This weekend was very relaxing. After the week we all had it was nice to take it easy. I kinda worked at my own pace. On Saturday I had to wmw the lawn at the church and mowed ours as well.
Sunday-church in the morning and resting/lounging in the afternoon. In the evening we went to Steve and Linda's for Daniel's birthday party. We entered their house at the end of a church potluck and ice cream social. It was a little awkward because we don't go to their church. The family party was nice.
Tonight we had a Parent Meeting at Vista. I think I was placed in charge of this group. We are organizing to become a PTA. We had a great group of parents and staff at this evening's meeting. I have been concerned about the parking event this weekend. It requires about 20 people, we have an average of 13. The last minute push is on................
Weather today was incredible! 93 degrees and beautiful. It is suppose to be like this throughout the weekend.
-Norm
Monday, September 25, 2006
Friday, September 22, 2006
What A Busy Week!
This has been an incredibly busy week. Monday evening involved two meetings, Site Council and Parent Forum. At both of these meetings I pushed parking cars at the Monster Truck Nationals. I hope we have enough people each night.
Most of the activity was centered around the local Business Expo which happened yesterday. A design and booth building excerise I take on each year. This year I was/am a little more pressed for time so it was definately last minute. The theme was "building blocks". I spent time painting boxes to look like concrete bricks for our backdrop. I then applied pictures of our client engaged in work. We arrived prior to the expo to set up. It came together as planned. The various types of assembly/packaging products we have done were placed on the "block" boxes. We also added video projection of pictures and people on the various crews we have. We received many compliments. I am glad to be done.
Tonight, Hope has her first Junior High/Middle School dance. We will be chaperons. I have been kidding her all week about embarrasing her. I wouldn't do that to her. I think this evening will be fun. Tina and I will both be guarding the troops. Following this evenings activity I am going to rest, rest, rest.
Weather today, I had to drive the car to work (instead of the scooter) due to heavy winds. It is a very blustery day and near 85 degrees.
-Norm
Most of the activity was centered around the local Business Expo which happened yesterday. A design and booth building excerise I take on each year. This year I was/am a little more pressed for time so it was definately last minute. The theme was "building blocks". I spent time painting boxes to look like concrete bricks for our backdrop. I then applied pictures of our client engaged in work. We arrived prior to the expo to set up. It came together as planned. The various types of assembly/packaging products we have done were placed on the "block" boxes. We also added video projection of pictures and people on the various crews we have. We received many compliments. I am glad to be done.
Tonight, Hope has her first Junior High/Middle School dance. We will be chaperons. I have been kidding her all week about embarrasing her. I wouldn't do that to her. I think this evening will be fun. Tina and I will both be guarding the troops. Following this evenings activity I am going to rest, rest, rest.
Weather today, I had to drive the car to work (instead of the scooter) due to heavy winds. It is a very blustery day and near 85 degrees.
-Norm
Sunday, September 17, 2006
What's Been Going On Lately
I finally did it. Since we first got the internet I had put an extension cord from a plug-in the back bedroom to our family room. This worked for a while and would occasionally cut out due to moisture. With our recent purchase of a laptop and DSL we needed another connection in the family room. I climbed up into the attic, hardwired the connection, cut a hole in the wall, installed a box and hooked up the receptical. It works great! Until this was done the laptop had been sitting on the dining room table. Now we sit in the family room surf the net and watch t.v. all at the same time. This is great!
We still have the interactive equipment for sale. We are selling a boxing ring, sumo suits, and the human gyro. People have expressed interest in all three. It will be great to have this chapter of our life done. I think we have found buyers for the gyro and boxing ring.
I have started my job search in Tennessee. We are all leaning toward Knoxville. I am getting excited about moving. We are going to have to sell our home which means getting it ready to sell. There isn't much to do except minor things on the house itself and alot of stuff in the backyard.
Weather today: It has cooled down alot! Temperatures have been in the mid 80's. It has been real windy in the evenings on the ride home. Wind combined with big semi trucks while riding a lightweight motorcycle are not a good combo.
but ya gotta love this weather!!!!!!!!
-Norm
We still have the interactive equipment for sale. We are selling a boxing ring, sumo suits, and the human gyro. People have expressed interest in all three. It will be great to have this chapter of our life done. I think we have found buyers for the gyro and boxing ring.
I have started my job search in Tennessee. We are all leaning toward Knoxville. I am getting excited about moving. We are going to have to sell our home which means getting it ready to sell. There isn't much to do except minor things on the house itself and alot of stuff in the backyard.
Weather today: It has cooled down alot! Temperatures have been in the mid 80's. It has been real windy in the evenings on the ride home. Wind combined with big semi trucks while riding a lightweight motorcycle are not a good combo.
but ya gotta love this weather!!!!!!!!
-Norm
Friday, September 08, 2006
More Hip Than We Know We Are......
The following story appeared on the Yahoo News Service today......
US drivers hop on scooters to dodge rising gas prices
by Virginie Montet
Mon Sep 4, 7:03 PM ET
WASHINGTON (AFP) - With rising gas prices an increasing number of US drivers have hopped on scooters, long a favorite in parts of the world familiar with pricey gasoline.
Karl Levithan, retired at 55, tools around the Washington suburbs on his silver Vespa from April to November while the weather is agreeable.
"Sometimes, less is more," he said, noting that fuel is often more than three dollars per gallon (3.8 liter) now. "Americans should think about more efficient means of transportation."
Scooters get a whopping 60 to 80 miles (97 to 129 kilometers) per gallon of gas compared to fuel hungry cars which average 20 miles (32 kilometers).
This year is set to mark a record in scooter sales although the streets are far from resembling traffic in Milan.
"The big markets are urban markets, vacation destinations and college towns," said Mike Mount, spokesman for the Motorcycle Industry Council.
According to the industry group, 113,000 scooters were sold in 2005, up 18 percent from the year before.
The market is led by Japanese makers Honda and Yamaha, but storied Italian brand Vespa from Piaggio, which was pulled from the market in 1985 because of pollution problems, made a big splash went it was reintroduced in 2000 with retro looking models.
The maker has 180 stores around the country with the most sales in the cities of New York, Boston, San Francisco, Seattle on the Pacific coast, and Dallas, Texas, according to Piaggio Americas spokeswoman Kathleen Reynolds.
Randy Campbell opened a shop in Dallas three years ago and will open a second in a few weeks in near-by Fort Worth, Texas.
"The more you see them riding the more they are gaining popularity," he said. He said his clients are mostly between the ages of 35 and 55 and that 40 percent or more are women. Half are buying the scooters, which sell for between 3,000 and 4,000 dollars, for pleasure, a quarter for economy and "some for the hip-cool."
Suburban rider Levithan agreed that the look helped.
"The more retro it is, the better it is," he said. He added that scooters are "more socially accepted" than motorcycles. "People smile at it."
The service manager at Campbell's university-town store, Rian Sumner, also noted that riders skew older.
"More professors are riding them than students who get big cars with air conditioning," he said.
But in Washington, where gasoline is more expensive than in Texas, prices are driving scooters' popularity, according to Gerry Helfgott, an Italian who opened a Vespa store in the nation's capital.
However, two wheels cannot replace four and Campbell said few of his customers use scooters as their only mode of transport.
But, he said, "a few customers replace their second car with a scooter."
The northwest city of Boise, Idaho, has only 200,000 residents but Valery Aker sells about 20 scooters per month at her two-year-old shop.
"The more people see them, the more they like the idea," she said. "And they are fun."
US drivers hop on scooters to dodge rising gas prices
by Virginie Montet
Mon Sep 4, 7:03 PM ET
WASHINGTON (AFP) - With rising gas prices an increasing number of US drivers have hopped on scooters, long a favorite in parts of the world familiar with pricey gasoline.
Karl Levithan, retired at 55, tools around the Washington suburbs on his silver Vespa from April to November while the weather is agreeable.
"Sometimes, less is more," he said, noting that fuel is often more than three dollars per gallon (3.8 liter) now. "Americans should think about more efficient means of transportation."
Scooters get a whopping 60 to 80 miles (97 to 129 kilometers) per gallon of gas compared to fuel hungry cars which average 20 miles (32 kilometers).
This year is set to mark a record in scooter sales although the streets are far from resembling traffic in Milan.
"The big markets are urban markets, vacation destinations and college towns," said Mike Mount, spokesman for the Motorcycle Industry Council.
According to the industry group, 113,000 scooters were sold in 2005, up 18 percent from the year before.
The market is led by Japanese makers Honda and Yamaha, but storied Italian brand Vespa from Piaggio, which was pulled from the market in 1985 because of pollution problems, made a big splash went it was reintroduced in 2000 with retro looking models.
The maker has 180 stores around the country with the most sales in the cities of New York, Boston, San Francisco, Seattle on the Pacific coast, and Dallas, Texas, according to Piaggio Americas spokeswoman Kathleen Reynolds.
Randy Campbell opened a shop in Dallas three years ago and will open a second in a few weeks in near-by Fort Worth, Texas.
"The more you see them riding the more they are gaining popularity," he said. He said his clients are mostly between the ages of 35 and 55 and that 40 percent or more are women. Half are buying the scooters, which sell for between 3,000 and 4,000 dollars, for pleasure, a quarter for economy and "some for the hip-cool."
Suburban rider Levithan agreed that the look helped.
"The more retro it is, the better it is," he said. He added that scooters are "more socially accepted" than motorcycles. "People smile at it."
The service manager at Campbell's university-town store, Rian Sumner, also noted that riders skew older.
"More professors are riding them than students who get big cars with air conditioning," he said.
But in Washington, where gasoline is more expensive than in Texas, prices are driving scooters' popularity, according to Gerry Helfgott, an Italian who opened a Vespa store in the nation's capital.
However, two wheels cannot replace four and Campbell said few of his customers use scooters as their only mode of transport.
But, he said, "a few customers replace their second car with a scooter."
The northwest city of Boise, Idaho, has only 200,000 residents but Valery Aker sells about 20 scooters per month at her two-year-old shop.
"The more people see them, the more they like the idea," she said. "And they are fun."
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
I Forgot To Add.....
when we came home yesterday from JF we walked into the house to find the dog had somehow opened the back door. He had been running amuck for three days! The playroom was cluttered with the stuffing of Grace's American Girl doll. A pair of shoes were history. Later, Grace came in saying "I don't think he likes me". She was holding her other doll that also had the insides ripped out. When we went into our bedroom-Mitchell had spent a great deal of time there. The sheets were shredded and had to be thrown away. He also wet on our bed. I could have hurt him!!!!
Last night, Tina suggested that we watch a movie she had rented "Pay It Forward". It is based on a school assignment given to a student where he is to come up with a way to change the world. I really liked it! I am not going to tell you any more about it, but highly suggest viewing this film. It is diffinately worth the watch.
-Norm
Last night, Tina suggested that we watch a movie she had rented "Pay It Forward". It is based on a school assignment given to a student where he is to come up with a way to change the world. I really liked it! I am not going to tell you any more about it, but highly suggest viewing this film. It is diffinately worth the watch.
-Norm
JoshFest-Summer Camp For Families!
We returned yesterday from Joshua Fest in Quincy. It was a great weekend filled great concerts, ministry and family time. We arrived late on Friday evening, just before 10:00 Pm. Our goal was to see Skillet. They were scheduled to play at 10:00. We had a previous goal of seeing Family Force 5 at 7:15 but didn't make it (bummer!). The JoshFest staff does an amazing job! They allowed us to park our car out front and unload following the concert. Then they transported all our stuff via golfcarts to our campsite. We set up camp in a horsebarn. It was nice except the mosquitoes. We lived with them.
Skillet was great!
Saturday morning included a Praise and Worship service and getting acclimated to our surroundings. The afternoon lineup was incredible! Transistor Radio,
The Finalists-I had never heard this group before. They were good.
I needed a shower so I missed Paul Wright.
Krystal Meyers-
Dizmas-These guys also do a great concert! I have seen them the past three years.
Falling Up-I enjoy this band.
Hawk Nelson-This has to be our family's favorite. We were allowed into the Youth Pastor's interview session. These guys are great musicians who happen to be Christians. I love good, fun, positive music.
Pillar-Their first time at this festival. I didn't really know what to expect. I did not walk away disappointed. Their drummer was awesome!
Sunday began with Praise and Worship that was truely annointed and the message "Who's Your Daddy". It was a great time of being together with so many different family members from so many different churches and areas.
EverStaysRed-a personal favorite of mine. They have a new cd coming out in October, can't wait to get it!
Inhabited- I hadn't heard of this band either. They have a female lead singer.
Storyside B-
Disciple-
Project 86-
Seventh Day Slumber-I had only heard their music on the radio. I kept finding myself thinking "oh they did that song...". As part of their concert the lead singer Joseph shared his testimony. What an incredible time of ministry. The Holy Spirit was there walking and working among us. Whew!
Thousand Foot Krutch-These guys never disappoint. A great way to end an incredible festival.
Hats off to Aaron, Chris and the whole crew who put JFest together. Also all the bands for their hearts and desire to minister to people.
Weather today-101 degrees and clear today. The mornings are staying cooler longer. It was alittle chilly on the ride in today.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Joshua Fest Is Today!!!
Well, it's finally here! We leave for JF this afternoon and will be seeing some of the greatest Christian alternative bands in existance. I purchased four new sleeping bags because it gets a little chilly up there in the hills. I am really looking forward to seeing Skillet tonight. Tina went and saw them in Paradise some time ago. Dizmas is also a must see this weekend. Also on the list is Hawk Nelson, Falling Up, Pillar and Thousand Foot Krutch.
On another note, this was Open House week. On Wednesday evening we attended Vista. What a great evening. Alot of parents were there and alot of energy was in the air. We were very concerned and even scared about Hope attending this school. She seems happy and is enjoying it. We really enjoyed meeting Hope's teachers. I think she will do well.
On Thursday evening we attended Jackson Heights' Open House. I love this school and the staff. We have invested much time into making it a great place to send our children. Last night was the first time I'd been on campus since school started. Tina and I really like Grace's teacher, but then again they're all good!
It is time to go and get the Fest started. See you Monday when I won't be able to hear as well.
Current weather 99 and clear. It should be nice in Quincy. See you there..............
-Norm
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
We've Got Jokes Today.....
One of my clients came in today with a sheet full of jokes for me. I thought I'd post them here for everyone to enjoy!
Q) Why did the skeleton go to the movies by himself?
A) He had no body to go with him.
Q) What does a bee sit on?
A) His bee-hind.
Q) Where do cows go to have fun?
A) To the moo-vies.
Q) Why don't lobsters share?
A) Because they are shellfish.
Q) Why was the policeman in bed?
A) Because he was an undercover cop.
Q) Which runs faster, hot or cold?
A) Hot. Everyone can catch a cold.
Q) What does Christmas have to do with a cat in a desert?
A) They both have sandy claws.
Q) What do you call a pony with a cough?
A) A little hoarse.
Current weather: 98 degrees and a little breezy. What a great day. Last night was a parent forum at Hope's Middle School. A good number of parents all wanting to make the school better. Looks like it's going to be a great year!
Only 3 more days until JoshFest 06. Tomorrow August 30 is Hope's 12th birthday!! I'm a proud daddy of the two best girls in the world.
-Norm
Q) Why did the skeleton go to the movies by himself?
A) He had no body to go with him.
Q) What does a bee sit on?
A) His bee-hind.
Q) Where do cows go to have fun?
A) To the moo-vies.
Q) Why don't lobsters share?
A) Because they are shellfish.
Q) Why was the policeman in bed?
A) Because he was an undercover cop.
Q) Which runs faster, hot or cold?
A) Hot. Everyone can catch a cold.
Q) What does Christmas have to do with a cat in a desert?
A) They both have sandy claws.
Q) What do you call a pony with a cough?
A) A little hoarse.
Current weather: 98 degrees and a little breezy. What a great day. Last night was a parent forum at Hope's Middle School. A good number of parents all wanting to make the school better. Looks like it's going to be a great year!
Only 3 more days until JoshFest 06. Tomorrow August 30 is Hope's 12th birthday!! I'm a proud daddy of the two best girls in the world.
-Norm
Sunday, August 27, 2006
New Computer and DSL
Well our computer at home has gone to Desk Top Heaven. It kept crashing and we didn't know why. We took it in to Best Buy to have it looked at and they told us the sad new. The circuits in the motherboard had got hot, expanded and had fluid leaking from them. This is not a good thing. The computer was toast. The next step was to purchase a new one. Tina and I decided a lap top was the way we wanted to go this time. We ended up purchasing a Toshiba Satellite M105-S3041. It has all the bells and whistles we were looking for and then some. The CD/DVD player and burner is my personal favorite. I was able to take the old documents and pictures from the old computer (in between frequent shutdowns). It was time consuming and very frustrating, but it is done. We also went from dial-up to DSL. What an amazing thing and so fast!!! I am sure glad to have been able to save our old information and take this computer thing to the next level.
Today Hope and Grace`were in a children's musical at church. They both did and excellent job. Following church we went to lunch with the Greers and Fergusons. What a great time. We are blessed to have such great friends. They encourage me and are genuine. Lunch was at Round Table Pizza. Good friends, good conversation and good food.
Only 4 more days until Joshua Fest!!
Weather today 92 degrees and a slight breeze. A good day overall.
-Norm
Today Hope and Grace`were in a children's musical at church. They both did and excellent job. Following church we went to lunch with the Greers and Fergusons. What a great time. We are blessed to have such great friends. They encourage me and are genuine. Lunch was at Round Table Pizza. Good friends, good conversation and good food.
Only 4 more days until Joshua Fest!!
Weather today 92 degrees and a slight breeze. A good day overall.
-Norm
Saturday, August 19, 2006
The Power of Story
I picked up a book the other day-Stories of Emergence, Moving from Absolute to Authentic. It is a collection of articles written by various authors regarding the Emerging Church. The first article is written by Mike Yaconelli. Mike was the founder of Youth Specialities and also a pastor in Yreka, California. He was killed in an automobile accident a couple years ago. I think we could have been friends.
I have been thinking alot about what he has written regarding the Power of Story. He states that "stories descibe our interaction with God, the tale of God's presence or lack of it in our lives. Stories are the playground of out faith, the place where the logic of our beliefs gets tested by the illogical experiences of our lives, the workplace where our ideas about God run head on into the real God. Our stories are the testing ground where our peceived ideas about how God works come face to face with how God really works. Our stories are the daily journal of faith's complicatedness, the progress report of our journey with God, the roadmap of our attempts to follow Jesus in the twisted and complex jungle of reality. Our stories are our testimonies to how the historical God works in the present. Stories are the witness of our sightings of God, our periodic glimpses of him, and our daily frustration of trying to keep him in our sights, losing him in the busyness of our lives and thenfinding him again-or trying to find him."
In John we read about the Word becoming Flesh and dwelling among us manifested in Jesus Christ. Today, I think we put fleshness to the Gospel-otherwise it is just stories. As we share our stories of struggle, defeat, and victories, we are sharing reasons to believe. Putting flesh to Faith. I grew up in a church where during each service there was a time to share a testimony. Some people would always share the same thing. Some people sat silently. Others would tell how God was moving in their lives giving reason to go on-they were the Word becoming flesh. A glimpse at God moving among us. Stories are powerful tools. I love to listen to a good story. I also love to tell a good story. When they strengthen my faith or the faith of others, that makes it even better.
Stories always remind us that the work of God is always ongoing and always changing and always revealing something new." -Mike Yaconelli
Current weather: Sunny and beautiful. Today's high was about 92 degrees. We saw the movie "Barnyard" today. It was a great story.
-Norm
I have been thinking alot about what he has written regarding the Power of Story. He states that "stories descibe our interaction with God, the tale of God's presence or lack of it in our lives. Stories are the playground of out faith, the place where the logic of our beliefs gets tested by the illogical experiences of our lives, the workplace where our ideas about God run head on into the real God. Our stories are the testing ground where our peceived ideas about how God works come face to face with how God really works. Our stories are the daily journal of faith's complicatedness, the progress report of our journey with God, the roadmap of our attempts to follow Jesus in the twisted and complex jungle of reality. Our stories are our testimonies to how the historical God works in the present. Stories are the witness of our sightings of God, our periodic glimpses of him, and our daily frustration of trying to keep him in our sights, losing him in the busyness of our lives and thenfinding him again-or trying to find him."
In John we read about the Word becoming Flesh and dwelling among us manifested in Jesus Christ. Today, I think we put fleshness to the Gospel-otherwise it is just stories. As we share our stories of struggle, defeat, and victories, we are sharing reasons to believe. Putting flesh to Faith. I grew up in a church where during each service there was a time to share a testimony. Some people would always share the same thing. Some people sat silently. Others would tell how God was moving in their lives giving reason to go on-they were the Word becoming flesh. A glimpse at God moving among us. Stories are powerful tools. I love to listen to a good story. I also love to tell a good story. When they strengthen my faith or the faith of others, that makes it even better.
Stories always remind us that the work of God is always ongoing and always changing and always revealing something new." -Mike Yaconelli
Current weather: Sunny and beautiful. Today's high was about 92 degrees. We saw the movie "Barnyard" today. It was a great story.
-Norm
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Preparing For JoshuaFest 2006
Well it's only a couple weeks until JoshuaFest in Quincy, California. This will be our third trip up the hill to attend this event. It is a great event in a beautiful setting. Quincy is located in the Sierra Mountains on Hwy. 70 between Oroville and Reno. It has a population of about 4,000 and is the seat of Plumas County. They have a wonderful fairground there. JoshuaFest is held there. Over 100 bands will be playing at JF, September 1,2, and 3! Also, Camp Jerico Kid's Program. Two years ago we stayed in a borrowed a tent trailer. Last year we stayed in a motorhome. This year we will be going the budget way and staying in a couple tents. Some of the bands playing there includeSkillet, Dizmas, Hawk Nelson, Pillar, Falling Up, TFK, Ever Stays Red
I totally love the whole festival atmosphere. It is very relaxing to sit among the pine trees and listen to some great music. I am also looking forward to the Praise & Worship and Church Service on Sunday morning. JF always seems to come around when it has been a stressful time at work and I am in need of some relaxation. Having just returned from a nice adventure in Tennessee that doesn't appear to be the case yet. We do still have a couple weeks to go........
Current weather: 100 degrees and beautiful.
-Norm
I totally love the whole festival atmosphere. It is very relaxing to sit among the pine trees and listen to some great music. I am also looking forward to the Praise & Worship and Church Service on Sunday morning. JF always seems to come around when it has been a stressful time at work and I am in need of some relaxation. Having just returned from a nice adventure in Tennessee that doesn't appear to be the case yet. We do still have a couple weeks to go........
Current weather: 100 degrees and beautiful.
-Norm
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
A Week In Tennessee
Yesterday we returned from our fact finding trip to the Volunteer state! We flew out of San Fransisco on Tuesday, August 8 headed for Memphis. Once settled into the Holiday Inn we went searching for dinner. Right down the street was a Chic-Fil-A. The staff there was very nice and friendly. Very good chicken wraps. We had set aside Wednesday for touring with a Real Estate agent. Her name is Debby. She took us to various parts and suburbs of Memphis to show us homes within our price range. It was nearing lunchtime and she suggested Back Yard Burger. I must say this place served incredible burgers. We settled on the Blue Cheese Bacon Burger meal. It was soooooo tasty. I now have a burger favorite in the south! We saw a number of very nice homes in Memphis on Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning.
On Thursday afternoon we headed for Nashville but decided to wait to see it until our return trip to Memphis. We ended up driving through a massive rain storm while heading to Knoxville. We took a driving tour looking at what houses were available there. We really liked this area. We decided to drive up to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. While on our way we stopped by a "Tourist Information" building. It turned out to be a front for a timeshare outfit. They promised us a reduced hotel rate, two free Dollywood tickets and breakfast in exchange for sitting through a 90 minute presentation. We stayed Thursday night and Friday night in Pigeon Forge. Pigeon Forge is a tourist trap!!! Getting the free amusement park tickets was the best part.
We spent a day at Dollywood! Hope and I went on the Tennessee Tornado. It loops and spins in all directions. I didn't think I liked roller coasters. We also went on their wooden coaster. It was fast and the g-forces were incredible! I would recommend this park if you are in Eastern Tennessee, but watch out for the rest of Pigeon Forge. It's a Smokey Mountain timeshare tourist trap. Tourists beware!!!
To be continued........
On Thursday afternoon we headed for Nashville but decided to wait to see it until our return trip to Memphis. We ended up driving through a massive rain storm while heading to Knoxville. We took a driving tour looking at what houses were available there. We really liked this area. We decided to drive up to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. While on our way we stopped by a "Tourist Information" building. It turned out to be a front for a timeshare outfit. They promised us a reduced hotel rate, two free Dollywood tickets and breakfast in exchange for sitting through a 90 minute presentation. We stayed Thursday night and Friday night in Pigeon Forge. Pigeon Forge is a tourist trap!!! Getting the free amusement park tickets was the best part.
We spent a day at Dollywood! Hope and I went on the Tennessee Tornado. It loops and spins in all directions. I didn't think I liked roller coasters. We also went on their wooden coaster. It was fast and the g-forces were incredible! I would recommend this park if you are in Eastern Tennessee, but watch out for the rest of Pigeon Forge. It's a Smokey Mountain timeshare tourist trap. Tourists beware!!!
To be continued........
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Life Outside The Fence
Jhn 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
As I was on my way to work yesterday this verse popped into my brain. At a time when we are fighting for freedom and trying to maintain stability in other parts of the world freedom has a price.
Personal freedom also has a price. Here in John, Jesus is speaking of spritual freedom. It will cost us our guilt, shame, self condemnation and past hurts. It will also take bowing at the foot of the Cross admitting we have sinned and need a Savior. Humanity is fenced in on all sides. Fences of shame, guilt, hurt, and condemnation. On the gate is the lock of sin which has us trapped with no way to escape. Jesus stands at the gate with the keys having overcome death, hell and the grave. He is waiting for us the make the choice to follow Him and leave the pen of sin. Jesus offers freedom and if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. The freedom far outweighs what we have to give up or give away for it.
On another note. Buck and Rachael left yesterday for New York. It was a sad setting in our home last night. They will really be missed. Thankfully the cousins got to spend the last evening together. I look forward to hearing about their adventures to and living in New York.
Here's a just for fun Make TJ Drink
Current weather: 94 degrees is the expected high today. The haze is nearly gone. I could get use to these pleasant summer days.
-Norm
As I was on my way to work yesterday this verse popped into my brain. At a time when we are fighting for freedom and trying to maintain stability in other parts of the world freedom has a price.
Personal freedom also has a price. Here in John, Jesus is speaking of spritual freedom. It will cost us our guilt, shame, self condemnation and past hurts. It will also take bowing at the foot of the Cross admitting we have sinned and need a Savior. Humanity is fenced in on all sides. Fences of shame, guilt, hurt, and condemnation. On the gate is the lock of sin which has us trapped with no way to escape. Jesus stands at the gate with the keys having overcome death, hell and the grave. He is waiting for us the make the choice to follow Him and leave the pen of sin. Jesus offers freedom and if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. The freedom far outweighs what we have to give up or give away for it.
On another note. Buck and Rachael left yesterday for New York. It was a sad setting in our home last night. They will really be missed. Thankfully the cousins got to spend the last evening together. I look forward to hearing about their adventures to and living in New York.
Here's a just for fun Make TJ Drink
Current weather: 94 degrees is the expected high today. The haze is nearly gone. I could get use to these pleasant summer days.
-Norm
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Tennessee and Virginia
We are going on a fact finding mission. Next week we will all be going to check out Tennessee and Virginia. The plan is to fly into Memphis and meet up with a real estate agent and view the Memphis area. Later in the week we will drive up to Nashville and then on to Virginia. We have been researching these areas and think they are places we might like to live. Tina and I have been discussing places we might like to move to. I have lived in our town because my parents raised us there. I would like to live somewhere because we want to live there. These areas interest us. One thing is for sure the real estate prices are lower.
More to follow.....
Current weather: 93 degrees and a little hazy. The fire on the mountain is still burning, but it is not as hot in the valley. I actually needed to wear a sweatshirt on my ride to work this morning.
-Norm
More to follow.....
Current weather: 93 degrees and a little hazy. The fire on the mountain is still burning, but it is not as hot in the valley. I actually needed to wear a sweatshirt on my ride to work this morning.
-Norm
Monday, July 31, 2006
Bike Ride, Lassen Park and The Creek
This weekend was packed with wild and fun stuff to do. Friday evening was dinner with the Greers and the Hollers, a going away dinner for Buck, Rachael and the girls. They are moving to New York City this week. We all met at Round Table Pizza to enjoy great pizza with friends. On Saturday, Bill, Dean and I met at the church at 7:00 AM. We rode motorcycles to Mineral for coffee and on to Chester for breakfast. It was beautiful (but little chilly in spots). We had breakfast and great conversation at the Kopper Kettle. I had a huge plate of biscuits and gravy. Following breakfast it was back down the mountain for a ride through Lassen Park.
We were told there were suppose to be 100+ bikes coming into the park. We waved alot! We stopped at both visitors centers and then caught Hwy. 44 to Shingletown. From there we to the cutoff to Manton, to try to catch Gary at home. We were not successful so we headed for home. We rode nearly 200 beautiful miles!
On Sunday after church, we all went to Francisco's. This would be the last lunch with the Hollers. It was great! When we got home we filled the raft and headed to the creek. We had been wanting to do this for quite some time. The water was warm and the rope swing kept calling the girl's names. It was a blast! I spent most of my time paddling the raft and getting use to how to manuver it. We went home tired, but it was a good tired.
We are seriously looking at moving to another state. Tina and the girls will be going to Tennessee in a couple weeks to take a look. We are currently in research mode.
Current weather: suppose to be 95 degrees today. There is fire on the mountain so alot of smokey haze. There were cinders on the bike when I went out to start it this morning. The smell of smoke is in the air.
-Norm
We were told there were suppose to be 100+ bikes coming into the park. We waved alot! We stopped at both visitors centers and then caught Hwy. 44 to Shingletown. From there we to the cutoff to Manton, to try to catch Gary at home. We were not successful so we headed for home. We rode nearly 200 beautiful miles!
On Sunday after church, we all went to Francisco's. This would be the last lunch with the Hollers. It was great! When we got home we filled the raft and headed to the creek. We had been wanting to do this for quite some time. The water was warm and the rope swing kept calling the girl's names. It was a blast! I spent most of my time paddling the raft and getting use to how to manuver it. We went home tired, but it was a good tired.
We are seriously looking at moving to another state. Tina and the girls will be going to Tennessee in a couple weeks to take a look. We are currently in research mode.
Current weather: suppose to be 95 degrees today. There is fire on the mountain so alot of smokey haze. There were cinders on the bike when I went out to start it this morning. The smell of smoke is in the air.
-Norm
Friday, July 28, 2006
I Passed!
Yesterday I took my motorcycle license drivers test. It was at 4:00 PM, in the heat of the day. Yesterday's high was 110 degrees. The DMV instructor was pleasant and had a great sense of humor! I did well on the actual driving part. I can now drive at night, carry passengers and ride on the freeway. With this new license also came the purchase of a new helmet for the passenger. We purchased a Bell Bandito. When we got it home and went to take off the packaging, I noticed the following sticker "Caution:use care when removing packaging from the helmet to avoid injury or damage to the helmet". I am sure it is made to withstand a great amount of pressure and abuse so to think that by simply removing the plastic case from around the helmet I could damage it. Weird!
My first ride on the freeway was a great one. I thought big trucks doing 60-70 mpgs would be more of a problem but nothing out of the ordinary just keep both hands on the handlebars!
Current weather: Expected high of 95 degrees today and beautiful. This is alot better than the three digit temperatures we have been having. It's gonna be a great weekend!
-Norm
My first ride on the freeway was a great one. I thought big trucks doing 60-70 mpgs would be more of a problem but nothing out of the ordinary just keep both hands on the handlebars!
Current weather: Expected high of 95 degrees today and beautiful. This is alot better than the three digit temperatures we have been having. It's gonna be a great weekend!
-Norm
Thursday, July 20, 2006
A Difficult Week and Hot!
While on my motorcycle ride to work on Monday morning I remember thinking what great ride it is. I am taking back roads that are lined with oak trees. When I arrived at work I was told the news about coworker. There had been a shooting at their family home and she was dead. It is still unclear what happened. The investigation is still going and the autoposy will be done on Friday. We also had a visit from OSHA. I have been working deligently to get needed documents and training records. Next, an employees mother called about reports of the air conditioner in our building not working. This was untrue, but they called the local new t.v. station anyway. A reporter came out to access the situation. They did a very favorable report on us.
Thankfully these happened at the first part of the week. Thing are a little slower now.
After all my projects were finished last night. I soaked in our small pool. It felt so good!
No word yet about funeral services.
I still think it was a nice ride in on Monday. It is all that has followed that has been difficult.
Current weather a staggering 110 degrees! Rumor has it, it could get up to 117 be the end of the week.
-Norm
Thankfully these happened at the first part of the week. Thing are a little slower now.
After all my projects were finished last night. I soaked in our small pool. It felt so good!
No word yet about funeral services.
I still think it was a nice ride in on Monday. It is all that has followed that has been difficult.
Current weather a staggering 110 degrees! Rumor has it, it could get up to 117 be the end of the week.
-Norm
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Wood Go-Carts and The Neighborhood Hill.....
I remember spending childhood summer days pounding nails building wooden go-carts. These involved finding a piece of plywood big enough to sit on. It seemed there was always scrap 2x4s available and we would use them to support the back axel and wheels. Next we would take another 2x4 and attached it front and center to the plywood with a bolt. This was our steering. The front axel and wheels were attached to this 2x4 piece. The final touch was attaching a rope to the 2x4 or the front axel. Now we are ready to go.
Our section of the neighborhood was perched high on a hill. Our home was at the top of a paved street. Around the corner from our home was another paved hill with a dip at the bottom. We had a great time going down and up, down and up.... This is how we spent a number of days. These same hills were also great for skateboarding and testing our the latest two wheel creations. This was back before helmets and safety gear. I think I left a good deal of skin on these sections of street and still lived to tell about it!
Weather today: 94 degrees and a beautiful day. The ride today on the Reflex was great and enjoyable.
-Norm
Our section of the neighborhood was perched high on a hill. Our home was at the top of a paved street. Around the corner from our home was another paved hill with a dip at the bottom. We had a great time going down and up, down and up.... This is how we spent a number of days. These same hills were also great for skateboarding and testing our the latest two wheel creations. This was back before helmets and safety gear. I think I left a good deal of skin on these sections of street and still lived to tell about it!
Weather today: 94 degrees and a beautiful day. The ride today on the Reflex was great and enjoyable.
-Norm
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
God; Strong and Loving
I am re-reading Wild At Heart by John Eldredge. I just finished Chapter 2. At the end of this chapter he has posted this verse: "One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you O God are loving. Psalms 62:11-12.
In reference to Wild At Heart, the point is being made that we as men need to be strong. There is definately a place for this. I love camping and the outdoors. I have a newfound love for motorcycle riding. While I do not consider myself a manly-man, there are times when I need to be strong at home and at work.
The other side of God is His love. I desire to be a loving husband and father. Also a caring and compassionate boss and case manager. When I speak I hope there are two things that are heard, I am strong. As with God a defender of the weak. That I am loving and tender in all areas of my life.
I look forward to an upcoming motorcycle ride with my friend Bill to Lassen Volcanic National Park. I am looking forward to an upcoming family trip to southern California to watch my daughters in their showcases. Strong and loving.
Current weather: 104 degrees and a slight breeze.
-Norm
In reference to Wild At Heart, the point is being made that we as men need to be strong. There is definately a place for this. I love camping and the outdoors. I have a newfound love for motorcycle riding. While I do not consider myself a manly-man, there are times when I need to be strong at home and at work.
The other side of God is His love. I desire to be a loving husband and father. Also a caring and compassionate boss and case manager. When I speak I hope there are two things that are heard, I am strong. As with God a defender of the weak. That I am loving and tender in all areas of my life.
I look forward to an upcoming motorcycle ride with my friend Bill to Lassen Volcanic National Park. I am looking forward to an upcoming family trip to southern California to watch my daughters in their showcases. Strong and loving.
Current weather: 104 degrees and a slight breeze.
-Norm
Monday, July 03, 2006
A New/Old BBQ
I had to put our old gas barbeque to rest earlier this summer. It was an old Kenmore with a wooden frame. We got it when we were apartment managers. A tenant left it behind so we adopted it.
I have been on the lookout for another one. The other day I stopped by our local Salvation Army store. They had several and one was in very good condition. They wanted $24.00 for the best one. I left empty handed. A few days later, the banner went up 50% off everything in the store on Friday! I got a nice BBQ for $12.50! I have a tank and need to fill it up then I will be in business. I love BBQ hot dogs.
I will hopefully be filling the tank tonight and then let the Qing begin!
Current weather: 100+ degrees. It was a great ride in this morning.
-Norm
I have been on the lookout for another one. The other day I stopped by our local Salvation Army store. They had several and one was in very good condition. They wanted $24.00 for the best one. I left empty handed. A few days later, the banner went up 50% off everything in the store on Friday! I got a nice BBQ for $12.50! I have a tank and need to fill it up then I will be in business. I love BBQ hot dogs.
I will hopefully be filling the tank tonight and then let the Qing begin!
Current weather: 100+ degrees. It was a great ride in this morning.
-Norm
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