the BLOG spot
Posted 05.28.08 | 2:40pm
Hey I got a response from a loyal reader of my blog....A big howdy goes out to Clint Hale....HOWDY!
I am happy to say that Clint is currently living in Virginia but will be returning to "God's Country" of Texas! Ok, ok, ok, so he is my brother but at least I know someone reads it.
Well a lot has happened since last week in my post. One sad note is the loss of someone who always made me feel good, a lady who -- even when she wasn't feeling good -- could still make me smile and that is Barbara Muniz. It was a shock to all of us to find out that she passed from this life on Saturday and my heart and prayers are with Lawerence and their kids at this time. Thanks for sharing her with me guys!
In the midst of finding out about Barbara, Debbie the kids and I were in Midland looking for housing. As mentioned before we will be moving to Midland this summer and needed to get some things going along the lines of a place to live. We did find something and will be trying to get all the paperwork taken care of over the course of the next few weeks. With summer coming and me trying to handle still the majority of youth activities we wanted to get something done before summer started. I hope to be here throughout the summer to have one last summer with the youth here. Let's make this a great summer!
Ok random thoughts with HAHA:
Why is it that in areas where gas/oil are produced and refined that it always cost more there at the pumps?
Posted 05.21.08| 12:44pm
I guess you can see that I am not good at posting on blogs. I think the reason is that everyone who would read this already knows what is going on. As I look at my last post from a month ago and I wanted to see who all reads this and I got no response gives me a pretty good feeling that this is a waste of time. Maybe if I knew people would actually read this I would put more but alas...
Ok most everyone knows but I will be leaving Parkview this summer. July 20 will be my last Sunday and I will finish out that week with VBS. It has been a great 4 yrs but it is time to move on.
Not much going on really except that school is almost over, which means summer and camps! So if you want to know what camp is like...get an application and go with us this summer.
Well if anything really exciting happens I might post it....but who reads this anyway.
For my ammusment (or how ever you spell it...)
Random thoughts with myself:
Why am I having random thoughts....that is so random.
Posted 04.07.08 | 2:14pm
Hello my wonderful world of internet where anyone can read what I am putting on here. I want to try something....
I am in Sherman, TX (about 60 miles north of Dallas) and I want to see what is the farthest place and of course person who reads this. So if you read this and you live on the other side of the world....let me know I am just curious to see where in the world people are reading my ramblings.
Ok....my daughter just turned 12! My baby girl is almost a teen! I deal with teens...man am I in trouble....lol. Seriously tho, I just can't believe my little girl is growing up so fast and don't really realize it until your daughter and wife can share clothes. We took Preslie out to shop for her birthday and when she found a pair of shoes that fit, well mom tried them on too and well.....I guess you get it.
Now I do have a son and he is getting too big as well. He is in kid pitch finally, but man just seems like yesterday we were doing t-ball, he turns 10 in a few months. The great part is that I will have two teens at the same time, guess this will either make or break me in the youth ministry!
Well, I really need to get busy on doing curriculum, but I thot I would take a minute and just ramble some more!
Random thoughts with HAHA: So I guess Carmen San Diego was finally found....or did everyone just give up on looking for her?
Posted 04.04.08 | 10:37am
Have you ever just felt like rambling....good cuz I don't either. Just kidding. One of the things on my mind lately is why we always look to someone else to write curriculum. Also, why doesn't the Church of Christ have their own teen magazine. I know that there is Group, and Youth Ministry Resources, and other magazine's out there and I do get them and read them, but why can't someone do one that is based from the Church's of Christ.....I might just have to do it right!?
I am also the assistant coach of my sons baseball team. This year we, the coaches will dress out in full uniform as well. Which gets me thinking, why is that only the Baseball coaches dress out in uniform, while Football coaches don't, soccer (futbol) coaches don't, tennis coaches don't, etc, etc, etc.
Course it would have been funny to see someone like Bill Parcells or even Wade Phillips dress in a football uniform, but really thinking about it, would you have gotten Tom Landry or Vince Lambordi to wear anything other than a suit and tie...probably not.
ok so I am finished for now....but don't forget.....
Random thoughts with HAHA:
Does anyone really care how much a wood chuck can chuck (or whatever)?
Posted 03.31.08 | 12:34pm
Not much going on really....other than we got a new projector system in for our auditorium. It is so much better because we actually have a projector that is bright enough, plus we have a new screen...the old "screen" was really bulletin board paper. The intent originally was not to have the paper screen up there very long, but after nearly 2 years we have a real screen and everything!
We had LTC which was good. We went to a different site this year and there are some things I liked better so we will probably just stay there for at least another year. But there is nothing like spending a weekend with a 1000+ teens!
Ok....well we are just on cruise control right now. Nothing big in the works, just the plain old routine. We do have a devo coming up at the home of Laurie and Tevin....that will be cool! Movie nights and who knows what else....in fact we need to do our camp out thing with the guys....so I will try to get that lined out.
Random thoughts with HAHA: Who in the world ever discovered which mushroom you could eat and not?
Posted 03.04.08 | 11:28am
Ok I know that I haven't posted in over a month....but not really a whole lot going on other than normal stuff. We do have a movie night coming up this Saturday at 7pm. We did get a lot of snow last night, but it will only last till this afternoon. I will try to get some pics up of what it looked like around here. Also, I am going to post a blog from my brother. I have used it as my bulletin article the last few weeks, but you can read it all right here.
Random thoughts (first): If you made a promise based on it snowing in Texas....well time to do it!
OK FROM MY BROTHER:
"Yes, it is true. I will be taking 20 someodd young people to {a youth
rally} this weekend. There will be a few other adults around, but probably not
nearly enough. We get to drive 5 1/2 hours, get worn out and then drive back.
We leave early Friday morn and get back Sunday Eve.
fun, fun, fun
(I think I wrote that last year, too).
{A few days later in response to his weekend}
For anyone concerned, I survived.
You know, I have reached a point in my life where some things just seem silly to
me. I do not mean to make light of an experience that can be a blessing to
others, but so often, we allow things that are superficial and shallow to be the
hallmark of our religious experience.
I find that sad.
This weekend was a case in point. I saw an aging former Youth Minister
(granted, it has been a long time since he was a true youth minister, though he
obviously still has a heart for them) attempt to communicate what he considered
to be a deep message to thousands of young people. The fact is that most of
them were bored with it.
The young folks love to make the trip, but it seems to me that most of them like
it because of a few less than glorious reasons:
1. They got to miss a day of school.
2. They got to spend a weekend with ample amounts of free time in a tourist
trap environment.
3. They got to escape the clutches of their parents, for the most part (though
some of them had to deal with parents who were chaperones, like poor Becky).
4. They got to make a road trip.
This was demonstrated to me by the several members of our particular group who
asked if we "had to go" to the final worship assembly. When I answered in the
affirmative, the general reply was something akin to "oh man..." or "crud."
The more deeply I come to know Jesus (and I certainly have a long way to go in
that regard), the more many of the contemporary praise songs seem to be fluffy
and lacking substance. They seem more concerned with having a catchy phrase or
melody. Some simply try to see how loudly they can get folks to scream that
"Satan was defeated!" or some such thought. Many of them lack basic doctrinal
value. (not that many of the old hymns don't have the same problem - I recently
heard an elderly song leader introduce a song with the following line: "this
song doesn't really have any theological value, but it is an old favorite...")
My answer is, "why sing them at all?" Why not do things that do have
theological value? Why not spend time helping young people learn how to serve,
rather than pandering to them?
I am encouraged when I see youth groups go to storm ravaged areas and rebuild
homes and lives. I am encouraged when young people take the time to help the
poor and destitute. I am much less impressed and encouraged when I see them
being simply entertained. In my opinion, that was what this last weekend was.
Fortunately, most of the other activities that we do with the youth here are a
little more helpful. I enjoy most all of them. But the trip to {the Rally} is
a waste of time and resources, in my opinion.
I thank God that it is over. For this year, anyway.
I am about to make a generalization and I understand the danger of doing so. It
is tricky, at best, to paint with a broad brush. But I have noticed that at
most of our activities and gatherings that when they first begin, they have a
definite purpose and focus. They are really trying to accomplish something.
There has been a need that has been recognized and is being addressed. It may
not be addressed fully or even adequately, but at least the intention is there.
However, after any of our gatherings reach about their fifth anniversary, I see
a definite drop off in utility. They begin to exist because the exist, not to
accomplish anything.
We have lectureships, youth gatherings, workshops, etc simply for the sake of
having them. I have started to cringe when I see anything that says "the
annual...." especially when it says something like the "34th annual..." or
something like that. At such gatherings, we tend to hear the same things we
heard at the 33rd, 32nd, 31st....and nothing has changed. To me, that
represents the need to do something else. Obviously, this isn't working. I
remember Richard Rogers quoting someone else's proverb that the definition of
insanity was doing the same old thing, expecting different results.
Unfortunately, it seems to be human nature to fall into that trap.
I remember a few years back when the annual Jubilee gathering in Nashville
decided to cease its activities. Many rejoiced at that, because they saw it as
a defeat of the "liberals." I simply think it was wise men who realized that it
no longer served a valuable purpose and decided to focus elsewhere. (This is
the point where I could launch into my opinion about "liberal" and
"conservative" and how Churches of Christ don't even know what those words mean,
for the most part. But I won't.)
{Response to a question presented to Clint about what to do about things that are a waste}
You know, all of us do some things for the wrong reasons. Sometimes we do
right things for wrong reasons and sometimes we do wrong things for the right
reasons. In the end, it always ends up with us somewhere we shouldn't be, in a
spiritual - and sometimes physical - sense.
As to your question about what can you (or anyone) else do when they start doing
things for wrong reasons is just to realize it is human nature to do that. We
call it the "fallen" nature. We have a propensity to sin, to err and to
generally get off of the right road. Sometimes our nature makes us do overt
sins, while sometimes it simply causes us to do something else that keeps us
from doing something good. While we could argue that such a thing is sin, as
well (since James said that the one who knows a good thing to do and doesn't do
it sins), I want to differentiate between going out and intentionally sinning
or doing something that isn't inherently bad, but simply keeps us from doing a
good thing (in other words, it is a time waster).
All of that to say, that you are absolutely going to do some of those time
waster things in your life. Probably on a fairly regular basis. I catch myself
all the time. To relate this to my earlier post, my big problem wasn't that we
went and wasted a weekend rather than doing something productive. It was that
10,000 people all gathered together to do it intentionally, though some of them
have fooled themselves into thinking it was useful. It seems that the church
has forgotten how to discern between a good thing and a time waster. That sorta
scares me.
But on an individual level, as soon as you realize that you are in such a
setting, I would say to leave it as soon as possible. It might not be possible
to do it immediately, but as soon as you can, go do something else.
Try to use your times of ministry on service oriented activities. We have a man
in our congregation (retired from working in the prison system in Virginia) who
goes to major disasters to help with relief work. He is gone more than half the
year doing this. I think he is probably the most "Christian" man in our church
(including me). He doesn't talk about doing good. He doesn't sit around
pontificating and elaborating theological points that we have all discussed ad
naseum, no - he goes out and actually helps folks. He cleans up debris. He
rebuilds houses. He delivers temporary housing. He roofs. He does whatever
needs doing to help those in trouble. I seem to remember Jesus saying something
about bringing water to the thirsty, etc as being like doing it for him. This
guy does that. He doesn't need to go to some fancy shmancy hi-energy rah-rah
meeting to get him excited about God. He sees God every day.
That is what I want. I don't suppose it means we all have to go to disaster
torn areas, though that is certainly a good thing. But we must learn to be more
service oriented, rather than talking oriented. That would make all the
difference.
Posted 01.28.08 | 11:15am
all righty then....Here it is the end of January and I am now just getting back to the blog. What can I say I am not very good at keeping this up. I went to Lubbock the past week and Jesse Muniz went with me and I saw him checking to see if I had posted anything...well now I have so here you go Jesse!
But I did mention to him that if I knew that people actually looked at this I would probably do more but other than about 2 people, I am not sure. So if you do read this then shoot me an email to say "I read your Upper Room blog!"
I hope to get a few more things done on here a little bit better, but that means that Bradley has to show me. I want to use this for more than just me writing a blog ever now and then. I want each of you to be able to come here and get the latest calendar, camp apps. etc. So stay tuned and we will see what happens.
Ok...so the Valentine Banquet is only about 2 weeks away. So there is a lot of stuff to do for that. Thanks to Abigail for helping out in getting things planned. There is also plans in the making for A girls day here at Parkview. THere are a lot of neat ideas that we are trying to make happen so stay tuned.
Random thots with HAHA:
If dogs bark, cats meow and cows moo, what do ardvarks do?
Posted 01.09.08 | 10:11am
Sorry it has been a while since my last post, but when the holidays roll around....I seem to disappear! But it was fun. Since my last post Christmas has come and gone....the New Year has too and now 2008 is here and now it is time to get started on this years "stuff."
There is not a whole lot right now going on or coming up other than on Jan 20 at 5 we will meet at Park Ave. in Denison for our Area-youth night. So be ready for that.
Also on Feb. 9, we will have our 4th annual Valentines party. Plans are already beginning for that. So mark your calendars.
Maybe I will have something else to add later....but for now that is all
Random thoughts with HAHA:
Ah man I already messed up my one new years resolution....not to make any!
Posted 12.17.07 | 11:24am
Well I had a different weekend....I took some vacation time and just chilled....literally....Saturday the family and I spent a few "cool" hours at Six Flags and then my son and I got a great gift from mommy/wife -- tickets too see Dallas and Iggles play. Now we know that a lot of people are blaming Jessica Simpson, Tony's friend that is a girl, for his poor performance and the Cowboys loss, but being the truthful man that I am I will take the blame. Yes it was my fault, the reason being is that I wore my "Romo" jersey on game day. Now it wouldn't be logical that this would happen, but I have only wore my #9 jersey on one other game day....it was the loss to New Cheatland. Now that I think about it I have not worn any cowboy clothing on any game day except for those two days and now we have two losses. OH well....Nevertheless, I was able to take my boy to a game at Texas Stadium and that is what made the day great. I even asked him what he liked best since he has now been to a Pro football game and Pro Baseball (Rangers) and he said Football. I also asked which sport he liked playing more and he said Football, so there you have it the wisdom of my 9yr old son....Football -- Americas Sport!
Holiday in the park is now my favorite time to go to Six Flags. Yep, right when you freeze your tail off, but even though all the rides were not open, The TITAN was and man, was it great. The best part about it....my son...first time on it and he loved it! Shows were good, the rides were great and the Hot Choc, was awesome. No sweaty bodies and the stink that comes with 1000's of people there, but everyone bundled up and having fun! Needless to say, I had a great weekend just playing with my family!
Ok...thanks to Jeff Tesney and Jim McDermott for making sure the boys were ready for the Sunday evening service. Also a great big THANK YOU to JESSE MUNIZ for filling in for Bible Class! Thanks guys it is great to know that there are men I can turn to to help out when needed.
Christmas parties coming up so be ready for those and let's have a great end to "07
Random Thoughts with HAHA:
Is the table holding the paper up or is the paper keeping the table on the floor?
Posted 12.12.07 | 10:21am
The retreat was great. It was a wonderful weekend looking at Elijah and Elisha and a few lessons we can learn from them. I want to thank David, Alyssa, Amanda, Tevin, Jacob and Abigail for going and also to Jesse for taking time to go as a sponsor. I hope it was an uplifting time spent with others from Sherman and Denison. One of the highlights for me was that I played a little football....was I sore! looking forward to next year.
Christmas parities are coming up and so everyone needs to make sure they remember the date, times and places. The high school/jr. high will have their's on Dec. 22 from 6-9pm at the home of Brenda and Lynn Low. I will drive the van if you need a ride. Also we will have a gift exchange so bring a gift and try to keep it $10 and less.
The 1st-6th grade party will be the 23rd here at the ctc at 3pm. Also bring a gift for gift exchange.
I am looking to have a New Year's Party so be sure and pay attention. I will have more details later.
Random thoughts with HAHA:
Why aren't any sports teams named the Guinea Pigs?
Posted 12.04,07 | 2:10pm
Ok, so here we are in the last few weeks of 2007 and it still hasn't sunk in that Christmas and the New Year are upon us. I just can't seem to get in the holiday spirit. Not sure what is going on. o well...
So I am sitting here trying to get stuff ready for a retreat, bible class, etc. and nothing is really hitting me. I wish I always had good ideas for things like this, but alas I don't. Probably not the only one tho. Ok...so how about those Cowboys. Go rangers....at least trade for someone. Sorry Mavericks fans....i am still a spurs fan, but honestly I don't watch much until the playoffs.
So not much going on, except for a retreat this coming weekend for our High School students so I might actually try to get something together for it!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
I haven't heard from EF Hutton, his he still trying to talk? Or are people not listening?
Posted 11.27.07 | 1:29pm
Hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Mine was good as Deb, the kids and i went to Uvalde to see family. It is a great time to go and see everyone and get caught up on what has been going on since the last time we saw each other. For me it had been awhile since I had gone to everyone. Oh well, now that is over, it is time to get ready for Christmas.
For some odd reason my mind has not come to the realization that it is almost Christmas time as well as New Year. I think because of just constantly going and not having time to sit and relax a little, things have not adjusted itself in my mind of what time of year it is. I guess I am just so far behind I think I am ahead!
Jr./Sr. High Christmas party is on Dec. 22 at Brenda and Lynn Low's. We will do the gift exchange so be looking for something to exchange and keep it under $10 if at possible. The younger kids, grades 1-6 will have their party on Dec. 23 at 3pm in the CTC upstairs. They to need to bring a gift to exchange.
I guess the biggest news right now is that we have a small rat problem here at the building, but slowly we are getting things taken care of. But there is nothing like having a rat run across the floor during Bible Class!
Random Thots with HAHA:
Why is it that we sing a song about Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, but you never see him in any of the Christmas movies that come out?
Posted 11.13.07|1:43pm
Sorry I haven't put anything new in a few weeks. Main excuse...I got a new computer and didn't have all the programs...like the one so that I can update the blog and stuff. But thanks to Bradley that is all taken care of.
We had a great Retreat for our younger kids, but now it is time to get ready for our High School Retreat on Dec. 7-9. Cost is $45 per student and we will leave around 5pm, stop for supper and get to the camp around 8pm. IT looks to be a great weekend as we join youth from Western Heights, Park Ave., and Sanger. Sign up to go!
The Fall Festival was great. We had right at 200 people that came and spent time playing games and having a great time. This was a great way to open our doors to the community. Thanks to all who chipped in and Helped. Also a big thank you to Melissa ISD for allowing us to borrow some of their games. Next year looks wonderful as well!
As things shape up, just remember that '07 is almost history and the New Year is upon us. Finish strong and keep focused on Christ!
Ok....Random Thoughts with HaHa:
At least I have something in common with the end of the year approaching....my hair...they both are almost gone!
Posted 10.18.07 | 10:29am
WOW! Another post so soon...what has gotten in to me? O, well, we will see what happens in a week, right? Ok, so we have our annual Middle School/Jr. High Retreat this weekend at Pettijohn Springs, so what am I suppose to do? Just kidding, but as usual we have only a few going, may more next time.
Saturday is our Fall Festival and I tell you we have a lot of stuff to do for that also. I pray that a lot of people show up and this is something that will be a spring board for introducing the church to the community again!
Not a lot happening, just stalling for time so that I can say I got something done, other than retreat stuff, but I am almost done with that!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
Do you literally "hit the sack" when you go to bed at night?
POSTED 10.10.07 | 11:32am
Ok, ok, ok....so I don't update except once a year! LOL! Sorry, seems like it hasn't been that long, but the date never lies. In my last post as you can tell summer hadn't begun, now it is almost time for Thanksgiving. I don't really count Halloween a holiday, first it just doesn't appeal to me anymore, to much bloody stuff, and plus kids don't get out of school for it.
We made it through the summer and now we are into fall. WE do host a fall festival here at Parkview, but I look at it more like a opportunity to reach out to our community to show that the Church is a great and friendly place. So with that we will have our FALL FESTIVAL on Oct. 27 from 5-9pm. We will have a lot of games, food, fun and of course a giant inflatable slide! So everyone is invited.
On Oct. 20-21 we are going to have our fall Middle/Jr. High Retreat at Pettijohn Springs. Cost is $20. So sign-up if you would like to go and give your "funds" to me so that I can keep up with who has paid.
I want everyone to know that I have a lot of ideas brewing so be on the watch out for a massive explosion of New youth activities here at Parkview! Let us all get together and encourage one another daily!
Ok...I know you missed them so here is everyone's favorite segment:
Random Thoughts with Jason:
Did you realize that with the same foot motion you can make a car go or stop!
Posted 05.10.07 | 10:05am
Wow it has been a while since my last post..sorry! I was going to do a couple in the past but our computer at home for some reason decided to uninstall the right program to do it. Oh well!
Ok, everything seems to be going great, summer is almost here which means it gets really busy for me. This summer I have a lot more stuff going on. I start the summer by going to Virginia and speaking to a church out there about the difference in youth groups from 20 yrs ago till now. It is funny to go back and look at what other people did with youth 20-30yrs ago and compare it to now. There are some things that I would not do as times have changed and how we approach things. But anyways, "nuff" about that.
Happy mothers day to all you mom's out there this coming Sunday!
Check the calendar or give me a shout if you have any questions!
o and Ranger tickets are available if you want to go....$23 for everything (ticket and meal) so sign up and if you are going to "Nawlins" need to sign up for that too!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
How many times have you seen a tree get struck by lighting and wanted to make the "wonder boy" bat?
Posted 04.13.07 | 1:25pm
LTC was great! We had a great time and everyone did so well. I am looking forward to next year, and some changes might be coming in how we do certain events that will help in scheduling out when practices are and stuff.
Sunday night activities have gotten started on a great note and I want to encourage you to continue to come and be involved. This Sunday we will be meeting after evening services and playing games like big ball volleyball. So come and bring your friends!
Camp is right around the corner so get your applications in!
Random thoughts
with HaHa:
Should the church mouse be counted in the attendance each week?
Posted 04.04.07 | 1:39pm
Happy birthday to my little girl, Preslie tomorrow! She is turning 11 and that really makes this daddy feel old, but what a wonderful daughter God blessed me with (my son too of course!). You realize how old your kids are getting when they move from asking for toys to electronic stuff....I asked Preslie the other day what she wanted and said "ipod." Oh well...
LTC is this weekend and I think everyone is ready to go. Still a few loose ends to tie up but nothing out of the ordinary. Thanks again to all those who have helped get things ready, especially getting all the food so the kids can have something to snack on and not have to buy all their meals out. I pray that this is a wonderful experience for all those going. And of course to our Sr. TIa who will be going for the last time as a student...from now on she will have to be a sponsor! Thanks again to all.
Easter Egg hunt is this Sunday at 1:30, we are ok on plastic eggs, but need some hard time candy (stuff that won't melt) to fill them with.
Each Sunday night we will be getting together to hang out, grow closer to each other and God and have fun. The first Sunday night of the month we will meet in THe Upper Room for Prayer night. THis will be an opportunity for us to pray for each other, other people and the Church. On the Second Sunday evening we will have our Sweet Sunday in which we will go somewhere and hand out flyers/postcards to invite people in the community to come and worship with us. Then we will go to Braum's or Sonic for something sweet! The third Sunday nite we will have games in the CTC, such as volleyball, marshmellow baseball, etc. And the Last Sunday night is our regular DEVO.
Hope to see you at each of the events!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
Why can't the bugs ever figure out that when the door is closed they are to stay
out!
Posted 03.29.07 | 10:21am
LTC is only a week away. Can't believe it has already been a year. Time does seem to speed up when you are older. Our numbers are down I think from last year on the number of people going this year, but that is ok....we have some new ones who will going for the first time. Hats off to the sponsors and all those who have signed up to donated food, money and prayers. Thank you goes out to our Ladies Bible Class for fixing lunch for us before we leave next Friday.
I still need a few pictures of our 5th-12th graders, this is a project I am doing with the Ladies Bible Class. The Ladies will be taking individual pictures of the kids and for a set amount of time be praying for that teen. This also allows our older members to put a name with a face. If you haven't had your picture taken I need it ASAP!
Camp apps need to be sent in ASAP, many places have already been taken as others have sent their apps in. So make sure and get your Camp stuff done and in the mail. If I need to do please let me know.
We will be doing some exciting things after LTC, so get ready!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
does a coffee cup secretly complain that it is getting burned?
Posted 03.21.07 |10:45am
Back from Spring Break and trying to get caught up on stuff...seems like there is never a break...oh well. Had a great trip to see my in-laws in Uvalde. Spent a few days there just relaxing and eating. I was able to see one of my best friends and his family. That was cool.
Also went back to Big Spring and saw one of my past youth group girl get married. Congrats to Heather and Eric on your marriage and may you both have a great life together! It was good to see our friends from Big Spring and get caught up with what has been happening there. Of course it was fun for my daughter Preslie as she was asked to be in the wedding.
Well, not much going on...still don't feel real good, I can't seem to shake this head cold.
Random thoughts
with HAHA:
If you are standing up and the world is spinning thousands of miles an hour how
come your hair is not always blowing and your cheeks are flapping?
Posted 03.08.07 | 8:28pm
Sad day at the Hale household...we have had a dog named Cookie for 13 yrs but today we had to take her and have her put down. It was hard to make the decision but she was getting worse and was bleeding bad and not eating, which then caused her not to be able to take her meds. So after a few days of talking we decided it was time. The kids are ok...but it is the only pet they have had so it will be tough for them...
OK....good news...my office is COMPLETE!!!!!!!! Man talking about taking forever and that extra day....phewww...but it is done and people can actually come in and not be attacked by stuff. Thanks go to my wife and daughter, Bradley and Pam for picking out the color of paint. Hopefully other projects won't take that long.
I didn't do the funeral after all...I felt bad on Monday and by Tuesday morning I was bad. I couldn't hardly stand up or think right so Welton Stoker stepped in for me. Thanks for the help.
Spring Break coming up....be safe and have fun relaxing. If you go anywhere drive safely....and remember i like Elvis, The Cowboys, Rangers, Coffe and Coke....just in case you want to buy me something...LOL!
Random Thoughts with HAHA:
When a bug is crawling on a paper does it think the end of the world is at the edge?
Posted 03.05.07 | 12:29pm
My office is never complete...UGH! Thanks to my wife and daughter for helping with the little stuff so maybe I can get it totally done today!
Talking about being ready for all things....I happened to be at the office last week and a older member of the church came in looking for Welton, in hopes that He would be able to do funeral on Tuesday (6th), but since Welton couldn't be found, They asked me to do it. So this is great....don't know what the name, is, not sure where the service will be or anything...Fun! But I will do it...part of being ready in all seasons.
Preached yesterday am and it went pretty good. I hope and pray that Parkview can continue to be blessed by God and move forward to be a light in the community.
A couple of things....not sure about Spring Break if we will do something...but we might. The weekend of 17-18 I wil be out of town for a wedding. Many things going on with LTC, Bible Classes, etc. hope you can attend everything!
Prayers are with those who are recovering the storms that hit last week. For those who lost a family, friend....turn to God!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
If stores package and sale Bottled Drinking Water....what about None Drinking Water?
Posted 02.21.07 | 6:56am
I think I have almost finished painting my office! Only three weeks later...oh well, I guess better long time then never. I think the theme of my office will be "HE*Brews Coffee Room." Do you get it. Hebrews from the book in the Bible Hebrews and of course the coffee part is the color and border I have placed in it. Hopefully here before long I can take a picture to show everyone. There are still a few ideas that I want to do, but will have to see.
The guys did another great job Sunday evening. For all of those that took part in reading scripture, song leading, prayers and the short devo talks...you all did an awesome job. Just remember every third Sunday is yours to do! Thanks to all the parents who encourage the kids and the members for showing support Sunday nights the attendance has been great!
Camp applications are in for Sr. Camp to Cisco. The dates are June 17-23. You can get an app from me. I haven't got any for the Jr Camp (grades 3-6) yet but will shortly. The dates for Jr. Camp are June 24-28.
Devo this weekend (Sunday night) at the Stokers. Make plans to attend!
Random thoughts with Jason:
Isn't it weird how the wall is sticky for a fly but not for humans!
Posted 02.12.07 | 2:31pm
Hope everyone had a great weekend. It was great for me! Of course it was very busy, teach bible class, lead singing (am) LTC practices, and preached Sunday pm. So the day went pretty quickly. Of course Monday roles around and it seems as if everything just stops...no one comes in hardly.
So i am very happy about the mission Sunday contribution a little over a week ago. We were looking to have $8800 contributed, but to I believe everyones surprize....we had over $10,000 given. That is awesome. Of course that means that our trip to New Orleans is on and I am looking forward to another week of helping out in the Crescent City. If you would like more info give me a hollar. Of course we plan on leaving July 29 and returning Aug. 4. It is an awesome time.
There is a lot coming up so make sure you check with me with what is happening.
Office still not done...but will be soon. Come by for a cup of coffee and conversation.
Valentine Banquet was a hit. Abigail did an awesome job, along with Preslie (my daughter) and Jesse on getting the decorations done. Also Abby did great on the food. Thanks to Bradley and his games, the attendees realy had a blast. Can't wait till next year!
Random thoughts with Jason:
As I was sitting in my chair I thought to myself...wow I am glad I am holding down this chair!
Have a great week, day, hour, minute, second....
Posted 02.06.07 | 12:20pm
Bummer, Football is over. I know most people don't care, but it is one of the few things I do watch on TV. I have picked up watching CSI and House, but other than that don't really care what is on. What ever happened to The Hulk, Dukes of Hazzard, or the A-Team. Oh well, I guess those were the "good ol' days!"
Valentine Banquet this Friday at 6pm...hope that goes good. Elvis will not be there this year. Hopefully everyone will enjoy it.
Also on the 16th we will show "Facing the Giants" and offer 25cent cokes, popcorn and maybe a few other things. So put that on your calendar.
The office is slowly coming together. I did finish getting the walls ready to paint and stuff. You are probably wondering why it is taking so long...well, up until about 2yrs ago nothing had been done to the CTC (Christian Training Center aka Family Life Center/Multipurpose building) since it's completion in 1978. It was two yrs ago we did the entrance and hallways and of course the upstairs area (hence the Upper Room was born) but nothing had been done the offices. Needless to say I had to fix about 3 holes that had appeared over the last 29yrs and then because of the types of wall board, I needed to do a lot of prep work so that it could be painted. So now is the time to pick paint and get it done. Then a few of us will probably do some work on Glenda's (secretary) office. A little at a time and we might actually get it looking half way decent.
Random Thoughts with Jason:
I looked up at the ceiling and thought "who put the cottage cheese up there!"
Anyways....have a great week and keep pressing on to the prize!
Posted 01.29.07 | 1:48pm
Monday, Monday! That's all I got to say about that.
Sunday was good. Service went well. Class was ok...not many of the college age are coming, but hopefully that will change. Sunday night we did all new songs. It went pretty good. Devo was a little skimpy. One of the comments that our youth had was having more time together to do stuff, but the last few weekends have been skimpy on attendance. Where is everyone?
Togetherness, Togetherness, Togetherness....thank about it!
Random thoughts with Jason...
I looked at the front of my car and thought out loud...man the bugs really like my car!
Posted 01.21.07 | 10:28am
Wow! three posts in this short amount of time...I guess I am making up for all those months I didn't!
Ok...I think i officially feel old now. It its each parent at one time or another and it did me last night. Preslie went to the movie last night...of course this is not the first time she has gone without daddy or mommy, but as i was waiting on her to come out, I stood outside the door with all the teens who were waiting on their parents to pick em up. That is when it hit me...when your kids are old enough to go the movies by themselves with friends, then old has hit. I guess after 34 years it finally catches up with you. But you know what, I am still a "toys r us" kid at heart! More games more toys...OH BOY!
Speaking of 34 years old...do you know if I would have been able to buy a house when i was born then it would have been paid off now for 4 years! Scary!
Random thoughts with HAHA:
As I stare at the wall...does the paint love the wall or the wall the paint!
How about them ardvarks!
Posted 01.26.07 | 6:45pm
Does it seem like as you get older Friday nights are more boring? I remember when i was in high school we couldn't wait till Friday cause there was always something going on. I guess the difference is that where I went to high school it took almost an hour to get to the nearest town to eat, watch a movie, etc. When i met Deb (my wife) she lived in Uvalde and i lived in Camp Wood and they were 40 miles apart, so every Friday I would head to Uvalde to see her. Oh well...
Have you ever just talked to yourself about crazy things? Yeah me either....
Ok...random thoughts with jason:
I saw a tree limb in the middle of the yard and thought to myself...is the tree mad at the limb or did the limb just grow there?
How about them Cowboys!
posted 01.23.07 | 2:34pm
ok, ok,ok, so I haven't put anything in the blog for a while! Actually the one excuse I have is that I had to reformat the computer and forgot to reinstall the necessary software so that I could change stuff. But I have....
So what has been happening here at Parkview, well a lot actually, the best part here lately was the young men leading worship service this past Sunday night. It has been a few years since that has happened and it was great to see the guys get up and do a great job. Keep up the good work.
I guess I will just put random thoughts here and see what happens...
I am going to redo my office. First off it is a place that everything gets thrown. But also the walls need to be painted and the carpet is terrible, now I might not get new carpet, but at least I can do something about the walls and stuff. If anyone wants to help just let me know!
If you want to leave me a message go to my email: jdhale (AT) parkviewchurchofchrist (dot) org
posted 11.9.06 | 4:00pm
I hope that your day has gotten off to a great start and
it continues the whole week. I want to encourage each of you to continue to
stretch yourself in relation to your growth with Christ. Over the next few weeks
we have many opportunities for you to grow physically and spiritually. I want to
encourage each of you to start reaching out and inviting neighbors, friends,
family, etc. to come and be a part of our youth group here at Parkview. Make
sure you pick up a Nov/Dec calendar in the foyer as well as a New
Upper Room Youth Directory. Thanks to Alyssa and Amanda for helping put them
together.
This Sunday night is an Area-Wide Youth Fellowship at Western Heights.
All those who are wanting to go can meet here at the building at 5pm and we will
go together in the van. It begins at 5:30 and concludes around 7:30. They will
provide a meal for us. This is to take place of SNITL, and we will meet at
different locations each time. We will plan on hosting the Area-Wide Youth
Fellowship in February. So be watching for info in the near future.
High School retreat is Dec. 8-10, cost is $40. We will leave around
5:45pm on Friday and return around 3pm on Sunday. The theme is "Loving the
Unlovely." Groups from Lake Shore Drive (Waco), Lampasas, Western Heights, Park
Ave, will be joining us for this great weekend.
The next devo is Nov. 19th at the Tennial’s house!
Keep up the battle for Christ!
Love ya, Jason
posted 11.1.06 | 5:33pm
So that I don't throw too many events/dates at you to keep
up with, there is a youth calendar in the foyer. Make sure you get one so
that you can remember what, when, how and where everything is happening.
Movie Night is this Saturday evening. (Nov. 4)
Dec. 8-10 is the High School Retreat and the cost
is $40. There should not be any problems with football/band unless teams make it
to the State Championship.
Nov. 11 we will leave at 8am for the Bokchito, OK Youth Rally. It is from
9am till 2pm with lunch being provided. We will return around 3pm.
Next Youth Devo will be November 19th, at the Tennial's.
posted 8.16.06 | 10:23am
"In one of the houses, we were cleaning out the attic. It reminded me so much of my own attic and go m to thinking, what if someone had to clean out my house, that would be a lot of work. Sometimes we become packrats and don't even think of what could happen. I seen how poor the people were down there and how much work still needs to be done. Then I came home and here we are adding on roads, rebuilding and building new businesses and stores. I can't help, but think we are being selfish, we don't need new stores or bigger roads. We should instead send the money to them to help them. It has helped be to appreciate what I do have and think, in a blink of an eye, all I have could be gone."
Tiffany Low
posted 8.4.06 | 10:40am
Below are some letters I have received from those that went on the mission trip. Each person was asked to give their thoughts before we left and after returning.
"Wow, and I mean WOW! That whole trip changed my life. I had no idea that it was going to be this bad! At first, I thought all we had had to do was scoop up muck, and take stuff out. I also thought that the houses were only going to be damaged a little. But no, it was a lot worse! Trucks were under houses and homes were moved of it's foundation. We also almost had to tear down the whole house. I also thought it was flooded half of the city. But it flooded the whole city! I learn and experienced a lot of bad stuff. I'll pray for them everyday!"
Josh Tennial
*************************************************************************************
"Before Leaving for NOLA"
"I was scared. I didn't know what to expect. Truthfully I really didn't want to go. I truly didn't believe I would be able to do the back breaking work that was needed. Yet deep down I really wanted to go because I knew it would be a great experience and even more I knew that the residence of the area could really use my help however little it would be. But either way you look at it I didn't really have a choice in the matter of going or not."
"After returning from NOLA"
"The work was really hard but it was nothing like they made it sound. I had the best time. This past week was one of the best experiences I have ever experienced! I truly wish that more people would have gone. There is still so much left to do down there and not a whole lot of time left to do it in. I know that I will never ever forget this past week. And I thank God for every minute of it, even the awful pain I experienced in my back all week."
Tia Tesney
*********************************************************************************************
"God's Presence"
"I remember watching MSNBC about a year ago, seeing the sadness and displacement, hearing the stories and tears, and praying for God's presence in the hurricane hit areas. Three months later, I heard nothing regarding the hurricane on television, so I came to the conclusion that the government stepped in and got to work rebuilding homes and lives. Not quite sure that's what I saw in New Orleans..."
"Upon arrival in New Orleans, I was literally in shock. Never in my life have I witnessed such destruction brought on by natural forces. But amongst all the devastation, God's presence was seen! Every N.O. person who passed us working made a point to say Thank You. They, as a city, need help and appreciate anyone who can deliver it. The amount of workers present to help gut homes ranged from 150 - 200 a week. It was so encouraging to see Christians coming together from around the nation, putting petty differences aside, to aide in the rescue and relief of New Orleans and the surrounding towns."
"Whether one believes Hurricane Katrina was shear coincidence, "Karma," Satan's work, God's testing or His wrath, now is the time for His children to shine like stars in this world. Parkview and Grand were given the opportunity to shine, and I pray that we displayed God's love in our work and that it was done for the glory of His name."
Bradley Brooks
*************************************************************************************************
"Thoughts on New Orleans"
"My first thoughts on going to New Orleans was great! We are going to really help someone in need. I thought there were some disadvantaged people who didn't have the funds to get back up and running and that we could give them a little help. Our kids would learn about helping others and appreciation of what they had."
"Upon going down there and seeing the utter devastation, I realized that it wasn't just the kids getting a lesson here. I realized that it wasn't just the poor, but also the middle class and everyone! This whole town was turned upside down and they are still struggling. To go through neighborhood after neighborhood of deserted homes was enlightening. As the song says, 'that could have been me!' I look at my family and home with appreciation to God for my blessings. I have my very comfortable home, good schools for my sons and a job for my husband. I have all of my cherished possessions and I have never had to wonder where my children are or if they were even alive. I'm not struggling with mortgages, insurance and fines on a home I'm not living in. New Orleans has taught ME to truly appreciate what I have and how the LORD has and continues to bless me. Now I need to use my blessings to serve HIM."
Pam Tennial
posted 08.02.06 | 2:20pm
The Mission trip to New Orleans was awesome. I want to thank all those who went. We had a great team and we accomplished a lot for many people. I will be presenting the information and a video on Sunday night August 13 for evening services. Also too all those who donated funds and more importantly prayers we thank you. No one was injured, other than a few cuts, scrapes and rashes and I think everyone had an uplifting time.
Now that school is only a few weeks away I want to encourage our kids to remember the Lord in all that you do. Satan will continue to try to bring you down but you must remain strong and dedicated to God and He will provide a way of escape for you. Be patient and take your struggles to God.
Before long we will post some items from the mission trip so stay tuned!
posted 7.5.06 | 10:46am
Well summer is almost over and school is only about a month away! Camp was great and I had a good time. It is always fun to get back to camp and catch up with what everyone is doing and the best is meeting new friends. I will say that team 4 might had had a "bad day" but we didn't care because we had fun!
Ok...VBS is only two weeks away and I am excited about this year. Bradley and Tyler have done an awesome job on getting stuff going. Also if you haven't seen our commercial for VBS you can on channel 10. Thanks go to Darwin Tennial for getting this started.
July 23-29 we will be taken a mission trip to aid in the rebuilding of New Orleans. There will be a meeting in the near future for all those who have signed up as we will cover some important items.
Continue to have a great summer and keep your focus on God!