You Need To Laugh

You cannot be mad at somebody who makes you laugh. -- Jay Leno
The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. -- E. E. Cummings
It's really wonderful to be here today in the great state of Chicago.
-- Former Vice President Dan Quayle
Seriousness is the only refuge of the shallow. -- Oscar Wilde

I just spent over an hour watching comedians on youtube. It was a nice break. I'm of the opinion that you need to laugh...every day...and that laughter truly is good medicine.

Nirvana

Ladies and Gents, boys and girls, lend me your ear please:

Tonight I experienced something life altering...perhaps only for a brief time...but life changing none-the-less. It was a Christmas gift I received from my wife and it has turned out to be the best gift ever. (Scratch that, God giving his only Son for all mankind that we may know Him, have life to the fullest, and avoid eternal damnation in complete separation from God...that would be the BEST GIFT EVER.)

Tonight I experienced something that will no doubt (warning, major exaggerations approaching) make me a better husband, father, co-worker, and friend. This something will increase my volume in sales in my job. It will make me pick up after myself around the house...whoa, that may be stretching it.

I'm at peace. I'm relaxed. Right now I could probably be punched in the face and not care. I could even be in a room with a Bama fan for more than 5 minutes (wait, make that 3 and 1/2 minutes). I could drop my cell phone in a bucket of water and laugh. I could hit a deer with my car and then also have transmission trouble with that same car 2 days later and not get stressed. (Oh wait, that really did just happen.)

Enough already, what is it!?!?!!!!!!

1 hour back massage.

My first one ever. The professional kind. (Is there any other?) Cheesy music, dark room...you know, the fru-fru stuff...that I used to make fun of. NO MORE! Dude, I just wish they were not so expensive. Now I feel I need one every week! What a great stress reliever. HIGHLY recommend it to everyone.

Official Deer Hunter

Growing up, I was never much for deer hunting. Fishing? Oh yeah. I liked that. Plenty of movement, multiple castings per minute. But deer hunting?....Putting a non-medicated ADD dude like me in a deer stand and asking me to sit there by myself for hours and have about a 13% chance of seeing a deer and only about a 7% chance of shooting one...no thanks, I'll pass. My 2 brothers and Dad are big hunters, but I just could never catch the fever.

But, tonight, I consider myself officially a deer hunter. Now I must clarify something. My methods are somewhat UN-conventional. In fact, you might say they are illegal. You see, what I do is load up my 98 GMC Suburban, load it down with Christmas gifts, 4 kids, and a gorgeous wife (any points there babe?), and travel down Hwy 72 east towards Scottsboro, AL...just outside Huntsville, AL. And my trick is to get the deer (a dough in this instance...but a big one) to leap out at my car....kamikaze style. In doing so, my vehicle - traveling around 65-70 mph - enters a battle with this ferocious beast. The battle is very quick. Let's say around .4672 of a second. There's really no pain involved (for you PETA folk). It's over before you know it.

And that's how I nabbed my first deer tonight. (Poor thing.) Fortunately everyone is OK (not the deer of course) and my State Farm buddies will get a visit from me tomorrow. The 3 large dents on the right side are quite impressive.

Wonder if putting the deer urine on the front hood made it an unfair advantage?

Merry Christmas Eve

Hope everyone is having merry Christmas. During this time away from work, I'm doing something I need to do more of...read. Right now I'm on ch.5 of Beck's book. Good stuff so far.

I'm estimating about a 7 pound gain during this Christmas break. Mmmmm, red velvet cake...mmmm...coconut cake...mmmm....28 pounds of turkey....

Today's Tid Bits

+ Kinda sad how our society has lost the art of listening. Listening is so vital to your family, your business, your ministry.

+ I just threw out some el junko that was just taking up space in our bedroom closet. I stopped and laughed as I found 4 bats (wiffle ball and kid toy bats). They were in our closet because we had to confiscate them from our 4 kids. Handing a bat to a 6,4,3,or 2 year old and saying "Now don't hit your brother or sister..." is like putting a DQ Heath Bar Blizzard in front of me and saying "Now don't eat it Johnny"; it aint happenin!

+ Looking forward to seeing out-of-town family over the Christmas break. We've already traveled some and will make more rounds this weekend. Family is important, no matter how dysfunctional. :-) (Note: That is a generic statement...applying to a lot of families...not necessarily mine...ha.)

+ Auburn has a new OC. Very very mixed reviews so far. Personally, I'm excited to see a spread offense. I think we will still pound the ball on the ground...this only adds to the arsenal.

+ Now that it's finally cold - I crave the slopes. Is there any better sound in the world than the slush of the snow on your skis...and then SILENCE...because you just took major air on a jump?!?! The answer is no, there is no better sound (or lack of sound).

ESPN College Football Playoff Simulator

Enjoy:

Clicky

Friday's Pic (Yes, I'm in a Pic mood lately)

Recent Random Family Pics

Pic of the Day (Wonderfully Funny)

Bobby Petrino's press conference Pig Sooi (Dude, that's just funny)

I like the visitor section

I've attended many sporting events. Mostly Auburn, of course. On multiple occasions I've sat near the visitor section. Usually, at first, I'm not all that excited about my seat. After all, I want to be close to the action - the student section. They stand the whole time. They are the loudest. Most of the energy comes from this section.

But I started thinking more about my past experiences sitting near the visitor section and I've concluded that I enjoy it. Why? Well, I like to see their reaction. I want to know if they are enjoying themselves. (OK, and truth be known....maybe I want to rub it in if we are pounding them. Just kidding, sorta.) But take Auburn for instance. When I sit near the visitor section I can see their reaction to the band marching around the field. I can watch their eyes light up when the eagle hovers over 90,000 people and lands in the middle of the field. I can see how they respond to the pre-game video and the players rushing the field through the tunnel.

Now, obviously, I don't quite expect them to convert. After all, they are there to support THEIR team. Most could care less about our wonderful traditions. To me, though, it's AUsome. It's in my blood. I'm screaming on the inside: "Look at this! It doesn't get any better than this! Incredible! Don't you want to become an Auburn fan as well?!"

Now here's the stretch (where I stretch this - far as it may be - into a spiritual application): I think it's OK to use this as a way of illustrating how we need to be around spiritual visitors - both to our home and our church. When we have a guest in our church, maybe someone we personally invited, it matters, doesn't it? We want to know if they are having a good time. We want to see their reaction to the message being preached and the songs being sung (or sanged or sunged or...just kidding). We want to know if God is reaching them like HE did us! We want them to COME AND SEE what the Lord is doing. Come and experience a great movement. And in our homes - we want them to know of God's sustaining power, that can hold a family together. We want them to experience Christ's love, poured out through us.

So my conclusion is this: If I can like the visitor section of Jordan-Hare Stadium....how much more should I love the visitor section of my home and church and workplace? If I can be excited about silly man made traditions (though AUsome they may be) that support a college and its team....than how much more excited should I be over spiritual, eternal, life changing decisions being made on a daily basis?

Conference Comparison

I can't imagine a poor turn out like this ever happening at a SEC Championship Game. Dude, that's just embarrassing for the ACC.

I'm Not Sure Who I'll Support Yet - but I like this answer and he seems genuine (but I haven't done my homework yet)

Too Close

I'm going to be bold. I'm going to share something personal. My wife and I are too close. In fact, I would venture to say we've been too close since day one - January 15, 2000 - the day we said "I do".

About 2 months ago, we began discussing this problem openly and honestly. We both immediately knew the solution. We both were on the same page on how to solve the problem...after all, minds too close think alike. The problem had been that for the past 8 years, the solution to the problem was unattainable. The means to get the solution seemed improbable.

But with much excitement and anticipation and thankfulness, I report to you, my friends, that me and Dana's problem will be solved tomorrow evening. That's right, in 24 hours our marriage will be strengthened. Ok, that's an understatement. Our marriage is going to be saved!

Tomorrow --------- our King size bed will be delivered. (And we joyfully remove our Queen bed of 8 years.)

Close no more.

:-)

Now That's Stupid

No matter what happens tonight in the College Football Bowl Selection, it will be WRONG. Multiple teams will have legitimate arguments of why they should have a shot at playing for a national championship. I can't believe for this many years there has been an uproar from fans and coaches, etc, and no change has been made. Gosh I hate what money can do to good stuff. Have a stinkin playoff! College football is the only sport without one. LET THEM PROVE WHO'S NUMBER ONE ON THE FIELD!!!!!!! (Can you tell my opinion on the whole thing?) And no, I'm not just a bitter Auburn fan. (We got snubbed in 04, after going undefeated in the SEC...craziness.) Here's the only thing: Do we trust them to establish the playoff system correctly? After all, a popularity contest now decides who plays in the "championship" game. Argh. Craziness.

Let's riot.

Auburn Alabama Game IRON BOWL 2007 - TOOMERS CORNER (a little long, but good stuff)

Aubie at the Mascot Finals 2007

Great Auburn Tradition - no matter where you are! (Iraq)

Lightside Friday

I think the Walmart bakery department messed this one up. At least they read the post-it note carefully. Ha.

Tray Blackmon Hit (How To Tackle 101)

Toomer's 2007 after Iron Bowl (360 view)

Today Show calls Foy Student Union (at Auburn University)

Iron Bowl 07 - post 3

What's the difference between Alabama football and Cheerios?

Cheerios belong in a bowl.

(Note from the editor: The Iron Bowl 07 CELEBRATION will conclude at the end of the week. Until then, get used to the blatant, over-the-top, celebratory posts.)
:-)

Iron Bowl 07 - post 2

Auburn vs Bama 2007

Iron Bowl 2007 Flyover

Iron Bowl 07 - post 1

Tshirt and Bumper Sticker Ideas (as read on blog sites):

Got Six?

$4 Million Just Doesn't Go As Far As It Used To!

Four Million Wasn't Enough

Six is AU-ight!

New Year, New Hand, New Finger

Monday's Confession

THIS movie found its way into my Top Ten list. Saw it over Thanksgiving weekend. I never (as in never ever) thought a chick flick could do that...but dude, this is a well written script and good acting. So go ahead fellas, hound me if you want....but that's a good movie.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pre-Thanksgiving Quote

“The greatest lie that I have ever had to contend with is this, ‘that life is a story about me’.” --Donald Miller, Blue Like Jazz

Today's Stat

On any given night in America, anywhere from 700,000 to 2 million people are homeless, according to estimates of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty.

Free 411

I often use 1-800-FREE411. Yeah, I know, I hear ya - you gotta listen to the advertisements...but still, it's free! Beats paying 2 bucks for using directory assistance through your cell phone company.

So last night I was trying to find the number for Las Palmas, a Mexican Restaurant in Cartersville. Typically I have to repeat myself several times to the automated system. Sometimes it just kicks me to the operator. Often it's simple words too, like "Target" or "Walmart". So, you know the drill:

City and State Please
Did you say?
Ok, government, business, or personal listing?
Would you like to search by name?
Ok, say the name
Did you say?
Ok, let's try again, just say the name...
Did you say?
Ok, let's try again.....

I'm sure you've been there too. A little frustrating. Well, I say all of that to say this: Last night, I knew going into the phone call that I had maybe a 10% chance of it recognizing me saying Las Palmas. I mean, after all, I apparently can't say Target right. So, being the goofy individual that I am, I decided to say "Las Palmas" with the most exaggerated, over the top, loudest, fakest Hispanic accent I could conjure up. "Laaaaasssss Pahhhhhlmaahhhhssss!!!!" And wouldn't you know it, yep, first time. "Did you say Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant?....The number you requested is..."

Ah, good ole USA.

Maybe I missed some kind of calling: Redneck dude who speakka no Spannich but has killer fake accent. Hmmmm...wonder what I could do with that?

Shhhh....It's Still a Secret

Went to HUNTSVILLE this past weekend. My stomping ground. Hometown. Affectionately called, "Huntsvegas". Little bro got married. Hitched. Doomed....oh wait, sorry. :-)

Had a blast with family and friends. The wedding was on top of MONTE SANO MOUNTAIN. Too many details, not enough time to describe everything. AUsome weekend!

Huntsville/Madison area has grown...alot. Has changed alot. There's a ton to do. You, of course, have the anchor - the Space and Rocket Center. But I won't turn this into a shameless promotion...maybe I already have.

Me and the Fam drove around THIS new development. Very cool shopping area. PIC. Go on the website and check out the movie theatre. GA needs this.

But the whole purpose of this post is to say....Shhhhh - Huntsville is still, for the most part, a secret - A HIDDEN GEM. Please, please don't tell too many people. Please let most people think that North Alabama is like...well, like other areas of Alabama...boring, backwoods...you know, hillbilly - like Tuscaloosa. Please let them think this.

I don't know what most homefolk think, but the growth is cool...as long as it is managed well.

Today's Church Sign

We don't change the message, Let it change you.

Saw this one this morning. Here's my edited version:

"We never change how we communicate the message, why would we expect it to change you?"

Cool Sky Pic from cell phone camera

Chinese Gourmet Philosophy

Me and the Fam hung out at Panda Express tonight and enjoyed a little rice (I go with the plain white steamed rice) and chicken and veggies. And, as any person, I fully anticipated the end of the meal when you get to break into the fortune cookie to read something so life changing and challenging and inspiring and important to your future...(sarcastic enough for you?).

But, tonight, I actually enjoyed reading my "fortune". And odd enough, I like what it said and I think it sums up how I often view life/work/education/faith. Here it is:

I hear and I forget.
I see and I remember.
I do and I understand.

Yeah, real profound, huh? Ha. But seriously, I like this summary. In fact, If I could somehow revolutionize our education system, this is where I would begin. Hands on. More time out of the classroom. Application application. Doing. Learning because you are doing.

And when I think about life lessons, and faith in action, and learning on the job, this fits. Things click more at work and you are often more productive when you are shown something and then in turn, apply it over and over and learn it on the spot. Who doesn't prefer that over a 1/2 day conference with chex mix and strong coffee? (Not that there aren't times for training seminars.)

And when do most of the milemarkers in our faith journey occur? Yeah: mission trips and local service projects. Doing. (Once again, it's a balance though, right? Discipleship and personal Bible study and prayer and accountability are vital.) But the "ah-ha" moments - the times that transform us and help us understand our beliefs and solidify our faith - often come when our hands and feet are dirty.

Must See

Ok, so maybe AUburn hasn't had the greatest football season this year. Hit and miss. Highs and lows. But they do have one of the coolest intro videos of any college team.

CHECK IT OUT

Chicken w/Egg Noodle Soup, Cinnamon Toast Crunch (offbrand) Cereal, and Calamari

Random gross post of the week. The above is what I had for dinner last night. Dana was out of the house, getting a well deserved break from the kids, and so I had all 4 kids to myself - feeding them, getting them ready for bed, etc. No, don't worry, the kids had a well balanced meal. Pancakes and milk. ha. But I couldn't decide what I wanted. I started off with a small bowl of soup....but was still hungry. Went to the cereal...that was OK...and then threw in the mushy seafood (squid, are you kidding me?!).

Maybe that's why I felt sick today?

Politics and Putting Others First

Nah...not what you think. Not a rant on politicians or Washington...though it would be easy. Just wanted to share the 2 conversations I've had with my 6 yr old, over the past 2 mornings, as I've taken him to school.

#1: "Daddy....argh...ahhhh...I don't like those!" What Braden, what is it, what's wrong? "Those signs...what are they...they are everywhere and they are bugging me!" Uh (laughing), yeah son, those are people running for office, wanting our vote. (Thinking to myself: Wow, he's learned early - they bug me too.)

#2: It was quiet on the ride to school this morning until Braden suddenly said, "Hey Dad, I put others first at school yesterday." At that very point I was flooded with many different thoughts and emotions - all of them great. You see, on Sunday at the Leaf (our church), the main point in the Kid's area was "I will put others first." I was the host in the Kid's area for the 2nd service, and we talked about different ways you can put other's first. As a leader in kid's ministry, and especially as a PARENT, you want to know - you want feedback and results - that what you are teaching and illustrating is sticking and that they "get it". I asked Braden how he put others first and he told me he allowed other kids to go in front of him in the lunch line. Great job son. I think us adults could apply this Biblical principle a little more in our everyday lives.

Quick Hit

Finishing is important. Ask the Auburn Tigers. They are one of the few teams in college football that has led at the half in every single game this year....yet they have 3 losses. Quick Hit of the day is brought to you by: "I hope LSU crushes Alabama this weekend", and co-sponsored by: "I hope I can find free tickets to the AU vs. UGA game in Athens next weekend."