Lead Feet

The First 30

2009-06-27T11:39:00.005-04:00

As most of you know, I'm turning 30. I thought I'd share a few things I've learned so far.

1. A Relationship With Jesus is Everything, Period.
This was a hard lesson. Everything else MUST revolve around it.

2. Laugh.
People who never laugh are miserable, and don't live as long as those who do. So lighten up, life's too short to be taken seriously. Even when life stinks, laugh.
It will give you a new perspective.

3. Keep it Simple.
I spent too much time wanting bigger things, more things. What's wrong with that?
You become less focused as you have to work harder and longer to keep them. Last year, I turned down a promotion with a huge raise. Stupid? Hardly. I watched other managers who missed out on family stuff to meet the requirements of that job.

4. Family is Important.
I lost Dad a few years ago, and my Grandma a decade before that, both in their 50's.
You never regret the time spent, only what you didn't. I'm always happier with my family than without them.

5. Forgive.
Ephesians 4:32 Not only is it biblical, You make yourself sick holding on to bad stuff.

6. Try the Calf Fries.
Try new things. For the record, they taste like country fried steak.

7. Don't Exist-Live.
While it's ok to lay on the couch, don't forget to get out of the house.

8. Pick the Right Fights.
Know what is worth fighting for, and what isn't. Don't be afraid to walk from things that aren't.

Remember none of us are promised tomorrow. I'm not claiming to have everything figured out, but God has blessed me with some great opportunities. I'm loving life, and I'm thankful for everything in it. If there's something in it I don't like, I'm probably supposed to be learning something from it.

Hilarious!!

2008-11-18T13:41:00.001-05:00

This is worth 16 seconds of your time. Trust me.

Must be from the south.

2008-10-24T18:33:00.002-04:00

see more pwn and owned pictures

Funny Cat Video

2008-09-24T18:50:00.002-04:00

Linked 6yearmed from carlos, she had this to share.

I'm Still Here!

2008-08-24T21:25:00.003-04:00

I know, it's been a while. I don't like to post just to post, so when I update, it's worth a read. That being said, Tony Morgan had a good post today. Click here. This kind of thing's up my alley. Later.

Lately

2008-07-06T20:45:00.003-04:00

I know my updates are few and far between these days, but blame twitter. It lets me instantly post whats on my mind, so instead of big posts, you get several little ones. But really there's not alot that's going on lately. I did get my cell phone problem resolved. I just bit the bullet and bought one. Didn't want to, we're still saving for vacation. I also have an appointment with a psychiatrist at the end of the month for my add. I can't fake being able to handle it. Ask Carrie. I'm a wreck. I guess it's a guy thing not wanting to admit you can't handle something. Really looking forward to vacation. Not looking forward to being 29 in August. That's almost 30. But at least I know my sis in law is right behind me and I can laugh at her. :-) Anyway, if you want to know what's up, see twitter. :-)

Who's your Laban?

2008-06-24T21:30:00.003-04:00

Lately I've been into the Message. I like it's plain spokenness and its frankness. So I've been reading the NT in my NKJV Life Application Bible b/c it explains the customs, etc. of the day and the OT in the Message. I've taken more from Genesis lately than I ever have, alot because you can read several chapters at a time, and you don't feel like you're studying for an exam.
Anyway, I was reading about Laban and Jacob today. Wow, what a man had to do for a wife. Especially when Laban kept changing the rules. Do we have anyone in our lives, that when we try and play their rules for something we really want, thinking we've reached the goal, and have the rules changed?
Is it worth it? Jacob ended up telling Laban off, and leaving with his daughters and grandchildren, and potentially seeing a brother who might kill him. I know God told him to go, but can you imagine what was going through Jacob's mind? All he wanted was what his father told him to do. He spent fourteen years of his life getting it.
I think it's worth evaluating my life and seeking out people who don't have my best interests at heart, who want to accomplish their goals more than anything else, and walking away. God's still going to bless me.

My Phone

2008-06-14T14:51:00.007-04:00

So yeah, my phone broke last week. The fault is apparently divided between the one who threw, and the one who did'nt catch. Anyway, I bought a reconditioned one off ebay on tuesday. The guy put in the mail wednesday, and I paid for 2-3 day shipping. But as of today, I don't have it. How can I twitter without a phone? Or call people? Hope it gets here monday. The thing that ticks me off is that I paid $11.00 for express shipping. Wonder if there's a snowball's chance of a refund? I can't even tell time. I haven't worn a watch in God knows when. Where is that thing anyway?

Dang...

2008-05-28T15:15:00.001-04:00

Not funny but kinda... Woman killed her husband because he took the Lord's name in vain.

In Love

2008-05-25T22:00:00.002-04:00

Since my new job started, I've felt more like baking and such. I hate cookbooks, (be honest, you never read them) but allrecipes.com is the site to go to. Here's why.

1. Out of something? If you don't have say flour, you can put it in the
"don't want" slot and it will find the ones that don't require it. Very cool.

2.Don't need enough recipe for 20 or 60 etc.? You can adjust the servings and it will reconfigure the recipe for you!

3. lots of sub categories and they also search other sites for you.

4. Comments. People that have tried the recipe can leave a comment on what they thought of it. Good or bad.

There you have it. I'm not the best cook, so I take all the help I can get.

Wow

2008-05-21T10:53:00.008-04:00

I've been reading Perry's notes from the Purpose Driven Church Summit. Wow. One of my favorites was-
"Every church caters to somebody. If you don’t believe me–change your music style next week. A church either caters to selfish church people or either those who don’t know Christ."
My thought is this- maybe hymns are cool for some people, but they really don't do anything for unchurched people.
No, I don't really like hymns. :-)

Come in the house

2008-05-21T10:45:00.003-04:00

Perry's message Sunday was awesome. He taught from the prodigal son parable. But focused on the other brother. He was out in the field, working, when he should have been inside concerned with the heart of the father. How many people, churches, organizations, etc. are out in the field when they need to come in the house and seek the heart of God? Got problems? Issues? Come in the house.

Just Because...

2008-05-18T21:55:00.004-04:00

Frickin' Weird

2008-05-16T20:26:00.002-04:00

I don't know how this works, but it does.

Love My Pastor

2008-05-13T21:57:00.002-04:00

He's nuts. Read this entry from today. Here

Rainbow Falls

2008-05-12T16:57:00.003-04:00

Here's the pics I promised. My camera phone isn't the best in the world, but I forgot my other one.

Last Week

2008-05-11T07:51:00.007-04:00

I'm liking my new job.

Got pulled over, ticketed for no seat belt. Cheaper than speeding ticket. ALOT.

In church, Perry asked everyone how many speeding tickets we'd had.
I can't remember. Is that bad? I'm pretty sure its less than 10.

Being in receiving, I'm closer to the coffee pot. That can be a bad thing.

Physical last week was bogus. Keep me waiting for 45 min, check my breathing, and schedule me an appt. to come back next week for lab work.

Started twittering. (look to the right) It's cool how the little things can be interesting.

Saw a sign in Easley that read Plant N' Pot Nursery. Someone didn't think that one through all the way.

Finally fixed the computer so I can listen to itunes. I hate silence.

Trying a new coffee, Komodo Dragon. It's pretty good. Cheesy name, but good.

Went hiking with a guy from work. Rainbow Falls in Jones Gap. I'll post some pics in a few days.

Found a hose for my pressure washer. It's only been like a year. Thats what happens when you buy new brands. Replacement parts are a witch to find.

Enjoying mine and Carrie's weekly outing to Starbucks. I LOVE having one in Clemson.
Not as crowded as you might think.

Jinxed!

2008-05-08T13:09:00.004-04:00

Yep this was NOT my fault. Sunday, the family was talkin' about my driving, and I had to say I haven't been pulled over in a long time. Yes, this is only a warning, but this could have been avoided. If you don't make me say it, it won't happen.:)

New Job part 2

2008-05-06T14:25:00.006-04:00

Three days on the new job. Here's what I've learned.

1. I take better notes than I did in school. Guess when you're job depends on it, you're more motivated. (15 pages so far I think)

2. I only have one week to learn this, not two as I was originally informed.

3. Basically, I'm a bookkeeper. I keep up with bills and send them in for payment.

4. Corporate loves paperwork. Even my paperwork has paperwork.

5. Vendors can be lazy or sneaky, but most of them are cool.

Last but not least, a view of my little corner of the world:

Gotta Say Something

2008-05-03T22:15:00.004-04:00

O.K. this is old news, but I just want to add my thoughts. And only MY thoughts. Read this.
So, by condemning people, they hope they will come to Jesus? Idiots. What they say and what they do are two totally different things. You can't call the girl on stage a whore and expect her to ask you how she can have a relationship with Jesus. Why not just ask if they are going to church anywhere? No. Let's hold signs that say idolaters will not enter heaven. Pharisees. Religious nuts. When is the last time anyone actually read a tract? They re something cheap church people leave a dollar in at a restaurant after treating the waitress like dirt, and say you're doing God's will. Whens the last time you shared your faith, instead of handing them a tract and running away? Taking an opportunity to save souls? So you're replacing God now? That's quite a statement. Cowards. You are even scared to say which church you're from. How are people supposed to come to you if you're too scared to tell them about your church? Maybe you don't want your country club with a steeple overcrowded. Heaven will be very crowded just in case you make it. What if people came to your church, and protested dresses, suits and outdated hymns? They're just exercising their rights hmm? I believe the real christians would have an easier time showing the way to Christ if you would shut up and sit down. No wonder so many people don't want anything to do with God. They think he's just like you waiting to judge and condemn. O.K. I'm through. Had to say something worth being attacked for.

New Job

2008-04-30T09:33:00.001-04:00

Well, a new position anyway. I'm still with Publix, I'm just moving from deli to receiving. Same store, same money, better job. Basically, I'm only going to be dealing with vendors and other associates. And I have a set schedule. 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and I'm off every Wed and Sun. So if you come in the store, you won't see me. I've been in the deli for a long time, there aren't alot of people I'm going to miss working with since the crew turns over a few times a year.

Here are some other things I won't miss

1. Hairnets (seriously, I SHAVE MY HEAD)
2. Stupid Customers (I know they're everywhere, I just won't have them by the 100's)
3. Slicing Meat and Cheese (No, I can't slice it any thinner)
4. Frying Chicken (I haven't eaten fried chicken in years)
5. Being Burned and or Cut ( you'd be surprised how dangerous kitchens are)

Don't get me wrong, I've had alot of fun in the deli, but I've gotten to the point I don't like people anymore, and I can't be an effective tool for Christ if I can't stand the sight of them. That's what working with the public does to you after a while. ( Just a little insight)
I'm sure there some things I will miss, But that's another post. It's time for Holmes on Homes.

Day Off

2008-04-23T20:25:00.003-04:00

I had the day off and decided to go to the pickens flea market, just to get out for a while. Loved the weather and took my time getting there. Noticed things I usually miss, like an old trailer with a chimney. The flea market was packed. Didn't buy much, but enjoyed getting some sun, seeing as how winter has left me albino :-) But I would caution anyone who goes not to buy shrimp from the back of someones truck, or buy chocolate sitting in the sun. (Neither of which I did). Got much needed yard work done, trash taken off, and vegged the rest of the day.

Does this happen to anyone else?

2008-04-22T08:50:00.004-04:00

Poor Guy

2008-04-22T08:48:00.001-04:00

read this on carlos' blog today.

Hilarious

2008-04-21T18:26:00.006-04:00

This is worth 1:16 of your day, I promise.

I Don't Know What To Say...

2008-04-13T17:40:00.011-04:00

I read this today,and honestly, can't these people find something else to do with their degrees?

CLEMSON -- It's no joke: Birth control for squirrels is the goal of a new Clemson University research project that's no laughing matter for property owners losing trees.

Graduate students will be testing two types of contraceptives to try to control the gray squirrel population.

Our landscape crews are about on wits end on what to do. We've had over 100 trees killed, said Greg Yarrow, a Clemson wildlife ecology professor.

At least 100 more trees and shrubs have been severely damaged by the gnawing little critters.
This may be a tool to keep numbers down, and could be an alterative to trapping or shooting in other urban areas with squirrel problems, Yarrow said.

One contraceptive being tested on campus permanently sterilizes the squirrels.

The other renders them infertile for about four months. It will be tested in Clemson's Experimental Forest at feeding stations placed out of reach of other animals and capped at night to prevent consumption by nocturnal flying squirrels, Yarrow said.

Researchers want to find out if it works, if the cost is economical, and if it is socially acceptable in certain situations.

You have to weigh biological economic and social factors, Yarrow said.

The Clemson campus, where there are few predators to control the squirrel population, has an estimated 12 squirrels per acre. Optimal habitat support is about one to five squirrels per acre, Yarrow said.

True

2008-04-10T09:36:00.004-04:00

I've been reading a new blog "Stuff Christians Like" and ran across tid bit this morning.

#134. Witnessing to people that don't believe in the Bible using the Bible.

This one is just cuckoo, but I promise it happens. I have some friends that if you open the door to hear about God or Jesus or Faith with them will immediately turn to the Bible to prove that all of the three mentioned subjects are true and good and worth giving your life to. The problem is that some people just don't believe in the Bible. At all. So here is what those conversations tend to look like:

Christian friend:
"It's a cliche to see it on sings at football games, but the message of John 3:16 is still a gift that holds true for all of us."

Non Christian friend:
"That's cool, but I don't believe in the Bible."

Christian friend:
"What do you mean? Which part?"

Non Christian friend:
"The words part."

Christian friend:
"What?"

Non Christian friend:
"I don't believe in it. I don't think it's the word of God or some sort of holy truth."

Christian friend:
(Awkward silence.) "OK, but in Romans it says ..."

Clearly this isn't how all my friends or all Christians are. But, if your Bible is the only outward expression or explanation of your faith then the minute you meet someone that does not believe in it you've hit a serious wall. It's like trying to tell someone that lived their whole life in the desert how deep the ocean is and how many animals live in it. They don't even believe in the concept of salt water, never mind the miracle of oceanic life. You've got to live it. You have to be the ocean and express your life in such a way that even if all they've seen are sandstorms for the last twenty years, when they're around you, they can't help but start to hear the waves.

Such Is My Life...

2008-04-08T16:10:00.004-04:00

alt="Serious ADHD Likely!" width="200"
height="90" border="0">

I thought everyone was like this. :)

Deer Butt Doorbell

2008-04-03T22:08:00.001-04:00

I wonder if Carrie would go for this?

Make Me Think

2008-04-03T11:14:00.003-04:00

Lately I've been into Linkin Park. Heard a song that makes me think about why we're in this. especially since I have a brother over there. Do we even know why we're there anymore?

"Hands Held High"

Turn my mike up louder I got to say something
Light weights step to the side when we come in

Feel it in your chest the syllables get pumping
People on the street they panic and start running

Words on loose leaf sheet complete coming
I jump in my mind and summon the rhyme, I'm dumping

Healing the blind I promise to let the sun in
Sick of the dark ways we march to the drum and

Jump when they tell us that they wanna see jumping
**** that I wanna see some fists pumping

Risk something, take back what's yours
Say something that you know they might attack you for

Cause I'm sick of being treated like I have before
Like it's stupid standing for what I'm standing for

Like this war's really just a different brand of war
Like it doesn't cater the rich and abandon poor

Like they understand you in the back of the jet
When you can't put gas in your tank

These ****ers are laughing their way to the bank and cashing the cheque
Asking you to have compassion and have some respect

For a leader so nervous in an obvious way
Stuttering and mumbling for nightly news to replay

And the rest of the world watching at the end of the day
In their living room laughing like "what did he say?"

[Chorus:]
Amen
Amen
Amen
Amen
Amen

In my living room watching but I am not laughing
Cause when it gets tense I know what might happen

World is cold the bold men take action
Have to react or get blown into fractions

Ten years old it's something to see
Another kid my age drugged under a jeep

Taken and bound and found later under a tree
I wonder if he had thought the next one could be me

Do you see the soldiers they're out today
They brush the dust from bullet proof vests away

It's ironic at times like this you pray
But a bomb blew the mosque up yesterday

There's bombs in the buses, bikes, roads
Inside your market, your shops, your clothes

My dad he's got a lot of fear I know
But enough pride inside not to let that show

My brother had a book he would hold with pride
A little red cover with a broken spine

On the back, he hand-wrote a quote inside
When the rich wage war it's the poor who die

Meanwhile, the leader just talks away
Stuttering and mumbling for nightly news to replay

And the rest of the world watching at the end of the day
both scared and angry like "what did he say?"

[Chorus x6]

[x6]
With hands held high into the sky so blue,
As the ocean opens up to swallow you.

Things I'll Never tell My Kids. ( I Hope)

2008-03-29T22:37:00.003-04:00

- This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you. (Yeah..I never believed that)

-You're cruisin for a bruisin' (Right)

-You're walking on thin ice; egg shells (huh?)

-I'm counting to three. (So parents can count...)

-I'm going to give you an attitude adjustment. (Seriously..)

-I brought you into this world, and I can take you out!

And last but not least,

-The Point. When parents get so mad all they can do is point at you. I never understood that one.

Just a Thought...

2008-03-22T08:28:00.002-04:00

I have been listening to a new (to me) cd lately.I'm always finding cool cd's in our house. Carrie has awesome taste in music. Anyway, there was one song that I was looking for probably the reason for the purchase, and I kept repeating it over and over. I've listened to every song before it, but not any after it. Then this morning, I let it go on. The rest of the cd is just as awesome.

Then it hit me. How many times in my walk with God do I stay there, enjoying the same thing over and over again. But when I let God move me ahead, the next thing is just as awesome. A walk with God is constantly moving ahead. What are we missing out on by staying put?

Who'd of thought...

2008-03-18T09:18:00.006-04:00

Captain Kangaroo passed away on January 23, 2004, age 76, which is odd, because he always looked to be 76. (DOB: 6/27/27 )

Some people have been a bit offended that the actor, Lee Marvin, who is buried in a grave alongside 3- and 4-star generals at Arlington National Cemetery . His marker gives his name, rank (PVT) and service (USMC). Nothing else. Here's a guy who was only a famous movie star who served his time, why the heck does he rate burial with these guys? Well, following is the amazing answer:

He won the Navy Cross at Iwo Jima . There is only one higher Naval award... the Medal Of Honor!

If that is a surprising comment on the true character of the man, he credits his sergeant with an even greater show of bravery.

Dialog from 'The Tonight Show with Johnn y Carson' : His guest was Lee Marvin. Johnny said, 'Lee, I'll bet a lot of people are unaware that you were a Marine in the initial landing at Iwo Jima .and that during the course of that action you earned the Navy Cross and were severely wounded.'

'Yeah, yeah... I got shot square in the bottom and they gave me the Cross for securing a hot spot about halfway up Suribachi. Bad thing about getting shot up on a mountain is guys getting shot hauling you down. But, Johnny, at Iwo I served under the bravest man I ever knew... We both got the Cross the same day, but what he did for his Cross made mine look cheap in comparison. That dumb guy actually stood up on Red beach and directed his troops to move forward and get the hell off the beach. Bullets flying by, with mortar rounds landing everywhere and he stood there as the main target of gunfire so that he could get his men to safety. He did this on more than one occasion because his men's safety was more important than his own life.

That Sergeant and I have been lifelong friends. When they brought me off Suribachi we passed the Sergeant and he lit a smoke and passed it to me, lying on my belly on the litter and said, 'Where'd they get you Lee?' 'Well Bob... if you make it home before me, tell Mom to sell the outhouse!'
Johnny, I'm not lying, Sergeant Keeshan was the bravest man I ever knew.
The Sergeant's name is Bob Keeshan.

That's My Name

2008-03-17T19:21:00.003-04:00

Today I got a question I haven't had in a while. "is your name really robin?" Idiot. I told him yes and made eye contact so he knew any more questions would warrant a beating. All through school and life I've had that one. I have my dad to thank for it. Apparently he was a fan of this guy. People ask how It feels having a "girls' name, and I tell them like Johnny Cash's song "A Boy Named Sue". But that's life. There are worse things I suppose.

600,000 Mile Mustang

2008-03-17T18:29:00.005-04:00

You gotta see this. I think the woman is funnier than the story.

You're Kidding, Right?

2008-03-15T08:54:00.002-04:00

London pads lampposts to protect texting pedestrians
Wed Mar 5, 2008 11:21PM EST
Buzz up!on Yahoo!

This is too funny so I just have to share. A recent study by 118 118 found that one in ten people can't text and walk. One street in particular called Brick Lane in London was found to have the highest number of 'walking and texting' injuries in the country, so a charity called Living Streets is launching—get this—a padded lamppost program.

According to ITN, the program would allegedly wrap-up the nation's lamppost to protect inattentive pedestrians from hurting themselves when they're too busy texting on their phone. Brick Lane will be the first to launch a pilot program, and if successful, the padded lamppost concept will be launched in Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool.

Oh Yeah

2008-03-08T23:13:00.001-05:00

76%

Knowing When To Give Up

2008-02-28T18:20:00.005-05:00

We have a guy at work, been with us a little over a year now. In his thirties, wife, kid. You think this guy would want to work as hard as he could to provide for his family, but his main goal is to be fired so he can collect unemployment. No aspiration to move up, make full time status, or try another department. They just cut him down to 4 or 5 hours a week, and wait on him to quit. I've tried to encourage him, get him more hours, help him find another job, anything to try and help the guy. He's stopped caring. Our last conversation ended with "I'd rather be sitting at home on the couch." Why would I care so much? I don't really know. Maybe I realize his potential, or maybe I feel for his family. The wife doesn't want to work either, as I understand it. He's a great guy. Just lazy, I guess. I hate that I can't help the guy, but Mom has always said "You can't help anyone that wont help themselves". I told my manager today that scheduling him with me isn't working. So I guess next week he'll go from 20 hours back to 5. I believe this is the reason I don't get too attached to people at work.

Wow

2008-02-19T22:58:00.003-05:00

I read this on Steven Furticks blog today. It's worth sharing.

One tension I face daily as a leader is:
How do I enforce a standard of excellence for those I lead…
While still allocating the freedom for them to make mistakes?

Here’s one insight that has given me some clarity lately:
I don’t mind those I lead making mistakes. In fact, I prefer it. If they’re not making mistakes, they’re probably not playing to win.

I just want you to make new mistakes. Different mistakes than you made last time. Mistakes that reveal a new level of effort, or a new frontier of endeavor.

Most leaders don’t mind mistakes. They just can’t stand to see the same mistakes over…and over…and over again. Mistakes are fine (even mandatory) as long as we’re cruising down the open highway. But they make me car sick if we’re simply circling the cul-de-sac.

Why??

2008-02-18T19:44:00.005-05:00

Last night I bought some new socks and noticed the bag read "Resealable Bag". Why would I want to reseal my bag of socks? To keep them fresh?

crazy endcap

2008-02-18T08:22:00.002-05:00

Ok, many of you may not understand the stupidity of this, but when you work in grocery, certain things just stick out. This is a wine and juicy juice display.
Two things that obviously don't go together.

Death of a TV

2008-02-15T19:29:00.003-05:00

Yep, tragedy struck us today. I turned the tv on this morning and went to check our e-mail, then it got really quiet. When I got in the living room, the tv had died. So I spent my day online, in anderson, central and easley. At sears in easley, they had a great deal on a 27" flat tube with a digital tuner. We thought about flat screens, but we have plans for our tax returns this year. The only problem; the entertainment center measured 28" by 24"; the tv measured 30" by 23" :-|. So we also got to buy a new entertainment center. But this entertainment center will work when we do buy a flat screen. But the tv is really nice and 50% off was nice too. Thank God for emergency funds. Those of us that remember the old tv knew it had lived a full life.

P.S. Does Anyone need an entertainment center?

I'ts Finally Over

2008-02-13T08:11:00.004-05:00

I've been waiting through the rumors, and yes, the strike is over. See which shows are coming back and when here.

Lol Dogs?

2008-02-08T19:58:00.000-05:00

see more cute puppies and funny loldog pictures

You will laugh until you cry. Here.

Day Off

2008-02-08T19:17:00.000-05:00

Had the day off. Went for a hike in Keowee Toxaway Park. They have two trails there, Raven Rock and Natural Bridge. Since I didn't have my day pack, I opted for the shorter Natural Bridge Trail. Here are some pics.

Question of the Day

2008-02-02T22:47:00.000-05:00

Why are there so many churches in our community, and still so much poverty?

Crap!!!

2008-01-30T11:20:00.000-05:00

Try this. Like seriously, why can't I do this? By the way, if you aren't reading this blog, you should be.

Anyone going to the Super Bowl?

2008-01-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

Check this out.

Hmmm....

2008-01-24T20:42:00.000-05:00

What Robin Means

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life.
You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you.
At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself.

You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous.
You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things.
Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.
You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.
You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

We've Converted

2008-01-21T10:40:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, Carrie and I bought some cfl's. We've been surprised. When you compare the light to a regular bulb, its very white. Our other bulbs look yellow in comparison. The thing you have to look for though, is lumen's, not watts. I bought 60 watt, 800 lumen bulbs. Three of those in our living room, and you could mistake it for an operating room. Wow. I think we'll step down on the lumen's for the rest of the house. I'm just glad I didn't buy the 840 lumen's. I do like them though, we also have a lamp in the living room, and one bulb is enough to watch TV by, and if they make our power bill come down, that's cool too.

One More Window

2008-01-15T09:24:00.001-05:00

Yep, that is our new kitchen window. We had some extra this week, and I had yesterday off, so I dropped by Lowes and picked one up. Took about 20 minutes and I saved $100.00 by doing it myself. We've been replacing our windows one or two at a time, and we're almost done. We only have two more to go. Yesterday Carrie and I also went to the mall to spend her gift card, and I went to Appalachian Outfitters to spend mine. I am the proud owner of a new lightweight mess kit. On a sad note, Bombay in the mall is going out of business. Today is their last day. They are having a 70% off sale, but there's hardly anything left. Carrie did see a queen size down comforter for $25.00 so we got it. We should have gotten one years ago. I have never been so warm without being hot and miserable.

Lately

2008-01-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I had the day off and decided to go for a hike. It was in the 60's and I've put on a few holiday pounds and I figured I had no excuse. I went to Old Pickens Church, Oconee Station, and Station Cove Falls. I am out of shape, but after seeing a few other "hikers",I realized that I could be in worse shape. The church and Oconee Station were cool, but the lack of rain reduced the falls to a trickle. Last night at church was cool, we started a new series called "crank it up" and I realized that I need to spend more time with God. So I'm going to spend a few minutes every morning reading and praying. The mornings work better for me, even though I'm having a hard time convincing myself of that early in the morning. I'm also off today (don't envy me, I'll have to work 6 days to pay for it) along with Carrie, so this will be a good day to clean house, if there is such a thing. I also have about 2 months of garbage to haul off, and Shaunes truck does need the exercise. TTFN.

Charleston Pics

2008-01-05T12:13:00.000-05:00

Each year, Carrie and I like to spend our anniversary in Charleston. This year, We stayed in Isle of Palms and visited Boone Hall Plantation. Here are are some pics.

Keeping in Touch

2008-01-01T09:21:00.000-05:00

Its a new year. Wow. This year I get to keep up with my Brother on the other side of the world. Hes in Kabul, Afghanistan, for ten months or so. Were trying to get some supplies to him now. They have a military store, (PX) that they can get some things, but not others. He told me he couldn't get a lamp, or a tape measure, but he can get a 32 inch TV. I don't understand it either. I think my Brother and I are going to set up an exchange. They have a varied market for rugs, antiques, etc. So this should be an interesting year. I wish the sun would dry my yard today, Jack is getting cabin fever.

I read this today and thought I'd share.

2007-12-31T08:28:00.000-05:00

If you could shrink the world to 100 people-keeping the same ratios-there would be...

51 women and 49 men
58 Asians, 13Europeans, 15 from the Americas, and 14 Africans
50% of the wealth in the hands of 6 people-all from the U.S.
50 malnourished
80 living in substandard housing
70 illiterates
1 with a college degree
Not one with a computer

Back in Touch

2007-12-26T18:30:00.000-05:00

Its been a while since our computer gave us the "black screen of death" But between a portion of my Christmas bonus and our in-laws, we replaced our computer. The wife's excited, (its an electronics thing she gets from her dad.) and I'm glad to be reading blogs and news again. Not alot here though. Lost my cat. Some redneck ran her over and threw her in my front yard. So lately I'm content to let my dog bark without any objections from me :) Yes its immature, but it makes me feel better. I'd had that cat for ten years. Work, ugh I'm glad to see the holidays over. People get rude and stupid. Alot more than usual. Our store manager is retiring after 20 years, citing he couldn't take the public anymore, it makes me wonder how long I can take it.
Read Lloyd's blog today,I feel that pain. I rented my aunts trailer for a while. Wouldn't do it again for anything. Late rent, fixing junk they break, and evict them, oh God, they tear the place apart. Some of my favorites were a creditor for furniture, and a phone account. Didn't think they would ever go away. Sure, there are good people out there, but I didn't meet very many of them. Best of luck. Well that's enough for now. TTFN.

Lately

2007-10-10T11:28:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I know its been a while. Seriously, I don't have alot going on. Here's whats new.

Installed a new toilet in the half bath. Bathroom almost done.

Got a great deal on a new range hood and installed it.

Need to relabel breaker box. Someone has bad sense of humor. (kitchen breaker wasn't kitchen breaker.)

Wife informed me I have a "reflex yawn" when I hear a hymnal. Funny.

Replaced spark plugs in car. And leaking valve cover gasket. Took me long enough.

Back hurt for the rest of the day.

Need to figure out where dog is getting out of backyard. Hes too smart for his own good.

Got a new puzzle to work on at the in-laws. This one may kick my rear end.

Really focused on budget. Want to pay off car before other one dies.

That's about it. TTFN

Local Scenery

2007-09-08T08:53:00.000-04:00

Its almost fall!! Cant wait to be hiking again. Thought Id share pics of some cool places. They're from Cowpens Battlefield, Station Cove Falls, Lake Jocassee, and Table Rock, I think. I have mountain Pics, but being in the blue ridge, the blue haze is all you can see. If you're looking for somewhere to hike, try sctrails

Spiritually Speaking...

2007-09-06T19:25:00.000-04:00

Its been really exhausting for me lately. Haven't felt like doing a whole lot physically, (the heat mainly) but mentally Ive been stretched by blogs entries like this and this . Some serious stuff. We really have to step back and examine why we believe what we believe sometimes. I was reading in John and I realized that its been smooth sailing lately. Too smooth. Don't get me wrong, I love a hassle free existence as much as the next guy, but as a follower of Christ, am I where Satan wants me? When was the last time I stood out and said that's wrong? Cant remember. Ive had opportunities, Ive just sat back and let it go, for the sake of my own peace. I think my biggest fear are theologians, people who have a P.H.D. on their position. I cant speak for every one, but I don't like looking stupid and giving their ego a boost. But maybe if I spent more time in the Bible, that wouldn't be an issue. But the time I have spent has told me I can afford to be a little more bold. TTFN.

Lately

2007-08-25T18:00:00.000-04:00

Well lately I've been getting back into the work groove after vacation. Seven straight days. :/ took my cat to the vet for an eye infection, she'll be fine, just some expensive ointment to fix her up. Stretched the green thumb Thursday and finally put some plants in the planter on the front porch. We'll see how that goes. Going to spend some B-Day money soon. If they let me out of work, that is. Celebrated the big 28. Thirties right around the corner. My only consolation is that my sister law is right behind me.:-) More later. Maybe I'll show off my spiffy new plants.

Umm, yeah...

2007-08-25T17:58:00.001-04:00

You Are a Boston Terrier Puppy

Aggressive, wild, and rambunctious.

Deep down, you're just a cuddle monster.

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

Vacation Pics

2007-08-19T21:54:00.000-04:00

From the Hotel. It used to be a train station.

They outfitted some of the cars to be hotel rooms.

Our building.

View from Rock City.

Ruby Falls.

Tennessee River from the aquarium.

They let these things roam free at the zoo.

The lovely wife.

Chattanooga from the river boat.

I cannot describe the hell this computer gave me for these pics. :-)

Ha Ha

2007-08-16T11:43:00.001-04:00

Take that Melissa :)I AM 66% OPTIMUS PRIME

Take the Transformers Quiz

VACATION!

2007-08-14T19:03:00.000-04:00

That's where we've been for the last week. Really enjoyed Chattanooga. Everything but the heat. I think it got up to 105 once. We stayed at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Sounds silly but we got a really good deal from hotwire.com (highly recommend this site, we got a $170.00 room for $57.00). We hit the aquarium,zoo, rock city, ruby falls, and everything else on the city's website, I think. And a dinner cruise. Thought it would be cheesy, but we enjoyed it. The funniest thing that happened that week was the Shriner's checking in for a convention on Thursday. We got back from the movies, and they had Hank Williams blasting from the pool area, we got to the room and couldn't hear the TV. From three floors up. As I picked up the phone, I looked at Carrie and said, how weird is this? A 27 year old man calling the front desk on a bunch of 60 year olds because their music is too loud. Funny stuff. Stay tuned. Pictures probably coming. Depends on the mood of the computer.

Dads Prayer Box

2007-07-27T13:27:00.000-04:00

Ever seen one of these? My dad used to write down prayers on slips of paper and put them in this box, and then prayed over the box. Its like a piggy bank for prayers. I ran across it the other night while looking for some of Dads gold prospecting books for a guy at work who wanted to borrow them. When I picked it up, one of the slips of paper came out of the top. Carrie told me they were private, but I figured most people would love to know how their parents prayed. So I shook the box until all the papers came out. Prayers for friends, brothers and sisters, his Mom. A few stuck out. "Dad to get healed". His Dad. God answered that one. He passed away in 98'. Some times that's the best healing. Another one was "The Church to grow". A little mountain church His Dad started a long time ago. The only one any of us ever went to there. I don't know if that one came true. I haven't been back in a long time. Another read,"Donna to get saved". My Mom. Even though they were divorced since 1980 and didn't hardly speak for ten more, He didn't hold anything against her. He cared about where she was going to spend eternity. Mom has told Dad and I many times she forgave him. The last one floored me. Literally, I had to sit on the floor. It read, "Robin to come Home". Apparently I wasn't the only one who thought I should have seen him more. I'm not dwelling on it, but it reminds me, Am I spending enough time with the people I love? Its amazing that in knowing someones prayers, you can learn more about a person, and learn from them. I learned that Dads family and friends were important enough for him to pray for them when they weren't doing well. Even above his own healing. There wasn't one prayer for his own healing even though he was going through so much pain and waiting for a transplant. Wow. Now that I'm done, Ill put the prayers back in the box, and leave it out to remind me whats really important in life. Not me first but my family and friends. I don't think Dad cared if I read his prayers. Maybe he wanted me to. A Fathers last lesson to his Son about life, I guess.

My Music

2007-07-20T17:55:00.000-04:00

I'm here listening to some cool 90s hits, and cant help wondering, Someday my kids will listen to this . Currently I'm listening to 'Sex and Candy' by Marcy Playground. This isn't Elvis and Patsy Cline. You can say don't listen to it, but I really enjoy it. Can a parent really be hypocritical about this? Makes you think. and laugh. For now. Any comments?

Bub-Bub

2007-07-20T09:39:00.000-04:00

I mean my brother Shaune. (that's what he called me when he first learned to talk.) I was thinking about him this morning, as I cranked his truck that's in my driveway.(Hes at boot camp.) I can't believe this kid has grown up on me! Theres nine years between us. I remember changing his diapers, watching him take his first steps, say his first words. Wow! I'm remembering alot about him. Hes taking karate, reading physics books for fun. Hes really smart. Too smart, sometimes. Ill be the first to tell you hes not your average teenager, hes not perfect. But who's sister, husband, (fill in the blank) is? I was talking to him before he left, hes wanting to go to college take classes on things I cant pronounce. He hasn't figured everything in life out, but he will.

2007-07-09T23:01:00.000-04:00

This has been an interesting night. Ive taken two quizzes, and I didnt think I was this evil. I was trying to prove the opposite, actually. Oh well. The other survey was right though.

2007-07-09T22:59:00.000-04:00

You Are 62% Evil

You are very evil. And you're too evil to care.
Those who love you probably also fear you. A lot.

How Evil Are You?

2007-07-09T22:25:00.001-04:00

The Part of You That No One Sees

You are wise, insightful, and brilliant.Your wit is sharp and occasionally hurtful...Revealing your scorn for people with less intelligence.
Underneath it all, you feel burdened by the stupidity of humanity.You know what's right in the world, but it's overshadowed by everything that's wrong.People see you as arrogant. While this is partially true, you are also very sensitive.

What's" the Part of You That No One Sees?

Lazy Saturday

2007-06-30T15:50:00.000-04:00

Yep, just another lazy Saturday. Too hot to camp or hike, nothing on TV. That's most of my Saturdays. Most would love the chance for it. Cant travel far, (were saving for vacation) Why is there nothing on TV? Are they encouraging you to get out? Its not all bad. I could be working. Carries off too. So we get some time together. Cant wait for fall, when the weather lets me go back outside. Well, I'm caught up on my blog reading, so I'm going to rummage through some DVDs maybe even videotapes.

The silence is killing me!!

2007-06-24T21:13:00.000-04:00

As some people know, I hate silence. Seriously. I listen to music all day and night long. I sleep to it, (my wife hates it) I wake up to it, I listen to it at work, and used to listen to it in the car. Used to. The radio in our car has been acting up by cutting off and just like feedback through the speakers. It gets worse as it gets hotter. So, yeah, silence in the car. Cant stand it. Even in my quiet time theres a radio or TV playing in the next room. My wife suggested that we take the stereo we bought for the Toyota and put in the cavalier. The Toyota's on the last leg anyway, why let a perfectly good kenwood be traded in with her? That's not something I want to tackle, so very soon I will be finding someone to do the transplant. That's it for now, Its too quiet in here.

Pens

2007-06-15T09:48:00.000-04:00

Sitting in church Sunday, I was about to put my pen in my mouth when I remembered, this isn't mine, I got this at the door with my outline. Then I thought, where have these been? How many people have handled these? People who might be sick? Working with food, and being educated on germs and illnesses, Ive become a bit of a germ phobe. Now I realize my church cant disinfect thousands of pens, But it is food for thought.

What to blog...

2007-06-08T17:49:00.000-04:00

Did you ever want to blog, but don't have anything to say? I'm doing that now. Haven't blogged in a while, But I want to. Its not that my life is uneventful, just this week the fridge died, I finished a ten day, 60(?) hour work week, and my dog is acting out really bad. He broke his lead, went for a run in the creek, my brother caught him and put him in the bathroom until we got home. There he got mud on the floor, walls, cabinets, vandalized the door, and tore up a huge chunk of vinyl floor. No, life has been very eventful, I'm just too tired to blog about it. Ttfn.

Dad

2007-05-26T20:08:00.000-04:00

As most people know, I lost mine a couple of years ago. With fathers day coming up, hes been on my mind more than usual. I spent some time today in the spare room in our house, looking at things he left me. I was thinking, man, if I just had more time with him. But not knowing he would die, would I? I just remember him calling me, saying "I haven't heard from you in a while son, I was just wondering how you were." I was trying to start my life, mom and dad didn't seem that important at the time. Regrets, right? I don't usually worry about things I cant change, but that one bothers me. Its just time. Theres always time. I spent so much of it hating him for beating me, talking down to me, naming me Robin. But deep down, I know he loved me, even if he never said it. Something awesome happened in 95. I became a Jesus follower. Through Him I forgave dad. Even more awesome, a couple of years later, he became one. We had an "nonverbal" understanding he was sorry and he loved me. Then his liver disease set in a few years ago, and suddenly I realized there was no more time. I had to travel to Virginia to spend time with him. He got worse. My later visits were spent in the hospital with him and my stepmother, watching him and cleaning him. I can hardly bear to think of it right now. All my time was spent on me, all I had to do was go see him, but I was busy. so I had to settle on the time in the hospital. I remember him looking at me one day, saying, "I'm proud of you, and I love you." Something he probably have said a long time ago had I made time for him. Then, I got the death bed call. Ive never driven so fast in my life. He couldn't talk so I did. I told him I loved him, and I forgave him. He died the next day. Carrie was with me, I told her to spend all the time she could with her mom and dad, because you don't have forever. I was 24. I also spend more time with mom, who lives in the same town. I'm thankful for her dad, who hasn't missed a beat. He loves me like one of his own, even scolding me when he has to. And her mom. My lesson? What hurt is worth holding on to?

Cleaning Out

2007-05-17T10:18:00.000-04:00

Lately, Carrie and I have been cleaning out our attic. I was blown away at how much junk two people can accumulate in three years. Wedding gifts, the stuff people put off on you that you don't know what to do with, and a couple of boxes from where we moved but never unpacked. Those were especially fun. Two of mine were from when I moved down from Virginia in 95'. Alot of that went to the trash. If you haven't used it in 12 years, you re probably not going to. Then were like, what about the rest of the house? So it looks like yard sale time. Mostly my junk. I have a bad habit of rat packing and buying something because I knew it was worth more than someone was asking for it. Stupid, I know. I have alot of stuff that I don't like, but its worth something. If not yard sale, then EBay. We've got to get rid of stuff. Wish us luck.

Ha Ha

2007-05-09T17:42:00.000-04:00

I love my wife. She found this pic (look to the right ->), thought of me, and made it our wallpaper. A pic only an add could love.

Getting Better

2007-05-05T11:19:00.000-04:00

Its about time. I hate being sick. Ive spent the last month it seems, getting over this. And licking some spiritual wounds as well. I recently let go of trying to get a promotion at work. Come to find out, I neglected to see what God wanted. We fought, I lost. All I could think about was, Ive put alot into this. Coming in on my days off, trying to know the right people, studying books and testing, volunteering for projects, putting up with tons of junk from people. Gods like yeah, but its not what I want you to do. You've wasted two years. What can you do? Laugh. But the last couple of weeks have been so cool. It was like a weight, Keeping me depressed, ill, I was miserable. It feels good to say no, Ive got plans. I just wanted more, and I was reading in Luke recently when John the Baptist was teaching and he told roman soldiers to be happy with their wages. Ouch. God was like, Do you do without? No. So be happy with my provision. You do what I want you to do, Ill take care of the small stuff. Now If it would only stop raining so I could go for a hike.

No Love For north carolina

2007-04-27T23:01:00.000-04:00

What a day. True to my blog, I got a ticket recently, and went to n.c traffic court for it. Why? When they write you a ticket in n.c. , they tack on a $110.00 court fee. So, since the ticket was only $50.00, the trooper explained if I showed for court, they'd drop the court fee, since that was for legal rep for me in my absence. So we went. I was there at 7:30 a.m. my ticket read 8:00 but I didn't know where I was so I went early. Long story short, They opened the doors at 9:00, got started about fifteen minutes later, and explained to me that they DIDN'T drop court costs. I said if Id known that Idve mailed it in. So about 10:30, I was done, and ready to get out of that God forbidden state. Was I guilty? Yes. 40 in a 20. But Court cost? And a lazy judicial system, people who don't know whats going on in the state they re employed by? I Should bill them for lost time and confusion of how hick law works. Several people told me to look at speed trap .com . Theres supposed to be alot of Franklin n.c. in there. I dont know if its legit, But it is funny.

Under the Weather

2007-04-23T08:18:00.000-04:00

Last week, and apparently this one too, I have been sick. Shoot me sick. Some kind of respiratory thing. The thing where you try to talk, and all you can do is cough and hack. I wanted to call out of work, but were tight on help, and that isn't in me. So I think every one has it now, and they will call in, and Ill get overtime. Weird huh? Ive also been out of coffee for three days. talk about the world coming to an end. Maybe ill remember to buy some today.

Fire in the Bedroom!

2007-04-16T19:49:00.000-04:00

I know what you're thinking. Pervert. I awoke this morning, something before to three, to the wife saying my name, and do something. You see, she left a candle burning on my nightstand, and my pillow caught fire. Not a little, or a corner, HALF the pillow was gone and still burning. After I was completely awake (which was only a second) we took the pillow to the bathroom and put it under the shower. Then I'm like, OK I'm going back to sleep, I go in the bedroom to find another fire! some of the pillow fell on the floor and caught some clothes on fire. after putting those out, I went back to sleep. I told my wife to share her pillow. (This was her fault anyway), Kidding! It was a pure accident. But I did put a ban on candles in the bedroom. I also bought a battery for our smoke alarm since I'm apparently a very heavy sleeper. So its all good. Ive been wanting a new pillow for a while.

Mexican Anyone?

2007-04-14T20:15:00.000-04:00

Carrie and tried a new restaurant tonight. Barbiritos in Ander son. Not bad, if you like made to order burritos. Thats pretty much the menu, tacos, salads, burritos. Its kinda like a sandwich bar, you choose the filling. Reasonable too. BTW, funniest thing leaving the restaurant. This skinny kid was getting ready to go in, and he was dancing, to the chain hang low song, folding his bandanna, Oh, and he was white. All I could do was laugh. I dont know which was funnier, Gangsta getting ready, or him trying to stare me down.

My Peeps

2007-04-14T10:47:00.000-04:00

wineskins

2007-04-13T11:31:00.000-04:00

I was reading my bible this morning, and in Luke, Jesus was dealing with the Pharisees and referred to them as old wineskins. Hmm. When was the last time I let God stretch me? I was reading another blog this morning from a guy at our church, and he was talking about the last staff meeting, and he said thats what he liked about Perrys leadership, "hes always stretching us". I am a firm beleiver that Pharisees are alive and well in todays world. I generally have a bone with them, because they are old wineskins, hooked on rules and traditions and a misconception that they have contained God. I realize not to be like them, I have to let God stretch me.