Advent Conspiracy

As I was sitting at my desk this afternoon, I started to brainstorm on my Christmas wish list. I know, I am 29 and I still have Christmas wish list. Partly out of habit, partly, I want cool stuff. And I will say, its not a cheap one either.
Then I thought back to this video that our church showed this past week. Pretty powerful stuff.
There are so many people out there hurting this Christmas, and all I can think about is the stuff I want.
Im not promoting any organization with this, I just want you to think about this Christmas if there is anything you can do to help others in need. I haven't figured it out yet as far as who I want to help or even where to start but I hopefully will soon.

The Ultimate Christmas Collection

Every year I put together my Christmas music playlist. This could possibly be the greatest playlist ever. Here it is.

1. Silent Night - Boys II Men
2. White Christmas - Bing Crosby
3. Little Drummer Boy - Jars of Clay
4. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) - U2
5. The First Noel - Josh Groban & Faith Hill
6. Baby, It's Cold Outside - Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Jordan
7. Blue Christmas - Elvis Presley
8. Christmas Time - Michael W. Smith
9. Christmas Time is Here - Vince Guaraldi Trio
10. Sleigh Ride - Johnny Mathis
11. Winter Wonderland - Aretha Franklin
12. Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow - Dean Martin
13. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Judy Garland

For all you other bachelors out there...

Britney is looking for husband number 3. 7 years ago, i would of considered.

In a new interview with Glamour magazine, the comeback queen says she hasn’t given up on love.

“In five years, I would like to be married and have a father figure for my kids, someone who is a provider and can be really stable,” Spears says.

“It’s hard doing it on your own,” she added.

But Spears is hardly the party girl she was just a few short years ago.

“I don’t like going out,” she said. “I hate clubs. I hate being around too many people. I love my home and staying in bed and watching ‘Dancing With the Stars’ or reading a Danielle Steel novel. I’m kinda boring.”

A Flawed System

I have been debating for the past few weeks on whether I should delete my blog. It is something that has become more of a chore than something fun to do. But today I am back to let the entire world (or whoever reads this) know how I feel about a messed up system that is college football. For those not interested, feel free to exit off this page.

Every year, thousands of fans, players, and coaches complain about the BCS and how it messes up some team, somewhere, some how. Every year, its the same sad song and unfortunately for me, this year, the University of Texas is getting screwed out of the National Title game.
UT has lost one game this year. They beat OU and OU is going to the national championship. The math seems a little fuzzy to me.

I could sit here and come up with reasons UT should be in the championship. But there are other teams that could as well. The truth is, this system does not accuarately pick the BEST team. It goes by who is playing the best at the end of the season and ultimately computers determine the team that goes.

I have never really been a huge college sports fan. Growing up in Dallas, I learned to love pro sports, and we always know every year who the best team is by having a playoff at the end of the year. But I never see this happening in college football due to arrogance.

The players want a playoff system, the coaches want a playoff system, and the fans want a playoff system. Heck, even the President Elect wants a playoff system, but they are still saying no.
Even though I am not a big fan, I thought I would give college football a try this year. Although there were some great games, the ranking system shows why I stick to pro. With that said. GO COWBOYS!!!!!!

And now why UT should play in the championship.

The Big 12 is the only league with a championship game that can rely exclusively on a BCS ranking to break a tie. The Longhorns would have won the tiebreaker in the SEC, Atlantic Coast, Conference USA and Mid-American.

The Longhorns beat the 2 teams in the Big 12 Championship by double digits, and yet these seniors wont be able to play for a conference title.

The truth is as long as you only have 1 loss, it matters more how you play at the end of the season, and YES winning margins matter!

The Texas-or-Oklahoma question wasn't settled on the field or even by humans, but by computers. The Longhorns actually gained Sunday in the two human polls that factor into the BCS. But the six computers that together account for one-third of the BCS formula swung heavily for OU, thanks to the Sooners' win Saturday night at Oklahoma State.

Quote of the Day

I was reading through some election articles and could not stop laughing when I came across a quote in this following article:

Title - Kenya erupts in joy as favourite son Obama takes White House
Quote:
"I am very happy, I have not slept the whole night, even my wife slept alone as I waited for the results," said Joseph Otieno, a jubilant Kogelo resident.

"Because Obama has won, we will have a change in the whole world. And for that I will slaughter a cockerel to celebrate with my family."

After some research I found out its a baby rooster. For a while I was thinking dog.

Either way, what an interesting way to celebrate!

America's Got Talent Dave The Horn Guy

I am pretty excited about Dave the horn guy. He is coming to our church in December. Should be a fun night for the students. I really hope he picks me during crowd particpation. If you are in Visalia on Dec 3rd, come check him out.

My dream job

As of this week, I am the new Jr. High guys soccer coach at Central Valley Christian school in Visalia. I have been wanting to get into coaching for quite some time now.
I love sports. I love competition, I love making students run, and I just love the concept of becoming unified as a team to win. It is also a GREAT ministry.
Soccer is by far the last sport I thought it would be though. I haven't played since I was a kid. As of last week, I didn't even know how many players were on the field at the same time, I am not even a huge fan of the sport. But it was the opportunity given to me. I ordered some soccer DVDs online and I go out there everyday and pretend that I know what I am doing.
So in honor of my new part time profession, I have thought of my top 5 movie coaches. They have inspired me in the past and I will turn to them this season to help me win at least 1 game. I might even use a speech from one of them

Starting at number 5
John Candy in Cool Runnings

He took a bunch of Jamaican track stars and turned them into Olympian bobsledders.

Number 4
Emilio Estevez in The Mighty Ducks

Not a big fan of hockey, but just the fact that he named them the ducks makes him a great coach. The flying V could possibly be the best play in sports. I'm going to use that in soccer.

Number 3
Walter Matthau in The Bad News Bears

I haven't seen the movie in a while but I think he took a horrible group of Jr. high baseball players and made them decent. Not sure if they won anything. I just know they went to the Astrodome and then to Japan.

Number 2
Denzel Washington in Remember the Titans

Angry coaches are always good coaches. If you look at him wrong, he will make you run laps. I think I will take this philosophy to my players. Oh yeah, he also made up stories to inspire the players. Good job Coach Boone.

And the greatest coach in all of the sports movies out there is none other than....
Gene Hackman in Hoosiers

If you can watch this movie without coming to tears than you have no heart.
He was mean, an outcast to the community, and did things his way but he loved the sport and cared about winning. That's why he took the smallest school ever to win a state championship in 1952.
In honor of Coach Norman Dale, here is one of the speeches that he gave to his team before a big tournament game to get to state finals.

Coach Dale: There's a tradition in tournament play to not talk about the next step until you've climbed the one in front of you. I'm sure going to the State finals is beyond your wildest dreams, so let's just keep it right there.

Forget about the crowds, the size of the school, their fancy uniforms, and remember what got you here. Focus on the fundamentals that we've gone over time and time again.

And most important, don't get caught up thinking about winning or loosing this game. If you put your effort and concentration into playing to your potential, to be the best that you can be, I don't care what the scoreboard says at the end of the game, in my book we're gonna be winners!

Okay?!!

[Players begin to clap up motivation]

Alright!!

Let's go!!

Let's go!!

Let me hear it!!!

Last day at NYWC

The conference has come to an end. It was a great time to get refreshed, rejuvinated, and revived as I head on back home and try to be the best youth pastor I can possibly be.
There were inspiring messages, great times of fellowship with the team, lots of laughter, connections with old friends and new, and speed dating.
You heard it right. Saturday night, the conference offered speed dating.
At first I thought that it was fake, then I thought "who in the world would go to this?" After a little consideration and a lot of pressure, I said I would go, but only if my married friend went with me.
I walked in and sat down at a table. with 3 other guys and 4 girls.
You had 5 minutes with each girl and then you switch. By the time it was over, I went on 8 five minute dates with girls that I knew nothing about. They were all really nice, but Im pretty sure I did not meet my wife there.
Im not sure what people had in mind going into this. Were they really interested in finding someone, or was it just to have fun and meet a few new people? Not sure.
I guess speed dating is something I can cross off my bucket list.

Day 2 - National Youth Workers Convention

It is now 10:46pm and I am worn out after the 2nd day in Sacramento. (1st day of the conference.) So far so good. This is what happened in day number 2.

1. Had breakfast with the team.
2. General Session #1. This session was amazing. Started out with worship from Mercy Me. A few videos, a few announcemnts and then Bishop Sherwood Carthen gave the message. He was Amazing! He was very inspirational but straight to the point. He talked about how sometimes God will lead us through the wilderness to find humility and depend on Him. That not all the horrific things in life are attacks from the enemy.
3. Breakout Session #1. The X Factor. A Transformational Youth Ministry model.
Greg Stier who is president of the Dare 2 Share foundation led this seminar.
Long session short, he taught us that we need to be more Deep and Wide with the youth and not try so much to entertain them. Good sesson.
4. Dinner at a mexian restaurant in Downtown Sacramento called Tres Hermanas'.
Delicious! I think I gained 10 lbs.
5. General Session #2. Lincoln Brewster did the worship. 3 different guys spoke on 3 different topics. They took questions.
6. Talked with some different youth workers for a while.
7. Going to bed.

Day 1 - National Youth Workers Convention.

I am in Sacramento for a youth pastors conference. I am pretty excited, considering this is my first conference in a few years. It will be great to get a fresh look at youth ministry and also catch up with a few friends that I never see.

We came a day early for some team building and this is what went down day 1.

1. Ate a huge breakfast at a nearby restaurant.
2. Went and toured the capital of California. I wanted to find Arnold to let him know how much I enjoyed his performance in the movie Twins. But I dont think he was there.
3. Went and ate lunch.
4. Saw the movie Lake view Terrace. Pretty stupid but somewhat entertaining.
5. Checked in for the conference.
6. Went to eat again! and watched the Dodgers lose game 1 of the series.
7. Checked out the resource center at the conference. Got a lot of free stuff and got to take a ride on the magical, mechanical unicorn named charlie while eating cotton candy and wearing a fake mustache. (there is a sentence I never thought I would say.)
8. Went back to the hotel and watched the movie Jumper. I fell asleep.

As you can see, lots of fun but much learning. We are saving that for day 2-4.

Hot Topic

Okay, I am not exactly sure what the topic is going to be yet, but I need it to be hot. Maybe hot is the wrong word. Let me explain.
I have the opportunity, privilege, to speak in 2 weeks for our churches college, career, and 20 somethings group. Its a chance for me to share whatever the heck I want. (within reason). But for some reason I am having a major brain fart picking a topic. And I am nervous about not knowing.
One of my favorite parts of my job is being able to teach. I love it! I love having the freedom to share with students what I am learning from Gods word and making it relevant for their lives. Its one of my favorite parts of the week. But they are Jr. highers. Not that they're not important, they are. But they are dealing with different issues in life than myself.
But now I am speaking to my people. Same struggles, same issues, same questions.
Since this is such a rare occasion for me and its open topic, the main question I am asking before I go into this is "If I could share with my friends one thing that God is teaching me, what would that be?" That's my hot topic.
I just have to pray and figure out what that is.

Me in 1960

My top 5 fair foods.

October could possibly be the most exciting time of the year for me. The weather is cooling down, the leaves are changing, football is on anytime between Thursday and Monday, and last but not least, the fair comes to town. Im not sure why I am so intriged by this annual event, but it is something I have looked forward to ever year, since I was a kid.
Back in Texas, the fair is a big deal. It is one of the biggest fairs in the world and schools even let us out for a fair day. It is a magical day of thrilling rides that could literally kill you, fun houses and freak shows, (my favorite is still the worlds fattest man back when I was 8 years old.) the worlds biggest ferris wheel, the annual O.U. Texas Red River shootout at the Cotton Bowl, and the pig races.
But nothing could top the delicious food that you stuff in your face from the time you get there to the time you leave.
I unfortunately dont get to attend the Texas State fair this year, but luckily there is good food here as well.
So with that said, these are the 5 foods that I am looking forward to having when the fair opens in 8 days.


5. A Bacon Maple Donut. It will make you sick, but its worth it.


4. Corn Dog. It is just tradition. Going to the fair without getting a corndog is like going to a baseball game and not getting a hot dog. Its just not the same.


3. Deep Fried Coke. Whats not to love?


2. Funnel Cake. This almost made #1. It was a toss up.


1. And the number one food I am looking forward to is........Wait for it......









GIANT TURKEY LEG. It is like a taste of Heaven in your mouth. My mouth is watering just thinking about the deliciousness that comes with this bird.

This will make you laugh

A New Goal

2 weeks ago, I accomplished something that I never thought I was going to do. I completed my 2nd half marathon. I completed the 1st one last September and was very proud of myself for taking on a difficult task and going through with it. For someone that is not a runner, a pretty good goal. I also remember saying to myself as I crossed the finish line, "As long as I live, I will never run again." A little dramatic, but at the time I thought it was a very truthful statement. As I was telling some friends about it, they decided to run it this year. I just said to them "good luck, I will cheer for you". Little did I know, I would be pressured into running along side them in this 2nd half marathon. Yes, I said pressured.
We trained, and we accomplished what we set out to do. (I would show a picture to prove it, but Disney wanted $19.95 for a small pic. Please take my word on it.)
The way I see things, Half Marathon + Half Marathon = Full Marathon. Simple math really. So what now.
Now, a new goal. It is something that is doable and definitely beneficial, but is it something that I can commit to? I think Im going to give it a shot.
An old high school friend just told me that her pastor challenged her to read the Bible in 90 days. I wished her good luck and told her to let me know how that goes.
After a few minutes of chatting, I realized this would be something I could accomplish. So starting tomorrow, I am going to read the Bible 12 pages a day for 3 months.
I thought running the half marathon was tough, but I already am wondering what I got myself into. This will truly be a test of dedication and perseverance.
Wish me luck!

Healer (Cancer Faked) Mike Guglielmucci

This story is unbelievable. I just recently posted aobut how I was inspired and encouraged by the lyrics in the new Hillsong song healer. I did not realize it was written by someone who was faking a terminal illness. To be quite honest, I was pretty disturbed with the whole story.
But it is great to see this pastor admit that he has another kind of illness and he is seaking help.
Search it on youtube to see the entire story.

The Sports Illustrated Jinx

I have never really believed in the curses that go along with professional sports.
From the Cubs, to the Red Sox, to Madden, to SI, it seems like there are many. I always just viewed these so called curses as a coincidence or an excuse for choking late in the year.
So why am I worried? Look at the cover.
If you know me, you know I am a huge Dallas fan. Fanatic might be an understatement. I grew up watching America's team and remember 3 Superbowl's in the 90's.
The Cowboys haven't won a playoff game since the year I was getting my drivers license and yet I will continue to watch every single game. I have even attended 3 out of the last 4 training camps. I have been faithful. It is now time to return the favor. So, from a fan to the team, I have a few requests.
Romo, if you are reading, please don't get hurt!!! Forget about the curse.
Pacman, don't make it rain.
T.O, Keep your mouth shut.
Crayton, catch the dang ball.

Superbowl prediction: Dallas Cowboys-31, New England Patriots-28

Encouraging song

I was just browsing through itunes and came across the song Healer by Hillsong.
What a simple but yet powerful worship song.
I was reading through the book 'Man in Black' by Johnny Cash. He has a line in his book that says whenever he sang the song "Walk the Line" he meant it, or at least wanted to.
This song made me think of that quote. Whenever I sing words to God such as "I believe you are all I need" I mean it, or at least I want to mean it.

Pay the dollar and get this song on itunes. Be encouraged.

Lyrics:
You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease

I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my Healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my Portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus You're all I need

Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
You hold my world in Your hands

To run or not to run? That is the question

This weekend will be my second year to run the half marathon down at Disneyland. Last year, I just set out a goal to accomplish and was proud of the fact that I did it. I remember as I crossed the finish line saying to myself, I will never do this again. As the year went on I had friends who made the same goal for this year. So I thought, what the heck I will do it again. Im not great at math but the way I see it, Half marathon (last year) + Half marathon (this year) = One full Marathon.
But as I have been training, I am having problems that I dont really remember from lat year. If you are a doctor (Chad) or a running expert, please let me know whether I should run or not. Here are the concerns.

Knee Pain- After some internet research, I have diagnosed myself with an abnormally tight iliotibial band. Not sure what that means but I definitely need to loosen this band before this weekend.

Ankle Pain- Couldn't find a medical term but it sure does hurt when I run. Weak ankles I guess. Maybe bad running shoes.

Black Toenails - My middle toes on both feet are black from banging up against the shoe while running.

As long as I do not hurt anything worse, I don't mind suffering through the pain. But my fear is that I will need something amputated by the time this run comes to a stop on Sunday.

Allnighter Outreach

It is once again time for our Jr. high outreach where we have to stay up all night long. Thank God this is only once a year.
I am really looking forward to this years event. I think that what we have in store for these students is something that they will really enjoy but be challenged as well. Every year many students make decisions.
We always start out with a rally at the church with a band, speaker, games, giveaways, and food. As you can see on the poster that we have an illusionists to give the message. From what I hear, Danny Ray is amazing.

After that we go to this massive building that has everything from laser tag to surf rider, to arcade, to skate park.

I cant wait!

Getting away

I just got back the other day from a 5 day cruise to the Bahamas.\I know, life can be tough sometimes. There was something about this trip that made it one of the most fun and beneficial trips I have ever been on. Of course it was fun. Jet skiing in the ocean, snorkeling, eating until you want to throw up, all good things. But there was just something about spending time with friends and not having a care in the world that made it memorable. Try it sometime. Get away. Anywhere. You will be glad you did.

Third Day going mainstream?

Third Day just released their new album Revelation today.
Never been a huge fan. I always thought they were just "okay".
I remember going to a Michael W. Smith (remember that guy) and Third Day concert back in college. Smith made them look like an amateur garage band.
But I have to admit this album is pretty amazing. There are also a couple songs with Daughtry and Lacey Mosley from Flyleaf.
While recording this album in LA with a mainstream producer, it seems like they are trying to step out of contemporary Christian music confines. Hopefully their message will be heard by many for the first time. They will be on the tonight show tonight. Check em out.

Youth Assistant

I just found out about this software called Youth Assistant.
Here is what it claims to do:
Automated check in/check out
Event budgeting and expenses
Visitor tracking
Text messaging
Mentor Link program
Small group tracker with pictures
Email blasts
Prayer requests
Postcards

And about 20 other things.

It seems like an amazing tool. If there is a youth pastor out there that has tried it or heard about it, it would be great to hear what you think of it.

Google saving gas

I just saw that you can not only get driving directions on google maps but you can get walking directions as well.
For me to drive to work - 17 minutes.
For me to walk to work - 3 hours and 8 minutes.

I think Ill drive.

Texas State Board approves Bible courses in public schools.

I never thought I would see they day, but starting this fall certain Texas schools will add Bible courses to their schedule. Here is the article. God bless Texas!

Just when you think tv couldnt get any lower.

There is a new reality show on the G4 station called "Hurl"
Here is a short description of the show.

Just relax, let go, and hurl!

This new reality show that has five contestants attempting to prove their iron stomach prowess by eating food in a short period of time. This is immediately followed by nausea-enducing acts. Those who managed to complete each feat without "hurling" will be crowned winner.

Although this show is wrong on so many levels, I find myself intrigued and will probably watch at least one episode.

Cow Appreciation Day

I just saw this picture on my sister in laws blog. Chick-fil-A gave away free food if you dressed up like a cow. My niece and nephews couldn't pass up on such a great deal. Smart family.

A picture says a thousand words

This is the look you will find on the face of your leaders at some point during a week of summer camp. Okay, actually camp was a lot of fun. It could quite possibly be the best camp experience I have ever had personally.
I will take a note from Kurt Johnstons blog and do a little section called "the good, the bad, the ugly."

The Good
I have never spent so much time just hanging out with students. From running with one of my students at night to taking 15 of them on a bike ride around the lake, to playing mafia in our cabin every night, it was a week of being relational. There would be times that I would want to sneak off and take a nap, but it was just too much fun hanging out with them.
A few of my students really felt Gods presence at camp. It wasn't really the typical emotional re dedication week like every other year, but God really gave some students a reality check and challenged them in different ways.
I also look forward to connecting with different youth pastors across California every year. All the same churches go the same week every year, so the youth pastors had a chance to connect and just talk about ministry. Thursday night, the camp had us over for a BBQ and a chance to connect. Good times.

The Bad
DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA!
It never seems to fail. There is always going to be drama between students at some point during camp. Usually it is the girls, and this year was no exception. I really saw first hand how much gossiping, negativity, talking down to others, and complaining can come out of Jr. highers. This is something that I saw that I really need to teach on in the near future.
Homesickness - One thing that frustrates me the most about Jr. High ministry is that every now and then I feel that I am working with children, not teenagers. Two of my students called their parents and had them come get them because they were homesick. I tried to be as sensitive as I could but after a few days of hearing it, I pretty much thought "SUCK IT UP!!!!"

The Ugly
This was a first for me. And our camp hadn't dealt with this kind of situation in a long time. Our guest speaker had been going through a lot lately plus trying to launch a new ministry. With that said, he was pretty much all over the place and impossible to follow. He went over an hour each time he taught and for the majority of it, he wasn't making any sense. Halfway through the week, all the youth pastors were called outside and asked by the camp the best way to handle the situation.
We all decided to let the camp director speak the rest of the week. It ended up being great. The way the camp handled the situation was very impressive and I respect them that much more because of it.

I give this years camp an A+++. But thank goodness its only one week a year.

For the love of God, STAY RETIRED!!!!!!!!

Hey Brett,
I have news for you
1. You are old
2. You throw a lot of interceptions
3. Your backup is most likely better than you
4. Last years record was a fluke
5. You are overrated
6. You already said bye

Sorry man, but you have to go. Invent a grill or some sort of salsa to sell. Every athlete does it. Dont be like the annoying dude at a party where everyone is happy to see them walk out the door, only to see him return 5 minutes later.

Gullible is not in the dictionary

If I have one weakness (which we know there is more) it would be that I am very gullible. I believe just about anything anyone tells me if they are being serious. Why wouldn't I? Excuse me for giving you the benefit of the doubt only to find out you are lying to my face. Anyways, one thing that I am always a sucker for are infomercials. It is amazing what they sell on those paid programming shows at 3 in the morning. Whether it be a knife that cuts through a shoe, an infrared oven that cooks your food evenly or a steamer that can get out all wrinkles in less than 30 seconds, I believe that it works.
My latest moment of weakness were these green tea packets that help you lose weight and get into shape. Doesn't that sound amazing? They even guarantee the money back if you don't like it. How can this go wrong?
Well, after a week of trying the tea, I find myself not feeling well and in the bathroom a lot more. I'm not sure if that is the strategy they had in mind to help lose weight, but it is not one my body cares for too much.
Lesson Learned: Don't believe everything you hear...
As sad as it is, there are people out there to get you and don't care how it effects you. You can learn a lot through bad green tea. Now I just have to figure out a way to get my money back.

My Trip to Texas

I just flew back from Gods country into the 100 + degree weather with a sky full of smoke of central California. Time to get back to ministry.
It was a very busy but very fun week. I got a chance to basically see everyone I know or knew at one point. I also got to gain about 10 pounds by eating some great TX food.
Here is a glimpse of the trip.
The first week, High School Reunion.
This night was actually a lot more fun than I thought it would be. Seeing old faces, reminiscing on old stories, and even watching old videos made the night memorable.
I learned that people don't really change after 10 years. Yes, they are older, have kids, have jobs, but personality wise, people usually don't change.
This is me and my 4 best friends in high school. (missing one other)


After the reunion I rented a car and drove up to Arkansas to see my brother and his family. It was a short trip but worth while. They have some of the cutest kids ever. Thanks for the good food!


After Arkansas, I woke up early and drove to Oklahoma City. But before I got there ( I know, this is pathetic) I had to stop in Checotah, OK. which happens to be the home town of Carrie Underwood. Don't worry, I didn't go out of my way. I just saw the sign and had to take a quick pic.


I finally ended up in OKC. Spent the day with my cousin, checking out his new church and just hanging out. It was also a short trip but a lot of fun.


I finally ended up back in Dallas, and after 14 hours of driving, I got to see my sister and niece. We went to the movies, pet shop, out to eat, and just spent the day together. Her alone would tempt me to move back to Tx.
.

All in all, a great trip. I rarely get to go back there, but I am sure glad I did. It was kind of weird. The traveling to different states to see family and friends made it seem like I was dying and had to say my last good byes. I really hope thats not the case. But now it is time for summer camp and a mission trip in July. The fun never ends.

An Itunes Run for my Run

There is something about music that gets you motivitated to do something that you really dont want to do. I remember when I was playing basketball in 6th grade. Are team was called the heat. You should see our shorts. They were yellow and orange flames. Probably the ugliest uniform ever. But I remember in the locker room before the game, I had a an amazing idea. I said that we should come out to the song "The Heat is On." So the next week, one of the players moms had a juke box and cranked the volume up as loud as it could go in the gym. We couldnt even hear it.
But the point is, music is motivational. I, as of right now, have no motivation to train for my half marathon. The thought of running 13.1 miles again makes me cringe. My left knee is begging for me not to do this. It went through a lot of pain the last time. But I made a commitment. This time IM not alone. This time I have friends expecting me to run because they are running it for the first time. So tonight I will begin. I will need some good solid tunes to get me through it.
Here are a few that I have so far.
Eye of the Tiger - Survivor
Lets get it started - Black Eyed Peas
Dont Stop Til You get enough - Michael Jackson
Dont Stop believin - Journey
Lose Yourself - Eminem
Ignition - Toby Mac
Livin on a prayer - Bon Jovi
In the end - Linkin Park

This should get me through the first 2 miles. What are some others?

Price is Right

A big group from church is heading out tomorrow for a taping of the Price is Right. I went a few years ago but was totally bummed when they did not call anyone from our group. I have to get on this time. I will do whatever it takes. Okay, maybe not everything. But I could sure use 10,000 dollars, a new car, a bedroom set, a trip to china, a sailboat, a waffle maker, a set of golf clubs, a hot tub, or a diamond necklace. But if you know of any secrets on how to get on, let me know.
If anything, it will be a great time of hanging out with some cool people.

A New Title

In honor of the greatest television show of all time, I have a new title for this blog. If a show about nothing can become as great as it was than so can this blog.

Hit and Run

Okay, so the high school pastor and I were in his office talking and all of a sudden we hear tire screeches and a huge crash at the intersection right outside the church. As we were getting up to check it out, all of a sudden we hear this guy yelling expletives at the top of his lungs. He is running as fast as he can.
Not sure what to do or what happened, we decide to chase the guy. I thought that maybe he was caught on fire or someone in the car got hurt and he was freaking out. Man, am I dumb? As I was halfway through the parking lot, I suddenly realized that he was not wanting to get caught. That is when a lot of stuff went through my head. Oh my goodness, what am I doing? Does he have a gun, knife? Is he bigger than me?
I soon realized that putting my life at risk wasn't worth it. Call me cray, scared, a wuss, whatever. I know that any guy that is reading this safe and sound behind his computer would say that they would of easily chased the criminal down. Maybe if I was like 70 and thought to myself, "I have lived a good life, I am going to go out a hero." But being 28, not happening.
But thank goodness, the criminal was caught. One of the neighbors stopped him until the cops came.
Not much drama happens in the great town of Visalia.
But today I could of died. Thank the Lord I didn't.

An end of an era...

I didnt want to do this. It might be one of the most difficult things I have ever had to deal with.(total sarcasm by the way.) But I think it is time. I must retire the name Puddles. It hurts to even type those sad words. (even more sarcasm) Some understand why, others have no idea what a Puddles is, but it was a name given to me 4 years ago that would stick for a long time.
January of 2004, the Jr. High ministry at Saddleback was on a retreat. The 3 year old daughter of Ron and Katie Edwards was trying to say my last name, which is Putman. But some how, the words Monster Puddles came out of her mouth and everyone thought it was the cutest thing ever. I had a good laugh and thought that would be the end. The word monster was quickly forgotten but Puddles stuck around.
The next weekend at church, I was introduced to hundreds of Jr. high students as Puddles. That is how it all started.
From then on, every student, pastor, co-worker, and friend called me Puddles. I actually didnt mind. It became a part of who I was. It became a second name.

That was a name that I associate the time I spent at Saddleback with. Great times. 2 of the best years of my life. But just like everything else, all good things must come to an end. So there you have it. Puddles has retired. Eric is the name. How boring is that? But thats the name for now. I am open to suggestions for new names, or I could just be normal for once and stick with the name I was given at birth.

Texas Sized Worship

I did not care what songs were on here.
This is an album that I gladly judged by its cover.

New blogs I read

I have linked a couple new blogs that I read that you might want to check out.


Jerrod Nunn
Jerrod is a rookie to blogging but a veteran in youth ministry. He is my cousin and one of my best friends. Im sure he will have some very funny or insightful things that you could take away from his blog.


Jenny Simmons
I was good friends with Jenny in high school and college. She is the lead singer for the Christian band Addison Road. She is very intellectual and her blog is very interesting.

Check them both out.

A righteous response to promises that seem absurd

Sounds like a title of a sermon. If I let myself, I could turn this post into a 30 minute sermon but I will just give you a little snap shot on what I have been learning lately.
As I read through Gods word, I come to find promises from Him that I have depended on since I was in high school.
Certain ones like, "Trust in me, Ill take care of everything, I know the plans I have for you, not to harm you but for you to prosper. (paraphrased), All things work for good for those who love Him, Romans 8:28. All of these thick, hearty, powerful promises are ones that I live my life by.
But there is one promise that I really cant seem to get. One that is easy to understand but almost impossible to live by. Yes, It sounds absurd, but yes I believe it is true.
1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
Wow, I have an escape route? No sin will ever be able to master me? Sin doesnt ever have to take place?

What do you do with this promise when it seems like and it feels like it is impossible? What do you do when sin just owns you? When it stalks you, devours you, kicks the living crap out of you?

I think the question that it comes down to, Do I Believe that He loves me? It is that simple. Do I believe that His promises are true, Do I believe He wants the best?
I think there are many, including myself that sometimes likes to play the victim card. We might even think that God can sometimes be mean, vindictive, or just flat out doesnt care. And that is where the problem lies. Even though we have seen Him work in so many other peoples lives, we doubt His love for us.

I think once we swallow our pride and humble ourselves, when we start to trust Him, then He will make Him self known. His promises will start to come through.

Book Review

I am loving this book. It was recommended by Donald Miller when I went and heard him speak a while back. He said it was one of the best books he ever read but I have seen the movie Walk The Line. I wondered, really? that good? You are probably over doing it a little.
After reading, I now know. This book is basically his testimony in his own words. It was published in 1975. I never knew how much faith Johnny Cash had at such a young age. He eventually fell into the ways of the world but in the end, he found his way back. This book is authentic, honest, entertaining, and I have totally related it to my life. It is hard to find, but I recommend reading this.

Here is a section where he talks about how important church is.

This was the first night I'd spent away from home since I'd been married, and Sunday morning driving from Shreveport to Gladewater, Texas, something about it all didn't feel quite right. It didn't take many miles before I knew what it was.
The performance the night before had been emotional "high." The wild enthusiasm of the audience had been stimulating. I had sung at a fever pitch, putting all the energy I had into every song.
Now it was Sunday morning, and there was a little letdown in the naked light of day. Marshall was driving the car, Luther was beside him in the front seat, and I was lying across the back seat. Every few minutes we'd have to slow down to allow cars to turn in to the churches all along the highway.
"That's why I feel so low this morning. I ought to be in church," I said.
"Do you want to go? Marshall asked. "I'll stop at a church if you want to."
Luther turned around to look at me to see what my answer would be. "Ill go with you," he said.
I didn't realize it, but my answer would establish a precedent, the beginning of a habit, a working pattern which would stand for years. My policy of aloneness and severed fellowship from other committed Christians would weaken me spiritually. Not that missing church necessarily meant missing God. It was just that Jesus never meant for us to try and make it on our own. There is something so important in worshiping together with other believers. And missing it would leave me vulnerable and easy prey for all the temptations and destructive vices that the backstage of the entertainment world has to offer.

I knew I needed to stop and get some spiritual feeding. If every night in this business was going to be like last night in Shreveport, I knew I'd need not just weekly, but a daily dose of God.
But I laid back down in the seat. "Naw, let's go on down the road," I said. "We've got a show to do tonight."

What I want

How sweet would it be driving one of these bad boys down the side streets cruising at 40 mph?
If you havnt noticed, gas prices are ridiculous. It kind of makes a good excuse to invest in a moped. This thing gets over 100 mpg.
My only fear is hitting a pot hole and flying off of it or some truck crashing into me. I think it might be worth the risk.

Red Box

I think I just found my new way of renting movies.
You only have to pay a dollar a night. Someone should of thought of this a long time ago. You can find these at different grocery stores in your area. I highly recommend it.

A tragedy

Pray for Stephen Curtis Chapman and his family.

Stephen's daughter Maria, age 5, died today in a tragic accident.

His teenage son did not see her playing in the driveway and she was hit by his car, care flighted to Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN and passed away there in the hospital. She was the youngest of Stephen and Mary Beth's six children and was adopted from China.

I dont really know why but this news really hit me. I mean, I know it is very sad but tragedy happens to people everyday. I think it is mainly because from what I know of him and his family is that he is a great Christian example who has a huge heart. I cant even imagine the pain that his family is going through right now.

The Importance of Community

"It is healthier to eat a twinkie in a group setting than broccoli by yourself."

The topic of community has been on my mind for a while now. It is probably a selfish motive but I am realizing that community is something that is extremely important to the health and morale of every individual. It is true that some people cope with aloneness much better than others but the truth is we all need people to love us, encourage us, fight with us, play with us, argue with us, cry with us, laugh with us, and experience life with us.
My heart has been extra heavy and sensitive lately for people that I see on a weekly basis that are struggling with this very thing.

How does the church help out?
Every church that I have been involved with in my life, I have witnessed the challenge and struggles of the church trying to reach to the young adult singles.
Life out of college is a constant struggle for graduates to find community. I have also experienced it for myself.
Lately this has been my holy discontent. If I knew how to solve this problem, I would. But I dont. But I dont want to just give up.

I understand that bigger cities have a wider variety of options, but I question is, what can the church do?
If you have experienced this or have any ideas, I would love to hear your ideas.

Off to the coast

Im heading off to an annual staff retreat at the central coast tomorrow.
This will be my third one. I have really enjoyed the last two. We always take time to meet and talk "business", but the majority of the retreat is just hanging out and connecting with the other staff.
Our offices are set up where all the youth guys are on the west side of the campus and all the older pastors are on the east side. So besides our weekly staff meeting and Sundays we really dont interact as much as I would like.
I am looking forward to attempt surfing, eating at Splash cafe which has the best clam chowder I have ever had, pulling pranks on the staff. (Last year I set up a fart machine under my senior pastors chair during a meeting. Risky move, but he had a good laugh), and running along the beach to help get in shape for the half marathon.
It will be a lot of fun and hopefully I will learn something in the process.

Mr. Likes to Play Worship Music

Wrong on so many levels but pretty funny.

Scuba anyone?

I have a new goal. I think. For those who don't know, I ran a half marathon in September of 2007. It is still hard for me to believe that I actually went through with it and am still alive today. Seriously, I thought my last days were near. But after feeling the satisfaction of completing a goal that I had to work pretty hard for, I decided that I want this to be an annual thing. Not running half marathons. But setting goals and going through with them. Just wanted to make that clear.
I was at sports chalet the other day and noticed that they give scuba lessons right in the store. Actually the pool is behind the store. The lessons are every weekend for a month and then they take you to Catalina to scuba in the open waters. This makes me excited and nervous at the same time.
I'm nervous about
a. getting eaten by sharks or over sized fishes
b. drowning
c. current sweeping me away to where I am never found and have to live on an island the rest of my life.

But if none of that happens then it should be pretty sweet.

Wired Jr. High Ministry

After months of brainstorming names for the Jr. High department and getting a look for it, (thank you Sarti Designs) we are ready to kick off our name this Sunday to the students. Im really excited about it. I think that it will carry out of the church into the schools and we will have an identity to the unchurched students.
This Sunday will include t-shirts, banners, games, a new resource booth and a pancake feed. I will also explain why I came up with the name WIRED.

Why I love Jr. Highers!!!

Unfortunately, about a week ago one of my worship leaders for the Jr. High had to step down. This kind of left me up the creek for this past Sunday. I called a few people to step in but no one could. So this past Sunday, I had the privilege (or burden) to step up and lead the Jr. high in worship.
I really hate doing this. I mean hate, from the deep pit of my stomach. I am not gifted in this area, I have no business attempting this and I do not want the program to be a one man show, but I really wanted us to worship through song. So after a few minutes of brainstorming ways to cancel worship for the day, I went in and got my guitar out of the office.
So I prayed and started playing.
As we were singing, I realized that I was not successfully playing and singing at the same time. I was going too slow. So I came up with an idea.
I told all the students that the only way I can play at the pace of the song is if I hear you guys sing. So I completely stopped singing and just listened to 50 Jr. high students sing to God while I played. It was amazing. There were even guys singing.
I love Jr. highers because they just want a leader that is real. They don't care how talented you are. They don't care if you mess up. They just want someone to love them and lead them.

If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball.

In my entire career of youth ministry, I have never been as excited as I am now about an upcoming event. No its not camp or a mission trip (although it probably should be.) But May 16th, I signed 10 of my students up for a dodge ball tournament. There is a new venue in town who is putting this on. Winning team gets $500.
I will coach our way to victory. We will practice day and night until we are tournament ready.
To be honest, since these are jr. high students we will probably get owned in the first round but it should be a fun night.

The Village

I just started listening to the podcast of Matt Chandler. He is the pastor of The Village church in Dallas. I have heard him a few times before while living in Dallas. He is one of the best communicators I have ever listened to. The Village is a young church that is exploding in the Dallas area. I definitely recommend downloading a sermon or two on the ipod.

A proud uncle!

Only 6 and already a huge Dallas Maverick fan.
I think Im going to cry...

The Donald

No, not Trump. Off tomorrow to see Donald Miller at Fresno Pacific University.
Will be a long day but hopefully a good one.

You’re not FoxWorthy

Just noticed that Jeff Foxworthy will not be hosting the CMT awards tonight. Instead it will be 15 year old Hannah Montana and her dad. (doesn't she do enough already?) I'm not going to lie, I am a little disappointed. I really don't think the show will be the same. Not only is Foxworthy really funny but you probably remember him showing off his serious side at the end of last years awards with is passionate speech on why he loves country music. I will watch because I love country but Jeff will be missed.

Jeff's Speech
"I started thinking about why I like country music and doing this show so much, and here's what I came up with, y'all.

"I like country music because it's about the things in life that really matter. It ain't about braggin' about how you're gonna mess somebody up, or how somebody ain't respectin' ya. It's about love, family, friends -- with a few beers, a cheap woman and a two-timin' man thrown in for spice. It doesn't take political sides, even with things as ugly as war. Instead, it celebrates the brave men and women who go to fight 'em, the price they pay to do it and the longin' we have for them to return home to the ones that they love.

"It's about kids and how there ain't nothin' like 'em. I get tired of hearin' about how bad kids are today, because there are a lot of great kids out there that just need somebody to love 'em and believe in 'em. Country folks love their kids and they will jack you up if you try to mess with 'em!

"People in country music don't forget the people that allow them to do what they do for a livin'. They sign autographs and they take pictures with the fans because they know without 'em most of us entertainers would be gettin' a lot dirtier in the course of our workday. We are thankful that people want to hear the songs and the jokes that we write. Country music doesn't have to be politically correct. We sing about God because we believe in Him. We are not trying to offend anybody, but the evidence that we have seen of Him in our small little lives trumps your opinion about whether or not He exists.

"We love country music because it touches us where we live. It's about mommas, and when they were hot, and when they are unappreciated, and when they were dyin'. It's about daddies and the difficulties they have sometimes at tellin' the people that they work so hard to protect and provide for how they feel about 'em.

"Country music is about new love and it's about old love. It's about gettin' drunk and gettin' sober. It's about leavin' and it's about comin' home. It's real music sung by real people for real people, the people that make up the backbone of this country. You can call us rednecks if you want. We're not offended, 'cause we know what we're all about. We get up and go to work, we get up and go to church, and we get up and go to war when necessary.

"All we ask for is a few songs to carry us along the way, and that's why I love this show, because it ain't some self-important Hollywood hype with the winners determined by somebody else. On this show, you decide who goes home with a trophy and you get to dance and sing along with the people that bring you the songs of your life."

Mens Retreat Overview

Just got back from our annual men's retreat. This is one event that I really look forward to every year. We go up to a christian camp in the mountains and just chill. Being a pastor at the church you might assume I know almost everybody at the church but the truth is I probably know about 20%. This retreat gives all of the guys a chance to connect.
Here are a few highlights:
Golf tournament - came in last.
Disc Golf
Football
Foosball tournament
Ping Pong tournament
Risk until 3:30 in the morning
guitar workshop
paintball

Video Game Review

If you are in youth ministry you have probably heard about this game. Some of my students were talking about it so I decided to rent it.
You play as Jimmy, a 15-year-old delinquent who's been expelled from seven other schools. After his mother and step-father dump him in a corrupt boarding school, Jimmy must find a way to go from social outcast to schoolyard hero. It's filled with the typical cliques that are in every school.(bullies, nerds, jocks, preppies, greasers) and out of school (townies). The entire game is filled with missions that include ditching class, running from cops, fighting the football team, picking up girls, pulling pranks, and pretty much anything else that a rebellious teenager would want to do. Thats probably why students would like the game. They can get into trouble without really getting into trouble. Although filled with cursing, getting in fights, stealing, and crude humor, the game is somewhat addicting and your students will most likely love it. It will also teach them ways to pulloff pranks and get away with it. Save yourself time and brain cells by not renting this game,and tell your students not to rent it either.

My Idol Predictions

Everyone has them. Although no one on the show is quite like past idol winners such as Kelly and Carrie, there is some pretty good talent.
So here are my predictions for the final 8 Idol Contestants.

8.
She has managed to survive many weeks in the bottom 3 but it is her time to go.

7.
Very talented but not that popular.

6.
Not that talented but very popular. Should of gone earlier.

5.
My favorite contestant but not the best.

4.
Great singer but kind of scary.

3.
I think he should win it all but he will be forgot about.

2.
Will be very successful. He is the Daughtry of the group.

AND THE WINNER IS....
1.
I do not like this guy. Great singer but no personality and he always looks like he is half asleep. But unfortunately he will be the next American Idol and we will hear him every five minutes on the radio.

How many stars?

For all you "Friends" fanatics out there (Josh and Allison are the only 2 I know of), I was wondering how many celebrities you could guess that made guest appearances on the show. (with out cheating)
Here are the ones I could come up: 25 of them
John Stamos
Rebecca Romijn
Jon Lovitz
Elle Macpherson
Robin Williams
Billy Crystal
Ben Stiller
Susan Sarandon
Charlie Sheen
David Arquette
Reese Witherspoon
Christina Applegate
Tom Selek
Jason Alexander
Julia Roberts
Jon Claude Van Dam
Danny Devito
Soleil Moon Frye
Charlton Heston
Alec Baldwin
Bruce Willis
Dakota Fanning
Brad Pitt
Denise Richards
Freddie Prinze Jr.

Office Exercises

If there is one thing that I do not like about my job it is the fact that I have to spend so much time at a desk. I would much rather be hanging out with students. But most of the time I am working on the weekend stuff or logistical crud, so I am on my butt most of the day. So this post is for all of those office workers out there that want to stay in shape. Here are some diagrams of some exercises that will help. So go ahead and get buff. I believe in you.


Office Tips:
• Take mini-walks - Walk during coffee breaks. Arrange a walk-and-talk instead of a sit-and-talk meeting.
• Climb stairs Walk at least some of the distance up or down in office buildings.
• Park and walk - Park farther away from the office (or the store when shopping), instead of trying to get as close as possible.
• Walk on your lunch break - You’ll return refreshed. Wear comfortable shoes.
• Move while on the phone - Stand and move around while talking on the phone. Do some stretches.
• Swing your arms, turn your neck, or wiggle your toes — any kind of movement helps.