Thoughts From Above

'Oh What A Beautiful Morning'

2010-05-21T07:05:00.006-05:00

The song comes back from some childhood memory.

"Oh, what a beautiful mornin',
Oh, what a beautiful day,
I got a beautiful feelin'
Ev'rything's goin' my way.
Oh, what a beautiful day. "
Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II

The spring has sprung. Everything is fresh green with the warm morning sun spilling across the back yard and gardens. The birds are singing and chirping calling everyone to take notice of this gorgeous day the Lord has made.

Thank you God.
Blessings

Adulthood: Decisions and Onset

2010-03-26T14:50:00.007-05:00

An interesting and thought provoking quote. In a student conference the professor gives this advice for the student to consider.

"Professor Stephen Malley: The decisions you make now, bud, can't be changed but with years and years of hard work to redo it... And in those years you become something different. Everybody does as the time passes. You get married, you get into debt... But you're never gonna be the same person you are right now. And promise and potential... It's very fickle, and it just might not be there anymore.

Student Todd Hayes: Are you assuming I already made a decision? And also that I'll live to regret it?

Professor Stephen Malley: All I'm saying is that you're an adult now... And the tough thing about adulthood is that it starts before you even know it starts, when you're already a dozen decisions into it. But what you need to know, Todd, no Lifeguard is watching anymore. You're on your own. You're your own man, and the decisions you make now are yours and yours alone from here until the end. "

From the movie "Lions for Lambs" (2007).

Think about it and post your comments.

Blessings....

A License to Live

2010-03-09T08:05:00.003-06:00

While attending Bible class last Sunday in Fairfax, VA, the teacher's lesson had a point concerning the relationship of the Old Testament and how does legalism and faith apply to today's Christian. This got me to thinking.

When I had been flying for a few years, I needed to add another qualification to my license. To add this qualification I had to do some specified practice and then take a test to get my new license. The examiner who gave me the test made an interesting statement. He said, "A license just gives you permission to go learn more, legally."

This is true in so many areas. Take a driver's license for example. You take driver's ed or something equivalent. You are trained to some modicom of proficiency to drive a car. You may have had to even pass a driving test. Now you automatically have the ability to drive like Mario Andretti. NO. Now you can go learn as you drive. You learn cars really do hydroplane, not all yellow lights are created equal. As you learn you become more capable of controlling the car in difficult circumstances as your experience increases.

A Christian is a lot like this. We learn the basic rules. We find faith. We chose to change our ways and be baptized. We are like the driver with a new license, out learning how to live this new life. We make mistakes, but usually our mistakes are more about knowledge and ability in the beginning. As our experience and knowledge grows we find ourselves able to get further down the road and help others to see the advantages in getting their 'license' to live this new life.

On a side note. Some drivers learn how to drive without ever getting a license. They become fantastic drivers. They follow all the laws except one. When do they become legal to drive?

Blessings....

Jenny Bizaillion

2010-02-17T20:04:00.005-06:00

Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Jenny Bizaillion passed from this world at 3:38pm. (Feb 22, 2010)

She was the most beautiful, wonderful friend, perfect mom, devoted sister, loyal daughter, and best wife a person could ever have.

We will see her again.

Copied from her 'Carepages' post at https://www.carepages.com/carepages/JennyBizaillionUpdates/updates.

A lot of people, groups and organizations were brought together in unified prayer for Jenny. She will be missed.

I understand when Jenny became seriously ill her father said , "No matter how this ends, God will be glorified."

We should live our life daily so we can say, God be glorified.

Blessings....

Opportunity is Knocking

2010-01-28T08:47:00.014-06:00

Will you open the door?

Yes, but which one?

'Opportunity is knocking' something we hear over and over. We hear it so much because there are opportunities for change surrounding us with each breath we take. Opportunities to just keep on like yesterday or opportunities to choose extremely different than we did before.

Because of our moral compass we choose one thing over another without even thinking about it. There is very little temptation to do or choose the wrong thing when we pattern our lives to not include the wrong thing. We set ourselves up for success by continually picking the opportunity that is in line with where we want to go with our lives.

Remember the WWJD phase the country went through a few years ago. For people who rarely thought about how their lives lined up with Jesus and his teachings this was an eye opening experience for them.

Setting your moral compass is the first step in lessening the stress over the choices you have to make each day. If you choose to follow the pattern of Christ and his teachings many of each day's dilemmas would be eliminated. Choices become almost automatic. Deliberating hours over the options quickly become no-brainer decisions.

It is interesting to me when I create a pattern for my life, part of a moral compass, how so many things have no interest or draw to me. An easy example is; how I have never been attracted to the lure of drugs and dope. That choice was made a very long time ago and those opportunities have never been of interest to me. On the other hand as I become educated about eating habits,. chicken fried steak everyday for dinner probably would not be the best choice for me. I am learning to change the pattern of my eating habits to match my activity levels and metabolism.

Watch your opportunities and choices for a month, see where you have patterns set up and where you may need to change a pattern or two.

blessings....

Ten Years

2009-12-31T20:21:00.003-06:00

Another year is come and gone. Come to think of it another decade come and gone.

A few things that we have gone through in the last ten years.

Living in Brussels.

Moving back to the states.

Buying a new house.

Unemployed.

Starting and selling a small business.

Oldest son graduating h.s.

Employed again.

Youngest son graduating h.s.

Oldest son getting married.

Gained wonderful daughter-in-law.

Oldest son had a daughter, became a dad - made me a granddad.

Many, many, many, many blessings on my family.

Blessings....

Travel Thursday

2009-10-29T08:17:00.004-05:00

The "Where Am I" title has morphed into 'Travel Thursday'. The concept remains the same, a photo will be posted depicting a location. Your duty is to discern and guess the location.

Now for today's photo:
This will be relatively easy for most.

Blessings,

Where Am I???

2009-10-24T11:01:00.004-05:00

Well, here is another place. These photos do not necessarily depict a national landmark.

Hint #1
This flower is often found in this region. (Although, native to South Africa.)

Hint #2
A relatively famous hotel.

And finally hint #3
A skyline.

Blessings, and enjoy yourself.

Where Am I?

2009-09-30T17:07:00.011-05:00

Now for a little game. I will put up a photo of a place and see if you can guess where it is.

Photo from my hotel room.

Can you guess the town?

Becoming an Authority

2009-09-15T12:42:00.004-05:00

It takes a lot of work to become an authority,

unless you are a teenager.

blessings,

Tim

The Spool Down

2009-08-29T08:13:00.008-05:00

Life in our household was a little different than normal the last few weeks. We were preparing for a wedding.
My oldest and his bride got married last Saturday, August 22nd.
They thought it would be nice to have it in our backyard.
At sunset.
With 'tiki' torches.
And twinkle lights.
In August!

So, that's what we did.

Prayers for good weather started immediately. Can you say water, water, water the grass and flower beds? Did I mention watering? Some trimming and neatening. Lots of mowing. The Creative Soul & the bride brainstormed ways to decorate. They did a tremendous job and everything looked fantastic! (Photos found here: Creative Soul )

But, I saved the best for last. They asked me to officiate. Humbling, exciting, proud, anxious, WOW!

All went well. Now we are finishing up recuperate mode. Took most all week to get revitalized. It was well worth it.

Quiet In The Night

2009-07-16T06:57:00.004-05:00

Isn't it interesting how 'quiet' it gets at night.
Especially when you can't sleep.
Restlessness removes cobwebs and senses sound an alert.
Background noises come to the foreground.
Sounds of life gain volume until blaring.

Houses breathe.

Floors creak.

Refrigerators roar.

Faucets drip.

Breezes rattle screens.

Plants scratching outside.

A cricket's crescendo.

And we usually sleep through all the din.

Blessings,

To Bed or Not to Bed

2009-06-13T19:39:00.015-05:00

The grass is growing. Time to start mowing twice a week. My better half thinks we need to convert to flower beds - no grass - just flower beds. I am not too sure about that. I am not convinced flower beds are less work than grass, but that's her opinion.

Currently I think we are up to ten flower beds. Let's name them.

The front bed
Front corner bed
Front door bed
Front sidewalk bed
Well bed
West wing by fence
The bed by the air conditioner.
Rose bed
Bed by our bedroom windows
Pond bed
Nathan's bed
Pool bed
The Garden of Eatin' (Nathan named it)
Ami's Garden
The East fence row
The West fence row
The South shrub row
The East side of the house bed

It looks like 18 beds instead of ten. Some are not very big but I am pretty sure she is scheming ways to expand them and probably add more.

Looks like I am fighting a losing battle.

Blessings,

Went to a funeral

2009-06-10T05:27:00.007-05:00

Yesterday I went to the funeral of a friend's brother. The overall feeling was uplifting. One of the phrases that caught my ear was,

"Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."

This intrigued me enough to google it. The line is from this poem by C. T. Studd, a missionary of late 1800's early 1900's. Hope you enjoy.

Only One Life

Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgment seat;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, “twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say, “Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say ‘twas worth it all”;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

C. T. Studd

Blessings...

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T08:15:00.016-05:00

To all the ladies who have just experienced the soft sweet smell of a newborn,

to those who have been tested by the terrible twos,

to those who have answered the millionth question of the inquisitive preteen,

to those who have endured the trials of the turbulent teen,

to those who have had the child become a friend,

to those who have been blessed to the harvest of grand & great grand children...

May God bless you on this special day created to call attention to you,

and may He bless you every day

for you have earned and deserve the honorable title of

Mother.

blessings...

A Great Day For a Birthday!

2009-04-04T09:19:00.003-05:00

Birthdays are good days. Time for a little reflection and time for looking forward.

Reflection on how very very very blessed my life is. I grew up in a family that loved and loves me. God placed a wonderful woman by my side to share life with...good, bad and terrific. I have two handsome sons who have a desire to have God in their lives. My needs are more than taken care of. Many friends whom I am honored to have.

Looking forward to the gifts of life yet to come. I know that good and not so good are ahead...BUT there is more and more of good even in the not so good.

Blessings.

Spring Refreshment

2009-03-18T12:18:00.013-05:00

Refreshing.
Spring showers, spring flowers, SPRING TRAINING.
Had a great time with Deb experiencing a few days of Texas Rangers spring training in Surprise, AZ.

It was fun learning the etiquette of spring training. There are obvious rules - Don't Cross the Red Lines - Stay OFF the fields. A more subtle one, they are happy to take time to sign your memorabilia, just be polite and wait your turn as they walk from one practice area to another. Sometimes they don't have much time, but they stay as long as they can and are even apologetic if they have to go to 'work'. The minor leaguers enjoy a little attention, also.

One of the things that struck me as quietly poignant, after batting practice EVERYONE helps pick up the baseballs!

They don't have some flunky out there running around gathering them up for next batting practice - they could - but, they don't. The pitchers had a fielding practice and afterwards they ALL helped gather up bats and balls.

For more photographs and great perspective check out Deb's thoughts at 'Creative Soul'. She is an enlightening communicator. You will enjoy her perspective.

blessings,
Tim

Headwinds

2009-03-03T15:51:00.004-06:00

An airplane is a little like a boat in a river. If the boat is going downstream the boat goes the same speed through the water, but with the current pushing from behind goes faster in reference to the shore. If the boat is going upstream, against the current, it goes slower in reference to the shore. An airplane going into the wind, or headwind is like a boat going against the current. The airplane with a headwind still flies at the same speed through the air, the headwind just slows the plane in reference to the ground.

In the last few trips we have encountered some hefty headwinds, some reaching over 1oo mph. In fact yesterday we saw a headwind of 173 mph for a segment of the flight. If you are familiar with small airplanes, you will know in most of them you would be backing up with that much headwind. If you encounter some very strong headwinds you did not plan for, you will need to land your airplane and get more fuel to reach your destination. There are a couple of things you can do to combat headwinds, but mainly you just have to put up with them or not go.

Living life can be a little like flying an airplane. Sometimes you have a headwind and you just can't seem to get anywhere. So you have a couple of options. You can go park you plane in the hanger, waiting for better conditions. Or you can get in your plane and soar into the skies doing the best you can. Both can be right answers.

Refreshed From Anothers Well

2009-02-17T16:23:00.009-06:00

Being on the road often has definite drawbacks. But, today I want to focus on one of the pluses. When I am away from home on Sundays, I usually get online to find a local congregation to worship with. The internet makes it so much easier than it used to be. Looking in the yellow pages and trying to figure out what addresses might be within an accessible range was challenging without knowing the local streets and suburbs.

Last Sunday I had the opportunity to worship with the Northland Church of Christ in Columbus, Ohio. Having flown the night before and finally settling into our hotel around 2:30 am, I had some difficulty hopping out of bed in just a few hours. After I had my morning visit with Deb, it was get ready and go find the church building.

I made it there a couple of minutes early. Greeted by several as I entered, a nice lady escorted me to an adult class. The class was informative and interesting. After class I visited with the teacher, an elder off and on for about 35 years. We made our way to the auditorium just as the singing was beginning. The singing was robust and hearty. Voices joining together praising God. Ron Adams presented an excellent lesson on forgiveness. We finished with a couple more songs.

Well, I went away refreshed from my time of praise and worship with the Northland Church Christians. So if you are in the Columbus, Ohio area stop by and pay them a visit. You will be blessed by your time there.

Blessings

Sweets For My Sweetheart

2009-02-12T13:06:00.009-06:00

Yesterday I started celebrating Valentines. My reason for getting a head start is my schedule will have me out of town on Saturday. Therefor yesterday I went for a little date lunch with my wife.

After lunch we stopped at Wallyworld to pick up some necessities and valentine cards for the family. We walked in through the garden section. (Do they have any other doors?) We looked at some potted tulip plants. I was thinking ahh she just might like some of those. We went on and got most of what we needed. I picked up a couple of lemons to make her a pie. Near the produce was the floral department. We glanced over the flowers and found a few bunches of tulips. She expressed an interest and she ended up with some tulips for the house.

Later that afternoon there were tulips in several vases through the house. And I proceded to make her favorite, lemon merigne pie. I was not a fan of this pie growing up, it just didn't interest me. But, after a few years of making it and having it around, I have developed a fondeness for it.

So Valentines has begun at our house.

Hope you find something special for your sweetheart. Something that warms the cockles of her heart. Enjoy this opportunity to express affection for each other.

Blessings,

Can You Say NO?

2009-02-08T19:48:00.003-06:00

For some, especially those who want to please, and hate to disappoint, one of the hardest words in the English language to utter is the simple little word, 'No'. Yes, you heard me correctly. It really is hard for some people to say no.

There are several reasons people don't say no.

They don't want to let any one down. They often end up saying yes to too many things and cannot complete all of the things they have agreed to. So they eventually let some people down.

They feel like by saying yes they are pleasing the person making the request. Again they will end up being bogged down by all the things that are offered to them. And, not getting the task done.

They want to be indespensable. If they are into everything then they have to be kept around.

They haven't learned to focus. They need to determine what is a high priority, agree to that, complete it and move on.

Learn to say 'No'. It will free you up to do the things that are really important. And once you narrow what you have to do you will have time to do those things well.

OK, practice it now, NO, no, No, No thank you, not this time, no, no, no. Good job.

Blessings,

Slam Clicker, Lobbyist, or Explorer?

2009-01-31T04:54:00.006-06:00

Having stayed in a few hotels through work I have come to see three different kinds of hotel guests. Which group do you gravitate toward?

The 'Slam Clicker'
These are the folks who check into the hotel. They get their key and go to their room. The last sound you hear is the closing of the door and the clicking of the lock, 'Slam Click'. Almost always order room service or delivery food. Never see them again until checkout.
The 'Lobbyist'
These are some who can't stand to be in their room. They use the room for showering and sleeping. All other times they are in the lobby or common room reading a book or newspaper usually with a television in sight. In the summer you may even find them by the pool. They will go out to eat with the group and maybe a mall. But, not going to wander too far from 'home'.
The 'Explorer'
These are the adventurous souls that see the inside of the hotel only when they have to. They are always asking locals "What there is to do here?". They will often do prep on the internet and have a game plan for attacking this 'new frontier'. If there is some kayaking, hill climbing, art, museum, historical site, interesting downtown area, countryside to be seen, they are out exploring. They welcome the company of others but are willing to set out on their own if abandoned by the less hardy.

Me? I am usually a 1 or 3, never been a 2.

Blessings

What Makes For Happiness?

2009-01-19T22:16:00.003-06:00

Boy, if I could only have a new car, with new tires, that doesn’t break down. I would be delighted. If I just had that new game system, with those wireless controllers, and that new game that everyone is raving about. I would be exhilarated. If I just had one of those computerized sewing machines that can sew through anything, and makes all those fancy stitches and and creates intricate designs. I would be ecstatic.

I would be so happy!?!?

Would you? Would I?

These things could be pleasing. It is nice to have a reliable vehicle you can depend on. It can be fun to play video games for hours. It could be pleasurable to sew some very cute things.

What happens when the newness wears off. When new has become old and used. Where is the happiness?

True happiness is a chosen state of mind. Contentment is learned.

Happiness can be a fleeting emotion. Based on the things around us, it can come and go on a wisp of wind. But true happiness and joy is a deeper part of your character. It comes from your belief in God and what he has done for you. Joy is what sustains you through winter funks and hard times.

Blessings

Things are Tools

2009-01-11T20:36:00.013-06:00

Things we acquire and accumulate in life are just tools. Whether we crave some thing and go get it, or receive it as a gift, it is still a tool. Most things have a designed use. They can be used for their designed task or used imaginatively with mixed results. The same wrench that tightens the bolt, can break the bolt. The same car that takes you to work, to church, can deliver you somewhere you don’t belong. The same hammer that drives the nails to build the house can be used to break and destroy the house. Money can provide shelter and nourishment or it can provide fleeting pleasures, drugs and sins. The television that entertains can detain.

The tool has no mind of its own, it does not demand to be used. It only does what it is commanded. The difference in what is accomplished is determined by the user.

Blessings

Are You A Pack Rat, Also?

2009-01-07T10:03:00.006-06:00

Yes, I have been accused of gathering and keeping things way beyond their useful life. I have a shirt from when I was in high school, (yes, it still fits). The list could go on and on. But today, with my 'Creative Soul' mate, I begin cleaning out a file cabinet. This is a four drawer deep file cabinet and it is FULL. Glancing through one drawer the other day I saw a health insurance file from two jobs ago.

Don't get me wrong, I like organization...just not getting rid of things that might be useful someday. The demon awaits, wish us luck that we survive the ordeal. Especially me as I rip through my craving to keep everything, well most everything.

Blessings

Celsius and Fahrenheit Trivia & Reality

2009-01-03T07:47:00.010-06:00

Many, many moons ago, in a little town called Happy, I learned about Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales. We were taught how to convert from one to another, ( you know the divide by 9 multiply by 5 add 32, or was that subtract 32 then multiply......). It was a long time ago.

There is one thing that is simple to remember about the two scales. They both are equal at 40 degrees below zero. Brrrrr that sounds cold.

Well, if you were with me right now in Edmonton, Alberta, you could experience it with me. Yes, it is currently -40 degrees on both scales. And it is COLD!!!!

This is the window frame in my hotel room. The curtain is frozen to the frame. There are double curtains so my room is warm, but, it is definitely cold outside.

As we used to read on postcards sent from California or Florida..."Wish you were here!". Come on up we will chip some ice.
Blessings

One More Year

2008-12-30T20:23:00.002-06:00

Newsflash!!! Another year comes to an end. Even if you live in a cave, the passing of days can't be missed. With a new year a lot of folks are taking time to reflect on the past year and changes to make in this new year. Reflection is always good. I am glad people use this time of year to evaluate and look for ways to improve themselves in the coming year.

Enjoy the new year and any you make in your life.
Blessings

A Little Different Theme

2008-12-27T16:43:00.015-06:00

This is a variation of a list I found on D eb's Creative Soul blog. The list is not all inclusive but has some interesting twists to it. My variation to her's was to only list things I have done. (I had to change a few to be applicable to me.)
It would be interesting to hear all of these you can mark off. If you answer on your own blog, put a link in the comments below so we can read and enjoy.

1. Brought someone to know Christ

2. Started your own blog

3. Played in a band

4. Been to Happy, Texas

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyland/world

8. Slept under the stars

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Driven a house boat
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm from 30,000 ft
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Never had food poisoning
17. Seen Central Park from the top of the Empire State Bldg.

18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a calf
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run/walk a 5K
28. Stood in the Acropolis and on Mars hill in Athens
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Ridden in an Ox cart
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen two oceans at once (Atlantic/Pacific)
36. Taught yourself a new language (Still a work in progress)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa
39. Gone Repelling off a cliff
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Drove in Rome !!!!
42. Skied the Alps
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited India
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Driven an ambulance
47. Had a professional portrait created
48. Hand cranked homemade ice cream
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been on TV
56. Visited the Taj Mahal
57. Started a business
58. Made a stop in Iceland
59. Taken a 'Norway in a Nutshell' tour
60. Served a meal to missionaries
61. Bought Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Sent flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Swam with Sting Rays at Sting Ray City
66. Visited D-Day beaches and Cemeteries
67. Bounced a check
68. Drove on the wrong (English) side of the road
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Built a piece of furniture
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured Cape Canaveral (Kennedy)
75. Been laid off from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London and Copenhagen
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Written a manual
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in the Roman Forum
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the Smithsonian
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life, (Every time people fly with me?)
90. Driven on the Le Mons race track.
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a Cheese of the Month club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Flown a plane
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Dipped your toes in the Great Salt Lake
97. Made a steer from a bull
98. Kissed the Blarney Stone
99. Been stung by a bee.

There are many more things to do and places to go.
Blessings

Winter Is Here!!!

2008-12-22T17:22:00.006-06:00

Well if you are North of the equator this is officially winter season. Brrrr.

Having had the opportunity to be in Alaska, Canada, and Finland during winter through the years makes me appreciate living in a warmer climate. And now that I am acclimated the cold is even colder. I would rather mow the yard around Thanksgiving and put up Christmas decorations in t-shirts than wear parkas for months. I don't mind visiting the frozen tundra of Amarillo, Texas and parts north, but getting back down south is where I would rather be.

It is good some people want to live North of my latitude. I appreciated their choice. It is always interesting to see these 'natives of the north' out in shorts and t-shirts when the temperatures warm up just a few degrees no matter how cold it is.

Blessings, especially to anyone in the cold.

Merry? Christmas

2008-12-16T10:18:00.003-06:00

Following some thoughts from the last blog, I want to bring to mind a few points to ponder.

Although these are the holidays and are supposed to be filled with cheer, life does not stop and let everyone take a break. Life keeps on going with births, deaths, sickness, loneliness. Change is stressful - even happy changes are loaded with stress. People have to deal with a sick child, a death in the family, or this is the first Christmas without Grandma, Dad, Mom... The tension of the once a year 'Will we be able to get along this time?' holiday visits. As you go about spreading your Christmas cheer, (and you should), be cognizant of how other people are doing. If you are aware of someone's 'life' share with them empathy and love. Encourage them and empower them, letting them know they are in your prayers.

May the 'Peace on earth' emanate from the peace Jesus offers and the 'Joy' you spread be the deep abiding joy based on being in Jesus.

Blessings with tidings of good cheer.

Blessings & Treasures

2008-12-03T09:47:00.006-06:00

I love the way Thanksgiving and Christmas line up on the calendar. As we come to the end of the year, first we take stock of everything and give thanks. Realizing how truly blessed we are even in 'hard times'. Some years are easier, some harder. Regardless of your comfort level right now there are so many, many, many reasons to offer thanks and praise to God.

As we move from the humbling contemplation of how truly blessed we are, Christmas opens the door to intriguing opportunities. We look outside ourselves and find ways to see others and their needs. Our paradigm shifts from self to neighbor. We see physical needs and want to share our wealth to help them out.

Scott Raab, (http://ravenraab.blogspot.com), a missionary in Belgium and the Netherlands had a youth weekend where the youth put into practice their lessons on sharing. They spent time filling and decorating shoe boxes with gifts for those who don't usually receive them. After they were done filling the shoe boxes they spent some time reflecting on the weekend and thinking about what is really important to them. One of Scott's questions was. "Jesus says:Your heart will be where your treasure is. What are we really holding as our treasure?"
An inspiring thought, Scott.

This Christmas season, as we share physical gifts in the spirit of Christmas and brighten other peoples day, may we also share Jesus and brighten their life.

Blessings

The Ripple Effect

2008-11-17T08:22:00.000-06:00

On the farm we had stock tanks and ponds for the cattle to drink from. They varied from a metal tank a few feet across to a pond a few yards in width. One thing common to all ponds is on a calm day the surface would be smooth as glass. Being a young whipper snapper, it wouldn't take long for me to find a rock to throw. Breaking the serene mirror with a toss was always a treat. And almost as much fun as throwing the rock, was watching the ripples created on the water. First you had the rings emminating out from the center. Then as they reached the edge they would bounce back intercepting the original ripples. The reflected ripples were not as strong, but they were still created by one rock.

There are several thoughts to be drawn from this simple act of a young boy.

No matter where or who you are, by existing you are being a rock in the pond of life.
You are sending out ripples as you connect with this world.
Each choice you make determines what is in the ripple created.
You have no control of a ripple once it is in motion.
Often the ripple will return back to you reflected off someone, something it comes in contact with.

Blessings.

Folks, We Are Different!

2008-10-22T12:33:00.005-05:00

Here is a question for you. How many of you have had grocery store metal can pickled beets on a lettuce and tomato salad? Me neither, until lunch yesterday. (Different, added some twang.) I believe that is what you would call a cultural difference.

Cultural differences abound, especially in food. Let's look at Chicken Fried steak - 1. Dipped in flour or corn meal? 2. White gravy or brown gravy? And some are asking 'Chicken Fried'? steak with a raised eyebrow.

Folks, we are different! Often, with a capital 'D'.

It is good to be different. Although, we need to be careful as we find diffences in others. Because we cannot see all the 'culture' created variations, we shouldn't use other men as measuring sticks to determine our level of growth. We need to look at the mirror of God's word to evaluate our status. It is not the choices others make, BUT the choices we make.

Be different. Make informed choices.

Blessings,

In Case You Haven't Heard

2008-10-11T20:44:00.004-05:00

Unless you have been in a cave or marooned on an island you have probably heard a word or two of economic gloom and doom. I am not an economist! I don't know what is in store for 'Wall Street' or 'Main Street'.

But, as you hear all these things, keep them in perspective. What is truly important?

Your relationship to God and man.

Whether times are easy or hard remember to love God and love your neighbor as yourself.

Blessings

Are we having FUN yet?

2008-09-16T11:45:00.003-05:00

Today a 35 year old friend said this last summer was not exactly easy. It was an awakening for her.

Her grandmother was no longer the spry and active person she had known for so many years. There really is an end to life.

Also, she saw a ‘reality’ show on TV where a drinking-partying young man came to the realization, “This (lifesyle) isn’t fun anymore and if it is not fun what is the point?”

She had never thought of ‘having fun’ as being the criteria for living life. She had gone to school, held jobs and worked for several years. Even done a little partying of her own. We talked for awhile and found that the word ‘fun’ can have very different connotations. Fun changes from toddler to teen, teen to twenties and so forth. Satisfying or fulfilling may be ‘fun’ as we become more mature. And fun is more of a by-product of accomplishment. Some people get stuck in a certain ‘age’ of fun even though they grow older.

The distillation of what is truly important was starting to dawn on her. Getting her to include God is the next step.

Blessings as you find 'FUN' in your life.

Refresh Time

2008-08-20T11:06:00.005-05:00

As a pilot, every six months you go to the simulator for a period of training and testing. Evaluating how we normally complete tasks and refreshing the plan of action for different situations and emergencies that could arise.

As Christians occasionally we need to get out of our daily routine, evaluate how we have been handling daily routine and refresh ourselves on how we should react in an unusual or extreme situation. How have you been reacting when you get cut off in traffic? How are you going to react when the car gets wrecked? What do you say and do when you get dealt a really hard blow? How are you planning to handle that job promotion?

You come up with the questions and then fill in the answers.

Prep time will pay off big dividends! You can make sure you are handling everyday life in an appropriate manner. You won't have to be making big decisions on the fly in the heat of the battle. You will already have a plan in mind and only have to make small corrections to come up with a successful outcome to any situation.

Blessings...

Love One Another

2008-08-12T19:50:00.002-05:00

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
1 John 4:7

This verse came up on my Facebook page today. An inspiring verse! I put it here to remind us to love.

Blessings

Resting on my Laurels

2008-07-25T13:56:00.007-05:00

'rest on (one's) laurels'
To rely on one's past achievements instead of working to maintain or advance one's status or reputation.

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/laurels

Boy it is easy to do. 'I've worked hard to get here...I deserve a rest.' 'Look how much I have improved.' It is great to take a break and smell the roses, listen to nature, and walk in the garden with God. You can be refreshed in being quiet. aaahhhhhhhhh

The problem begins when the rest becomes a stay. We take our eyes off the long term goal and settle into atrophy. BTDT (Been there done that.) Usually the more I in my statements the longer the stay. Looking outside of myself the perspective changes, God and others become the focus again.

I want to encourage you to seek ways to improve yourself, especially your relationship with the Almighty. Spend time in his word, in prayer, meditaion, song, and service. As God and others become our focus we get off 'high center' and begin to move forward.

Blessings

Heartbeats

2008-05-10T14:17:00.006-05:00

Once upon a time, well almost that long ago. Some of us pilot people were discussing exercising, you know running vs walking and all the benefits. We didn't come up with any definitive answers but I was exposed to some different opinions.

One gentleman explained his viewpoint on exercising like this: "I figure my heart has so many beats in it then I die. So anytime I speed up my heart rate I am wasting beats I will need later." Interesting logic, don't you think.

His opinion exposes a powerful point. We have a limited number of heartbeats.

That begs the question what am I doing with my heartbeats.

I admit I have squandered way to many. And in my 'perfection' I will waste many more.

BUT, I am being more deliberate about how I deplete my heartbeats. And with God's help some will glorify Him and benefit others.

Blessings as you manage your heartbeats.

Infinity - Eternity

2008-04-28T08:00:00.004-05:00

2+2=4
Never changing always the same. Forever and ever.
Math can be so exact.
But, not always! Explain infinity. No stopping, going forever and ever.
Not so exact.
Our finite minds have a lot of trouble grasping the concept of infinity.

God knows about infinity.
He knows about eternity.
That is why God gave up Jesus.
He desires us to spend eternity with him.

But, He left the choice up to us.
We get to choose who we spend eternity with, God or Satan.

Who are you choosing?

Blessings!

Getting 'Let Off the Hook'

2008-03-17T07:21:00.005-05:00

Y'all remember the story in Matthew 28 about the fellow who owed lots and lots and lots of money. How he and his wife and children and all he had were to be sold to repay the debt.

Ouch! Selling all you have.
Ouch!! Having to be sold into slavery.
Ouch!!! Being responsible for your wife and children on the auction block of slavery to pay your debts.
Talk about ultimate bankruptcy.

He begged for patience so he could repay the debt. (Everyone knew he could not ever come close to paying that amount.)

Wow!!! The debt was cancelled and he was let go.

He was 'let off the hook'.

Debt cancelled.
No guilt.
No shame.
Clean slate.
What a great day.
What a great feeling.

Chew on that for a minute.

Blessings,

Eight things about me.

2008-03-11T16:29:00.003-05:00

I am old enough to know better.

I learned to like coconut meringue pie and steak without sauce from my dad and lemon meringue pie and Italian cooking from Deb.

I have never known, not enjoying flying.

I still enjoy roller coasters.

There is something soothing about reading the Bible.

Working together with Deb has always been one of my greatest pleasures.

One of the greatest smiles you will ever see is when you truly compliment and encourage someone.

Being on God’s time is often hard and uncomfortable … until I let go.

Blessings.

Wah, Wah, Wah

2008-02-15T12:01:00.004-06:00

One of the jokes management tells about pilots is "if their lips are moving they're whining". It is all to easy to get caught up in the mob mentality and one upsmanship when someone starts complaining.

No organization is perfect! The problem with organizations is they are made up of people. Last time I checked there has only been one perfect person here on earth. So there are lots of things to complain, whine and moan about. It is so easy to get caught up in a gripefest whirlwind with others.

The hard part is stopping that snowball before it becomes an avalanche. You can be the one to break the cycle. Just bring up a positive point. Not argumentative but one of those 'have you considered this' type of questions. Or, 'they really made an effort to handle that situation well'.

We can undermine our relationships in the same manner. Do we think of the positive things our friends do? Or, do we constantly dwell on the negative unpleasant actions.

I dare you to be the one to stand up! Break the cycle!

Make a positive point about your oraganization.

Make a positive point about your children.

Make a positive point about your spouse.

Make a positive point about God.

Blessings,

Extremes

2008-02-04T09:09:00.000-06:00

Just got back from a week in Canada. Vancouver was ok, snow and rain highs in the 30's f. Edmonton was a little, no, a lot different. It was clear but the high in Edmonton was a -13 f with a low of -29 f. Yes that was 29 degrees below zero. As one of the crew said you don't live in that kind of weather you survive it. Calgary was a little warmer, when we left it was -5 degrees. The temperature in Dallas upon arrival was 75 degrees. So we gained 80 degrees in about three hours. Glad to be back in the warm!

Cold extremes are hard on equipment. Any drip you have in warm weather becomes a leak when the cold contracts everything. Batteries get real weak and oil very thick. You have to make preparations to survive the cold weather.

Life is a lot like that. Preparations need to be made so you can survive the extremes. Extremes are the parts of life that happen to other people. Cancer, job loss, death. The things that test your relationship to God.

Preperations:

1. Spend time in His word, listening.

2. Spend time in prayer, sharing your heart.

3. Spend time with a 'strong believer', sharing and growing your faith.

Books are written on each of these tasks. So they may be simple but they can be so rich and rewarding as you delve deeper into them.

Blessings.

It's Branding Time

2008-01-18T09:23:00.000-06:00

How many 'irons' do you have in the fire?

The number can be staggering. But, what is really important is which iron your getting out of the fire. Hmmmm. The branding iron was put into the fire to heat it, to get it ready for use. If the iron was not hot enough it did not work. You needed to grab the hottest iron to get the job done right.

You need to to know which iron is ready, so you can complete the task satisfactorily. Take care to tend the fire and organize your irons, so you have the right iron hot and ready.

Blessings

When the dream meets reality

2007-12-30T22:05:00.000-06:00

Stephen Bailey, (Associate minister at Lake Cities) opened the door to some interesting thoughts Sunday. He talked about when our childhood dreams come face to face with reality.

How do we react as the dawn breaks exposing how the dream we had since childhood is not going to come to fruition. We can become despondent and depressed. Making life miserable for ourselves an all those around us.

Or.

We can realize that the creator of the world has a plan. How we fit into His plan can be rather remarkable. Being ready to be used by God takes preparaton. Spend time in the Word and in prayer.

Have an excellent New Year!
Blessings

Old Dog - New Tricks

2007-12-19T10:20:00.000-06:00

Many of you know, I have been training the last half of this year on a new aircraft, a Boeing 757. After several years on the 727, this old dog is learning some new tricks. Going from a three member crew to a two man operation requires the use of some reformatting of how things get done. More automation, allowing us to spend less time with systems and more time on flying.

In addition, I am a first officer again. But, I am flying with a great captain who was my first officer on the 727 a couple of years ago, (It pays to be nice to people under you...never know when they might become your boss).

God continues to bless me in so many ways, to Him be Glory and Honor!
Look for a way God has blessed you today.
Blessings!

Ready for today?

2007-12-03T09:37:00.000-06:00

As you can tell from my photo I am a pilot. Have been for about 30 years.

One truth in flying is no two flights are the same.

This can be both good and bad. Good because you have to be prepared for the contingencies of the next flight. Bad because you never know what contingencies the next flight will bring.
The same can be said of life. So how do we prepare for the contingencies?
Here are three ways to prepare for each day.

1. Open your Bible. Yes, check out the owners manual. Just basic reading to gain knowledge and understanding of ourselves and God.

2. Open your hands. We often clench our fists – either to hang onto something ‘precious’ or to hit something. Neither are usually beneficial. And, when our hands are squeezed tight, there is little room for God to place anything in them.

3. Open your heart. Others benefit from our generous spirit. Not necessarily money. Give your talents, time, trust. Giving to others provides opportunity to have a positive factor in another’s life.

More to come…

Blessings

Thanks

2007-11-26T22:06:00.000-06:00

Who did you remember in your 'Thanks' giving?

Yes, it is important to give thanks for the food and stuff we have. And, it is imperative we give thanks for the people in our lives. Moms, dads, sisters, brothers.....and our mentors. People who have given of themselves so we might benefit. Letting them know how they affected our lives is gratifying for them and a reminder for us, we all need help and to help.

Of course the original giver should be the recipient of thank you upon thank you. God gave the breath of life to start it all,
and the gift of his sacrificed Son for eternal life to end it all.

Give Thanks!

Confidence

2007-11-06T14:52:00.000-06:00

Where does it come from? How do we develop it?

We all second guess ourselves. When second-guessing begins, the mind wraps up in itself - rather than solving life’s conundrums. Getting yourself out of the picture is key. Narrow the view to tasks at hand and priortize them into controllable steps, creating a ‘can do’ atmosphere.

Doing well in a recent predicament can open the door for your confidence. Sometimes a mentor may lay the ground work for a healthy dose of it. Or, a simple comment from a collegue can provide the stepping stone. Knowing that God is in control and is able to use you and your efforts to bless others should move your confidence level up a notch.

Understanding you are capable, able to meet and conquer challenges, allows you to know you can handle situations as they arise, and gets rid of the panic riddled ‘what am I going to do now?’ feeling.

Young, old, or inbetween, having confidence allows us to excel. Even with confidence we may suprise ourselves when we go beyond our own expectations.

Blessings of Confidence

Togetherness

2007-10-29T07:48:00.000-05:00

Do you want to get close to someone?

Spend some time together in the dirt. Two people making a hole in the ground. Planting seeds and plants that bring the promise of beauty and shelter. Even the dreaded 'weeding' can be a time of quiet togetherness.

When you are in the dirt, change the subject from the weather or work. Talk about something interesting such as 'How many days was Noah in the ark?', or 'Why did Jesus put the ear back on the servant of the high priest?', or 'Why did Herod get eaten by worms and die?

Get the conversation centered on God and be surprised by how well you get to know your fellow human being beside you.

Blessings

Montreal - Warm & Peaceful

2007-10-22T15:06:00.000-05:00

Today Montreal is basking in an unusually toasty fall day. The date is Oct 22 and it is 77 degrees, soft warm sunshine and barely a breath of breeze. Strolling by the river near city center was almost uncomfortably warm. Definitely not the chilling cold fall I was expecting. The foliage is arrayed in a full gamut of fall splendor.

French is preferred and English is definitely second language here. It is fun to attempt ordering food without asking or checking the English version. (I am pretty good at most menu items.)

Observing folks along Rene Levesque, the street by the hotel, most people fall into a French European stereotypical appearance. Smoking is very commonplace among all ages. Few acknowledged greetings on the sidewalk, and eye contact was only occasional. Maybe that is the european influence or, perhaps just surviving a big city.

This was my peaceful and restful day in Montreal... May yours be the same.

Blessings.

Hope

2007-10-11T20:34:00.000-05:00

That stirring from deep within, brightening the horizon, sometimes just a thin thread - yet there it is a ray of light shining through the darkness.

Watching the movie, 'Joan of Arc' brought to mind how hope can create a determination in people who have been downtrodden.

When you feel overloaded - downtrodden and need a ray of hope, remember we have been given a hope from God. Take hold of it and claim it as a gift to you. Live life with the light of hope illuminating your path as you work your way out from under your heavy load.

Blessings

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

2007-10-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

How many decisions did I make today? Well, I didn’t decide to breathe, that one was taken care of for me. What time to get up? Whether to get up when that time came? Which socks, shirt, the whole clothing thing? What to read this morning? How much quiet time today? Whew! I am not even out of bed yet.

What do we use to make our decisions in life? Peer pressure? Culture? Belief system? Concience? Gut feelings? Some decisions are no-brainers, not worth agonizing over. Others are those gut renching, lost sleep, deep-deep prayer kind of decisions.

Whatever decisions you have to face today, I pray you decide to be a Christian in all that you choose.

God bless you today!

The Original

2007-09-20T21:14:00.000-05:00

Life often moves in waves. The last few months we have been working our way up the wave. Guess what that means...the crest of the wave is just up there. The challenges are good for us, James informs us we build endurance from them. So, you see I am not feeling down. No, I am finding joy - not giddines, just good ole deep down joy.

God is in control.

Jesus is our salvation.

We know how the story ends.

Blessings to you.