tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131356052024-03-12T16:53:33.933-06:00.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-1963409599476373812008-11-07T18:12:00.003-07:002008-11-07T18:24:44.608-07:00First In The Neighborhood!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SRTnrzy_6PI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/oqOIgtfhIVs/s1600-h/photo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SRTnrzy_6PI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/oqOIgtfhIVs/s400/photo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266088604127455474" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yes, we did it! November 7, 2008 we became the first family in our neighborhood to put up our Christmas lights. Cross that one off of my list of life long accomplishments. I try to keep the bar pretty low.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Now why on earth would I put my Christmas lights up so early you may be asking yourself. First, I like to refer to them as winter lights so let's not be exclusive here. Second, have you ever put winter lights up at the end of November? It's not only a time consuming experience, but it's dang cold and quite miserable. By planning a few weeks ahead I can avoid the wrath of Jack Frost. Finally, it seems as soon as you put them up it's time to take them down. At least this way I can enjoy them just a little bit longer.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For those of you reading this blog post that put up lights around the holiday season just admit it you're jealous. And now you're thinking to yourself, maybe I too should put my lights up sooner rather than later. That's right, give in to the temptation. The season is upon us.</span></span></span></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-74512582458455920902008-10-22T14:53:00.008-06:002008-10-22T21:10:39.159-06:00Is The Media Liberally Biased?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SP-eDJyTfII/AAAAAAAAAOI/UYXiGC0TYJE/s1600-h/270760.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SP-eDJyTfII/AAAAAAAAAOI/UYXiGC0TYJE/s400/270760.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260096666795736194" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SP-bFXPEJoI/AAAAAAAAAOA/2AEb3Nz9pPE/s1600-h/270760.jpg"><br /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This is a question that is often heatedly debated by the general public and one of which I feel qualified to write on since I ran a web department for CBS News for over 3 years. Today I went to the websites of the "5 Major" news operations in the United States and captured what the headlines were that displayed for both Republicans and Democrats at the top of each website's homepage respectively. Here are the results:<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">CNN</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Republican Based Headlines on Front Page: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Felon’s Cautionary Tale of ‘How To Rig An Election (about a former Republican operative who went to Federal prison after felony charges for jamming the lines of the Democratic party on election day)</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) Palin misstates VP role</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />3) Republican Attacks are Desperate</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4) Protester tries to handcuff Karl Rove</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />Democrat Based Headlines on Front Page:<br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Obama Says Economy, Security Linked</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">CBS News</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />Republican Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) The Invisible Man of Campaign ’08 (about how President Bush has yet to appear at a campaign rally for this election)</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) Stevens Corruption Case In Hands Of Jurors (about charges brought against longest-serving senate Republican)</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />3) $150G From GOP For Fashions For Palins?</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic;font-family:'courier new';font-size:13px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4) Obama: McCain’s in Cahoots With “Joe the CEO”</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Democrat Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Is North Carolina Turning Blue?</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) Big Donors Drive Obama’s Money Edge</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">MSNBC News<br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />Republican Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) McCain asks N.H. For One More Comeback</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) GOP Spends $150,000 for Palin’s Wardrobe</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3) Bachmann: Talk Show Appearance ‘Big Mistake’ (about a Republican who made an ‘anti-American’ Obama comment on a talkshow)</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />Democrat Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Obama Targeting McCain’s Own State</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) Obama has a Trump Card</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">ABC NEWS<br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />Republican Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) McCain’s Odds Lengthen in Crucial States</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2) Palin Shopping Spree Legal? Yes, But Barely</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />3) Karl Rove Escapes Handcuffs</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />Democrat Based Headlines on Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Obama Boogies Down on ‘Ellen’</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2) Obama Defends Running Mate Biden</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />3) Hasselbeck’s Obama Confession (Elizabeth Hasselbeck admits she considered voting for Obama after his DNC speech)</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />FOX NEWS<br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />Republican Based Headlines On Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Joe ‘The Stumbler’s” Big Gift To McCain</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2) You Decide: $150G For Palin’s Wardrobe?</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3) Palin: The Election is ‘All in God’s Hands’</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />Democrat Based Headlines On Front Page:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) Obama Grabs 9-Point Lead</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />2) How Does Obama Spend More Than $390M?</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3) Report Raises Questions on ACORN Funds</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br />So there you have it folks. I think it is obvious that Fox News leans more to the right more than the other news agencies, but that being said the main headline on their site was "Obama Grabs 9-Point Lead," which is very pro-Democrat. The other 4 News agencies clearly have a liberal agenda as almost every headline puts the Republican party in a bad light and makes the Democrats look good. There are several serious issues in this election that could have been brought up in regards to the Democratic party, but the general media (with the exception of Fox News) has avoided reported them.<br /><br />For those of you who are unclear as to how stories are chosen to be reported on the news let me briefly explain. Reporters seek out stories and pitch their ideas to the News Director who ultimately decides if it is "News Worthy" for the general public. That's it! Yes, that's right one person ultimately decides what he/she thinks you need to hear. The news business is not a democracy, it is a dictatorship and the blind public puts their trust in biased dictators.<br /><br />When I worked in the news there was a quote on the wall from Hunter S. Thompson that read:<br /><br />"The news business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side."<br /><br />This statement couldn't be more true and it ultimately was the reason I abandoned this career path. This being said, there are good people who work in the news business and I'm friends with a lot of them, but until the process changes in how the news is reported it's important to seek out the truth and not be blinded by sensationalism. The news business has done a huge disservice in this upcoming presidential election and a lot of people have had the wool pulled over their eyes because of it.<br /><br />To quote a great 90's television show and to end this post in conspiracy theory type fashion:<br /><br />"THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE!"</span><br /></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-63970324714821414322008-09-23T13:32:00.002-06:002008-09-23T13:44:18.623-06:00The Worst Music Video Ever!<div><br /></div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YPnGPIMUnus&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YPnGPIMUnus&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So yesterday I posted a music video that I thought could quite possibly be the worst video ever made (If you haven't seen it yet you'll want to make sure that you do as it will most definitely make your day!). </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Today I discovered that I was wrong. Unless someone can show me otherwise, I am quite confident that this is the worst music video ever made. </span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-21758221169381239512008-09-22T17:01:00.006-06:002008-09-23T13:45:18.332-06:00Can Lightning Strike Twice?<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LbvP7dT3Dx0&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LbvP7dT3Dx0&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I don't even know where to begin with this post. I mean can words describe how much this video made my day? This has got to be the best web video in the history of web videos! Wow! I am left utterly and totally speechless. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Just when I think I've seen it all.</span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-28309951539140414882008-09-18T11:19:00.011-06:002008-09-18T11:34:13.652-06:00What Is This Baby Saying?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SNKNxDAX63I/AAAAAAAAAKM/iHc8Ow6JQB0/s1600-h/tessa+talking.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SNKNxDAX63I/AAAAAAAAAKM/iHc8Ow6JQB0/s400/tessa+talking.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247412389600029554" border="0" /></a><span style=";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The other day Mindy was at the park with Lou Lou and Tu Tu and took this picture of the little one. When I saw it I couldn't help but laugh as her facial expression cracks me up.</span></span></span><span><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I couldn't help but wonder what on earth she was trying to tell her mother and so now I give you the opportunity to provide the caption you see most fitting.<br /><br />My initial reaction was, "I'm Gumby!"</span></span><br /></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-88801608862820114742008-09-09T10:31:00.008-06:002008-09-09T11:04:36.685-06:00Not So Fast, But I Look Really Cool!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SMaldRtcp4I/AAAAAAAAAKE/g5iL3427Gg0/s1600-h/Bicycle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SMaldRtcp4I/AAAAAAAAAKE/g5iL3427Gg0/s400/Bicycle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244060738508334978" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Today I entered the world of cycling and rode for a mere 15 miles of what can be described simply as exhilarating pain. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I quickly learned that somewhere down the road I need to buy a new seat as the stock one that comes with my bike is a real pain in the rear....literally! However, with some seat adjustments it will at least be manageable for the short term, but there is no way I am riding a century next summer on this seat. I know exactly what I will ask for this upcoming Christmas.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I also learned how exhilarating it is to ride down hills at 30+ miles an hour and how deadly focused I became while doing so as the thought crossed my mind that were I to crash at such speeds it would really, really hurt. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It also became blatantly obvious how important generating speed down a hill is (at least in Colorado) because you can pretty much guarantee that at the bottom of that hill is another hill you're going to have to climb back up! Any momentum you can generate prior to climbing makes the overall effort that much easier, which by the way wasn't easy for my out of shape body. I thought my legs were going to fall off!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Overall, it was an awesome experience! I loved seeing the sun rise over the Colorado cornfields. I liked the wind blowing in my face, but wished that it were a little bit warmer (the Fall weather is upon us and it's a little chilly until you get your body moving).</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I wasn't that fast averaging a little over 15 miles and hour, but I also didn't push it that hard as I was learning the ins and outs of my bike and also didn't want to pay the price of not being able to move the next morning. Plus, I didn't adjust my seat until half way through which made a significant difference in my overall comfort level. Next time I will go faster! I feel good enough that I'll probably go back out tomorrow morning.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">But I looked cool, at least I think I did. My wife on the other hand thinks I'm a dork which I by the way am not arguing.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I am a dork, a really cool dork!</span></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-49620152095537759792008-08-19T16:41:00.006-06:002008-08-19T17:03:09.904-06:00The Big Second Grader's First Day<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SKtPLOMsI9I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/iWNnWYNgY7k/s400/daughter2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236366045956809682" /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SKtPQdF34XI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/y8gIQHasvNU/s1600-h/daughter1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SKtPQdF34XI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/y8gIQHasvNU/s400/daughter1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236366135854096754" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It feels like just yesterday I was holding your newborn infant body in my arms. I promised myself on that day that I would do everything in my power to love and protect you.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Now you talk incessantly about Zac Efron and High School Musical and think your dad is goofy. Where did the time go? When did you become such a big girl?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Don't grow up too fast little one. I'm greedy and don't want to share you. When you're away I miss your smile, laughter and the silliness you inherited from your dad.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; font-size: 13px;">I love you sweet daughter. I'm proud of who you are and that you have a true desire to do that which is good and right. And while it pains me that you're growing up so quickly I marvel at the young women you will one day become, but for now I'm excited for the second grade. Go get them!</span></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-40981433983349809112008-08-15T15:40:00.008-06:002008-08-19T17:04:56.683-06:00Shock and Awe!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SKYOX0jeW6I/AAAAAAAAAJc/TRsWj4NQP5A/s1600-h/Shock.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SKYOX0jeW6I/AAAAAAAAAJc/TRsWj4NQP5A/s200/Shock.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234887419271994274" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">Hello world! Did you miss me? </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">Don't be mad. It's not like I've gone 2 months without posting a blog entry. I would never do such a thing! My style is more like 2 months and 5 days, please give me some credit. In any case I'm sure you have better things to do then sit around and read my boring blog, even if I am freaking hilarious!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">So you may be wondering why this blog entry is entitled "Shock and Awe." I suppose the simple answer is that I'm actually writing a blog entry after a very long hiatus. However, during my absence many things have happened that have been both shocking and awe inspiring and so this entry will focus on them.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">SHOCK: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I have a blog stalker. You know who you are, I know who you are and I know you're reading. You may have had the upper hand before but with this newfound revelation I will skillfully craft my words...... whatever that means.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">AWE: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">My father played 18 holes of golf in the 90s. If you don't believe in a Supreme Creator then please reread that last sentence. After a year of not playing golf, several months of cancer treatment, and a whole bunch of lost muscle/weight he still shot in the 90s. If that's not proof of divine intervention then I need to quit this game. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">SHOCK: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">My brother has feelings. He may not show it that often but after my last visit to Virginia I am no longer convinced that his heart is made of stone.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">More like soft sedimentary rock. I love you brother!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">AWE: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">Michael Phelps, Tiger Woods, and Rafael Nadal. If you have no idea why I am mentioning those 3 athletes then you probably are a more productive individual then I am.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">SHOCK:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"> My wife did not finish the new Stephenie Meyer's book in a day. She didn't even finish it in 2 days! It ended up being a 4 day affair. LITERALLY! I'm not complaining though since I've found that personally having pale skin and sharp canine teeth has benefits every time she finishes reading these books.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">AWE: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">iPhone 3G. How did I live without you? This device is the greatest thing since sliced bread! I can check my email from anywhere, browse the internet, pay my bills, and use realtime GPS. I can even update my blog, not that I have, but I could....oh yes, I could! Muhahahahaha! Sorry, got a little carried away there.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">SHOCK: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">This summer my family flew to both San Diego and Virginia. My tickets to San Diego for 4 people were under $600 dollars. My trip to Virginia had a layover in each direction and neither was delayed. The children were wonderful for both trips. I need to go back and look in the Book of Revelation but I'm pretty sure this is a sign of that end of the world is near at hand.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">SHOCK AND AWE:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"> So you may be wondering why I haven't blogged for such a long time. I feel that since some of you have been so patient I owe it to you to come clean. This may be shocking to some of you but the truth is......</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">And I hope you can take this with an understanding of the real importance for the greater good.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">The truth is......</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I AM BATMAN.</span></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-63814486259283033272008-06-10T20:06:00.007-06:002008-06-10T20:22:15.792-06:00Don't Cross Me Child, I Can Make One Just Like You!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This is what my Dad use to say to my brother and I growing up when we were misbehaving. He has a picture of the 2 of us together where we look strikingly similar. Now, I'm not saying I'll use this same statement on my children in the future, but if you look at the pictures below you will see that I could if I wanted.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left; display: block; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SE80HLQLOnI/AAAAAAAAAJM/apUU6Km2bCg/s400/100_2531.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210440591775316594" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Tess: almost 3 months.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SE81x8QZuYI/AAAAAAAAAJU/B8NhLpuACqs/s1600-h/100_0167.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SE81x8QZuYI/AAAAAAAAAJU/B8NhLpuACqs/s400/100_0167.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210442425995737474" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Lou-Lou: almost 3 months.</span><br /></div></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-64905765247028613022008-06-09T09:54:00.006-06:002008-06-09T10:07:37.091-06:00My 30th Birthday<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';font-size:medium;"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; " src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SE1S2Kkw6XI/AAAAAAAAAJE/fo016esAko0/s400/100_2500.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209911434442500466" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yep, this picture pretty much sums up how I feel about turing 30...... I'm tired, dang tired.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;"></span>However, as my witty wife who refuses to blog pointed out there are some strikingly strong similarities between me and my youngest daughter.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">At 30 years of age I'm pretty much content with the same things she is, a solid bowel movement in the morning, a long nap in the afternoon, and some boobs at night.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I hope this made your day.</span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-1582665151295968562008-05-25T18:45:00.008-06:002008-05-25T19:08:22.731-06:00Windsor, CO: Tornado Ground Zero<span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This weekend I had the opportunity to help my cousin clean up his home after it was struck by a category 4 tornado. It measured almost a mile wide and had wind speeds up to 150 miles per hour. Thankfully he and his family are all safe, but the destruction it left in it's path is mind boggling.<br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><iframe src="http://www.flickr.com/slideShow/index.gne?group_id=&user_id=8528122@N08&set_id=72157605250958672&tags=windsor,tornado,colorado" align="middle" frameborder="0" height="300" scrolling="no" width="400"></iframe><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span">I was so impressed with the level of cooperation between religions, community organizations and federal resources. When tragedy likes this strikes it reminds me of what makes this nation so great....our people.<br /><br />I was overwhelmed by the love and support shown by everyone who came to help. The clean up and reconstruction efforts will undoubtedly take time, but this town will get through it as they exercise a firm compassion towards their fellow Americans.<br /><br />I have included a photo slide show to this post. Select the large image of each photo to read a description.<br /><br />Also, when your done reading this post go find your loved ones, gather them near you and remember what is truly important in life. Material things can be replaced, family cannot.</span></span><br /></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-31766129315321062792008-05-11T15:49:00.010-06:002008-05-11T19:15:05.628-06:00Happy Mother's Day To The 3 Most Important Mothers In My Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SCdqGfdEt4I/AAAAAAAAAIk/l6rPgK1u1Sc/s1600-h/Mom_bw.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SCdqGfdEt4I/AAAAAAAAAIk/l6rPgK1u1Sc/s200/Mom_bw.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199240954577729410" border="0" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My Mother</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">First and foremost, I have to tell my mother how much I love her and how grateful I am for all that she has done for me throughout my life. I don't always show it but I have a sincere and profound love for her. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">She continues to be an example to me of service, love, and sacrifice. Anyone, who has been keeping track of how she has cared for my father during this time of trial knows that she is a truly amazing woman.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I hope to one day live up to the legacy she continues to set each day of her life. I love you, Happy Mother's Day!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SCdr2vdEt5I/AAAAAAAAAIs/vPd9HjZ5ZEQ/s200/Sharon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199242883018045330" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My Mother-In-Law</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If it weren't for her, I'd have no wife and then the world would have never seen the likes of my 3 daughters and this would be a true tragedy.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My mother-in-law is a great example of one who bares trial with a smile on her face. I won't go into the details, but her life </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">has been anything but easy. Sometimes I think were I in her position my faith would waiver, but she is a rock and has an unrelenting faith in the Lord and her purpose here on earth.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">She loves to make others happy and often goes to great lengths to do so. This is something I admire and need to work on in my current calling at church. I love you, Happy Mother's Day!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SCdu7_dEt6I/AAAAAAAAAI0/KXS49Cq1WQY/s200/Mindy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199246271747241890" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My Wife</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Any way you analyze my life you will find that my wife makes me a better person. She is truly my better half! I can't believe that I actually had enough skill to somehow convince her to marry me. Maybe I should have been a lawyer.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This woman is beautiful, loving, compassionate, kind, funny, and a really good cook! She has more patience than I give her credit for, I mean she does deal with both me and Olivia and that is not an easy undertaking.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I hope that my daughters grow up to be more like her than me because in my mind she clearly brings better qualities to the table. I love her very much and am sad when we're apart. She is tangible proof that God loves me. The real question is what did she do wrong in her previous life to end up with the likes of me?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I love you honey, Happy Mother's Day!</span></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-33357518198353974152008-05-04T22:04:00.007-06:002008-05-04T22:31:57.251-06:00And The April Bloggie Goes To.......<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SB6HXJFh21I/AAAAAAAAAIY/8Vw7BlArS3M/s1600-h/2256496879_48501f2af5_m.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SB6HXJFh21I/AAAAAAAAAIY/8Vw7BlArS3M/s200/2256496879_48501f2af5_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5196739851677981522" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Anderson Zoo</span> for her post on "the VIPER."</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There were a lot of really great posts out there in April, but anyone who can keep my attention when writing about a toilet and even make me laugh deserves an award.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">What really set this post apart from the others was the intriguing demonstration video of the the Viper's awesome and forceful power. Not only did the testers put pieces of simulated....um....poo in the toilet, but they stepped it up a notch by putting an entire bowl of fruit salad in the thing. Maybe you didn't hear me right, an entire bowl of fruit salad!!!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Please note that if you ever digest an entire bowl of fruit salad at once you should seek medical attention immediately, unless of course your an elephant. Actually now that I think of it if you are an elephant and you ever digest and entire bowl of fruit salad at once you should also seek medical attention as this is a sure sign of constipation. Oh, I totally went there. A healthy elephant would surely digest several bowls of fruit salad.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Anyway, It should also be noted that in the world of "Bloggies" threatening the judge is equally as effective as kissing up to him. Threats from a lawyer are even more effective.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But all this being said, the post was funny and tackled an unusual and private subject matter. So, congrats Mrs. Anderson you made me and all bums across America proud. And I don't mean the homeless people.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Now if I could only decide if I'd rather eat your cooking or use your fancy latrine?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">You can read "the VIPER" post by </span></span><a href="http://anderson-zoo.blogspot.com/2008/04/viper.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">clicking here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">.</span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-3733288754083965292008-05-02T07:53:00.010-06:002008-05-02T08:43:23.578-06:00So Much For Global Warming!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBshVJFh20I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/yo_nUMFLy9M/s1600-h/100_2468.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBshVJFh20I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/yo_nUMFLy9M/s400/100_2468.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195783242202078018" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I am convinced that global warming is possibly the biggest fabrication in the world today. I acknowledge that the world's climate is changing, but feel that this follows a natural pattern that earth has seen over thousands of years.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My favorite thing that liberal environmentalists claim is that we are seeing erratic climate patterns due to global warming. So in other words the reason that it snowed in Denver yesterday on May 1, 2008 is because the earth is warming up at an unprecedented rate. That makes sense. Not!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For those of you that think global warming is an undeniable truth I suggest you go read Michael Crichton's book, "State of Fear." He cites multiple renowned scientist and climatologist throughout the world that basically state that there is really no strong evidence to substantiate global warming. Why do you think liberals have steered clear of this term and started saying "climate change" instead.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But wait, what about Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth?" Clearly that shows that global warming is at a crisis state throughout the world and we need to act now or we're all doomed! I mean he won he Nobel Peace Prize, so there has to be something to what he's saying, right? Wrong.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">First of all, I don't know what global warming has to do with global peace, so the Nobel Peace Prize totally lost credibility in my eyes. Second, scientist throughout the world have pointed out that the documentary has 9 glaring scientific errors in it. Does this disturb anyone as much as it does me? If I had 9 errors in a deliverable for a client I would get reprimanded by my employer, but in this case we shouldn't be bothered by blatant lies, let's give the man an award! I bet Mother Teresa, the 1979 winner, rolled over in her grave when Al Gore received the Nobel Peace Prize.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Don't get me wrong people, I'm a huge supporter of developing new energy alternatives. One, because it will help my breathing to have cleaner air. I learned this while living in Russia where the air quality is abysmal. Two, we clearly need to reduce our dependence on foreign oil! I think we can all agree that gas prices are outrageous! I just get irritated that this has become such a huge issue in the liberal agenda as I think there are far more important issues such as the economy, education, health care, and global terrorism. I wonder if the Nobel Peace Prize committee ever thought of handing out an award for "PEACE" in on of those areas.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The real fact is that global warming is a blatant lie that is being used to try to stir the emotions of the general public for political purposes. Don't be surprised if environmentalist abandon their stance on global warming in a few years and start talking "Global Freezing." Their proof? It snowed on May 1, 2008 in Denver, Colorado. We're all doomed!</span></span></span><br /></span></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-82646539727069186802008-04-29T15:56:00.004-06:002008-04-29T16:04:28.135-06:00The Definition of a Character<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">These photos were taken by our favorite German in California. I don't know if she wants me to disclose her identity so I'll just leave it at that and move on. Anyway, for those of you that have had the opportunity to meet my dear, sweet middle child then you know that she is quite the character. For those of you that haven't met her the pictures say it all.<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBea8ZFh2zI/AAAAAAAAAII/T0gHrAmBSoY/s400/Livy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194791057512061746" /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-66433403748533564162008-04-28T21:20:00.005-06:002008-04-28T21:49:43.358-06:00Does Somebody Have a Urim and Thummim?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBaaJ5Fh2wI/AAAAAAAAAHw/UA8Q9ASdm4A/s1600-h/snap.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBaaJ5Fh2wI/AAAAAAAAAHw/UA8Q9ASdm4A/s200/snap.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194508714951957250" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I did it, I really did it. Some 100+ posts later I am finally caught up with everyone's blogs. I am never taking off 2 1/2 weeks from the blogosphere again!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I was told by a blond lawyer that were I to award a Bloggie this month (which I will) that in fairness I had to read every entry that I missed on everyone's blog. To that lawyer I now can say that not only have I read every entry, but that her blog took me over an hour to read. You really should write books girl!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Anyway, during the course of reading I posted an occasional comment here and there and many times came across the dreaded "Word Verification" functionality. I myself employ this functionality on my site thinking that it in some way it makes it more safe.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It doesn't.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In fact, it can often times can be extremely frustrating and increasingly annoying. Is it just me or are there days when the words are absolutely in no way, shape, or form legible to the human eye? I found myself numerous times looking at the screen thinking, "maybe it's an L, could be a K......wait.....wait.....is that a lower case J? I think it just may be!" only to have my patience tested when the word is rejected upon submission.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I swear there are days one needs a Urim and Thummim to decipher the cryptic signs of Word Verification. And so today, I am setting this blog free....free from the ambiguity....free from the frustration....free from the need to enter random letters.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I feel like I need a video clip of Mel Gibson yelling "Freedom!" from Braveheart.</span></span></span><br /></span></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-47288368699492211052008-04-24T10:19:00.014-06:002008-04-24T13:42:13.727-06:00"Don't Cry For Me Fellow Bloggers...."<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The truth is I never left you. Okay, so maybe I did for a time and if you want to know exactly how long talk to my sister because apparently she's been keeping track. I've just been super busy traveling back and forth between Denver and Boston for work and really haven't had a moment to reach out to what I am sure is a quickly depleting reader base. It wasn't until yesterday that my body remembered what time zone it was in and I think my mind is just catching up. Truthfully, It feels as though I just posted.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So if any of you are still out there, here is a brief recap of everything that has happened since my last post:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1 Month For Tessa</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBDN05Fh2uI/AAAAAAAAAHg/utw4K1lQFW4/s200/100_2460.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192876678919084770" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It seems as though she was just born, but she's already a month and some change. Her eyes no longer have the red rings around the pupils which were caused by her quick entrance into the world. Both she and mom are doing great, but I think the wife wishes that Tessa didn't want to eat "literally" every 2 hours. It has made for many sleepless nights which have made for even more difficult days in my absence. In short, my wife is amazing! I couldn't deal with the demands of motherhood without being taken to the "nutty house." All hail mothers! </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It also is reasonable to think that I still have "nutty house" potential as a father.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">JetBlue, I Love You</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBDIRJFh2rI/AAAAAAAAAHI/v3YYg0-L_fM/s200/JetBlue2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192870567180622514" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In an attempt to understand my wife's sleep depravation I decided to put myself through a similar experience by taking the "red-eye" on JetBlue. I had a 3 hour meeting in Boston and decided that instead of staying there overnight it made more sense to fly in and out on the same day. It seemed like a good idea until I realized that I only would get 3 hours sleep in a 36 hour time period. This is the closest I have ever been to drug experimentation as my mind was doing some wacky things in the 36th hour.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The only saving grace to all of this was that I flew JetBlue which is um....AWESOME! In short this is what the service entailed: Sleep Kit (i.e ear plugs & eye mask), Unlimited Snacks (I recommend the Pistachio/Almond Biscotti), Leather Seat, Free Satellite TV, Free XM Radio, Warm Washcloth, Complimentary Bottle of Dove Lotion, Extra Leg Room for $20 (well worth it for anyone over 6 feet). It was almost like flying Domestic First Class, in fact it's better than United First in many respects.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you ever get the chance to fly Blue I strongly recommend it. One of the few great airlines left in the United States.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Juno, That Was a Good Movie</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold;"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBDIzJFh2sI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/EnpkuD8bpMc/s200/JUNO_800X600_WP03.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192871151296174786" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I saw this flick while flying on JetBlue. I thought it was really well done and Ellen Page cracked me up. Granted the story line is a bit disturbing being that it deals with teen </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">pregnancy and divorce, but I did like how the character chose to put the baby up for adoption instead of the alternative. I thought the film had some really sincere moments and for some reason it reminded me how much I love my family.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Are You Insane?</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBDOiZFh2vI/AAAAAAAAAHo/htlb9LDuxac/s200/yankees-wallpaper-1024.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192877460603132658" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This is the question you must ask me when I tell you that I decided to buy 2 Yankees hats for my children while in Boston. My good friend Rob did the same thing for his kids a week earlier and the cashier wouldn't talk to him for the remainder of the time he was in the store. Look Sox fans, if you have such issue with the Yankees then why are you selling their memorabilia in the first place?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Anyway, I decided that I would buy that hats in the "Lids" store in Logan airport. I figured this way if a riot broke out I would have a quick getaway on the airplane. I nervously went up to the cashier and whispered, "I'd like 2 Yankees hats for kids please." She looked at me for a second and then looked around the store. I was sure she had some blunt object under the table and I was about to see an untimely death, but then the unexpected occurred. She raised her hand for what I was sure was about to be a blow to the face and said, "All right, give me five!"</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Could it be? A Boston born Yankees fan? Much to my surprise and delight the answer is a resounding "Yes!" Clearly the gentiles are starting to see the light. Isn't this one of the signs of the Second Coming in the Book of Revelations?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Grandma Lamma </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/SBDJ_ZFh2tI/AAAAAAAAAHY/URyct0WBAMo/s200/irish_lamb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192872461261200082" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Too funny not to share. The other night at dinner Olivia looked at me and the dialogue went something like this:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Olivia: When is the Lamma coming to visit?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Me: You mean Grandma Lamma in Virginia?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Olivia: Yeah, Lamma.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Me: Do you think her name is Lamma?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Olivia: (looking at me like I'm an idiot) Yeah!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Me: Lamma Carlson?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Olivia: Yeah!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Me: Okay, I'm cool with that.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Because we refer to the other Grandma as "Grandma Sharon," she automatically assumed that my mother's name is "Lamma." I think I'll leave it that way for a while as it makes me laugh, just like when we pass McDonald's and Olivia exclaims, "Look! There's Old McDonald's!"</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Priceless!</span></span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-17764443724708628172008-03-31T20:07:00.005-06:002008-03-31T20:58:32.074-06:00Blessing Baby Tessa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R_GaTCvuwfI/AAAAAAAAAG4/SNuGJT8Vj9g/s1600-h/family.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R_GaTCvuwfI/AAAAAAAAAG4/SNuGJT8Vj9g/s320/family.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184094298025411058" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So a funny thing happens when a new baby enters the home. One becomes so enthralled with the child that everything else goes by the wayside. It wasn't until yesterday that I realized the day of the week and date of the month. The only reason this became necessary was that it was the day I was to give Tessa a baby blessing in church.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I apologize to those of you who have been anxiously anticipating a new blog entry from me. The fact of the matter is that I have the greatest distraction of all time in my life right now and she demands attention and I am more then happy to oblige.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The baby blessing was a wonderful moment and I am grateful to all those who participated. I know some of you really wanted to be here but were unable to attend due to various circumstances. Your intent did not go unnoticed and your spirit and love were felt despite your absence. Please know that my children have a strong understanding of the family and friends who love and support them, even when separated by great distances.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Which leads me to a quick thought. In giving Tessa the blessing I became profoundly aware of the tremendous love our creator has for each of us. I can't really describe the feeling but I've felt it a lot over the past month. I've heard it in the comforting voices of family and friends, I've seen it in the faces of total strangers, I've touched it in the form of newborn perfection. His love surrounds us in some way in every walk of life, all we have to do is pay attention.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So as I look into the eyes of this new fallen angel, I am reminded of my father above. And for a brief moment I remember.... I remember what it feels like to be in his presence. I remember how much he loves me. I remember what is truly the most important thing in this life. And I remember how much he wants us to come home so that he can hold us and be distracted from all of his responsibility if but for a moment. </span></span></div><div><br /></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-29121832238413747232008-03-20T14:45:00.008-06:002008-03-20T15:28:27.558-06:00A Rare Moment<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Using the iSight built into my laptop I captured a rare moment of Tessa actually awake. One minute later she was asleep, a minute after that she had an explosion in her diaper, 5 minutes later she was breast feeding. So it begins.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';font-size:13px;"> </span></div></div></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwdq2NfBC4zJ8l3ktzQw20yr9RFr0PGABr0okfnZvN2IhttLJ0mGvsSJ_tpi5QyPOwUwED1BsXw3Rk' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-11541076391199250642008-03-19T11:28:00.007-06:002008-03-19T11:39:23.518-06:00Photos from the Joyous Day!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FOZ0LibYI/AAAAAAAAAGo/7gAES8lxPEE/s1600-h/100_2301.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FOZ0LibYI/AAAAAAAAAGo/7gAES8lxPEE/s400/100_2301.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179507251863514498" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The happy big sister</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">s. Please notice the awesome hat made by the nurse from New York City. Word!</span></span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FOE0LibXI/AAAAAAAAAGg/fmr6aHYYEHk/s1600-h/100_2300.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FOE0LibXI/AAAAAAAAAGg/fmr6aHYYEHk/s400/100_2300.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179506891086261618" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Mom feeling great (not really but she sure looks like it!)</span></span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FNv0LibWI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-RrVxPbqnJI/s1600-h/100_2296.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FNv0LibWI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-RrVxPbqnJI/s400/100_2296.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179506530309008738" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kicking back in the sauna</span>.<br /></div></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FNa0LibVI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vLx8D4fQS6g/s1600-h/100_2295.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-FNa0LibVI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vLx8D4fQS6g/s400/100_2295.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179506169531755858" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">In moments that thumb will be in the mouth. We have a sucker people!</span><br /></div></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-6453945855189225802008-03-19T08:59:00.006-06:002008-03-24T10:23:56.276-06:00Introducing Tessa Grace<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-EqpELibUI/AAAAAAAAAGI/qc3nYD7MLEY/s1600-h/100_2291.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-EqpELibUI/AAAAAAAAAGI/qc3nYD7MLEY/s400/100_2291.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179467931437919554" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Born: March 19, 2007<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Time: 7:38 AM</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Weight: 8 pounds 5 ounces</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Height: 21 inches</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Number of Pushes from Mindy: 4</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Epidural: Much to Mindy's dismay.........NO</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stay tuned, more details and photos to come! </span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-45985900268497225332008-03-18T14:24:00.005-06:002008-03-18T15:09:07.412-06:00To Blog or Not To Blog?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-AlKkLibTI/AAAAAAAAAGA/2FTA4QjLaXk/s1600-h/to_blog_or_not_to_blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R-AlKkLibTI/AAAAAAAAAGA/2FTA4QjLaXk/s200/to_blog_or_not_to_blog.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179180434917059890" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I am a huge supporter of new media. As an Information Architect I find it fascinating to discover and understand all of the various means society uses to communicate with one another.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The internet has opened doors to a realm of communication that 20 years ago one could have only envisioned in a science fiction movie. I feel fortunate to live in a day in age when with the click of a button one can easily reach out to friends and family. I am especially mindful of those of you who are separated by great distances from your loved ones. How wonderful it is to be able to contact them on a daily basis through the miracle of the modern day computer.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Blogging, while not relatively new to the internet has become for me a new way to stay informed to the lives of people I care about. The concept was originally intended to serve as a form of online journal keeping, but with the advent of social networks such as MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn and others it has become a hybrid cross between record keeping and idea sharing.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have heard critics compare blogs to Christmas card letters claiming that their purpose is to serve egotistical maniacs in a way that allows them to brag even more. I cannot deny that this may be true for some, however, I feel that when used prudently a blog can enrich the lives of others and bridge connections that otherwise would be lost. I am more than pleased with the people I have reconnected with since entering the blogosphere. It has even reminded me that I have a brother that lives in Virginia. (-:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">And so to those critics I say "Wake Up!" With every great idea comes greater condemnation. There have been critics with the phone, automobile, plane, computer, internet and every other idea that have made our lives more convenient. Are there times these things are used improperly for something bad? Absolutely. Does that mean that we can't utilize this technology for something good. Absolutely not.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">And so when asked the question, "To Blog or Not To Blog?"</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I vehemently reply, "To Blog!"</span></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-33075610104020860072008-03-11T20:18:00.006-06:002008-03-11T21:52:22.794-06:00A Letter to my Father<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R9dQRELibSI/AAAAAAAAAF4/wUu8H8wZpD0/s1600-h/mom_dad_bw_small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R9dQRELibSI/AAAAAAAAAF4/wUu8H8wZpD0/s200/mom_dad_bw_small.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176694550795808034" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dear Dad,</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I can't even begin to understand how difficult the past couple of weeks have been for you. If it were possible I wish I could take your place and undergo the necessary treatment to rid your body of the cancer which has attacked you.</span></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As an outsider looking in I have felt helpless just wishing that there was something I could do to help. No child wants to see their parents suffer, especially when they are thousands of miles away and cannot embrace the one they love. You and mom got a taste of what I talking about when I was hospitalized in Russia. It has taken everything in my power not to get on a plane and fly out there.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When I got off the phone with you the last time we spoke I was determined to help you. The fact is simple, I am a Carlson and we just don't do well sitting around in a time of crisis. Following our conversation it dawned on me what was needed.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For as long as I can remember you have always had a talent at inspiring others. When morale is low you rally the troops! I appreciate how you have always made me feel that you were proud of me, even in those moments when I felt as though I let you down. You have boosted my self esteem time and again and made me feel like I could accomplish anything.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Now it's my time to return the favor. I have rallied the troops (with the help of your wife and daughter) to remind you what is at stake in your current battle. I know you hurt and I can't imagine the discomfort you are in, but I hope this small gesture will strengthen your spirit, enliven your soul and give you the strength and courage to beat this enemy. We are behind you all the way!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Love your son,</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Matthew</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have downloaded the video in 3 different versions (small, medium, large) on a secure server. You can access it by </span></span><a href="http://gallery.mac.com/shafamily#100161"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">clicking here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. You will need a username and password to access it. I have done this to protect the photos and comments of those who participated. If you want the username and password and I have not already sent it to you send me an email message.</span></span></span></div></div></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-89602626719667987932008-03-03T19:54:00.031-07:002008-03-03T21:54:37.259-07:00Is it Time for a Change?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8y5_C1iCOI/AAAAAAAAAEo/7Zie8cUBWWM/s1600-h/hairstyle-8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8y5_C1iCOI/AAAAAAAAAEo/7Zie8cUBWWM/s200/hairstyle-8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173714564686153954" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Recently a little bird told me that I have too much point in my faux hawk. This came as a surprise since I've been sporting this haircut for about 5 years now and it really hasn't changed during that time. I always thought that it was a good style, one that has been worn by the likes of Andy Roddick, David Beckman, and Jude Law to name but a few.</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">However, maybe the little bird is right, perhaps it is time for a change. As an experiment I thought I'd try a few styles and solicit opinions from the readers of this blog. I hope to illustrate that the faux hawk truly is the right haircut for my head and personality.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8y7gC1iCPI/AAAAAAAAAEw/qJxi1kMnciA/s200/hairstyle-7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173716231133464818" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Malfoy</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8y7gC1iCPI/AAAAAAAAAEw/qJxi1kMnciA/s1600-h/hairstyle-7.jpg" align="left"></a></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It's slick and easy and makes a guy either look tough (e.g.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">James Dean), prophetic (e.g. President Monson), or as my father would point out like a drug dealer. I personally think considering my deep set eyes it makes me look like a druggie not a drug dealer.</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8y_hy1iCQI/AAAAAAAAAE4/ZiyC15zMIho/s200/hairstyle-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173720659244747010" align="left" border="0" /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Matrix</span></span></span></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Maybe my hair isn't funky enough and I need to try something that's a little more cutting edge. I know Jada Pinkett Smith sported this hairdo in "The Matrix" and it made her look hip so maybe it will work for me. The great thing about this is that it's low maintenance as this is how I look when I wake up.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8zCHC1iCRI/AAAAAAAAAFA/Y88A7WoT7pM/s200/hairstyle-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173723498218129682" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Wolverine</span></span></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I happen to know that the "Little Bird" in question thinks Hugh Jackman is the "Cat's Meow." I might not have the claws, I definitely don't have the muscles, but with a little longer hair I too could shape my head to mimic the largest land dwelling species of the weasel family.</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8zESC1iCSI/AAAAAAAAAFI/b9Ehbklj9-c/s200/hairstyle-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173725886219946274" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Alfalfa</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Oh yeah, I went there and you love it! This hairdo is a real crowd pleaser. It's sure to make one look like a nerd/geek which considering my obsession with BSG (that's Battlestar Galactica people!) really isn't far from the truth. The only downfall to this crome dome is that it requires a substantial amount of gel.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8zH4S1iCTI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/zwW_mvcx9-Q/s200/hairstyle-5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173729841884825906" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The 80s Feather</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Okay, I will be the first to admit that I don't pull this off as well as Shar (Oh burn! Wow, I just took a page out of her own playbook. Not bad for a 10 year old, huh?) In any case, it's light and fluffy and makes you think back to days when they made films with deep meaning like "The Breakfast Club." (-;</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8zJcy1iCUI/AAAAAAAAAFY/Bmyiv9KM_6s/s200/hair-style.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173731568461678914" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Dumb & Dumber</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Words alone are not enough to describe this hairdo. The picture tells the real story, let us stop and have a moment of silence...... Thank you.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWTkX0H0QeU/R8zMci1iCVI/AAAAAAAAAFg/yxVlPD24Acc/s200/hairstyle-6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173734862701594962" border="0" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Christian</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This hair style is not for the faint of heart but is seriously "Fierce!" I put this in here to illustrate that despite what some may think I really do I have a normal and tame haircut.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So, little bird the next time you think my hair is out of control just look at these photos and remember it could be a lot worse! (-: </span></span><br /></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13135605.post-44592395921272471032008-02-27T18:32:00.015-07:002008-03-08T11:34:53.691-07:00David Archuleta is Amazing!<object width="200" height="150" align="left"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NIuMcL4Kz44"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NIuMcL4Kz44" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="200" height="150"></embed></object><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In 2002 I was running a web department for CBS N</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">ews and had the opportunity to write a story about an 11 year old Latter-Day Saint singer named David Archuleta.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">At the time he was competing on the revised version of "Star Search," not the good one hosted by Ed Mcmahon, but the really bad one hosted by Arsenio Hall.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When I first heard this kid sing I was completely floored! Very rarely am I so captivated by someone's God-given talent that it completely grabs my attention, but this is exactly what happened in that moment.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I occasionally will catch an episode of "American Idol." Last night I happened to turn on the television just in time to hear 17 year old David Archuleta perform (I was surprised as I didn't even know he was on the show). I once again experienced the same astonishment I felt some 6 years earlier when I first saw him perform. Click on the video to watch his performance last night. If this kid doesn't win "American Idol" then the fans have committed a hugh injustice.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Here are 2 other songs that David performed before he became an "American Idol" contestant:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFAAzxAlhHc"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A Thousand Miles</span></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQxi9UjqfKQ"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Mary Did You Know</span></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I can't wait for the day he releases his first album as he has serious skills!</span></span></span></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04183216499710763242noreply@blogger.com6