, or to the extreme, intends to harm him or herself and others.
On Wednesday on the way home from work, I heard Disturbed cover of "Land of Confusion," originally by Genesis.

“There’s too many men
Too many people
Making too many problems
And not much love to go round
Can’t you see
This is a land of confusion.

This is the world we live in
And these are the hands we’re given
Use them and let’s start trying
To make it a place worth living in.”

These words seem like a good point of reference to start from in trying to move forward.
To some degree, people were trying to help the alleged assailant. It’s possible no amount of intervention short of locking him up would have prevented Monday’s horrific events.
But this should be a reminder to all of us to pay attention to our surroundings and those who inhabit them - whether they be online or in person.
We must be aware and vigilant about those we come in personal contact with on a daily basis. I’m not advocating we all stick our noses in each others’ business unnecessarily. But we should be mindful of those who might need our help and reach out. If the return response seems unnatural or downright troubling, then we might need to get someone else involved, at least another trusted friend, if not law enforcement or another relevant agency.
Let’s stick our heads up out of our computers and text messages long enough to make sure those around us are doing OK and not planning anything sinister or brutal.
And let’s let our friends from Virginia Tech continue to pick up the pieces of shattered lives and continue to move toward healing – hopefully a lasting one anchored in Jesus Christ. In the long term, let’s all do what we can to keep it from happening again.

A pet peeve

This is something that's gotten on my nerves for several years now.
It's a cute gimmick for a television ad, I guess, but it speaks to a potential problem - Dad is portrayed as a clueless, uninvolved idiot, leaving Mom, and even the kids, hip and wise.
Sure, Moms do a whole lot of the heavy lifting around the house and I'm grateful for what the one in my house does. But it seems as though these ads paint a sweeping picture of the American male which I pray is not reality.
If it is, then we've got a serious problem, brothers, and we've got to unite and step up to the plate.
To fend off future ad fodder, let's do the following:

• Take a look around you. Is it possible that what you're trying to make a point about is already happening in your house? If so, stop a minute and get a clue.
• Ask questions. Yes, I know this is hard, but sometimes, it's necessary.

• Find some way to involve yourself in your family's lives. Be a soccer or recital dad. It's OK.

It sure beats looking like this guy:

Why do we care?

This is a little outdated but it's something that's been rattling around inside for several weeks.
The aftermath of Anna Nicole Smith's death left a sordid mess that, apparently, the legal system is ill-equipped to straighten out.
There is isn't a celebrity death in my memory that equaled the circus quality of Smith's. The only recent comparison was that of Princess Diana, but the world's reaction carried a different tone - shock, dismay, disbelief.
Those left to claim a right to Smith's child - and her elusive fortune - made a mockery of her life, which already was fraught with complications - some self-induced, some not.
Despite her behavior in life, she should have been allowed at least a thimble-full of dignity in her death.
No such luck.
And, not long afterward, we followed Britney Spears' yo-yo rehab saga, checked out her latest tattoos and wondered aloud why she decided to go the Sinead O'Connor route with the hairstyle.
But, with Spears and Smith alike, I have to ask, why do we care?
I think it's because most of us think that those with money and fame are somehow closer to the divine than the rest of us - and we're puzzled when they act human or worse.
If we had a better understanding of the divine, we would realize that neither money, nor fame, can create spiritual enlightenment or bring us any closer to God.
The only thing money and fame seems to bring anybody is more - more stuff and often more problems.
So let's let Smith rest in peace and Spears get herself together.
Just like we'd do for anyone else.

Happy St. Patrick's Day and other stuff

OK, first off, let me explain the tag for this - gumbo.
In this sense, this post will have a smattering of all kinds of stuff that's welling up inside, so who knows what will come out?
I have some Irish descent in me somewhere, so at least I have green Post-It notes surrounding me. And as of yet, we don't have Jadyn in anything green.
But the day isn't over by a long stretch.
As I approach 40, I notice that I'm thinking more about people in my past - most often a guy I was in the Guard with named David who I haven't talked to in close to 14 years. I'm beginning to wonder if he's no longer with us - attempts to find him have led nowhere.
And there are those with whom renewed contact might be problematic, you know, past history that's too involved and complicated to bring forward into today.
But I guess I'm looking for some sort of acknowledgment that despite the challenges and struggles - and even my own self-defeating flaws - that I've somehow made a difference, or succeeded in life. Not to say that I've arrived, or that I'm perfect, but that I'm on the right path.
But in realizing that this is what I'm doing, I think I've unearthed a tremendous lack of faith.
Do I have to keep going if I never hear an attaboy? Yes.
"Well done, my good and faithful servant."
That's the one I want to hear. I guess it's selfish and self-centered to look for others along the way.
Am I where I'm supposed to be with the people I'm supposed to be with?
That, in and of itself, is a lack of trust, I suspect.
In most everything we sense, we think we're hitting the mark, overall. But ...
In my upbringing, a sense of doubt found its way into my thinking. It's something that's plagued me my entire life.
Very few things cross my path in which I don't second-guess my ability to handle them.
It's very debilitating and I'm learning - day by day - to overcome it.
A prayer shared by U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., which House Chaplain Daniel Coughlin used in a prayer service near the opening of the current Congress in January, seems to fit.
It is attributed to the late Mychal Judge, the New York City Fire Department chaplain who died when the South Tower collapsed and sent debris into the North Tower on Sept. 11, 2001.
It reads: "Lord, tell me where You want me to go, Let me meet who You want me to meet, Tell me what You want me to say, And keep me out of Your way."
It is my prayer that I live out this one.

Making sense of what doesn't make sense

Less than nine months ago, my family stood in line in the lobby of Hillcrest Baptist Church along with dozens of other people to visit the family of Chris and Leah Walls (see previous posts) and file past the caskets containing their remains and those of their children.
We waited in line with a whole lot of people who didn't know us from Adam and probably wondered aloud why in the world would we bring a nine-month-old to a visitation.
Somehow, probably, we hoped Leah would see the child she'd prayed would come our way. We certainly wanted her family to know how much her support meant.
As I watched the footage roll in from Enterprise, Ala., Thursday, I noticed the unmistakable roof line of a modest-size, brick building which looked like a church. A map search confirmed what I thought - Hillcrest was again at the center of a tragedy, only this time, much bigger in scope at least in the number of people killed.
I think back now to the faces of the people I stood in line with on that balmy Friday night in southeast Alabama and I wonder - Are these now grieving grandparents, or intended rescuers who only found bodies or people who reunited a child and a parent or friends who are now turning to one another for comfort?
Did the Walls' deaths somehow prepare this town for even more sorrow? Is that even possible? Am I still grasping for something which will make their loss make sense? Yes, very likely.
But in both sets of circumstances, I continue to pray the Lord will do his bidding in these times of uncertainty and grief and that the sense of community I felt in that church would extend beyond its walls to a hurting Enterprise.
And I pray that the well-meaning people who've pulled satellite trucks to this community would do more than report about the horror. Maybe when the feed is offline, you could help someone lift a board, or listen - off-the-record - to a hurting family, or give a cup of water to those working the scene. They need more than 15 seconds of fame in Enterprise right now.
These are hard-working, dedicated, God-fearing, salt-of-the-earth people who probably don't respond well to pity. But they will listen to a helping hand. Let's all do what we can for these folks, even if for now it's just to pray.

Studio 60

OK, for my handful of readers, a tidbit to tide you over until I have more time!
Another decent show apparently may not come back to the Peacock network - "Studio 60." Yes, the writers bashed a pretend version of the American Family Association for effectively squelching creativity. But they also developed a central character, Harriet Hayes, who is a believing Christian, to balance it out.
I thought it was brilliantly written and well acted, particularly by Matthew Perry. I forgot about Chandler Bing.
I tend to like shows which often don't make it out of the first year and they tend to be those with some thought and effort behind the work. "E-Ring" was another one.
Fortunately one exception is "My Name is Earl."
Anyway, I hope they bring back "Studio 60" but it looks doubtful from what I hear. Maybe the next show I latch on to will actually stay on beyond one season!

Riding the train

OK, a regular viewer of this blog says that sometimes I'm guarded in what I say.
I guess I've heard too many stories about being fired for what you say on your blog and I'm a little leery of that.
I'm not prone to hurt people's feelings typically, unless I'm on some kind of tear about something.
I've been hurt myself and it feels like crap.
But the train known as blogging is pulling out of the station, and it's time this wordsmith jumped fully on board.
I've seen an online magazine where they have a whole bunch of bloggers - from what I could see that's all they do. The famous (infamous?) "dooce" makes a living off hers. The new leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives held a specific "press" conference for bloggers.
The future is here and it's high time we acknowledged it.
I don't know what I'm promising except hopefully more frequent posts and possibly developing a real passion for the medium. I want to push the technology envelope! And the unfortunate part of making a name for yourself is promoting yourself, something that is somewhat foreign to me.
But I guess we have to do what we have to do to move forward.
All aboard?

It will be strange

As I write this, the rock band Rush is in its final stages of mixing its 18th full-length studio album with an anticipated release time of late April or early May.
Yes, I've been listening to a lot of old Rush lately to get ready and pouncing on any new information floating out there in cyberspace.
What will be hard about this release is that Amanda and I won't have Chris Walls with whom to talk to about it. We last saw Chris alive when he, Amanda, another friend of his and I went to see Rush in Nashville, Tenn. on the opening show of their 30th anniversary tour in May '04.
We often talked about Rush - a likely strong influence on his desire to drum - when we got together. (Rush's drummer and lyricist Neil Peart is considered by many one of the best percussionists in the recorded world.)
If we do get to see Rush on this tour, possibly one of their last, it will be difficult emotionally for at least part of it, especially Neil's solo, which is usually mind-blowing.
As we awaited official word of Chris' death on a Saturday in June, I listened to a disc of an old Rush show and sobbed. Amanda mentioned said it today - it won't be the same when the new album comes out. She sure is right.
We aren't the same people because of Chris and Leah - they inspired us to take risks and dream big. They put some distance between themselves and the familiar to move to Nashville for an undetermined outcome, then did the same when they moved to Arizona.
While we haven't reached our potential (who really does?), we were motivated to some degree by them to step out where the ground is uncertain and the people are unfamiliar. In coming to this region of Mississippi, we did exactly that. That's something that just isn't normally part of who I am.
But we're living in a previously uncharted part of the world for us, and for the most part, enjoying it. Having a child like Jadyn and some of our closer friends around sure helps.
So, when the Rush album comes out, there are a few people around who care and who I hopefully won't bore to tears as I break it down, piece by piece, and put it back together again to understand the meaning of the lyrics and the musical structure of the songs. I hope they'll pardon me as they fill in for Chris.
Here's hoping that somehow, someday, Amanda and I will have some kind of lasting influence on those around us (like Chris and Leah did for us), and that they won't only remember us, but Jesus Christ above all.

Can a sports victory help heal a city?

In my last blog about the University of Alabama's hiring of Nick Saban, I wondered what actual good a national championship would bring the university and the state. I still ponder that question, especially when looking at the price tag of Saban's salary.
However, I look at the circumstances New Orleans finds itself in and I have to raise a question on the opposite of the coin - could a Super Bowl win do this city some good?
I think on the whole the answer is a resounding 'Yes.'
It still concerns me that the Superdome was merely cleaned up and repaired after Hurricane Katrina, not bulldozed in memory of those who died within its walls. And winning the Super Bowl won't fully cure the ills which led to nine murders less than two weeks into the new year.
But it certainly gives people there something else - something fun and exciting to think about - and it could help them think they can succeed in their own struggles to rebuild and overcome.

Saban the best for last?

A friend sent me an e-mail of another friend's blog about the prospect - now reality - that Nick Saban would leave the Miami Dolphins to become the latest to jump off the coaching merry-go-round and land in Tuscaloosa.
The friend who wrote the post pretty much bashed the whole thing, including the apparently misleading statements Saban made about not wanting the job, yet considering and now accepting it.
I am an Alabama fan, and this may come as a surprise to the person who sent the blog to me, but I don't see much with which to disagree.
The desire to win a national championship again at Alabama is manifesting itself like some kind of strange virus.

It makes otherwise rational people do irrational things, like offer a coach who hasn't stayed put very long a GUARANTEED $32 million over eight years and turn loose a guy who was loyal by default over two losses - those to Mississippi State and Auburn.
It also makes ordinary citizens drive to the Tuscaloosa airport and wait for the new coach to arrive - bringing an image akin to those awaiting an exiled leader of a nation in turmoil to return from his exodus and restore order.
How quickly we forget that another previous coach found his "dream job" was calling him to Texas just a few short years ago. Who's to say this new savior won't pull the ripcord in his contract in three years and leave everyone disillusioned again? Only this time, he'll leave us closer to bankruptcy.

As my friend mentions, the state of Alabama consistently ranks near the bottom in quality of life issues.
Sure, much of the money Alabama has at its disposal to run its athletic program is from sources like ticket sales and private donations - not taxpayer money. But it still could be used elsewhere - a 13th national championship will do little more than give us a short-lived swelling of pride. Granted, it would be fun. I still have memorabilia from the 1992 title. But it won't fix roads, mend racial fences, heal the sick or educate a community.
Another acquaintance of mine mentioned recently that Paul "Bear" Bryant himself couldn't measure up to the pressure those currently in charge - whomever they may be - place on the job. I think he's absolutely right.
I'm willing to give Saban - and those who wanted him so badly they figuratively mortgaged the farm - a chance.
I hope they're right.
And I hope that $32 million is somehow worth the investment.
Somehow.

Update and Amen

I know it's been quite some time since I've posted something and for those of you recently steered here, welcome! I don't post much very often. I guess sometimes the day to day seems to be boring material for a mass audience.
But then William Hung got famous for being awful.
We'll see. But little victories like making a business phone call I've either procrastinated on or just haven't had time for doesn't seem blog-worthy. Maybe it is. At least that's what Time magazine says.
I woke rested this morning. Maybe I did so because the baby monitor isn't needed while Jadyn and Amanda are in Pennsylvania. Regardless, I wish they were here. But they are doing what they need to do and by the grace of God they'll be back soon. In the mean time, Amanda left me a very well crafted honey-do list in preparation for Christmas which I hope to make headway on tonight.
OK, here's the Amen part:
Jack Valenti wrote a great piece about the sacrifice of his generation and that it seems lost on the current, younger crowd. This is what bothers me about the ambivalence we see about the current overall War on Terror.
He nails it.
Technical difficulties prevent me from posting a link, but I will paste the text below so you can cut, paste and hopefully see it.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/usatoday/20061221/cm_usatoday/doesthenextgenerationvaluethesacrificeofwar
And if we don't get a chance to do so again, Merry Christmas!

Stuff

Jadyn is still sick (I may not have mentioned this before but she's been battling a cold for more than two weeks), so she's on another round of medicine. We hope she gets over her cold/ear infection soon.
She's coughing as I type.
Anyway, it's been a good day overall. Kind of dragged through the day with a little bit of a cold too.
Amanda's sick some also.
Looks like we're in for a major change in the weather. We'll see. Highs in the 70s are a little odd for late November, even in the South.
Well, it's time to hit the hay.
Later!

Not sure what to write

And here we are again near the end of the night and I'm trying to figure out what to write. What I can say about the day is hard to put into words sometimes.
But I know that Jadyn went through some rough patches during the day, and so did Mommy.
I'm learning how to understand that what happens at home is sometimes really hard on Amanda and sometimes I'm not sensitive enough to that.
Parenthood is at once one of the most rewarding and challenging parts of life.
In the end I pray we raise a daughter who loves Jesus, knows who she is, is able to navigate the world with grace and wisdom and hopefully raise a family of her own with a loving, wise husband.
'Night!

Early to bed ...

Well, 10:30 is early for us these days, but neither Amanda nor I slept well last night.
(Betcha can't guess whether I went to the gym, huh?)
My eyelids are flittering shut every so often.
Guess there's nothing much to report otherwise except that Jadyn amazes us every day. We're grateful she's in our lives.
Got another early start to the day tomorrow. Later!

Tick tock

Here's another short entry in my feeble, unofficial attempt to participate in NaBloPoMo.
When we can take a nap on a Sunday after church AND get something done, that's pretty amazing.
I've been feeling pretty good lately after getting to the gym twice this week for the first time in five months.
Working out really makes a difference on all sorts of levels.
I'm up pretty late tonight so I don't know how it's going to work but hopefully I can get up and get in gear in the a.m.

Ooops!

Well, since I was late getting started anyway, I don't think it matters that I skipped Friday in blogging. It just slipped my mind.
OK, Michael Richards shouldn't have said what he said and maybe he should have thought twice about getting frustrated with his hecklers in the way he did. But everybody makes mistakes and he should be given a second chance.
They even got Kenny Kramer, the real person his Seinfeld character was based on, to weigh in on the subject, and what he said in an Associated Press story was really funny:
"You know what the good news is?" he asked. "Judith Regan is now on a plane to California, trying to sign Michael Richards to a book deal: 'If I Were a Racist, Here's What I Would Have Said.'"
That's a reference to the OJ Simpson book deal, in case you don't know.

Thanksgiving

We had a good time with some folks from church and just kind of hung out at home later. Jadyn's still getting over her cold.
I think about the family members I've spent Thanksgiving with who are now gone, but I know that I have family who now still love us, care for us and are glad we are here. For that, I am grateful.
I'm grateful we've had another day to at least learn how to live a life of gratitude, and, hopefully, faithfulness.

Life stuff

Just spent a bunch of money we didn't have on my old truck. Hope we can get some return on our investment. But when you need to get to and from work, then to and from other places from work, you kinda have to have a vehicle!
But I am thankful I live in a country where I am relatively free to walk down the street, talk to whom I want, hang out with whom I want and generally live life the way I see fit.
I am thankful I have a wife and daughter who love me - they prove it every day, a job, friends and family who care. I'm glad I'm alive and I'm glad I'm coming to know Jesus Christ over the years.
Well, it's time to work on a few other things before bedtime.
I'm looking forward to Jadyn's second Thanksgiving.
Night!

Wo' out!

Boy it's been a long day.
I forgot what time it started. Now I remember: Just before 6.
It's time to hit the sack.
But before I go: My old reliable truck's clutch went out on me, Jadyn's getting sick again and Amanda wasn't feeling so hot today either. Just had a bumpy day.
We'll get through it by the grace of God.
Good night!

The Roofus Chronicles, Part I

Roofus was a solid black cat my mother found - literally on a roof - just on the edge of downtown Montgomery around April 1992. He'd been basically a stray neighborhood cat who probably lived off the land and the kindness of strangers, like Mom.
We think he was about a year old when she found him.
She kept him for a few weeks and decided to send him home with me, which was, at the time, in a bayside apartment in Daphne, Ala.
Roofus was a pretty determined animal most of the time. One time, in Daphne, he crawled under the sink and may have found his way to the bathroom, which had one of those big tubs with jacuzzi jets.
Yes, I miss that tub.
But I digress.
Roofus would decide on occaision to go outside. Actually, he clawed a spot in the carpet near the front door and I think I caved more often than not just to get the clawing to stop - or at least pause.
He found his way into the hearts - and doors - of several neighbors.
Roofus was a fiesty little guy and there were times I would have to get a blanket and toss it over him temporarily to get him inside.
More Roofus chronicles at another time.

Exhausted

Been an exhausting day.
Fun for most of it, but still some things left to finish before I turn in for the evening.
Raking leaves was pretty enjoyable for the most part. It helped when I got the blower working.
That's it for now. Will try to blog more tomorrow.

IT'S A GAME SYSTEM, PEOPLE!

The PS3 release caused several episodes of mayhem across the land, including one shooting incident.
If this is supposed to be part of the Christmas shopping season, can this be any further removed from the spirit of the season?
Apparently one set of alleged criminals thought the PS3 crowd was a great robbery target. One guy refused to give them money and he got shot.
This is one of those cases where you have to wonder out loud what this world is coming to. So what if somebody doesn't get one of the 400,000 PS3s on the market. Is it really going to be that big a deal?
Please, let's reason together. This is NOT that big a deal on the grand sceme.
This holiday season, if you think there's something worth standing in line for hours - potentially risking your life - to buy, please think again.

The day and other stuff

I'm trying to loosen up here and splatter my thoughts across the Internet. I'm one of those people who want to be read and seen by the whole world but don't want to make a mess that might take me years to straighten out. You know, like getting dooced or creating other work problems or making a friend mad at me for near perpetuity.
Anyway, please bear with me and keep reading.
We spent some of the day at a friend's child's birthday party. I got the oil changed in Amanda's vehicle. Boy, those oil change places LOVE to upsell you. Of course I didn't go for it.
The girls at the Chinese restaurant smothered Jadyn with attention and love. It was too cute!
After we got settled back in at the house and watched some TIVO'ed stuff. Yes, we love TIVOing stuff. We don't feel chained to the tube and we can actually enjoy certain shows and not be tied to a schedule. We're also trying to limit Jadyn's TV intake and get off our butts and do things like exercise and things on the aging to-do list. TIVO is really worth the money.
Then, we took a HUGE nap and we're still running at this late hour without being too tired. OK, I'll speak for myself on that one. I've been averaging five and a half hours of sleep and it's starting to catch up to me.
Got to catch up with someone I haven't talked to in years, seems more like eras.
Watched the movie "Cars." It's great! It's worth a look-see.
Ordering food off the Internet is totally awesome! Get the door. It's Domino's!
So, I was going to blog about something tonight and I forgot what that was.
I've got a Roofus blog in mind for sometime later this month.
OK, for those of you who talk to me in person, this probably looks like a normal conversation with me. I'm working moving toward that.
Please bear with me.
Oh yes! The blog thought. That's another post. Give me a minute.

Blogging ...

Can be difficult when you know that is this isn't private space but is rather globally distributed at the click of a mouse.
Yet, this is a place to vent, relax and be yourself. Not when you're not entirely sure who you are and whether you wonder if you can or should rely on what you know.
Self-editing can create as many or more problems as not being able to communicate feelings.
But "feelings" are probably not what you stopped by for.
There are a number of things I want to blog about, but am restrained not to do so for now.
Maybe the freedom to write on these subjects will present itself soon.

Iron Bowl
I've been talking to people about how the Alabama-Auburn game in Alabama is more than just a football game. It is, in and of itself, a way of life. This is not just a rivalry between current and former students of a school.
I've watched traffic in Montgomery dwindle to just a handful of people who just happened to be out, or were passing through town, oblivious to the gridiron battle raging somewhere in the state (between Auburn, Tuscaloosa or, at one time Birmingham).
This game's intensity has little to do with its national title implications. These schools could be 3-8 heading into tomorrow, but the game would still mean a great deal.
It has the potiential to be a job-breaker for coaches.
Well, it's almost midnight and we have to be up relatively early in the morning. Later!

A lot on my mind

So far so good on the blogging for days. I know it doesn't count but that's OK.
Hurting a little for my hometown. I've done service work in the apartment complex where a top floor is gone from one of the buildings in Montgomery.
I bought hundreds of gallons of gas at a convenience store across the street from the skating rink which looks like somebody crumpled it by hand. Thank God the loss of life was limited.

The election
As I try to approach politics from a standpoint of fairness, I want to limit what I say about the results of this month's general election. But I will say that I believe that anything that smells like a withdrawal or a curtailing of our actions in Iraq will look to some in the Middle East as if we are weakening.
I'm concerned they'll see this as an opportune time to attack again. Do I wish for it? Absolutely not!
Revamp the strategy? Yes. Involve a greater number of troops? More than likely. Start a noticeable pullback within the next several months?
Not a good idea.
Sure, it sounds like re-packaging of some bad policy decisions, but I think there's some merit in the notion that the fight in Iraq is the front line in the War on Terror.
Do we want it in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Manchester, Tenn. or Bakersfield, Calif., just to name some towns in America at random? I think not.
I pray that our leaders understand that a misstep now in the War on Terror could have grave consequences for our nation and that any change in course they make is with due diligence.

Almost forgot

Need to get up relatively early in the morning, but I thought I would go ahead and get the blog in quick.
Ran out to the Post Office tonight and they did not have stamps that I could buy with under $4. This is also the post office that does not collect mail after 4 p.m. (I think that is right) on Saturday. Guess I have still got to get adjusted to living in a small town.
For some reason blogger will not let me do contractions tonight. Oh well. I can live.
Life is not all bad.
That is certainly the case here, where we did not get any severe weather that we are aware of.
But back in my hometown of Montgomery, an apartment complex and a skating rink, which also included a day care center, were severely damaged. Some of the children in the center were trapped but only a few were injured. I do not think any were hurt seriously.
Gotta hit the sack. Later!

Up way too late

Gotta get to bed soon while the gettin's good. We've got some severe weather rolling through here and I'd better get as much sleep as I can get.
Lighting flashes outside the window tell me I've had the computer on way too long. No sense in risking it.
Today was overall a good day. Jadyn really looks like she grows some everyday. She's really an amazing little girl and we really are fortunate to have her.
Well, better go. Good night!

Rent

My wife and I saw the "rock opera" (the term which best describes it) Rent Sunday night in Birmingham, Ala.
While I have reservations about one particular song, I find the whole thing a carefully-crafted masterpiece from a man whose potential seemed limitless. We've learned to find out that Johnathan Larson died of an apparent aortic anurysm the day of "Rent's" final rehearsal. Wow - what this man could have accomplished.
But he's left behind an amazing work portrayed by people who understand and love his words and music.
For the uninitiated, "Rent" is a story which revolves around a handful of friends in New York City sometime in the late 1980s, when the nation was coming to terms with the AIDS epidemic.
Several of the main characters are HIV-positive. Ironic we saw the musical in the city where some of the most advanced AIDS research may be still taking place.
The theme "Rent" comes from the double meaning of paying an indebtedness, i.e., rent, and the concept of something being torn, or 'rent.' The friends go through quite a lot of tearing.
"No day but today."
It's a pretty plain message for any one.

More stuff

Well, it looks like my blogging into the rest of the month won't count since I didn't start on the 1st. Oh well, at least people may see my stuff and I'll get in the hang of updating it more.
Maybe.
Going to bed after at nearly 1 a.m. and waking up at 7 is kind of like having a hangover without - in this case - doing anything one normally does to GET a hangover.
We must up and at 'em here shortly. So I'll try to give this blog a little more substance a little later in the week. But I will try to give the readers - however few there may be - something every day until we hit December.
So enjoy!

This is what I'm talking about

Joining the crowd

OK, I'm going to join the crowd, since my blog tends toward the unwritten.
The crowd I'm speaking of is the one blogging every day in November.
First off, I'll start with an appropriate salute to our fighting men - and women here on Veterans' Day. As an AP story circulating today aptly points out, the enemy doesn't particularly care who's standing around when they launch an attack.
It sounds trite, but it's true: Their sacrifices keep us a largely free nation who can, for the most part, make its own decisions about its course.
Americans in combat today deserve our full support, regardless of our feelings about the conflicts they find themselves in or the politicians who sent them. We should always welcome home our military men and women with open arms and full hearts.
I do pray that our nation's defense contractors will continue to find ways to shield them from harm as they do their duties with better, stronger protective gear and clothing, explosive detection devices and other helping tools.
May God bless all our veterans - past and present - and remember those who've paid the ultimate price with their lives.

Been thinking

This week, Amanda went in to get a kidney stone broken up. While the procedure was routine and she's doing well aside from some pain, it got me thinking about my life. As a teen, I had a hard time fitting in and I thought about the people who tried to reach through and/or had an impact whether they were trying or not.
I've also thought about people I wish I could find again and stay in touch with.
But I am grateful for those who are sticking with us today in spite of our flaws and foibles and love us anyway. I also pray we can do this for others.
More later.

Insomnia, Mexico and Roofus

The mention of our southern neighbor comes with part of the chorus from the old James Taylor song called "Mexico" stuck in my head. "Ooooh Mexico." That's about all I remember about it.
Well, Mexican food is one of the reasons I'm blogging at this hour. Enough said.
But the other reason is a cat named Roofus. I need to regale Blogdom with the tales of Roofus. As you read the stories, he may sound mythical. But he was a real, black cat who lived from around 1991 to March 1999.
He was the most intelligent cat I've come across to date.
Since I don't want to stay up until the alarm clock goes off, I'll just share a little bit about "Roofy". First, my Mom found him on the roof of a house - hence the name. He was a neighborhood cat who lived off the land, and the kindness of people like Mom.
She took him in and gave him to me, and he became my roommate in my bachelor pad overlooking Mobile Bay. He was an instant hit with some of the neighbors. He had a way of charming his way into many a heart even though he could be a bit on the rough and tumble side too. (Remember to tell them about how you'd get him back in the house when he was little.)
But somewhere along about 1993, when we lived in Talladega, Ala., he got into this habit: He'd wake up about 4 a.m. and want to go outside. Almost every day, without fail.
So now, when I have to get up and go to the rest room, it's usually sometime within an hour of 4 a.m.
The power of habit is amazing, especially when it's set by a cat.

The upcoming birthday ...

Has been on my mind a bit lately. And please, this is not a fish for presents or anything, just thoughts about hitting a near milestone and not really sure how to feel about it.
Parts of my life don't give away the fact that I'm closing in on 39. I don't sense that I'm that old. Having a 1-year-old probably helps.
I do think about my folks sometimes. I don't think my Dad had any parents still alive by this age, though my grandmother might have passed just before he reached it.
The best I think I can do for Jadyn is tell her what I think they'd have said to her, and tell her about their work ethics, concern for family and friends, funny stories, anecdotes and anything else important. Most of all, I know they'd love her and express it in the best ways they could.
I'm glad we have Amanda's folks and all of our extended family, to include those who are family by birth and marriage and the others by unofficial adoption, to love on her and help us raise her.
I think this brief bout of insomnia is over. Back to bed.

Warning - this is pretty random

Been hanging out on another blog/friend site more recently, playing around with the technology, etc.
Still missing our friends.
We think about them at least once a week it seems.
Amanda and I were talking tonight about how strange it is to think about people their ages and realize that we won't be able to talk to them again in this lifetime.
In other stuff:
We're hoping to start unpacking the new house more soon, but seems like we haven't had the energy or time to think about such lately.
Our daughter keeps growing and we absolutely adore her.
Sometimes we feel like we're just Jadyn's parents, but that's how it goes sometimes.
Wow, it's late.
Gotta do some weekend stuff in the morning before the weekend's up.
Later!

News from the hometown

Had to restart this from scratch on a short-time frame before bed.
Please read the links then my explanation.
Good news

Bad news

From what I know, the community has supported the Montgomery Biscuits since the franchise arrived in the city in 2004. I believe the same energy used to support a baseball team can be used to help prevent another senseless death like the one described in the "bad news" link. The "bad news" hits home on lots of levels - we love children and want the best chance for them, and this child was discovered less than two blocks from my childhood home. Let's pray this sort of thing never happens again in or around Montgomery, or anywhere for that matter.

9/11 and AFA

"As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!"
Galatians 5:12 (NIV)
I was at a college ministry conference in Alabama about 15 years ago when I came across this verse and understood how Paul felt about those who were so adamant about circumcision as something that Christians should continue to do.
I was shocked that something so offense found its way into the Bible - I thought we just didn't talk about those kinds of things if we were "decent" Christians.
Sometimes, using or allowing strong language is appropriate under limited circumstances.
In recent days, the American Family Association has threatened a massive action against CBS stations who, in the coming days, re-air "9/11," the amazing documentary filmed as the horrific events of that day unfolded.
In this documentary, there are segments in which some of those pictured use foul language. I've seen much of this documentary and don't remember what words are said and in what context.
I can imagine the most upright of us uttering - uncontrollably - some pretty indecent words at the sights these men and women witnessed.
While I certainly agree our airwaves shouldn't be cluttered with filth, such as gratuitous sex, violence and language, these are genuine people sharing their raw emotions about a real event.
I've also felt the same way about "Saving Private Ryan." Though fictional in its basic storyline, it is historic fiction - a film using the device of a fictional character and set of circumstances to tell a real story - a story about courageous men who bled, fought and died for the freedom of this nation and others.
Soldiers cuss - it's a fact of life. That doesn't diminish their service one bit.
Many of those who answered the call to One and Two World Trade Center - unwittingly - gave their lives so that others may live. Our tendency is to sanitize and make things pretty which aren't.
Sept. 11, 2001 was, simultaneously, one of the darkest and most glorious days in this nation's history.
Frequent disclaimers should be sufficient warning to let "9/11" run as it was first assembled.
I say let it fly.

Belated condolences

I just discovered last night that retired U.S. Army Col. David Hackworth died in May 2005. "Hack," as many knew him, was an outspoken critic of the way the military handled the situation in Vietnam, and later the conduct of our campaign in Iraq. Over the years, he earned both criticism and praise. But in the end, he was one of the most decorated veterans this nation has seen in some time and showed his care and concern for the common soldier.
He provided an example of leadership and his legacy will remain for many years to come.

My July post in August

I find myself once again trying to reclaim my miniscule readership with another heartfelt apology and a feeble attempt to put something else out there for blogdom.
Bloggers who post infrequently and randomly aren't usually the ones who get noticed. That's not why I'm doing this, is it?
I must say that I do enjoy reading other blogs (Here's a shout out to Amanda Johnson in Texas!) In my blogging, I am attempting a moderate amount of anonymity, so I don't put everything out there. However, frequency and interesting material helps maintain readership.
So here's a rough recap of July. We:

• Continued bonding with a great group of friends who shoulder each other's burdens and really seem to give a rip when the sea gets choppy and got new perspective on what friendship means.
• With lots of help, hauled most of our earthly possessions across town.
• Went through some stuff we hope we never face again. Trust me - this statement covers several events we wouldn't wish on anyone.
• Watched our daughter grow, start forming some basic words and even move toward walking.
• Started walking through some transitional phases of life with some friends and we're hanging in there together.
• Felt like even simple things were hard to accomplish, like communicating and changing a burned-out turn signal bulb.

So far in August, we:

• Wish the Lord would send some rain and turn down the thermostat just a hair.
• Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
• Hope our daughter will be prepared whether or not conditions improve in her time here on Earth before Jesus' return.
• Finally feel like we're not trying to walk in mud.
• Still think about Chris, Leah and the kids and find it odd to speak of them in the past tense.

That should get things kicked off for the month, except an explanation about the new tagline. While there are some things about the band "Drive-by Truckers" which curl my hair, I will say they sometimes have an uncanny grasp of the truth. What's more, they don't mind sharing it. A co-worker has introduced me to their work, concentrating on their album "Southern Rock Opera." It's an interesting look at Lynyrd Skynyrd, political and racial issues, and the world with and without the band. The line comes from the song "Shut Up and Get on the Plane," which talks matter-of-factly about death. Several band members died in a plane crash in 1977 outside McComb, Miss. The line is relevant to me because overcoming fear of all sorts is a challenge I'm growing regularly toward facing and conquering, by the grace of God.

Farewell for now

Those who knew Chris, Leah, Miller and Mallory Walls - or at least their families - filled Hillcrest Baptist Church in Enterprise, Ala. Saturday.
Some traveled at least as far as Arizona to pay their respects. Others drove from other locations throughout the Southeast, including Mississippi and Tennessee.
The reality of the loss seemed distant until funeral home personnel wheeled the four caskets - including two small ones - out of the sanctuary and the searing pain became evident on the faces of those left behind.
Mourners loaded up in their cars and rode several miles to the four donated plots where the Walls' earthly bodies rest for the time being.
Drivers stopped for the processional.
Some got out to pay their respects, with one man holding his bright orange Tennessee hat over his heart.
A police officer stood at attention while keeping other traffic at bay.
Enterprise noted its loss in fine fashion, and we're trusting Heaven responded in kind on receipt of these four souls.
Singing "You give and take away ... My heart will choose to say blessed be your name" in church today brought on a whole new meaning, and, of course, tears. I want to trust and believe the Lord in this our loss, but it's hard for both Amanda and I to accept that we won't be able to converse with our friends until we see them again.
They inspired us to reach beyond the norm. Amanda started painting several years ago. She had some emotions she wanted to express through art and Leah told her to go for it.
Chris and Leah both patiently listened and encouraged us as we sought the Lord's direction in the possibility of moving to Franklin, Tenn.
During this soul-searching, we got the amazing privilege to arrive in time to see Mallory enter the world from a downtown Nashville hospital.
I watched in awe as Chris pursued his dream to become a professional drummer and later, developed a record label.
Leah's art had a personal touch which went beyond her formal training and expressed her personality - warm, welcoming and full of life.
This family had a place in our aforementioned hodge-podge extended family.
We will miss them and hang on to the memories we have of them, pledging to make new ones with the friends and family we have left.
And, most importantly, we're praying that those we know will eventually come to know Jesus Christ, the One who makes bearable this otherwise unimaginable loss.
For more on the lessons we've learned from this, please see Amanda's blog by following the link "Amanda's blog (Upheaval in Mississippi)".

Last post for the night

Nothing major new to report. Phoenix television station websites have videotape of reports from the scene and may have updated their reporting through the evening.
We're running on adrenaline and that's about gone.
Will pass along, either here or through other means, any important details to share.
We last saw them when Chris, Amanda and I went with another friend of the family to see Rush in Nashville on the opening show of their 30th anniversary tour.
Chris and I were both huge Rush fans.
Of course, we still love the faith these two operated by, which led them to Phoenix.
Before I post the more serious things, Chris knew Amanda and I by our nicknames: "Paulina Poriskova (sp?)" for me and "(E)mand(er) Holyfield." I'm sure his nickname for Jadyn would've been just as humorous.
Here are some scriptures and some lines from a fitting Rush song, "Afterimage":
“Suddenly, you were gone
From all the lives you left your mark upon …
This is something that just can't be understood
I learned your love for life,
I feel the way that you would
I feel your presence
I remember

I feel the way you would

This just can't be understood... .”

Isaiah 26:3:

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you."

Proverbs 3:5:
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."

In memory of Chris, Leah, Miller and Mallory Walls

Details on this post may be disturbing to some readers:
Chris, Leah, Miller and Mallory Walls died in a two-vehicle accident around 4:15 p.m. MDT Friday, June 16 in metro Phoenix, Ariz.
According to various media reports, the family was on its way to a church service at Desert Life Church in Scottsdale, Ariz. They were stopped at an intersection in their Mazda MPV when a Chrysler Pacifica, driven by Haluk Kandas, 29, of Phoenix left an exit ramp going 65-70 mph and rear-ended the van. The vehicle eventually caught fire.
It is unclear exactly how the family died.
Chris and Leah were 36 and 34 respectively. Miller and Mallory were each approximately 7 and 5 respectively.
Chris had a wonderful entrepreneurial spirit and Leah was an amazing artist. They loved their children immensely and desired to serve Jesus Christ with their lives and talents.
We knew them from our days at Christ Community Church in Montgomery, Ala. and continued to stay in contact with them after they relocated to metro Nashville, Tenn. several years ago. They moved to Phoenix within the last 18 months. We last saw them in May 2004.
Those who wish may contact me via e-mail for further details. We hope to know more about funeral arrangements in the near future. I hope someone is able to post their works for the world to see. We pray that in their deaths and through their amazing gifts people will come to know Christ.

Update

Until we know something official, I'd prefer not to say anything about what's going on, but we've spent about the last two and a half hours trying to track down relatives of some friends of ours. We will post updates and details when things are verified. Amanda and I have done just about everything we can do, so we're going to finish up what we can and try to get some sleep.
Emphasis on try.
Thanks for your prayers and support.

Emergency prayer request

Amanda and I are trying to help locate the relatives of some friends at this writing. We don't know why, but we are in the middle of this and will pursue until we can bring some resolution.

Some of my favorite actors

Been thinking about doing this for awhile, at least for myself, but I've decided to share it with blogdom. Recently, I've been basing decisions on whether to see a movie if certain people are in it. Example: I went to see "The DaVinci Code" in part because Audrey Tautou and Jean Reno were in the supporting cast.
This is not in any particular order and I'm sure there are more I'm not thinking about right now. If you want to know more about these people, I would suggest a visit to:
http://www.imdb.com/
And hey, you can help build a little bit of community here by sharing some of your own favorite actors, either on your blog or by posting a comment.
Don Cheadle - Does almost everything with a panache that isn't overstated.
Audrey Tautou - It's quirky and at times, has suggestive material, but loved her in Amelie.
Jean Reno - Sold me in "The Professional," aka "Leon."
Natalie Portman - She's great in almost everything she does.
Tony Shaloub - "Blufftoni!" "Blufftoni!" Some of his lines from "Quick Change," in which he plays an immigrant trying to say that some people got on a bus. OK, you'll just have to see it. And he's super in "Men in Black." And he's Monk.
Vincent D'Onofrio - "The Edgar Suit" in "Men in Black." And he messes with peoples' heads in "Law and Order:CI." He was in "Full Metal Jacket," which I didn't realize.
R. Lee Ermey - Is usually funny when he's not playing a drill instructor, but he's dynamite in his military roles.
Andre Braugher - Sold me in "Homicide: Life on the Street," one of the best cop shows ever. Dug him tremendously in "Frequency."
Tim Meadows - An enormously talented actor whom I'm rooting for in his post-"Saturday Night Live" success.
Liev Schreiber - A great actor whose voiceovers are even better. He's narrated several things including "Mantle," an HBO feature on Mickey Mantle that's simply outstanding.
Pretty much all the "Seinfeld" bunch - Jason Alexander, Michael Richards, Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Plus Jerry Stiller. He absolutely cracks me up. Richards has to be one of my favorite physical comedians.
Helen Hunt - Loved her and Paul Reiser in "Mad about You." She's another one who has just a magic touch in her performances.
Tom Hanks - He's a default major actor; I like almost everything he's ever played in that I've seen, including my favorite movie, "Saving Private Ryan."
Stephen Root - He's Bill delaTour Dauterive on "King of the Hill," Milton in "Office Space" ("I do believe you have my stapler.") and an absolute stitch at almost everything he's done.
All the main actors from "The Drew Carey Show." -
Drew Carey, Ryan Stiles (Lewis), Diedrich Bader (Oswald - also awesome in "Office Space"), Christa Miller (Kate), Kathy Kinney (Mimi) and Craig Ferguson (Mr. Wick).
The deceased:
Chris Farley: "I live in a van down by the river."
Phil Hartman: Just a jewel.
John Belushi: He was John Belushi.
That's it for now. Gotta get to some of those chores. Later

Batchelor life

Not used to not having Amanda and Jadyn around.
Yes, I'm kind of bored, and Hershey (our dog) is almost sound asleep at 10:30 a.m., but I have plenty of chores to keep me occupied and, who knows? I may go see a movie tonight.
Jadyn made her first cross-country flight earlier this week to see Amanda's grandfather, who recently fell ill. I'm hoping we'll see some pictures of the trip at least by the time they return next week.
I've had time to clean out the truck and did so before it got too hot - it's supposed to go to 97 the next two days and it's already 90 outside. Thank the good Lord for air conditioning.
Except for a post about favorite actors, I think I'll be done blogging here in the next few minutes.

Southern accents

Amanda and I recently started a discussion about how we want Jadyn's voice to sound, as if we ultimately have anything to do with it.
This discussion centers on the fact we've heard some accents of people native to this region of Mississippi who sound, well, not so braite.
Remember, I said, some. Many of our friends who are intelligent and educated do not sound stewpid, and there are some Southern accents - especially female ones - which are absolutely delightful to the ears.
And also keep in mind that I'm a (proud) Southerner too and am prone to lapse, from time to time, into verbal laziness.
But unfortunately, the "eeit sownded lahk uh frate trane" version of Southern dialects is alive and well.
I want Jadyn to have a Southern accent, but Amanda, who is from the Amish-Mennonite region of Pennsylvania, isn't sold.
While we haven't devised an official plan for this, I'm hoping she'll develop one of those genteel, smart-sounding accents that would "do us all proud."
We have time. And we have friends around, who, if they'll cooperate, will bring us to the right accent for Jadyn.
As much as any of us have anything to do with it.

Gotta put something in the May folder

Apologies
Been busy dealing with life stuff, so to my blog audience that's left, thanks for your patience, but I do have some things to say, or at least pass along.
Finally.
Felt like the best fodder to come along in a while came in my inbox from my mother-in-law today.
It's a forward and it's a good one. At least IMHO.
It reads (including what appears to be a signature from a previous forwarder):

THE PROBLEM

Secure the Mexican border, protect New Orleans from flooding, and
eliminate the threat of alligator attacks in Florida. ­
­
­THE SOLUTION

1. Dig a moat the length of the Mexican border. ­
­2. Take the dirt and raise the levies in New Orleans. ­
­3. Then put the Florida alligators into the border moat. ­
­Any other problems you would like for me to solve??
­
If you can read this, thank a teacher.
If you can read this in English, thank a soldier.

My take
Great solution. I like the idea. Also, the signature makes a great point too. We should remain ever grateful for the sacrifices of our fighting men and women who put their lives on the line and those who paid the ultimate price.
Regarding English as our primary language, I might sound like a stick in the mud, but it is what it is and it should stay that way.
However, we shouldn't bury our heads in the sand and act as though we're not seeing a steady growth in the Hispanic population in our country. We can address this very simply on an individual level - learn Spanish.
It's one of the things on a mental "to-do" list of mine. We should face the reality, learn what we can about the culture and gently instruct those who are arriving - illegally or otherwise - about our adopted native tongue.

A sad and amazing story
Haven't read a story like this in quite some time. It's about a family who'd been caring for a woman whom they thought was their daughter, who was severely injured in a car wreck. Turns out the young woman in the hospital was not their daughter, but another woman who was in the wreck too.
Their daughter was actually already in the ground.
It's hard to fathom these families' emotions. But the family of the woman who was, in reality, dead is trusting Christ through this, and this was visible on the blog they used to update the young woman's progress, which has since been deleted. The first link is to the story and the second is to a blog now updating people on the young woman who survived.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060601/ap_on_re_us/mixed_up_victims_12

http://efree.alpine-web.net/blog.cfm

That's it for now. Hopefully I'll post more than once a month in the future. Buenos noches!

Transition

I'm in an interim weekend where I'm not technically employed by anyone, except the Lord and my wife. As mentioned before, the change in employers is on the anticipation that I'll be able to spend more time at home with my family and be more directly involved in raising my daughter. The professional side should also provide me with some new experiences and challenges.
Got the rest of the grass mowed - first cut of the year (yeah the weeds were pretty high) - and I'm just hanging out with our ol' faithful dog as Jadyn naps and Mommy's at a baby shower for a good friend.
Supposed to have some bad weather rolling in but nothing but a few slightly swaying limbs outside at this writing.
So far I haven't made this blog very exciting, but I hope this little slice of Internet real estate sheds some insights on my heart, my life and my hopes and ultimately leads people to know Jesus Christ.
Somehow.

Blogging from the hospital

I have a big spot on most of my left calf. It's called cellulitis.
I may be in the hospital for a couple of days while they give me antibotics to fight off the infection.
The infection can be from diabetes-related problems with sores not healing, but not always. The docs are having me change some dietary things and encourging me to exercise more to prevent the actual onset of diabetes.
This took place as we've started a transition to another employer. I'm hoping to be able to spend more time with my family in this new position.

'Enjoy in moderation'

Disclaimers
This is not a joke. I saw an ad tonight for Hershey's dark chocolate. Fine print during the ad said something pretty close to "Enjoy in moderation."
Maybe those folks who said the next thing the "we know what's best for you" police will go after are right - regulating food intake.
Yes, I've eaten way more than I should of chocolate and all kinds of stuff, but I don't think regulation would ever cure people of being overweight.
The quote at the top is from my latest favorite show - "My Name is Earl."
It sometimes has the IQ of one my socks with holes in it, but it's also endearing. If you're easily offended, I wouldn't watch it.

I heart my extended family!

Just a real quick to note to express my gratitude for my extended family. As I've probably mentioned before, when I was growing up, those close to my immediate family didn't include those necessarily closest in kin. In fact, some of our closest "family" wasn't even related by blood or marriage.
That's still true today, though some second cousins on both sides of my parents' family and non-related people have truly stepped in where aunts, uncles and even my parents would be.
And Amanda and I have added to the folks who've been there for my family for decades with our own little hodge-podge of people we consider actual family - even though they're simply good friends.
Thank the Lord that he surrounds us with love, and may we be gracious enough to extend it to others.

P.S. - It must be noted that my in-laws love me as if I was their own and have stood beside us in times of difficulty, uncertainty and transition.

Gel shoes and other stuff

Gel shoes
A few weeks back, my wife and a shoe store sales clerk convinced me to buy some of those "gel" shoes. I'm not sure what else to call them, except that they feel like foam insulation to the touch.
A friend didn't seem to think a guy wearing such shoes was a good idea.
I have no intention of wearing them outside of around the house, so I think it's OK. I wore them for a lengthy period for the first time today and I like them. They're comfortable and they're a step up from the ordinary household slipper. They provide support similar shoes don't usually offer.
So this time there aren't any hairline cracks in the fragile male ego - at least not over this subject.

Mike Wallace retires (sort of)
Dude, the man doesn't look 87, or even act it.
They played an interview Harry Smith did with him and he looks maybe 75ish. Wish him well in the semi-retirement.

Gotta go. Jadyn's up and hollering after an hour nap. Bye!

Wheezing like a chain smoker

Those who know me have heard me tell the story of how I once tried smoking.
Back in Alabama, spring break in my day was called "AEA week," even at private schools. (I attended private school growing up then graduated from a public high school.) AEA stands for the Alabama Education Association and spring break usually coincided with AEA's annual convention. I think now most schools and districts just pick a week at random in the latter part of March.
Anyway, I think it was the spring of either '82 or '83. I was at home, Mom and Dad were at work. Dad smoked Pall-Malls and I decided I would try it. (I already messed around with chewing tobacco and snuff to "fit in" with a group of kids at the private school.)
I did not see the attraction, but I'm sure it's probably a habit he picked up in the military and never could shake.
I don't remember how many I tried - probably just one. He didn't miss it (them), or if he did, he didn't say anything.
As you are well aware from my wife's blog, she was sick last week. This week, it was my turn, and whatever I have has me wheezing like I'm a lifetime chain smoker.
So far, the baby's been coughing a little today but hopefully she hasn't picked up any of our crud. I didn't like having to stay out an extra day after taking some comp days from work, but I don't think I could function in the shape I was in this morning.
Hopefully the meds our wonderful nurse practitioner gave me will start to work. (Thanks to our friend Amy for hooking us up with the CNP.)
I think I'm going to re-joining the family nap time already in progress after posting something quick on Jadyn's blog.
Post script: I slept in another room to keep from waking everybody up with the coughing. And, I forgot to mention I got my first dose of medicine from a breathing machine. I forgot what they gave me, but it was kind of strange to see the smoky stuff come out of the end of the tube. I'm using an albuterol inhaler too. First time for everything.

"They’ll never see the likes of us again"

Tom Brokaw immortalized the "Greatest Generation" with his book, and the men and women who stuggled so intently to get us through World War II are most certainly deserving of our thanks.
My late parents came of age in the 1940s, with my father doing so as a soldier in the 84th Infantry Division and my mother, eventually, as an employee of the Veterans Administration in Montgomery, Ala.
Dad suffered wounds in the Battle of the Bulge likely somewhere in Belgium Jan. 3, 1945. He returned home and started working at what was then the L(ouisville) and N(ashville) railroad, now a part of CSX Corporation.
A song by Genesis reminds me of Dad. It's called "Driving the Last Spike" and was released on "We Can't Dance" in 1991. It's the story of the development of the railway in England and the human cost, arguably one of the best songs they've done that didn't receive popular acclaim. Of course, there's the connection with the railroad. The hours were sometimes tough on us and him, and he certainly gave his all at his work but to my knowledge it was nothing compared to the loss of life and suffering the men who built the railroads endured.
The line that most reminds me of Dad, Mom and everyone from the "Greatest Generation" is this: "They’ll never see the likes of us again." And, I believe that's true. I hope that my generation can at least raise children comparable to that of the men and women who kept us safe during and after World War II.

Blog o' da month

I'm home for the first night since Friday and finally have a moment to write my first (but hopefully not last) blog of February.
We have been working out at the local hospital's wellness center (Baby and her Mama more than me) but it certainly has helped my stamina and outlook. Hopefully we'll all get some rest tonight after going hard for several days.
Yes, Jadyn's is going to water classes already. (There's one picture on a picture page accessible from her blog). I hope I don't wake up one day in front the man asking for her hand in marriage and wonder where the time went. Anyway, I'm off to change clothes and possibly go to the gym later. And, of course, see my daughter before she's a teenager or older.
P.S. - I didn't make it to the gym but I probably needed a night off of nothing but taking care of a few things around here and veggin' in front of "Lost" and "Invasion." ("E-Ring" will not be seen tonight so we can offer you something that will compete better with the Grammys.)

Music appreciation

Maybe it's a sign of maturity (I said maybe), but within the last few years, I've been appreciating what some would call older people's music.
This morning, I sang out loud (I don't think anyone heard, thankfully) "Mamas, Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys."
And, since Low Rawls' death, the line from one of his songs that goes "You'll never find ..." loops over and over in my head.
It wasn't really until just before his death that I started enjoying Johnny Cash. What pulled me in was the Trent Reznor song "Hurt" he re-did.
Often, I've been a fan of the big rock chords. Still am. I also enjoy much of the Christian music scene. But maybe I'm seeing a side of myself I haven't seen before and translate this willingness to branch out into other areas of life and do more risky things than simply listen to older people's music.

Attempting to change

I think I'm seeing the early stages of change in mental shifts toward healthier things in regard to work, physical condition and other topics. Sure, sometimes I still forget to put up things I'm supposed to and I think somehow I got the idea that worrying is a hobby (NOT!). But it's not meant to serve as a resolution thing. It's meant to stand as permanent changes toward - ultimately - the best.
Wow, I'm tired. Gotta hit the hay. Good night!

Next year

I hope to have a better blog, better relationships with those around me and drop some weight.

New Year's Brain Dump

I'm trying to come up with somethig witty and interesting for the blog to lure back my millions of readers.
Maybe this could be a "blog about nothing." Hey - it worked for some guy named Jerry.
My mind is fried and temporarily on pause after a series after a few sleep-deprived nights and long days. Jadyn hasn't really been an insomnia cause for some number of weeks and we're very grateful.
Well, it's off to the big"ger" city for a shopping excursion with relatives. More later.
Y'all come back now, ya hear?

We didn't see 'Eva,' but ...

We couldn't pass this one up - This is the Arby's on U.S. 280 in front of Wal-Mart in Alexander City, Ala. Usually I cringe at horrid misspellings or misuse of the English language, but somehow this was endearing. Maybe they ran out of "e's." Maybe the manager's name is Eva. But somehow it conveyed the spirit of the holiday in a warm, welcoming, although imperfect way.
It's been a wonderful holiday for us and we're sad it's coming to a close. We thank the Lord for our blessings - the greatest of which is His love for us through His son. Our most precious gift is our sweet Jadyn who we treasure so much. Thank you for sending her to us. She is truly our Christmas miracle.

Creativity vacuum in Hollywood

Maybe it's just taken me awhile to notice, but it seems the decision-makers in the traditional movie industry have lost interest and drive to develop fresh, new movie concepts.
The one notable exception appears in the animation arena - no overt duplication of ideas there.
I'm just growing weary of modern remakes of old movies.Normally, I try not to complain without having a solution. I do have a suggestion - that the major film studios develop teams, to include regular old Joes and Marys, to develop new ideas. Sure, someone would need to get creativity and writing credit, but if you have a "thinktank" generating fresh concepts, more people might actually show up to watch movies.
I don't have any ideas for a script myself. If I do, I think it needs to become a book first. :)

Been too long!

I probably have lost my entire fan base (made up largely of long-standing friends, family and a few recent arrivals to the fold).
I'm flying solo with Jadyn tonight so I might need to run back in to where she is (also because the first episode of "E-Ring" is on and I got hooked on the show after the first episode aired).
Got to work on the shopping for Amanda too along with a whole host of stuff to do before Christmas.
OK, more soon. I hope.
Fading out to my version of an old Van Halen song:
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, Jadyn's crying... ."

Space: Above and Beyond

Amanda has a knack at finding out what I like and doing something about it, something I need to get better at myself.
She bought me the DVD set for the television series, "Space: Above and Beyond." I loved it and was slightly jealous of it because it's close in general theory to many daydreams I've had over the years about an ideal futuristic story, especially as it pertains to the combat aspect. Nahh, I don't think they stole it from me. :)
The series, from the brains behind "The X Files," revolves around a squadron of Marine space aviators who are thrust into the front lines of a war which resulted from a hostile attack on Earth colonies out in space.
For the most part, it came on at 7 p.m. Eastern time Sunday in the U.S. in the 1995-96 TV season on the Fox network. Apparently, the network never explained why they canceled it but word was at the time it cost them $1 million an episode, probably a lot at the time but certainly paled by the reported $1 million per episode per main actor the cast of "Friends" was getting when that series ended.
Over the past two weeks, Amanda and I watched the entire "Space" series, and finished it last night.
The final episode leaves one feeling deprived, left hanging and helpless. I'm perplexed as to why they chose to abandon the series completely.
The show "Firefly" was recently revived with a film called "Serenity." Amanda and I have started enjoying this show and are glad someone had the sense to bring it back to life.
"Space" is probably too far gone to be brought back to life, but it lives on in the DVD collection and in my opinion was one of the best shows ever on television.
Fortunately, some of the main actors in the show have enjoyed some moderate success since. (I found the information on these folks at imdb.com.)
Joel de la Fuente ("Wang") is a regular guest on "Law and Order: SVU" as a lab tech.
James Morrison ("Lt. Col. McQueen") has a regular guest spot on "24" as "Bill Buchanan."
Kristen Cloke was in the movie "Final Destination" as "Valerie Lewton."
Lanei Chapman is probably best known post-show for her performance as Whoopi Goldberg's estranged daughter in "Rat Race."
Morgan Weisser ("West"), Rodney Rowland ("Hawkes") and Tucker Smallwood ("Commodore Ross") have made various appearances in TV and film since the show.
It wouldn't hurt my feelings if one day somebody thought about picking up where the show left off, although that would be difficult with the original cast now nearly 10 years older.
For now, "Semper Fi."

"Helping white people dance"

One of the funniest songs I think I've heard in quite some time is "Alcohol" by Brad Paisley. Through exposure and the sheer fact that some "country" sounds oddly like palatable light to moderate rock these days, I've started getting into some of it.
In fact, "Alcohol" may be funniest song I've heard since "Celebrity," the song that put Paisley on the map a couple of years back.
Now, the song is in no way an endorsement for inebriation. "I got you in trouble in high school ... ."

The computer version of camping
Thursday morning, I got up to find a message on our desktop computer saying something like "boot disk failure; insert boot disk." I knew it was bad.
An IT guy attends our church. He already had our laptop, repairing it after I hit it with my fist. (real smart)
So we swapped him and we're hoping that he can salvage the important stuff on the hard drive, most particularly our pictures of Jadyn. We have a few on her blog.
In the future, we must find a way to back up the hard drive on a regular basis.
However, please don't take what I'm saying to in any way compare to the losses sustained by the folks who lost everything - some 1,000 or so who even lost their lives - on the Coast.
Meanwhile, the laptop is serving as our connection to the Internet.

Cookie dough
Yeah I need to lose weight for sure, but we bought several batches of cookie dough from a teenage friend of the family who was selling it and I wanted to at least eat some of the stuff we bought raw. Just this once. Hopefully.

Rough night
Any parents out there with suggestions on how to make the transition from a smaller bed or swing to a crib without anyone losing sleep, please pass it along. :)

Where has the indignation gone?

It's buried under time, and certainly under the numbers of war dead, but there was a moment when this nation clamored to set the scales right by the imbalance created by Sept. 11, 2001.
Decisions were made on faulty intelligence - hopefully flawed by miscalulation than by intentional deceit - to unseat Saddam.
Sure, the protracted nature of things in Iraq give us a sense that we shouldn't have done anything.
Where would be now if we hadn't? Sure it sounds jingoistic to some ears, but should we have taken the passive approach and wait 'til someone struck again before going forward?
To second-guess the current situation in Iraq, in my view, is to Monday-morning-quarterback decisions which are three years old, and undermine the sacrifices our men and women have made.

Blogger's Block

I'm off work sick today and I haven't been blogging much because I really haven't thought about how to use this blog as an outlet without venting about work or other stuff that just wouldn't be appropriate for this forum.
So that's why you haven't heard from me lately. We also do our baby updates on another Web site and I like to keep them there.
I also wanted to let some time go by after Rina passed away. While she wasn't someone we were in touch with every day (she resided in the western United States), she checked in with us frequently during Amanda's pregnancy and some afterward. Her death was just so shocking because of her age and we simply just didn't see her as someone who was sickly. I guess it's your time when it's your time.

Christmas list
She's one of four people who would normally get a Christmas letter from us this year who won't be there to get one.
We haven't contacted everyone about Jadyn's birth on our normal Christmas list because we simply haven't had time to generate all the letters needed.
We try to send the letters to people we probably won't see at Christmas, although at least one person who we do see at Christmas has told us to send one anyway. We'll see as we get it together this year.

Treating the ills
I visited a neat practice today to get my medications. A Nigerian-born physician and a nurse practitioner (from the Southeast) have a great little clinic here. They take some different approaches to things and I think it'll actually be fun to go to the doctor. At least it was today.

Yes I AM sick so I'm going to lay down next to the swing (see Jadyn's blog) and keep an ear for her. More later maybe.

Bobby ...

Is doing much better and we're greatful that he's up, around and OK.

In mourning

Our friend Rina passed away last night. That's about all I know right now. She was approximately 27 and her husband is left with three children to raise. Please pray for her family as they cope with this tremendous loss.

Prayer requests

Please pray for our friend Rina. Doctors are keeping her in a medically-induced coma while they determine how to treat a postpartum heart condition. She has three children, the youngest of which is 4 months old.
Also, our friend Bobby just suffered a heart attack and is on his way to a hospital about an hour away for treatment. Please pray for him and his family.

E Ring

"Easily one of the best shows on network television," raves some guy who doesn't get his name in a sound-byte promo.
The show gives us a glimpse of the politics of decision-making inside the Pentagon, probably slightly exaggerated to some degree but right on overall.
And, they don't use fake names of countries, like Booga-booga-stan.
They talk about real places, like Iran and Burundi.
Throw in Trevor Rabin's soundtrack and you've got a doozey.
Unfortunately, it's too smart for the "Dude, Where's My Car?" crowd and probably won't last a year.
But I'll enjoy it while it lasts.

Not a fan

The Bush administration rightfully earned much of the criticism it received over its repsonse to Hurricane Katrina.
I also do think something smells funny about all the Haliburton contracts.
On the whole I do support the administration's approach to the War on Terror and I think people like Cindy Sheehan are a distraction to an effort which is right on the whole (I think the WMDs are in the hands of people friendly to Saddam, but that's just a hopeful wild guess.).
Anyway, I do have one significant bone to pick about the nomination of Harriet Miers - it looks a bit too much like cronyism.
If I were the president, I'd be inclined to nominate someone I felt personally comfortable with and who'd given me what found to be solid advice.
But the president isn't the one with final say.
She probably can handle the job but even though the lean toward bench experience among court nominees is apparently fairly recent, I think it's a good trend. I think the president is committed to Ms. Miers but will probably have to rethink his approach after she gets shot down.

Baby and job land

I haven't posted in a while. Sorry about that.
We've been busy dealing with some baby issues, some of them routine, others, well, we're just learning what works best for her in terms of feeding. On the scale of things nothing huge.
I'm also learning how best to do a new job, so it's been challenging but overall rewarding.
Gotta run check on the baby! More later.