November Brings the Rain...

I love the rain...really, I do. I have loved the rain ever since I was a little kid. It just so happens that now I get to live in one of the greatest cities for rain. I enjoy waking up to the sound of rain; it is just refreshing. Some days it does make me want to stay in bed a little longer, but it is still a nice way to wake up. So, the rain has begun here in the Great Northwest. It has barely stopped raining over the last few days. At work, David and I really do like the rain...everyone thinks we are wierd. We don't care.

This past weekend, we had a scavenger hunt with our students. They had to travel around Tacoma & they ended up at a corn maze! I think they had a blast...even the group that got lost and was quite a ways behind the other groups. I love doing things like that. I love the planning of it all. I love the anticipation. I love meeting the friends that students bring. I love when you feel like there is even just one student you have moved into a deeper relationship with...like you have just clicked. It is such a process. I love our leaders too. They really do love the students & are giving a lot to invest in these students. Our student ministry is so young. I know we have to stick with it. Press On!

Anyway, things are staying quite busy. This is my last full week at work here at Ambrosia & then fit4kids officially kicks off. I am excited & yet a little nervous about this new step in our lives. Also, coaching is starting up. I will be the Varsity Assistant Coach for the Curtis High School Vikings in University Place. They have a great program. I will be able to gain experience at a high level. I am pretty excited about it. We have try-outs in two weeks.

Buck is staying busy with school, work, and Discovery. We are also having fun watching ALIAS, Season 4. It came out on DVD last week. We have kind of been pathetic...but, it's okay to be like that every once in awhile.

BYE, BYE USC!

TEXAS PASSES USC IN THE BCS POLL!!! Don't worry, USC will continue to drop. They play in the PAC-10, so there is no way to regain your status as #1 when you are playing a bunch of pansies. But, if you hate Texas don't get too excited either. Virginia Tech has the toughest schedule of the TOP 3 & could beat either. Texas fans should be very worried if you have to play VA TECH or and SEC school instead of "Prom King" Matt Leinart and USC. If the ACC & SEC have someone (VA TECH, UGA, OR BAMA) go undefeated it will be an absolute disgrace when they have to play each other again in the Sugar Bowl. WAR EAGLE!

Uh yeah mom can you hold on a sec. ?

There are few things in life that you put your mom on hold for this one paid off:
Last night I talked to my mom for the first time in a month. No reason we hadn’t other then I let things get in the way of a simple phone call home. We chatted about important stuff for 20 min. or so then she asked about my Cardinals. (yes I realize I hold no stake other then emotional pride in the St. Louis Cardinals)

Mom: Your cardinals are doing pretty well
Me: Actually they are down 3games to 1 and only have 3 outs left to make up a 2 run deficit.
Mom: Oh really?
Me: yeah, I’m not real thrilled, make that 1 out left

Beth: I’ll let you know if it’s anything you want to watch.

I head back in the kitchen we chat a little more. A few minutes pass

Beth waves at me and motions for me to come into the living room

Me: *in a hopeful, but subdued tone*Ok hang on a second mom the greatest hitter in the game is up to bat with runners on 1st and 2nd (an exact quote) I might be a bit distracted.

Mom: *chuckles* who is that

Me: Albert Pujols, he’s also facing the games best closer.

Mom:ok

Pujols takes an ugly cut at a nasty slider (looking back on it I wonder if he didn’t do it to bait Brad Lidge).

Me: 2 strikes left

Next pitch Lidge hangs a slider over the plate, Pujols hits it square . . .

Me: *Yelling into the phone and jumping around the room* He did it! No way! He did it!

The ball lands literally over the bleachers (about 500 feet from home easy)

I’ve never felt a team go from utterly defeated to back in a series as quick as I did last night. Mom then handed the phone over to dad and I recounted to him the greatness of Albert Pujols and watched Izy close out the Ninth.

3-2 and headed back to St. Louis

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http://connect.worldvision.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=luLVJaMSKpH&b=851285&sid=suK0LdPWKhLOI2OXE

Tagged...

Well, I knew this was going to happen when I was reading Robyn's Blog...

i also don't normally do stuff like this, but I was tagged to continue the game, so i must.

what I was doing...10 years ago (1995)
let's see...I was starting 8th grade at Tucker High School in Tucker, GA...I played on the JV fastpitch team that year. I remember playing basketball during PE with the guys on the football team including Patrick Pass (now of the New England Patriots) and Lance Huff, our Varsity QB who I of course thought was totally cute! I had science with Ms. Burden...a legend at our school...and them some other classes I don't really remember. Oh yeah, and I went to Briarlake Baptist and was involved in a great student ministry!

5 years ago(2000)
I was starting my freshman year at Auburn. I didn't know anyone when I showed up on the lovely plains, but quickly began to find my place at Parkway Baptist and the BCM. CC Farris was my Insight (fresh Bible study) Leader...Amanda Champion and Rachel Greene were in my group. I loved my freshman year (minus my fall roommate)! I really began to understand the larger purpose God has for me & that His glory reigns above everything!


yesterday (9/11/05) Yesterday was the last day of INFUSION...our entry event for middle-schoolers...it was a blast. We went to the 9:19 service together and then had the drawing for the IPOD Shuffle (Cooper Won!) and announced the winning team (ORANGE!) who recieved Mariners' tickets. Then we came home to a messy house...b/c of the intense weekend...watched a little football. We went to a small group leaders meeting & then went to Red Robin to watch the first half of Sunday night football since we don't have cable. Afterwards, Buck studied for seminary and I didn things around the house until it was time for bed!

5 snacks I enjoy: Strawberries, Jalapeno Poppers, Ice Cream, Sour Patch Kids, & Mozzarella Sticks

5 songs I know all the words to: I don't know lots of fun songs like some people...so, it will have to be songs I play often on the guitar: One Pure & Holy Passion; Jesus, You Alone; I Will Walk By Faith - Jeremy Camp; Prince of Peach; oh...and the Auburn Fight Song!

5 things I would do with 100 million dollars: Build my mom the house of her dreams; Support church plants in the northwest; travel with Buck...I can't think of anything more fun or relaxing; invest in real estate (you know for college funds and stuff like that); and choose five friends to completely support in overseas missions!

5 places I would run away to: Boston in the fall; SanFrancisco...it's different; Portland...quaint after Seattle/Tacoma; anywhere in the mountains (why I love living in the Northwest); and the San Juan Islands (where we went on our honeymoon...it was perfect)

5 things I would never wear: Black Tennis Shoes; Reebok anything; lipstick that is not in the red, pink, peachy family; anything that supports the University of Alabama...it's a bad example to others & would probably make me throw up); Molly's (my maid of honor) "come get me" shoes..and for that matter...the skirt she made me!!!!!

5 tv shows that I love: College GameDay; SportsCenter; Survivor; Friends; Anything else having to do with sports

5 bad habits: Biting my fingernails; Judging people from the moment I meet them; are these my habits??? it doesn't say...some people have a bad habit of eating ants; okay back to me: eating junk food for breakfast (not often I guess); being too critical of situations & actions

5 biggest joys: the fact that Christ desires to have a relationship with me; my husband; my family & friends; the purpose & gifts I have been given to serve Christ; oh...sports...especially Auburn Football!!!

5 favorite toys: scrapbooking stuff; rubix cube; beanbag chairs we got for students; all my different picture frames; i guess I will say our new Mac b/c we need a computer...and it is really cool for video editing and stuff like that!

4 people I'm tagging: sorry about this...but i'm choosing... amanda champion, jenn stratton, rachel rogers, and rob weideman!

THE DAY IS FINALLY HERE: COLLEGE FOOTBALL KICKS OFF

For the first time in as long as I can remember, I do not have ESPN during college football season. I am a big fan of the "no cable in our home" way of life we have chosen...we are much less likely to waste time vegging in front of the television. However, watching college football from dawn on Saturday (College GameDay actually starts at 7am on the west coast) until I go to bed is definitely NOT a waste of my life, and I will miss it. Yes, there are still games on other stations...but the constant football & the best coverage in terms of analysis is only available through ESPN. I am sure I will survive & I will still be able to see my Tigers play. Below is an article from a great site, especially if your roots are in Auburn: www.theauburner.com

10 Rules for the Upcoming Season
by Mark, The Auburner

10. When Kenny Irons is hit hard on the field (which will be a rare occasion) … do NOT say “Oh my God! They killed Kenny!”

9. While in the student section, it is ok if you wish to sit down; but do not expect the people in front of you to do the same. It doesn’t matter what the score is.

8. Don’t get drunk before the game. The masterpiece of art that is Auburn Football must be enjoyed with a clear mind. If you can’t be the best at something, don’t even try to be. LSU fans will always be better drunks… get over it.

7. Don’t say ESPN sucks. While most of their analysts and hosts are morons, they provide more college football coverage than any other source. You should be VERY thankful.

6. If you’re going to make a sign or paint your body, it must be in complete support of Auburn… none of this “SportsCenter is Next” crap.

5. All clothing located on the upper half of your body is to be completely Auburn affiliated…Preferably, an orange t-shirt. Wearing a blue polo shirt with an orange undershirt won’t cut it… too preppy. As for the fraternity attire…UAB called, they want their blazers back. har har.

4. Cheers that involve cursing is classless, don’t join in. The “go to hell Alabama” cheer is acceptable however.

3. Know the fight song. Don’t get mad at me for not knowing the Alma Mater.

2. Auburn went 13-0 last year. Why? Because of their ingenious football skills and beastly athletic abilities… it wasn’t because of your “lucky hat” you wore to every game last year… don’t say it was.

1. During a football game, do NOT boo at anything Auburn. I don’t care if Brandon Cox throws 20 interceptions. I don’t care if Coach Tuberville puts in Tre Smith at Left Tackle. Every newspaper article about Jason Campbell going into the NFL mentioned how he was booed by the students after he threw an interception during the first game last year. Unfortunately, it was true.

WAR EAGLE! ! !

Happy Birthday Buck!

Well, it was a great weekend celebrating Buck's birthday! We had the traditional peanut butter pie (you know, the pie I won his heart with). Anyway, I am so glad I have been able to spend the last year with you, babe. And, I look forward to many more celebrations in the future. I love you!

Seriously...

I cannot believe another hurricane is headed straight toward my family...and the entire Florida panhandle again...CRAZINESS! It should it them sometime Monday. I have never seen Pensacola as devastated as last October from Ivan. And, nothing has let up since then.

Trust...

The last few years of my life...I have had many conversations with God about TRUST! I have asked Him to place me in situations where the only way out is by TRUSTING Him. And, then everytime I question what He is doing...WHY?!? He is God; I am not (I actually came to this conclusion awhile ago). Anyway, life is good because God always provides...not in the way we always plan out...but, HE always provides. Mostly, He is concerned with His name being lifted up & He loves to have us lean on Him so that others will see Him. So, I am sure there is another adventure around the corner...and, I know, somehow God's character will be revealed in my life. I am so glad I am able to commune with Him every second of every day...If only I chose to spend more time with Him...I don't think I would be as shocked or overwhelmed by His continual presence and provision in my life.

70:4

Last night we kicked-off 70:4, it was such a blast! 70:4 is our mid-week outreach to 6-8th grade students. We had 8 kids and it was just plain exciting! Most of our middleschoolers are new 6th graders. And they are pumped to be out of elementary school.

The thing I love more then anything about the fall is the fresh start. When you have new people to a group or organization they often bring with them an excitement and enthusiasim that becomes contagious. It was great and I can't wait for next week. If you would pray for our students and leaders this fall.

New Site...

We are in the process of developing a new site for student ministry news. Feel free to check it out anytime: www.discochurch.com/students The link is also located to the right. If you know students or parents of students in the Tacoma area, please direct them here for all the newest opportunities for students at Discovery Community Church. Thanks so much! Enjoy!

Bare with us...

Our blog could get crazy in the coming months...I mean late summer & early fall is one of the best times in sports...football kicking off...baseball heating up...basketball free agency...predicting the heisman...predicting brackets...you name it, it can all be done this time of year. So, our blog may get a little heavy with "our" exciting responses, polls, and news...bare with us.

Now for the fun...College Football Pick 'em. It was a fun race to the end last year. Follow this link to join our league View From the Northwest: http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/college

In order to join the group, just go to College Football Pick 'em & click the "Sign Up" button (or "Create or Join Group" if you are a returning user).

From there, follow the path to join an existing private group and when prompted, enter the following information...

Group ID#: 1242
Password: tacoma

Rookie of the Year

Let us know who you think will win the offensive & defensive rookie of the year awards in the NFL; tell us why if you would like:

Offensive
A. Carnell "Cadillac" Williams - Buccaneers
B. Ronnie Brown - Dolphins
C. Cedric Benson - Bears
D. Alex Smith - 49ers
E. Troy Williamson - Vikings
F. JJ Arrington - Cardinals
G. Braylon Edwards - Browns
H. Mark Clayton - Ravens
I. Other (there are plenty to pick from...Heath Miller...Matt Jones...anyone!!!)

Defensive
A. David Pollack - Bengals
B. Marlin Jackson - Colts
C. Carlos Rogers - Redskins
D. Derrick Johnson - Chiefs
E. Thomas Davis - Panthers
F. Fabian Washington - Raiders
G. Antrel Rolle - Cardinals
H. Adam "Pacman" Jones - Titans
I. Other (I left off some good sack guys)

We will post the totals in a couple of weeks! Have fun!

P.S. If you are interested in joining our fantasy league, let us know ASAP.

Hi5.com

Follow this link: http://www.hi5.com/i?l=XADFOXC
Connect with me & your other friends. The more friends I have that move all over the country & world, the better it is to try new things to keep up with people. You never know who you are going to find...

Chips & Salsa...

WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Buck and I are trying desperately to find a great place in the Tacoma area to eat good chips and salsa while watching a good game. We have driven far away for this experience too many times. Please help us with any suggestions you can think of...especially since football season is on the way.

The Movie in my mind

Some times with my job I get paid to sit and listen to some very good speakers. Last night was just such an experience.

Ron Crossland is one of the authors of the book to the right. He spoke to the senior leaders at Washington Mutual last night. I was the sound guy for the event.

Crossland made a very compelling case for the idea that the mind takes in information through 3 channels and combines. When it recalls the information the 3 channels make 1 memory or as he stated it a movie.

Let me pause here to say I am a huge movie buff and even dabble a little bit in making short films, usually for student ministry stuff. But this idea connected with me at a very deep level. I'm getting a bit ahead of myself though.

The important factor in this is the 3 channels of information:

1) Facts - this is the data, the statistics, the knowledge that needs to be communicated.

2)Emotions - Does the information connect with me? Do I care about it? Do I want to act upon it? Studies have shown that we make decisions first based upon our past experiences and then on the information we've been given.

3)Symbols - This is the Metaphor, Story, Picture. It is this function that will make it last in your memory. Stories have been around since the beginning of man kind. One of the reasons we love movies and books is because we connect with the story. Also it's easier to remember a story then a fact!

So what does all that mean? Well he went on to say that a memory will contain all 3 elements wether you give them to them or not. So if you leave one out the listener will fill-in the blanks themselves. This explains how 2 people can hear the exact same thing and interprut it in different ways. The filled in the missing pieces in different ways.

As a leader then it is crucial that we communicate all 3 channels to allow for optimal communication with those we lead! He used several wonderful examples including a speech (text / video)by Ronald Regan just after the Challenger Explosion. If you read the speech or watch the video you'll notice the way he uses Symbols facts and emotion. He uses the names of the astronaughts, and begins with Nancy and I (not THe position of PResident)are pained to the core. It's a good speech.

I'm curious to hear if you buy it or not?

Christmas in July

We joined the club on Saturday!

The Barbarian Way...Impact Our World

What a great book! If you haven't read this, I encourage you to BUY it today. It will challenge you & require you to think about your relationship with Christ in a new way. It is the perfect book to read if you are unenthusiastically walking in your journey with Christ! WARNING: Only read it if you are willing to change...willing to pursue Christ completely...willing to try "the barbarian way". If you are not ready to live differently, you will simply be frustrated and will struggle to justify your lifestyle. Our summer small group is currently reading this. It is exciting to see other women who want to step out of their comfort zones as well as this "christian society" we have so comfortably become entrapped in. THIS IS A MUST READ FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO IMPACT OUR WORLD!

What's up with these colors?

I'm really just playing with the new photo attachemnt on our blog. But seriously who chose the all-star colors?

A deserving Start

For those that don't know the All-Star Game is in about 2hours. Mr. Carpenter will be starting the game and deserves too, becasue well his team has a great chance to be in the World Series this year and the winner gets home field advantage. I'll skip that stats etc. on why he should be there, but trust me he should!

I tried to win box seats to the mariners this morning from a local morning show here in Seattle. All you had to do was call in with an interesting topic and then chose a player you thought would be the MVP of the All- Star game. I chose to talk about carpenter and the host and I got in a little debate, which was fine. THe bad news was my cell phone cut out before Icould chose my player sooo . . . they gave me Chris Carpenter as my MVP candidate.

For those that don't know pitchers never win the All-star MVP becasue they only pitch 1-2 innings max. So Here is to Carpenter striking out every hitter he faces on 3 pitches!!!

Black Market Excedrin...

Well, there is this one type of medicine that really helps me when I get this certain headache or when my body is just hurting too bad: Excedrin Quicktabs. I have tried so many other things...but, only this works. Recently, it began to seem quite impossible for us to find this medicine...it was slowly disappearing. So, Buck decided to e-mail Excedrin, and they said that it was no longer available and that there was not an equivalent on the market. Then, this morning, my mom called and said that my aunt had found this drug store that could order me five boxes of the medicine...that was great & I definitely want it. I don't really care where he gets it from. So, this week sometime I should receive five boxes of the only medicine that helps me feel better. Black Market Excedrin...who knows...

Well they got the matching thing right

You Are Strawberry Ice Cream

A bit shy and sensitive, you are sweet to the core. You often find yourself on the outside looking in. Insightful and pensive, you really understand how the world works. You are most compatible with chocolate chip ice cream.

What Flavor Ice Cream Are You?

Try this...

You Are Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

You are kind, popular, and generous. You tend to be successful at anything you try. A social butterfly, you are great at entertaining a crowd. You are most compatible with strawberry ice cream.

What Flavor Ice Cream Are You?

Well, I don't particularly agree with this....me popular? entertaining a crowd? I even changed some of my answers and still got this....anyway, see what you are by following the link above!

HOT!!!

Well, my trip to Florida was good...just a little too hot. I realize that I am spoiled because I live in the great northwest...where we seldom have days too hot or too cold to do whatever I please. Aside from the rain, that has yet to show up today, our weather is pretty great!!! I just cannot take the heat anymore. I cannot believe I used to live there...play sports year round...stay at the beach for hours. Now, it is difficult to walk from the house to the car.

It was great to see the fam though. We were able to celebrate the fourth and a bunch of birthdays that are coming up this month. Josh and I played baseball and army; Barrett, Joe, mom and I played guitar and sang; Daniel, Adam, and Steven went to Chick-fil-A with us...can't miss that on a visit to the south.

I think we are heading that way for Thanksgiving. I am looking forward to Buck getting to know my family better!

The opinions expressed on this blog . . .

. . . do not necessarily represent the Webb family. Sometimes in fact my wife has an opinion directly opposite of my own. While that is not always the case it should be taken into consideration by our faithful readers (both of you).

Sincerely,

the management

Sorry...

I cannot think of many people on this earth I love more than David, Farah, and their sons, Dax and soon, Cole! What wonderful names! I must apologize for my previous post when using them as examples...I am simply bitter and should not take that out on them. Please accept my apologies...and PLEASE let me be Aunt Bether again...

Naming your children...

Maybe I am simply a bitter adult...I always hated that I was called Beth (not because I don't like Beth) when my name was Elizabeth. Everywhere I go, I have to correct people or accept them calling me by Elizabeth. Sure...in second grade you can tell the teacher you go by something other than your name listed, but you don't tell every substitute and every college prof and the person who swipes your debit card at Macy's and the doctor...it just gets out of control. Some places have those cute little places to put the name you actually go by, but then some of them don't even look at that. Anyway, because of all of this, it has made me want to name our children (ONE DAY) whatever I am going to call them. I do realize that sometimes this doesn't make the name sound as good. I mean Elizabeth Paige (Buchanan) Webb sounds much better than Beth...I admit it. But, is it really worth the hassle. My husband had the same problem and it never bothered him. I know I am a little more uptight about it, but I have known plenty of people who grew up hating the same problem. Our friends David and Farah have recently decided on the name of their second son who is due in November. In order to be consistent, they will also call him by a shortened version of his middle name. I love both names: Joshua Daxton called Dax is their first son & Andrew Colton called Cole is on his way. But, WHY??? It just drives me crazy...knowing what they are going to go through their entire lives. I know that Buck and I will have disagreements over naming our children because of this one idea but, I am sure we will eventually come up with some names! So, this is just something to think about when naming your children...

Our week ahead...

Well, we have a busy week next week. Buck is leaving on Tuesday to go to SanFrancisco for a three-day seminary class...something having to do with worship. While he is gone, I will be leaving for Pensacola on July 1 for a quick trip home to see the fam. My flight there covers 12 hours and 45 minutes... a direct flight would be about 5.5 hours. I just hope I can sleep some on the plane...and in the airports. So, on Monday, July 4, I will be back at home with my wonderful husband. At least we don't have a ton of plans before he heads out.

So Far . . .

North America

Europe

Africa

See more progress on: visit every continent (except antarctica- too cold)

Totally Worth It!

This is something Buck and I have talked about. We really want to learn to be about giving. This is just one way we can do that. Also, I think it is really cool that he is from India (one of the countries I want to visit) and we have the same birthday. Eventually, we want to sponsor a child with the same birthday as Buck too! I can’t wait until we start getting updates about Ningthuigong’s life!

See more progress on: Sponsor a child through WorldVision

He has the same birthday as me...

Born: Nov 08, 1997
Grade: 0
Favorite Subject: Rhymes
Health: Good
Favorite Play: Group Games
Gender: Boy
Chores: Runs Errands
Country: India

Congratulations! You have sponsored Ningthuigong from India

Ningthuigong lives with his parents and 2 sisters. His parents struggle to provide for the family. His father is a farm laborer and his mother is a farm laborer. Despite their efforts, it is difficult to meet the family’s needs.

Ningthuigong is growing up in a poor community in India. A typical home is constructed using wood with a thatch roof and dirt floor. Rice is a staple of the local diet, and families may also eat vegetables, cereal and beans. Some communities are able to get meat, fish and prawns as well. Plains, hills and forests mark the land.

Ningthuigong is not in school at this time. He likes to play group games. He helps at home by running errands. He is in good health.

Your sponsorship commitment will help provide Ningthuigong and his community with clean water, improved health care and hygiene and regular medical check-ups. In addition, your support provides training for children and parents to help raise the quality of life in their community. We are thankful for your commitment and your prayers so these precious children and their families are able to experience the love of God and life in all its fullness.

See more progress on: Sponsor a child through WorldVision

Lessons...

We have found several places in Tacoma with all different types of classes. I think we are going to start with ballroom & then move on to more exciting stuff. Join us if you would like!

See more progress on: Learn to dance…now that I have a partner

43 Things...

Well, we all have things we want to do, things we dream of doing, and those things we simply NEED to do. This website, www.43things.com helps you organize, journal about, and encourage others in their pursuit of their goals. Who knows...maybe your best friend or spouse or someone you are trying to build a relationship with has the same goals.

To see what my goals are visit http://www.43things.com/people/view/BethinTacoma

Let me know if you set up your own 43 things!

My Cutest Baby Contest...

Vote for the Cutest Baby and a chance to win 10,000 Points! We've narrowed 10,000 submissions down to 18 semi-finalists. Now it's your turn but you can only choose one. Ten lucky voters will win 10,000 Points. Want to increase the odds of your choice winning? Voting ends June 24th.

http://www.mypoints.com/mp/dStatial.show?isref=ispages.voting.cutestbaby

Tanya...guess which child I thought was yours. Maybe I am crazy, and it was one of those...'at first glance things'.

Seriously...

The Braves are on the verge of being great...they are still hanging in their as good. Score some runs for crying out loud. And, it better be a lot, because once we get past our superb starters it is like a little league bullpen, every other guy (at least) gets on base. Yes, we have been hit hard by injuries...Hampton, Thomson, Perez, Chipper...and now Estrada...did you see the hit he took?!? Yes, we have eight rookies on the roster right now. But, SERIOUSLY, the Nationals are in first place. We need to go out & get a better bullpen and just one (that's all I am asking for) power hitter for the middle of the line-up, someone to drive in some runs.

On to better things...Auburn opens the 2005 Football season in 88 days when Georgia Tech comes to town..tough home opener. It will be a good opportunity to measure where we are at the start. We lost a lot of talent. But, we are bringing back some matured talent. WAR EAGLE!

Sometimes you just feel...BLAH

Not much to chat about...just living every day...trying to find my place. How in the world am I supposed to serve my husband and live by grace? It's tough. I think it takes complete surrender to the Holy Spirit!!! That is not an easy thing to do: COMPLETE SURRENDER! I like to control things, even if it means controlling my bad attitude. I need to be praying for wisdom and encouragement, and instead, I find myself begging (a form of prayer) for an easy road. I know that God never promises us a life that is all about us, in fact, He is pretty clear that it won't be about us. But, sometimes I need a ME day! Anyway, life really is good. God continues to provide. I am continually learning. Yet, sometimes, you just feel BLAH!

You've gotta see this!

I think it was the best one of the 6! Easily the best of the prequels but it may have been the best of the 6. However if they had come out in order (1 - 6) I think "Empire" would have held on as the best. But for my money here is the order(well that is until I watch 4-6 again, which i have an itch to do now that the series is complete):

1- Episode 3- Had a great pace, lots of action and it just wraped everything up.
2- Episode 5 (Empire strikes back) - Could have the most quoted line in movie history! "Luke, I am your Father!"
3- Episode 6 - Vader is reedeemed and the good guys finally prevail!
4- Episode 4 - It started the whole thing
5- Episode 2 - Not bad some cool effects and moved the story along
6- Episode 1 - 3 words - Jar Jar Binks

What do you think?

(and yes my wife is more spiritual then me)

MOVE!

"Do not ask the Lord to guide your footsteps

if you're not willing to move your feet."

How many times have I prayed this and not meant it? Who knows? But, I do know how amazing it is to pray for guidance and courage at the same time...to know what to do and when to do it. Oh, that daily I would be enough of a barbarian to follow WHEREVER He leads...into a conversation...into a tough situation...into the lives of the unchurched around me...into the broken hearts of the students we encounter...wherever...whether I have been there before...whether I will see what I expect or something else...whether I will enter never to return. Lord, give me the courage, the strength, the desire, and the willingness to pray big prayers, to dream big dreams, and to trust YOU above all that I can see...and MOVE!

War Eagle!

The Sporting News Honors Auburn in Preseason Rankings
May 20, 2005

AUBURN - The 2005 Sporting News Football Yearbook has ranked Auburn ranked 16th in the nation and second in the Southeastern Conference Western Division while a number of Tigers have garnered top rankings at their respective positions.

Five Auburn players have been named in the top 10 of their respective positions on a national scale.

Senior Marcus McNeill has been named the top offensive tackle in the nation by the publication and is also a first-team preseason All-American. Sophomore Stanley McClover, meanwhile, is considered the third-best defensive end nationally, is predicted to be the SEC Defensive Player of the Year and is a second-team preseason All-American.

Senior Travis Williams is considered the No. 6 inside linebacker in the nation by the publication. Williams helps anchor a linebacking corps that TSN ranks as the top unit in the SEC.
Additionally, three more Tigers garnered No. 7 national rankings. They include junior wide receiver Courtney Taylor, senior fullback Jake Slaughter and junior kicker John Vaughn.

Three more Tigers earned No. 13 rankings. Defensive end Quentin Groves and nose guard Tommy Jackson combine on the defensive line while junior punter Kody Bliss was also recognized.

Auburn opens the 2005 season by hosting Georgia Tech Sept. 3

at Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Buck is gone...I know, it's just for five nights

Well...five nights seems like a long time. I made fun of our friend David last summer because he couldn't sleep while his wife, Farah, was gone...in fact he was pretty useless. Now, I am regretting some of my words. I am not sure I am going to fare that well either. I mean...his flight hasn't taken off yet, but I have already convinced myself that I miss him. I drew a sad face on our calendar at home for today...he erased it. But, don't worry, I put it back; i kinda think it is good that I am sad that he is leaving. Anyway, there is no sense in being miserable while he is gone. He will not be miserable there...seeing old friends...working with students...doing what he loves. I just hope that next time I will be able to go with him. I was invited...but you know how jobs can be. I mean, it's not like I used ALL of my vacation time for a honeymoon or something. I am staying with friends that I haven't been able to hang out with for awhile. It should be fun! But, I will still miss him.

This is a test of BloggerBot 

Today, I came across some quotations about opinions. I am married to someone who is such a good listener...sometimes it seems unfair that he should have to listen to me so much, when I am so good at NOT listening (maybe sometimes just not wanting to "hear"what he is saying) to his opinion. Anyway, I know that learning to listen is a vital part of marriage. And, I know even more that I need to learn to understand where he is coming from. I value the way he conducts his life and the way he leads us; now I need to learn to show that by listening.

"Every man should periodically be compelled to listen to opinions which are infuriating to him. To hear nothing but what is pleasing to one is to make a pillow of the mind."

- St. John Ervine

"Honest differences of views and honest debate are not disunity. They are the vital process of policy-making among free men."

- Herbert Hoover

"It is the man who does not want to express an opinion whose opinion I want."

- Abraham Lincoln

Graduation...Again

Well, I cannot believe it has been an entire year since I graduated from Auburn with a degree in History. I remember the day so clearly. It was a bittersweet day...a great part of life was over. My roommates and friends were all going in different directions. We celebrated! We laughed! But, soon we realized what exactly graduating meant...how our lives would change & most importantly how our relationships would change.

Some great friends walked through that line today...Jay, following in great footsteps received his history degree, Janet (a history major drop out) received her sociology degree...and many others that seemed so far away from this day. I felt like I was leaving them in college forever, but now they are done too. CONGRATS to all of the Auburn grads...I can't wait to see what God does in & through you in these coming years...TRUST HIM ALONE. Oh, and Jay...call me if you get a job using your degree!! WAR EAGLE!

Sonics' Fans

Well, today is a true test! Buck and I are "trying" to become Sonics' fans. We wanted to be able to root for a team together...and not just because a team is playing a team we both hate (i.e. the yankees). In baseball, we both like the Mariners, but have our teams (buck - Cardinals & beth - Braves) and in football it is the same; we both like and follow the Seahawks, but my heart is with the Colts and, yes, my husband is a Bengals fan. They were good...you know like two decades ago (they are starting to compete again though...helps when you have an Auburn boy running the ball for you). Anyway, we like the Sonics...they are a "high-character" team, with a great coach, a fun style to watch, and we picked a good year to start being fans. It has been a fun journey. I would like to say they can win without Ray, but he is the man...the one that can take over a game and make it happen. The series isn't over if they lose tonight, but it will be a steep climb. I think I will be sad if the Sonics lose, in fact, I know I will be sad. Does that mean I am a Sonics' fan?

Normal Windows

I am just wondering if other people have normal windows in their homes. I am not completely bitter yet about the fact that our windows are insane. We either have to get the "super-cheap hope they don't fall if you breathe kinda blinds" or the "buck is a student pastor so we can't afford them" kind. There are no inbetweens for our crazy windows. That is why today after work, Buck will once again go to Home Depot...with something to take back, of course. We are down to our office...the weirdest width windows of them all. Anyway, if you have normal windows and whatever you want fits...I really don't want to hear about it, except maybe to know that there is such a thing as NORMAL WINDOWS!

The newest "Apple" of my eye

I have this addiction, really it's more of a craving, but it tells me that I absolutely MUST have the item pictured below. I mean the outside is only half as cool as what you can do with it.



Beth and I decided that we did indeed need to get a computer for the house. Her one stipulation was that it look really cool (mission accomplished). Besides the coolness factor there are actually a lot of good reasons to buy a computer for the house. E-mailing, keeping track of our finances, checking the scores on the games, editing video's for church and our wedding. Editing video means that a PC just won't do so you have to go to the Mac. Not to metion the fact that Mac just came out with it's latest OS (Operating System). Besides did you see how cool it is??

But we have this silly little thing called a budget which always seems to get in the way of us spending money on "fun" stuff. In the end It's a good thing I realize this but it's awfully hard when you have a craving! So to fill my craving fix I'm posting this and feel better already. Well at least till tommorow.

****Disclaimer (of course Beth is the true apple of my eye, but it's a catchy title, humor me.)****

For all you Spelling Nazis

I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer inwaht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Amzanig huh? yaeh and I awlyas thought slpeling was ipmorantt

Hoenstlty deos it ralely mttaer?

It's Raining

I know this will surprise many of you, but it is raining in the great northwest today...almost like it was raining on our wedding day. It never stops. It's not like it is freezing though, just the cold that comes from the rain. Buck and I were not disappointed that it rained on that day. It was peaceful, just like it is today. Yes, it would be a little more peaceful if I were at home, cuddled up with Buck under a blanket on our couch watching Alias and in between episodes maybe just talking. I love when we go to bed before we are really sleepy and we can just talk for awhile. There is nothing better to me. So, the rainy days aren't so bad. I wish everyone was able to enjoy the rainy days like I do. If it slows down the pace of life, accept it & enjoy it. If it makes things a little muddy, remember that a sunbreak (as we call it here) is just over the horizon.

Just give the Cardinals the Pennant

The Cardinals will win the NL this year for 1 reason: Pitching!! They have the best starting 5 I've seen from a Cardinals team since, well, ever. Both Matt Morris and Chris Carpenter are healthy and they both are solid #2 starters with the potenial to have #1 stuff; Mulder is a proven Ace, which leaves Marquis (who is only 26) and Suppan, both of which would be #3's in all but a handful of rotations.

The key to the starting five can be found in Mulder's recent 10 inning Shutout victory over Roger Clemens. Clemens lasted 7 innings and threw 123 pitches, while Mulder threw a mere 107 in 10 innings. How you ask? Simple the Cardinals have bought into Dave Duncan's philosophy of 'let them hit the ball on the ground and take the outs'. The Cardinals won't rack up the strikeouts; they are built to eat innings and force the other team to hit the ball.

Here is the kicker: the Cards are known for thier killer line-up, but the line-up has yet to produce and they are still 14-5. Yeah, it's good to be a member of the Cardinal Nation!!

Counting Down...

ONLY 129 DAYS 'til opening weekend in college football. WAR EAGLE!

And, speaking of college football, here is a great link to visit:
http://www.auburntigers.com/football/page.cfm?doc_id=9514

A Great Question...

So, a friend at work e-mailed me today with a great question:
What do you think is the balance of being honest with someone when they say, “How are you?” I truly believe that even in the midst of struggles, we should have joy, and should not be pessimistic or negative. But I also feel strongly that, as Christ-followers, we should be authentic. What do we say when someone asks that and means it?

I rambled on for a few minutes with an answer, but I still feel like I could discuss this for days or years...and never know how to truly be authentic and joyful all the time:
That is a great question…one I struggle with practically every day of my life. I never know what to do…even in the small encounters of life. What do I say on Sunday mornings at church? (Reason #764 I hate “meet and greet” time) What if I don’t feel good or even feel like smiling when I am at work? I really am pretty happy most of the time, but when I am bummed, I am way bummed. But, that doesn’t mean I have lost all faith in Christ. And, I don’t want to sound “religious” with “I am having a tough day, but God is still good” as a response, even though that is probably the most honest I could be in many situations. During the times when I am struggling with my faith and purpose, I think it is the hardest to be authentic because I don’t want people to know that I am struggling with that, but how many people in my life really want to know that I am struggling with that…four or five? But, those also pose the greatest opportunities to share our journey with someone else or even encourage someone else without ever knowing it. Even though I don’t do it well, I think it is important to think of some great things that God is doing…kind of like a fall back tank. For example, sometimes there are specific things that really frustrate me...and Buck knows it; but when he asks me I don't want to just complain some more. So, now when Buck asks me about my feelings toward certain subjects (someone whom I know wants authenticity) I can HONESTLY say what I am struggling with, but point out what God is doing in my life at the same time. Does that make sense? I am REALLY trying to do that as far as this new transition in my life goes…but that still brings us back to the everyday generic, “how are you?” question we hate. I think we have to trust God…that we will have joy in the encounters that need joy, but that we would be real with our struggles, our bad days when an opportunity to let everything out (in a healthy way, of course) arises. It all goes back to being lead by the Holy Spirit. I think that will be hard for me as long as I live. I think we know when God provides us with the opportunity to grow by sharing, to feel better by crying for a little while, to dig into His Word, and/or to encourage others through our struggles. I also think we know when a smile is needed. If deep inside of us we do have the joy of Christ, then smiling or saying we are good is authentic. Sometimes we have to share the joy even when we don’t feel like it. I don’t know if that makes any sense…just a bunch of ramblings.

If you have any thoughts on the subject let me know.

The Weekend is Finally HERE...well almost

Do you ever get to the point on Fridays where it seems pointless? By about 2:30pm I usually begin to shut down: I may still take a few phone calls...I still deal with the mail...but, other than that I just check out sports scores and let the weekend begin. I just love the weekends! And especially this weekend, because Buck and I have NO plans until Sunday morning. We have a few things to get done around the house and some student ministry administrative tasks to take care of, but for the most part we can just hang out and relax. We will probably watch at least three or four episodes of Alias. We are on season two. I am trying hard not to tell Buck what I already know. But, once we get toward the end of this season we will both be in the dark. Anyway, we all need weekends with no plans!

That's it I quit!

I'm tired of it. Tired of the guilt, the constant nagging every month as I look at my bills. Tired of throwing money down the drain so today it stops! I'm not doing it anymore!

I'm officially quiting the Gym! Bally's will no longer be recieving my $22.37 each month. As good a deal as it has been I just simply haven't gone in the last 4 months so I'm done.

Maybe this will work...

Well, Buck and I had a lot of trouble maintaining our individual blogs so we are going to try a joint blog. Maybe between the two of us it will work.

Our wedding was so wonderful...we both really relaxed and enjoyed the day! I didn't want to walk away and immediately forget the emotions I felt or the words that I said. It was great to have our family and friends here with us.

Anyway, we are beginning to settle into married life. Besides fighting over the covers and his elbows to my face, the adjustment hasn't been too difficult. We are trying now to pull our lives together. We are busy getting our house in order...trying to figure out what things we really need and how that fits into our budget.

And, we are really excited about finally getting to focus on our ministry in Tacoma and at Discovery. We were so distracted for the few months before the wedding, that we didn't put the time or energy into the students that is needed. I think a few relationships are beginning to develop on a deeper level. Please pray for us as we continue to explore ways to reach students.