Blink. Here we are at the end of yet another year.
Wow. Un. Real. I think I’m gonna just start leaving our Christmas lights up all year…
2011 was full of many key moments as a family for us. It started with a bang as we were fortunate enough to take the kids on the family dream vacation to Disney World. Words and photos hardly do it justice but we hope you enjoyed some on our Christmas card this year. It was truly one of the most amazing trips ever. If you do anything for your family, do this one. Julie and I both still vividly remember our trips with our families when we were kids. To be able to do this for our family was an amazing blessing. We can’t wait to go back! Our annual trip to Galveston is always a great time of the year and it was this summer too, but nothing really compares to Disney!
The girls started kindergarten this fall! Big girls now! They love it and are learning so fast. They can basically read almost anything. It’s been fun watching them socially interact with new kids and friends. As identical twins some things just never change. They love being together all the time. We do have them in separate classes, but other than that they are inseparable. Even as parents I don’t think we will ever understand the identical twin thing. Sidney has become such a little mommy and a leader. Chloe remains comical and entertaining. Both are super sweet and just great, great kids. We could not be prouder.
Quinn is going to pre-K and he too has grown by leads and bounds. He even sings the girls school song! He catches on to things so fast. At 4 years old he acts like he is 6 in many ways. He’s all boy though, and for those of you with a boy, you know what we mean. He is a little class leader though and everyone loves little Quinn. He is the star attraction in his school, at church and really wherever he goes. People love him and kids want to be around him. We remain in awe of him and all that God has done to make our family complete.
Our lives are 100% about kids right now. We live in a cul-de-sac and it has become the hot spot for the kids each night. We literally will have a dozen or so out in the front playing, riding bikes or playing some type of sport. We sit out on the driveway catching up with friends on Facebook or playing Words with Friends. In this crazy world we live in, it is kind of nice to have some of those old “front porch” ways visit us from time to time. We are trying to enjoy every second because so many have expressed how fast it all goes. Our lives were so self-centered and selfish before we had kids. God has taught us so much about love, forgiveness and putting others first which is really what life is all about, isn't it? It’s not easy, but there is nothing more rewarding.
Hey, how about our Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers huh?!?! Still cannot believe Dirk and the Mavs finally joined the other two Texas teams with rings! It was such a fun ride and the kids really got into Dirk madness! They would just laugh like crazy when we would hoot and holler at the TV during the playoffs. Same thing with the Rangers too. Probably our greatest times each year are being a “Rangers family”. We buy the JR Rangers package (highly recommend!) and go to 5-7 games a year or more. Kids love, love, love Rangers games. Some of my greatest memories are with my dad going to Astros games, so I am thrilled to do the same with my kiddos. Julie loves it too. We cheered them on like mad during their 2nd World Series appearance this year too. Such a heartbreak, but they should be good for a long, long time and in 2013 my Astros join their division! What about the Cowboys you ask? Well, nothing replaces football and it looks like the Cowboys might (and I say might) do something this year. Our fingers are crossed. But either way, the Mavs start up again soon, the Stars are looking pretty good and baseball is just around the corner. Yes, we are a sports family!
We have helped start an orphan ministry at our church this year called “Embrace” with another adoptive family we are friends with. We will officially kick things off in 2012 but we are excited about the chance to reach out to kids in need and help people adopt children. Every child deserves a family and our prayer is more Christians will step up to the plate. Please LIKE our Facebook page! www.facebook.com/wrbcembrace We will keep you posted on how you can help us help orphans!
Julie has been busy this year on two fronts. One, she started her own baking business this year making amazing “cake balls” and it is doing great. Our house always smells like cake! Needless to say, I have NOT lost any weight this year….those cake balls are so stinking good too! She also started a new jewelry business called “Crown Jewels” with my business partner’s wife, Rebecca Novinger. They do 2-3 “Gold Parties” each week and help people get cash for their old unwanted gold and silver. She loves it! We plan to expand in 2012 so if anyone wants to host a party and make some money just contact her! It’s easy and super fun.
No doubt about it our toughest challenge this year was losing our beloved 10 year old boxer Sam. We still miss him every day. He was just the greatest dog ever and his sudden death was so tough. But we knew the kids would have to experience a new puppy and after 10 years of having a play mate, our little dog Max needed another dog to help him stay young. Plus, once you have a Boxer, your family just isn’t right without one around. So we adopted little “Charlie” who is now about 5 months old. He has helped us tremendously and is one of the sweetest, loving dogs ever. Some nights he rotates sleeping in the bed with one of the kids (nearly pushing them out) or us and he loves, loves, loves the kids. He is a tall, lanky boxer with huge ears and a very wrinkly face. He is just great. His favorite toy? Any of the kids stuffed animals. He drags them out all over the place nearly every day and made one his own that we all call “kitty”. It is so funny. It has helped us all move on though our hearts will forever be tied to our Sammy too. I believe he may have had a hand in directing us to little Charlie!
We hope to hear from you as well. Send us your blog update, a letter or something! We wanna know and yes we actually read those we get!
God bless you in 2012 and may He shine His light of grace, mercy, abundance and love on you this next year!
Brady, Julie, Chloe, Sidney, Quinn, Max and Charlie!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Ahhh....Another Thanksgiving
Family, Football and Food. Need I say more?
Thank God I was born an American. FOR. REAL. To all you haters, what would you be doing in Zimbabwe right now?
This holiday season I am certainly thankful for my faith, my family, my kids, my wife, my friends and so much more. But it's the little things I wanna list that I need to give some shouts out to:
- the ability to avoid Black Friday shopping and do 99% of my shopping online
- my iPhone
- Foo Fighters
- the fact they are building a ChickFiLa less than a mile from my house
- the Astros moving to the American League in 2013
- Phineas and Ferb
- Charlie (our new boxer) and his big ears, long legs and wrinkled face
- Stryper's "Winter Wonderland"
- the price of gold
- Wireless service on certain airlines
- Angry Birds and Words WF
- The "Occupy" protestors (pure entertainment)
- Mazzio's Pizza
Surely this isn't an exhaustive list, but you get the idea. Life is good. Real good. I'm just thankful each day I get a chance to run the clock another 24 hours.
God is good, isn't He?
Thank God I was born an American. FOR. REAL. To all you haters, what would you be doing in Zimbabwe right now?
This holiday season I am certainly thankful for my faith, my family, my kids, my wife, my friends and so much more. But it's the little things I wanna list that I need to give some shouts out to:
- the ability to avoid Black Friday shopping and do 99% of my shopping online
- my iPhone
- Foo Fighters
- the fact they are building a ChickFiLa less than a mile from my house
- the Astros moving to the American League in 2013
- Phineas and Ferb
- Charlie (our new boxer) and his big ears, long legs and wrinkled face
- Stryper's "Winter Wonderland"
- the price of gold
- Wireless service on certain airlines
- Angry Birds and Words WF
- The "Occupy" protestors (pure entertainment)
- Mazzio's Pizza
Surely this isn't an exhaustive list, but you get the idea. Life is good. Real good. I'm just thankful each day I get a chance to run the clock another 24 hours.
God is good, isn't He?
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
For All You Rangers Fans...
It's not as bad as it feels.
No doubt about it. The Rangers blew it in the 2011 World Series. If our pitching would have been just 20% better we win that series in 5 games. Then the gut wrencher in game 6. Ugh. I’m still ticked. Most teams would never recover.
But our Rangers will.
Two other teams have gone to back-to-back World Series and lost them only to eventually win a world championship - the Dodgers and the Braves. Both created legacies of winning and baseball fans now give them their respect.
The Rangers are in the process of doing the same and here’s why we should all be excited about the future.
- All key players will return
- West division opponents are getting older and not better
- Experience has been gained like no other
- Executives like Nolan and Daniels – enough said
- Coach Washington – again enough said
- Players are very young
- Farm system is ranked near the top in all positions
- BIG MONEY is coming in 2014 with FSSW contract which means Nolan can spend big now and he will
- Fan base is very strong
- God is a Rangers fan
Essentially, we probably got to the World Series a year or two too early. That being said, we had lots of intense, stressful but fun baseball in all of October. Most other fans didn’t!
I’m still in shock by how it all came crashing down. But, hearing all of the above over the radio this week made me feel a ton better. We are building a winning franchise. A team that will likely be in the playoffs many more times and will certainly have a chance to get the ring we gave away in 2011.
Spring training starts in February. Antlers up.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Ten Years Later
Most of us know exactly where we were when the events of 9/11 unfolded. I was standing in my room getting ready when I just happened to turn on the ABC morning news. I watched the 2nd plane hit the other tower live. I will never forget my heart stopping in that moment.
A few minutes later I stood with my other co-workers and my business partner watching a small TV I grabbed. In total silence.
Then the towers fell.
And our world changed forever.
Julie and I sat and balled our eyes out later that week as we watched the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, located on the top floors of one of the towers, talk about ALL of their 658 employees that day. All of them. He lived only because he was taking his son to nursery.
As we remember the horror of that day, we to need to recall the heroism we all witnessed. Many gave their lives in attempts to save others. They acted fearless in the face of an act of evil none could express. I am still amazed when I hear their stories. As one, America stood strong, even if only for a moment.
Sadly, terrorism is still alive and well. The war will never be won. All we can do is guard, protect and stand up to it.
But today, on the 10th anniversary of that horrible day in NYC, in DC and in a field of PA, I'm thankful as I was on that day to be an American.
9/11 was our generations "pearl harbor". It was so sad. It was so painful. It was so wrong. But 10 years later, we remain renewed and stronger in some ways.
The terrorist that performed "ji-had" on us that day must have been surprised when their 70 virgins were nowhere to be found as they stepped into hell instead of paradise.
They are now dead and gone, yet but America remains.
Take that.
A few minutes later I stood with my other co-workers and my business partner watching a small TV I grabbed. In total silence.
Then the towers fell.
And our world changed forever.
Julie and I sat and balled our eyes out later that week as we watched the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, located on the top floors of one of the towers, talk about ALL of their 658 employees that day. All of them. He lived only because he was taking his son to nursery.
As we remember the horror of that day, we to need to recall the heroism we all witnessed. Many gave their lives in attempts to save others. They acted fearless in the face of an act of evil none could express. I am still amazed when I hear their stories. As one, America stood strong, even if only for a moment.
Sadly, terrorism is still alive and well. The war will never be won. All we can do is guard, protect and stand up to it.
But today, on the 10th anniversary of that horrible day in NYC, in DC and in a field of PA, I'm thankful as I was on that day to be an American.
9/11 was our generations "pearl harbor". It was so sad. It was so painful. It was so wrong. But 10 years later, we remain renewed and stronger in some ways.
The terrorist that performed "ji-had" on us that day must have been surprised when their 70 virgins were nowhere to be found as they stepped into hell instead of paradise.
They are now dead and gone, yet but America remains.
Take that.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Meet Charlie...
Saturday was a new day for the family as we introduced "Charlie" into our lives, as our newest member.
Our 10 year old boxer, Sam died suddenly just a few weeks ago, and we were all heartbroken. Boxers are just the most amazing dog in the world with families and Sam was even more unique and special.
But if dogs could speak, we know Sam would want his "spirit" in our home to continue through another. And, I think we have found the perfect next one.
I found this lady with one boy pup left near Denton. He was fully registered, which to me is important, and she was willing to give us a great deal on his adoption fees after I told her our recent loss. The kids had already decided our next dog would be called "Charlie" and so we had to find out if this dog was in fact a "Charlie" or not.
He sure is.
Funny thing is, once we got to this breeder's home, we learned that the dad dog was named "Charlie" too! The kids were excited.
We can already tell Charlie is gonna fit right in. He loves his new older brother Max (and Max has taken to him well being old and blind and all) and Charlie just has a great, loving, playful personality. The kids are beyond excited, and honestly, Julie and I are too.
Someone told me the only way to get over your first boxer, is to have another.
We will never "get over" Sam. He was so, so special and will always be missed, but it is neat to see the boxer spirit he gave this home already continue in this new little guy!
God, thank you for dogs, and thanks even more for boxers!
Our 10 year old boxer, Sam died suddenly just a few weeks ago, and we were all heartbroken. Boxers are just the most amazing dog in the world with families and Sam was even more unique and special.
But if dogs could speak, we know Sam would want his "spirit" in our home to continue through another. And, I think we have found the perfect next one.
I found this lady with one boy pup left near Denton. He was fully registered, which to me is important, and she was willing to give us a great deal on his adoption fees after I told her our recent loss. The kids had already decided our next dog would be called "Charlie" and so we had to find out if this dog was in fact a "Charlie" or not.
He sure is.
Funny thing is, once we got to this breeder's home, we learned that the dad dog was named "Charlie" too! The kids were excited.
We can already tell Charlie is gonna fit right in. He loves his new older brother Max (and Max has taken to him well being old and blind and all) and Charlie just has a great, loving, playful personality. The kids are beyond excited, and honestly, Julie and I are too.
Someone told me the only way to get over your first boxer, is to have another.
We will never "get over" Sam. He was so, so special and will always be missed, but it is neat to see the boxer spirit he gave this home already continue in this new little guy!
God, thank you for dogs, and thanks even more for boxers!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
What the Bible Says About Animals/Pets
In the wake of our dog Sam dying last week, I spent a little time reading about God's take on the animals of the world. Though the bible never mentions pets, the Bible is clear about a few things that should give those of us that have lost a pet, some comfort.
God made animals before he made man.
God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Gen 1:25
Animals will be in heaven.
In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together;
the leopard will lie down with the baby goat.
The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion,
and a little child will lead them all. Isa 11:6
We are to love and care for our animals.
The godly care for their animals… Prov 12:10a
There will be surprises in heaven – our pets?
What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him…I Cor 2:9
This last one is my favorite. God is good, right? Well, doesn't it just sound like Him to surprise us when we arrive in heaven to have all of our beloved pets run up to us? It does to me. He is THAT good and He loves to surprise his children just like we do our own!
I hope this helps. It has helped us.
God made animals before he made man.
God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Gen 1:25
Animals will be in heaven.
In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together;
the leopard will lie down with the baby goat.
The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion,
and a little child will lead them all. Isa 11:6
We are to love and care for our animals.
The godly care for their animals… Prov 12:10a
There will be surprises in heaven – our pets?
What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him…I Cor 2:9
This last one is my favorite. God is good, right? Well, doesn't it just sound like Him to surprise us when we arrive in heaven to have all of our beloved pets run up to us? It does to me. He is THAT good and He loves to surprise his children just like we do our own!
I hope this helps. It has helped us.
Monday, August 22, 2011
First Day of School a Hit
Despite the crowds and the chaos, the girls both liked their new school and school day at Elizabeth Smith. Going to pre-school certainly helped the last few years but even Chloe said the new 7:50-3:15 day was "too long". LOL. I AGREE!
They have separate classes (Mrs. Ann & Mrs. Butler) but they do get to see each other sometimes and seem to like it already. It is scary to see them grow so fast!
I know we will one day go back and see their "12th Grade, 2024" sign and say to ourselves, "it felt like it was just yesterday we were standing in front of Smith Elementary and they were 6!"
Quinn is around the corner too!
Mark my words....
Embrace Life - it is an adventure...
They have separate classes (Mrs. Ann & Mrs. Butler) but they do get to see each other sometimes and seem to like it already. It is scary to see them grow so fast!
I know we will one day go back and see their "12th Grade, 2024" sign and say to ourselves, "it felt like it was just yesterday we were standing in front of Smith Elementary and they were 6!"
Quinn is around the corner too!
Mark my words....
Embrace Life - it is an adventure...
13 Year School Journey Has Begun...
I never really thought much about this day until all of a sudden it was here.
Our girls are now in the real school system!!!! They have started Kindergarten at Smith Elementary! It's literally 1 block from the house and we are personal friends with both of their teachers but.....
Y-I-K-E-S!!!!
What a change our entire family is embracing. M-F early mornings, homework, activities galore, new friends, teacher conferences, notes home (hopefully not!), report cards, BOYFRIENDS!!!! AHHHHHHH!!!!
KILL - ME - NOW
Ok....got that off my mind.
As parents we are nervous, excited and sad all at the same time. Our girls are no longer babies. They are girls, on their way to pre-teens, teens and beyond.
I must find a way to slow this down....must....find...a.....way....
Our girls are now in the real school system!!!! They have started Kindergarten at Smith Elementary! It's literally 1 block from the house and we are personal friends with both of their teachers but.....
Y-I-K-E-S!!!!
What a change our entire family is embracing. M-F early mornings, homework, activities galore, new friends, teacher conferences, notes home (hopefully not!), report cards, BOYFRIENDS!!!! AHHHHHHH!!!!
KILL - ME - NOW
Ok....got that off my mind.
As parents we are nervous, excited and sad all at the same time. Our girls are no longer babies. They are girls, on their way to pre-teens, teens and beyond.
I must find a way to slow this down....must....find...a.....way....
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Chloe & Sidney Turn Six!
On this day 6 years ago our lives changed forever, as our identical twin daughters joined our family.
Chloe came in to the world at 3lbs 5oz and 18 seconds later came Sidney at 4 lbs 11oz.
What amazingly beautiful little girls they have become!
Thanks to the amazing doctors involved and staff at Arlington Memorial NICU for helping ensure that TTTS did not steal them from us!
Happy Birthday to my girls!
http://www.photodex.com/share/speers/7a796mg4
Chloe came in to the world at 3lbs 5oz and 18 seconds later came Sidney at 4 lbs 11oz.
What amazingly beautiful little girls they have become!
Thanks to the amazing doctors involved and staff at Arlington Memorial NICU for helping ensure that TTTS did not steal them from us!
Happy Birthday to my girls!
http://www.photodex.com/share/speers/7a796mg4
Embracing a New Normal
This is a weekend of change for our family. A new normal is settling in. Some of it is sad, some is fun and some is a little nerveracking for sure.
1. Life without Sam is going to be an adjustment. For 10 years we enjoyed the "Max & Sam" show, but now our love and attention will have to focus on old Maxie...
2. Girls promote at church to the "kids" area and are no longer downstairs in the "baby/preschool" area. Plus, they start going to "big church" with us each Sunday. Quinn will go up another "grade" too!
3. Our class at church is changing service times to the 2nd service. New classroom too!
4. The girls start school FOR REAL tomorrow as the go to Smith for Kindergarten! Wow!
This is our new normal. Life is an adventure. We WILL embrace it!
1. Life without Sam is going to be an adjustment. For 10 years we enjoyed the "Max & Sam" show, but now our love and attention will have to focus on old Maxie...
2. Girls promote at church to the "kids" area and are no longer downstairs in the "baby/preschool" area. Plus, they start going to "big church" with us each Sunday. Quinn will go up another "grade" too!
3. Our class at church is changing service times to the 2nd service. New classroom too!
4. The girls start school FOR REAL tomorrow as the go to Smith for Kindergarten! Wow!
This is our new normal. Life is an adventure. We WILL embrace it!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
TTTS Nearly Killed Our Girls
The specialist told us, "Go straight to the hospital right now. Do not go home. We are going to get these girls."
It was August 19, 2005, and Julie and I had been sent to see this doctor out of some concerns our regular doctor had seen in the last sonogram of our twin girls. It was week 33 and Sidney appeared to be much larger than Chloe. Sid was growing and Chlo wasn't. Not good. Not good at all.
Having no clue what TTTS (twin to twin transfusion syndrome) was, we quickly left his office, went home against his instructions to get some stuff and then drove 30 minutes to our hospital. Immediately the nurses hooked heart monitors up to Julie's belly and for the next 48 hours it was nervous-city as we waited for the girls to hit the 34 week mark so Dr. Neill could go in and pull them out.
TTTS is a condition in which one twin dominates the other in terms of getting most of the mother's blood and nutrients. What happens in MOST cases is it is discovered too late and the twins die a silent death. One starves while the other drowns in too much.
Had our doctor not seen this and sent us to this specialist, Chloe and Sidney would likely not be here today. Those two doctors saved our girls' lives. TTTS was not going to win this one.
Sunday, the 21st, it was time to go get them. Hearts were still beating but it had been long enough. He went in and got them out. Sidney was big and red, and Chloe was frail and pale; lifeless and without breath at first. But our little fighter hung in there, came to life and thanks to the NICU staff made it home a few weeks later.
Our story was a miracle, but for many parents of twins, the endings are terrible when TTTS is present. Research is helping and giving hope but it cannot be done without our help.
In honor of Chloe and Sidney please consider giving a few dollars on their birth weekend to the Fetal Hope Foundation, a supported of TTTS research.
www.fetalhope.org
It was August 19, 2005, and Julie and I had been sent to see this doctor out of some concerns our regular doctor had seen in the last sonogram of our twin girls. It was week 33 and Sidney appeared to be much larger than Chloe. Sid was growing and Chlo wasn't. Not good. Not good at all.
Having no clue what TTTS (twin to twin transfusion syndrome) was, we quickly left his office, went home against his instructions to get some stuff and then drove 30 minutes to our hospital. Immediately the nurses hooked heart monitors up to Julie's belly and for the next 48 hours it was nervous-city as we waited for the girls to hit the 34 week mark so Dr. Neill could go in and pull them out.
TTTS is a condition in which one twin dominates the other in terms of getting most of the mother's blood and nutrients. What happens in MOST cases is it is discovered too late and the twins die a silent death. One starves while the other drowns in too much.
Had our doctor not seen this and sent us to this specialist, Chloe and Sidney would likely not be here today. Those two doctors saved our girls' lives. TTTS was not going to win this one.
Sunday, the 21st, it was time to go get them. Hearts were still beating but it had been long enough. He went in and got them out. Sidney was big and red, and Chloe was frail and pale; lifeless and without breath at first. But our little fighter hung in there, came to life and thanks to the NICU staff made it home a few weeks later.
Our story was a miracle, but for many parents of twins, the endings are terrible when TTTS is present. Research is helping and giving hope but it cannot be done without our help.
In honor of Chloe and Sidney please consider giving a few dollars on their birth weekend to the Fetal Hope Foundation, a supported of TTTS research.
www.fetalhope.org
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Thanks to a Young Korean Woman
She had to have been in total shock as the reality of learning she was pregnant hit her. Then the truth of her situation likely brought on intense fear.
There was no way she could have this child. Certainly the devil himself was whispering "abortion" in her mind and likely through some peers. If they even knew, that is.
Surely on this day, the day he was born 9 months later and the day you gave him hope, his face comes across your mind.
You wonder if his smile still sets him apart. It does.
You wonder if he loves the life he has. He does.
You wonder if he is told about you. He is.
You wonder if he brings joy despite your pain. He does.
You wonder if he is Korean or American. He is.
You wonder if he can tell his own story. He can.
You wonder if he lights up those around him. He always has.
Quinn Seong Wook is one of the cutest, loving boys in the world; a natural joy-maker with a twinkle smile that rivals St. Nick. In many ways, God shines through him every day.
To some young woman living her life near the city of Seoul, South Korea, we say thank you. Because of you, one less child has been destroyed, one more life has hope and our family (and friends) have been blessed beyond words.
Thank you for being strong. Thank you for saying "no!" to death and "yes!" to life. Thank you for making the hardest decision of all and opting to allow parents from across the globe to care for and raise this child. I cannot imagine the pain as he was whisked away to a world you'll likely never know. Those sobs that day were deep, real and surely touched the heart of God.
We are honored to love, protect, provide for and share our lives with the sweetest boy a parent could hope for.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for not killing him when you could.
Thank you for being our hero.
There was no way she could have this child. Certainly the devil himself was whispering "abortion" in her mind and likely through some peers. If they even knew, that is.
Surely on this day, the day he was born 9 months later and the day you gave him hope, his face comes across your mind.
You wonder if his smile still sets him apart. It does.
You wonder if he loves the life he has. He does.
You wonder if he is told about you. He is.
You wonder if he brings joy despite your pain. He does.
You wonder if he is Korean or American. He is.
You wonder if he can tell his own story. He can.
You wonder if he lights up those around him. He always has.
Quinn Seong Wook is one of the cutest, loving boys in the world; a natural joy-maker with a twinkle smile that rivals St. Nick. In many ways, God shines through him every day.
To some young woman living her life near the city of Seoul, South Korea, we say thank you. Because of you, one less child has been destroyed, one more life has hope and our family (and friends) have been blessed beyond words.
Thank you for being strong. Thank you for saying "no!" to death and "yes!" to life. Thank you for making the hardest decision of all and opting to allow parents from across the globe to care for and raise this child. I cannot imagine the pain as he was whisked away to a world you'll likely never know. Those sobs that day were deep, real and surely touched the heart of God.
We are honored to love, protect, provide for and share our lives with the sweetest boy a parent could hope for.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for not killing him when you could.
Thank you for being our hero.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Enough is Enough
We know this is a difficult time for each of you. We have been there. Completely demoralized and in shock by the treatment we received from the pastor that married us, who dedicated our girls to the Lord, and that we proudly served the Lord with.
For nearly 7 years we gave everything - our time, our money and our service.
And yet one poorly managed incident, that I simply questioned leadership about, ended it all.
That was 2004.
Seven years later it has only gotten worse and the list of good people hurt has only gotten longer. I could name them all but I won't to protect the innocent...
Stop the hurt, stop the lies, stop the madness and stand up for yourselves, YOUR church and your calling as a body.
Pastors are not called to control, run-over and demean their flock. They are called to serve, love, lead and protect. He does none of those.
Sure you can pray - but as we have done....from a distance and from somewhere new.
We are praying for each of you and love you all. Our hearts are broken to hear about the rudeness, decit, lack of grace, unkindness, and pain one man has caused many of you. He himself needs to be removed and escorted off the property like he has done to so many. There is one of him and almost 5,000 of you.
If you feel called to stay - open your eyes. See the truth and expose the evil going on. It's your church, not his....and it can be saved.
Just be careful trying.
http://www.batteredsheep.com/abusive_02.html
http://stevenjcamp.blogspot.com/2006/06/holding-pastors-accountablebeing.html
For nearly 7 years we gave everything - our time, our money and our service.
And yet one poorly managed incident, that I simply questioned leadership about, ended it all.
That was 2004.
Seven years later it has only gotten worse and the list of good people hurt has only gotten longer. I could name them all but I won't to protect the innocent...
Stop the hurt, stop the lies, stop the madness and stand up for yourselves, YOUR church and your calling as a body.
Pastors are not called to control, run-over and demean their flock. They are called to serve, love, lead and protect. He does none of those.
Sure you can pray - but as we have done....from a distance and from somewhere new.
We are praying for each of you and love you all. Our hearts are broken to hear about the rudeness, decit, lack of grace, unkindness, and pain one man has caused many of you. He himself needs to be removed and escorted off the property like he has done to so many. There is one of him and almost 5,000 of you.
If you feel called to stay - open your eyes. See the truth and expose the evil going on. It's your church, not his....and it can be saved.
Just be careful trying.
http://www.batteredsheep.com/abusive_02.html
http://stevenjcamp.blogspot.com/2006/06/holding-pastors-accountablebeing.html
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Our Little Vacation Secret
For years we have traveled to Galveston and rented a beach house on the west end of the island for our annual coastal getaway. Having grown up near the beach south of Houston, it's something I truly look forward to each year.
In 2010 we discovered the amazing Galvestonian condos on the east side right at the end of the seawall. Once again this year we rented another condo for the week and enjoyed days of private beach fun, a large pool and the closeness of being right near the city.
We topped of the trip with visits to Kemah, putt-putt, Moody Gardens, the Children's Museum, a ferry ride, the Strand, and meals at Marios, The Spot and the Original Mexican Cafe. Throw in some original Shipley's donuts and it was one fun week!
The kids just had a blast. We saw dolphins on the ferry ride, bought some hermit crabs, and they loved playing the Wii at night too!
I didn't even check my email all week -which is a first!
Seven days of bliss. Can't wait until we get to go back to our secret place again!
In 2010 we discovered the amazing Galvestonian condos on the east side right at the end of the seawall. Once again this year we rented another condo for the week and enjoyed days of private beach fun, a large pool and the closeness of being right near the city.
We topped of the trip with visits to Kemah, putt-putt, Moody Gardens, the Children's Museum, a ferry ride, the Strand, and meals at Marios, The Spot and the Original Mexican Cafe. Throw in some original Shipley's donuts and it was one fun week!
The kids just had a blast. We saw dolphins on the ferry ride, bought some hermit crabs, and they loved playing the Wii at night too!
I didn't even check my email all week -which is a first!
Seven days of bliss. Can't wait until we get to go back to our secret place again!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Sports Blessings
I have to admit it. I am a sports addict. It is my drug.
I'm not quite sure how I would function without it.
Over the course of my short 42 years I have been the loyal fan of the Astros, Rangers, Stars, Mavericks, Rockets, Cowboys and yes even the Oilers back in the day.
I can say I am one of the lucky ones to have witnessed my teams achieve the following:
Houston Rockets - NBA Champions 1994, 1995, WC Champions 1986
Dallas Mavericks - NBA Champions 2011, WC Champions 2006
Dallas Stars - NHL Champions 1999, WC Champions 2000
Houston Astros - NL Champions 2005
Texas Rangers - AL Champions 2010
Houston Oilers - made it to AFL Championship 1978, 1979
Dallas Cowboys - way too much to write!!!!
With great players like Earl Cambell, Tony Dorsett, Michael Irvin, Terrell Owens, Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan, Mike Modano, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Dirk Nowitzi, and coaches like Tom Landry, Johnny Oates, Ken Hitchcock, Bum Phillips, and Bill Parcells, and broadcasters like Milo Hamilton, Chuck Cooperstein, Eric Nadel, Mark Holtz, Ralph Strangis, and the great Brad Sham.....I mean - seriously...that is one amazing list!
I have enjoyed watching games in the Astrodome, Minute Maid Park, The Summit, Reunion Arena, The AAC, Ballpark in Arlington, Texas Stadium, and Cowboys Stadium and have been fortunate enough to attend the Stanley Cup in 2000, World Series in 2005 and 2010 as well as the NBA Finals in 2006.
I just need one more SuperBowl appearance and I will have completed the cycle. (I could be 80 on that one too!).
I do love sports and sports has been good to me. From Jose Cruuuuuuuuuzzzz to Darryl the Moooooooose Johnston it has been a fun, fun ride topped off so far with the Mavs recent championship!
Now, let's go make this list even longer!!!!
I'm not quite sure how I would function without it.
Over the course of my short 42 years I have been the loyal fan of the Astros, Rangers, Stars, Mavericks, Rockets, Cowboys and yes even the Oilers back in the day.
I can say I am one of the lucky ones to have witnessed my teams achieve the following:
Houston Rockets - NBA Champions 1994, 1995, WC Champions 1986
Dallas Mavericks - NBA Champions 2011, WC Champions 2006
Dallas Stars - NHL Champions 1999, WC Champions 2000
Houston Astros - NL Champions 2005
Texas Rangers - AL Champions 2010
Houston Oilers - made it to AFL Championship 1978, 1979
Dallas Cowboys - way too much to write!!!!
With great players like Earl Cambell, Tony Dorsett, Michael Irvin, Terrell Owens, Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan, Mike Modano, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Dirk Nowitzi, and coaches like Tom Landry, Johnny Oates, Ken Hitchcock, Bum Phillips, and Bill Parcells, and broadcasters like Milo Hamilton, Chuck Cooperstein, Eric Nadel, Mark Holtz, Ralph Strangis, and the great Brad Sham.....I mean - seriously...that is one amazing list!
I have enjoyed watching games in the Astrodome, Minute Maid Park, The Summit, Reunion Arena, The AAC, Ballpark in Arlington, Texas Stadium, and Cowboys Stadium and have been fortunate enough to attend the Stanley Cup in 2000, World Series in 2005 and 2010 as well as the NBA Finals in 2006.
I just need one more SuperBowl appearance and I will have completed the cycle. (I could be 80 on that one too!).
I do love sports and sports has been good to me. From Jose Cruuuuuuuuuzzzz to Darryl the Moooooooose Johnston it has been a fun, fun ride topped off so far with the Mavs recent championship!
Now, let's go make this list even longer!!!!
Saturday, May 28, 2011
A Journey Through the Bible
In May of 2009 I went on a journey; a long, almost daily, journey that involved a bunch of thought provoking reading and thinking.
Last week, May of 2011, I completed a journey every believer should take when I read the Bible from front to back, just 2-3 chapters a day, underlying key words, phrases and verses all along the way.
And these are my simple, non-theologian thoughts on this amazing book.
Certainly throughout my life I have read every book of the Bible and many Christians have read God’s word through the “One Year Bible” method. But honestly, after years of reading and loving God’s word, I realized I had never truly read it like a novel; starting at page one and reading until the end all the way through. Add taking the time to read it slow and highlight various aspects to each verse, and it’s a journey that can take a while.
It was worth every minute.
After a business tragedy hit my family in May of 2009 God laid it on my heart to get into His word for strength, peace and comfort. I wasn’t sure how books like Leviticus would do that, but frankly one of the key verses I discovered in this process came right out of that book! God is always full of surprises.
Now I know there are thousands of people who have spent their life studying the Bible - breaking it down into every small detail and part imaginable. Theologians, Pastors, Bible scholars, and even Bible critics have all spent much more time than I have for sure in such study.
But the thematic breakdown for me was quite simple. The Bible is a collective play of many stories depicting the stubbornness and ill ways of Man within the back drop of the grace and judgement of a holy God.
It just doesn't get much easier than that. Really.
Man continues to think he has it all figured out...turns away from God in pride and sin....something tragic happens in which Man needs God to bail them out....God comes to the rescue...Man turns back to God out of thankfulness and the cycle repeats over and over again.
Over the last two years this repetitive story line was always right in front of me, from Genesis through Revelation.
In short I would say this:
- man is sinful, disloyal, weak, inconsistent, small, arrogant, and yet creative
- God is forgiving, jealous, holy and loving
In the end we can only be the best God made us to be by realizing that without the Creator we are doomed to be the above.
All God wants is for us to ask forgiveness, never forget Him, be thankful for all He has and continues to do, and live a good life as a way of showing Him how much we care.
Like the ones before me, I am far from doing all of the above. Without His grace I would be certain for Hell.
I'm just thankful God gave me 2 years worth of reading to see that I'm not the only one...
Last week, May of 2011, I completed a journey every believer should take when I read the Bible from front to back, just 2-3 chapters a day, underlying key words, phrases and verses all along the way.
And these are my simple, non-theologian thoughts on this amazing book.
Certainly throughout my life I have read every book of the Bible and many Christians have read God’s word through the “One Year Bible” method. But honestly, after years of reading and loving God’s word, I realized I had never truly read it like a novel; starting at page one and reading until the end all the way through. Add taking the time to read it slow and highlight various aspects to each verse, and it’s a journey that can take a while.
It was worth every minute.
After a business tragedy hit my family in May of 2009 God laid it on my heart to get into His word for strength, peace and comfort. I wasn’t sure how books like Leviticus would do that, but frankly one of the key verses I discovered in this process came right out of that book! God is always full of surprises.
Now I know there are thousands of people who have spent their life studying the Bible - breaking it down into every small detail and part imaginable. Theologians, Pastors, Bible scholars, and even Bible critics have all spent much more time than I have for sure in such study.
But the thematic breakdown for me was quite simple. The Bible is a collective play of many stories depicting the stubbornness and ill ways of Man within the back drop of the grace and judgement of a holy God.
It just doesn't get much easier than that. Really.
Man continues to think he has it all figured out...turns away from God in pride and sin....something tragic happens in which Man needs God to bail them out....God comes to the rescue...Man turns back to God out of thankfulness and the cycle repeats over and over again.
Over the last two years this repetitive story line was always right in front of me, from Genesis through Revelation.
In short I would say this:
- man is sinful, disloyal, weak, inconsistent, small, arrogant, and yet creative
- God is forgiving, jealous, holy and loving
In the end we can only be the best God made us to be by realizing that without the Creator we are doomed to be the above.
All God wants is for us to ask forgiveness, never forget Him, be thankful for all He has and continues to do, and live a good life as a way of showing Him how much we care.
Like the ones before me, I am far from doing all of the above. Without His grace I would be certain for Hell.
I'm just thankful God gave me 2 years worth of reading to see that I'm not the only one...
Friday, May 27, 2011
Graduation One Complete
Sidney and Chloe strolled across the stage Wednesday morning as new pre-school graduates of Ridge Kids...provided by our church Walnut Ridge Baptist.
In a neat little ceremony the girls got to dress up in cap and gown, sing a few songs, and watch a wonderful slide show of them and all their friends.
As Julie and I watched together, me with video camera in tow of course, we couldn't help but both get a little emotional. Our little girls were already saying goodbye to one of their childhood phases.
They are officially no longer our little "babies". They are now our big, yet "little girls" - and oh how proud they are!
In just a little over 90 days we will be walking our babies into their new "big girl school" right down the street as they start the next phase of Elementary school. At least this time, the next graduation phase isn't for another 7 years. It just scares me when I think about how fast the last 6 have gone!
In 2005, God chose to bless us with these two little girls. It's now our job to parent them up for this crazy world we all live in. It's a chore, nights can be sleepless and money is always tight, but we certainly wouldn't have it any other way!
I just wish it would all slow down some...
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Big Loss For our World - Dr. Kim Dies
This world has lost another amazing person as Dr. Kim Duk Whang, one of the pioneers of international adoption, died this week at the age of 96.
In 2008 Julie and I flew to South Korea to meet the people of Eastern Social Welfare Society, an orphanage in Seoul, and to bring home our son. Dr. Kim took the time out of his busy day running numerous aspects of this large organization to speak to us and to tell us about his heart for the needy and his love for children. Sitting in his office that day hearing him share his story and his vision for the future was awe inspiring and humbling. He even signed and game us a personal copy of a book he wrote about Christianity in Korea.
Dr. Kim started ESWS in 1972 after seeing the need orphans in South Korea had for love and adoption. At the time adoption was unheard of in South Korea. Orphans needed love and care and Dr. Kim stepped in to meet that need. Today ESWS is a very large ministry with offices and locations all over South Korea that helps orphans and needy children find families, get educated and receive love and medical care. see: http://www.eastern.or.kr/eastern/main/main.jsp?c_no=002
If only we could all be half the man Dr. Kim was our world would be a better place. Because of this man we have a son. Because of this man thousands and thousands of children around the world have families and parents have children.
Dr. Kim loved on orphans and built an organization that will continue this service to mankind and God for decades to come. He was an advocate for children like one this world has never seen.
Do doubt this man fulfilled his calling and did a job "well done". His reward will be great.
Now it's our turn...
http://www.eastern.or.kr/eastern/board/detail.jsp?bt_no=33&c_no=002006001&b_no=32650&page=1
In 2008 Julie and I flew to South Korea to meet the people of Eastern Social Welfare Society, an orphanage in Seoul, and to bring home our son. Dr. Kim took the time out of his busy day running numerous aspects of this large organization to speak to us and to tell us about his heart for the needy and his love for children. Sitting in his office that day hearing him share his story and his vision for the future was awe inspiring and humbling. He even signed and game us a personal copy of a book he wrote about Christianity in Korea.
Dr. Kim started ESWS in 1972 after seeing the need orphans in South Korea had for love and adoption. At the time adoption was unheard of in South Korea. Orphans needed love and care and Dr. Kim stepped in to meet that need. Today ESWS is a very large ministry with offices and locations all over South Korea that helps orphans and needy children find families, get educated and receive love and medical care. see: http://www.eastern.or.kr/eastern/main/main.jsp?c_no=002
If only we could all be half the man Dr. Kim was our world would be a better place. Because of this man we have a son. Because of this man thousands and thousands of children around the world have families and parents have children.
Dr. Kim loved on orphans and built an organization that will continue this service to mankind and God for decades to come. He was an advocate for children like one this world has never seen.
Do doubt this man fulfilled his calling and did a job "well done". His reward will be great.
Now it's our turn...
http://www.eastern.or.kr/eastern/board/detail.jsp?bt_no=33&c_no=002006001&b_no=32650&page=1
Monday, May 16, 2011
Final Shuttle Goodbye - Almost
I will never forget standing in the playground grade school at Green Elementary when the Shuttle flew across right across the school on the back of a 777 during a landing at Ellington Air force Base in South Houston. We all froze and watched in amazement at this incredible space bird sitting piggy-back atop the largest airplane known to man. It was so low it was like I could touch it.
Growing up in Friendswood, Texas, a small town about 3 miles from NASA, I heard about the Shuttle nearly every day. The entire area was alive with NASA news all the time and many in our social network had someone that worked in relation to the space program.
Today the next to last Shuttle mission started and the last one is set for July, which will end nearly 30 years of voyages to "infinity and beyond".
I know Houston has to be a little sad today. A chapter in space flight comes to an end and for many of us, it has been apart of us most of our lives. Who knows what the next phase holds but I'm sure when the next vehicle to space is developed, Houston will play a vital role.
And we all will watch in all just like we have for the Shuttle.
Goodbye Shuttle and thanks for the memories!
Growing up in Friendswood, Texas, a small town about 3 miles from NASA, I heard about the Shuttle nearly every day. The entire area was alive with NASA news all the time and many in our social network had someone that worked in relation to the space program.
Today the next to last Shuttle mission started and the last one is set for July, which will end nearly 30 years of voyages to "infinity and beyond".
I know Houston has to be a little sad today. A chapter in space flight comes to an end and for many of us, it has been apart of us most of our lives. Who knows what the next phase holds but I'm sure when the next vehicle to space is developed, Houston will play a vital role.
And we all will watch in all just like we have for the Shuttle.
Goodbye Shuttle and thanks for the memories!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
8 Years and Counting
Julie and I made a promise to each other and still talk about it all the time.
We will not get divorced.
Seeing so many of our friends get divorced for such shallow reasons makes us sick, especially when kids are involved.
Since we met in 2001 and married in 2003, we have had a wonderful, balanced, easy going relationship. We have fun, we have the same values and beliefs, smae friends, and we love being parents and being together.
This week we celebrated our 8th anniversary. Here's to another year behind us and many more in front.
I love my wife and I know she loves me.
What else could anyone want in life? G.I.G.
We will not get divorced.
Seeing so many of our friends get divorced for such shallow reasons makes us sick, especially when kids are involved.
Since we met in 2001 and married in 2003, we have had a wonderful, balanced, easy going relationship. We have fun, we have the same values and beliefs, smae friends, and we love being parents and being together.
This week we celebrated our 8th anniversary. Here's to another year behind us and many more in front.
I love my wife and I know she loves me.
What else could anyone want in life? G.I.G.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Gotcha Forever Family Day 3
Three years ago Julie and I were experiencing life on the other side of the planet in South Korea getting ready to bring our son Quinn Seong Wook home to his forever family. It was a fast paced dash of seeing and learning some of the culture. It was truly one of the greatest weeks in our life. We cannot wait to go back with Quinny and the gang in tow.
We fell in love with this little boy the moment we saw him on our adoption agency's website. We quickly learned his nickname was "Mr. Smiley" and that smile was exactly what our family and life needed.
Quinn "the pooh" is one of the cutest, fun loving little boys in the world. Sure he has his moments, but he truly is one of the happiest little boys I've ever seen.
God is so good to allow us to be his forever family surrounding him with even more love from our friends and family members.
People always say "He is so blessed to have you". Boy, how wrong they are. We are so blessed to have him!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Another First
Our little Sidney lost her first tooth last week. She has another about to fall out.
Chloe has 3-4 that are getting loose.
This is NOT funny.
Sounds crazy but it nearly made Julie and me cry when that tooth came out. How can it be already that ADULT teeth will soon appear!??
Sidney proudly put it in her tooth fairy box and later that night it departed the earth in place of a $1 bill.
Life is so good, but PLEASE slow down would ya??!
Chloe has 3-4 that are getting loose.
This is NOT funny.
Sounds crazy but it nearly made Julie and me cry when that tooth came out. How can it be already that ADULT teeth will soon appear!??
Sidney proudly put it in her tooth fairy box and later that night it departed the earth in place of a $1 bill.
Life is so good, but PLEASE slow down would ya??!
Friday, February 04, 2011
Going to Disney World Soon? Read This
If you are one of the lucky parents blessed to take your family do Disney World in the future...below are some quick thoughts on what we learned regarding going with young kids.
- Buy PARK HOPPER tickets! This is a must!
- Get the parades you wanna see done the first few days and then ride rides during the parade times...
- Animal Kingdom is basically a zoo so spend your time at the others and maybe half day at AK. Bugs Life show is fun and try to have some adult fun on the amazing roller coaster "Expidition". It's fun!
- Prepare yourself to walk more than you can imagine carrying your kids alot of the time! Buy GOOD tennis shoes...I bought cheap ones and paid for it!
- Go in January or April. We've been both times and it's a totally different experience when there are NO LINES to speak of! Time is valuable and spending them in long hot lines is not fun...
- Buy PARK HOPPER tickets! This is a must!
- Get the parades you wanna see done the first few days and then ride rides during the parade times...
- Animal Kingdom is basically a zoo so spend your time at the others and maybe half day at AK. Bugs Life show is fun and try to have some adult fun on the amazing roller coaster "Expidition". It's fun!
- Plan to spend more time at Epcot than you think. Tons the kids will like but you can skip the countries...
- Disney parades, light show and fireworks at Magic Kingdom are a MUST! DO NOT MISS this!
- Find a way to ride Mt. Everest Expedition at Animal Kinkdom without the kids! Amazing roller coaster - same with Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios.
- Use Fast Passes for the long line rides for sure.
- Buy giftcards before you leave - it will help you budget right. (Disney, Visa, etc)
- Do a character meal for sure! We did Chef Mickey one morning at Contemporary Resort and kids freaked. You have to call ahead of time and get reservation!
- Eat breakfast and dinners OFF SITE.
- IceCream shop right in front of the Castle is A MUST!
Disney Dream Comes True
Julie and I both were blessed to have parents that shared the magic of Disney World with us as children and since we started our own family in 2005 it has been our dream to continue that tradition.
In January that dream came true as we flew to Orlando with her parents for a week of fun at Disney World.
For years our 5 year old twin girls and 3 year old boy have enjoyed the music and sounds of Mickey and his gang, including Donald, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale, the Muppets, Handy Manny, and all of his movie star friends - I think we have seen everything from the Aristocats to Toy Story 3. Knowing they all “live” at Disney World, our kiddos freaked when they learned for Christmas we were headed to go see them.
The countdown began and we all couldn’t wait.
We were not disappointed. Between the incredible weather, the amazing rides, the fun interactions with the characters, the nice people that work there and great shows, the week was just a total blast. Though we were all so tired we could barely function once we got home, every minute spent together as a family is a minute no one can ever take away.
Giving our kids experiences and memories that last a lifetime is one of our biggest passions. Our parents did it for us and we long to do the same for ours. Both of us still recall vivid details of those times with our families in the Magic Kingdom decades ago. Add to it our honeymoon in 2003 and Disney World takes up some serious space in our memory banks. Seeing the smiles on our kids faces, watching them interact with their Disney heroes and giving them 5 solid days of absolute fun will just be hard to top.
I guess it will take another trip back to Florida later in life, God willing.
We started missing Mickey and his pals as soon as we left.
See our photo slideshow here:
http://www.photodex.com/share/speers/79769mg4
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Niece Headed to Mission Field, Support Needed
Prayer, Encouragement, Support. This is what my 15 year old niece, Maci, needs now that she has made the courageous commitment to join the iGo mission team this summer in an effort to reach out to the lost farming communities of France.
We all could not be more proud.
Feeling a strong call to take this step of faith, Maci will join a group of other students from around the country and head to Europe in an effort to minister to people that rarely hear the modern Gospel. She is nervously excited about what lays ahead - lots of work, little rest but many new friends and the experience of seeing God in action in another land.
Pray for her trip today and consider helping support her financially. iGo strongly urges students raise their own funds and discourages parents from providing big financial support, so it is all on the rest of her family and friends.
Maci needs our help! Will you please consider supporting her in prayer and in giving?
Send Donations to:
Walnut Ridge Baptist Church
Attn: Wayneen Cassidy c/o Maci Jensen
1201 South SH 360
Mansfield, TX 76063
You will be helping her learn more about God's work while she shares God's love to those in France!
For more visit: http://www.igoglobal.org/
Thanks everyone!
We all could not be more proud.
Feeling a strong call to take this step of faith, Maci will join a group of other students from around the country and head to Europe in an effort to minister to people that rarely hear the modern Gospel. She is nervously excited about what lays ahead - lots of work, little rest but many new friends and the experience of seeing God in action in another land.
Pray for her trip today and consider helping support her financially. iGo strongly urges students raise their own funds and discourages parents from providing big financial support, so it is all on the rest of her family and friends.
Maci needs our help! Will you please consider supporting her in prayer and in giving?
Send Donations to:
Walnut Ridge Baptist Church
Attn: Wayneen Cassidy c/o Maci Jensen
1201 South SH 360
Mansfield, TX 76063
You will be helping her learn more about God's work while she shares God's love to those in France!
For more visit: http://www.igoglobal.org/
Thanks everyone!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Quinn Fund Helps Families Adopt Children in 2009 & 2010
We recently learned that the adoption fund we set up in our son's name helped three kids in 2009 and two more in 2010 find forever families!
Thanks to each of you that have made a special effort to donate what you can to this fund named after Quinn. Every dollar helps a kid like him bless a family like ours!
Dillon International (our adoption agency) handles the fund and because of the economy funds are needed more now than ever before. Please click the link below to donate today! Just choose "Quinn Fund" from the list.
http://www.dillonadopt.org/
I promise fewer things make God smile bigger than helping an orphan!
Thanks everyone!
Thanks to each of you that have made a special effort to donate what you can to this fund named after Quinn. Every dollar helps a kid like him bless a family like ours!
Dillon International (our adoption agency) handles the fund and because of the economy funds are needed more now than ever before. Please click the link below to donate today! Just choose "Quinn Fund" from the list.
http://www.dillonadopt.org/
I promise fewer things make God smile bigger than helping an orphan!
Thanks everyone!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Disney World Is Magic
Every family should have the Disney World experience.
Two of my greatest memories in life center around visits to the world of Disney in the heart of Florida. Mom and dad sacrificed their time and mon
ey to take my sister and me twice during the 80s. Those two trips were some of the greatest times we ever had together.
Nothing compare to seeing Mickey and the gang and watching the Disney World come to life around you. I can recall those times like they were yesterday
and I am so thankful mom and dad created that memory for us.
Eight years ago Julie and I made our own Disney World memories during
our honeymoon stay. She too had gone with her family as a kid. It was so exciting to re-live the childhood memories as newlyweds and 
see sites we hadn't seen in 20+ years. Even in our 30s we still got as excited as kids when we ran across Mickey, Goofy or one of the others. We had our images engraved in stone at Epcot for us to come back and see later. We had no idea one day soon we would do just that, with three kids in tow.
In just a few days, our kids are going to get the experiene of lifetime and so will we as we take our turn in passing down the Disney World visit tradition. The kids are freaking out about seeing Elmo, Cinderella, SnowWhite, Mickey, Donald, Kermit, Woody, Buzz Light Year, and so many others I cannot even remember.
Years later I hope Chloe, Sidney and Quinn have those moments of thinking about this trip. The fun times with mom and dad and each other all while hanging with the Disney gang.
Oh boy, it's gonna be fun!
Two of my greatest memories in life center around visits to the world of Disney in the heart of Florida. Mom and dad sacrificed their time and mon
ey to take my sister and me twice during the 80s. Those two trips were some of the greatest times we ever had together.Nothing compare to seeing Mickey and the gang and watching the Disney World come to life around you. I can recall those times like they were yesterday
and I am so thankful mom and dad created that memory for us.Eight years ago Julie and I made our own Disney World memories during
our honeymoon stay. She too had gone with her family as a kid. It was so exciting to re-live the childhood memories as newlyweds and 
see sites we hadn't seen in 20+ years. Even in our 30s we still got as excited as kids when we ran across Mickey, Goofy or one of the others. We had our images engraved in stone at Epcot for us to come back and see later. We had no idea one day soon we would do just that, with three kids in tow.In just a few days, our kids are going to get the experiene of lifetime and so will we as we take our turn in passing down the Disney World visit tradition. The kids are freaking out about seeing Elmo, Cinderella, SnowWhite, Mickey, Donald, Kermit, Woody, Buzz Light Year, and so many others I cannot even remember.
Years later I hope Chloe, Sidney and Quinn have those moments of thinking about this trip. The fun times with mom and dad and each other all while hanging with the Disney gang.
Oh boy, it's gonna be fun!
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Letter from the NFL
With one of the most exciting regular seasons now completed and the playoffs about to begin, let me first thank you and all NFL fans for your incredible support. Many fans have been asking me where we stand on signing a new collective bargaining agreement with the players union. Let me update you and be clear at the outset:
I know we can and will reach an agreement.
My goal as Commissioner now is to help our teams and players find a solution that is fair to everyone and ensures that football becomes more popular, accessible, and fun. We want the next decade to be the best yet for our fans, and I'm ready to work day and night to make that happen.
We've come a long way. Compare where we are today with 10 years ago. From player accountability to player safety, more and better television coverage, upgrading the in-stadium experience, innovations like the RedZone channel, the Draft in prime time and playing the Pro Bowl before the Super Bowl, we are focused on doing what's best for the players, teams, and fans. My priority is and always will be the game and the fans who love our game.
The NFL is great because fans care deeply about it. Economic conditions, however, have changed dramatically inside and outside the NFL since 2006 when we negotiated the last CBA. A 10 percent unemployment rate hurts us all. Fans have limited budgets and rightly want the most for their money. I get it.
Yes, NFL players deserve to be paid well. Unfortunately, economic realities are forcing everyone to make tough choices and the NFL is no different.
These are not easy negotiations, but the outcome can be positive. If both sides give a little, everyone, including fans, will get a lot and the game will improve through innovation.
Even in difficult economic times, a new CBA presents us with the opportunity to secure the future of our game. You may ask how will the NFL look under this vision?
A significant change would be to resolve fan complaints about preseason by modifying our 20-game format. Fans tell us they don't like the quality of the preseason games, and we're listening. An enhanced season of 18 regular season and two preseason games would not add a single game for the players collectively, but would give fans more meaningful, high-quality football.
Our emphasis on player health and safety is absolutely essential to the future of our game. We are strictly enforcing rules that protect players from unnecessarily dangerous play, especially involving hits to the head. We are changing the "play through it" culture to a "player-first" culture to ensure that if a player has a head injury, he doesn't play again until his health is certain. We are also addressing the potential wear-and-tear on players in the way they train in-season and off-season.
It's not just the health of players that concerns us. We must ensure the health of the league. That includes a new system that properly compensates proven veterans and retired players by shifting some of the outrageous sums paid to many unproven rookies. Earlier this year, Sports Illustrated published a list of the 50 highest-paid American athletes that included five 2009 NFL rookies. Every other athlete on the list was a proven veteran. In 2009, NFL clubs contracted $1.2 billion to 256 drafted rookies with $585 million guaranteed before they had stepped on an NFL field.
Don't get me wrong: top draft choices will continue to be highly paid. All we're asking for is a return to common sense in paying our rookies. Other leagues have done this and we can too.
These improvements and more will lead to better football, plain and simple. A forward looking CBA that is fair to players and clubs will lead to a great future for the NFL and our fans.
My job is to represent the game - the fans, teams, players, coaches and business partners. Protecting the integrity of the game and ensuring it thrives is a responsibility I take very seriously.
This is about more than a labor agreement. It's about the future of the NFL. We have to improve and will be relentless in our quest. The commitment to our fans is to make the NFL experience even better in the years ahead. With a responsible CBA, we will fulfill that vision.
Happy New Year and enjoy the playoffs.
| - Roger Goodell |
Sunday, January 02, 2011
New Opportunities, Not New Resolutions
Sure I've done the New Year's Resolutions thing too and like most of us failed at keeping most of them. But now I look at things differently as I ponder the new year in front of me.
It's about seizing opportunities. Opportunities to pay off some debts, spend more time with friends and family, serve and give more, build a business, save more money, lose some weight, get closer to God or enjoy the journey more.
I am excited about 2011 like no year in a very long time. In front of Julie and me are opportunities like those above. We intend to pay off more debts like we did in 2010, travel a little more, give and serve even more and of course we both have full intentions to get healthier...yes even me! I even plan to finally publish my first real book sometime this spring. Just in the process of editing it now...
We start the year off with a bang later this month by taking the family to Disney World (that was our big Christmas present) and then we get focused on all of those "opportunities" mentioned rounding it off with a fun trip to Galveston once again this summer.
Mostly, I am excited about what God is doing with my comany, Equal Health, and watching Him rebuild it has been amazing. We are well on the way to rebuilding our residual income base thanks to some new health plans we now offer. It's going to be an exciting year. The more we can earn the more we can give!
Take some time to consider the opportunites in front of you during the next 365 days. God will put them in front of you, that I can promise!
It's about seizing opportunities. Opportunities to pay off some debts, spend more time with friends and family, serve and give more, build a business, save more money, lose some weight, get closer to God or enjoy the journey more.
I am excited about 2011 like no year in a very long time. In front of Julie and me are opportunities like those above. We intend to pay off more debts like we did in 2010, travel a little more, give and serve even more and of course we both have full intentions to get healthier...yes even me! I even plan to finally publish my first real book sometime this spring. Just in the process of editing it now...
We start the year off with a bang later this month by taking the family to Disney World (that was our big Christmas present) and then we get focused on all of those "opportunities" mentioned rounding it off with a fun trip to Galveston once again this summer.
Mostly, I am excited about what God is doing with my comany, Equal Health, and watching Him rebuild it has been amazing. We are well on the way to rebuilding our residual income base thanks to some new health plans we now offer. It's going to be an exciting year. The more we can earn the more we can give!
Take some time to consider the opportunites in front of you during the next 365 days. God will put them in front of you, that I can promise!
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