tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64128828745392495942024-03-13T09:35:17.255-07:00The Other SideChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-67747670769387293082010-03-10T09:45:00.000-08:002010-03-10T09:45:17.360-08:00I'm Back...then I'm GoneToday is a catch up day at work for me. <br />
I also am making it a catch up day on the blog for me.<br />
<br />
It's been a while, and I know I need to catch up on my writing. The past two-three weeks has been crazy. Sarah got healthy again, but then we had to make an emergency trip to Memphis, work is very busy right now and I feel like I am taking on the hours of our good friend who is an accountant. Along with all of that I also have the "part time" job with P90X-it's about 10 hours a week. With all of that the blog has fallen lower and lower on the priority scale. And coming up I will be headed to Guatemala City, Guatemala for 9 days on a mission trip with our college leaders. I have no idea how or if I will be able to update you with everything that we will be doing there. I will try though.<br />
<br />
Measure Me Monday<br />
I missed two Mondays now. Last week we were driving to Memphis, TN to be with Sarah's family as they mourned the loss of Sarah's grandmother. It was a great trip, and it had an added bonus of also meeting our new nephew Michael Cameron, or Baby Mikey for short. <br />
For the workout it was great too. I used a guest pass at the Germantown Athletic Club. Nice facility with great work out equipment. My diet was off-it is real hard for me when I travel-but kept up the exercise. So, I did do the Measure Me Monday routine this past Monday and I had zero weight change but lost an inch and a half. Nothing spectacular, but considering the week as a whole it is not surprising. I have a new found motivation and will install it after my trip next week. Looking forward to continuing the weight loss and lifestyle changes that have come from this P90X revolution. <br />
<br />
Bro Time<br />
My brother came into town this weekend while Sarah went down to be with her friends for a bridal shower weekend extravaganza. I was really excited for Sarah, who hardly ever gets to see her friends or take time for herself. She had a such a great time with some of her favorite people on the planet. <br />
I loved having my brother in town. It was fun for him to hang with the kids, and the kids loved having their Uncle Blake in town. I did feel like an old man who is a fuddy duddy. At night we just hung out at the house, but that comes with the territory I guess. Hopefully I did not bore him too much and he will come back to see us soon.<br />
<br />
Good to catch you up a bit and hopefully I will get this back into gear.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-26524760444982031582010-02-24T13:50:00.000-08:002010-02-24T13:50:07.930-08:00Ben RectorHey All,<br />
<br />
So today is a quick review of a new album I purchased recently.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Into the Morning</b></i> by <a href="http://www.benrectormusic.com/blog/">Ben Rector</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8G7Lsd-5G8HBY1i39MCeiJuaay_vtrkTfg3Y7zVye8K-s-e03YULuHH_uv3s7OdvBiZIi13B7z9lxE0skDNMEjlkNE4bHyF5h6h-jlqEbEclVYoK6c2EjIbrq5RJ2n9za47DcdGrDsvVj/s1600-h/brm-itm-sp_03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8G7Lsd-5G8HBY1i39MCeiJuaay_vtrkTfg3Y7zVye8K-s-e03YULuHH_uv3s7OdvBiZIi13B7z9lxE0skDNMEjlkNE4bHyF5h6h-jlqEbEclVYoK6c2EjIbrq5RJ2n9za47DcdGrDsvVj/s320/brm-itm-sp_03.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I just wanted you to all know that I really enjoy this guy's music. He leans towards a more poppy feel, and of course if I am honest that's the way I swing too. Check it out on iTunes.</div>Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-72387881945333041642010-02-22T21:39:00.000-08:002010-02-22T21:39:25.172-08:00Measure Me Monday (M3)Well, I am back. Back to Blogging and back at living life with my, now, healthy wife!<br />
<br />
In good Monday fashion I will update you on how I am measuring!<br />
<br />
It's Measure Me Monday:<br />
Inches lost this past week-2 inches<br />
Total Inches Lost- 33 inches<br />
<br />
Weight Lost this past week-5 lbs<br />
Total weight Loss-29 lbs (remember I gained 2 lbs last week, so a net of 3 lbs lost on the total)<br />
<br />
I will say it was more encouraging to see a weight loss instead of weight gain. I will admit that I do not know where it came from though. I feel this past week was up and down when it came to food. But either way the results stand for themself.<br />
<br />
God Bless and if you are thinking you want to start loosing weight-I would encourage you to take the dive and focus on living a healthier lifestyle.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-32624663179091488952010-02-18T20:46:00.000-08:002010-02-18T20:46:00.168-08:00She Back Everyone! She is Back!So tonight's post will be sweet, like my wife. She is back from hell. She just said, "I think I am back." She goes back tomorrow for more blood work, but because she is feeling better we think her levels will be back to normal. If not, that's a different story. I think I will watch a bit of HULU.com and then hit the sack. Good Night and Thank You for Your Prayers.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-20110023392173086332010-02-17T21:02:00.001-08:002010-02-17T21:02:24.079-08:00Going to bed. Long day.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-60465820578366067512010-02-16T20:37:00.000-08:002010-02-16T20:37:04.263-08:00Blogging is toughHere I am sitting in front of the computer trying to dig deep into my being for a topic that is interesting. I am just wiped out and the thought of thinking is even tiring. <br />
I had a great conversation the other day with a friend who just had their first child. It was awesome to share how life is going, and where our faith is deeply intersecting with every aspect of our lives right now. As a father, husband, son, employee, and friend I am finding my faith in Jesus Christ to be the best thing going. I know that there are so many people who believe me to be naive and ignorant to the rest of our world's religions and to be hypocritical, but I am finding that as each day goes by where my weakness/tiredness/overwhelmingness grows and grows-Jesus gets bigger and bigger. I am seeing Matthew 5 make sense. It is not how I would have picked this journey or lesson to be revealed but it is how my God is leading me. <br />
Check out the Sermon on the Mount and be reminded at how much a counter-culture faith in Jesus Christ truly is in our current day. Sit and listen to the words and really open yourself up for examination. I know that it will give you something to think about at least, and maybe change your life.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-52325727794929380552010-02-15T21:46:00.000-08:002010-02-15T21:46:35.752-08:00Measure Me Monday (M3)So I have been away for a few days-please forgive. I am planning on jumping back head-first into this commitment. I will spend a few days next week pouring over a few ideas I have, but this week is a hold on tight and make it through kind of venture.<br />
It is Monday and I will update you on my workout/health pursuit, but want to shine a little light on why I have been away. I was in Dallas last week and though I could've just updated with short mobile blogs, I thought I would give you more insight later this week. When I returned home I found my wife to still be sick. She has really been battling this virus. We are praying that it is just a virus. The doctors have used scary words and have said there is potential for it to be really bad, but right now we pray it is just a virus. <br />
It has really put her out of commission and I have been able to help out a little bit around the house and with the kids, but what we all know is that this does not work without Sarah. She holds this family together and I have really not been myself because she can't be herself. <br />
We are both just tired. Plain and simple worn out. Work is tough right now and with the home not any better we are just asking for a breather, or in P90X terms-a water break. <br />
So please if you pray, pray for Sarah. Pray that God would heal her body and give her peace and joy for what she is dealing with today. Pray that I can love her well through this and that our kids can survive Daddy being in charge.<br />
For my update: Measure Me Monday.<br />
I have lost another 4 and a half inches (a total of 31inches!), but have gained 2 pounds (I have still lost 24 total lbs since Jan). I am a bit confused. I want nothing more than to write that I have lost more weight and inches, but it is not the case. The guys I workout with think that this second half-we are now past the mid-way point-will really make a difference. <br />
I did learn last week that finding time and a place to workout while traveling is really tough. I was reminded that I am so thankful for the two guys working out with me-I need them to push myself and to stay committed. <br />
There it is. Probably my weakest M3 but I have a deep resolve to work harder and push myself through the next 17-20 lbs and reach a weight I have not reached in almost 8 years.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-72255489870444092672010-02-11T19:47:00.001-08:002010-02-11T19:47:45.049-08:00Still in Dallas. Busy time and having a blast with my Aunt and Uncle. Update will come on Saturday.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-19758393624444815342010-02-09T21:24:00.001-08:002010-02-09T21:24:07.306-08:00Late nite. Sorry no blog. I'm in Big D.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-59239726845060733372010-02-08T20:49:00.000-08:002010-02-08T20:49:23.297-08:00Measure Me Monday (M3)It's Measure Me Monday! <br />
<br />
Today is the day I thought would come...I have zero lbs lost this week. Can you believe it? I can't. It has been by far the hardest week, in both diet and exercise. Cutting out sugars and throwing up during a P90X session. I have faced nothing like this past week.<br />
I did measure my body and lost 5 more inches! (really 4.75, but who's gonna get mad@me?) Also, I dropped from a 38 pant to 34! Which is really what I have been waiting for this whole time-to see some practical application to this weight loss. <br />
So, let's recap...Zero weight loss this week for a total weight loss of 26 lbs and another 4.75 inches, or as I like to think 5, bringing my total loss to 26.5 inches since January 4th. And to top it off I have dropped down from squeezing painfully into 38 inch waist pants to a good fit 34 inch waist. I know I did not loose body weight, but I know something happened that was good. So my spirits are still high and I am still motivated to keep trekking on in this challenge to get healthy!<br />
<br />
Also, because my wardrobe has to change I went shopping...<b><i>in my closet!</i></b> I have kept clothes that did not fit hoping for this day. And it came. It is like my wardrobe doubled on Saturday. There are clothes I can wear that I haven't been able to squeeze in for a year, and some that I am on the verge of getting into-and that motivates me more! <br />
We also are going to sell/giveaway coats and clothes that we are not going to wear anymore, and the pile is almost overwhelming our living room. For me, an organizer, it is just as freeing to get stuff out of my house and to know that I am using what I need. It is also good to know that others can benefit from my clothes that I have no need for today. <b><i>Sidenote:</i></b> if I get my big clothes out now, I will have no big clothes to get back into!<br />
<br />
I hope this finds you well, and I am so thankful for everyone that is keeping up with the journey. <br />
<br />
PS-sorry I did not blog last night. I went to bed at 10pm! Sarah has a fever from a virus and we are just tired right now. I will now have to make up two blogs so far...it will be done!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-63349318717894503572010-02-06T18:29:00.000-08:002010-02-06T18:29:49.102-08:00The iPadFirst off, I think I am going to be disappointed with my weight loss this week. It is not for a lack of effort. I have done my best job at both eating and exercising this week. On the P90X side, it has been the hardest week by far. I actually think the lifting will cause me to gain weight. I know, I know it will be fine. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Qyg5FVp_sA9Ibe_z9F2nr9zFXh2bjkC_c8r6LxvzhgQTR4tD_iEBVyry5J1z3ApiP-N_wDZYa9IKP__btuqh3zsD05ceYZYaWDi42uAdkadv06eODjhsB82K1_H-lctxBTRehdxVAo9G/s1600-h/hero2_20100127.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Qyg5FVp_sA9Ibe_z9F2nr9zFXh2bjkC_c8r6LxvzhgQTR4tD_iEBVyry5J1z3ApiP-N_wDZYa9IKP__btuqh3zsD05ceYZYaWDi42uAdkadv06eODjhsB82K1_H-lctxBTRehdxVAo9G/s320/hero2_20100127.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So it is time. I will not spend much time on this topic, but I wanted to address it. The iPad. I will first admit I am a big fan of all things Apple, but I do think this device will be another game changer. It was first the iPod-that changed the way we listen to music, then the iPhone-that changed the way we use phones, and now the inappropriately named iPad.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think the name is probably the first and blinding downfall for this device, but I was not surprised and know that I will eventually not think about an electronic hygienic device for females. There is another downfall that I have to get past-no multitasking. I am surprised that the OS will also be very similar to the iPhone. I do have hopes that this will change in the future, and I do think it will, but understand that they have an already-built-in audience of 75 million iPod touch and iPhone users. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now to the good stuff. I think this will change education. To me that is the biggest obvious application to this device. We are continually growing less and less dependent on paper, and this device will keep pushing us that direction. College kids, high school kids, even grad students will be given one on the first day of class already preloaded with the required reading at significantly lower prices. For all of us College grads, we understand how ridiculous it is to buy such overpriced books, only to sell them back to the store for a poor exchange rate. Now I believe the cost will be affordable and allow students to keep books and use them years after their graduation-if they want to. The medium will change and use video and sound to bring these dry text books to life. Maybe allowing for all types of learners to grasp the knowledge in ways that fits them best. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also believe it has so many other applications- like real estate agents taking prospective buyers around town and showing homes in their cars and deciding if it is worth their time to go all across town to see it. The medical field will use this everyday. Nurses will enter your vital signs into this and wirelessly download your info into your electronic file. Or better yet-you will place your finger print on the screen and your health insurance and personal info will pop up with your medical history in front of them so they will not have to waste everyone's time with the filling out of paperwork. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will use one to blog. I will use on to email, internet, watch movies, and even do some work. I will use one. It is the transition into the multi touch world of technology. And as we become more and more comfortable using one, this technology will then be adapted in other areas of life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I cannot wait until I can hold this in my hands and use one. I know it will be a great day. And remember, if you want to order me one (in support of this blog of course) you can!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-30616571314593063272010-02-05T21:18:00.000-08:002010-02-05T21:18:46.664-08:00iPadI want one. Nuf said.<br />
<br />
Teaser for tomorrow. I have spend the last hour and a half pushing it to the limit! Even threw up mid workout-sorry for the squeamish, but we really "left it on the field" tonight. Tomorrow I will have more time to lay down my reasons for the iPad-other than my complete devotion to everything Jobs.<br />
<br />
ChadChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-63095384501254098942010-02-04T19:48:00.000-08:002010-02-04T19:48:49.955-08:00Kids, Man They Say Funny Stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqhu2dCQcwhe7irHaDCzlPI7Tn4B8LBfhzu_OHPwPo9WEUGRONacjEjXmtmK75DtZ4dJ_7HSqp3FUvRGZvfmKXmZBjVLHOTTNlgv3LbWEewIsckoPyHyUCdxOgkTWCI5OPRvezUk-1COa/s1600-h/kids-say-the-darndest-things-volume-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqhu2dCQcwhe7irHaDCzlPI7Tn4B8LBfhzu_OHPwPo9WEUGRONacjEjXmtmK75DtZ4dJ_7HSqp3FUvRGZvfmKXmZBjVLHOTTNlgv3LbWEewIsckoPyHyUCdxOgkTWCI5OPRvezUk-1COa/s320/kids-say-the-darndest-things-volume-2.jpg" /></a></div>A conversation between Sarah and Harper.<br />
<b>Harper:</b> "Mommy, Cash wants to read the pony book." (Which happens to be Harper's favorite book.) <br />
<b>Sarah: </b>"Really Harper, how do you know that he wants to read the Pony book?" <br />
<b>Harper's:</b> "He said he wanted to read it. He told me that." <br />
<b>Sarah:</b> "Really, Cash told you that." <br />
<b>Harper:</b> "Yep, he told me with his eyes."<br />
<br />
That's my girl. <br />
<br />
Have great day.<br />
<br />
iPad coming soon...Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-37054913142597055972010-02-03T20:52:00.000-08:002010-02-03T20:52:43.513-08:00What a Day!Today some of our dearest friends from Alabama celebrated the birth of their baby girl. We have been praying for this little one for over 4 and a half years, while her mom and dad have been praying for her for much longer. <br />
We have our three kids and I am in awe of the whole creation/birth thing. As a male the whole pregnancy and birth mind blowing. I know I would not go through all of that! Especially after watching it with my own eyes!<br />
I am thankful for our kids, and I know that my life would be far less with out them. I am excited for our friends and the beginning they have with their new baby girl. I know they will be tired, frustrated, in awe, and thankful almost everyday. I also know them, and that they will experience our Father's love in a whole new way, and that I know they are not even a bit ready for-it still knocks me down.<br />
I do not know the legal name yet, nor the baby "stats," just excited for them as they are probably trying to catch their breath, and maybe get that little bit of first night as parents sleep-some of the best sleep they will ever have!<br />
God BlessChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-55435396187500745182010-02-02T21:02:00.000-08:002010-02-02T21:02:03.006-08:00One Long DayToday has been going...<br />
Just got home for the evening at 11:00 p.m. I am tired and am looking to be back at it around 6:45 a.m. Thanks for understanding. I am looking forward to the iPad blog this week, maybe tomorrow?Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-38904669497530010282010-02-01T20:41:00.000-08:002010-02-01T20:41:12.719-08:00Measure Me Monday (M3)<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">It's Measure Me Monday!</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMum0OHbsQ5JwFkvguR9tAbguX5ItgoNEX200RWfg-zW9obWx7Yn7vc07N3Yb0aSWzlhrg79CeNtbrP6WsOrOXQsKVL3sM1eupN-c4ia3rwniGgCGy_b1sRFei1qxI4SNWfX0gXUQ4eNX/s1600-h/Measuring_Tape_on_Apple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMum0OHbsQ5JwFkvguR9tAbguX5ItgoNEX200RWfg-zW9obWx7Yn7vc07N3Yb0aSWzlhrg79CeNtbrP6WsOrOXQsKVL3sM1eupN-c4ia3rwniGgCGy_b1sRFei1qxI4SNWfX0gXUQ4eNX/s400/Measuring_Tape_on_Apple.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><br />
I am really starting to like my Mondays. I wake up a little nervous, because I feel like I am doing well and making progress throughout the week, but do not want to see bad or no results. But mostly I am excited. <br />
<br />
Today I woke up tired and exhausted from the great weekend with Charles Francis Shirley---I know it should be the name of some kind of character name for a sitcom. It is always encouraging to have people visit us! So Come On!<br />
<br />
We had a great time and even got a Yoga X video in together with Derrick. <br />
<br />
I want to say that I am actually surprised by my results. I really did not see this coming, and this past week will probably go down as my best ever. <br />
<br />
My measurements were similar to two weeks ago. I have lost 4 and a quarter inches, making it a total of 21.75 inches.<br />
My weight loss is a surprising 9 lbs. brining my four week total to 26 lbs!<br />
<br />
It is great. I cannot fit into any smaller clothes yet (just means I was SQEEEZZZINNG into my pants) but most of you knew that by looking at me. I am looking forward to getting into a smaller pant size and getting to wear a few different shirts I have put away, but right now I am just excited to be making progress every week.<br />
<br />
For those of you out there looking to loose weight. I encourage you to find a partner. For me that has been the recipe for success. Derrick and Aleks have been my motivation when I was tired or worn out. They also are working just as hard, and it is fun to see their results as well. <br />
<br />
If you have started your own Measure Me Monday, or have a success story please post a comment.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-59321249460182771202010-01-31T20:51:00.000-08:002010-01-31T20:51:49.568-08:00PerformTonight at Young Life Leadership we had our first annual Leader Walk-On Talent Show. It was A-mazing. These leaders are funny! I am about to watch some Modern Family with Chuck and Sarah before we jump into the week. <br />
This Week:<br />
Measure Me Monday and the iPad!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-40443253337360127912010-01-30T21:46:00.001-08:002010-01-30T21:46:28.569-08:00Great day with Chuck. We went to College Gameday and saw a record crowd! Go Wildcats. <br>Yoga, Guitar Hero, dinner out with the kids, a movie, and now SNL. Let's see how Sunday goes! <br>Keep reading, because I think Measure Me Monday will be revealing.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-70700270807612708312010-01-29T19:25:00.000-08:002010-01-29T19:25:43.931-08:00Charles Francis Shirley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboUJzGkgD8S5DLKclOQ5MBiaLu8aBqHBRmBoMVh7E3Gbq7dgoUA45cLo5XfsNAT4-EUYxVKe-fv7kA7lhdC2Jku86dkogV0K8kJTWNT-53GOp2fWYmSH6Z9xonF0JI4hpEjCJ0hk6gvSB/s1600-h/walking+in+sparks_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboUJzGkgD8S5DLKclOQ5MBiaLu8aBqHBRmBoMVh7E3Gbq7dgoUA45cLo5XfsNAT4-EUYxVKe-fv7kA7lhdC2Jku86dkogV0K8kJTWNT-53GOp2fWYmSH6Z9xonF0JI4hpEjCJ0hk6gvSB/s400/walking+in+sparks_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Tonight one of my best friends in the world is coming to visit us. CHUCK! He is one of my favorite people on earth. I am excited to see him and who knows what the weekend will hold with Mr. Shirley in town. I will keep you updated.<br />
<br />
Just got done with Cardio X in the P90X workout. I feel great and am getting excited to move onto Insanity--props to DMaddox!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-54376258922494660742010-01-28T20:32:00.000-08:002010-01-28T20:32:55.114-08:00Lazy ThursdayI confess. This blog is lazy. I am so tired and looking to just sit and watch some telly. Good night.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-30892406228119613892010-01-27T20:58:00.000-08:002010-01-27T20:58:41.235-08:00What's Up Wednesday?So Wednesday has capped off this three day extravaganza on my diet. I have seen, talked with, watched, or read what people are saying about eating meat. I have to step back and say..."What's Up?"<br />
I am not the avid meat eater like my previous pastor. He would bow his chest and get proud and excited when someone brought up any red meat. It was almost one of those "manlyisms." I really enjoy a good rare to medium rare steak. I like good chicken, but otherwise will leave most chicken dishes. And though I like seafood my wife's aversion to it has left me not eating much the past 7 years. And so I sit back and have to take in the bombardment of information and personal stories about lowering or removing meat from my diet.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMti6b5v8hQrx6Qe4Ia86PzYfaex0IAepUIk0O6kSpXBkepOylib42ZOmFjewyJ9YAhEYnrdQCVaPJSDpRYQu5rlJ4YPZjZvr6w4q0-ZvFLpTVzoRGQ0-gEKnwISB3dsU1kJZyjt7Pc-_U/s1600-h/index_cover_TP.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMti6b5v8hQrx6Qe4Ia86PzYfaex0IAepUIk0O6kSpXBkepOylib42ZOmFjewyJ9YAhEYnrdQCVaPJSDpRYQu5rlJ4YPZjZvr6w4q0-ZvFLpTVzoRGQ0-gEKnwISB3dsU1kJZyjt7Pc-_U/s200/index_cover_TP.gif" width="127" /></a>I ordered this book called the <a href="http://www.thechinastudy.com/about.html">China Study</a>, by Joel Fuhran M.D. because our pediatric dentist and I got into this great discussion about how the information really impacted his families' lives. He is a fit man anyway, but about two years ago implemented this new diet and has seen his health increase dramatically, as well as some residual weight loss. I am waiting for it to come--maybe give you a review of it.<br />
It is weird to me how this information has really hit me this week. I feel Sarah and I are doing a great job of transitioning our family into watching our sugar intake and making sure we are focusing our diet towards a healthier place. I am hoping that this will educate me more and maybe even guide us further into health and an example for others. Because my past 9-10 years I have wandered from health and not really paid much attention to what I am doing to my physical self, and of course over the past 3 and a half weeks I am seeing that as I focus on my physical health it really affects my emotional, spiritual, and relational health.<br />
<br />
***For those of you who know me best, I really wanted to blog about the iPad. I am so excited and if any of the readers out there want to get me a gift to support this blog-that's the gift! I will let you know how I feel in the coming days. I am just too excited to really give you a good handle on what I think.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-66586358147757776112010-01-26T19:54:00.000-08:002010-01-26T19:54:04.126-08:00Parenting 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfN9_N3ayK0NGCNZph2OGl9v1z3yFkIWbv50eDAHlLxy2btfhinrOHZnK0IuQwU3SP3ZkudST6BAWnR-fxdqbDKcCUNoncs-2iy6xvP65t1c-9RBhUVmPKFB9KHNRWl3puslGKDRHnR471/s1600-h/1546260129_l.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfN9_N3ayK0NGCNZph2OGl9v1z3yFkIWbv50eDAHlLxy2btfhinrOHZnK0IuQwU3SP3ZkudST6BAWnR-fxdqbDKcCUNoncs-2iy6xvP65t1c-9RBhUVmPKFB9KHNRWl3puslGKDRHnR471/s400/1546260129_l.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
</div><br />
So today I realized that we may have some parenting knowledge. You know, you will go on doing something, gain experience/knowledge, and at some point be called upon to use it. Then you realize-"I actually know what I am talking about!"<br />
Well in the world of parenting you never really feel like you know what you are doing. You make decisions on the spot and react to life as it comes. And for us, most of the time, you second guess what you are implementing or asking your kids to expect as normal. <br />
Today some close friends who just had a beautiful baby recently wrote us and asked for some help. And as we read their email it was like reliving those same feelings and emotions. Confused, lying in the bed hearing our first born cry, and asking each other, "Are we bad parents?" I do not really wonder if every parent has asked that. I, at this point, assume that they all have. <br />
But the beautiful, and reassuring thing was that we immediately knew how we would respond. And to me that is Parenting 101. <br />
In life there are equations, linear thoughts, and rational explanations to outcomes, but that is not the parenting world. Knowing you are good parents is when Mom and Dad respond with a unified front to a problem. How you get to the response is usually not unified. It will take discussion, thinking ahead, questioning, discussion, comments on each others parents, heated discussion, throwing your hands in the air, more discussion, and coming together with a plan/response. <b>We are a unified front. </b><br />
I know that no matter how it turns out that I have my wife to support me, and vice versa. So often the kids seem to pit parent against parent. When they are babies it is not intentional. You are actually fighting different family experiences and upbringing. As the kids get older, they actually do pit you against each other.<br />
I remember asking my mom for something when I was younger and not getting the response I wanted, so then I would go to the softie of the family and ask the same question. I was not prepared for what would happen next. My dad asked, "What did your mother say?" I said, "She said no." Then he responded in an amazing way, "If your mom said no, then it is no." <br />
In my house, the parents were united. There will never be a day when I can pit my mom against my dad. We have been through some rough stuff and even when it was at its worst, I knew that if it came down to it, they would still be there for each other. <br />
It is my hope that my three kids know us to be those same types of parents. There is no way my wife and I will agree on most things-I think that is the beauty of love and marriage. But when we have to work together, make a decision, and follow through with consistency, there is no stopping us.<br />
So, there it is. Parenting 101. <i>The marital relationship is key to parenting.</i> It may sound obvious, but it is true. It does not matter if you feed your baby every time it cries, or if you let your baby cry itself to sleep. It does not matter if you let your kids eat candy or teach them to chant "Sugar is Bad, Sugar is Bad!" What matters is the oneness that supports the two married people called Mommy and Daddy.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-40123961393982066302010-01-25T21:16:00.000-08:002010-01-25T21:16:31.184-08:00Measure Me Monday (M3)Well today is very much like the past two Measure Me Mondays. I woke up and measured myself and have lost 6.5 more inches off my entire body, which totals to 17.5 inches in three weeks. And then tonight after my workout I weighed myself, and have lost another 6 lbs, which is a total of 17 lbs in 3 weeks. <br />
I will say I find myself using Measure Me Mondays as motivation throughout the week. On Saturday night Sarah and I ordered out our favorite chinese food and had a blizzard from Dairy Queen. It was the biggest splurge I have had this whole month, and I thought in the back of my mind-"this tastes good and I will enjoy it, but I want to make sure and keep Measure Me Mondays exciting." Today is exciting. I have a big goal to loose a specific number of pounds by December 31st and I am on my way to reaching it. <br />
Mondays are exciting now!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-54095100926369796302010-01-24T21:29:00.000-08:002010-01-24T21:44:07.081-08:00Tongue WrassleSo tonight I had the pleasure to do one of my favorite things. I got to "perform" for our Young Life leaders as I led a few of them in a game. <br />
In Young Life we love to bring humor into places where normally it would not exist. An example would be leading kids in a game. Most of our youth interact with adults at events in a regular way. If the event calls for a game or participation from the audience, the emcee or host will ask for volunteers and guide them through the details of the game and then let them loose. <br />
In Young Life we try to raise the bar by adding something that knocks you on your heels. At our Young Life Clubs we have volunteer leaders that plan and execute the whole night. These are also the people who are spending countless hours in relationship with kids in their community. So when we have a game we want kids to play we usually add some spice. One of these leaders will create a character, dress up, and perform the aforementioned tasks but in the role of this new person. It is just fun. <br />
Tonight I got to play a role, be a character, have fun. I will give you an insight.<br />
In ten minutes I used my creativity to fill in holes of a typical structure. I cam up with Ricky Tassle.<br />
<br />
Ricky Tassle: I'm Ricky Tassle. I'm short, I'm sweet, and I love to tongue wrassle! OOOOOUUUUUWWWWWEEEEE(hick accent required)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8RijmXJ1m8Xnw6sgfalcCOBYdLUR-kitA2TjUmvGJpH51MaSbeP5kwe_liR2Xg_tHC8x4Io0k6FdNiA6Didtj6ficgUvbYsn7yJqgI2piPzJ7vLESeYu4r4rtGp44tOibDEQrHikGG_N/s1600-h/IMG_0184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8RijmXJ1m8Xnw6sgfalcCOBYdLUR-kitA2TjUmvGJpH51MaSbeP5kwe_liR2Xg_tHC8x4Io0k6FdNiA6Didtj6ficgUvbYsn7yJqgI2piPzJ7vLESeYu4r4rtGp44tOibDEQrHikGG_N/s400/IMG_0184.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
</div><br />
That is my introduction. I go on to talk about where I am from and how this small town developed in me the ability to speak with authority on Love. <br />
<br />
It was fun. I think the leaders liked it. And no matter what, I did something most people never get a chance to do-have a blast at my job and thank God for it!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6412882874539249594.post-84683957539853460112010-01-23T16:07:00.001-08:002010-01-23T16:07:04.037-08:00Wow. What a Saturday. I am still in my workout clothes watching TV and vegging out! Today is a day to really look at why I exist and the implications I will have on the world. I'll let you know what I come up with.Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035806367452267799noreply@blogger.com0