Irun Coach

Taxes, Football, & Dreams

2010-01-17T23:06:00.002-05:00

Started working on my federal income taxes yesterday. TurboTax makes this process easier and prevents several headaches. Watched NFL football yesterday and today (partially). Glad to see that it is the Saints, Vikings, Jets, and Colts that survived to next week. Think I'm rooting for the Vikings, although the Saints have had a neat, fairy tale-like season and the city of New Orleans deserves something special. Of course I'm backing the Colts in the other game. Go blue!!! Tomorrow is Martin Luther King, Jr. day -- so I have the day off from school. It'll be nice to sleep in. Yeah! While there are some positive stories coming out of Haiti, most of the news has been tragic. Now they're reporting at least 70,000 dead. Horrible.

Haiti Tragedy :,(

2010-01-14T21:37:00.002-05:00

It's horrible -- an earthquake near the capital of the poorest nation in the world: Haiti. Estimates range from 45,000 to 50,000 dead, thousands injured, and so much aid rushing in that the congestion is preventing dispersal and needed assistance. A terrible thought crossed my mind last night. One so heartless, callus, extremely sad -- but possibly true. What if, in the long run, this earthquake proves to actually be beneficial to Haiti? With so many dead and so much destruction, how can one contemplate that it might be for the best in the larger picture? Cruel!

In my sociology class we recently (last week) discussed the six major sources of social change. One of them is the physical environment and one of the sub-categories is natural disasters. With all the aid, resources/supplies, and money heading toward Haiti, the poorest country in the world might be able to build a strong political and economic foundation (ie. social structure) that may eventually guide the nation to greater prosperity and out of the depths of despair and poverty. ~God willing, let it be so.

Un - Sure

2010-01-13T21:48:00.002-05:00

Don't really know what to blog about this evening. Could talk about being tired (sleepy and of being injured), or about the people of Haiti that are suffering after the devastating earthquake and how they need our prayers and support, or about the government tests I'm supposed to be grading but I'm procrastinating, or about being a proud papa of two wonderful sons that are doing awesome in school (but can't seem to behave at home), or about the presentation that I'm struggling with that I have to give next week. Did you notice a commonality in that huge rambling, run-on sentence? Most of the possible topics were about "I". I have a real problem with being self-centered, self-absorbed, self-possessed, self-effacing, etc., etc. I like me, but the world is a brighter place when you look outside rather than inside. Enjoy life!

If You're Happy And You Know It ...

2010-01-12T23:37:00.002-05:00

Great day today! Very busy week and this will be a short post because I'm tired and want to go to bed. Things are looking up: the temperature is starting to rise! Warmer weather - - Yeah!!!!! Hope to be back to running soon. (Maybe tomorrow.) Still have to figure out what I'm going to speak about at our teacher in-service next week. Ugh!

American Made

2010-01-11T21:09:00.004-05:00

Finished reading Kelsey Timmerman's book, "Where Am I Wearing?" This book is about his exploits into the factories where our clothes are made and into the lives of the people who make our clothes. Very eye opening! And depressing! (If you have a conscience and can feel guilt and compassion.) Basically, garment/clothing companies have left the U.S. and gone to the countries that have the cheapest labor force. That's another way of saying that they have the most desperate people who'll work however long is required for the lowest pay imaginable. There's little to no job security and few labor laws. Just what the garment factories desire. There are some unions and organizations that have fought to limit sweatshops and curtail child labor, but these things still happen, along with corruption & bribery.

Kelsey is coming to my government classes tomorrow to speak to my students about his quest that took him to Honduras, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and China. He's also going to share the answers he found to the tough questions he posed. Kelsey is from the Midwest, having graduated from Mississinaw Valley H.S. (Union City, OH) and Miami University (Oxford, OH). He currently resides in Muncie, Indiana, with his family. You can find more about him and this issue at his website, whereamiwearing.com. Check it out!

Forty-One: When It Starts Falling Apart

2010-01-10T22:48:00.002-05:00

I don't feel like I'm hitting a mid-life crisis. Shot, I don't know what one even consists of. But since I turned 41 this past summer my body has started to break down. Or at least show its age more. List of injuries/aches: left achilles, left tibia (probable stress fracture), right hip, right hamstring, serious cold, right chest/lung pain. Now, I'm not a hypochondriac, but my body is showing some wear and certain anatomical areas are shouting complaints. Oh great! Now I've got another one to add: I'm feeling tired and think that it's getting late and I should probably get some sleep. What happened to the night owl?!?

Winter Day To-Do List

2010-01-09T23:51:00.004-05:00

Boys ended up staying at the out-laws, er, in-laws last night. Yeah!

This morning I filled up ("Squirrel!") the gas tank in my car, got Concannon's donuts, put a new windshield wiper on the van, ate donuts, read, took a brief nap, drove to Winchester and filled the vans gas tank up, went sledding, ate Pizza Hut pizza, drove home listening to the start of the Bengals football game, watched the Bengals stink it up ("Squirrel!"), watched some of the Eagles vs. Cowboys game, played "Old Maid" with Conner, talked to my parents on the phone, read to Conner, watched some more football, read a little, checked my email, and wrote this blog post. Not too bad of a day, although I did sit on my rear a lot! :(

BTW, it's really cold outside right now!!! (-1 F) Brrrrrrrrrrr!

He's Growing Up

2010-01-08T22:05:00.003-05:00

After a relaxing "snow day" at home, we ventured into Muncie this evening to dine with Melissa's family at the Thai Smile (2) Restaurant. Having never tried Thai cuisine before I was unsure what to expect, but it was really good. We'll definitely be eating there again. Afterward, we took a jaunt over to the in laws for a visit. As we were preparing to leave, our boys came scurrying in to ask if they could spend the night. Now, Conner has spent the night there before, although it's been awhile. But Carter has never spent the night away from us before so this is a major step. I hope all goes well and they have a good nights sleep, but I won't be surprised if we get a phone call requesting us to come pick one or both of the boys up sometime during the night.

The snow has finally stopped. Well, we're still having some flurries, but that really doesn't count. Now the cold, I mean really COLD weather is supposed to descend upon us for the next couple of days. Everyone enjoy!!! :P

Snow Haze And Shortened Days

2010-01-07T23:49:00.002-05:00

The school where I teach, as well as most other schools around the region, dismissed early today because of the snow. It's only around 5 inches, but if you watch the local news you'd think that it's the coming of the next ice age. They weren't showing nonstop news coverage. It was more like watching the weather channel -- 24 hour weather coverage. There are, fortunately, those intellectual enough in our household to figure out that if the power button on the remote is clicked the suffering would end.

We already have a 2-hour delay for tomorrow morning! Yeah! One time I'll actually give a shout out for snow. Now I won't be dragging quite so bad after staying up late watching the national championship football game. Roll Tide! (No, I'm not really a fan. I'm just not a big fan of Texas.) Thanks PK for the suggestion about the balmy climate around Escobedo, California!!! While I might enjoy a change of scenery and a migration to a warmer local, I believe the rest of the Miller clan would frown upon such a move.

If I don't have school tomorrow and the rest of the family does, I may journey into Muncie and see "Avatar." Sounds like a pretty good plan to me. :) We've been invited to a Thai restaurant for dinner tomorrow evening. Never had Thai before so it should be an interesting adventure.

... And Too Old For That

2010-01-06T21:27:00.002-05:00

I'm not enjoying the snow and cold this year, or at least not the cold. The snow is pretty if you're watching it from inside a warm abode. I think I'm showing my age and my dislike for winter and the cold more and more. Anyone have a nice, cheap condo for rent in Florida? I'm ready to head south with the snowbirds! Speaking of snow, we're supposed to get 4 - 6 inches over the next 24 hours. We'll see if the weathermen got it right this time. Beware the coming of the white death! (Hurry out to your local grocery to stock up. Snow is on the way.) lol

Too Young For That

2010-01-06T21:26:00.002-05:00

I was trying to blog every day this year ... and I forgot to yesterday and it was only the fifth day of the new year! My mind can't be going already!!!

Procrastination!

2010-01-03T22:13:00.002-05:00

Hey, it's such a wonderful thing ... until you actually have to complete what you've put off for a week-and-a-half. Need to finish the journals tonight. If the Bengals won, or at least made the game interesting, the grading process probably wouldn't seem such a chore. Funny thing though: if they loss tonight to the Jets they get to play them in the first round of the playoffs next week. And right now, I'd definitely say that they're going to lose. But hey, the Colts got smoked today since they didn't play their offensive first team after the first quarter. Hopefully, they didn't play their defensive first team because the defense wasn't impressive either. Enough football.

Hope everyone has a great first work week of the new year! Go 2010!!! :]

Good Start To 2010

2010-01-02T21:48:00.002-05:00

Didn't go to see "Avatar" today like I'd planned, but still had a great day spending time with the family!!! Played the Wii with Conner (he beat me in tennis & boxing; I beat him in bowling and Super Smash Bros.) and knights with Carter. Read some and watched some of the Cotton Bowl (Ole Miss was playing really well). Went shopping at Kmart and the Mall, then to Taco Bell for fine dining in Muncie. Read to Conner, then had him read to me before he went to bed. He's doing such a fantastic job! Maybe, just maybe, I'll go for a run tomorrow (have run only once in the last nine days.) I don't like the cold temps. that we're having, however. Need to prepare myself mentally for Monday and back to school. Aghhhhh!!!

It's A New Thang!

2010-01-01T10:59:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!!! 2010 ~ Wow! Many people are confused, and probably don't care, that 2010 is actually the last year of the decade, not the first year of the new decade. (Just wanted to clarify that. You know how we social studies teachers can be.) Celebrated the start of the New Year at the brother-in-laws' house and was on the road home by 12:24. Spent most of the night coughing and trying not to keep everyone else awake. Do you have any resolutions for 2010? I don't; yet. But I've been thinking of a few and I'll have to decide today whether to follow them or just go on with the usual life.

New event for the New Year: the boys are up playing the Wii this morning. Sure, they got it for Christmas, but this is the first New Year's Day that they've had it to play. Maybe I should resolve to play the Wii every day to justify the expense. Or not. Hope your New Year is prosperous, peaceful, and prayerful. God bless!

Reminiscing

2009-12-30T22:30:00.002-05:00

Just spent the last half-hour going back over a lot of my old posts. It was amusing and enjoyable to read about the events that I've blogged about over the past few years. Most of them made me smile and/or remember when.... We went to see "Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Squekquel" this afternoon. It was really good, but not as good as the first Chipmunks movie. Rambled over to the mall and returned a few items, then headed west to Wal-Mart to do some pre-New Year's Eve shopping. Finished the night out with dinner at Arby's. Now I'm contemplating whether I want to do some reading, play Guild Wars on the computer, or work on my Wii skills while the boys are asleep. Tomorrow night will be a late, err, early one with all the festivities and celebration of bring in the New Year. 2010. Wow! SQUIRREL!

Bucket List, Part Deu

2009-12-29T23:37:00.002-05:00

Somewhere in my various ramblings and musings I'm sure I created a bucket list afore this one, but I couldn't find it while skimming back over several different months. We, my family and I, finished watching the movie, "UP," tonight. The boys got the DVD for Christmas. The couple at the beginning of the movie had some definite plans and/or adventures that they wanted to complete during their lifetime, but they never managed to complete their top priority together. I'm not sure what my dreams/adventures/plans/goals are for the future. And I think that's sad. I'm always telling my athletes to set goals to strive toward and suggesting to my students to plan for the future. I don't, however, know what I want to do. As far as "bucket lists" go, sure, there are things that I'd like to do. But my wife and I haven't sat down together in quite some time and made a list of things that we'd like to do. To be honest, I'd like to hear what she has to say on the matter. (Which is highly unusual seeing as how I'm usually ignoring her or trying to block her voice out.) lol What do I want to do in the next year? Five years? Ten years? Before I die? Stay tuned to future posts as I ponder this issue, delve through my psyche, pray for guidance, and hopefully come up with a list of goals. ttys

Fair or Not?

2009-12-26T22:08:00.002-05:00

Santa brought the Miller boys a Wii for Christmas. They've enjoyed it immensely, especially the oldest who keeps kicking his fathers' rear while playing. The boys are in bed sleeping, so dear old dad is going to play for a while to work on his skills.... Is this cheating? (Ponders.) No.

Tis' Done

2009-12-25T22:13:00.001-05:00

The highly anticipated day is almost over. Hope everyone's Christmas was merry! This lil Santa's helper is pooped and ready for rest. Until next year ............ :O

Here Comes Santa Claus, Here Comes ....

2009-12-24T21:58:00.002-05:00

Rejoice! Now is the time to share our faith with the world and the hope that is Christ Jesus as we celebrate his birth! Be His light unto the world and let others see Him through our faith and deeds! Merry Christmas!!!

It Cometh Upon Us Quickly....

2009-12-22T22:15:00.002-05:00

Christmas is almost here! The time to watch the wonder and surprise on my sons' faces, celebrate the holiday with family, and give praise for the birth of our Savior! Only three more days! (Or two-and-a-half.) Yeah!!!

So....

2009-11-21T22:26:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted since August...at least Blogger is still free to use. Don't really feel like I accomplished much today, except watching a lot of football but no games that I really cared about. Ohio State won (big whoop/who cares.) They'll get crushed in the Rose Bowl anyway. Purchased a wireless mouse for my new laptop that my wife still doesn't know that I bought. (Maybe I should give it to her for Christmas then hoard it all for myself.) Feel like I need to exercise but too late for that tonight. Had a nice run yesterday (little over 40min.) and I'll get one in tomorrow. Only have a two-day work week ahead of the wonderful Thanksgiving break!!! My motto for tomorrow will be "Carpe Diem!" Have a glorious one! :)

Updates, Down Dates, Diagonal Dates

2009-08-26T22:15:00.004-04:00

Summer, or at least the stay at home and not have to go to school type of summer, is coming to a close. Melissa started back to work after nine years as a stay-at-home mom. Conner is in 3rd grade and Carter started kindergarten (with some anxiety.) I had my first cross-country meet of the season yesterday and, well, let's just say there's lots of room for improvement. I start back to school this Friday (teacher's first day) but don't have students until next Tues. (9/1). I think our family can officially be classified as "Hoosiers" because we now have a basketball goal in our drive. (Well, the base anyway until tomorrow.) Pastor Kris, Tammy, and Shelby stopped by while out for a walk this evening and PK took part in a swashbuckling sword fight with the boys. Shelby came to his rescue after he took a couple of viscious hits.

What did you do this summer? We had several adventures and jaunts: Indy Children's Museum, Drive-in, water park, Bear Creek Farms, Disney World & Downtown Disney, the beach (in Florida), flew to FL, went bowling (several times), went fishing, vacation Bible school, Cub Scout day camp, putt-putting (I didn't get to go), Parker Fair, "Great" Darke County Fair (OH), bike rides, swimming (a few times). No surprise to anyone, I'm sure, that I ran a lot this summer and did two triathlons (canoe, run, bike).

We, the Blessed

2009-07-18T22:30:00.003-04:00

Haven't posted in almost a month because, well, not sure why. Today we celebrated Conner's 9th birthday! (Although his birthday isn't actually until Monday.) Wow, nine years old already and about to start the third grade!!! The cliche about time flying is certainly true. I'm leaving tomorrow after church for Ashland Univ. for a week of classes on the Civil War and Reconstruction. Should be pretty interesting, especially once I figure out what spin or angle the professors are trying to get us to buy. Had a heart-to-heart with Conner tonight about how blessed we are, both as people of God and as citizens of this rich, powerful (and hugely in debt) country. He was disappointed that he only got six presents for his birthday (plus $75). Melissa and I both talked with him about the importance of being thankful and tried to impress upon him that, while it's not unusual to get quite a bit for a birthday in America, it's extremely rare compared to the rest of the world. It's easy to see, looking around my cluttered part of the house, that we have a LOT of stuff. We went to the drive-in last night and watched "Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs." We're flying to Disney World in Orlando in just over a week. God has been very, very good to use!

70 Years!

2009-06-22T00:15:00.003-04:00

As it is now past midnight, I'll begin with ~ "Yesterday (Sun.), June 21st, was my grandparents 70th Wedding Anniversary!!!" Can you believe that? 70 YEARS! A lot of married couples (about half) are lucky to make it to 7 or 10 years, so 70 years is incredible!!! Now, I know what some of you are thinking -- if you read in the Old Testament of the Bible you'll discover couples that were married a LOT longer than that. I think it was all the goats milk and warm, dry climate that helped them. ;) Melissa and I get along really well (as long as I do what she says!), but it's hard to fathom being married to each other for 70 years, especially since we're only at 12.5 years. If I had to guess at the reason for the longevity of my grandparents marriage it would be four mutual things: an enjoyment of sports, a love for fishing, eating a LOT of the fish they caught, and turning their hearing aids down or completely off. (Plus the TV up really loud!)

TRIATHLON

2009-06-21T01:19:00.003-04:00

Completed my first triathlon yesterday that involved canoing. The way it works is you team up with a partner, then canoe, run, and bike. You and your partners' times are added together to get your overall team time to figure out how you placed. We finished the canoe portion (4 miles) in 41 min. I finished the run (little over 5 miles) in 36 min. The last part, biking 17 miles, I finished in about 55 min. My overall individual time was 2 hr.-12 min.-50 sec. I'm pretty pleased for my first tri of this type. We're doing another one in July!!! (Gluttons for pain!)

There & Back Again

2009-06-16T22:24:00.002-04:00

After teaching my summer school class this morning Jason(my racing partner) and I went to the Stillwater River in West Milton, OH, and canoed the four miles of the course that we'll be racing on Sat. Then we ran the five miles back to W. Milton that we'll also be racing on Sat. The only thing we didn't do is the seventeen miles of biking. Should be an interesting triathlon!!!

Proud Papa

2009-06-15T22:25:00.003-04:00

Conner had only one hit all season - - until tonight!!! He went 5-for-5 in double-header action, hitting a triple his first time up! We've been working really hard to improve his batting and he finally saw the results. All credit to his determination and all praise to God! Now I just hope that he doesn't start to get cocky about his success. (He gets that from his mother! LOL) :)
(One of my favorite Bible verses): "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to ...." Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

Not Unique Or Original

2009-06-12T00:04:00.002-04:00

PK's post today reminded me of something I've experienced several times in the last few weeks. At the end of 150N where it T's into S1100W there is a VERY protective redwing blackbird. This crazy bird dives at your head as you approach its "territory" and continues to do so repeatedly until it no longer views you as a threat. It's even done this when I've ridden by on my bike! I like nature and all of God's creatures, but I wouldn't be upset if this bird became a hood ornament on a passing vehicle. :]

To-Do List

2009-06-06T22:59:00.002-04:00

Today was a sunny, warm, glorious day! I can mark three things off of my to-do list. After we came home from the ballpark, where both Conner and Carter had games, I went for a run and biked. Then I enlarged the flower bed in front of the house, got our TV's ready to go digital, and found (but haven't fixed yet) the leak under the kitchen sink.

The END!

2009-06-04T21:43:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow (Fri., 6/5/09) is the first day of the State track meet in Ohio at the Jesse Owens Memorial Track & Field Stadium at the Ohio State University AND my last day as a track & field coach. This season has had a LOT of ups and downs and I've done a lot of reminiscing and a little tear shedding. It's been a wonderful, sometimes trying, but ultimately worthwhile endeavor to develop ability in and teach life lessons to the many athletes that I've coached. Someday,...well, someday I may get back into coaching T & F, but after tomorrow I'm on sabbatical. Our boys coach told me that he gives me three, four years tops before I'm back at it. Only God knows for sure. I'm confident that Ariel will do well in the high jump. She placed 8th at State last year and her focus and effort have been excellent these past few weeks.
~ On a little different note: cross-country practice begins in just over two months! :P And my first race of the summer is in just over two weeks!! :]

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Here & Now

2009-06-02T20:22:00.004-04:00

Today was an awesome day! Not only was it my first official day of summer break, but God provided warmth and sunshine, then needed rain and a light show! I love watching lightning, especially during a thunderstorm at night!

After watching "Sid the Science Kid" with Carter this morning, I did my calisthenics then went for a bike ride(42 min.). When I got home, Carter and I rode around town for a bit. After getting cleaned up, Carter and I headed toward Ohio, stopping at BK in Winchester for a bite of lunch before continuing on to school. Talked with several of the administrators and teachers/coaches. Actually, they were more interested in talking to Carter, but that was okay. :) Found out that I "may" be the head of the social studies department in about three weeks. The main perk there is that I'll get to choose which classes I want to teach next year. Copied my old workouts for next years "new" track coach while Carter played with his "Cars" vehicles. Then it was out to the track for Ariel's high jump practice and a lap around the track with Carter. Once we arrived back in P-town (Copyright 200?, PK) Conner, Carter, and I played warriors outside and I trimmed the grass around the house. Finally, supper and checking my email/blog/facebook before setting down to dictate this entry to my secretary. (Okay, just kidding about the dictation and secretary.) ~ "Blessed be the name of the Lord!"

Fear

2009-06-01T21:34:00.003-04:00

Pastor Kris has been preaching the last few weeks about our "Fear of ...." The first week it was fear of "failure" and this past week it was fear of "losing control." I used ideas from his message about failure when talking with girls on my track team before the Regional meet last week. One of the things that we discussed is that two of the worst feelings that we can have is the fear of failure and regret. We talked about staying positive and letting go of our fears and concentrating on the task at hand. A couple of the girls have no problem discussing religion and God so we talked about the strength and peace that He can provide us in times of stress and turmoil. I think, for most of them, that they understood the meaning behind what we were talking about. Here's a big shout out to Pastor Kris, "THANK YOU!!"

SUMMER :)

2009-05-31T10:17:00.002-04:00

My last day with students was Friday, so summer has officially started for me! (Although I have to go back to school every day this week and I'll be teaching an OGT summer school class the week of June 15th.)
I had one athlete qualify to the State track meet. She's a high jumper and she jumps on Friday starting at 4:00 pm at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Track & Field Stadium.
I've already started my summer to do list. Things yet to do include:
- getting the TV system ready to go digital.
- cleaning my desk and the area around it. (It's a mess!)
- cleaning and rearranging the back closet.
- getting all my "piles" that are scattered around the house cleared up.
- fix/caulk the front window.
- fix the leak under the kitchen sink.
- enlarge the front flower bed.
- maybe put a backsplash guard on the wall behind the kitchen sink.

I'm sure that Melissa will add to this list as the weeks fly by! :P
Hope you have a great summer!!! Run Happy! :]

Looking Back

2009-05-17T22:25:00.002-04:00

I haven't taken the time to blog for a while, mostly b/c I've been busy coming and going and passing myself in between. This past week consisted of a track meet in beautiful weather (Mon.); practice in gorgeous weather, sold tournament tickets, academic awards program (Tues.); short practice in the rain (Wed.); first night of conference competition (Thur.); quick practice and Carter's preschool graduation program (Fri.); conference finals and graduation party (Sat.); church, birthday party, outdoor fun with the family, grading papers (Sun.). AND you should see my calendar for this next week!

BTW ~ We won. Conference champions four years in a row!!!!

P.S. ~ I'm taking a break from coaching track after this season. It's time (past time) that I spent more time and paid more attention to my family and their needs. This is my farewell tour.

Incredible Job!

2009-04-19T23:01:00.002-04:00

Ryan McAllister gave a fantastic message, "Got Ears?" today! "He who has ears to hear let them in." Way to go Ryan!!! I thought your sermon was awesome! (And I took lots of notes!) Our "Weapons from God" against Satan and the world/sin: the truth, grace, and prayer. Keep seeking the things of God. It's a never ending process. We need to take back our "One Nation, Under God!"

Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." ~ John 14: 5-7

Thankful....

2009-04-12T21:58:00.004-04:00

for the times when our family gathers and shares in fellowship. I cherish these moments. Most of all, I'm thankful for a Savior who died for my sins (there are so many) and rose from the grave three days later, fulfilling the promise of everlasting life. Salvation and Resurrection!!! Thanks also to the incredible pastors and ministry team at FFC for the awesome job that you do! PK, the TXT series was great! BTW, which of the 66 books of the Bible would you want with you if stranded on a deserted island? Hope everyone had a blessed Easter! :]

~ "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23

I Need Help!

2009-04-03T00:02:00.002-04:00

I've got this song going through my head and I don't know the title or author. Would someone please help me with this one? The chorus goes, "At the top of my lungs I will sing Hallelujah, you're the one who saved me, the one who gave me this life I live, forever more, forever more." (At least I think those are the words.) Any ideas? Thanks in advance!!! :]

First Of The Last

2009-03-29T21:59:00.002-04:00

Despite what my wife thinks, this is my 17th, and last, season to coach track & field (at least for awhile.) Yesterday we had our first meet of the season, an invitational at Versailles against some of the best DIII teams in the state. We ended up 4th out of the eight teams in our division, which isn't bad, but the overall picture is less than inspiring. True, we knew we'd lost a lot of talent through graduation last year, but the overall performance of our team was disheartening. ~Now that I've got that out of my system, it's time to get back to an optimistic, perhaps unrealistic, perspective of things and continue to work toward improvement. The conference meet is a month-and-a-half away yet and we've got plenty to work on. Tomorrow, for example, we have another meet but part of my team will be missing. Improvisation 101!!! Run Happy! :]

Like Sand Through The Hourglass....

2009-03-22T22:52:00.002-04:00

WOW! It's amazing how time flies! Our youngest son, Carter (aka "Little C") celebrated his 5th birthday today. FIVE! For us the time dissipates so fast but to God it is as a blink of the eye. People often say to cherish your children while they're young because time flies so fast. Now I get it! Our "little" boys are growing up so fast. Before long it'll be high school, then college (hopefully), then marriage and grandkids (I pray it's in that order.) Boy, do I suddenly feel really old myself. :]

Survival

2009-03-16T21:53:00.002-04:00

Well, I made it through the early morning, up at 5:00 am to serve breakfast to the sophomores before they began the first of their OGTs (Ohio Graduation Tests). Today was reading, tomorrow's math, Wed. is writing, Thur. is science, and Fri. is social studies. At least they saved the best for last!!! This makes for a crazy, hectic week, but I don't sweat it too much because whether they pass or not is ultimately not up to me. Despite what some politicians may think (1. do they think? and 2. Gov. Strickland (OH) and Pres. Obama) I don't have telepathy nor any other form of ESP to control the thoughts, interests, and habits of my students. If they don't want to study or are apathetic about school, how am I going to change them? I can say a prayer for them and wish them "good luck," but the end result is up to them. Scary, isn't it? :)

100th Post!!! Woot!!!

2009-03-12T22:59:00.004-04:00

Yea! I've finally reached the century mark! One hundred posts and going strong. Almost like the Energizer bunny. <>_<>

First thing - blessings and prayers for Pastor Kris and Pastor Pink as they venture forth on a mission from God to Northern Ireland tomorrow. The northern part of the Emerald Isle hasn't been the safest place the past few days, but I'm confident that God will shelter His faithful from harm.

One of my freshman students was handing out pamphlets to some of the guys in my history class today. I must be one of the guys because he also gave me one. It's titled: 20 Ways for Young Men to Become REAL MEN. Here's a summary of the 20 things.
1) Tell cool, funny jokes that aren't offensive.
2) Imitate the virtues of the saints while asking them for guidance.
3) Keep your standards high when it comes to who you date.
4) Read the Bible - daily!
5) Respect women.
6) Be a man of integrity. Remember that even when alone God is watching.
7) Be both strong and gentle.
8) Pray for those who would lead you down the wrong path.
9) Pray for yourself when someone tries to tempt you.
10) Honor your mom and sisters.
11) Find creative, pure ways to express your feelings to the woman you like.
12) Find good male role models to emulate.
13) Be open to the priesthood.
14) Show gentlemanly respect to all women.
15) Trust in God's mercy.
16) Don't settle for counterfeits to a real/meaningful relationship.
17) Guard your senses from temptation.
18) Recognize Mary as your Mother.
19) Practice making small sacrifices.
20) Make Jesus Christ your best friend and greatest role model.
*Obviously, this pamphlet was created for everyone by those who practice the Catholic faith. I'm not Catholic, but most of these are fantastic suggestions for any young man. And even old one's like me! :] PEACE

And....

2009-03-09T22:43:00.003-04:00

You'd think since I've been a track coach for 17 years and a cross-country coach for 15 years that I'd know how to figure the splits per lap to run a mile (ok, it's technically only 1600m, not a mile) in 7 minutes, right? WRONG! Another coach and I decided to run a mile (1600m) at 7 minute pace, so I thought, "Alright, that's 1:30 per lap." Anyone see the discrepancy there? 1:30 per lap is 6 minute pace, not 7. Guess how long it took me to figure this out. It wasn't until the 4th lap that I realized that we were going too fast and that my figuring was wrong concerning our pace. Funny thing was he never said a thing about it during the run, only afterward. I believe this demonstrates, without a shadow of a doubt, why it's a good thing that I teach social studies and not math or science.

"The Lord said to Moses, 'Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.'" ~ Leviticus 19:28

Bummed.

2009-03-06T23:06:00.002-05:00

I'm in a funk. Tomorrow is the Cub Scout's "Pinewood Derby!" Conner did most of his own work this year and, while his car doesn't look spectacular, I think it'll be pretty fast and surprise some people. I'm bummed b/c some of the "big kids" (adults) decided to make derby cars too to race against each other. I have this really cool looking silver car that looks like a cross between a spaceship and a shark. As I was putting the finishing touches on it and inserting the first axle the wood split! Aauugh!!!!! I could have yelled loud enough for Pastor Kris to hear me three blocks away. Actually, I would have but the boys are in bed asleep and I know how much trouble I'd be in with my wife if I woke them. So now it's down to wood glue and paint to try to fix/cover up the damage. I thought I might have stood a pretty good chance of winning some races tomorrow but the aerodynamics are now off. I'll have to settle for an okay car that still looks pretty nice. PEACE

EXTRA! EXTRA! Read All About It!

2009-02-26T22:00:00.002-05:00

Here's some news and random musings: ~ I sold my first item on eBay last weekend! I've posted another item, so we'll see if this is the start of a new "home" career or just a minor side job.

My grandfather turned 94 today!!! Woot! Happy Birthday Grandpa Anthony! On the downside, as I spoke with him on the phone this evening he told me that one of the calls he received today was to tell him that his brother Lloyd had passed away. ... I didn't know Lloyd very well and saw him, at most, once a year. But I still feel bad/sad. My grandfather is the oldest of seven (I think) kids and I think he only has a sister still left alive. A lot of "young" people want to live a loooong life, but I know from our talks that my grandfather doesn't feel that living as long as he has has been all that great.

Had a parent-teacher conference with Little "C"s pre-school teacher this evening. Sounds like he's doing wonderful, maybe even better than I expected, and his teacher informed us that he's definitely ready for kindergarten next fall. Yikes!

I John 4: 7-8 ~ "Beloved, let us love one another. For love is of God, and everyone that loveth knoweth God, and loveth God. He that loveth not, knoweth not God, for God is love. Beloved, let us love one another." (This is the verse to a song I learned while a church camp counselor in southern Ohio oh so long ago.)

Banana Poop!

2009-02-05T22:22:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I plagiarized the title of today's blog from Pastor K's site/blog. GUILTY! I read it there on his Twitter comments and thought it was funny. Here's my desktop picture. Don't laugh too much! I don't play WoW, but I've always enjoyed reading fantasy novels and playing the occasional fantasy PC game. :)

LOOK!!! Down below!

2009-01-30T21:40:00.003-05:00

If you've never noticed before, I have nine inspirational videos on the bottom of my blog, as well as a quote from A. Lincoln in the right margin. Check them out sometime. PEACE

Another Day

2009-01-30T07:25:00.002-05:00

So, for the third day in a row both Conner and I don't have school. Makes for a nice five day weekend, but this also means that Conner will be going to school through June 16th. Darke County, Ohio, where I teach is on a Level 3 Snow Emergency so our school had no choice but to close. We'll be making up one missed day in Feb. at our President's Day break and another in April at our Easter break. If Ansonia misses any more they'll be added on to the end of the school year. :( On the positive side I get to spend bonus time with my family and I can finish our taxes and get them efiled today! Have a great weekend!!! :]

Waiting....

2009-01-28T10:08:00.002-05:00

I have another "snow day" at home! Yea, I guess! In Ohio schools are granted five calamity days per school year. This is the fifth and final one for this year, so any days that we miss from now on have to be made up. I'm waiting for the snow to stop so I can go shovel! By some estimates we've got around ten inches of the white stuff. WooHoo!!! :P

Maybe Next Year...But What A Blessing

2009-01-25T21:33:00.003-05:00

Here's the long & the short of it: There was a conflict concerning whether I should go back to New Orleans with the FFC mission team or compete in a triathlon with a partner (there's canoeing, so you compete as a team) this summer. We'd already entered the race so I prayed about what I should do, where God wanted me in June. On Friday the teacher that I'm partnered with and I changed the race that we're doing so that I'd be free to go to NOLA. My mind was made up and I was sure that this is what God wanted for me. I was excited! At the beginning of the church service today I read that there were only a few spots left for the mission trip. After the service I talked with Jeff and found out that all the spaces had been filled. I was bummed. Okay, I was REALLY disappointed, but I'd waited too long to speak up so the only finger pointing is at myself. Like I mentioned to Melissa, the trip apparently isn't what God has planned for me this summer.
Now to the really cool part. Eighteen people stepped forward in just a week to join team leaders Jeff and Brenda for the upcoming NOLA mission trip. That's awesome! 18 people in one week! WOW!!! Pastor K, your peeps at FFC are really moving to the mission statement of our church. ~ Grace, Grow, GO! And boy are they going! Am I disappointed that I'm not going back? Yea. But at the same time 20 people, many of whom have never gone on a mission trip before, are going to help & minister to those in need in NOLA while being blessed themselves through their generosity and experiences. That's incredible!!! Thanks to those who expressed their thoughts and prayed about my dilemma. PEACE :)

On My Mind....

2009-01-18T21:26:00.003-05:00

Lot's of things happening in the bigger and smaller world. Didn't get to run today but did get to take the boys outside and play for a couple of hours. Let them burn off some energy and get rid of their cabin fever. I did get a 38min. run in yesterday however. Even though I'm not sure that I'm going on this years New Orleans mission trip I did pick up an info. packet from Jeff. I'm going to continue praying for guidance on what I should do. Started working on our taxes yesterday. Looks promising. Been watching the football playoff games this evening. With the Colts out I'm hoping that it's the Cardinals vs. the Steelers in two weeks. Tomorrow is Rev. Martin Luther King Day. I don't have school but Big "C" does. In two days our new President will be sworn in. While there are a plethora of historical firsts with this inauguration, the TV stations are really over blowing the coverage. Then again, that's par for the course, isn't it? I can't recall the last time that soooooooo much was made about events/hopes/promises/change before the inauguration of a new President. Nor do I recall a President-Elect wielding so much attention and power before actually becoming President. True, our economy sucketh and much of the nation has been unhappy with Pres. Bush and his administration. Hope and pray that Obama's as good as his word and is able to fulfill all the expectations that've been placed upon his shoulders. It's apparent that if he is successful it'll be because of the grace and guidance of God. PEACE :)

Running On Empty

2009-01-16T20:04:00.003-05:00

It's official: I'm having a running downturn (similar to our economy's.) Because of the temp. and wind chill I haven't run since Tuesday, and that wasn't one of the brightest things I've ever done b/c of the temp. and wind chill then. Maybe, just maybe, I'll get a run in tomorrow. (I hope.) For those of you with sick minds that like this type of cold weather, enjoy it while it lasts. I'd rather have a mild 70* temp. with lots of sunshine! Bring on the heat!!!

Things On My Mind ....

2009-01-10T21:45:00.002-05:00

There's a couple of serious issues that have been on my mind lately. First, I seem to be having anger issues. When one of my sons acts up or misbehaves I've really had a short fuse. I'm not saying that I beat them, but I'm quick to pass judgment and commence with the punishment. My wife told me that she's noticed that I've been a "grumpy old man" for about six months. The sad thing, or one of them, is that if it's been for six months then I've been acting this way since shortly after I got back from the mission trip to New Orleans. I love my family and really feel I'm not setting the proper example for my sons concerning the correct way to handle discipline.
The second issue has to do with the upcoming New Orleans trip. I've already mentioned to a few people that I'd like to return there this summer. Now, however, I'm having second thoughts. Money is tight, but that's an excuse for practically everyone right now. I was going to do a triathlon the Saturday before the N.O. trip left, and I've already entered it, and now they've postponed the triathlon to the next Saturday, which means if I do the race I can't go to N.O. It wouldn't be so bad to not do the race except that I've committed to doing this with a partner because it's canoe, bike, and run so you have to do it as team. If I don't do the race then I'm letting my partner down. At the same time, I wonder if this is simply an excuse I'm using or that the devil is placing in my mind to prevent me from going back to New Orleans.
Since I'm talking about the New Orleans trip I might as well mention another thing. When our group was in N.O. it felt wonderful to help others, pray with them, and show them God's love and compassion. Since returning from Louisiana, however, I've had a hard time feeling or showing compassion & sympathy for others. Instead of exhibiting God's love to the world I feel like my heart has done a 180 and hardened against the less fortunate. My wife has also pointed this out as well.
I've mentioned before that I'm not near as faithful as I should be when it comes to prayer, but I really need to search for God's guidance in these matters.

Misc. Potpourri

2009-01-05T23:37:00.002-05:00

It's 11:38 pm and Ohio State is ahead. Can they hold off Texas? Ball State plays Tulsa tomorrow night. Should be a shoot out, but will the Cards come out on top? Thanks for the link to the daily Bible study and devotional website PK. I was in Kidzone on Sunday and missed your sermon, but I'll def. give the site a try. Pink, sweet new pad for the Teshuva! (What does 3:7 stand for? Obviously a passage from the Bible.) Started back to school today after a fantastic Christmas break. Honestly, didn't really want to go back, but a half-hour into the day had us back into the routine. Have a great week all!!! :]

Poor Attempt At Rhyming

2009-01-02T20:18:00.003-05:00

Little boys and all their toys with lots of little pieces. Scatter them about and hear them shout when the sweeper is at their feetses. Watch them scurry here and there to make sure the floor looks neatses. It's the only time they'll help their mom except when they're offered pizzas.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T02:09:00.002-05:00

I think the title says it all. Goodbye 2008. Welcome 2009!!!

Minor Details

2008-12-18T22:12:00.002-05:00

I don't know about you, but when I get really attached to a sports team I also get really emotional during their games. Take the Colts, for instance. When they win I'm elated, but when they lose I get really bummed or upset/angry. They're playing tonight against the Jags, a team that had their number earlier this season. I started watching the game but became very irritated about the plays the Colts were running and how easily the Jags were handling them. Then, Vanderjac, Mr. Automatic, missed an easy fieldgoal. Sooooooooooo, I turned the tv off. I figured it wasn't worth raising my blood pressure and that I could do without. Instead, I've been catching up on email and blog posts. I may check the score again in a bit, or maybe not, but I'm not going to get upset over a game that I have no control over. Merry Almost Christmas! PEACE

Whoosh Goes The Winter Wind!

2008-12-06T23:13:00.002-05:00

Wow, frigid temperatures, brisk wind, and snow. A runners paradise! NOT. But I got my run in today anyway. :) I went to the Coffee House in Farmland this morning and picked up Concannon Donuts for the family. Yum! While there I got to visit with Donna for a few minutes. It was great seeing her and meeting some of her co-workers. We went into Muncie this afternoon, dropped the boys off at the in laws, then ate at Johnny Carino's for our anniversary and did some Christmas shopping at Lowe's. Tomorrow, Dec. 7th ("a date which will live in infamy," Pearl Harbor day) will be our twelfth wedding anniversary. (I called JOY FM on Friday morning with an announcement.) It has been a wonderful 12 years! We've had our occasional struggles, but God has blessed us tremendously and we are very fortunate for all that He has provided to us.

Warmth, Sweet Warmth!!!

2008-12-02T20:07:00.003-05:00

Wow, do I dislike the cold! We ventured to Farmland for the "World Famous Christmas Walk in Historic Downtown Farmland, Indiana" earlier this evening. Although we didn't hold signs and give hugs, we received free hugs from great FFC peeps on every corner of downtown! The shops & stores were beautifully decorated in the festive Christmas spirit and terrific people gave us cookies, candies, warm cider, and hot chocolate. Yum! We got to see the live Nativity, town Christmas tree, and Santa (two of them, actually!) However, my hands were freezing and numb by the time we climbed into the van and left. I felt bad about leaving with Jeff, PK, the Skillmans, the Blacks, and many other FFC people standing in the frigid air to shower hugs and love upon others. My wife says I'm a "weenie," but I really dislike the cold. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy snow, even shoveling it, but I really, really don't like the cold! I've already told Melissa that when I'm older and retired I'm going to head south during the cold months. She says that she's staying home, in Indiana, and that she'll see me when I come back. It'll be interesting about nineteen years from now to see what transpires. :] The family is watching "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" right now. Enjoy the holidays and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Three Special Days

2008-11-26T23:21:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday and yesterday I got to spend some wonderful time with my eldest son. We had a great time together and I cherish the days like these that we get to spend in each others company. Today was Little "C"s turn. After I went for a run, we had a sword fight/dual in the garage. Then the two of us went into Muncie and ate lunch together. I thought he'd pick BK or McD's, but he chose the Red Sun Chinese Buffet on Wheeling Ave. He was hoping for crab legs but they didn't have any on the buffet today. None the less, he still ate very well. Then we visited our favorite comic book store, Alter Ego, on McGalliard. Next we stopped at Target to purchase some toys for the Toys for Tots drive at my school. While there we also checked out the computer/video games selection and flat panel tv's. Then it was off to Kohl's so Little "C" could pick out a Christmas present for his mom (I hope she likes it.)

This evening our family went to my brother- and sister-in laws for a birthday party for a niece and a great pre-Thanksgiving meal consisting of chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, corn, sweet potato pie, and an ice cream birthday cake. The kids had a great time playing golf and bowling on a Wii, but my two stinkers fought/argued most of the way home. Peace was restored a few hours ago and a calm, serene atmosphere permeates our house now. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

Perfect - O, 12-0!!!

2008-11-26T00:06:00.003-05:00

Took Big "C" to his first college football game tonight! We watched the Ball State Cards roll over Western Michigan to go perfect on the season(12-0) and rack up 45 points! We dressed for the weather and had an incredible experience (except for all the profanity being slung around in the crowd.) We had a long talk about that! This was the first BSU game I'd been to since I graduated back in '92.

Spent over four hours in the emergency room last night with Little "C". We were play-fighting, he hit my arm cross-wise, then grabbed his arm and started crying. The x-rays didn't show a break, and the specialist he saw this morning couldn't find anything, but we're all in agreement that there's something not right. He's in a splint for at least a week. :(

I don't have school tomorrow!!! WooT! Little "C" and I are going into Muncie to do a little shopping and eat lunch together. Where, you ask? Probably BK or McD's. Hope my little "vacation" goes better than PK's! (Sry that you're feeling so bad PK!)

What Was I Thinking?

2008-11-22T22:03:00.003-05:00

It's been a cold day but at least I'm inside and have a warm, soft blanket. This morning Big "C" got me up early so he could watch cartoons. We turned the TV on and as he watched TMNT I dozed on the couch. Went for a run in the balmy 25-degrees weather, then Big "C" and I went with his cub scout pack/den to an indoor archery range in Anderson. It was interesting to watch and he had a great time, although Little "C" was upset that he didn't get to go. When we got home my crazy wife had started putting up our outdoor Christmas lights & decorations. Soooooo we froze for awhile and got everything (almost) up. Big "C" and I played chess this evening. I creamed him the first game and was demolishing him the second game when he complained "that I wasn't taking it easy on him." I took pity on him and let him capture my queen, then the little stinker managed to get a stalemate (draw). That's the second time that we've had a stalemate (but he hasn't beaten me. Yet.) Tonight we watched "Wall-E." It was pretty good, although there were a few moments I thought I would doze off when the movie was slow.

Now, to a couple of other items of business. Pastor Kris, sorry to hear that you have such a tough cold. Wish I could hear your Barry White impression tomorrow, but I'm working in Big Kidz Zone. Nate, hope your stomach and cold get better and that you had an enjoyable day of rest. Also nice to hear that your doctor is a "psychic." Everyone who was part of last summer's NOLA trip needs to consider if we should have another get-together. I know Brenda and Jeff are starting to plan for the upcoming summer. I've started a Facebook page, so now I have a blog and pages on Facebook and MySpace. I think I'm spending too much time on the computer!

Praise Him In The Storm

2008-11-19T23:30:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who's been offering advice on my struggles with prayer! (Nate, Pink, Sue, PK, Dana, etc.) While driving home today, listening to Joy FM, I was thinking on the question, "Can a song/singing be prayer?" As several of you mentioned, and I concur, yes, it can. If it's not prayer, as in you aren't speaking to God but merely singing a "joyful noise" to the Lord, I would think that would fall into the category of offering "praise" to Him. As they say in "Facing the Giants," we'll praise God if we win and praise Him if we lose. A song we sang when I was little was "praise Him, praise Him, all you little children, God is love, God is love." (Repeat.) PEACE

Touched

2008-11-18T22:24:00.002-05:00

In my last blog I mentioned that something has slowly dissipated since we returned home from NOLA and received some wonderful advice from Sue, Pastor K, and Dana. Tonight I got to spend some time talking with Pastor Jeff, then Nathan left a "pick me up" comment. I think God is using these people as guideposts to show me the path that He wants me to follow.
I still have a lot to do concerning prayer. I've decided, or been reminded, that part of prayer is knowing and understanding God's word ~ so I need to include time to read my Bible and meditate on His word. That's something else I tend not to do other than on Sundays.
Is singing, I mean heartfelt singing, with/to the radio a form of prayer? I do know that we're instructed in the Bible to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord." I'm not sure that my singing is joyful (more like tearful) but I like to listen to JOY FM in my car and often sing along with the songs that I know (when no one else is with me but God.) When I'm running I occasionally sing a song in my head (ex. something from Chris Tomlin or Casting Crowns.) Is that praying or just music in my mind? Wouldn't prayer have to be directed specifically to God? If so, then the singing probably isn't the same thing as praying. ...And now I'm starting to ramble. PEACE

Why? ~ Prayer?

2008-11-16T22:15:00.004-05:00

Pastor Kris's message today about "why God doesn't answer our prayers" has me pondering my own prayer life, or lack thereof. I pray at church. We pray before meals, giving thanks to God. Outside of those two events, however, I can't recall many times I've prayed. There have been a few times when a situation arises or a person is in dire need of divine intervention that I've prayed, but I don't normally pray about things. I write all this because, well, this deeply troubles me. I need to think on this AND pray about this.
Two things I've come up with thus far today are: 1) I rely too much on myself and live too much in this world and don't ask enough for help or guidance from God. 2)Outside of church, am I really living a Christian life? I'm not sure I have the answer to this one yet, but some of the things that have crossed my mind as a response worry me.
When I was with the group in N.O.L.A. (New Orleans, Louisiana) I stepped outside my normal shell/routine and prayed a lot. That hasn't happened much since we've been back and, frankly, I miss that. When I was a summer church camp counselor I prayed and led devotions on a daily basis, but not much since. I've also noticed over the last few months that the fire/passion I had when we first got back from NOLA has been smothered to only a few embers. I want that feeling of really being alive and helping others back.

YUM!!!

2008-11-15T21:43:00.002-05:00

Wow, if you didn't make it to the chicken & noodles dinner at FFC tonight you missed an awesome meal! It was de~li~cious!!! Kudos to the cooks and all who prepared the fantastic feast. PLUS, we had snow today! Yea, winter is almost here, which means summer is that much closer!!! :-]

Why?

2008-11-09T21:58:00.004-05:00

"Why?" is the title/theme of the current sermon series at FFC (ie. Farmland Friends Church.) I missed last week b/c of working in Big Kidz Zone and need to listen to Pastor Kris talk about "Why don't I always feel God?" on Podcast. Pastor Debbie Howell did a fantastic job dealing with "Why?" today. "Why would we live without God? and Why do we need to follow Jesus?"

If you were wondering "why" I posted yesterday about not getting another chance at many things in life, it's because of a runner I've coached for several years. She showed great talent in jr. high and qualified to the Ohio State XC Meet her freshman year. Since then she ran well but never quite good enough to make it back and many people told her "you'll do it next year." Well, this is her senior year and, on the day of our Regional Meet a few weeks ago, her older sister got married. She wasn't able to race and missed her final chance to make it back to the state meet in XC. Fortunately, barring injury or unforeseen circumstances, there's "still track this spring!" (Ever the optimist!)

This week in my government classes I'm going to give a new writing assignment that Pastor Pink gave me the idea for. My students are going to have to write about what they think (opinion) the role(s) of our government is/are. I'm going to help them get started with some key descriptive words like: provide, protect, serve, defend, ensure. They'll have to fill in the rest. I want them to think about the roles and responsibilities of our government and decide for themselves what they think is important. Isn't that, after all, the major difference between the various political parties and philosophies?

The Myth: It's Never Too Late

2008-11-07T21:53:00.002-05:00

Hello all! It's been a couple of weeks since I've posted, primarily because 1) I've been preoccupied, 2) I haven't felt like it, and 3) I've been procrastinating.

Have you ever thought of doing something, or attempted it once or twice, then said, "Oh well, I'll do it later" or "Maybe next time" or "There's always next year?" What guarantee do we have that another chance will come along? NONE. Take advantage of each opportunity and, as Tim McGraw sings, "Live like you were dying." In reality, we are. Don't let the moments pass or the chances go to waste. Say "yes," listen to what God is telling you, and "just do it." (Nike)

If you've been away, we have a new president-elect, Barack Obama. He wasn't my first choice, but I'll give him a chance before I start criticizing him. Who knows, he may surprise us. (In a good way.)

If you get the chance, check out Pastor Pink's last couple of posts. He's a deep thinker with a keen mind. He grasps the less obvious issues and defines his position and opinions with solid, persuasive reasoning.

Brief Runnin News & Me

2008-10-19T22:10:00.002-04:00

Just to warn you: This one's going to be a two-parter. First, we had our district meet yesterday, which would be the equivalent to regionals in Indiana (I think.) Our girls team was third, which qualified them to regionals next week (YEAH!), but two of my top three runners won't be there b/c their sister is getting married (BOO! for them not being there.) I enjoyed the half-marathon that I ran last weekend so much that I'm going to run one on Nov. 8th and, maybe, one on Nov. 1st. November 1st is the day of the State Meet in Ohio, so if the one really good runner I have left qualifies I won't run the half on that day in Indy. Next Sunday two of my jr. high runners are going to compete in the Ohio Middle School XC State Championships in Dublin, Ohio.

A couple of days ago TJ posted some things that most people don't know about her and it got me thinking, "Is there anything else that people don't know about me?"
- Probably not. :]

Updates & Such

2008-10-12T17:28:00.002-04:00

Firstly, Pastor Kris, I can relate regarding the head cold. I've barely had a voice for the last two days, which made our conference cross-country meet yesterday really interesting. Every time I tried to yell or talk loud to the team my voice would "crack." I really don't want to relive my pre-teen years again!
The meet was a success for our h.s. girls team, which won the conference title by 18 points. My "varsity" team members finished 3rd, 4th, 6th, 9th, 15th, 16th, and 23rd. The two girls (sisters) who finished 3rd and 6th overall won't be at the Regional Meet, assuming we qualify, b/c their sister PLANNED HER WEDDING FOR THAT DAY!!! It's caused a lot of frustration, sadness, and streams of tears. Most of us have reconciled ourselves to the fact that they won't be there, however. Our jr. high girls team was Runner-Up in the conference and our top runner was 3rd overall (she's a 7th grader.)
A young lady who ran both cross-country and track for me several years ago got married yesterday. We couldn't make the wedding, but we went to the reception for a couple of hours. (The food was REALLY good!) The boys had had enough after two hours! After we got home and put the boys to bed I crashed. Usually I don't go to bed 'til about 11:30, so you know I was tired if I fell asleep at 9:30.
The half-marathon was okay, but not great. Due to construction they had to alter the course and almost everyone was misdirected at one point. I was running pretty well up 'til then. About 40 people that I was ahead of got in front of me at the mixup and I added at least two minutes to that mile (went from about 6:40 to 8:43 pace.) Over the next two miles I tried to make up lost ground (and get back to the place where I was before) so my mile splits were 6:30 and 6:33. HUGE, dumb mistake! This just made my legs tired and I've been struggling with a sore hip for the last three weeks anyways. My hip started to bother me and, by overcompensating for that, I strained my right lower quad muscle. I finished the race, but not where or in the time that I wanted. The last two miles were really a struggle in which I was just focused on getting to the finish line. My time, unofficially was 1:30:51. I was shooting for around 1:28:00, so if it hadn't been for that two minute detour and my hairbrained running afterward I might have made it. Oh well, time to let my body heal. I did get to see a lot of runners/people that I know after the race, which was nice. The great thing about running is that there's the next race to look forward too. Or not. Strangely enough, it's the running that I enjoy, not the racing! :P

Anticipation

2008-10-10T23:02:00.002-04:00

Our economic world as we have known it may be coming to an end, but I'm anxious about something else. Tomorrow (Sat.) is our conference cross-country meet. For the third year in a row our high school girls team should win the conference title. As long as everyone stays healthy and finishes where they should no one else will even be close to us. It's the unknown that is so nerve-racking! I'll be nervous the whole time until the race is over and we learn who wins.
In the big scheme of life this race and sport really don't mean much, but it's a small pleasure that the Lord allows me to take part in that I really enjoy. In our conference the first 15 individuals to finish are name "First Team All-Conference." We're hoping to get eight of our runners into the top 15. We're not trying to be greedy. It'd be nice to have the hard work that the girls have done throughout the season pay off this last time, especially since so many of them are seniors.
I won't be at FFC on Sunday. Two Sundays in a row, but I'll listen to the messages through the internet. I'm running a half-marathon in Dayton, OH, Sunday morning at 9:00 am and won't finish until about 10:30 am. As the second service is beginning say a brief prayer that I've safely "finished the race" please. :] Lord willing, I'll be back next Sunday. PEACE

Short & Sweet

2008-10-05T22:03:00.002-04:00

I was impressed with Nathan's post from a few days ago, so I thought I'd give it a try since my posts tend to be sooooooooo long! :P

Today ~ Sunday, 10/5
CPR Recertification Course (Lasted 2 1/2 hours)
Picked up "Arbys" (Yum)
Watched the Colts WIN
Graded government tests
Watched the Bengals lose (Again)
Graded some more tests
Talked to parents ~ first time in almost 2 weeks
Unloaded wood
Ate supper
Watched the "Amazing Race"
Finished grading the tests
Blogged :]

To Worry, Or Not To Worry?

2008-09-29T22:09:00.002-04:00

That is the question, isn't it? After listening to the news on the way home from school today I had several worries. Would the banking system start to collapse now that the Bail-Out Plan had been soundly defeated in the House and the Stock Market had taken such a huge loss? Would we lose our savings? Was this the beginning of a second "great depression?" Should we withdraw our money and stock up on non-parishable food items? Should I check into purchasing a firearm? I went running with these questions in my head and considered them during my 45 min. jaunt. The answer to them, or at least the solution to most of them, became very clear. Prayer. There are steps we might take to ensure the security of some of our earthly possesions, but the first and last steps need to be "prayer." So that's what I'm going to do. Not buy a firearm or buy lots of food or withdraw our savings (<-yet). I'm going to pray and have faith that God will see us through this challenging time. Through God all things are possible. He will make His will known to us. His will be done. Amen.

Cross-Country and What-Not

2008-09-27T21:49:00.003-04:00

Only two weeks away from our conference cross-country meet. I only have two high school boys running for me this year, but I've got 12 high school girls and 7 jr. high girls. Our high school girls team was ranked 20th in the State this past week in the Div. III coaches poll (no, I don't vote in it.) The invitational that we were at today, the Botkins "Best in the West" Invite, included two other state ranked teams. (They both beat us, but hey, they're also ranked higher than us.) We have two meets this coming week (Thur. & Sat.) Wait a minute, we've had two meets a week for the past three weeks, but they were Tues. and Sat. Two of my top 5 runners are dealing with injuries right now, but they'll be ready by the time we get to conference. -- I've got my own race in two weeks, the Dayton River Corridor Classique. It's a half-marathon in Dayton, Ohio, that I've done at least eight times. Last year was probably my best race, which I did in 1:26:?. I'm hoping that my right hip is feeling better by race day so I can give a full effort and possible shot for a 1:25:?.
Melissa's birthday is next Saturday and, yes, I have a meet that day. She won't give me any ideas of what to get her, so I guess I'll have to be creative and/or spontaneous. We're hoping for a date next Saturday night. ;)-

Go Colts!

2008-09-07T22:05:00.004-04:00

I've been watching the first half of the Colts game. Chicago has looked like a team that's hungry/motivated and ready to play, while the Colts have looked too mellow and lack luster. Does anyone else get pumped for a Colts game and when they don't do well/lose feel really bummed? I try not to get too hyped so that I won't be disappointed if they lose, but I'm still not happy with how they're playing. Are they done/have they lost? No, and I realize the game isn't over yet. The optimist in me still believes that they'll pull it off in the end.
To my fellow "P-Town" inhabitants, you won't have to wear earplugs when I come driving into the neighborhood anymore. I got a "newer" car two days ago and I'm REALLY happy with it! My old Sunbird has over 286,000 miles on it and a noisy muffler. (Plus a few rust spots.) If ya know someone that is looking for a vehicle to get them to work and back home let them know about my "blue bomber."
It was great to see Pastor Jeff, Brenda, Donna, Nathan, Kevin, Brent, and Emily at FFC this morning! And even better that I got to speak with several of them, if only for a few moments. Now that school and the cross-country season are underway my schedule is very hectic and my mind is on a lot of different topics. Unfortunately, most of those topics don't include FFC, the New Orleans trip and group that journeyed together, or meditation and prayer. Two blessings for me are the Sunday service at FFC and having an FM radio so that I can listen to Joy-FM while driving.
Hope everyone has a super week! (The Colts are about to score!!!) :]

It's HOT!

2008-09-02T22:34:00.002-04:00

Okay, thought I'd state the obvious. :) However, I love running in the heat. After running hills at practice today, I ran again when I got home. Glad to hear that New Orleans survived Gustav and Carpenters House 2 suvived unscathed. The miracles of God are wondrous and the might of His power amazing to behold! Maybe we'll get some of the leftover rain and have green lawns once again. If you get the chance, stop over at Nate's blog and watch his new music video, "Chosen." Peace :]

Snoring Or Grouchy

2008-08-23T23:04:00.003-04:00

We had our second meet of the season today and finished third for the second time. (Against the preseason #1 and #2 ranked D3 teams in the state.) Our high school girls team is running very well and I'm very pleased with their performance.
Ran the course at our meet today and ran Monroe Central's course on my way home. All told I got in around seven miles. :]
I've been watching the final events of the Olympics this evening. The U.S. men ran great in the marathon (9th, 10th, and 22nd?). The womens 4x400 had a dramatic come from behind victory for the gold and the mens 4x400 dominated their competition and set a new Olympic record. The reason I'm going to be soooooooooo tired tomorrow is because I'm going to stay up and watch the gold medal mens basketball game that doesn't even come on until 2:30am! I'll apologize now to Pastor Kris if he hears me snoring during his message, although I'm sure that Melissa will elbow me in the ribs if she notices that I'm nodding off. lol
I'm very proud of Little "C" this evening as he gained the courage to swim alone/without assistance (other than his floaties) in the neighbors pool! He was having so much fun and it was a joy to watch him as he continues to grow.

So It Begins ....

2008-08-21T00:21:00.004-04:00

As most of you are aware, I coach cross-country and track & field. Yesterday the 2008 cross-country season got underway as we traveled to Indian Lake to compete in a twelve team invitational. Only our high school girls team raced. We finished 3rd and had a lot of decent individual performances, especially for our first meet. Our top three harriers placed 3rd, 5th, and 6th. Unfortunately, our #4 runner wasn't there (b/c of the "Great" Darke County Fair) and we struggle at the #5 and #6 positions (they were 43rd and 45th yesterday). There were 116 girls in the race. We race again this Saturday at the Bob Schul Invitational in West Milton where we'll face two of the toughest teams in the state (they were 1st and 3rd in the state meet last year.) If you're an Olympic and track & field fan you have probably heard of Bob Schul. He won the gold medal in the 5000m race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. However, he and the U.S. Olympic Committee and USATF don't get along, so they give him as little recognition as possible. He's from West Milton, Ohio, which is why the meet is named after him. (Makes since, huh?) BTW, he's one of only five Americans to ever win an Olympic gold medal in a distance event and the only American to ever win gold in the 5000m race.

My sprint triathlon went well last weekend. The swim wasn't so great, but the bike and run really helped and I placed 9th overall (up from 13th last year.) It was a "sprint" because it consisted of a 500m swim, 16 miles biking, and a 5K run. On Sunday afternoon I went to Hagerstown and ran a race on their cross-country course. They have the hilliest, toughest course that I've EVER run on. I placed 11th and was thrilled with my time, for that course, of 21:15!

It's Official

2008-08-09T23:26:00.004-04:00

Well, the waiting is over. I'm officially 40 years old. Honestly, I don't feel any different than I did yesterday. Ran a 5K (3.1 miles) race this morning in Ohio, finishing 3rd in my age group (40-44) and 21st overall. Not sure how many total competitors there were.

Enjoying watching the Olympics sporadically today. Phelps won his first gold medal. Wish I were in Jamaica with Pastor K and rest of the crew, but it's been nice spending the day with my family. Sounds like they've had some beautiful scenery amidst the bumpy roads and buildings in need of repair. Praying for their safety and success both in aiding those in need and spreading God's message.

Can't wait to hear Ryan McAllisters' message tomorrow on "What Men Want." Should be very interesting! Heard that Pastor K told him not to pull any punches. We'll see how many dirty looks he gets after the service from the female attendees. We're heading over to my parents' in Ohio for a cookout and homemade ice cream after church. Yum! May get to go swimming at my sisters afterward. Yes!

Does anyone have any experience or comments/criticisms concerning the Dodge Caliber? Looking at one that I'm considering purchasing. Thanks in advance! :]

SUMMER OLYMPICS ARE HERE

2008-08-08T23:05:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure why, maybe it's because I was born during an Olympic year (1968), but I've always enjoyed and been fascinated by the Summer Olympics. When I was (much) younger, I had a dream of competing in the Olympics in the decathlon. Probably Bruce Jenner had something to do with that. I realize that idea was a young, fanciful kids fantasy, but for a time I actually believed that I could do that. Back in 1996, when the Summer Olympics were in Atlanta, GA, I bought tickets for Melissa and I and we went to two days of track & field. It was incredible! At the time we said that we wanted to go to Australia in 2000, but that was another dream that went unrealized. The parade of nations is r-e-a-l-l-y long, but the opening ceremonies and lighting of the Olympic torch are my favorites on the first night. I'll be in front of the TV a lot over the next couple weeks watching the various sports, although track & field is my favorite.

Early tomorrow morning I'm going over to Ohio to run in a 5K race with a couple of former athletes that I've coached. They are both much younger than me, but I guarantee that I'll beat at least one of them. Tomorrow is also my 40th birthday, so I'll be racing in a higher/older age division, which "should" benefit me. Hope everyone has a great weekend!!! :]

Newer Happenings & Gunk

2008-08-06T22:37:00.002-04:00

Vacation Bible School, also known as "Mega Sports Camp," has been a neat experience this week. It's been fun, if a little taxing at times, teaching the kids soccer techniques and watching them grow in their skills and confidence. Only one day left. :(

I've survived cross-country practice thus far this week too. There are only two high school boys out, but on the bright side there are thirteen high school girls and seven jr. high girls. Practices have been enjoyable and the kids don't whine! They have been working very hard.

My training for the upcoming triathlon has been coming along nicely, although I'm still a little worried about the swimming portion of the race. I know I can swim the distance, but the competitor in me wants to do better than I probably will. I may run a 5K race on Sat. morning in Ohio, which, coincidentally, is also my 40th birthday. On the bright side, I'll get to race up in a new age division. :]

Highest Point in Indiana

2008-08-02T21:35:00.002-04:00

We thought we'd venture to Indiana's highest point, which is north of Richmond and northeast of Fountain City between St. Rt. 27 and St. Rt. 227. A whopping elevation of 1,257 feet made it difficult to breath at times, but we survived the experience. Then we journeyed to the great metropolis of Union City for their Stateline Heritage Days Festival. Big "C" climbed all the way to the top of the rock wall!!! Little "C" got to run through a funhouse maze! Then we ate Bowman's Texas Tenderloins (they're huge!), a "bucket" of fries, and ice cream! YUM!! Saw Lacey and Jaycee from the New Orleans group there having fun. ~~ Tonight "the Boys" are camping out in the tent in the back yard! Wish us luck and say a prayer for us! Cya in church tomorrow!!! (Plus tomorrow is the start of Mega Sports Camp! YEAH!)

Bumper Boats!

2008-07-31T22:21:00.003-04:00

As almost all of you are aware, it was hot today. We played baseball in the front yard with the neighbors, then decided that this would be a great day to go into Muncie to the Slick Track and ride the bumper boats. It was a blast!!! Little "C" and I on one bb and Melissa and Big "C" on the other. Not only do you "bump" into each other, but the boats have a massive squirt gun on them that you can douse each other with. We rode them twice and came home soaked! Big "C" had his baseball awards at the diamond in "P-town," then we journeyed into Muncie to dine at "Eatza Pizza" on Wheeling Avenue. Lots of choices and good food! (I ate too much! Is gluttony a sin?) Plus the added bonus of watching "Sponge Bob" and "X Games" on the tv.

Tomorrow night, weather permitting, we're setting up the tent in the backyard and "the boyz" are "camping out!" We'll see how long everyone lasts and how much rest we actually get. Get the squirt guns and hoses ready because tomorrow is supposed to be a hot one!!!!!! Enjoy your A/C! ~PEACE :]

Getting Too Old For This

2008-07-29T22:20:00.003-04:00

I'm pooped! (No, I didn't say that "I'm poop.") I'm tired, and wondering what I'm still doing on the computer. For the second day in a row, I ran with some of my cross-country kids in Ohio, then drove to Winchester and swam laps in the pool. This evening I went to the Muncie Reservoir and ran 8 miles with the Wapahani >-CC-> team at a good pace. A few years ago I could have done this with no/little problem. I think I'm feeling my age b/c I'm not sleepy tired, just physically exhausted right now. Soooooo, without further adeu, "good night." I'm going to get some rest.

Oh, Pastor Kris, loved the YouTube footage of the failed marriage proposal. Pastor Pink, I almost always come to a complete stop at stop signs, even the 4-way there in Farmland. Mindy Pfohl, we're praying for you! Brenda Cox, welcome to "our world." To the New Orleans group, it was wonderful seeing all of you again and reminiscing. Pastor Jeff & family, thanks for allowing us to come into your home. Now good night all!

On The Road Again

2008-07-27T23:44:00.004-04:00

Well, my summer if officially over. Cross-country conditioning starts tomorrow and mandatory practice begins as week from tomorrow, with our first meet in three weeks. Still have a few minor things planned, but it's back to the 45 minute commute and grind for me. No more loafing around at a leisurely, lazy pace.

I thoroughly enjoyed the messages we've had over the last few weeks as we worked through the book of Philippians. Today's message by Pastor Kris was no different. Two things I noted: 1) while I still have sin in my life and there are struggles that I face, most of the time I'm pretty content with things; 2) the significance for me of the passage from Phil. 4:13 plus the Hoyt father & son images always seems to get to me. The first is troubling and the second is inspirational. If you haven't noticed before, I have the video that PK showed at the bottom of this blog. I used it during track season, showing it to my high school girls team as a motivation tool before our conference finals. I get choked up every time I watch that video, the struggles that the father goes through, and the intense/pure euphoria that his son experiences by finishing and sharing in that endeavor. I can relate to the effort & struggle of the father's activities, but I can't comprehend how we performs those feats towing/hauling/pushing his grown son for those distances. "I CAN do everything through him who gives me strength. OR I CAN do all things in him who strengthens me."

Went to my aunt and uncle's 25th wedding anniversary party this afternoon, then on to my sister's house for swimming in their pool. The water temp. was a balmy 92 degrees. That's warmer than my bathwater!!! Oh, sorry, TMI. We had a really nice time visiting together, plus I got to swim lots of laps on my day off from running. It was fun playing in the pool with the two squirrels that live in our house too. :]

FAMILY Vacation

2008-07-25T01:23:00.003-04:00

We left after the boy's swim lessons on Tuesday morning for northern Kentucky and the Creation Museum. After stopping to eat at a KFC/Taco Bell (Does it get much better than that???) we hauled it down around 275 across the Ohio River to the Museum. It was really fascinating, and the whole family enjoyed it! Although the boys really just liked looking at the dinosaurs and didn't want to read much. The displays gave some fascinating insight, but they also left me with several questions that I'm trying to figure out with God's help.
~ Found a hotel on the north side of Cincy (finally, first 3 were booked) and had a great supper at Ruby Tuesday's. Then it was off to the pool for an evening swim. Back in the room, I tried to convince Melissa that we need a 42" flat screen tv like the one that was in our room. (I don't think it worked.(
~ On Wed., after breakfast, we headed to King's Island! The first thing we "had" to do was go to the top of the Eiffel Tower and get a lay of the land. (The boys thought they'd be able to see our van from up there.) Then it was off to the kidz rides area. Big "C" rode his first roller coaster, then his second, and finally his third. We ate lunch at "Chick Fill-A!" YUM! Somewhere in there we went to the water park for about 2 1/2 hours. After the fireworks, it was on the road again back to "P-town!" Couldn't believe how many people we ran into that we knew! Wow!
~ Disappointed that I wasn't aware that the Governor was in Farmland today and I could have had a chat with him and eaten some "free" food that the tax-payers of Indiana (oh, yea, that's me) dolled out. Shucks! Hope it was good! :]

Me Too, Me Too!!!

2008-07-21T23:29:00.002-04:00

First let me admit that I'm not always the most original person around. I know that Pastor Kris has already announced his candidacy. Having said that, I want to announce that I'm officially throwing my hat into the 2008 presidential race as a candidate for President of the United States. I already know that several of my students who are of eligible age will vote for me, so I've already got Al Gore beat. In November, after I finish following in Barack Obama's footsteps and tour Iraq and the Middle East and promise to withdraw all U.S. troops by 2010, VOTE FOR TODD MILLER for President!!!

The preceding message was payed for from the Miller Family checking account. "I'm Todd Miller, and I approve this message."

He's Growing Up

2008-07-21T23:21:00.002-04:00

Big "C" (aka Conner) had swim lessons today. He just turned 8 yesterday and today he really impressed me. He swam farther than his mom and I thought he could. He didn't show any fear when asked to try new things. They had him jump of the diving board in the deep end (WHICH HE'S NEVER DONE BEFORE) and he did it without hesitation or trepidation. Then he asked if he could do it again! Little "C" (aka Carter) was also at swim lessons, but he's in that stage where putting your face in the water or submerging your head is a scary thing. I believe that he'll get better as the week goes on.
Tomorrow, after swim lessons, we're leaving for Cincinnati. We're going to the Creation Museum! Then we'll find a hotel with a pool and swim, then sleep. The day after tomorrow (No, not the movie.) we're going to Kings Island! Four tired people will drag themselves back home and into bed on Wednesday night. :-] ttyl

Eight!

2008-07-21T00:36:00.003-04:00

Today (yesterday?) was Big "C"s 8th birthday! We rushed out of church, grabbed a quick bite at home, then headed into "Crazy Muncie" to Ball State University. We rented the pool in the old Ball Gymnasium for two hours and had lots of family in for a birthday pool party. (Cake included!) Big "C" had a great day and made lots of $$$ to put into his bank account for college (or a rainy day.) Hope you had a stupendous Sunday!

FYI ~ Found a new group (for me) that I like. Check out the Newsboys vidoe at the bottom of my page. Really like this music video. If you watch it, and you know me, you'll understand why I like it! ;-]

Me & My Gang

2008-07-18T23:58:00.002-04:00

Today was "the boys" day together! We got up, ate breakfast, got dressed and grabbed our compasses (ok, the boys did) and water bottles, and headed over to McVey Memorial Forest on St. Rt. 1 northwest of Farmland. We'd never been there before and I'd driven by the place several times and thought, "we should come hiking here sometime." It was fun and adventurous at first, but then the boys thought it was just hot, tiring, and there were too many bugs pestering them. So we came home and I installed "Age of Empires III" and Big "C" played while Little "C" watched and I fixed lunch (mac & cheese and popcorn chicken). Afterward we headed into the megametropolis of Muncie to see how mom's rummage sale was going.
Big "C" had his last regular season baseball game tonight. They lost and their record is 3-7, but he got his second hit of the season tonight! Yeah!!! I'm very proud of him for not giving up or quitting. We've practiced and practiced and tonight it payed off. You should have seen the big grin on his face! (He almost got out because he was too busy/surprised watching the ball that he almost forgot to run to first base.) After the game we went to the "Chocolate Moose" in historic downtown Farmland and ate some okay food that is really overpriced. (But hey, they've got to make a living too.) Then it was home, a family stroll around the block, chasing after and catching lightning bugs/fireflies, playing tag, and getting eaten by mosquitoes while chatting with the neighbors.
Before I head off to lala land I'm going to post some items for sale on eBay and maybe play "Guild Wars" for awhile. Why not? Everyone else is sleeping. BTW, if you want to read a really good, inspiring post, go check out Emily Sebree's latest. PEACE :]

HUGE Sigh of Relief

2008-07-17T23:49:00.002-04:00

Here's the story: almost two weeks ago I took this interesting history class at Ashland University in Ohio. For two graduate credit hours all I had to do was type a 15-20 page paper on a topic assigned by one of the professors. I FINALLY FINISHED IT!!! Woot! It's a 16 page document on the views of Abraham Lincoln concerning abolition, slavery, and temperance, derived from two speeches that he gave long before he became the 16th president. I learned a lot, although the topic wouldn't have been in my top ten choices, and I have a much deeper understanding and greater respect for President Lincoln. Let me know if you want to read my paper some time and I'll send you a copy. (Especially, according to my wife, if you need something to help you fall asleep at night.) BTW, for those of you who teach or work with people who struggle with life's challenges, I recommend reading A. Lincolns "Temperance Address" that he delivered in 1842. It has some great insights and advice. Have a freaky Friday and wonderful weekend! :-]

Funday Friday

2008-07-11T20:48:00.004-04:00

Wow! What a day! Here's the rundown: watched part of the "Transformers" movie with the boys. Went for a run (30 min.), then bike riding (40 min.), then for a run again (another 30 min.). In case you're wondering what possessed me to do that, I'm training to do either a duathlon (run, bike, run) or triathlon (swim, bike, run) in August. (I ran for 55min. yesterday.) And Nate, to respond to your inquiry, I do sometimes run out of energy. (Just not today.) :]

After lunch, the Miller's trekked over to Winchester to go swimming at the Goodrich Park Pool. The boys had a great time. Little "C" is getting used to the water, which is a good thing considering he'll be taking swim lessons in a few weeks, as will Big "C". I swam several laps (10, I think), and Melissa got to work on her tan. Arrived home and grilled supper, then had family clean-up time in the back room. (In other words, the boys had been playing and had a HUGE mess, so we "helped" them clean up.) Started a fire in the pit, invited the neighbors over, and ate S'mores. Pastor Kris, I yelled over toward your house to invite you, but you must not have heard. Maybe next time. ;) Just finished giving Little "C" a bath. We all smelled like smoke from the damp wood used for the fire.

I should get started on the research paper that I have to do for the class I took last week. That would be the smart and prudent thing to do. But as I've confessed before, I'm a procrastinator, so it may OR may not happen tonight. Hope your Friday was fun! If not, have a super Saturday!

The Days of Our Lives

2008-07-09T22:30:00.003-04:00

Had a great family day today! Checked the radar after we got up and decided that the rain was over, so we loaded up the truck and we moved to Beverly, ... err, sorry, wrong song. We put the fishing gear in the van, got a fishing license and bait (wax worms & minnows), stopped at the Prairie Creek Park Office to get a bank permit (to fish from the bank), and went exploring. We thought we'd found the perfect spot to fish, but we decided to eat lunch first. After eating PB&J sandwhiches, I hiked around and decided that there was a better place further up the road. So it was noon before we even started fishing. Well, actually the boys started fishing. This was Little "C"'s first fishing trip, and he caught the first two fish, both within about ten minutes from the time we started. Then Big "C" caught a fish. (None of them were big enough to keep, but we took pictures.) Little "C" was done fishing fifteen minutes after he started, so I tried to fish with Big "C" but rebaiting his hook was what I mostly did. He was casting on his own by the third hour.

We made a jaunt into the south side Wal-Mart, then came home to fill the compact size family pool. The boys were excited that the fire truck was coming to fill the pool, which holds about 900 gallons. As the water was rising they decided to hop in and "help" smooth the sides out (aka "play.") Then we realized two things as the pool filled: 1) the east end was sloping too much and with just a little pressure the water started running over the side; and 2) there were 3-4 leaks in the one pump hose and water was spraying out. I ran and got the duct tape and electrical tape and wrapped the hose in layers (with visions of "RED GREEN" running through my head), which slowed the leaks to a trickle. We deliberated and decided to get a new hose tomorrow because we had a pool party to go to for Big "C"'s baseball team.

We had a great time at the pool party, which included grilled hot dogs and other party foods. When we arrived home Melissa yelled for me to come outback of the house. We discovered that almost all the water had drained from the pool, either from a new or undiscovered leak or from the hose that we'd attempted to repair but failed. Anyway, we made a nice donation to the fire department and we'll be making a different type of donation to the garbage heap tomorrow.

A Confession

2008-07-08T23:04:00.002-04:00

I was running today (no surprise there), pushing Little "C" in the jogging stroller while Big "C" rode his bike along with us through "P-town." I was tired, hot, and a little irritated with Big "C" because he hadn't been paying close attention to where he was riding and I was afraid that he was going to wreck or get hit. Also, Little "C" kept trying to boss me and Big "C" around, which I wasn't in the mood for. ~ Then, as we turned into an alley, one of three boys that was walking by yelled the original phrase, "Run, Forrest, run!" I've heard that many times and I generally ignore what most people say while I'm running because I often hear flippant remarks. -- However, instead of keeping my mouth closed I hollered back a comment that went something like, "Why don't you start running? Oh, you probably can't because you're fat!" --Before you type that comment to reprimand me, I know, what I said was juvenile and inappropriate, especially b/c I had the boys with me AND b/c of my occupation. I'm not sure why I did it. They yelled other things back at me, which I didn't pay any attention to. (I'm sure some colorful language was used. I don't think they were actually fat either.) Big "C" asked what they were saying to me. It was just a bad scene that would have been trivial if I hadn't opened my big mouth. Now I have to explain to Big & Little "C" that what I did was inappropriate and why it was. Also, since I further antagonized the local miscreants, next time they see me out running they're sure to have some comment to send my way. (If not a rock or stick as well.) >-> The old adage, "If you don't have something nice to say then don't say anything at all," really applied to this.
I need practice with the advice that Jesus gave when he said "to turn the other cheek."

Things

2008-07-06T22:50:00.002-04:00

Pastor Jeff did a fantastic job with his message today. Way to go Jeff! You didn't even look nervous. We'll be praying that God touches your heart and puts a message in your mind for next week.

Had a family gathering at Pizza Hut in Muncie today to celebrate my father-in-law's 60th birthday! I know, you're thinking, at Pizza Hut? You have to understand, he doesn't like big gatherings or a big deal/fuss made over himself. He just enjoys it when the family gets together and he can see his grandkids. This was perfect for him! Happy Birthday, Finley!

I won't be surprised if Big "C" doesn't play baseball in the future. He's really improved with his catching and throwing, but he's still really struggling with his hitting. (I think he's only had one hit the whole season.( It's been very frustrating for him. Now he's to the point that he's not really trying when he hits. We took him to the batting cage today and he hit one of 16 pitches. He was barely trying during the last six pitches. When we got home, however, he wanted to play pass. He's said before that he enjoys baseball, but he wondered if he could play and not have to hit. What a predicament!

Went running to M.C.'s cross-country course, then ran the course, then ran home the long way. Got 71 minutes in. Big "C" ran/walked about a mile with me on the course. He ran, without stopping, the second half-mile. We made it a competition and he wanted to beat me, which he did. ;) We may go fishing tomorrow. Please say a prayer for us!

Post-Birthday Celebration

2008-07-05T22:27:00.004-04:00

Arrived home from Ashland University, Ohio, yesterday just in time to dine at the out-laws and then experience a wonderful fireworks display in Muncie. Tonight, however, the neighbors to the east are continuing the celebration (probably to use what they have left from yesterday) and keeping the community awake. (Can you still hear those, Pastor Kris?)

The class I took this past week was a wonderful exposition on the events leading up to the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln, our Founders, and the Declaration of Independence. Basically, U.S. history from 1820 - 1861. Now, to receive my two graduate credit hours, I only have to write a 15 - 20 page paper by July 18th. :)

I really missed my family this past week. We ate, sat through class sessions, took copious notes (can everyone say "carpaltunnel?" ~ not sure of spelling), read, sat through more classes, read, ate, and read some more. I'm not complaining here, because I received a grant & got to take this class for free, but seventeen one-and-a-half hour sessions seemed pretty looooooonnng!

Except for the research paper, I'm free for the next four weeks. We're creating a list of things we want to do, places we want to go, and movies we want to see over that period. If you need help with something, drop me a line and I'll be right there.

Belatedly, happy 4th of July ~ and Happy Birthday America! :]

Teachers, Teachers, Can You Teach Me?

2008-06-28T01:22:00.003-04:00

Okay, as most of you are aware I'm a teacher in a small, rural public school in Ohio. USAToday.com had a story on Fri. (6/27) sharing the results from a poll conducted on how Americans view our public school system. To summarize, most think our schools do a terrible job educating our youth & preparing them for college or the workplace, that they've sharply declined over the last 20 years & fallen behind most modern foreign countries, that math and science needs to be emphasized more, and that at least part of a teachers' pay needs to be tied to how successful his/her students are.

I know my opinions on these issues, which I'll share at a later date. Let's hear from you first. Please. (See, I can be nice about a topic that I'm emotional and opinionated about.)

New Orleans Update

2008-06-28T01:17:00.002-04:00

Hey fellow Cajun lovers! Just thought I'd give you a quick update about a news story that I just read on ABCNEWS.com. Congress passed a bill on Thur. (6/26) authorizing $73 million to help the homeless in New Orleans, LA. Seems that the number of homeless pre-Katrina was around 6,000 and the number post-Katrina (now) is around 12,000. Just another sign that prayer works! (Assuming that corrupt government officials and contractors down there don't get their hands on the money first!)

Barrier / Wall

2008-06-28T00:45:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure what to blog about this evening. I've hit a blogging wall! (Gasp.) I could tell you that the class I've been teaching all week ended today with the students taking Ohio's version of the ISTEP (it's called the OGT ~ Ohio Graduation Test.) I'm not feeling too confident about how the seven students did, but you never know! (We'll find out on August 26th.) Then I wrestled with my laptop, attempting to prepare it for the class that I'm taking at Ashland University in Ohio this next week called Secession and the Civil War. Drove home and spent some quality time with the family, then went for a nice run. (40 min. worth of "nice.") Hurriedly cleaned up, drove to Saratoga, IN, by way of Winchester so we could hit the McDonald's for supper, and watched my nephew (who's playing on an all-star baseball team) play against Gas City. The team my nephew is on is from Arcanum, Ohio. (My home town.) Then we drove home, ate ice cream sundaes, and Big "C" and I tossed the baseball back-and-forth in the road. Tonight I've been struggling with my internet connection, reading blogs, writing a few comments, occasionally reading one of the books that I'm supposed to have read by Sunday (isn't procrastination great?), and thinking about going to bed. Big "C" has a game at 8:30 in the morning so I should probably sign off. Cya! :]

Sounds like ... excuses?

2008-06-26T22:20:00.002-04:00

We had a nice thunderstorm this afternoon followed by a cool, brezzy overcast that made it enjoyable to play pass with Big "C" and stomp in some water puddles with Little "C". My wife is wonderful! She kept the boys busy so that I could take a nap for about an hour. I'm feeling much better now.
I was going to "fast" today. You know, not eat any food or drink anything except water for a whole day. I've been reading about Jesus fasting & praying and thought I'd do this as well. The praying part wasn't working so well because I had two boys who kept wanting me to play. (Now I know why Jesus went into the wilderness or off on his own to pray to his Father.) Melissa thought I was having another episode concerning my weight and didn't take seriously my explanation that I was fasting to purify my body and praying to be closer to God. So, to make a short story shorter, she made my favorite dish for supper and I broke down and ate it. I'd like to say that the Devil made me do it, but in reality it was my wife.

Ye Ole' Swimmin' Hole

2008-06-25T22:20:00.003-04:00

I'm not trying to complain (in case you read this Ryan) but has anyone else who went to New Orleans still been really, REALLY tired. It's been four days since our return and I've just felt exhausted. Maybe it's my age, but I've been falling asleep every time I sit down. I'm trying to read the books for the class I'm taking next week and I nod off on almost every one. (And no, they're not that boring. Well, okay, maybe a little.)
Took the family to Bear Creek Farm today. Had a ball at the Ol' Swimmin' Hole, then gorged ourselves at the Homesteader restaraunt. On top of that, I misread a sign and bought two pounds of hard candy. (Yes, that was expensive!)
Brent, Nate, Tom, and the rest of the gang are already working on collecting items for Carpenter's House 2 in New Orleans. Brent said he will haul the things down there, maybe as early as August.
Got a letter today from Sugun, the 10 yr. old boy in India that our family is sponsoring through Compassion International. He drew a nice picture and told us some of his "favourites." One of them is the game of football. (I'm guessing that he's referring to what we call soccer, not American football.) He enjoys eating rice and his mother is a farmer. It's really neat to see his handwriting (in Hindi I think) and then read the translation below it.
God speed!