The Salad Days

Man on Fire

2011-06-04T08:25:00.000-05:00

So, about a year ago, my grandfather passed away. Since I have only written one other entry on this blog since then, you don't have to look far to see that entry.

I live my life with few regrets. Mainly, I think looking back is a waste of time. There are important instances where looking back is vital (each week in church when I take the sacrament, I am looking back, and that is necessary), but most looking back is pointless to me. But there is one thing I wish my grandfather had known, and that is my nickname at work.

Some years ago, I stood outside my parents house in the pouring rain mixing concrete with my grandfather. I had been aiding my dad and grandfather on an addition at my parent's house, and we were attempting to put the finishing touches on the plaster on the outside of the house. I had finished a day at school, and it was raining pretty hard, so I figured we would not be working on the addition that day. I was wrong. I mixed concrete and served it up to my grandfather in the rain, and I was furious. He even made reference to it some years later, as he knew that I was less then thrilled with the situation.

My grandfather grew up in the depression, and I have even heard my grandmother say that my generation could use a depression to teach us something. To a certain degree, she may be right. But I always thought, especially when I was younger, that he thought me lazy, or at least not a hard enough worker.

Over the last couple of years, some of my coworkers began calling me "Man on Fire" when I run the floor. To those of you not familiar with the vernacular, "running the floor" at Trader Joe's means you are driving the crew and attempting to manage the processing of a load and the process of getting the products on the shelf. I became known as "man on fire" when I ran the floor, because I apparently have a look and an intensity about me when I run the floor that I don't otherwise have.

Recently, I was putting up some wine in the wine shop, and one of my crew members (he was training a new crew member) said to his trainee, "This is when we call Joel 'man on fire'." I realized then and there that I wish that Papa could have heard that nickname, and that he would know that while I never lived through the Great Depression, I was able to learn the value of hard work, and that I partly learned it from him.

From now on, every time I hear the nickname, I will think of him.

The Latest

2011-04-16T19:18:00.004-05:00

If you ever stop by here anymore, thank you. Most of my attention lately has been on writing about movies. Stephanie has done a great job updating some pictures...I link her blog on the side. Otherwise, for some reason, I would rather talk about something I really like than talk more about myself (though there's plenty of room for that on the movie blog as well, I guess). I'll write more as stuff comes up...

Here's the link:

http://joelsmovieblog.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you can have some fun with the movies. Enjoy!

Remembering Harry

2010-06-17T19:56:00.002-05:00

At some point early in my life, I decided to call my grandfather Harry, "papa". I called him that for 34 years. He died suddenly two weeks ago, and his death has led to a lot of thinking. The thing most disquieting about death is its unpredictability. Since we never know who it will strike or when, the very ground beneath our feet feels unstable. I am glad that papa's life was built on a rock, but that doesn't seem to ease my grandmother's pain right now. The loss of a presence that she had for 62 years cannot be easy. My love and prayers are with her constantly.

As I made my way back to my home in Southern California last week, I did it with reservations. How would this all feel? Would I sob the whole time? Would I be able to enjoy the presence of family, some of whom I had not seen in decades? The answer? I did not sob the whole time. I felt rushes of nostalgia and heartache, and I did enjoy seeing the family. It was a four day affair, which made for lots of storytelling, great laughter, old and new photographs, and food. The thing that impressed me so much was the direct impact that he had on so many, while his impact on me was more one of influence. He raised a family on the Rock, and his son in turn raised me on the Rock. This is the greatest gift he could have given. Grandparents are often thought of as mindless gift fountains, dispensing candy, money and toys to greedy grandchildren. Papa knew that the greatest gift he could give us was an understanding of who Jesus Christ is.

Last weekend, I heard the same old stories, I saw many of the same old photos, and I sang the same old hymns. I also contemplated some of the arguments I had with my grandfather, and some of the ways I just didn't connect with him. But it occurs to me that the photos, the hymns and the stories (which all serve a meaningful purpose) are actually quite trite compared with the one thing that mattered most to him. This one thing we shared, and it eclipses anything else. Our sins were washed in the blood of the great Passover Lamb, and we have given Him our hearts. I will be conformed to Christ's image for as many days as I have left on this earth. That is the best way I can remember him.

I'm Glad I Don't Aim High

2010-04-07T19:30:00.003-05:00

Because the blog has been not so much of a priority for me of late.

Work has been going well. Becoming a Mate at TJ's has had its challenges. I wouldn't call any of them unexpected, but they have been difficult at times. The increased responsibility is both exhilarating and intimidating. Right now, the big challenge that I am facing is getting our spoils (perishable product that we throw away) under control. It is a fine line to walk between being in stock but not having too much.

The kiddos get more fun each day. I have begun rounds of kickball in the backyard, and Corrie and Jack love it. One odd thing...Jack finds the phrase "foul ball" to be utterly hilarious. Wesley is at that stage where every phrase uttered is adorable. He also seems to be more dramatic than the other two...resorting to violent rages of temper, and lamentable weeps that should be saved for wakes, but usually have something to do with a missing toy.

Speaking of kickball, we have had a very warm spring. I cannot remember a time when the buds on the trees popped out so early. The kids were able to hunt for Easter eggs outside, which is always a crap shoot here in Minnesota.

Folks, we moved to Minnesota 4 years ago. That occasion started this here blog. I cannot believe how much has happened...

One last anecdote...I was eating lunch with two coworkers, both of whom have moved to Minnesota within the past year. I was talking to them about a local restaurant that we love (Sea Salt, a seafood restaurant near Minnehaha Falls). Both of these men live in the west Suburbs, a good 20-30 minutes from the falls. I was telling them how great the restaurant was, but told them that it might be quite a drive for them coming from the West 'Burbs. They both looked at me and said, "You've been living here too long...30 minutes is nothing." I should know better. It's true. 30 minutes in the car has become a long drive to me, when I used to spend almost 4 times that amount of time in the car daily when I lived in LA and commuted to TJ's in Pasadena. I have acclimated...and I am told I can do a dead on Minnesota accent.

An Exchange in the Car Today

2009-12-05T12:10:00.002-06:00

Jack: Wesley's middle name is tov!

Me: What does that mean?

Jack: Goodness. Corrie's middle name is Hesed!

Me: What does that mean?

Jack: Lovingkindness. My middle name is Emet!

Me: What does that mean?

Jack: Truth.

Me: Good...Do you know who you are named after Jack?

Jack: No.

Me: You are named after CS Lewis.

Jack: (nothing)

Me: He wrote the Narnia books that your sister listens to.

Jack: Daddy, I have no idea what you're talking about....

The End?

2009-11-19T16:11:00.003-06:00

For reasons that I will not expand upon, the end times have been foremost on my mind lately. This subject never grows old. What occurs to me however is how little it matters to me how it all plays out (or when, for that matter). My guess is that there are many times in the world's history when people thought that the apocalypse was eminent. Someday, those folks will be right, but probably not on purpose.

These days, the return of Christ excites me for one simple reason. My hope is that upon seeing him, I will finally put the things of this world in their proper perspective. Right now, the cares of such things as enough celery for the produce shelves and enough money to make change for our customers seem to be occupying my mind to an unhealthy degree. They just seem to be in the forefront of my mind. I long for the rest that will one day come when he puts my mind right, and I no longer am forced to consider things of such small importance.

Come, Lord Jesus.

Fun

2009-10-16T19:51:00.003-05:00

It is fun to see such well matched teams vying for their leagues. A few months back, I wrote on my blog about how the Dodgers/Phillies rivalry could turn into something special. Now, with the NLCS tied at one game a piece, it seems we may have a great series on our hands. Right now, the Angels are struggling against Sabathia, but let's hope they can fight. It would be great to see two epic series capped off by an epic world series.

It was sad to see the Twins disposed of so quickly, but the Yankees are so much better. The Twins just didn't have the weapons to fight...

For those who are interested...

2009-08-27T20:42:00.001-05:00

Check out Steph's entry about our trip to the Minnesota State Fair. I only have one thing to add...make sure you check out the picture of me with the cookies, and see Jack's hungry hand descending upon the cookie cone.

Wes and "Where the Wild Things Are"

2009-08-21T20:12:00.003-05:00

Today, Wesley Tov is 2 years old. Last weekend, Steph and I spent two wonderful days in Chicago. While there, we saw the latest Harry Potter movie. Before the movie, we saw a trailer for the film version of this classic children's book.

It got me to thinking...have I ever read that book? It's funny...there is something for everyone that everyone else has seen or heard, while one hasn't seen or heard it. Anyhow, the trailer looked great, and Stephanie and I decided we would buy Wesley this book for his 2nd birthday. Today, I have read it to him twice, and I love the wonder of the book. I also love that the outfit of Max in the book reminds me of of the sleepers that little Wes still wears. Wes got some moose sleepers for his birthday, and the sight of him in those sleepers coupled with reading him that book could not be more adorable.

The book sees the wonder of imagination right next to the simple yearning for parental love. What better idea to sum up this little man who has a wild streak but loves his family so much. We cannot imagine our little family without him. As I saw his brother and sister cheering on the proceedings this morning as he blew out the candle on his birthday breakfast muffin, I saw part of the wonder of having 3 kids. The older two were as excited as him, and were pulling him along for the ride. He had a ball, the wild rumpus began, and he was the king of the wild things.

Happy birthday Wessie.

The Sound of Thunder Music

2009-08-08T10:02:00.001-05:00

So last night, we had a visit from our old friend, thunder. Corrie still gets skittish with the noise, so she came up to our room after an unusually loud clap of thunder, and we proceeded to watch the Sound of Music past 1AM. It made for an early rise this morning (especially for Steph, bless her), but it was sweet to have Corrie in our bed snuggling up. By the way, we heard nothing from the boys.

Here are a few recent pics:

A day at the nature preserve:

Trip to the aquarium

The aftermath of Wesley's four stitches on his chin:

What's New in the Neighborhood?

2009-07-23T14:33:00.002-05:00

Check out what just moved in to our neighborhood. Quite an upgrade!

New Addition

2009-07-05T14:51:00.002-05:00

I was happy to hear that yesterday, Steph and I welcomed a new nephew into the world. My sister and her husband welcomed their son at 5:44 AM. They had gone in the night before, so it was a long night I am sure.

I look forward to meeting the little guy, as I will be traveling into LA for a brief trip this week. We thank God for his provision for Chuck and Faith.

The Answer....

2009-07-01T19:26:00.000-05:00

Jesse Jackson, 1977.

Who said this?

2009-06-27T20:07:00.002-05:00

"There are those who argue that the right to privacy is of [a] higher order than the right to life... that was the premise of slavery. You could not protest the existence or treatment of slaves on the plantation because that was private and therefore outside your right to be concerned. What happens to the mind of a person, and the moral fabric of a nation, that accepts the aborting of the life of a baby without a pang of conscience? What kind of a person and what kind of a society will we have twenty years hence if life can be taken so casually? It is that question, the question of our attitude, our value system, and our mind-set with regard to the nature and worth of life itself that is the central question confronting mankind. Failure to answer that question affirmatively may leave us with a hell right here on earth."

Answer to come soon

Jack Emet

2009-06-26T15:06:00.003-05:00

Jack was four yesterday, and it seems that he is indeed making himself known in this world. He got a CD player and a bike, and he instantly began listening to CDs in his room.

Four years ago, this big little guy made his first appearance and nearly slipped out of the doctor's hands. He was big, and he was cuddly.

He still wants to snuggle a lot, something that his sister has only come to with age. Jack slept on me the most of my three, and he was the only one who slept in our bed regularly--because he liked it.

As he starts to read and starts to think independently, it is indeed a blessing to see what God has done. He gave us a healthy baby boy who has grown to a four year old little man. He still has a steady heart, and he still sets the pace slower than his sister.

Happy birthday little Jackie.

Jack, upon seeing Wesley getting into my records

2009-06-12T18:35:00.001-05:00

"Uh oh, Wesley has one of daddy's great big cds."

Something Brewin'

2009-06-06T20:59:00.002-05:00

I must say, there seems to be something special in the mix between the two best teams in the NL right now. The last three games between the Phillies and Dodgers have been outstanding. That coupled with the fact that these two teams met in last year's NLCS, and it seems like we may be seeing something of a rivalry in the making. These two teams both have outstanding young talent coupled with choice veterans who round out their teams. Cole Hamels dazzled the Dodgers Thursday night with a complete game shut out, and now the Dodgers have won two in a row on walk off hits by Andre Ethier. In both games, the Dodgers had to get past Brad Lidge (one of baseball's best closers) in the ninth inning.

It would be great to see these two storied franchises begin to have a special rivalry. The Phillies have a great team, and it is fun to watch the kind of competition that has been going on at Dodger Stadium the last three days.

May is gone!

2009-06-06T14:31:00.006-05:00

The fact that I am writing about May being gone on June 6 says something. May was a great month and a busy one. We had two visits (my parents and our friends Eric, Josie and Dietrich), I had a lot going on at work, and we had to take care of a few things at the house.

The visit with my folks was great. We had a wonderful visit up to Duluth, and were able to see some wonderful scenery. We also stayed at a great lodge up there. We ate at some great restaurants, I saw Star Trek twice, and Steph and I were able to get out on a date (on which we saw Star Trek).

Family shot at the Minneapolis sculpture garden:

Grandad and Wes:

Grandad planting a rose bush with Corrie and Jack

Corrie and Jack throwing rocks into Lake Superior

Grandma with Corrie and Jack

Corrie at the 3 Bear's Lodge

Corrie and Jack at Gooseberry Falls

Me and Steph at the falls

Steph, Corrie and Jack at the falls

At Canal Park in Duluth

Our visit with Eric, Josie and Dietrich was great. Thy live in Ukraine, and they blessed us with a visit here last week. Many great Minnesota things were involved: a playground by the lake, a Twins game, the Mall of America, the Como Park Zoo, and stunning mid 70's days throughout their visit.

May brought some things back home to me. It is good to have your life's pace altered at times, because it can bring you back to what is important. I love my job and my everyday life, but being able to focus on the people that are important to you is a great change of pace. We have had some stress with stuff to do around the house (and since I don't like house stuff, I allow it to grate on me more than I should), and it was great to be able to change our perspective. With more visits in June, that should be able to continue-Steph's parents are here right now, and my cousin and his family will visit in a week.

Here are the kiddos with their friend Dietrich (Wes is enormous)

Me n' Eric

Josie was great about reading to the kiddos:

And when it is just the five of us, Steph and I are constantly amazed by the natural beauty in our neighborhood. Here are Jack and Corrie, our nature explorers.

Ebb and Flow

2009-05-01T20:50:00.003-05:00

Joy and sorrow come and go
Joy and sorrow ebb and flow.

All seems lost, then all is gained
Nothing seems to remain the same.

Would it be better if I could be
A calm lake rather than a rushing river?

A river that rises and falls
As the rains fall from heaven
In times only known to God.

Life is that river.

It rises and falls
It ebbs and flows.

Do I spend my time wishing for predictability,
Or do I follow my shepherd as he leads me by still waters
After leaving the valley of the shadow of death.

My passions rise and fall
But the hesed of Yahweh never ceases.
His mercies never come to an end.

They are new every morning,
But as predictable as the sunrise.

More from Corrie

2009-04-25T10:23:00.002-05:00

By all means, tell me when this becomes annoying....here's another note Corrie wrote...

Adventures in the Pew

2009-04-19T14:35:00.002-05:00

So today marked week 2 of Jack sitting in the service with us. He is doing well, but this conversation sums up a lot:

Jack (after we sang the first hymn): "Can we go home now?"

Corrie: "Jack, the service just started."

Ah Corrie, the embattled veteran.

Corrie's Latest Obsession

2009-04-09T21:18:00.004-05:00

Corrie is very interested in classical composers right now. She has been listening to an educational CD that teaches kids famous themes and their composers. Here is a letter she wrote to them (click on the image to enlarge it):

Corrie's Sixth Birthday

2009-03-19T20:02:00.003-05:00

I spent most of today at TJ's, but I did bring home a lovely Ice Cream Birthday Cake for a certain little girl today (by the way, the cake is quite a deal....7.99 for the cake-and that's not a sale price, but an everyday low price).

Steph and I have marveled at the time that has gone by and how much things have changed in 6 years. We are so proud of this little girl. She truly is a gift. We got a couple of pictures...one of them is her cuddling her new baby doll...very sweet.

Halfway to 12....my goodness...

Corrie's Recital

2009-03-16T12:25:00.002-05:00

If you are interested in seeing my ham of a daughter perform her violin, here is a link to my wife's blog...we would have had it up earlier, but the very same daughter decided to chew up our camera cord (we had assumed that it was Wes, but she 'fessed up).

Living in Ireland

2009-03-11T20:02:00.002-05:00

As luck would have it, I have spent much of this month listening to the music of two Irish artists-U2 and Van Morrison.

I was drawn back to both of them this month due to late night television. Van Morrison was on the first episode of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. That same week, u2 closed the show for a full week on David Letterman.

I went through a Van Morrison phase back when I was engaged, but I still left some of his music undiscovered. U2 has always been a part of my musical consciousness, though they have come to the forefront of my mind yet again. When Morrison was on Fallon's show, he performed a song from his legendary album, Astral Weeks. I had always heard of the album but had never listened to. Fallon instructed me to listen to this music with the headphones and become lost in it. I obeyed him. I bought it on itunes, listened to it, and what a musical discovery I have made. This hybrid of melody, jazz and rock truly is hypnotic. I suppose I will never have enough time or energy to listen to anything other than popular music (by this, I mean known by many, not "Pop" music). My laziness keeps me from seeking out more independent artists (please though...I am always open to suggestions). However, if I am able to immerse myself in this level of sublime expression it needn't matter. The sixth track on the record, "Madame George", continues to play in my head. It is a masterpiece of climatic and stream of consciousness song writing. I have read a lot over the last few days concerning what it is about, but I don't suppose it matters. Sometimes an artist's tone is enough to convey volumes.

I bought u2's new album this week, and I like it fine. But the musical discovery I made this week was very true to form for me. By this, I mean I was late to the party. 4 years ago, U2 released How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb. This week, I have listened several times to the final cut on the album, "Yahweh." Once again, Bono (with the Edge) has brought a sublime expression of faith to a song, and it took me 4 years to hear it. "Take this soul, stranded in some skin and bones...take this soul, and make it sing. Yahweh....Yahweh...always pain before a child is born. Yahweh...Yahweh...still I'm waiting for the dawn." The last line, a prayer to break the singers heart, reminds me of the rebuke of Israel by God in Joel 2:13 to "rend your heart and not your garments." The special nature of Yahweh, the covenant name, resonates for me, since Hebrew has taken over my mind so much in the last 6 years. The prayer of this song seems to be one for sanctification, not matter what discomfort it may bring.

It has been a good March, listening and discovering more of the music of Ireland.

Latest Photos

2009-03-09T21:23:00.001-05:00

Here are recent photos of the three kiddos:

Spring is almost here again...

Mixed Bag

2009-03-02T10:00:00.003-06:00

Well, the last three days have been a mixed bag. My wife has been in California visiting her family. Her brother and sister in law have just welcomed a new baby, and Steph was traveling out there to have some fun visiting them. I had looked forward to this weekend because it would afford me the rare opportunity to be alone with my kids and have some time to myself.

One of us got what we expected.

As it turns out, our niece has serious health problems. She was born with a hole in her heart, and has been treated for that (though open heart surgery is in her near future). But since the initial treatment, the little one (Katie) has not been able to breathe without the help of a ventilator. We are praying for her, and Steph has had opportunity to spend time with our nephew Dylan, since his parents have had to be at the hospital with Katie so much.

Back here in Minnesota, I have had a wonderful weekend. I have spent so much time with my kiddos. We have watched movies, had pizza, gone to the aquarium, played in the snow, and generally have had a wonderful weekend. I finished another book, watched a movie, and hosted my scotch club on Saturday night. All in all, a great weekend for me. How could I have such a time while my wife and her family's situation is the opposite?

Well, they are related. Obviously I have been very concerned with Katie's condition. I am glad my wife could be there to help. What has been shoved in my face this weekend is how special it indeed is to have a healthy child, let alone three. It seems that almost every couple that Stephanie and I know (beyond mere acquaintance) have had something go wrong-severe birth defects, miscarriages, still births and possibilities of genetic conditions. Add to that the danger of child birth itself (Stephanie would not have survived Corrie's birth without modern medicine), and the presence of Corrie, Jack and Wesley has been a continual reminder (this weekend especially) of the magnitude of the gift that God has given. Why God allows the bad is a mystery that I have to live with, but I do know He has made himself known in every healthy child that does grace the home of their parents.

So as I said, it has been a mixed bag this weekend. Though I must say, I may not be able to enjoy the belly laugh I am hearing from Wesley right now if I did not know that a healthy child is not a sure thing to be taken for granted.

Late February

2009-02-18T10:43:00.003-06:00

I'm sitting here relaxing with little Wesley. I go to work in a couple of hours, and my wife is with Corrie and Jack in St. Paul on a "play date." Lately, I have had nothing to write about, and have lacked the appropriate time to write if I wanted to.

It has occurred to me (and the irony of what I am about to say is not at all lost on me) how self referential I have become. Since facebook has become a part of my life and I have two blogs, the current critiques I have been reading regarding the inflated egos of our time have spoken to me. For the most part, I like being able to get a line or two from old friends and acquaintances, but any real relationship evaporates and this person from my past becomes another memory (though not as distant as they were a few days before).

The tool of the internet has proven invaluable to the family in being able to send pictures, talk face to face, and make moves toward closing the 2000 mile gap in the family. These are good things. But as I sit in my cold basement in late February, I am still reminded of how disjointed we are as a culture. We have exchanged so much reality for these "facebook friends." The number of tributaries upon which I could set sail is endless....

Suffice to say that as recently as yesterday I was reminded again of what a detached medium of communication the internet can be. When one doesn't have to see a person, their hurt or their awkwardness, things are much easier and antiseptic. Life is not that way. Life is like late February...crystal blue skies followed by slushy snowfall and the fond expectation of spring and new life.

Oddly enough (and maybe this is why we look to this medium), I can share my feelings now in a way that could never be afforded by pen and paper. I can instantly post something that anyone can read, though very few will....

Wisdom from Churchill

2009-02-07T22:38:00.000-06:00

"Americans will always do the right thing -- after they have exhausted all other alternatives"

Wes in action

2009-02-05T10:23:00.002-06:00

To sound like a cliche, where does the time go? I may be having amnesia, but this little guy is always into mischief. True, all three were into things at his age (16 months), but this one does it with a twinkle in his eye that I don't recall seeing from the other two. He loves the bathroom-the toilet is a favorite destination for him. Lately, we have had to protect him from plugs, lamps, foot powder, clean laundry, paint, chalk, and himself. He is so much fun to watch, and he is now giving kisses on command. This is the stage where, all things being equal, you just wish you could have these little people in your lives for a long time...

Wesley Tov is starting to babble and kiss his parents. What a great time it is.

The Lie of the Vacation

2009-01-21T19:26:00.003-06:00

The problem with vacations is that they end. I am convinced that the reason so many people want to move to CA or Florida is because they vacation there. When you're on vacation, the world is idyllic. For the last two weeks, I have enjoyed time with family, old friends whom I have not seen in years, and been engaged in wonderful conversation and fellowship. Who in their right mind would not want that to endure?

For the last two weeks, the stress has been reduced, and while life always has at least some worry, most of that has been gone as well. But what happens (I think) is that people think that the weather of a place brings joy, and so they move to a "better" place, thinking that it will fulfill their needs, but life with all its stress follows them.

We have lived in Minneapolis almost 3 years now. The novelty of the place has worn off, and the more established we get there, the more stress comes with life. We are members of a church that is trying to nominate officers, our kindergarten aged daughter is receiving home education and violin lessons, we have a 16 month old who is asserting himself more each day, and my work continues to have unanswered questions, as new stores loom on the horizon. And this time in SoCal the weather comparisons were particularly on display. Since there was an 80 hour period in Minneapolis when it did not get above 0 degrees, we not only had to hear about how awful that weather must be, but we were also able to be on display for inquiring minds who wondered how a human being could live in such a place. The contrast and self congratulatory nature of some in SoCal made the contrast even more pronounced. At times, we felt like we were under scientific observation.

So this vacation taunts me. The weather was warm, but never materialized into a severe heat wave. And it was remarkably clear for SOCAL, with the mountains on display pretty much every day. We spent time with friends we have not seen in years, I finished 2 books, ate at some great restaurants, saw two movies, and napped quite a bit. The challenge that I feel that God is giving me (one that I could never face while on vacation) is to rely on him with all the uncertainties that continue to show themselves in our future. Minneapolis is a wonderful home base for us, as we cannot live on eternal vacation. But I cannot help but have my position supported: that work and the stress of life is not natural, and that at times like these when we can focus on friends and family are the times when God reminds us what we indeed created for.

So as we say hello again to the snow of Minnesota again, we say hello this time not as foreigners, but as an old friends coming home. We love our home, and we love all that it has provided. Minnesota is a place of endless beauty, much of it only made possible by the harsh winters. We are thankful for the time we could have here. We are thankful for an idyllic time of rest. We now prepare for the trip back north, and we look ahead leaning on God to help us through the uncertainty of the next year. Thanks to all in SoCal for a great time.

Two Kingdoms

2009-01-20T23:24:00.003-06:00

Well, we have had a good trip to LA. We go back to Minneapolis in a day and a half, and we have had some good times. The time with family has been good. The eating has been good. But the time we have had with friends has been uniquely good this time. But today was a unique day in our nation's history. As I watched the inauguration today, three things struck me.

First, I have had some extraordinary interaction with brothers and sisters in Christ who do not share my political opinions. This has been enlightening and engaging, and it has also given me a sense of optimism concerning the new president who took the oath of office today. But more than that, it has further reinforced the notion to me that Christ's kingdom is different than the kingdom of this world, and how we achieve justice in this world can be viewed differently, even by brothers and sisters in Christ.

Second, the ordinariness of the transfer of power spoke to the extraordinary nature of the moment. The oath was the same. The ceremony was the same. This all matters because the 44th president is like any other president...a private citizen who has been chosen by his peers to lead the country. The fact that President Obama is African American is both monumental and ordinary. It is monumental in its trailblazing nature, but ordinary in that he took the same oath that has been administered for over 200 years. I think that this peaceful transfer of power in part speaks to just how important a step this administration is. Obama won fair and square, and he has assumed the office as the 42 men before him have but his ascendancy is remarkable given our nation's demons concerning race.

Finally (I know I repeat myself), despite the hope and determination President Obama brings, I still lack idealism. I believe in the preeminence of Christ and His Kingdom, and I pray that the kingdom of this earth will become the kingdom of our Lord, and of his Christ. How an Obama presidency fits into that only God knows, but it is vital for us to remember that those of us who adhere to the Christian faith should first be loyal to Christ. I pray for our new president, that he can lead us in a greater sense of justice for all, and that more people can come to a knowledge of the kingdom that is not of this world.

Number 200

2009-01-01T13:08:00.003-06:00

I just noticed that this is my 200th post since I began this blog almost 3 years ago. Nothing special, but I guess it is noteworthy.

This year I have only one thing that resembles any kind of New Year's resolution. I would like to come up with a group of 10-15 books to read this year. Since I have very little time to read, oftentimes I find it very frustrating to actually choose something. So far, I have this list:

-What's So Great About Christianity, D'Souza
-The Letters of John and Abigail Adams
-Out of the Silent Planet, Lewis
-Perelandra, Lewis
-Knowledge of the Holy, Tozer
-I want to find a biography of JS Bach
-Young Restless and Reformed (I have heard of this through my friend Darren Prince, and since I have settled into reformed theology, it sounds interesting)

This is my list so far...I am open to suggestions.

66%

2008-12-24T22:10:00.002-06:00

This is our 3rd Christmas in Minneapolis, and while the first one was brown, the last two have been white. Not only that, everyone around here is clamoring over the old fashioned Christmas we are having. As I took an ordinary trip to our trash can tonight, I stopped on the way back to look at the mini canyons of snow which I pass through to and from the trash, and for one moment, I looked around. I saw the Christmas lights up and down the block, and an entire city utterly covered in snow. As we have settled in for our yearly feast, snow has no bearing on the meaning of the holiday. But as I stood outside in the 0 degree night taking in the scenery around me, it did my heart good. This advent season has been dramatic in many ways, so the simplicity of a snowy landscape struck me as a piece of common grace on this Christmas Eve.

Christmas Greetings from Corrie Hesed

2008-12-22T08:54:00.002-06:00

Steph and I were in the basement on the computer, having put the three kids in bed. Suddenly we hear, "MOM!!" Steph and I were frustrated by Corrie's lack of ability to control the volume of her voice, since her brothers were trying to sleep. I told her to come downstairs, gave her a slight reprimand for her volume, and then asked her what she wanted....

"Mom, Dad, I went poo-poo and it was shaped like a candy cane."

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

In Case You Are Interested

2008-12-15T14:49:00.002-06:00

I did my first movie blog in 5 months....there's a link to the left.

Welcome Back Winter

2008-12-15T13:59:00.003-06:00

A week ago, my wife was awfully sick for a day, so I spent the day with Jack and Corrie. We took advantage of the indoor park at the Mall of America, and then came home to play outside in the snow. We had a great time.

We have a school right down the street that has a great sledding hill. It's the perfect size for kiddos:

Amen Brother

2008-12-13T16:57:00.003-06:00

Steph found this wonderful essay on Christmas by RC Sproul. I agree wholeheartedly with his overriding thesis: that people need to chill about Christmas.

RC Sproul on Christmas

Not Only Is She Easy On the Eyes...

2008-12-06T17:07:00.002-06:00

But when I got home from my 6-4 shift at the store today, Steph had shoveled ALL of the snow in the front and back yard. Folks, it just doesn't get any better than that. What a great way to start the weekend :).

If I Explained It, It Wouldn't Be As Funny

2008-12-01T20:24:00.001-06:00

Corrie: "Mother, things are so much better now that you're out of prison..."

Poverty and Moderation

2008-11-30T15:25:00.003-06:00

Once again it has become fashionable to disdain wealth. Poverty has suddenly become a very fashionable cause. Criticism of this nation's materialism (as though it were confined to the United States), comes about as often as cases of Charles Shaw leave Trader Joe's.

What to do? Well, I realize nobody asked, but since this subject is close to my heart, I wanted to air my thoughts. The subject of moderation has recently come to my attention for two reasons: First, the trampling to death of a poor Walmart employee last Friday awakened a fear of the insatiable appetite people have for more stuff; second, I have seen a web site dededicated to an "Advent Conspiracy." This website attempts to shift people's focus from giving presents to something else. I here quote the website:

"Before you think we’re getting all Scrooge on you, let us explain what we mean. We like gifts. Our kids really like gifts. But consider this: America spends an average of $450 billion a year every Christmas. How often have you spent money on Christmas presents for no other reason than obligation? How many times have you received a gift out of that same obligation? Thanks, but no thanks, right? We’re asking people to consider buying ONE LESS GIFT this Christmas."

The alternative they present is to give money for the digging of wells so that people in poverty have access to clean water. In case anyone wondered, I am pro clean water for the poor. Clean water is good. My critique comes at this point: are we simply replacing one distraction (giving gifts out of obligation) with another (giving clean water out of obligation)? After all, if Jesus' main goal in the incarnation was to eradicate poverty, he failed miserably. I will concede that I think it is more noble to give clean water to the poor than give an obligatory cheese log to Aunt Mabel, but do either of them equal the gospel?

Christ came to transform hearts. Where the care of the poor fits into that is a matter I ponder constantly. Many on the Christian Left have become vocal regarding what they see as the ignoring of the Scriptures as they speak of poverty. There is much truth in this critique. My argument would therefore be, what shall we do about it? Since the vast majority of the Biblical quotations regarding the evil of ignoring the poor are directed at Israel (since they did not follow the Torah by taking care of the widows and orphans in their midst), I think we can learn something from God's condemnations. God expects us to care for the poor among us, care for our families, and do whatever we can to lighten the burden on the needy and defenseless in our midst. What makes this so complicated in 2008 is that in a global economy, suddenly 6 billion people are "in our midst" rather than 600 or 6000. This makes the problem seem so large that it seems insurmountable.

I have two thoughts. The first one has to do with Walmart. Since wealthy Americans probably don't do much shopping at Walmart, I think we can assume that none of the people who trampled that poor man to death on Friday were particularly wealthy. I could be wrong, since I did not take income statements at the door of the store, but let's just call it a hunch. Furthermore, it is not outside the realm of logic to term these folks as middle class or poor, by American standards (a caveat: if you are an American, in almost every case you are wealthy compared to the rest of the world). Therefore, this disturbing level of materialism and greed was exhibited not on Wall Street, but on Main Street. Because, the problem of greed is just as bad (if not worse) on Main street as it is on Wall Street, but trumpeting that fact will never get anyone elected president. This materialism and greed that infects humanity is what Jesus Christ came to eradicate. This is where our initial focus should be, however noble it is to help the poor.

Second, if we cannot understand the place for celebration in the life of the Christian, we run the risk of being immoderate. Jesus not only hung out with the poor and outcast, but he also partied at such a level that he himself said that some accused him of being a drunkard (Matthew 11:19). What can we learn from that? How can the Second Person of the Trinity be so engaged in celebrating that he ignores the needs of the poor for one second? Maybe we can learn that the real source of our energies needs to be the spreading of the gospel of Jesus Christ first and foremost. That will continue to be my advent conspiracy.

Ahh...Minnesota

2008-11-23T20:16:00.002-06:00

Life in Minnesota is becoming more and more ordinary. We have been here 2 and a half years, and I think we are starting to feel more as though this is our home, and not just another stop on our way to an eventual home. Over the last two days, several things have come up that remind me why I love it here and why it is like no other place:

-We quite probably beat a single day record in sales at our store on Saturday, as Thanksgiving shoppers, undeterred (or maybe brought to us) by the economic crisis, proceeded to buy more turkeys, potatoes, Charles Shaw wine and other goodies than ever. This was aided by weather in the 30's, which allowed us to use our loading dock as an outdoor refrigerator for our cold produce.

-As I left work, I was greeted in the car by the strains of Garrison Keillor on the radio. As I listened to his musings on the tundra of Minnesota and the white blanket of snow that greeted him in St. Paul on Saturday morning, I did not need to imagine it...all I had to do was look out my window.

-The political atmosphere here remains electric as the senate race between Al Franken and Norm Coleman continues through the recount. Right now, Coleman holds a 180 vote lead (that's 180, not 1800 or 18000), and we are all bracing ourselves for the legal battles as these two shameless scavengers beat each other to a metaphorical bloody pulp over the right to "represent us".

-As we made our way to church this morning, we took our normal route. This route takes us over the Mississippi River by Fort Snelling (the mid-1800's military outpost which was a part of the formation of this city). As we approached the river, a brown figure darted across our eye line, and Stephanie and I both realized that it was a bald eagle. It's wing span was wide and majestic, and it was an amazing sight, since I had never yet seen one outside of a zoo.

-We drove through Downtown St. Paul tonight, and the winter shows signs of beginning. The ice rink is going up again in front of Landmark Center, and the lights arond the center are beginning to go up. I can't wait until the tree is lit in Rice Park...it is a sight.

As the winter approaches and the first great holiday of the cold season comes on Thursday, the warmth of our home is always more pronounced than ever. The endless rows of glowing windows that I drive by as the sun sets at 4:30 PM warm the heart each year. Summer in Minnesota truly is a thing of glory, not to be missed. And while I do not look forward to the sub zero days that lay before me, those days in the teens, 20's and 30's that get me into my scarf, coat and bomber hat still awake something unique within me. How can home be so comforting and warm without winter? And how can the cocoa taste as good were it not immediately proceeded by a dive into the snow bank?

Reflections on an Historic Morning

2008-11-06T21:26:00.002-06:00

As someone who was always taught about the depth of the struggle of the African American people, it is difficult to not be proud of where the country has come in the election of Barack Obama Tuesday. I have never supported his candidacy, but I always felt a certain amount of happiness that we could see the progress of race relations in this country in a tangible way. What is comforting to me is the congratulations Obama received from Senator McCain and President Bush. It is comforting to see a clean victory here. It would have been heartbreaking to see another 2000 scenario, especially with race also being in the mix with this election.

There are many already recounting the words of Martin Luther King in these days following such an historic election. That is appropriate, for on Tuesday, I voted against this man for the same reason so many voted for him, because of the content of his character. If anything, my sympathy for the African American plight was the only thing that would have compelled me to vote for Obama. But in the end, that is going against my own principles. I must vote for someone based on their stance on the issues and how they measure up with my stances. While John McCain was far away from my principles, Obama was farther, and I could not ignore that as I cast my vote Tuesday.

The other quote from King that was recalled was the "free at last" quote. Again, that is an appropriate thought on such a day. And yet, I cannot help but think of the vast sea of voices silenced through abortion, and I cannot celebrate. Obama has skillfully addressed this issue in such a way that pleases most people. I agree that almost everyone (if not everyone) wants to see fewer abortions. That at least leaves room for progress. But while abortion is allowed in the name of liberty in this nation, I will not be a patriot of this nation. I am very aware of the other economical inequities that Obama says he will set out to correct. That is another principle where I differ. But the abortion issue is totally different. Economic systems are simply tools which can be used or abused like any other human endeavor. But the lack of regard of innocent human life looms so large in my heart that I don't think I can utter "free at last" until unborn human life is finally given its proper respect. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Senator Obama and my friends who support him. But I also offer my prayers that he will look inside himself and have a change of heart and realize that he cannot claim to care for the least of these among us as long as this right continues.

Election Day

2008-11-04T11:20:00.004-06:00

For those of you who don't know, our son Jack is named after CS Lewis (who went by that name his entire life, though it was not his given name). My wife and I are constantly pierced by some of his words which seem so appropriate. As I see all of the hubbub and worry over this election, an entry like this one from the Screwtape Letters speaks volumes. (For those who don't know, the Screwtape Letters are a collection of letters from a demon to his nephew, and the letters involve how the younger demon should best go about ensnaring his subject, a man who has become a Christian during the years of World War 2.) Lewis writes:

"If your patient can be induced to become a conscientious objector he will automatically find himself one of a small, vocal, organised, unpopular society, and the effects of this, on one so new to Christianity, will almost certainly be good. But only almost certainly. Has he had serious doubts about the lawfulness serving in a just war before this present war of serving began? Is he a man of great physical courage—so great that he will have no half-conscious misgivings about the real motives of his pacifism? Can he, when nearest to honesty (no human is ever very near), feel fully convinced that he actuated wholly by the desire to obey the Enemy? If he is that sort of man, his pacifism will probably not do us much good, and the Enemy will probably protect him from the usual consequences of belonging to a sect. Your best plan, in that case, would be to attempt a sudden, confused, emotional crisis from which he might emerge as an uneasy convert to patriotism. Such things can often be managed. But if he is the man I take him to be, try Pacifism.

Whichever he adopts, your main task will be the same. Let him begin by treating the Patriotism or the Pacifism as a part of his religion. Then let him, under the influence of partisan spirit, come to regard it as the most important part. Then quietly and gradually nurse him on to the stage at which the religion becomes merely part of the "cause", in which Christianity is valued chiefly because of the excellent arguments it can produce in favour of the British war-effort or of Pacifism. The attitude which you want to guard against is that in which temporal affairs are treated primarily as material for obedience. Once you have made the World an end, and faith a means, you have almost won your man, and it makes very little difference what kind of worldly end he is pursuing. Provided that meetings, pamphlets, policies, movements, causes, and crusades, matter more to him than prayers and sacraments and charity, he is ours—and the more "religious" (on those terms) the more securely ours. I could show you a pretty cageful down here."

Voting Irregularities

2008-11-04T09:44:00.001-06:00

Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood?

2008-11-03T12:36:00.002-06:00

On this day before election day, I decided to do a little counting. On our 2 mile walk to and from the bank, I counted the Obama and McCain signs.

Final score:

Obama:55

McCain: 4

The McCain voters should wish for a McCain express lane at the polls tomorrow in this leftist neighborhood :).

Walkin' Wes

2008-11-03T07:35:00.002-06:00

It has begun:

A Little Love for Philadelphia

2008-10-30T10:29:00.003-05:00

I did not get to see the conclusion of game 5 last night, as I was working. Having said that, there is always something that moves me when a team with such history and tradition wins a World Series. The Philadelphia Phillies are one of the 8 original professional teams which made up the National League as we know it today-this format was in place in 1899, though the National League was originally founded in 1876.

Having said that, The Phillies are the worst team in professional sports history. They have lost more games than any other sports franchise. They finally won their first World Series in 1980. So, to see the city of Philadelphia celebrate last night was a wonderful momentary refuge from the nasty world in which we live. To see veteran players like Jimmy Rollins and Brad Lidge frolic like young children and celebrate the moment always gets to me.

Furthermore, I love to see the wealth spread around in baseball. I love to see different cities have a championship now and then. I am so happy for the city of Philadelphia, since they have finally caught up to the Cubs by winning their second world series!

1:47

2008-10-26T07:48:00.002-05:00

That's when the game ended last night (or this morning) in Philly. Since I got up at 6 yesterday morning for work, I nodded off at around 11:15 Minnesota time. In what may need to be my final rant for awhile about baseball, I will say this....do we really need to have a primetime game? I can't watch with my kids since the game starts after they are in bed, and a rain delay puts the game at almost 2 in the morning in the east, almost 1 in the Midwest, and half the country has to take speed to watch the games.

Here's hoping the rain stays away tonight so the game can end by midnight tonight. I really wish I had seen the end, since it looked like a great ending! Baseball has no clue how to market itself-it needs to let kids watch, because they will be the fans buying tickets someday, and it will be difficult to become fans if they cannot watch the World Series.

I will need to load up on coffee tonight....

Last Chance??

2008-10-19T15:28:00.002-05:00

You never quite know here in Minnesota when it is indeed your last chance. Your last chance to go outdoors without thick layers of clothing. Today, it is partly cloudy and 62, a truly lovely fall day. I almost feel obligated to get outside, lest I lose my chance to partake one more time in the joy of being outside in Minnesota.

As Steph and I drove home from church today, we saw them. We saw the hordes of people taking advantage of this city's marvelous parks and bike trails. It always reminds me of the sight that I see when I accidentally step on an anthill. After I do it, I look down to see sheer movement, as the disoriented ants crawl about in confusion. When I drove past Minnehaha Falls Park today, I saw a place teeming with movement. You see, this whole city knows what is coming. And while I applaud the Minnesotan embrace of winter which can be best seen in ice fishing, sledding and cross country skiing, we know that people simply can't get enough of riding or running in the warm sunshine. October is, as I always say, my favorite month. It always will be because of the ability to enjoy the outdoors without a hint of discomfort, whether that be weather that is too cold or too warm. Happy October everybody.

At last...

2008-10-15T22:21:00.002-05:00

It looks as though a team will not ride a wave of euphoria to the World Series. The Dodgers have shown all of the reasons why they won 84 games, and will indeed lose the NLCS to the much better Philadelphia Phillies. It is good to see the system actually work in this case, though it has still done the Angels and Cubs wrong.

Go Phillies.

Meanwhile, in the real world

2008-10-11T21:53:00.003-05:00

I was greeted at 10:20 PM by my daughter bounding out of her room to say hello. When I asked what she was doing up she said she wanted to see me because she loves me.

If nothing else, kids can stroke your ego. The last couple of days have seen their ups and downs on the behavior front, but the three of them continually add immeasurably to our lives. Plus, Wes is beginning to rub his food in his hair...and how does that not charm you?

I'm so tired...

2008-10-11T21:51:00.001-05:00

of watching teams who couldn't even win their division or 85 games play in October that I may just root against the Dodgers for spite...yeah...I'm bitter.

I'll never get over this....

If Mike Scioscia Were the Red Sox manager...

2008-10-06T22:36:00.002-05:00

He would lose his job over calling for a squeeze with the season on the line. It is a risky, unpredictable play upon which you simply cannot wager your season.

I only feel bad for the guy that he will have to think about it for the entire winter.

Well, now the two best teams in baseball have been eliminated....it's anyone's game.

The Beat Goes On

2008-10-05T15:14:00.003-05:00

One month ago, I wrote this:

"If the baseball gods are really smiling on the situation, somehow this lackluster Dodgers or Diamondback team will end up taking out the Cubs, who haven't been in the Series in 63 years, haven't won it in 100 years, but have the best record in the NL this year."

Well, the gods apparently were smiling, and yet again a lackluster team has indeed taken out the best team in the league.

I cannot fully be happy because of my stubborn principles about baseball, but I am happy to see the Dodgers celebrate.

The whole thing is made worse by the fact that the 100 win Angels are on the verge of elimination as well. Another thing I wrote a month ago was this:

"Right now, I'm hoping for a true World Series, and that would be the Cubs and the Angels."

One of the teams is out, and the other has to rally to survive the first round.

I will not discontinue the beating of this drum, because it is baseball, and I want it to be played the way it should be played.

But, since I live in the real world and know it will never be different,
GO DODGERS!!!

It's Been Awhile

2008-10-01T22:10:00.002-05:00

The last time the Dodgers led in a post season series was 20 years ago. With their drubbing of the Cubs in Chicago tonight, they lead 1-0.

The Dodgers won a paltry 84 games this year, but the team on the field is so different than the one we saw so much of the year.

Here's hoping they continue to make it interesting.

Goodbye

2008-09-22T14:47:00.005-05:00

As a lifelong baseball fan, even I had to feel bad about Yankee Stadium's demise this weekend. It is sad to see a perfectly adequate ball park go down simply for profit. But, that is the way of the world, and while Wall Street slides into the Hudson River, the Bronx Bombers are seeing a new home erected.

As some of you know, my Dad and I made it there last July, and it is a place rich with baseball history. As a ball park, it didn't have the quirk and character of Wrigley or Fenway, but it did have a palpable sense of history which will be missed. And even though I have spent the last 8 years rooting against them (since that fateful toss of the bat by Roger "Juiced" Clemens), to see clips yesterday of Jeter and Rivera on the field one last time were indeed evocative.

You see, for those of us who are not Yankee fans, we still have to admit that the game would be so different without them. While my team will always be proud of being the first to fully integrate with the arrival of Jackie Robinson, the Yankees have always been the standard bearers of baseball. They have managed to maintain an impressive tradition of winning. The Dodgers have the most NL Pennants in history (21), but the Yankees have won 39 pennants and 26 championships. And, contrary to belief, they won because they were smart, not rich. Wealth helps, but you can ask the Tigers and Dodgers where it has gotten them recently. No, the Yankees were at their best when they sought out and invested in great talent that would build their franchise. Ruth, Gherig, DiMaggio, Berra, Mantle, Mattingly, Jeter, Rivera...these are great names. But they all had people behind them who management was smart enough to hire: Pipgrass, Lazzari, Reynolds, Richardson, Nettles, O'Neill and Brosius. These teams were the best, they were not just lucky. Until another team can come along to challenge this impressive resume, the Yankees will be the standard bearers, and it seems sad that they have left the "factory" where that standard was built. These photos are from our trip there last July (the first photo is of the impressive facade of New Yankee Stadium)

When dad and I made our way there, it did seem that we had, as baseball fans, visited something of a home for us, though we grew up 3000 miles away. That is because as a baseball fan, Yankee Stadium is a familiar place, though I only visited it twice. And so, as we all say goodbye to this magical place, here's my own personal signoff :) :

This One's for you, EO

2008-09-07T19:26:00.004-05:00

It's happening again folks. Only this time, the beneficiaries of it may be my life long team, the LA Dodgers. I mention my dear friend Eric because we had a debate over this matter last season. I felt a need to post one last time on this subject, because this year, my team may very well be in a position in which they have no business being. Right now, the Dodgers have won a whopping 73 games, but sit one and a half games ahead of the Arizona Diamondbacks in first place. No matter who wins the NL West, they will not deserve to be in the playoffs unless they run the table in September. Though I acknowledge that the NL West winner will be legitimate, I simply wish the rules were different. Right now, the Dodgers have the 7th best record in the NL, but under the current rules (in a game that should reward goodness over a long season), they would be one of the four teams to have a shot at the World Series. If the baseball gods are really smiling on the situation, somehow this lackluster Dodgers or Diamondback team will end up taking out the Cubs, who haven't been in the Series in 63 years, haven't won it in 100 years, but have the best record in the NL this year.

Last year, my friend Eric and I debated the matter on this blog, and while I was a total wet blanket, I offered no alternative, making me wholly negative. This year, I think I have an idea. If I were commisioner, I would do this. First, I would eliminate the divisions. Second, I would reformulate the schedule so that all teams had the same schedule. Every team in the NL and AL would play all the other teams the same amount of times (the admitted drawback here is fewer games between classic division rivals like Cubs/Cards, Yanks/Sox and Giants/Dodgers, but it's a sacrifice worth making). This would also involve needing to eliminate interleague play for fairness' sake. Third, in order to not take away much needed playoff gate receipts from the owners (I hope you can detect my sarcasm), I would reward the four teams with the best record in each league with playoff spots. I have not yet thought of a way to give the better teams a greater advantage (more home field advantage perhaps, or possibly making one team play without their shortstop :) ), but I think this would reward the best teams. If the Dodgers make it to the World Series, I will root for them, but it will be another piece of injustice done by MLB. Fortunately, it doesn't matter enough for me to not want to at least pull for the ol' Dodgers.

Right now, I'm hoping for a true World Series, and that would be the Cubs and the Angels. I can only hope Bud Selig is reading this.

The Answer to "Who Said This"

2008-08-28T09:38:00.000-05:00

Ted Kennedy, August, 1971

Good Answer

2008-08-27T17:19:00.002-05:00

"Hey Corrie, what's the capital of Minnesota?"

"M..."

Keep the guesses coming

2008-08-27T09:18:00.001-05:00

I'll reveal who said it tomorrow, 8/28...

Who said this?

2008-08-26T15:24:00.001-05:00

"While the deep concern of a woman bearing an unwanted child merits consideration and sympathy, it is my personal feeling that the legalization of abortion on demand is not in accordance with the value which our civilization places on human life. Wanted or unwanted, I believe that human life, even at its earliest stages, has certain rights which must be recognized — the right to be born, the right to love, the right to grow old."

Don't Look a Gift Horse...

2008-08-26T14:50:00.003-05:00

We have had a glorious summer in Minnesota. The temperature has not risen above 85 too much. I think we have had less than five days in the 90s. The sun is shining, yet it is not warm. These are pristine days to be enjoyed. After all, we go through a long and cold winter. However atmospheric winter may be, summer and fall offer a welcome respite, as we can enjoy the out of doors without the necessary layers of clothing. As I write, the weather posted on the Minneapolis/St/ Paul Star Tribune is 76 and mostly sunny. In a word, it is perfect. You would think that this would elate Minnesotans.

But for hearty midwestern folk, elation is not a word in any known vocabulary. Read this exchange I had yesterday while operating a cash register.:

Me: "Hello."

Him: ".........."

Me: "Certainly is great weather outside!"

Him: "Lousy"

Me : "?!?"

Him: "We need rain...we're 7 inches below normal..."

Me: "OK...Well...."

I had nothing. I am not exactly a man of few words, but I had no words for this man. Also, the local weatherman declared his bitterness over the lack of exciting weather this summer. Sunny today....sunny tomorrow...boring!

This is the same man who spent a good part of June declaring how concerned he was at the amount of severe weather we would have this summer due to climate change. It just goes to show that some people will never be happy. Last August, we had plenty of rain in August. In fact, we had so much that entire communities were destroyed in Southern Minnesota. In light of the alternatives, I'll take the brown grass and the calm skies. Last summer, we were awakened most nights by our daughter due to sever weather and thunder, while this summer's nights have been peaceful. I do not wish for hard times for our farmers who need rain, but can't we please enjoy this weather, since all we will hear in 5 months are the desperate cries for a return to July?

Wesley the One Year Old

2008-08-21T16:07:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe, but Wes is one today. Now that we are a year removed from the ordeal of his arrival, it seems strange to think we may not have any more children. He has been such a wonderful addition to our family. He is the mellowest of the three, and
he always seems to be the calm in the middle of the storm of his siblings. He is such a sweet little guy that it's hard to say good bye to him as an infant. But, that disappears when you see him climbing the stairs and becoming a little explorer.

We are so proud of him, and we can't wait what God has in store for our first native Minnesotan. L'chaim Tov! You betcha!

Chicago

2008-08-16T09:04:00.003-05:00

We had a great getaway in Chicago. We ate a lot, we stayed in way too nice hotels, and we enjoyed great weather.

Beautiful Sounds

2008-08-09T17:52:00.003-05:00

Some of you may know that I went to Yankee Stadium a week and a half ago. That coupled with watching some highlights of the Dodgers defeating the San Francisco Giants last night reminded me of the three most beautiful sounds in baseball:

1) The sound of a crack of the bat.
2) A silent Yankee Stadium crowd.
3) And a silent San Francisco crowd watching the Dodgers pummel the Giants.

These are beautiful sounds indeed :)

What A Difference 9 years makes

2008-08-05T13:24:00.006-05:00

I went to New York a week ago with my dad and his friend Jim to visit Yankee Stadium one last time. As I have written before on this blog, I have had a general disdain for New York in the past. I have always thought it to be an amazing city with too great of a picture of itself. This was mostly manifested to me by the exploits of the New York Yankees and their fans.

Well, I am here to say that both me and (I think) the city have changed since '99. On this visit, I found the place exhilarating. I love walking the streets at 2:30 AM and having them still be full of life. I love that sense you get in NY, SF and Chicago of a genuine world class city. Here, you can put aside you car and use transit and your feet to get around.

The trip made me want to go back with my wife (who as of yet has never been there). Here are some snapshots:

I started my time in NYC with a 12:30 AM pastrami on rye at the Carnegie Deli:

We spent the next morning in Greenwich village and, then walked up to the Trader Joe's at Union Square. The view of the Chrysler building is from TJ's looking north

After visiting TJ's, we went back down to Little Italy for some pizza at the oldest pizzeria in America, Lombardi's

Next,we made our way up to the Bronx to Yankee Stadium via subway, stopping off to see the cathedral of St. John the Divine in Upper Manhatten:

The next morning, I made my way up to the Upper West side, had breakfast, and stopped by the Museum of Biblical Art on Broadway. Then, I went through Columbus square and down Broadway past the Ed Sullivan Theater:

All in all, a great trip, and I can't wait to go back someday with Steph.

Gentlemen....this is a bat

2008-08-03T20:23:00.003-05:00

I have a feeling that these words have been uttered in the Dodger club house many times lately. What I think is funny right now is the joy in the Dodger Stadium crowd that someone with a Dodger uniform on can actually hit. It is as if the Dodger fans have no idea what to do with a Dodger who can hit.

I am no Manny Ramirez fan, but he is not Barry Bonds or Roger Clemens. He is a flake, and I am sure he will cause trouble at some point. But just once, it would be nice to see the Dodgers again be a threat again rather than an after thought. They used to be a powerhouse. They have won more NL pennants than any other team. With Manny on board, who knows, maybe that could happen again.

Answer

2008-07-27T19:36:00.001-05:00

According to a podameter, how many steps did Joel take at work on July 26...

Final Jeopardy

2008-07-26T22:31:00.000-05:00

The Final Jeopardy answer is:

Over 20000 on July 26, 2008

I'd Like Some Thoughts On This One...

2008-07-10T21:09:00.002-05:00

I had a thought today, and it's one of those things that I think is original, but it could be something that is everyday stuff for everyone except me.

Just as George Carlin used to have a list of oxymorons (postal service, jumbo shrimp, military intelligence, etc.). I think I came up with one today:

Incomplete sentence

Now think about this. A sentence is defined as a unit that contains a subject and a predicate. If a thought does not have these elements, it is not a sentence, but a phrase. So isn't the phrase incomplete sentence self defeating? Since a sentence by nature cannot be incomplete (since if it does not have a subject and a predicate, it is not a sentence), it would seem that the phrase "incomplete sentence" is nonsensical. Thoughts?

Ely, Minnesota

2008-07-04T16:42:00.004-05:00

Now we know what all the fuss is about. This week, the five of us traveled into "The Arrowhead" of Minnesota and spent four nights at a cabin on the lake in the woods. We played with the kids, sat by the lake, played with the kids, sat by the lake, slept, went to town, and did the whole thing over again. I really felt a great opportunity to connect with my wife and kids, and we saw some gorgeous and quiet scenery.

We drove to Ely via the North Shore of Lake Superior, which also warrants a vacation. As I sit here today, I am hardly "ready" to go back to work, but I am rejuvenated and happy to have had such a wonderful time.

The highlights? Well, I had to jump off the dock to fish Jack out of the water when he fell in the lake. Then, Jack proceeded to frolic in his altogether for a while -there are no photos of that to be found here :-)

We took a great hike to a waterfall (photo below), saw some awesome scenery, and enjoyed our cabin.

We found a great little coffee house that we visited three times for "elevensies".

We had campfires, canoed, and looked for critters. We saw wolf pups at the Wolf Center, and we had excellent pie by Lake Superior.

I got to hold and cuddle Wesley a lot, who couldn't have been happier at the cabin.

In a word, it was great. Just what we needed, and we hope we can do it again. I feel so happy that we finally got to see a large part of our adopted home state.

Oh, and did I mention the pie by Lake Superior?

Shout Out

2008-06-27T11:21:00.003-05:00

I'd like to give a hearty thank you to my wife, who left me in bed until 8:30 while she got up to get the kids going. I loved this for two reasons: first, I worked until almost 11:30 last night. and the extra sleep helped. Second, she sent the kids up to wake me up, and that is one of my favorite ways of waking up.

Three

2008-06-25T17:57:00.002-05:00

Jack is three today. I wrote this a year ago, and it still fits:

To Jack Emet

Truth is an illusive thing indeed-
It seems the search for it stretches to eternity.

Some claim to have a truth all their own-
while others claim to own it.

To me, truth has many faces.

I see it in my Lord’s suffering-
the piercing truth of his broken body

I see it in honest work-
that which I do to support my family.

And I see it in the silly grin of one little boy.

What can be true about him you say?

His life is a testimony
To the creative power of God

His smile represents
The joy the Father has in His creation.

And his name is truth.

When Jack was born, his health was a bit uncertain to us. He was very sleepy, and other circumstances made it such that we were quite sure he was OK, but were waiting for some results of a screen. He was and is fine, and the three years we have had with him have been a delight.

This year, he has become more independent. He has definitely shown himself to be in a "mom" phase, loving me but certainly wanting Steph to perform the actions he sees as his routine. As I saw him running his toy mower across the front lawn today, I thought about how different life was three years ago. He was born in Orange, CA, and we had no idea that we would be living in Minnesota just 9 months later. In fact, we knew almost nothing about our future. We only knew that we had our first son, and that he slept...a lot. He was the snuggliest of the three. The funny thing is that life is such a blur that one really has to slow down to remember some of the details. But the more I think, the more I remember those wonderful days when he entered our lives, and as he continues to grow, it is our privilege to see him grow in the knowledge of God. Plus, he really loves his puzzles, and how could you not love puzzles?

Happy Birthday little man, daddy loves you.

Who Cares?

2008-06-16T17:12:00.003-05:00

When one guy or team wins so much, where is the drama? Tiger has done so much good for golf, and carries himself so well, but there is no drama, and therefore, he makes golf boring. Some would say that the drama is how he wins, and that makes it exciting. That's where I just feel differently. He's too perfect (like the Yankees of old), and how can I care if I never see him lose? Like Jordan before him, he has become so much bigger than the game that the game is no longer entertaining for me. Oh well...at least we are seeing history...whoop dee doo.

Trip

2008-06-11T12:28:00.004-05:00

Well, we are back from our trip to Sun River, Oregon. Sun River is about 15 miles south of Bend, and it gave me, Steph and the kids the chance to see a part of the world that we had not seen yet. Bend is exploding as a city, and quite frankly I can see why. The setting is beautiful, and I'm sure that (at least, a few years ago), real estate was probably pretty reasonable.

Anyway, we stayed at the Sun River resort and enjoyed days of biking, playgrounding (not a word, I know), exploring, and relaxing. We stayed in a family member's home and were able to attend the wedding of my cousin. I wish we could have spent more time in Bend, as it seemed like a little town with a whole lot to offer, but the realities of this trip (and the fact that the kids aren't exactly as interested in urban stuff as their parents), kept our time in town to a minimum. More than anything, it gave us a chance to connect with some extended family that we have not been able to see much, living so far away. This was the first time my dad's fam has been totally represented in one place since Christmas '04, I think. For the Bascom family, that's actually a long time. On the way home, we enjoyed some incredible scenery driving through the Columbia River Gorge. All in all, it was a very busy but satisfying time. Here are some assorted photos of family:

Vacate

2008-06-04T10:48:00.001-05:00

Well....we're off to Oregon for a week.

We are looking forwad to some time away!

Big Boy Jack

2008-05-22T08:45:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was a big day for Jack. He had 4 nights in a row with dry pants over night (5 now), and as we did with Corrie, we let him pick out his own friend at Build a Bear. He chose an elephant, which he named Owen (with a little help from Mom and Dad). As you can see, Owen and Jack are instant friends, and it seems as though we have found a nice little tradition with our kids, as we let Corrie pick out a friend when she went several nights without wetting her pants.

These little milestones which seemed so absurd to me when I had no children become these great rites of passage for the kids. Corrie brought her friend to Build a Bear, gave it a bath, and could identify with Jack and was happy for him.

Here he is picking out the elephant, then stuffing him with fluff, and then here he is with Owen, in the store, in the car, and at home in the comfy car bed.

We are proud of our big little guy!

24 months

2008-05-17T19:50:00.003-05:00

We had a two year anniversary celebration at the store today. A lot has happened in two years. One thing that has really changed is we had the ability to actually have this party, whereas two years ago it was so crazy, it was all we could do to keep anything on the shelves.

Today, there was Famous Dave's BBQ for the crew, clowns in the store, ukuleles playing in front of the store, bag giveaways, and all of us wore party hats.

I am proud of the work I have been a part of here in the Twin Cities. It has had its ups and downs for me, but I can look back on it all with satisfaction.

New Blog

2008-05-06T13:14:00.002-05:00

I have created a movie blog, because I am self indulgent. It is linked to the left. Hope you enjoy it.

What a month

2008-04-29T11:12:00.005-05:00

As always, these four give me an anchor when life seems crazy. I am coming off a couple of months of relentless drama at work, and I'm glad I have them to see when I come home.

Why I Still Love Working at TJ's

2008-04-24T22:19:00.002-05:00

I spend 50 hours a week there. I expend vast amounts of physical and mental energy in that time.

I also never said to my folks when I was a kid, "Mommy, daddy, when I grow up, I wanna work in a grocery store."

But here's why I still love working at TJ's, in spite of it all.

I was coming home from TJU (a training program for TJ's full timers) in Chicago last night. At TJU, we are expected to wear our uniforms, and I had forgotten to remove my name tag before arriving at O'Hare. As I made my way through airport security, I had never given a thought to the fact that I still had my name tag on. I was also wearing a belt with a large, metallic buckle. As I went through the metal detector, the belt set it off. The TSA gentleman asked me, "What did you forget?" As I remembered my belt, I took it off. In that process, I had brushed back my sweater just enough to reveal my name tag. The TSA gentleman (hardly a group known for effusive behavior) then said to me, "You work for Trader Joe's?....I love Trader Joe's."

How many workplaces could bring out the warm fuzzies from the airport metal detector guy?

First in Line

2008-04-12T09:47:00.003-05:00

It occurs to me that who will be first in line in the kingdom will be a surprise to us. My wife and I were speaking of a favorite professor of ours in college who never had the accolades that some others had, but was possibly the finest professor I ever had. Steph and I were talking about this last night, and this morning we received word of the passing of Dr. Clyde Cook, former president of our alma mater, Biola University.

Clyde was beloved by the student body, but even with those accolades that he did receive, I have a feeling that he will be ahead of me "in line". He was unassuming and gracious, and when he made his retirement speech, he was typically self effacing and humble. Many times this is in itself a role people play to appear humble, but I think not with Clyde.

His kingdom is not of this world. In His kingdom, the most humble shall be lifted up.

Disney

2008-03-23T17:24:00.003-05:00

A funny thing happened between "Beauty and the Beast" (BB) and "Aladdin". I remember walking out of BB and thinking that this was a classic. And I still feel that way. When I walked out of Aladdin, I knew I had seen something rich with talent, but the word classic didn't enter into it.

I have mostly stayed away from Disney movies since then, with only occasional visitations. The Pixar films (usually associated with Disney, though the company was not actually owned by Disney until 2006) are the hallmarks of the same thing today. They are films of enormous technical prowess, yet the simple storytelling of BB and Pinocchio seem to be lost in the shuffle.

Enter "Enchanted", which we watched last night. This movie attempts to pay homage and poke fun at the Disney tradition. I was only slightly surprised to see how much the critics loved it. Critics have loved the new Disney films and the Pixar films, and those films have pretty much been lost on me. The Pixar flms at least have the technical wizardry and razor sharp dialogue. "Enchanted" was a mess. It had a clever premise, but in the rush to be too cool for school, Disney emerges with a mess, as they have for so long now.

Give me simple storytelling...I say it over and over. "Enchanted" wants it both ways: a simple fairy tale with the sharp edge of Manhattan. But in the process, it lost both.

A Conversation With Myself About Barak Obama

2008-03-22T20:44:00.002-05:00

Joel 1: I have every reason to vote for this guy. He is an inspiring presence, he seems to be an authentic, progressive voice, and he seems that he could be another step forward in the long struggle of the African American people to have an equal voice in our nation.

Joel 2: All this is true, but if you would only look closer, you would find that the actual things he stands for are not in line with your beliefs.

Joel 1: How can you say that? I want people to have health care. I want the poor in our country to be cared for, just as the scriptures say that they should be. I want the long struggle over race to continue to make progress. Also, I know, as I white American, that the injustices done to the African American race are truly egregious. What better way for me to be a part of the solution than to vote for this man, who seems to not only understand the plight of the poor African American, but also the frustration of the Middle Class American.

Joel 2: All true, but how does he actually wish to implement these changes? Does he want to make health care more affordable by scaling back government involvement? After all, the very poor don't pay for health care now as it is (because of Medicare), and if the government takes over health care, what incentive will the medical industry have to prosper if they have nothing to gain monetarily from it.

Joel 1: That's cynical. Why should the health care industry profit from giving people care they have no choice regarding.

Joel 2: Because that is how is prospers. How can innovation and progress take place in this world if there is nothing in it for people? And why draw the line with health care? Couldn't I make the argument that no 21st century American should have to pay for food to feed their family? As a grocer, I think you count on your company being profitable so that you can feed your family.

Joel 1: True, but what about the poor and the plight of the African American.

Joel 2: Those are tougher. The poor and the issues surrounding the poor should always be disquieting to you. The minute they lose that, Christ has lost a hold of your heart, and you have become unable to care for people as he does. But how do you think government will solve the issue? If there's one thing we can be sure of, it's that creation of more bureaucracy will line everyone's pockets but the poor. Also, the separation of church and state issues make it very difficult for private charities to use government funds. I hate to say it, but it looks like you are going to have to strive to be more involved with the poor yourself, because it is not possible for the government to do the job as well. True, people can eat and have a home due to government money, but does that bring them into their own? Does St. Paul not demand that a man work to feed his family.

Joel 1: But what about Africa? The problem there is not the inability to work, but a level of poverty that we cannot imagine here.

Joel 2: I agree. But the current president, as dissatisfied as both of us are with him, has given more money than any president to Africa. We can only hope the next president does the same, whoever it is. We also need to be more involved ourselves, because the organizations we support do more than the government could.

Joel 1: OK OK, but why shouldn't that next man be Obama? He seems to care for the downtrodden, and wants to endow the people with hope.

Joel 2: Yes, but what does he believe? You must vote and support based on ideas, not how one makes you feel or what someone seems to be. You believe the greatest issue of any campaign is one that hasn't even been raised, the unjustified killing of millions of unborn children. Mr. Obama is for the status quo. True, he may wish to invest tax dollars in young people and protect the vulnerable, but how can you forget the fact that he isn't willing to protect the most vulnerable and weakest among us?

Joel 1: Fair enough. But I just want to make the evils of racism go away so much, and voting for him would seem to help that.

Joel 2: I understand. But you can't vote for someone because of their skin color without regard for their belief. That is insulting to the person and takes away his dignity. You owe it to him to support him because you support his ideas, not because you support his skin color.

Joel 1: OK. I gotta go...but this isn't over.

Joel 2: It never will be.

Good Friday in Minneapolis

2008-03-21T15:44:00.004-05:00

As you will see from the photos, we are having a truly Minnesota Good Friday. We have had a wonderful day. Steph and I attended a wonderful church service downtown while her parents watched the kids. The message was wonderful, emphasizing God's sovereign act of our salvation. There was also some gospel tinged worship which made it a very refreshing experience for us.

Tonight, Steph and I are going out for a quiet dinner. We are grateful to her parents who are always willing to help out with these dates.

In the middle of this Good Friday, I took the kids out (along with their papa) for a romp in the snow on this, the first day of spring.

At the same time, this day always has that tinge of poignancy because of what Jesus did for us. This morning, I turned on Bach's St. Matthew's Passion for awhile. At one point, Corrie came in the room. She seemed uncomfortable with the tone of the music. I explained to her that it was written by Bach, and that the people singing were singing about the time when Jesus died for us. She kept asking questions about the death of Jesus. She held up her little king doll with his crown, and I asked her what crown did Jesus wear..."A crown of thorns," she said. "Daddy," she continued, "I wouldn't like a crown of thorns on my head." She expressed her love for God. And then an interesting thing happened. She came out with one of her cries when she isn't really crying (at other times, I would call it a phony cry). But this time, it was clear that she was kind of sad. I asked her if she wanted to hear other, happier music, and she didn't want to. It was as if (this is only my interpretation) she felt like she wanted to hear this sad music for a time, since I had explained to her what it was. After a bit, she expressed a desire to hear happy music, but only if it was "grown up music." I put in Handel's Messiah, and Corrie instantly recognized the "Hallelujah Chorus" from her Handel kids' CD. Jack came out and we danced around the living room for awhile. As we danced to the Hallelujah chorus this morning, Corrie repeatedly asked me, "Daddy, is this the very good ending?" (Corrie has a children's Bible in which the final chapter has the title, "The Very Good Ending.")

I may be reading too much in to this, but it struck me that we are all like this to a degree. We need to focus on the magnitude of the suffering of Christ, for it is there that we see his amazing love for us. But we move ahead to the Resurrection, for the suffering of Christ accomplishes nothing with out his victory.

Yes Corrie, this is the very good ending.

5

2008-03-19T14:58:00.003-05:00

So Corrie is 5. I thought to myself the other day, "She can't be turning 5, because she had just turned 3 when we moved to Minnesota, and it hasn't been two years since we moved to Minnesota...oh wait..."

I have written many effusive blogs about my kids, and I am sure I will write more in the future.

This time, I wish to reflect on her silliness, and how much she loves her brothers, and how much she has become her own little person. Last night, as we watched American Idol, she danced with each song, yearning for the applause of us, her audience. She loves making her baby brother laugh, and she is pretty much his favorite person in the world.

5 really seems like she is a girl, and not a little girl, or anything else. She loves reading, and it is fun to watch as she learns to love some of the things I loved (Tom and Jerry), and act in ways I don't usually act (she is a performer at heart).

Corrie Hesed Bascom has been with us 5 years. I know not what the future holds, but these 5 years have been great.

Scratching the surface of Country

2008-02-28T17:20:00.004-06:00

While in California, I spoke with my dad about how country music was a final frontier for me in a life that (I like to think) pursues an interest in all sorts of artistic expression. When I entered young adulthood, one thing that was made anathema to me by my peers was any sort of enjoyment of country music. Looking back, I suppose the reaction was mainly against the country music of the 90's, but I know that the blacklist moved beyond that.

As for so many people, Johnny Cash has proven to be my doorway into this world of music. I am still in the entryway, for I have done so little exploring.

There is a difference in culture. I grew up in a suburban environment completely away from the rural flavor and beer swilling culture depicted in the music. But the more one listens to any music, it's the universal elements that begin to rise to the top.

Since entering the door with Cash, names such as Haggard, Williams, Dixie Chicks and Harris have been added to my collection. And Gram Parson's music has become a love of mine. I think it is only the beginning, since there is so much left for me to experience.

February

2008-02-28T16:57:00.003-06:00

It was an eventful month for our little family. The big thing we did was go to California, but the month began in Minneapolis. Here's Jack on a little trip to our local playground in the snow.

Jack thought that he was using this toy lawn mower in order to shovel snow. The notion that his grandson did not recognize a lawn mower deeply saddened his granddad.

We had a good visit, and Wes got acquainted with the fam. He's getting to know his Uncle Jeremy here.

We ate out a lot, which I am all for. Here's a photo of the five of us before a Sunday Brunch at the El Torito Grill

The trip concluded with celebrating Biola University's 100th birthday. Here's a photo of Steph and I with my sister and brother in law at the celebration gala.

All in all, it was a good trip. It's always kind of a blur. We got to see a lot of folks that we haven't seen in awhile.

A Good Photo of the Three of Them

2008-01-22T09:56:00.001-06:00

Weather Report Words and Phrases I Never Heard Growing Up

2008-01-21T11:07:00.000-06:00

Frigid
Numbing
Bone chilling
Severe
Frostbite Warning
Wind Chill
Bitter
Arctic Blast
Alberta Clipper
Use this time to clean your basement
Weekend warm front brings highs in the 20s
Snow Advisory
Accumulation
Make sure your skin is not exposed
Subzero

Oh Canada...

2008-01-19T15:18:00.000-06:00

If anyone wondered why I am a quasi libertarian (I know, I know, all of you are on pins and needles) who views the impending takeover of the medical industry by our government with suspicion, check this out:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/news/imprimis.asp

I lose no sleep over socialism, knowing that it is a very minor issue compared with issues God cares about. The issues God does care about will never be solved unless His people decide to combat them in each of their own ways. But this piece is freaking hilarious. None of the things he describes are immoral, but it is funny how inefficient and cumbersome the status quo can actually be.

Yes...I am that Annoyingly Happy

2008-01-17T23:12:00.000-06:00

Today at work, I had someone ask me how I am always so cheerful when I work 50 hours a week, and then have to go home to three kids.

I'll admit, I get tired. There are trade offs for every decision we make. But more often than not, the tired part is because of work, and the kids at home give me the strength to combat my world.

Jack is turning into a hobbit. His car bed is starting to remind me of Frodo's Hobbit Hole. He enjoys the comforts of life, and doesn't ever seem to be in a hurry. He's at that age where every sentence he says sounds amazing to his parents, and every thing he does seems special because it's his first time.

Corrie is suddenly a little girl. She understands things in new ways every day. She's reading. And she has a very special place in our hearts. Not unlike the scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz, she's been with us the longest. She was born in Illinois, and has lived in three states in her almost 5 years of life. She remembers so much too. She'll say things, and I have to remember what she's talking about. She also can recite large portions of Winnie the Pooh, and is delighted by the fact that I can as well. Here's a picture from our father-daughter frolic in the newly fallen snow on Christmas day.

And Wesley is another reminder of the fleeting uniqueness of infancy. Tonight, I was putting his siblings to bed, and I could hear him fussing. After I was finished, I went into the living room and picked him up, and the crying ceased. He just wanted to be held. How simple it is, and how wondrous.

I say all this despite the crappy pants and the challenges to my and Steph's authority. How great of a mirror they are into our own relations with God. What a great reminder of his grace and mercy.

And oh how I wish I could sleep until 10:30 tomorrow morning :)

The Most Beautiful Thing in the World

2008-01-17T23:02:00.001-06:00

What is it, you ask? It's our furnace. Currently, it's 3 degrees and falling, and this beige box here is the most precious thing we own right now.

You bet I have an insurance policy on it. For 15 bucks a month, I am assured that if anything happens to this baby, I get another one.

The US Pond Hockey Championships begin tomorrow in our backyard, and I'm wondering that it may be too cold for ice hockey. Yes, too cold for ice hockey.

But this weather is an essential part of being a Minnesotan. The pleasures of summer are tempered by the reality of winter. And the harshness of winter is combated by a beige box and the spirit that refuses to cancel a hockey tournament despite the danger of frostbite. The phrase I hear is that the coldest days of winter are our payment for how glorious our summers are. Nothing could be truer, or more Minnesotan.

Settling In

2008-01-12T11:33:00.000-06:00

So another Holiday Season is behind us. Since I believe strongly that there are two holidays celebrated in December instead of merely one, I can be sad that one of them is over, while being relieved that I have made it through another Holiday Season. Now, we settle in for some months of cold, snowy weather. The mercury is supposed to be below zero in a week, so we will be finding indoor alternatives in our activities.

One thing that it looks like will be taken care of is the selling of our old car. We are waiting for a gentleman to come pick up our old car today, since we finally went ahead and bought a minivan for our increasing family. May I just add that my wife and I are not cut out to be salespeople? I will be relieved when this is over, though happy with the extra money that we can put away.

Steph and I celebrated another anniversary on Tuesday. Each year gets better, and I am happy with who God gave to me. We celebrated a week ago with dinner and a movie (Italian dinner, and Juno was the movie), and on the actual day we decided it would be appropriate to celebrate with our kids.

We are going to CA again for the first time in awhile next month. Some school called "Biola" (someone told me my family has a connection to it-I remain skeptical) is celebrating its centennial, and we look forward to seeing family and friends. We also look forward to introducing Wes to some folks who haven't met him, including his Uncle and cousins.

It feels like we are settling in here in Minneapolis once and for all. Our family is (probably) complete with three kids, we are in our home, and we have a car in which to haul everyone around. Though so much has changed, things seem eerily familiar. I don't know what that means, but it sounded cool.

Indy

2008-01-05T16:35:00.000-06:00

My parents bought me the Indiana Jones Trilogy on DVD for Christmas. The interesting thing about it was though it was on my Amazon wishlist, I still had never sat through all of the second installment of that Trilogy, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. When I was 9, this film came out and I was very excited. I had watched Raiders of the Lost Ark and loved it (though it was in the safe confines of our home with appropriate scenes edited :) ). I was very excited when Temple of Doom was released, and disappointed (but totally trusting in my parents) when my folks wouldn't allow me to see it. I can remember the buzz when it came out about how violent it was, and I remember thinking to myself, "I won't be allowed to see it."

5 years later, I saw and enjoyed Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but had no desire to see Temple of Doom because of what I had always heard about it.

Well, my vote is now in, and it is a good piece of work. My parents were totally right in not letting me see it. Had they done so, they would have been up in the middle of the night dealing with my nightmares. They knew me, and they knew there was no way I could handle the dark intensity of this film. It is clearly intended for mature audiences. But what amazed me upon watching it now was how relatively short the horrifying scenes are. Though they are troubling and violent, they are the climax of the film, not the entire setting. The film is like a slow descent into this hellish world, and the adventure for Indy is how in the hell (almost literally) is he going to get out. It gets weirder and darker until it reaches its nadir in the Temple of Doom. Then Jones and his entourage complete their mission, and Indiana Jones is a wiser man (supposedly).

Make no mistake, this is the weakest of the three films. The heroine is good for a few laughs, but spends way too much time screaming. It makes sense that Jar Jar Binks came from the same mind. Though George Lucas gets stuff right so often, sometimes there are misfires, and I think the woman in this film is too whiny and takes away, even though she's supposed to be there for comic relief. Also, the whimsy of the 1st and 3rd films is missing. Though this film is strong (the action never lets up, and the sets and conceptualizing of the piece are extraordinary), it lacks the sort of wink that the other two have.

All in all, it is a good addition to the whole mythology. The trilogy as a whole completely buys into a supernatural view of the world, and that fascinates me. Yes, it is fantasy, but fantasy in a somewhat real world. The folks who raid the Ark in the first film are not aliens, but Nazis, a people who actually existed. In Last Crusade, the Nazis again serve as the villains. In Temple of Doom, the setting is a colonized India where the British are a presence. In a post enlightenment world, the complete belief these films have in the supernatural fascinates me. Indy is not a victim of parlor tricks in the temple of Doom, the cult has genuine evil power. The Ark and the Holy Grail are seen to have power in the other two films. I am not saying these pieces are theologically sound, but their worldview seems different than the world in which we find ourselves.

Long story short, I give this message to my parents: good call when I was 9, and thanks for the great Christmas gift! :)

Our White Christmas

2007-12-25T19:23:00.001-06:00

Today was the snowiest Christmas day in 25 years in Minneapolis. It was idyllic. No commuting for me, nowhere to be, and all the time in the world for the kids to enjoy what today had for us. Here's a synopsis:

Corrie ran up to our room to wish us a Merry Christmas, and was thrilled to find gifts in the living room:
She spent time with Wes:

Jack got to put the Baby Jesus in the Manger on our advent calendar

Jack enjoyed his Harold the Helicopter Toy

Corrie loves those Disney Princesses

Both the kids love their new Thomas the Tank Engine tent

Wes and I did some hanging out!

Then Corrie and I shoveled snow

And Corrie insisted upon going to our local playground, which was covered with snow. But the loader could still move snow!

After this we headed home. Corrie declared our home "the land of cocoa", because "all of the people make cocoa there."

It was quite a day. The evening news' top story was the fact that we had a White Christmas, and it was a beautiful sight:

Merry Christmas!

The Serious, Sappy Christmas Post

2007-12-25T13:52:00.000-06:00

As the snow flakes drift down onto our already stunningly beautiful snowy landscape today, many things come to mind:

-A recent promotion at work has brought some exciting and difficult challenges. Some of the challenges directly related to this time of year make it very difficult to filter them. This time of year begins to feel like its more trouble than it's worth. I deal with this by realizing that I celebrate a different holiday than most folks in the world.

-People are unable to accept grace. If someone receives a gift, they feel obligated to return the favor. This could not be more true than when it comes to the Messiah. Since we have nothing to give back to God but our thanks, I think it makes it that much more difficult for people to accept Christian truth.

-Why does snow add so much? I spent many happy Christmases as a child in Southern California with no snow. I guess it can be a sort of icing on the cake. To look across the street and see post card worthy beauty is wonderful. Across the street, the neighbor's pine tree in the front yard is decorated with lights. And there is a certain glow which emanates from the light when snow covers the lights. It makes the lights glow in a different way. Saturday, my parents got out of town just before a snow storm that freshened up our landscape, and made the tree tops glisten.

-The light of the world came to a frozen landscape. He came at a time when we all cherish warmth the most. The light of the world thaws our frozen hearts and enables us to receive him. How appropriate that we celebrate his coming at a time of bitter cold and short daylight. The great light of the world came into our hearts and minds in a land where it was always winter, and never Christmas.

Vindication

2007-12-13T14:55:00.000-06:00

Those of you who have known me awhile know that at the mention of the name Roger Clemens, my blood pressure goes up. I have maintained for quite some time that he is and was a bad thing for baseball. This belief was cemented into place by the event depicted in the photograph to the left. In the photo, Roger Clemens is throwing a bat shard at (or toward) Mike Piazza. (As an aside, for those who don't know, there was history to this. Earlier in the season during interleague play, Piazza had hit Clemens very well, and Clemens proceeded to hit Piazza in the head and give him a serious enough concussion that Piazza was forced to sit out the All Star Game). This bat throwing incident happened when the stakes couldn't be higher. It was months later in the World Series, and Clemens was in the early part of the game. After the incident, Piazza walked toward Clemens with a look on his face that said, "Are you nuts?" Until that moment, my general disdain for the Mets had forced me to root for the Yankees, but Clemens' action and his teammates total support for him pushed me into rooting for the Mets. Also, the fact that Clemens was allowed to play and pitch a 2 (or 3, I can't remember) hitter told me that Major League Baseball (MLB) had no guts to deal with criminal behavior in their game.

Since that awful night, I have held Roger Clemens in contempt. I always thought him to be a fine pitcher and worthy of the Hall of Fame, but I was always puzzled by the accolades he would receive in spite of his brutish behavior. He was called "a fierce competitor," "intense," as well as other things meant to denote a positive competitive streak. And I have long thought him to be suspicious in terms of the steroid controversy. It seemed odd to me that a 44 year old could still be so dominant. But for some reason, all the flak went onto Barry Bonds, mostly because the press, for some reason, likes Clemens but not Bonds.

So today, I felt vindicated (but also saddened for baseball and its fans) to see Clemens' name appear in the George Mitchell report on steroid use in baseball. I hope that the press and baseball fans everywhere can begin to see him for who is truly is: a brilliant pitcher whose intense desire to win drove him to unhealthy extremes and excesses. No more can we all pretend to be horrified by the activities of Barry Bonds and turn a blind eye to "the ones we like." He should have been booked on assault charges that night in 2000, so I hope that now he doesn't dodge consequences yet again. What those consequences are is hard to say. MLB and the players union cooperated to make this mess, so it seems odd to keep these folks out of Cooperstown. But my hope is that the tarnish this brings to the game will wake up the establishment and its fans and bring consequences to those who have soiled this great game and its cherished records.

The Boy Can Eat (and Count, Apparently)

2007-12-12T08:59:00.000-06:00

Monday we went to the local Pannekoeken Huis (a Minnesota establishment that features amazing pancake-like delicacies called Pannekoeken) by my work. The kids had pancakes, and I cut up Jack's pancakes. After I had cut up the pancakes and dumped some of the syrup on them, he started eating. After a few minutes, he looked up at me and said longingly, "MORE SYRUP."

I proceeded to dump more of the syrup, though not all. I returned to my delicious Pineapple Pannekoeken for a few more minutes, only to hear yet again, "MORE SYRUP." At this, I drained the syrup cup and allowed him to enjoy all of the syrup which he was allocated.

Today, when the boy did his business on the potty, he got his typical chocolate treat for so doing. I reached in the bag of M&Ms and took out 3 of them (my usual ration for him). As he began eating them, he said to me, "I want four."

I guess he knows how to count too.