Thursday, March 29, 2007
The CHRISTMAS Shoes
I know that it is only the end of March and not anywhere close to Christmas but, I saw this movie today for the first time and learned some valuable lessons. What a great movie and story. I thought that everything was done well even though I have never been a real big Rob Lowe Fan. I also added the Music Video by "NEWSBOYS" I thought it would go well with this post. It just goes to show that it doesn't have to be Christmas time to enjoy movies like this or to even read about the Real Christmas Story and the Birth of Jesus Christ in the Bible. That is why I really like the idea of Christmas in July........ We should be celebrating the true meaning of Christmas each and everyday.
About the Author
He didn't know he needed a miracle, until one happened.
Robert Layton (Rob Lowe), a successful attorney, is on the brink of losing his marriage. Nathan Andrews (Max Morrow), an eight-year-old boy, is about to lose his young working-class mother (Kimberly Williams), to illness. When Robert crosses paths with Nathan on Christmas Eve, Robert's life is changed forever. Something as simple as a pair of shoes was going to make all the difference in the young boy's life. And by helping Nathan, Robert realizes the true importance of family, faith and love.
THE STORY BEHIND THE MOVIE
In 1999, the Christmas Shoes story began circulating on the internet. The touching story about a little boy whose mother was dying at Christmas, and his quest to find the perfect pair of shoes for her to wear in heaven, came to the attention of Eddie Carswell of NewSong. Eddie began writing a song inspired by the story.
NewSong, a Christian musical group, sent its record "The Christmas Shoes" to a top DJ in St. Louis in November 2000. When he played it, the station literally shut down: the switchboard was inundated with calls and the computers crashed from the barrage of emails. With virtually no promotion, the record had 3500 spins around the country in just one week, and shot to #1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Charts in a record-setting three weeks.
The news media caught on to the phenomenon, and so did St. Martin's Press. It commissioned Donna VanLiere to write a novel based on the song. The book was released in October 2001 with a 300,000 first printing. St. Martin's released eight additional printings, but could not keep up with the demand. The book was entirely sold out two weeks before Christmas in 2001.
In the meanwhile, Jive Records (the label for Britney Spears, *Nsync and The Backstreet Boys) signed NewSong with the intention of bringing the group into the mainstream. The same has been done for Faith Hill, Amy Grant and Creed, all of whom started out as Christian musicians. "The Christmas Shoes" was re-released on a new album by NewSong last holiday season.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
BAPTISM
Monday, March 26, 2007
FINAL FOUR BRACKET CHALLENGE
Feed Jake
I thought of this video above when I took this picture of Uncle David and his Best Friend Jake. The song is done by Pirates Of The Mississippi ! I will leave the lyrics below.
And I don't know which way to go...
You know you've got my heart, babe...
But my music's got my soul...
Let me play it one more time...
I'll tell the truth and make it rhyme...
And hope they understand me...
Now I lay me down to sleep...
I pray the Lord my soul to keep...
If I die before I wake... feed Jake...
He's been a good dog...
My best friend right through it all...
If I die before I wake...feed Jake...
Now Broadway's like a sewer...
Bums and hookers everywhere...
Wino passed out on the sidewalk...
Doesn't anybody care?
Some say he's worthless, just let him be...
I for one would have to disagree...
And so would their mommas...
Now I lay me down to sleep...
I pray the Lord my soul to keep...
And if I die before I wake...feed Jake...
He's been a good dog...
My best friend right through it all...
If I die before I wake...feed Jake...
Now, if you get an ear pierced...
Some will call you gay...
But if you drive a pickup...
They say, no, you must be straight...
What we are and what we ain't...
What we can and what we can't...
Doesn't really matter...
Now I lay me down to sleep...
I pray the Lord my soul to keep...
And if I die before I wake...feed Jake...
He's been a good dog...
My best friend right through it all...
If I die before I wake...feed Jake...
If I die before I wake...feed Jake...
If I die before I wake...feed Jake...
A Weekend With Grandma
This past Friday my Mom took Bryce and myself on a overnight trip to Traverse City, MI. We had an absolute wonderful time. We started out by stopping at the Traverse Mall and Grandma bought Bryce a sharp Easter Outfit. Then we went to the Funeral Home to have some time with Uncle Bob's body and to give our sympathy to Frannie and Uncle Bob's Kids. Then we made our way to the Great Wolf Lodge. We all had a blast in the water park. Bryce even helped poppa convince Grandma to ride on the Howling Wolf water slide. After a few hours of the water park we made our way to Ponderosa for dinner. Then back to the hotel for a good nights sleep. When we woke up it was back to the water park for some Lazy River, and more Water slides. I could not believe how much Bryce enjoyed riding them big water slides. Again after a few hours we packed our bags and headed to Mabel's for some Breakfast/Lunch. We then made our way home by stopping to see Uncle David, Aunt Nancy, and Debbie. Then we stopped at Uncle David Goldsmith too to visit for a bit. We finally got back on the road and made it home about 3 hours later than anticipated. I know Bryce and I had a great time and want to thank Grandma for such a wonderful weekend. Bryce especially enjoyed the pizza party that he and grandma had at 7 am in the morning when they woke up. I enjoyed the trip in its entirety but, I would have to say just driving in the car with Mom and talking and looking at the beautiful land of Michigan was Great.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home was Once Home of White Water Millionaire
Well this evening I did my homework again and dug up some interesting information on this Historical Building that is now the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. We spent a few hours here waiting to have a moment of viewing to see Uncle Bob before he was to be cremated. This building is absolutely beautiful and as you will read below has alot of historical value. The inside of this place just keeps your mind wondering what is would have been like to be in this building back in the late 1800's. You truly would have had to been here to get a total understanding. If you want to take a quick virtual tour copy and paste this website in your address browser : http://www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com/companyMain.asp the virtual tour link is at the very top of the page.
TRAVERSE CITY,MI- To think that the Perry Hannah House, home to the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, was once slated for the wrecking ball would make historians everywhere shudder.
In 1891 Traverse City philanthropist Perry Hannah began construction of this magnificent Victorian dwelling at 305 Sixth Street. He spared no expense when it came to building his home and his attention to detail is evident throughout the structure. In fact, Hannah was so particular that he had the first two staircases that were installed taken out because he was dissatisfied with them. He also insisted that Tiffany's of New York use costly zinc instead of lead in all of the house's beveled glass because of zinc's durability.
As you walk through the Perry Hannah House, the first emotion you feel is awe, followed by a sense of anticipation at what the next of the 34 rooms could possibly have in store. As you gaze at the hand-cut crystal chandeliers and copper ceilings, you can't help but appreciate the craftsmanship that went into building this house. The breathtaking woodwork throughout is truly a tribute to the two master carvers enlisted for the project.
The residence has four floors, each boasting 3500 square feet. While it has always been heated with radiators and steam heat, its ten ornate fireplaces provide added warmth and a sense of coziness to this vast home. Other special features include a skylight that shines through the entranceway and a verandah that practically encompasses the entire house.
Perry Hannah owned the home until his death in 1904. His son inherited it, but died in 1905, leaving the estate to his wife, Elsie. She hung on to the property for many years until she found herself in need of funds and decided to have the house demolished. Luckily, razing the home proved too costly, so she donated it to the American Legion.
Shortly thereafter, the elementary and junior high sections of the central school were lost in a fire. The home, at that time referred to as the Legion Memorial House, was temporarily used as a grade school from October 1934 to April 1937 for those students within walking distance.
Later in 1937, the owner of the Weaver Funeral Home purchased the building, renaming it the H.L. Weaver Funeral Home, but making few changes otherwise. It became the Weaver-Walbrink Funeral Chapel in 1945, then the Reynolds Funeral Home in 1949 when Floyd Reynolds assumed ownership. Reynolds operated the business for twenty years before selling it to Fred Hanson.
On New Year's Day 1977, Jack and Maxine Jonkhoff acquired the funeral home, however, they waited six years before renaming it the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. In 1992, their son Dan and his wife Peg purchased the firm. They have kept both the interior and exterior of the funeral home virtually true to the original Perry Hannah House. They have added garages and Peg, a master gardener, has transformed the grounds into a Victorian flower garden with winding paths that invite client families and visitors alike to enjoy the peaceful beauty of nature.
Guided tours of this landmark are available weekdays by appointment. There is no admission fee for the tours, but donations are welcome. They will be forwarded to the Carnegie Library, as Perry Hannah purchased its land as one of his last gifts to the community.
The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home is Traverse City's only locally owned, family-owned funeral home and is a member of the National Selected Morticians Association and Selected Independent Funeral Homes.
Robert J. "Bob" Dewitt
This past Friday Uncle Bob passed away and looked very peaceful as I had the opportunity to visit his body briefly at the Funeral Home before he was to be cremated. I know many people have their different views of Uncle Bob but, I will always remember him as a pleasant man and enjoyable to be around. My mother told me this past weekend that Uncle Bob was such a wonderful man and she enjoyed spending time with him. I don't recall the last date exactly I saw Uncle Bob but, I remember it was at Grandpa and Grandma's Farm and we were sitting in the Dining room sitting at the table. I remember Uncle Bob with his Dark Frame Glasses and talking and pointing with his hand and his one missing finger as he was so involved at telling is story. It was nice to meet his girlfriend Fran. I just had a short time to sit and talk with Fran but, you could tell that she cared and loved Uncle Bob whole-heartedly. You will forever be missed Uncle Bob. May you now Rest In Peace.
Robert J. "Bob" DeWitt | ||
ROBERT "BOB" J. DeWITT, 83, of Traverse City, passed away Friday, March 23, 2007, at Grand Traverse Pavilions. Per Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. |
I found the above obituary at http://www.record-eagle.com and then went to the obituary section.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Kindergarten Orientation
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
My Favorite T-Shirt
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Waste......Waste....WASTE !!!
"LOOK MOM"-- I ATE RICE ! ! !
Ok so the story must be told. When I was younger probably about 6 years old we were at my babysitters house after church for dinner. The menu served rice which was something I didn't want to eat. Well my dear babysitter told me I was going to try a bite and that was the end of discussion in so many words. Well I took my bite and low and behold I got sick.... meaning I tossed my cookies and let me tell ya....... it wasn't cookies that came out...LOL Well ever since that day I took on the saying that I was "Allergic" to rice. That was my polite way of saying I don't want to eat the little white stuff that looks like maggots.
Well last week at work our work ordered Hunan Gardens Chinese for lunch and I felt a weird feeling overcome me and I ordered rice. This was the first time in nearly 24 years that I actually ate rice. Believe it or not I actually liked the stuff. I liked it so much I pleaded with my wife to let us order from Great Wall Express which is right around the corner from our house and this time I didn't only like I really Loved it. Once again tonight we had Great Wall Express and the pictures above show me eating the stuff I am "Allergic" to and actually enjoying it. I can't believe the amount of food you get for what little price you pay! Let's just say I have overcome one of my most dislikes.
Tonight through my fortune cookie I learned how to say Soy Bean in Chinese (Dou-ya)
My Fortune was: Your heart will always make itself known through your words.
Lucky Numbers: 34,22,13,7,11,30
Spring Is Here!!!
Speaking of Spring, an old Italian man lived alone
in the country.He wanted to dig his tomato garden,
but it was very hard work as the ground was hard.
His only son, Vincent, who used to help him,was in
prison. The old man wrote a letter to his son and
described his predicament.
Dear Vincent,
I am feeling pretty bad because it looks like
I won't be able to plant my tomato garden this year.
I'm just getting too old to be digging up a garden
plot. If you were here my troubles would be over. I
know you would dig the plot for me.
Love Dad
A few days later he received a letter from his son.
Dear Dad,
Not for nothing, but don't dig up that garden.
That's where I buried the BODIES.
Love Vinnie
At 4 a.m. the next morning, FBI agents and local
police arrived and dug up the entire area without
finding any bodies. They apologized to the old man
and left.
That same day the old man received another letter
from his son.
Dear Dad,
Go ahead and plant the tomatoes now. That's the
best I could do under the circumstances
Love, Vinnie
Monday, March 19, 2007
Amaker dismissed after six seasons as Michigan coach
Well now the hunt is on for a new coach. Hopefully Michigan will be smart and find someone who is well known and has the potential to bring in good recruits. I also hope they will bring someone that feels academic is important and runs a clean cut program. My personal opinion and I have heard rumor buzzing around that Coach Bob Knight could be a possible Candidate. I have heard Coach Knight state he wants back in the BIG TEN. I know many people don't care for Coach Knight and think he is reckless and runs a violent program. That maybe the case but, Coach Knight knows how to win and he has the highest percentage when it comes to graduating his basketball players to any other school.
Tommy Amaker Coaching Career
Season | School | Overall | Conf. | Postseason | Postseason Round |
2006-07 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 22-13 | 8-8 | Postseason NIT | Second Round |
2005-06 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 22-11 | 8-8 | Postseason NIT | NIT Finalist |
2004-05 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 13-18 | 4-12 | ||
2003-04 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 23-11 | 8-8 | Postseason NIT | NIT Champions |
2002-03 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 18-12 | 10-6 | ineligible for posteason | |
2001-02 | Michigan (Head Coach) | 11-18 | 5-11 | ||
Record | 109-83 | 43-53 |
WARNING LABELS
On a Sears hairdryer -- Do not use while sleeping.
(That's the only time I have to work on my hair.)
On a bag of Fritos -- You could be a winner!
No purchase necessary. Details inside.(The shoplifter special?)
On a bar of Dial soap -- Directions: Use like regular soap.
(And that would be?)
On some Swanson frozen dinners -- Serving suggestion: Defrost.
(But it's just a suggestion.)
On Tesco's Tiramisu dessert (printed on bottom)
-- Do not turn upside down.(Well ... Duh, a bit late, huh!)
On Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding
-- Product will be hot after heating.(And you thought?)
On packaging for a Rowenta iron
-- Do not iron clothes on body.(But wouldn't this save me time?)
On Boot's Children Cough Medicine
-- Do not drive a car or operate machinery after taking this medication.
(We could do a lot to reduce the rate of construction accidents if we could
just get those 5 year-olds with head-colds off those bulldozers.)
On Nytol Sleep Aid -- Warning: May cause drowsiness.
(I'm taking this because?)
On many brands of Christmas lights
-- For indoor or outdoor use only. (As opposed to what?)
On a Japanese food processor
-- Not to be used for the other use.
(Now, somebody out there, help me on this. I'm a bit curious.)
On an American Airlines packet of nuts
-- Instructions: Open packet, eat nuts. (Step 3: say what?)
On a child's Superman costume
-- Wearing of this garment does not enable you to fly.
(I don't blame the company. I blame the parents for this one)
Sunday, March 18, 2007
MAJOR DAN WHISNANT
Monday, March 12, 2007
(N)ot (I)mportant (T)ournament
Before the season Michigan men's basketball coach Tommy Amaker said the next step for the program was the NCAA Tournament. Instead, the Wolverines will play in the National Invitation Tournament or as I heard some one call it earlier today the NOT IMPORTANT TOURNAMENT. They will be playing in the tournament for the 3rd time in the last 4 years.
The Wolverines are the No. 3 seed in the North Bracket of the 32 team tournament. If Michigan (21-12) can win over their first round match-up against Utah State then they will play the winner of the game between Florida State and the Mid-American Conference's Toledo on Thursday.
So how far out of the NCAA Tournament picture was Michigan? Let's just say it wasn't even close. There were alot of good teams that should have made the NCAA Tournament this year but, they can only pick 65 teams. I heard today on ESPN the coach for Tennessee Volunteers suggest increasing the Tournament from 65 team bracket to an 80 team bracket. I am not so sure I really am fond of that idea. Well it is March Madness Basketball and I have to go fill out my bracket. And even though the NIT is not very important tournament I will be following my Wolverines very closely.
TJ DUCKETT
VITAMIN WATER
Well it seems I have been giving my opinion on different things this past week so I figure why stop now? Last Friday while I was grocery shopping Mejier had their Vitamin Water on sale 10/$10.00 so I purchased 10 thinking I would replace it with my usual purchase of POWERADE or GATORADE. Well guess what VITAMIN WATER does not taste good at all. I was totally disappointed with the flavor and taste. I guess I expected it to have a good quench like Powerade or Gatorade does... Well I was wrong!
Sunday, March 11, 2007
ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR 2007 (ATLANTA)
Happy Birthday Grandpa Veld
Grandpa also loved his farming days. His Barn with the Cows and few pigs that he tended too along with the chickens. I remember running out to the barn and watching Grandpa sit on the ole stool and milk the cows and feed the pigs. He used to run that Ford Tractor all over the Farm Yard and out in the field while he was bailing hay. And we surely can't forget the garden. You know the one that grew Macaroni (inside joke) Grandpa loved tending to his garden with all his vegetables. He was so focused on those potato's each and every year.
Then again Grandpa was a man after my own heart because, he loved to eat. I remember spending the night with him and Grandma and we would eat out at Russ' or Cooper's Cafe' , oh and we can't forget one of their favorites Bill Knapp's. I remember going out to eat with them and every time we went to Russ' I would ask Grandpa if I could order the Slim Jim sandwich and he would respond "Porky" you can order what ever you want as long as you eat it all.
Looking back these are just a few of the many memories I had with Grandpa. Although I have to say one memory I will never forget is sitting out front at the house on his swing. Grandma had already passed away and Grandpa and I just sat there. We never really said much while sitting there but, I know that there was alot going through our minds. Oh how we missed Grandma and her being gone left an emptiness inside us that never can really be explained. Just sitting their with breeze beating us in the face on a cool crisp morning. Nothing had to be said yet, I know we knew what each other was thinking...... I LOVE YOU GRANDPA AND I NEVER WILL FORGET YOU ! !
Checkers = Burger, Fries, and Drink
After Church this morning we stopped at Checkers which is the old Hot 'n' Now located downtown on Michigan Ave. I have heard alot of my coworkers and friends rave about how great their burger and fries are. Well I can tell you first hand if you like a good hearty burger then this is the place to go. Then again their fries are even something more to rave about. We ordered the Bacon Ranch Cheddar Fries which are so good and messy that you pretty much need a fork to eat them. And when you order your drinks just keep in mind that their sizes are extreme.... Their medium really is a Large and their Large is really a Jumbo if you catch my drift. Price wise they are pretty good in comparison to Mc Donald's or Burger King maybe a few cents more but, I promise you get what you pay for. So there is my review on Checkers..... If you are ever downtown and hungry for a Burger, Fries, and Drink why not give Checkers a try.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
REFRESHING TASTE + KICK = VAULT RED BLITZ
Yesterday I was shopping at Meijer's for groceries when I came across this new drink that Coca-cola has produced. It was on sale 2/$1.00 so I had to purchase a couple and give it my own personal critique.
Well I have to admit that Pepsi products are my personal favorite and Pepsi has Code Red which is similar to Vault Red Blitz. Although I give Vault Red Blitz a better taste and thought it to be crisp and refreshing. The only think is that Code Red comes in diet... so hopefully down the road soon if this product does good for Coca-cola we will see Red Blitz hit the Zero Zone like they did with Vault Zero which is similar to Mountain Dew or Diet Mountain Dew. I personally love Diet Mountain Dew though.
So if you get a chance don't be afraid to try a new drink when it comes out to the market. You might be surprised just how good it taste.... then again you might not ! !
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME !
* This year DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME begins on March 11th, the second Sunday in March and ends on November 4th, the first Sunday in November.
* DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME is not observed in Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Arizona. The Navajo Nation participates in DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME, even in Arizona, due to its large size and location in three states.
* It's DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME, NOT DAYLIGHT "SAVINGS" TIME. We are saving daylight, so it's not plural.
* DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME was first observed during World War I to conserve resources.
* If you are using a older computer system, find out now about what the new time change will do to your computer. Visit www.intelliadmin.com for more information.
* Changing to DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME is voluntary...... You just might be late to all activities or functions that you need to be at. I am sure your BOSS would not like that ! ! !
Friday, March 09, 2007
NO BIG DANCE THIS YEAR ! ! !
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
IDEAS
WHAT IN THE WORLD?
1. John Couey found guilty of Jessica Lunsford Murder !
2. NASA fires Love-Triangle Astronaut Nowak
3. 2 Infant Bodies found under Texas Home
4. New U.S. Coins Missing "IN GOD WE TRUST" (Isn't that the TRUTH ! ! !)
These are just a few of the many news headlines of today...... Now let me just give you a quick insight on how I feel.
1. I think we need to start utilizing CAPITAL PUNISHMENT on a much larger and drastic scale. No more sitting in prison for life.... You take a life then your life must be taken.
2. I think we need to support our troops to our fullest capabilities and learn in the realm of politics to work together and sometime agree to disagree and see things for what they are worth and look past our own personal agenda when it comes to politics. Republicans and Democrats need to come together for the sake of this nation.
3. We need to rethink the amount of money we pay our professional athletes. And we complain about our country being in debt yet, we pay our athletes millions and millions of dollars each year.
4. We need to put God and values back in our court system, school systems, currency....ect....ect...... Now that we have taken God, our Ten Commandments, Pledge of Allegiance out of our system we are a nation heading for absolute trouble.
Tell me what you think?