Good Lord! It's been a while!
News, news, news. So much has happened since my last post. It's been a crazy, horrible, amazing 6 months, and I hope I never have to go through it again. That said, where to start...
1. Last time we saw our hero, he was working at Advanced Systems Group in Tulsa. At the time, he also had plenty of time to blog during office hours (red flag anyone?).
As of August 15th and after a horrific 8 months of working for a horrible, horrible boss who is not only bi-polar, but a whack-a-doodle in general, I got fired because the salesman hadn't made any sales. Two things are wrong with this:
A. I was held responsible for someone else's results and not my own.
B. The economy is in the toilet, but the boss can't see the toilet because his head is too far up his sphincter.
So I busted out (read escorted out) of that pukehole! (Sorry, that's my wife's phrase, not mine.)
2. Caden turned 1 and Bailey turned 2. Hooray!
3. Caden broke his arm. Boo!
4.We got a cat! Yay!
5. We got rid of said cat. Boo!
6. We got a puppy! Yay!
7. Our 2-year old goldfish died. Boo!
8. I didn't qualify for unemployment. Boo!
9. I got a job in a month! Yay!
10. I was doing cold-calling and sales. Boo!
11. I got transferred to salaried content writing! Yay!
Phew! Busy, busy year with lots and lots of trusting God.
More on my new job: I'm working at Tulsa Websites and SEO Services for two wonderful, understanding bosses that actually have reasonable and attainable expectations! You never appreciate a good boss until you have a horrible one. We also have an amazing product and incredible service! Again, you can't appreciate a good product until you have a horrible one (like $100,000 software pitched to mom and pop companies like roofers and garage door people. Yeah...right.)
In any case, if you need a website, you should totally check us out: www.tulsawebsitesandseoservices.com
If you don't know what SEO is, I'll do an SEO post later today. But the good news is it is my job to blog all day, so look forward to more posts from you-know-who. Me. Not Voldemort.
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
New Lists... a Lot to Cover
Sorry for the inconsistency in blog posts, folks.
That said, of course, a lot has happened since the last post.
1. The cruise is less than 2 weeks away and things are about to get busy as our schedule ramps up toward our vacation. Three of Christa's siblings will be staying at our house and we expect the first (her brother) to arrive this weekend. Her brother is awesome, and I am stoked.
2. I'm going camping this weekend with the guys from community group. Should be a blast and will be a great opportunity to get to know them better. I am leading a group next semester, so they need to get to know me, too.
3. Went to Nashville with John, our company salesman, for an Overhead Door Dealer Conference. (We provide software tailored to the OHD industry) We have a lot in common as far as our musical and entertainment tastes go, so we had a lot of fun. Nashville is pretty cool, but we stopped in Memphis on the way back and it was incredible! Memphis is waaaay cooler.
4.Work has been slow lately. Now that the door show is over and I'm no longer spending all my time preparing for it, my plate is looking sparse.
5. Christa is now scuba certified! One less frustrating activity on our vacation prep list...
6. Christa and I lead our first community group meeting last night and it went well. It went a long way toward easing our anxiety about volunteering for this leadership role. Especially since neither of us have any advantageous experience to help keep us from freaking out about this new weight of responsibility. Phew!
7. Bailey is starting to get over her perpetual ear infections...we think. But, Caden definitely has severe seasonal allergies like his poppa and has been dealing with a large excess of mucous lately.
8. I have no idea what to do for mother's day...yikes!
9. Wolverine wasn't as good as Iron Man or the Dark Knight, but it was definitely good.
10. Star Trek comes out this weekend, and I think it will easily end up being the best movie of the summer. That's saying a lot considering the number of awesome-sounding movies that are supposed to come out.
That said, of course, a lot has happened since the last post.
1. The cruise is less than 2 weeks away and things are about to get busy as our schedule ramps up toward our vacation. Three of Christa's siblings will be staying at our house and we expect the first (her brother) to arrive this weekend. Her brother is awesome, and I am stoked.
2. I'm going camping this weekend with the guys from community group. Should be a blast and will be a great opportunity to get to know them better. I am leading a group next semester, so they need to get to know me, too.
3. Went to Nashville with John, our company salesman, for an Overhead Door Dealer Conference. (We provide software tailored to the OHD industry) We have a lot in common as far as our musical and entertainment tastes go, so we had a lot of fun. Nashville is pretty cool, but we stopped in Memphis on the way back and it was incredible! Memphis is waaaay cooler.
4.Work has been slow lately. Now that the door show is over and I'm no longer spending all my time preparing for it, my plate is looking sparse.
5. Christa is now scuba certified! One less frustrating activity on our vacation prep list...
6. Christa and I lead our first community group meeting last night and it went well. It went a long way toward easing our anxiety about volunteering for this leadership role. Especially since neither of us have any advantageous experience to help keep us from freaking out about this new weight of responsibility. Phew!
7. Bailey is starting to get over her perpetual ear infections...we think. But, Caden definitely has severe seasonal allergies like his poppa and has been dealing with a large excess of mucous lately.
8. I have no idea what to do for mother's day...yikes!
9. Wolverine wasn't as good as Iron Man or the Dark Knight, but it was definitely good.
10. Star Trek comes out this weekend, and I think it will easily end up being the best movie of the summer. That's saying a lot considering the number of awesome-sounding movies that are supposed to come out.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
So much to do, so little time...
I have been swamped at the office lately. I haven't had time to blog or anything! I really shouldn't even be blogging right now!
1. The cruise is just a mere month away from tomorrow! Hooray!
2. I bought a Wii for Christa and I to play with after the kids go to sleep in the evenings. Our poor arms are so sore!
3. Season 2 of Burn Notice is over until June. Unfortunately, Season 2 was the season that Christa and I got addicted.
4. Christa and I have been stressing out a lot lately, and it's been affecting our relationship. Lots of button-pushing and back-biting blame to go around for everyone! Fortunately, last weekend was kind of a wake-up call. We were both grumpy all weekend and inaccurate impressions were made that were a bit frightening. As a result, our relationship has had a much-needed boost in romance and healthy communication lately and spirits are high!
5. Community Group will be back up and running this Sunday!
6. This weekend we are going to do something special, but I don't know what. Any suggestions? Last weekend wasn't as fun as it could have been and the next two weekends will be nuts, so now's the time.
7. I don't want to invoke Murphy's wrath here, but I think Caden is officially sleeping through the night consistently!
8. TANSTAAFL, folks. Distrust salesmen, but remember they are people, too. This is based more on general life experience than any particular recent incident.
9. Christa and I are going to go for a walk every day for the next 30 days, starting today, in an effort to lose weight before the cruise. (Between high amounts of stress and low amounts of free time and eating out almost continuously lately, we've put on a few mood-squelching pounds).
10. Men, buy your women some flowers today. Women, reward them for it. ;)
EDIT---
We NEVER fight or push each other's buttons, we NEVER have bad attitudes and ALWAYS have good weekends, we are both SKINNY, and women should NEVER reward their men for flowers.
Does that cover it all honey? :)
1. The cruise is just a mere month away from tomorrow! Hooray!
2. I bought a Wii for Christa and I to play with after the kids go to sleep in the evenings. Our poor arms are so sore!
3. Season 2 of Burn Notice is over until June. Unfortunately, Season 2 was the season that Christa and I got addicted.
4. Christa and I have been stressing out a lot lately, and it's been affecting our relationship. Lots of button-pushing and back-biting blame to go around for everyone! Fortunately, last weekend was kind of a wake-up call. We were both grumpy all weekend and inaccurate impressions were made that were a bit frightening. As a result, our relationship has had a much-needed boost in romance and healthy communication lately and spirits are high!
5. Community Group will be back up and running this Sunday!
6. This weekend we are going to do something special, but I don't know what. Any suggestions? Last weekend wasn't as fun as it could have been and the next two weekends will be nuts, so now's the time.
7. I don't want to invoke Murphy's wrath here, but I think Caden is officially sleeping through the night consistently!
8. TANSTAAFL, folks. Distrust salesmen, but remember they are people, too. This is based more on general life experience than any particular recent incident.
9. Christa and I are going to go for a walk every day for the next 30 days, starting today, in an effort to lose weight before the cruise. (Between high amounts of stress and low amounts of free time and eating out almost continuously lately, we've put on a few mood-squelching pounds).
10. Men, buy your women some flowers today. Women, reward them for it. ;)
EDIT---
We NEVER fight or push each other's buttons, we NEVER have bad attitudes and ALWAYS have good weekends, we are both SKINNY, and women should NEVER reward their men for flowers.
Does that cover it all honey? :)
Friday, April 3, 2009
Freedom and Blessings!
It's been an interesting week folks! I got my new TV, Christa got her new camera, my boss approved my vacation time for our FREE cruise in May that was so generously provided by my parents! God has blessed us immensely lately with gifts and opportunities!
Why I am excited about this cruise:
1. Over the years, our pastors, marriage counselors, sunday schools and bible studies have stressed the key to maintaining a happy marriage: Divert Daily, Withdraw Weekly and Abandon Annually. What this means is that every once in a while and with some regularity a couple must spend some time on each other away from the kiddos. If a marriage lacks this, the couple will wake up one day with the kids no longer in the nest (off to college or to build their own lives) and realize that they don't know each other any more. This is why so many couples get divorced when the kids aren't the thing they have in common any more. So, to make your marriage healthy, set aside the following time:
a. Set aside a few minutes each day for just a little romance. Just enough to let the other person know you care for them and want to know how their day was and if there is anything you could do for them.
b. Set aside a date night. Date night is VITAL to keeping feelings of love alive. Love may be a decision, but it's always a lot easier if you can keep the feelings going. Take time to stoke the flame.
c. Go on a week-long vacation at least once a year without the kids. This is highly recommended to step-back, relax and let everything go for a little while. It's good for the your heart, soul, mind, strength, and relationship with God and your spouse.
Sure, some people can survive without this, but not without difficulty. Just this little bit of investment will go a looooong way. Also, if you don't do this, chances are you won't be a very happy person. And if you and your spouse are both feeling strained, that hurts your relationship with everyone around you, including your kids.
2. The second reason I'm so excited is that Christa and I haven't had a vacation for 2 years! And the last one we were on, she was pregnant and we were severely limited in how much fun we could have!
3. Free food!
4. No cell phones, no crying, no traffic, no work, no stress!!!
5. Romancing and relaxing with my dearest honeywife.
Check out this site a friend of mine made: This really is legitimate. They make all of their money through advertising and don't require you to click on any ads or complete any offers:
http://www.ClickWinButton.com/?refid=a2467a9526504c6c92a3636f81c4372c
Why I am excited about this cruise:
1. Over the years, our pastors, marriage counselors, sunday schools and bible studies have stressed the key to maintaining a happy marriage: Divert Daily, Withdraw Weekly and Abandon Annually. What this means is that every once in a while and with some regularity a couple must spend some time on each other away from the kiddos. If a marriage lacks this, the couple will wake up one day with the kids no longer in the nest (off to college or to build their own lives) and realize that they don't know each other any more. This is why so many couples get divorced when the kids aren't the thing they have in common any more. So, to make your marriage healthy, set aside the following time:
a. Set aside a few minutes each day for just a little romance. Just enough to let the other person know you care for them and want to know how their day was and if there is anything you could do for them.
b. Set aside a date night. Date night is VITAL to keeping feelings of love alive. Love may be a decision, but it's always a lot easier if you can keep the feelings going. Take time to stoke the flame.
c. Go on a week-long vacation at least once a year without the kids. This is highly recommended to step-back, relax and let everything go for a little while. It's good for the your heart, soul, mind, strength, and relationship with God and your spouse.
Sure, some people can survive without this, but not without difficulty. Just this little bit of investment will go a looooong way. Also, if you don't do this, chances are you won't be a very happy person. And if you and your spouse are both feeling strained, that hurts your relationship with everyone around you, including your kids.
2. The second reason I'm so excited is that Christa and I haven't had a vacation for 2 years! And the last one we were on, she was pregnant and we were severely limited in how much fun we could have!
3. Free food!
4. No cell phones, no crying, no traffic, no work, no stress!!!
5. Romancing and relaxing with my dearest honeywife.
Check out this site a friend of mine made: This really is legitimate. They make all of their money through advertising and don't require you to click on any ads or complete any offers:
http://www.ClickWinButton.com/?refid=a2467a9526504c6c92a3636f81c4372c
Friday, March 27, 2009
Pernicious Problems Paring and Paired with Pleasures Profound
Wow, I really had to p. Okay, enough puns and enough p's.
I'm having trouble defeating procrast...putting off....delays at work. I keep letting things go for too long. I've got several deadlines looming and I'm fighting the urge to avoid working so I can avoid distress.
In other news: I got the first half of our tax return today! Time to spend!
In other other news, I'm trying to get back in the habit of posting on here.
Things you should do:
1. Sign up for Audible.com and download one free e-book (cancel before 30 days or you'll get charged for a credit toward a second book).
2. Visit GiveAwayoftheDay.com and save it as a bookmark or favorite so you can visit it everyday and download one free computer program absolutely free each day!
3. Call me. I probably haven't heard from you in quite a while, and I'd like to.
4. Do something unexpectedly nice for every person that you see on a daily or weekly basis some time in the next week (Don't put it off! Make a list!)
5. Tell someone you love them. Chances are you won't regret it (for long anyway).
6. Do your taxes. It'll be here before you know it.
7. Watch a stupid movie from your childhood that you know will make you laugh.
8. Watch an artsy movie old or new and analyze it. Try to figure out what the director is saying with what he shows and how he shows it.
9. Read a genre-fiction novel. Look it up if you don't know what that is.
10. Take a walk whether it's raining or not.
I'm having trouble defeating procrast...putting off....delays at work. I keep letting things go for too long. I've got several deadlines looming and I'm fighting the urge to avoid working so I can avoid distress.
In other news: I got the first half of our tax return today! Time to spend!
In other other news, I'm trying to get back in the habit of posting on here.
Things you should do:
1. Sign up for Audible.com and download one free e-book (cancel before 30 days or you'll get charged for a credit toward a second book).
2. Visit GiveAwayoftheDay.com and save it as a bookmark or favorite so you can visit it everyday and download one free computer program absolutely free each day!
3. Call me. I probably haven't heard from you in quite a while, and I'd like to.
4. Do something unexpectedly nice for every person that you see on a daily or weekly basis some time in the next week (Don't put it off! Make a list!)
5. Tell someone you love them. Chances are you won't regret it (for long anyway).
6. Do your taxes. It'll be here before you know it.
7. Watch a stupid movie from your childhood that you know will make you laugh.
8. Watch an artsy movie old or new and analyze it. Try to figure out what the director is saying with what he shows and how he shows it.
9. Read a genre-fiction novel. Look it up if you don't know what that is.
10. Take a walk whether it's raining or not.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Happy March everyone!
It has been so cold lately! That shouldn't be shocking in late February/early March, but considering most of the winter involved sunny 60-70 degrees F days, the shock becomes clearer.
No worries, today it will be 50, tomorrow 60, and Wednesday 70 degrees!
That's Oklahoma for you.
We got our copy of the first marketing postcard in the mail Friday and Tim the Boss loved it! We have a meeting tomorrow to discuss and implement further marketing plans that he was taught in San Diego last week. Considering his good mood via postcard happiness, this should be a great meeting!
I've been getting into audio books lately. Especially free ones. If you go here you can get a free full-length audiobook. I chose Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson. I've also been listening to Death by Cliche by Robert J. Defendi. In addition, I just finished the excellent, free e-book Warbreaker by the aforementioned Brandon Sanderson, who, I might add, is a genius.
It has been so cold lately! That shouldn't be shocking in late February/early March, but considering most of the winter involved sunny 60-70 degrees F days, the shock becomes clearer.
No worries, today it will be 50, tomorrow 60, and Wednesday 70 degrees!
That's Oklahoma for you.
We got our copy of the first marketing postcard in the mail Friday and Tim the Boss loved it! We have a meeting tomorrow to discuss and implement further marketing plans that he was taught in San Diego last week. Considering his good mood via postcard happiness, this should be a great meeting!
I've been getting into audio books lately. Especially free ones. If you go here you can get a free full-length audiobook. I chose Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson. I've also been listening to Death by Cliche by Robert J. Defendi. In addition, I just finished the excellent, free e-book Warbreaker by the aforementioned Brandon Sanderson, who, I might add, is a genius.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Life and Taxes...
Hooray for tax refunds!
Being poor is awesome!
So is being a first time homebuyer!
Let's just say it's five figures.
...
I'm sorry if you are rich.
But then again, in my position, I can only be so sorry.
...
So, sorry, rich people, that I'm not more sorry.
Being poor is awesome!
So is being a first time homebuyer!
Let's just say it's five figures.
...
I'm sorry if you are rich.
But then again, in my position, I can only be so sorry.
...
So, sorry, rich people, that I'm not more sorry.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
How to Get Rid of Pests in your Home - eHow
I wrote a new article on eHow about How to Get Rid of Pests in your Home! This is a great article that I think you should all read!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Coraline movie review is good, but opinions differ on Gaiman
A staff critic at blog.redbox.com and I disagree on the talent of acclaimed and best-selling author Neil Gaiman. You can view our discussion in the comments section of the Coraline review. Overall, it was a positive review, but I had a bit of a kneejerk reaction on reading his scathing opinion of Gaiman as a writer.
Here's the link to the article.
Here's the link to the article.
7-11 Robbed by Klingon!
If only this weren't true...
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/18637190/detail.html
Considering how few people actually own a Bat'leth, this guy should be easy to track down.
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/18637190/detail.html
Considering how few people actually own a Bat'leth, this guy should be easy to track down.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Health and the President
Okay people, two things have been bothering me lately.
I've never been too concerned about my health. Sure, I understand that I'm a little overweight, but that has only bothered my vanity. I was never worried about weight-related health issues.
Until recently that is.
In the last year, I've gained probably 20 pounds. I found out that my grandpa on my mom's side has had heart problems. I never really saw him in the hospital, so I never knew much about it. And obviously, I wasn't concerned for my own well-being. But also, my dad discovered that he is diabetic. And his dad had several heart attacks before dying of one when my dad was a teenager. He was also a diabetic.
Finding out my Dad is diabetic really hit me hard. I never expected it. And now, considering his dad's history, I worry about him a lot. That's what got me started wondering about me.
What really scared me was last weekend. I was watching a movie with my wife and I got to laughing too hard. Suddenly, I felt an intense pain in my chest. I have never felt that kind of pain before. I have had little chest twinges before, but usually those were chest cramps or indigestion. This was wholly different. I was scared. All I could think about was leaving my wife and kids behind alone. That was terrifying. Sure, I know that they would be okay. But it would devastate my wife. I couldn't do that to her. She depends on me for so much.
Turns out, I strained the cartilage that holds my ribs together in the front. It hurt for 3 days. It still hurts when I get a bad night's sleep or am stressed. But less each time, so I know it's healing.
Even so, it was a huge wake up call. As soon as I qualify for health insurance, I'm going to get a thorough check-up. Including a heart stress test. Truth be told, I haven't taken care of myself healthwise in a while. I haven't had health insurance for a long time. I need to go to a dentist, an eye doctor, an allergy doctor, a skin doctor and a regular doctor. Yikes! I hate doing that stuff. But it still needs to be done.
But that's only the first thing bothering me.
The second is the President. Well, not so much the President, but all of the e-mails I've recieved and comments I have heard about the President...from Christians no less!
Here's what GOD says about the president:
Romans 13:1-7
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgement on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience."
1 Timothy 2:1-4
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
Hebrews 13:17
"Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of not advantage to you."
And finally, Philippians 2:14
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the suniverse as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing."
God's word is clear: Honor authority and do not complain. Christians everywhere shouted this at the democrats when Bush was elected twice. But when the chips are down and someone you voted for is not elected, you must still support the President. You may disagree, but keep it to yourself unless you, too, are going into politics. I did not vote for Obama, and I don't like him, but according to God's word, I am required to respect and honor him. I can only pray to God about my disagreements. They are for His ears and no one else's. If you share in talking negatively about the President with anyone other than God, then you are SINNING.
The only time it is permitted to disobey authority is when it goes directly against God's word. But, you may only disobey, not shout about it from the rooftops that brings no honor to your cause. Let any disobedient actions speak for themselves.
That's all.
I've never been too concerned about my health. Sure, I understand that I'm a little overweight, but that has only bothered my vanity. I was never worried about weight-related health issues.
Until recently that is.
In the last year, I've gained probably 20 pounds. I found out that my grandpa on my mom's side has had heart problems. I never really saw him in the hospital, so I never knew much about it. And obviously, I wasn't concerned for my own well-being. But also, my dad discovered that he is diabetic. And his dad had several heart attacks before dying of one when my dad was a teenager. He was also a diabetic.
Finding out my Dad is diabetic really hit me hard. I never expected it. And now, considering his dad's history, I worry about him a lot. That's what got me started wondering about me.
What really scared me was last weekend. I was watching a movie with my wife and I got to laughing too hard. Suddenly, I felt an intense pain in my chest. I have never felt that kind of pain before. I have had little chest twinges before, but usually those were chest cramps or indigestion. This was wholly different. I was scared. All I could think about was leaving my wife and kids behind alone. That was terrifying. Sure, I know that they would be okay. But it would devastate my wife. I couldn't do that to her. She depends on me for so much.
Turns out, I strained the cartilage that holds my ribs together in the front. It hurt for 3 days. It still hurts when I get a bad night's sleep or am stressed. But less each time, so I know it's healing.
Even so, it was a huge wake up call. As soon as I qualify for health insurance, I'm going to get a thorough check-up. Including a heart stress test. Truth be told, I haven't taken care of myself healthwise in a while. I haven't had health insurance for a long time. I need to go to a dentist, an eye doctor, an allergy doctor, a skin doctor and a regular doctor. Yikes! I hate doing that stuff. But it still needs to be done.
But that's only the first thing bothering me.
The second is the President. Well, not so much the President, but all of the e-mails I've recieved and comments I have heard about the President...from Christians no less!
Here's what GOD says about the president:
Romans 13:1-7
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgement on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience."
1 Timothy 2:1-4
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
Hebrews 13:17
"Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of not advantage to you."
And finally, Philippians 2:14
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the suniverse as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing."
God's word is clear: Honor authority and do not complain. Christians everywhere shouted this at the democrats when Bush was elected twice. But when the chips are down and someone you voted for is not elected, you must still support the President. You may disagree, but keep it to yourself unless you, too, are going into politics. I did not vote for Obama, and I don't like him, but according to God's word, I am required to respect and honor him. I can only pray to God about my disagreements. They are for His ears and no one else's. If you share in talking negatively about the President with anyone other than God, then you are SINNING.
The only time it is permitted to disobey authority is when it goes directly against God's word. But, you may only disobey, not shout about it from the rooftops that brings no honor to your cause. Let any disobedient actions speak for themselves.
That's all.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
The word Like
So much misuse, so little time.
The word "like" is beginning to become a problem. Why only just now, you ask? Here's where the issue hits the fan: when the bad linguistic habits of one's youth follow one into adulthood and begin to affect even the older generations in a viral way that is all too literal (picture the word like as the exponentially growing monster from "The Blob"), then you have a problem.
Now for an illustration drawn from the writer's own life:
I remember distinctly when I started using the word like. I was in fifth grade and I was 11 years old. Just beginning my arduous journey through puberty, I suddenly noticed that everyone was saying it. It was similar to noticing breasts for the first time. Before, girls were cootie-carriers that you didn't want coming too close, and then suddenly, they grew these very adult looking lumps of flesh on their chests and became mysterious. Suddenly, they were everywhere!
You could compare it to burning popcorn. Things are popping along just fine and then, in an instant, the entire house is filled with a rank odor that stings the nostrils. In just a few seconds of inattention, your house is laden with stink that refuses to leave for days. "Like" was the same way. At first, being the late adopter of trends that I am, I hated the word. I thought it was incredibly stupid and lowered the intelligence of everyone involved.
I was right.
Just a few weeks later, after the entire fifth grade being inundated with the word, I used it improperly for the first time. I kicked myself internally for having used it, but like Pringles, you can't stop with just one.
Years later, I find myself becoming frustrated with my own over-frequent improper use of the word. When a habit gets so frequent that even the person performing it notices, there must be a problem. It's gotten to the point where I have to conciously scan for the word before I speak and think hard about an alternative word to use in it's place. The sad part is, I often can't think of the alternative.
So, belated New Year's resolution, maybe? No, that almost guarantees failure. How about just a good solid effort and lots of rubber bands to snap around my wrist. Good old corporal punishment -- Works every time!
The word "like" is beginning to become a problem. Why only just now, you ask? Here's where the issue hits the fan: when the bad linguistic habits of one's youth follow one into adulthood and begin to affect even the older generations in a viral way that is all too literal (picture the word like as the exponentially growing monster from "The Blob"), then you have a problem.
Now for an illustration drawn from the writer's own life:
I remember distinctly when I started using the word like. I was in fifth grade and I was 11 years old. Just beginning my arduous journey through puberty, I suddenly noticed that everyone was saying it. It was similar to noticing breasts for the first time. Before, girls were cootie-carriers that you didn't want coming too close, and then suddenly, they grew these very adult looking lumps of flesh on their chests and became mysterious. Suddenly, they were everywhere!
You could compare it to burning popcorn. Things are popping along just fine and then, in an instant, the entire house is filled with a rank odor that stings the nostrils. In just a few seconds of inattention, your house is laden with stink that refuses to leave for days. "Like" was the same way. At first, being the late adopter of trends that I am, I hated the word. I thought it was incredibly stupid and lowered the intelligence of everyone involved.
I was right.
Just a few weeks later, after the entire fifth grade being inundated with the word, I used it improperly for the first time. I kicked myself internally for having used it, but like Pringles, you can't stop with just one.
Years later, I find myself becoming frustrated with my own over-frequent improper use of the word. When a habit gets so frequent that even the person performing it notices, there must be a problem. It's gotten to the point where I have to conciously scan for the word before I speak and think hard about an alternative word to use in it's place. The sad part is, I often can't think of the alternative.
So, belated New Year's resolution, maybe? No, that almost guarantees failure. How about just a good solid effort and lots of rubber bands to snap around my wrist. Good old corporal punishment -- Works every time!
ICE STORM OF THE YEAR!!!
Okay, well maybe not. But I did get to stay home yesterday, and I probably could have gotten away with it today. Unfortunately, stupid me decided to try to make it in anyway. I had probably 4 close-calls and got stuck behind a tractionless Mustang at 71st and Sheridan who had tried to turn right, but didn't use their momentum to get through. So they were stuck spinning their wheels.
This is where I should have felt sorry for the guy and tried to help.
The guy behind me pulled over to the right as if he would go around. I yelled at his image in my rearview mirror because I thought he was just circumventing the line. Well, he wasn't. He pulled over so he could get out and help push the guy. And the proverbial egg splats on my face. NOW I feel terrible. He gets them free and gets back to his car all before the light turns green again. Great. I AM a jerk.
So I get to work late this morning and it's only me and one other guy. The only guy who was here yesterday. So I'm kicking myself and wishing I had stayed in bed. Then the Sales Motivator, who is from ungodly cold Minnesota where apparently everyone is a blackbelt in driving on snow and ice, shows up for the sales meeting. Awesome.
So we have our meeting and things are tense as usual between Mr. Old-school Sales Motivator, who believes in cold-calling your way through the phone book for 12 hours a day, and the Sales guy, who knows that we can hire a company who is better at it and can cold-call for us for less. Awkward!
Now a few more people show up, but most everyone is still at home. Unfortunately enough people show up that there is no chance of leaving early. This is the point where I let out an internal scream of primal rage and angst. ARRRRGH!
Phew!
So now I get to enjoy a nice, hot bowl of Cinnamon Roll-flavored Oatmeal and do very little actual work. Oh well, maybe I can get stuck at home for lunch. I doubt it.
Have a nice day!
This is where I should have felt sorry for the guy and tried to help.
The guy behind me pulled over to the right as if he would go around. I yelled at his image in my rearview mirror because I thought he was just circumventing the line. Well, he wasn't. He pulled over so he could get out and help push the guy. And the proverbial egg splats on my face. NOW I feel terrible. He gets them free and gets back to his car all before the light turns green again. Great. I AM a jerk.
So I get to work late this morning and it's only me and one other guy. The only guy who was here yesterday. So I'm kicking myself and wishing I had stayed in bed. Then the Sales Motivator, who is from ungodly cold Minnesota where apparently everyone is a blackbelt in driving on snow and ice, shows up for the sales meeting. Awesome.
So we have our meeting and things are tense as usual between Mr. Old-school Sales Motivator, who believes in cold-calling your way through the phone book for 12 hours a day, and the Sales guy, who knows that we can hire a company who is better at it and can cold-call for us for less. Awkward!
Now a few more people show up, but most everyone is still at home. Unfortunately enough people show up that there is no chance of leaving early. This is the point where I let out an internal scream of primal rage and angst. ARRRRGH!
Phew!
So now I get to enjoy a nice, hot bowl of Cinnamon Roll-flavored Oatmeal and do very little actual work. Oh well, maybe I can get stuck at home for lunch. I doubt it.
Have a nice day!
Friday, January 23, 2009
How to Make Home-Made Wall Hooks and Guacamole!
I wrote this article on eHow about home-made wall hooks. You should go check it out.
I wrote this article, because this is what I did at the office today. I made an improvised coat hook. Bet you had no idea I was this crafty. Eat your heart out McGuyver!
I also wrote How to Make Perfect Guacamole.
I wrote this article, because this is what I did at the office today. I made an improvised coat hook. Bet you had no idea I was this crafty. Eat your heart out McGuyver!
I also wrote How to Make Perfect Guacamole.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Yesterday I was able to show my boss some of the ad mock-ups for some tradeshow magazine ads and some direct mailers that we are doing. He said that he really liked them, which gave me a huge boost of confidence!
I've also been immensely frustrated with Microsoft Outlook lateley. Apparently, there is no way to edit the HTML source code for outgoing mail. In other words, I can't create a nice HTML ad like you would see from Amazon.com or Redbox.com. I can make one that is a single image, but not one with clickable links or pictures. Very frustrating. If anyone knows of a way to get around that, I would sure like to know.
Also, I'm trying to figure out Twitter. I signed up, but I'm not really sure how it is supposed to be a news source. I haven't figured out how to conveniently compile a list of commercial Twitter names to follow yet. Again, if anyone knows, I'd appreciate it.
I've been having a lot of depression issues lately. I think its related to the amount of stress I've been having lately. I also think, I might be developing stress-induced heartburn or an ulcer.
Okay, just took a stress test on healthcentral.com and I have a Score of 561. Over 150 is a 50/50 chance of developing an illness, Over 300 is a 90% chance. Ouch. I took two other different kinds of tests and one said I was just past well-adjusted into the mildly stressed category, and the other said I was okay. So, I have a lot of stress and am coping amazingly well considering the stress factors. Booyah. :p
I've also been immensely frustrated with Microsoft Outlook lateley. Apparently, there is no way to edit the HTML source code for outgoing mail. In other words, I can't create a nice HTML ad like you would see from Amazon.com or Redbox.com. I can make one that is a single image, but not one with clickable links or pictures. Very frustrating. If anyone knows of a way to get around that, I would sure like to know.
Also, I'm trying to figure out Twitter. I signed up, but I'm not really sure how it is supposed to be a news source. I haven't figured out how to conveniently compile a list of commercial Twitter names to follow yet. Again, if anyone knows, I'd appreciate it.
I've been having a lot of depression issues lately. I think its related to the amount of stress I've been having lately. I also think, I might be developing stress-induced heartburn or an ulcer.
Okay, just took a stress test on healthcentral.com and I have a Score of 561. Over 150 is a 50/50 chance of developing an illness, Over 300 is a 90% chance. Ouch. I took two other different kinds of tests and one said I was just past well-adjusted into the mildly stressed category, and the other said I was okay. So, I have a lot of stress and am coping amazingly well considering the stress factors. Booyah. :p
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Here is my rating of the best Media for Advertising:
Word of Mouth 10 points
Direct Mail 9
Magazines 8
Internet 8
E-Mail 8
Phone 8
Outdoor 7
PR 7
Newspapers 6
TV/Radio 3
Points were given out based on three criteria:
1-3 points for cost
0-4 points for effectiveness
0-3 points for measurability
The highest possible score is 10
Here's a break down:
Word of mouth -
Costs Nothing 3 points
Very Effective 4 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 10 points
Direct Mail -
Low Cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 9 points
Magazines -
Low cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 8 points
Internet -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 8 points
E-Mail -
Low Cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 8 points
Phone -
Mid Cost 2 points
Effective 3 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 8 points
Outdoor -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 7 points
PR -
Low Cost 3 points
Very Effective 4 points
Not Measurable 0 points
Total: 7 points
Newspapers -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Hard to Measure 1 point
TV/Radio -
High Cost 1 point
Very Low Effect 1 point
Hard to Measure 1 point
This is all subjective of course, yet I belive it represents an accurate picture of the most effective ways to advertise. Consider this, most people have DVRs and Word of Mouth includes Viral Marketing...
Word of Mouth 10 points
Direct Mail 9
Magazines 8
Internet 8
E-Mail 8
Phone 8
Outdoor 7
PR 7
Newspapers 6
TV/Radio 3
Points were given out based on three criteria:
1-3 points for cost
0-4 points for effectiveness
0-3 points for measurability
The highest possible score is 10
Here's a break down:
Word of mouth -
Costs Nothing 3 points
Very Effective 4 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 10 points
Direct Mail -
Low Cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 9 points
Magazines -
Low cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 8 points
Internet -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 8 points
E-Mail -
Low Cost 3 points
Effective 3 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 8 points
Phone -
Mid Cost 2 points
Effective 3 points
Easy to Measure 3 points
Total: 8 points
Outdoor -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Measurable 2 points
Total: 7 points
PR -
Low Cost 3 points
Very Effective 4 points
Not Measurable 0 points
Total: 7 points
Newspapers -
Low Cost 3 points
Low Effect 2 points
Hard to Measure 1 point
TV/Radio -
High Cost 1 point
Very Low Effect 1 point
Hard to Measure 1 point
This is all subjective of course, yet I belive it represents an accurate picture of the most effective ways to advertise. Consider this, most people have DVRs and Word of Mouth includes Viral Marketing...
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
This really bothered me. I can see the headlines now:
Jan. 20, 2009, Tuesday - Nation's Hospitals Flooded by Nerds with Forehead and Palm Injuries
C'mon! STAR TREK? How could you get the Force confused like that? IT IS THE CENTRAL DEVICE OF STAR WARS! Captains Kirk and Picard would be rolling on the floor at the mention of something like the Force. Or at least quirking eyebrows.
Darn it, Bishop! You made Obi-Wan cry!
I'll bet Bishop Jakes' son won't be able to show his face at his Dungeons & Dragons group for weeks.
Jan. 20, 2009, Tuesday - Nation's Hospitals Flooded by Nerds with Forehead and Palm Injuries
C'mon! STAR TREK? How could you get the Force confused like that? IT IS THE CENTRAL DEVICE OF STAR WARS! Captains Kirk and Picard would be rolling on the floor at the mention of something like the Force. Or at least quirking eyebrows.
Darn it, Bishop! You made Obi-Wan cry!
I'll bet Bishop Jakes' son won't be able to show his face at his Dungeons & Dragons group for weeks.
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