Several have commented on this, so I thought that I would make it an official post.
With the purchase of the PT for the Clark family, it was a $9000 expense that we weren't expecting. So in light of the family budget, we thought it would be best to drop the iPhone promise part of the diet.
I am however planning to continue with the diet. But at this point, it is an unsponsored diet. (If you would like to sponsor the new diet, as previously before the iPhone diet, please feel free to comment and we'll line something up...).
But the decision was primarily a family budget decision. With the purchase of a new car, it seemed a little extravagant to purchase a $600 cell phone/IPod that I really didn't need.
Jim
P.S. I am planning to save up what little allowance I get in hopes of purchasing the IPhone at some point soon...
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
QVC ladder fall
After talking about the other video of a QVC messup... I thought I would track this one down and post it. I think it's the best.
Watch... He's going to show us how to use the ladder...
Jim
iPhone Commecial
Here's a pretty sweet commercial for the new IPhone... if only the diet still awarded the phone...
Last 5 hits on my blog page
Here are the locations of the last 5 hits on my blog... Hopefully you're there!!!
-Normal, Illinois
-Peterson, Alabama
-Knoxville, Tennessee
-St. Charles, Illinois
-Aurora, Illinois
I think that is the most Illinois hits that I've ever had at one point.
Jim
-Normal, Illinois
-Peterson, Alabama
-Knoxville, Tennessee
-St. Charles, Illinois
-Aurora, Illinois
I think that is the most Illinois hits that I've ever had at one point.
Jim
By The Tree... The Turning... Rush of Fools... Tickets are on sale!!!
Tickets are ON SALE for our upcoming concert on April 1st. We started over the weekend and sold a handful. But I think we will sell a lot more this week. Tickets are just $7 and can be purchased by either calling the Fox Valley Christian Church office at 630.208.8484 extension 28 or by visiting ITickets.
It is going to be an awesome show. You aren't going to want to miss it. (Unless of course you don't live within 30 miles of Batavia... and in which case... just wait until it comes near you...)
Jim
New Ride!!!! PT Cruiser
Sorry that I haven't been able to blog as much lately. But I'll hit you with several new blogs this morning so you have something to read.
Jackie and I bought the PT Cruiser that we were checking out. I'll try to post some actual pics of it and not this stock photo from Vehix. There are a couple of problems (mechanically) with it. But we talked the dealership down to what we wanted, even though we had to walk away a couple of times. They finally came around.
I'm looking forward to getting situated driving one car. The Sunfire is still in our parking lot at the apartment. We've got Grant Oler's Honda today. Jackie's got her car there and now there's the PT Cruiser. If they find out who all these cars belong to, they are likely to pitch a fit.
But the PT is awesome. And I really looking forward to getting comfortable driving just one car!!!
Jim
Sunday, February 25, 2007
High Voltage Outline - February 25, 2007
Tonight was an off-night attendance-wise. It was snowing pretty hardcore this afternoon and so that may have turned away some students.
But overall it was a pretty decent night.
Here is the rundown of the night:
Lesson Topic: What's the Big Deal with Sex? Week 3: What A Girl Wants
'Fun Factor': Average
Volunteer Involvement: Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Average
Length of Lesson: 45 minutes (with 3 video clips thrown in)
Student Response: Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 7
-----------------------
Here's tonight's outline. Parents: There are discusssion questions below the outline.
What’s the BIG Deal with Sex?
Part 3- What a Girl Wants
High Voltage – February 28, 2007 – Jim Clark
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
1. We are DESIGNED to be in a relationship with one another
The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18
2. We are designed with DIFFERENCES
Top 5 Needs For Married Men And Women
M: Sex ‡ W: Affection
M: Recreation ‡ W: Conversation
M: Attractiveness of Spouse ‡ W: Financial Support
M: Domestic Support ‡ W: Honesty and Openness
M: Admiration and Respect ‡ W: Family Commitment
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27
Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” John 4:4-7
1. Jesus shows RESPECT
If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” John 4:10.
The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” John 4:15
He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband.” She replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” John 4:16,18
2. Jesus wants to KNOW her
Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. I know that the Messiah (called Christ) is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I who speak to you am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why were you talking to her?” Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” John 4:19, 25-29.
3. Jesus totally ACCEPTS
WORLD’S WAY (LIES) GOD’S WAY (TRUTH)
How you LOOK = how you are accepted. You are ACCEPTED as you are
How you PERFORM = how you are accepted. You are KNOWN
How you FAKE LIFE = how you are accepted. You are RESPECTED
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:1, 14
Show proper respect to everyone: Lord the brotherhood of believers; fear God. 1 Peter 2:17
The Bottom Line: Many of the problems that happen between guys and girls come from not taking time to understand each other.
---------------------------------------
Discussion Questions:
1. How does it feel when someone really, really knows you and respects you?
2. Do you feel like your relationships respect you, know you and accept you for who you are or do you feel like they pressure you to be someone you're not? Why or why not?
3. What do you need to do in your life, what decisions do you need to make, in order to be a "10" Christian and attract "10" Christians?
---------------------------------------
Overall, it was a fairly decent night. Attandence was down a bit. But the topic was great. And I'm really excited for those who made the trip out.
Jim
But overall it was a pretty decent night.
Here is the rundown of the night:
Lesson Topic: What's the Big Deal with Sex? Week 3: What A Girl Wants
'Fun Factor': Average
Volunteer Involvement: Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Average
Length of Lesson: 45 minutes (with 3 video clips thrown in)
Student Response: Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 7
-----------------------
Here's tonight's outline. Parents: There are discusssion questions below the outline.
What’s the BIG Deal with Sex?
Part 3- What a Girl Wants
High Voltage – February 28, 2007 – Jim Clark
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
1. We are DESIGNED to be in a relationship with one another
The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18
2. We are designed with DIFFERENCES
Top 5 Needs For Married Men And Women
M: Sex ‡ W: Affection
M: Recreation ‡ W: Conversation
M: Attractiveness of Spouse ‡ W: Financial Support
M: Domestic Support ‡ W: Honesty and Openness
M: Admiration and Respect ‡ W: Family Commitment
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27
Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” John 4:4-7
1. Jesus shows RESPECT
If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” John 4:10.
The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” John 4:15
He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband.” She replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” John 4:16,18
2. Jesus wants to KNOW her
Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. I know that the Messiah (called Christ) is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I who speak to you am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why were you talking to her?” Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” John 4:19, 25-29.
3. Jesus totally ACCEPTS
WORLD’S WAY (LIES) GOD’S WAY (TRUTH)
How you LOOK = how you are accepted. You are ACCEPTED as you are
How you PERFORM = how you are accepted. You are KNOWN
How you FAKE LIFE = how you are accepted. You are RESPECTED
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:1, 14
Show proper respect to everyone: Lord the brotherhood of believers; fear God. 1 Peter 2:17
The Bottom Line: Many of the problems that happen between guys and girls come from not taking time to understand each other.
---------------------------------------
Discussion Questions:
1. How does it feel when someone really, really knows you and respects you?
2. Do you feel like your relationships respect you, know you and accept you for who you are or do you feel like they pressure you to be someone you're not? Why or why not?
3. What do you need to do in your life, what decisions do you need to make, in order to be a "10" Christian and attract "10" Christians?
---------------------------------------
Overall, it was a fairly decent night. Attandence was down a bit. But the topic was great. And I'm really excited for those who made the trip out.
Jim
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
High Voltage Outline - February 18, 2007
Sunday night was a great night at High Voltage. We talked through week 2 of the "What's the Big Deal with Sex?" series and had great feedback from the students. We talked about guys... and what a guy's deal is.
Here is the rundown of the night:
Lesson Topic: What's the Big Deal with Sex? Week 2: What's a Guy's Deal?
'Fun Factor': Above Average
Volunteer Involvement: Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Above Average
Length of Lesson: 39 minutes (with 1 video clip thrown in)
Student Response: Way Above Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 8
-----------------------------------------
Here's the outline:What’s the Big Deal with Sex?
Week 2-What’s a Guy’s Deal?
High Voltage – February 18, 2007 – Jim Clark
----------------------
The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and it have it to the full.” John 10:10
To the Jews who had believed in him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-33
SOME STEROTYPICAL DIFFERENCES
Girls are RELATIONAL Guys are PHYSICAL
Girls are VERBAL Guys are VISUAL
Girls prefer ROMANCE Guys prefer ACTION
Girls like CHIVALRY Guys like BUDDIES
Girls tend to FEEL their emotions Guys tend to THINK their emotions
Girls like EXPERIENCES Guys want to be EXPERIENCED
A girl’s sex drive is SLOW A guy’s sex drive is FAST
HOW CAN THESE DIFFERENCES IMPACT A LIFE?
1. Appreciate God’s design and view yourself as an ORIGINAL MASTERPIECE
(When you realize you’re an original masterpiece…it’s easier to give honor to yourself)
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my moth’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Psalm 139:13-15
It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
2. Understand the difference between male & female and HONOR ONE ANOTHER
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
3. Make a commitment to honor God with YOUR BODY
Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who united himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will be become one flesh.” But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit. Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, who you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:15-20
The Bottom Line:
Knowing the differences in guys and girls can save you some pain.
------------------------------------
Questions for discussion:
1. Which of the differences between guys and girls seems the biggest? Why do you think that?
2. Which of these differences do have personal experience with?
3. Do you feel that knowing the differences will help you avoid some pain? Why or why not?
------------------------------------
It was a really great night at High Voltage. I'm really enjoying this series. I almost can't wait until next week.
Jim
Here is the rundown of the night:
Lesson Topic: What's the Big Deal with Sex? Week 2: What's a Guy's Deal?
'Fun Factor': Above Average
Volunteer Involvement: Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Above Average
Length of Lesson: 39 minutes (with 1 video clip thrown in)
Student Response: Way Above Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 8
-----------------------------------------
Here's the outline:What’s the Big Deal with Sex?
Week 2-What’s a Guy’s Deal?
High Voltage – February 18, 2007 – Jim Clark
----------------------
The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and it have it to the full.” John 10:10
To the Jews who had believed in him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-33
SOME STEROTYPICAL DIFFERENCES
Girls are RELATIONAL Guys are PHYSICAL
Girls are VERBAL Guys are VISUAL
Girls prefer ROMANCE Guys prefer ACTION
Girls like CHIVALRY Guys like BUDDIES
Girls tend to FEEL their emotions Guys tend to THINK their emotions
Girls like EXPERIENCES Guys want to be EXPERIENCED
A girl’s sex drive is SLOW A guy’s sex drive is FAST
HOW CAN THESE DIFFERENCES IMPACT A LIFE?
1. Appreciate God’s design and view yourself as an ORIGINAL MASTERPIECE
(When you realize you’re an original masterpiece…it’s easier to give honor to yourself)
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my moth’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Psalm 139:13-15
It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
2. Understand the difference between male & female and HONOR ONE ANOTHER
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
3. Make a commitment to honor God with YOUR BODY
Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who united himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will be become one flesh.” But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit. Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, who you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:15-20
The Bottom Line:
Knowing the differences in guys and girls can save you some pain.
------------------------------------
Questions for discussion:
1. Which of the differences between guys and girls seems the biggest? Why do you think that?
2. Which of these differences do have personal experience with?
3. Do you feel that knowing the differences will help you avoid some pain? Why or why not?
------------------------------------
It was a really great night at High Voltage. I'm really enjoying this series. I almost can't wait until next week.
Jim
New Ride??? PT Cruiser
The other night Jackie and I drove a car that might be the new addition to a proud Clark family... a 2001 Chrystler PT Cruiser.It's silver... it's got 70,000 miles... sunroof... CD... leather...
It's really nice.
I am picking it up this evening to have our mechanic take a look at it. If everything checks out with it on Thursday, we may have a new addition to the family. More on this later...
Jim
Monday, February 19, 2007
R.I.P. Pontiac Sunfire
Well...It's a sad day at the Clark household this President's Day. On Friday it was determined that the Pontiac Sunfire that we have come to rely on has a "terminal" transmission issue.
So we are going to bid farewell to the Sunfire. We thought long and hard about the decision... we prayed about it... and just didn't feel like we could put as much into fixing the transmission as we paid initally for the car. Plus, it has a few other frustrated and expensive issues that are going to need to be addressed very soon, if not immediately. Namely the body damage done by last weekend's attempt to drive without a wheel. (See earlier blog entry.)
So we have made the hard decision. We're going to miss you my friend!!! (Calling hours are available upon request...)
Jim
Thursday, February 15, 2007
By The Tree... The Turning... Rush of Fools are coming to Fox Valley
Fox Valley Christian Church is about to host a major concert event. By the Tree... The Turning and Rush of Fools are scheduled for a concert here at Fox Valley Christian Church (40w150 Main Street, Batavia, IL) on April 1, 2007 at 6 pm. I am in charge of administrating the show!!!! Wow!!!
But I'm really looking forward to it. I think that it will be a great event for our students and our church. Plus, personally, it's just a lot of fun.
If you are interested in hearing a little bit of the music of The World On Fire Tour, visit this link.
Tickets are just $7 in advance and $10 at the door on the day of the event. Tickets for this event can be ordered by calling the church office at 630.208.8484. It should be a great event!!!
Jim
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
High Voltage Outline - February 11, 2007
Lesson Topic: What's the Big Deal with Sex? Week 1: Truth vs Lies
'Fun Factor': Average
Volunteer Involvement: Above Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Average
Length of Lesson: 33 minutes (with 1 video clip thrown in)
Student Response: Above Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 7
---------------------------
Here's the message outline:
What’s the Big Deal with Sex?
Week 1: Distinguishing Truth From Lies
High Voltage – February 11, 2007 – Jim Clark
_______________________________________________________
(Jesus said) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
To the Jews who had believed in him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
SEX MESSAGES FROM THE WORLD’S WAY
∑ Sex is no BIG DEAL
∑ Sex is purely PHYSICAL
∑ God is DOWN on sex
∑ Everyone is DOING IT
∑ It’s impossible to be PURE
WHAT YOU DON’T HEAR FROM THE WORLD’S WAY
∑ Your sexual decisions will leave LIFE-LONG MEMORIES
∑ Your sexual decisions can have LIFE-LONG CONSEQUENCES
∑ The best sex lives are found in MARRIAGES WHO WAITED
THE CHALLENGE TO CARE ABOUT YOUR LIFE…
1. Investigate God’s plan for GREAT SEX
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
2. Search for God’s WISDOM
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10
3. Experience God’s FORGIVENESS
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
4. Enjoy God’s HOPE
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
The Bottom Line: Sex is a big deal because it has big CONSEQUENCES.
--------------------------
Discussion questions for student/parent interaction:
1. Which of the lies (from the world) have you heard recently and in what context did you hear it?
2. Which of the truths surprised you the most? Why?
3. How do you plan over the next several weeks to investigate God's plan for sex?
--------------------------
It was a good night. It was a great night to start the series. We had several students come up and ask questions and check out some of the materials that were offered through the library. All in all, it was a good night!
Jim
'Fun Factor': Average
Volunteer Involvement: Above Average
Music: N/A
Student Involvement in Music: N/A
Lesson Quality: Average
Length of Lesson: 33 minutes (with 1 video clip thrown in)
Student Response: Above Average
Overall Night Rating (scale of 1(not good) to 10(awesome)): 7
---------------------------
Here's the message outline:
What’s the Big Deal with Sex?
Week 1: Distinguishing Truth From Lies
High Voltage – February 11, 2007 – Jim Clark
_______________________________________________________
(Jesus said) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
To the Jews who had believed in him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
SEX MESSAGES FROM THE WORLD’S WAY
∑ Sex is no BIG DEAL
∑ Sex is purely PHYSICAL
∑ God is DOWN on sex
∑ Everyone is DOING IT
∑ It’s impossible to be PURE
WHAT YOU DON’T HEAR FROM THE WORLD’S WAY
∑ Your sexual decisions will leave LIFE-LONG MEMORIES
∑ Your sexual decisions can have LIFE-LONG CONSEQUENCES
∑ The best sex lives are found in MARRIAGES WHO WAITED
THE CHALLENGE TO CARE ABOUT YOUR LIFE…
1. Investigate God’s plan for GREAT SEX
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
2. Search for God’s WISDOM
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10
3. Experience God’s FORGIVENESS
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
4. Enjoy God’s HOPE
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
The Bottom Line: Sex is a big deal because it has big CONSEQUENCES.
--------------------------
Discussion questions for student/parent interaction:
1. Which of the lies (from the world) have you heard recently and in what context did you hear it?
2. Which of the truths surprised you the most? Why?
3. How do you plan over the next several weeks to investigate God's plan for sex?
--------------------------
It was a good night. It was a great night to start the series. We had several students come up and ask questions and check out some of the materials that were offered through the library. All in all, it was a good night!
Jim
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Ever driven without a wheel? Part 2
After spending nearly $400 and sitting in the car for 5 hours waiting for AAA to pick up the car on Friday, my car has all four weeks back on the car.
We had to replace the wheel hub and do a few other assorted tasks... but for the most part, the car is back in working condition. We're going to have to have a body shop look at the body panels that were damaged in the mehem. But we'll do that at some point in the near future.
For where we're at right now... the car is back with all 4 wheels securely on and rolling.
Jim
We had to replace the wheel hub and do a few other assorted tasks... but for the most part, the car is back in working condition. We're going to have to have a body shop look at the body panels that were damaged in the mehem. But we'll do that at some point in the near future.
For where we're at right now... the car is back with all 4 wheels securely on and rolling.
Jim
Snow day BABY!!!
It's a Tuesday and I'm still in the Tri-cities area...
Today with the inclimate weather, Jackie and I couldn't make our weekly trek down to Lincoln for school. But that is actually a good thing since the college and seminary are closed for the day.
I'm going to be catching up on some reading... and watching the snow fly!!!
Jim
Today with the inclimate weather, Jackie and I couldn't make our weekly trek down to Lincoln for school. But that is actually a good thing since the college and seminary are closed for the day.
I'm going to be catching up on some reading... and watching the snow fly!!!
Jim
What???: Navy may deploy anti-terrorism dolphins
A friend came across this story and for me, it just fell into the "What? Catagory." Take a look for yourself...
"Dozens of dolphins and sea lions trained to detect and apprehend waterborne attackers could be sent to patrol a military base in Washington state, the Navy said Monday. In a notice published in this week's Federal Register, the Navy said it needs to bolster security at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, on the Puget Sound close to Seattle."
I'm all for homeland security and protecting our borders... But this just amazed me.
To read the rest of the story, visit THIS site.
Jim
"Dozens of dolphins and sea lions trained to detect and apprehend waterborne attackers could be sent to patrol a military base in Washington state, the Navy said Monday. In a notice published in this week's Federal Register, the Navy said it needs to bolster security at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, on the Puget Sound close to Seattle."
I'm all for homeland security and protecting our borders... But this just amazed me.
To read the rest of the story, visit THIS site.
Jim
Bears and Colts Pray Together following the Super Bowl part 2... Story
"Suddenly, in the middle of the celebration that had the locker room buzzing after the Indianapolis Colts' Super Bowl XLI victory, Tony Dungy had an announcement.
They were not leaving Dolphin Stadium without one more piece of business.
A prayer.
Dungy had the TV cameras in the room shut off. The interviews with maybe a dozen reporters still lingering stopped. The pictures players were snapping of each other holding the Lombardi Trophy needed to wait."
For more on this story... Visit this link...
The Bears and Colts paused to have prayer together... Earlier I posted the picture. But what an incredible scene of focus, intentionality and commitment.
Jim
Monday, February 12, 2007
Shuffle Up and Deal
I hit shuffle on my IPod and then play...
Here are the first five songs that came up:
-O Praise Him (All This for a King)(Oceanix Mix) by David Crowder Band off the Sunsets and Sushi album
-I Can Feel Your Love by Paul Wright off the Sunrise to Sunset Album
-Hillbilly Shoes by Montgomery Gentry off the Tattos and Scars Album
-I So Hate Consequences by Relient K off the X:17 Christian Rock Hits! 2006 Album
-The Dance by Garth Brooks off the Hits Album
Jim
Here are the first five songs that came up:
-O Praise Him (All This for a King)(Oceanix Mix) by David Crowder Band off the Sunsets and Sushi album
-I Can Feel Your Love by Paul Wright off the Sunrise to Sunset Album
-Hillbilly Shoes by Montgomery Gentry off the Tattos and Scars Album
-I So Hate Consequences by Relient K off the X:17 Christian Rock Hits! 2006 Album
-The Dance by Garth Brooks off the Hits Album
Jim
Friday, February 09, 2007
Ever driven without a wheel?
Until today, I hadn't either.But today I got this wonderful privilege. A couple of days ago, my Sunfire picked up a vibration. But I wasn't sure what it was.
I have an idea now.
We (my wife and I) were on our way down to Wheaton to the garage where we get our cars worked on. And as I crossed the bridge in Geneva, suddenly the wheel fell off!!!!
)
I limped the car across the bridge and into a parking lot where we called AAA (well worth the money by the way). AAA will deliver the car the rest of the way. Very interesting day....In fact, I am still sitting in the car. I happen to be blogging from the car.
)
This last picture is great... Especially with the missing front wheel leaning against the car...
My wife looks thrilled...
Jim
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Comfortably Numb (the most powerful version)
Here's a pretty sweet video from Pink Floyd's "Pulse video." I would love to see these guys live... but I may have been born too late.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
What's the BIG Deal with Sex? Series
This Sunday night at High Voltage, we'll be starting our every other year series on the topic of Sex. This year's title is "What's the BIG Deal with Sex?" The series is 7 weeks long, including a week 7 Q & A time.
The topics for the series are:
Week 1: What's the Big Deal? Discerning Truth from Lies
Week 2: What's a Guy's deal?
Week 3: What's a Girl's deal?
Week 4: What does the Bible say about sex?
Week 5: How far is TOO far?
Week 6: What if I've messed up?
Week 7: What if I've got questions?
As we progress through the series, the outlines will be posted here in order to create conversation between parents and students about this series and vital topic. If you have questions about this series, feel free to post a comment or email me at jim@fvcc.com.
Jim
The topics for the series are:
Week 1: What's the Big Deal? Discerning Truth from Lies
Week 2: What's a Guy's deal?
Week 3: What's a Girl's deal?
Week 4: What does the Bible say about sex?
Week 5: How far is TOO far?
Week 6: What if I've messed up?
Week 7: What if I've got questions?
As we progress through the series, the outlines will be posted here in order to create conversation between parents and students about this series and vital topic. If you have questions about this series, feel free to post a comment or email me at jim@fvcc.com.
Jim
Bears and Colts Pray Together following the Super Bowl
After Sunday night's Super Bowl, Tony Dungy, Lovie Smith, the Chicago Bears and the Indy Colts took some time and prayed together. This is a pretty awesome picture. You can tell that it is after the game by looking at the "Championship T-Shirt" that Tony is wearing.I haven't been able to figure out where this picture came from, but when I do, I will edit this blog post to reflect the whole story.
If you know where it came from, please feel free to comment!
Jim
Too much snow last night...
I was downstate yesterday for class again. And man did it snow. It snowed so hard that my Hebrew prof, Dr. Hall, let those of us with long drives leave early (after taking our Vocab quiz). A normally 3 hour (2 1/2 +) drive took almost 4 1/2. The freeway wasn't too bad but there were some bad places.
But it was bad enough here in the Tri-Cities area to cancel Student Ministry small groups (at least the Tuesday night variety... the Wednesday night groups are still on for tonight). But that doesn't happen very often. Yesterday's snow just came so fast and was so light that it blew everywhere.
The one bit of silver lining is that it was only about 2 degrees when I walked out the door this morning instead of the -14!!!
Crazy weather!!!
Jim
But it was bad enough here in the Tri-Cities area to cancel Student Ministry small groups (at least the Tuesday night variety... the Wednesday night groups are still on for tonight). But that doesn't happen very often. Yesterday's snow just came so fast and was so light that it blew everywhere.
The one bit of silver lining is that it was only about 2 degrees when I walked out the door this morning instead of the -14!!!
Crazy weather!!!
Jim
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Pick me up a Championship shirt...
Anyone going to Africa anytime soon??
According to THIS ABC News story, the T-shirts that were printed up for Sunday night's Super Bowl would-be-champs Chicago Bears are headed to Africa to be given away in small villages as part of a World Vision effort. Pretty cool that a Christian group like World Vision is a part of it.
It would still be kinda cool just to get a hold of one of those shirts...
It would have been cooler if the Bears would have won the game... Then I could have gone down the street to Wal-Mart and bought one for myself...
Jim
According to THIS ABC News story, the T-shirts that were printed up for Sunday night's Super Bowl would-be-champs Chicago Bears are headed to Africa to be given away in small villages as part of a World Vision effort. Pretty cool that a Christian group like World Vision is a part of it.
It would still be kinda cool just to get a hold of one of those shirts...
It would have been cooler if the Bears would have won the game... Then I could have gone down the street to Wal-Mart and bought one for myself...
Jim
Last 5 hits on my blog page
Here are the locales of the last 5 visitors to my blog page... one is especially cool...
-Knoxville, TN
-Grandville, MI
-Joliet, IL
-Aurora, IL
-Caldwell, KA (as some of you may know, my hometown is Caldwell, Ohio... so, it was pretty cool to see Caldwell listed as the location of a blog visitor...)
Jim
-Knoxville, TN
-Grandville, MI
-Joliet, IL
-Aurora, IL
-Caldwell, KA (as some of you may know, my hometown is Caldwell, Ohio... so, it was pretty cool to see Caldwell listed as the location of a blog visitor...)
Jim
Get a Mac - Vista Vs Mac - Security - New Mac Add
Here's the brand new Mac vs. PC commercial. It's awesome!! Go Mac.
GM Robot Super Bowl XLI Commercial
I saw this commercial during the Super Bowl on Sunday night. It almost made me want to cry. Definately the best of the mix on Sunday night.
Monday, February 05, 2007
3 Words...
Last night's Super Bowl can be explained in 3 words...
Rex...
Grossman...
Stinks...
And if you want to add a few more... Trade him and draft a quarterback.
In this humble blogger's opinion, the Bear's would have had a shot at winning last night had it not been for Rex's bumbling and fumbling... 2 interceptions... on stupid throws that shouldn't have been thrown and what was thrown was thrown poorly... several fumbles and dropped balls... you can't blame dropping the snap from the center on a fierce rush from the defense... it just hit his hands and bounced to the ground.
It was poor... very poor...
It would have been a better option to have put Griese in during the 4th Quarter, or heaven forbid... Kyle Orton. It was obvious to the casual fan that Rex didn't have it last night. But for some reason... Lovie left him in the game...
And the Bears went down. Defense can only do so much when you hand 14 points to the other team's offense in turnovers and when you've been on the field for most of the game because your offense can land a first day.
So... the draft is coming... let Rex go... pick up someone with some brains... and skills...
Jim
Rex...
Grossman...
Stinks...
And if you want to add a few more... Trade him and draft a quarterback.
In this humble blogger's opinion, the Bear's would have had a shot at winning last night had it not been for Rex's bumbling and fumbling... 2 interceptions... on stupid throws that shouldn't have been thrown and what was thrown was thrown poorly... several fumbles and dropped balls... you can't blame dropping the snap from the center on a fierce rush from the defense... it just hit his hands and bounced to the ground.
It was poor... very poor...
It would have been a better option to have put Griese in during the 4th Quarter, or heaven forbid... Kyle Orton. It was obvious to the casual fan that Rex didn't have it last night. But for some reason... Lovie left him in the game...
And the Bears went down. Defense can only do so much when you hand 14 points to the other team's offense in turnovers and when you've been on the field for most of the game because your offense can land a first day.
So... the draft is coming... let Rex go... pick up someone with some brains... and skills...
Jim
-14 below this morning...
It was cold this morning... But the bright side of things is that my car started. WhooHoo!!!
But officially this morning at the Clark household we had a morning low of -14.8 at about 4:35 am. COLD!!!!!
Jim
But officially this morning at the Clark household we had a morning low of -14.8 at about 4:35 am. COLD!!!!!
Jim
Sunday, February 04, 2007
-8 below zero!!!
Officially at the Clark-house last night's coldest temperature was -8 below zero. Cold!!!
But today's forecasted high is +2 (which seems like a heatwave) and tonight's low is -14. It was so cold this morning that my car wouldn't start. Oh!!! to have a garage...
Jim
But today's forecasted high is +2 (which seems like a heatwave) and tonight's low is -14. It was so cold this morning that my car wouldn't start. Oh!!! to have a garage...
Jim
Chestnut was a great place for skiing... but at 2 degrees?
Friday night's Ski Trip to Chestnut was pretty good. The skiing wasn't too bad... too many snowboarders carving it up at times.But a couple of things about that event in retrospect.
First, skiing by yourself is fine for about an hour. All the adults who attended refused to go out and ski. In fact, they didn't even get lift tickets. Which left me as the only adult from our group skiing, which meant that I skied alone. Which was cool initially, but when you've got no one to talk to and no one to push you to try new stuff, skiing alone gets stale pretty quick.
Second, it was about 2 or 3 degrees above zero all night, the wind was blowing and a light snow was falling. IT WAS COLD! But actually the best part of the night skiing-wise for me was from about 2:30 am until about 3:30 am. Many of the kids had frozen out and were inside, so the slopes were pretty clear. And the light snow was beginning to freshen up the slopes. But it was getting windy. But still... pretty darn cold.
Finally, a 3-hour bus ride at 4:00 am is hard on the neck. It was impossible for me to get comfortable enough to sleep. But that's part of it I guess.
All in all... it wasn't a bad trip. In fact, from what I saw of Chestnut, I liked it. I would love to go back and ski it during the day, with some friends and when it wasn't so cold.
Jim
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Shuffle Up and Deal
I pulled up my ITunes playlist... Hit shuffle and here are the first 5 songs that came up...
Magic Man by Heart off the "Essential Heart" album
Let It Fade by Jeremy Camp off the "Beyond Measure" album
I've Found a New Baby (Benny Goodman Version) by Big Band Sounds off the "Big Band Sounds - Swing Era of 1930-1936" album
A Pillow of Winds by Pink Floyd off the "Meddle" album
Rock And Roll Is Dead by Lenny Kravitz off the "Greatest Hits" album
Enjoy!!! All good songs!!!
Magic Man by Heart off the "Essential Heart" album
Let It Fade by Jeremy Camp off the "Beyond Measure" album
I've Found a New Baby (Benny Goodman Version) by Big Band Sounds off the "Big Band Sounds - Swing Era of 1930-1936" album
A Pillow of Winds by Pink Floyd off the "Meddle" album
Rock And Roll Is Dead by Lenny Kravitz off the "Greatest Hits" album
Enjoy!!! All good songs!!!
The Art Institute's "Lions" in Chicago get their helmets
Bears helmets finally fit the heads of two of Chicago's most well known residents-- the 3-ton lions sitting outside the Art Institute. On Tuesday, the first fitting didn't go so well.This is the first time since the Bears won the Super Bowl 21 years ago. Hopefully this will be a good sign since the last time the Lion's wore helmets, the White Socks won the World Series.
Click here for the Full Story.
IPhone Diet Update!
Today is the first day of February... and I'm proud to announce that I made it into the 280's by the end of January!!! I'm working my way to a new IPhone this June.
My goal was to be below 290 by the end of January and I actually hit yesterday at 288. That's down 12 pounds since January 1. I was hesitant to post because yesterday was Chinese buffet day with Chris and Steve... and you know Chinese buffets... So I waited until today.
This morning (after my normal morning walk), I was 289!!!
But I know that the first 11-12 are the easy ones... But I'm committed (to be talking on an IPhone) this summer!!!
Jim
My goal was to be below 290 by the end of January and I actually hit yesterday at 288. That's down 12 pounds since January 1. I was hesitant to post because yesterday was Chinese buffet day with Chris and Steve... and you know Chinese buffets... So I waited until today.
This morning (after my normal morning walk), I was 289!!!
But I know that the first 11-12 are the easy ones... But I'm committed (to be talking on an IPhone) this summer!!!
Jim
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