What I'm Thinkin'

Okay, here's what I'm thinking. I have been sitting at work for several hours without a call rolling in and have been discussing music and some of the best times for music. One thing that I stated that the 90's was one of the best times for rock, alternative/grunge. Then that led me to think of the recent Christmas gig I played at our youth groups' Christmas party. Now, the party was them playing bingo and us playing very softly in the back. The time we did get to rock out was when everyone was leaving. Fun nonetheless. Now back to what I was thinking. It came to my attention that there needed to be some version of a cover band for the great 90's music. This is a cheesy idea but couldn't help but think that I would go and see a 90's cover band. This idea has not been fleshed out entirely but everyone should get the feel for what I'm saying.

So you few that rocked out with me over Christmas, how 'bout it?

I Need A Hobby

I have realized over the last few days that I do not have a 'hobby' of any kind. My job can be, at times, stressful. I run 2-3 times per week, weather and family obligations permitting. I enjoy playing guitar and scrubbin' a few tunes off. There are times that I need something to assist in my mental health. Running and playing music are not that consistent. Also, I wanted to see what others do to 'check out' for a small time. Now, alcohol and illicit drug use is not an option. Now that I think about it, so is risk taking behavior that has the potential of being in contact with our fine law enforcement officers. So I pose a request for suggestions of potential hobbies that I can get involved in. Here are some guidelines for all who make suggestions:

1. Can't be an everyday thing
2. Don't want to travel too far
3. Elijah, 20 months
4. Julie is pregnant with our next dependent bundle of joy, due in April
5. Enjoy sports and outdoor activities

Well, this blog is not that popular so my expectations are pretty low. However, I am curious if anyone will make a comment and respond to my request.

Until next time, peace.

There is a season....

Julie and I moved to Virginia three years from ATL, GA because we wanted to be closer to family and felt a leading for ministry overseas. Fast forward to three years later, we have a great home, a 20 month old boy genius, and another one on the way. Now, that I have begun to settle into a career and have a growing family it is difficult, at times, to follow God's leading to be involved in overseas work. There are times when I feel overwhelmed at the mere thought of being in a developing country, not a developed country, with my family. And with no definitive plan in place it makes it even more of a struggle to uproot those who I hold most dear to a culture that I know little about.

We know that in the near future we will be moving somewhere in North Africa. I have had the opportunity to visit Tunisia and Morocco and enjoyed my experience each trip. The experiences, culture, people were all intoxicating. I remember thinking that I could find myself living here for an extended period of time, in each of the two countries. Each of these trips however were stays of only a week. A short enough time to get your feet wet but not quite long enough to fully take in the magnitude of adjusting to a new culture.

Yesterday, we sent out our first letters informing family and friends of out intentions in the upcoming months. Although, I feel that I can never be fully prepared or ready, moving forward is the only thing I know to do. If we continue to talk and wait, then we can possibly talk and wait until our children are grown and I retire from my current position. No, going forward feels right and I feel compelled to do so. We will see what happens in the next few weeks to months.

Can I have your Blessing, Pt. 2

My mom called me over the weekend to let me know that Bob proposed. I never did call him back to tell him my thoughts. After weeks of thinking about this, although not over analyzing, I came to the conclusion that my mother is a grown woman and can make her own decisions. Besides she is going to do what she wants or rather what she feels is right for her. Bob and mom went to Myrtle Beach, SC and apparently Bob spent no expense. He took my mom for a night at the Dixie Stampede, where you eat with no silverware and watch people do horse tricks. What a very extravagant night.

So, my mother is going to get married for the 3rd time. I've read and heard that you have a 60% chance of splitting up when it is your 2nd message and a greater chance on your 3rd. Also, I just saw where men gain an average of 5 pounds the first year of marriage and women 7. I guess what I'm trying to say is Bob and Mom have a 30% of staying married and gaining wait during the process. The odds do not look good. Either way, I do wish her the best.