Goodbye 2013!

Yes, 2013 been one roller-coaster of a year for me! There were some ups and downs. However, I like to look at the ups more than anything.

What are my new year's resolutions? To be frank... I have none. I've tried in years past, and it just doesn't work out. This following year, I plan to live life the best I can and enjoy it.

Going in to 2014, there are a few things I could be depressed about. One is the fact that we are down to one vehicle. Two, I lost several months of pictures and home videos that I will never be able to recover. Third, I gained more weight this year instead of losing it!!!

Instead, I'm looking forward to the highlights! I get to go on a cruise in a few weeks, and will finally get to visit the beach and the ocean for the first time. In February, I get to take part in one of my favorite group's reunion here in town... GOLD CITY! Lydia will be graduating and getting an awesome job in early spring. And that's just the beginning months...! 

I don't know what all 2014 will hold, but I'm looking forward to it. And hey... perhaps I'll blog more! ;)

~Matt

PS   HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thankful

First off, I want to wish everyone who reads this blog a "Happy Thanksgiving"!

Yesterday, I posted a fun list of things I'm thankful for, and I want to continue that thought with a longer, more meaningful post. I'm not sure who all reads my blog, but I'm very thankful for those who support my place of employment, KWFC Radio (http://kwfc.org)! With out them, I'd be somewhere else trying to support my family.

Working for the radio station over the past few years has been a great blessing. Besides the fact I'm working with some neat guys (and a gal) and being surrounded by fantastic Southern Gospel Music every day... I really love my job. Seeing and hearing how our listeners are blessed by the music, and how our programming has had a changing affect on their lives is awesome. It truly is a God ministry. 

I enjoy hearing that what I do has true impact. I don't of any other job that I can use my talent for that could allow me have such a great neat opportunity. 

Of course, KWFC is a listener supported radio station. People give so that we remain on the air, broadcasting the Gospel to the Ozarks! Without their financial gifts, we wouldn't survive. Thanks to them, I'm able to support my family in what I do. It's a humbling thought, and I'm very grateful to those who believe in what we do.

My prayer is that God will continue to bless those who support us! I ask that anytime you hear of a business on our station, and you visit them... please thank them as well! 

~Matt

My List of THANKfulness

Okay, this month has once again erupted in things that people are thankful for. Many have been posting every day. It’s a neat idea, and I have failed to take part.

Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I’ve decided that I’d make a list of things I'm thankful for. They are in no particular order. Enjoy!

I’m THANKful for:

My Salvation. Without it, I’d be lost. (Of course, this has to be on the top, even if it’s in no particular order)

My beautiful wife. I just can’t live without her, and I don’t want to try. However, most wonder how she can live with me…

iPhone. Ummm, what’s not a reason to be thankful for it? LOL.

Coffee. One word that has so much power. Daily….

Spell check. Face it, it’s needed.

Facebook. Hey, it’s proof that my friends are eating well during the holiday season.

My Job. Working at the #1 Southern Gospel Music station in the US is just so awesome!

Polite, well-mannered and respectful children. Yes, there are those rare occasions!

Toilet Paper. Need I say more?

Hugs. I get them all the time from my kids.

Deodorant. Shall I ask for a raise of hands?

Batteries. They offer quite a charge on the many devices I depend upon

Pinterest. Dinners are more adventurous.

The delete button. Especially if I use it to delete a comment that I really ought not make on other’s posts.

Google. Who needs any how-to-book now?

Extended Family. Parents, siblings, in-laws, grandparents, cousins… we’re a crazy bunch! A challenge you to define “normal”.  

Febreze Air Freshener. Especially after burrito night. (Just ask my kids….)

Air Conditioning. Without it, life would be hot.

Elastic. It’s helping hold things up.

Texting. The best way to keep with my beautiful wife.

My church family. Remember, “Family”… and yes, they’re there for me! ;)

Internet. It’s part of my job and my life. Staying connected!

My house. It’s great to have somewhere to live.

Well, it's not complete! But hey... it was fun. Happy Thanksgiving!

~Matt

Who's To Blame on the Obama Bio?

There is is an controversial item hitting the news about a biography of President Obama. It’s causing a bunch of controversy among some conservative “news” websites too. They’re blaming “Common Core”.

I did some research... and let’s look at the facts.

The book is written by Jane Sutcliffe and published through Lerner Publishing. While it may adhere to the Common Core curriculum standards, Lerner Publishing is part of many homeschooling curriculums as well (and churches). The publishing company’s books are offered on many sites, including ChristianBook.com (The author’s book, “Stone Giant” is available for purchase there)

This is a reading book, not a “text book”. It is not forced to be read by students in a school with Common Core. However, might I point out, if bought by a homeschooling parent, the kids would be made to read it. (I was homeschooled and if my parent's bought a book, it was read)

Should a school offer a book with some factual errors? There are many books with false information out there. For example, walk into a Christian book store and tell me that you'd believe in every book they have on sale there. Many can lead a soul the wrong way. I'd think that those books are more dangerous than a book the presents a lie over a political figure. 

What books do we own in our homes that may have an error or two? Are they marked out so our kids don't read them? Do we read through every single book that our kids pick up at the public or church library?

Still, at least the public now knows of this book. What should we do???

Blame the publisher....!

~Matt

Vans Beware!

I thought this sign was so funny, I had to take a picture.

It appears that vehicles in our neighborhood need to be careful... A van was obviously suduced away from it's owners by a red car. 

~Matt

Duck Dynasty for Kids?

I saw this at the store today. Wow! Those guys really know how to market their name in everything....

Almost surprised that there is no beard on the front! Lol!

~Matt

Listening to Google Play Music!

I have many songs. Yes, I'm a collector of music! Of course, my library is huge when it comes to digital files. In fact, backing up my iTunes library... it took 33 DVDs!!!

My brother Sam mentioned that I ought to upload them too Google Play Music. They give you the ability to upload 20,000 song files to your account for free. I guess that's a good thing. It has taken several days, and I've uploaded over 17,000 mp3 files from my library! Wow.

To my pleasant surprise, last week, Google Music released the iPhone app! Now I can listen to any song in my library at anytime, anywhere. As you might imagine, I'm very happy with that. Especially since the Christmas season is soon upon us, I'm ready to make a few playlists of my favorites. It makes me wish my iPod had internet connection over WiFi.

By the way, I've already added some new Christmas albums to my library. One of them from Duck Dynasty! Oh yeah...!

~Matt

Coffee: My "Comfort Drink"

I enjoy coffee. During the weekday, I drink several cups of coffee until I clock out of work and head home. On Saturdays, I'll end up drink a pot throughout the day. Of course, it's also a Sunday morning ritual to drink several cups before doing the van route for church.

Coffee is my "comfort drink". If I'm stressed, if I'm over anxious, if I'm tired, if I'm too wired... it neutralizes it all! Plus, it's awesome. Coffee is something I enjoy drinking almost any time. 

During the holidays, I also enjoy drinking Dr Pepper. We don't drink soda except on special occasions. You won't see any in our refrigerator. Lydia enjoys getting Eggnog this time of year as well. That would be her comfort drink I guess! ;)

~Matt

Be-LEAF It!

We had a storm blow through over the weekend. Any leaves that were barely hanging on to the limbs are now on the ground. I was hoping to get out on Saturday afternoon and mulch those leaves, but it rained and they were too damp.

Even though I was frustrated that evening, come Sunday afternoon, I was feeling much better about it. I would have been upset to have done all that work and then find out that it was all in vain after church on Sunday. Most of the leaves are off the trees and in my yard!

So.... I guess it was best to leaf it be!

~Matt

Looking forward to Christmas!

With almost a month to go, am I excited about Christmas? YES!

May of my friends, family, current and former coworkers can attest... I'm a Christmas nut. Especially when it comes to music. It's one of the most joyous times of the year. I have my playlist ready, and I'm ready to go.

Yes, we've listened to a few Christmas songs already. However, I won't be playing it continually until after Thanksgiving. Or at least... that evening! :P

We plan on putting up the decorations on Friday the 29th if we can. I also have to purchase new outdoor Christmas lights this year since all the strands we've owned went out on us. There are a few changes in decorations that we're also anticipating... for example, our tree will be smaller since our living room is more crowded. That's what happens when you put in a piano!

No matter what, I'm still anxious about this joyous time of year.... just ask my kids!

~Matt

Vaguebooking

Over a week ago, I was introduced to a new term on Facebook. It's called "Vaguebooking". Looking up the definition, I found:

"An intentionally vague Facebook status update, that prompts friends to ask what's going on, or is possibly a cry for help."

It is a self-centered cry for attention with the hope that 'friends' will respond with concern or support. The posts are often deliberately cryptic and vague. Interestingly, I see these posts on my news-feed everyday. I guess that's what happens when you have over 800 'friends'. 

I like to think of myself as 'nice' when I read these post. I'm often tempted to release my 'humor' in a comment, but I refrain myself. In which I am proud of myself. LOL.

An idea that would be interesting is to get a group of online friends to make up a "vaguebooking day". Hey... Who knows, it could possibly become an international phenomenon!

Do you partake in "Vaguebooking"?

~Matt

TECH: NeoTV

Several years ago, we became subscribers to Netflix. We don't have cable or satellite, just the basic tv stations. It has been nice, and we've enjoyed being able to watch through our Nintendo Wii system. Occasionally, we'd plug up our laptop to the tv to watch some digital movies. 

We've seen things like iTv and other media boxes. Once we had some extra money, we purchased a new item for our entertainment system. It's called NeoTV MAX by Netgear. A pretty neat box!

Not only does it stream Netflix, there are also many other apps like Pandora and YouTube. One of my favorite features is it's ability to read USB thumb-drives! It will play most movie formats, including flash, plus play music and picture files. It is the neatest deal.

I rate it 5 stars! :)

~Matt

Homeschooling is better???

There are extremes to everything. One of the things that friends like posting about is their opinion on their children's schooling. I see comments, blogs, and posts on several sides in education. There's homeschooling, public schooling, and private schooling. All has their pros and cons.

I believe that it is up to the parents and situation on which is better. I don't believe that public schooling is for everyone. And I also don't believe homeschooling is for everyone either.

I was homeschooled and turned out fine. However, my kids are attending public schools, and very advanced!

What bothers me the most is when people will find an extreme on one side and then say its the best example of why the other system is best. For example, if one public school has a problem in America, my homeschooling friends will jump all over it. They'll blast all public schools, etc.

Why does this bug me? Well, when a homeschooling family goes awry, I don't see the public schooling parents raising a fuss. I hardly hear of a public teacher killing their students... But what about a homeschooling parent?

See this link: http://www.richarddawkins.net/news_articles/2013/11/4/christian-homeschoolers-receive-maximum-jail-time-for-death-of-child

Of course, folks could also take that article and set up a case against Christians, "Biblical" training, etc. Now, to me, these parents went to the extreme. No parent should have done what they did. 

Anyway, these are my thoughts for today!

~Matt

The CASE of the Hard Drive

In my last post, I wrote about my hard drive problems and the frustration of technology. This is an update, I'll share more of my problems.

My 1TB hard drive was inaccessible due to the fact that the usb plug broke from the external case. This pushed me to go online and purchase a case to be able to read the drive. Finally, after a week of waiting, it arrived. I was happy. However, on the way home, I looked at the box and my heart sank... it read: "supports SATA hard drives up to 750GB"!

I felt like crying!

Of course, I didn't open the box. I returned the hard drive and went back online to order the correct adapter. Now I wait again!!!

Will I soon be able to access my files???

~Matt

Losing my DRIVE!

Okay, with the title... I couldn't resist.

Lately, technology hasn't been treating me very well. You can say I'm not too happy with it. Even though my life actually depends on technology, I hate it when it fails.

Last week, I was doing some projects and needed to backup some files from my laptop to clear up more space. I plugged in my 2 terabyte hard drive that I had bought in April and it wouldn't show up. It has everything backed up on it. I had planned to organize everything and then back it onto DVDs. Well, that wasn't going to work. IT showed up on my computer as a mass storage device, and every time I tried to initialize it, I'd get a "failed" message.

I was soooooo frustrated and feeling sick to my stomach. So, I brought it into work to see if the Mac would recognize it. Nope. Same thing. Just a USB storage device that needs reformatted! Yikes!

As I was looking at the drive utility, I noticed that my work's computer drive had a red check by it. It was notifying me that it's external hard drive was failing! What? No way!

I called the IT department, and they said I needed to back it up and let them ship it in for replacement. Unfortunately, they didn't have any way of backing it up for me. :(

I went home that night and decided to see how much space I had available on my 1 terabyte that is designated for my media (movies, mp3s, etc). Sure enough I had room. But as I was plugging it in, the usb plug broke on the case. I tried  fixing it.... nope, didn't work. I was so frustrated.

In a nutshell, I found my self to have an un-formatted 2TB external hard drive that needs to be recovered, a 1TB external hard drive that I can't access, and a failing hard drive on my work computer!

Thankfully, tech department was able to let me borrow a SATA usb adapter for my 1TB hard drive, and I was able to back up the files at work. They took my work computer away to send it in, and I'm now working on my personal laptop to get my projects accomplished. I ordered a SATA hard drive case that would take several days to come in. I hope to soon be able to try to recover the files from my 2TB hard drive.


More frustration to come though...........

~Matt

Moses and the Bronze Serpent

A few weeks ago, I taught a lesson to the children in the Wednesday evening services. I brought my puppet/friend Ace to help me as I told the Bible story. I have found that having a puppet helps me explain in a level the kids understand. Ace brought a rubber snake, and the Bible store unfolded from there....

The lesson was on Moses and the bronze serpent. I admit that this is not the easiest story to teach and get the point across to the kids, but one that I believed was important. The past several lessons had been on signs, so this worked perfect!

The entire lesson dealt with faith and trusting the Lord (Numbers 21:5-7). After leaving the bondage of Egypt, the Israelite came to the border of the Promised Land. God was willing to give it to them. However, after the reports from the spies, their faith failed and they wouldn't trust God to defeat the giants in the land. It wasn't too long that that the people fell into unbelief and they murmured for being there, forgetting that it was due to their sin. God allowed fiery (poisonous) serpents to enter their camp due as judgement, causing death to those who were bit. The people turned to Moses who went to God on their behalf. God told Moses to create a serpent of bronze and hang it on a pole. The directions were simple. If bit, look upon the bronze snake and live. It was a test of faith.

As I explained to Ace (and the children), it was a simple healing. They didn't have do anything special. There was no great task or ritual. They didn't need to make an antidote. They didn't have to do any procedure. Just one simple act: look and live.

The serpent symbolized sin and judgement. A curse. Jesus himself said that the serpent on the pole was an early representation of him (John 3:14). It's hard for us to think of our Savior that way, but he took upon himself our sin, and was the curse in our place (Galatians 3:13). He became sin for us so that we can become righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21).

So the same applies to us. We don't have to go through a great task or ritual. We don't have to make up for our sins by doing good deeds. Christ is our Salvation. A simple act of faith... look and live!

---
As a side note, I also pointed out to Ace (and the children) that we often see God's symbol even now. Take a look at an ambulance or hospital. You see the "Star of Life". 

I didn't go into detail on that subject though. Just making the reference. The Star of Life is taken from the Greek deity Asclepius and his rod (associated with healing and medicine). But his rod may be linked to the Moses' bronze serpent, called The Nehushtan by the Hebrews. Remember, many things copy the original! Anyway, this could be a study within itself... ;)

Yes, I often get really involved in my studies!!!
---

 
 ~Matt

Garden Tomoatos!

One of the greatest benefits of my grandma having a garden in the backyard is that there is an abundance of vegetables! I love the cucumbers and tomato's. They make for a great snack. Of course, I'm not the only one that likes them. Lydia and the kids enjoy them as well. They don't last long once brought home and they don't go to waste....

Tomatoes from the garden are so good, it's almost a shame to mix them with anything else. So, I just cut them up, put them in a bowl, add a little salt, and I'm happy!

Yum!

~Matt

Princess Parking Only

One of the best part about knowing graphic design is seeing something and being able to reproduce it for myself... or in this case, my daughter.

I've seen several of the signs for "princess parking", so I redesigned it and printed it out. It's now on her bedroom door!

~Matt

Those Acronyms!

I often get frustrated when reading blogs and texts when they're filled with acronyms and shorthand words leaving me with "DNC". Thanks to texting and twitter, people go nuts with them... ain't that "GR8"? I'd often wish I'd have a decoder app that would help!!!

I know I'm not the only one that gets irritated at times. I've often went to Google for my answers, but that's not always the safest practice and giving me "511". 

So what do I use? Thankfully, there is a website that doesn't have ads or graphics: http://www.netlingo.com/acronyms.php

Now I'm in the loop!

"DUNA"

~Matt

It's been twelve years since the attack by terrorists on our nation. Like every year, I'll take time to day to pause and remember those who died in the tragedy, both victims and heroes. Many sacrificed to try to help save others. 

Then, there are the families of those who perished. I can't imagine losing a loved one under those circumstances. My heart goes out to them.

My mind goes back to when it happened. The days following when our nation gathered together with a spirit of unity. How dare we be attacked... There was call for justice, for freedom of fear, the longing for what is right. We looked back on what we stood for, those statutes upon which our nation was built. There was a great stirring throughout our land.

Yes, today is a day of remembrance. I will never forget.

~Matt

Time To VOTE!

It's time for you to help me out. I am to submit a song for a chance to win in the Cathedral Family Reunion contest.

I've narrowed it down to three songs:

• Going Home
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9357196/Going-Home.mp3

• I Know Who Holds Tomorrow
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9357196/I-Know-Who-Holds-Tomorrow.mp3

• Suppertime 
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9357196/Suppertime.mp3


Take a listen, and then comment or email on which you think I should send in!

~Matt

App Review: tadaa

I don't do too much reviews on mobile apps like I'd like to. I have a few I'm working on, and this is one that has really impressed me over the past week. I've moved it ahead of the rest!

If you follow me on Facebook, you'll notice I post many pictures. I'm not a professional photographer... I just enjoy taking them! Of course, having two photogenic kids and beautiful wife helps! I also use photographs to chronicle our lives. It's not unusual to discover I've taken over 600 pictures with my iPhone each month.

To have some fun with the camera, each month I do a "Daily Photo Challenge". This has required me to try out several photography apps. Some have helped and some have just been basic. I've been in search of one that would give me great controls, but yet be simple in operation. 

For now, it seems I found a great app. And best of all... it was FREE!

Tadaa has been helpful in letting me crop, adjust contrast and saturation, pick great frames, and give me great options for correction. I've also been impressed with some of the filters as well.

If you're looking for something to "spice up" your photos, then "tadaa" is a photography app worth checking out!

~Matt

Fact or Fiction: Columbus and the Flat Earth

I love doing research... unfortunately, it's on strange or odd facts that really don't matter. Today's post takes on a common misconception. Thanks to a story, there is a belief that is still widely accepted as historical fact and it's wrong.

Today, there is a belief that people in the Middle Ages believed that the Earth was flat. Supposedly, it took one man to prove them wrong.... A sailor named Christopher Columbus.

The fact: The earliest mention that medieval people believed that the Earth was flat is found in the book, The Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus, written by American writer Washington Irving (noted for other such historically accurate accounts as Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow).

The ancient Greeks knew that the earth was a sphere. It's interesting that NASA knows the facts, but some history books (and even a former President) gets it wrong.

So... what did you grow up believing? Have you done your research?

~Matt

http://www.textbookleague.org/26flat.htm

http://reasonableanswers.blogspot.com/2008/12/do-you-believe-flat-earth-myth.html

http://www.livescience.com/16468-christopher-columbus-myths-flat-earth-discovered-americas.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/busting-a-myth-about-columbus-and-a-flat-earth/2011/10/10/gIQAXszQaL_blog.html

The Uncertainity Continues (Cathedral Contest)

For those wondering... yes, I'm still undecided on what to submit for the Cathedrals Family Reunion contest.

However, thanks to the response (both be comments on the internet and by telling me personally), I think I've narrowed it down to three songs. I'm going to try and see what I can do, and of course, pick the right one to submit. 

The three songs that everyone seems to like is:

• Going Home
• Suppertime
• I Know Who Holds Tomorrow

The latter, is one I recently sang at church (video here), and was not part of my original list. 

The problem I have with these three songs is that they are slow. There is part of me that is hesitant on submitting something slow that those judging will be bored with. What if they're looking for something faster, more alive. But then again, each of these three show emotion that might not be captured well on something that is too 'peppy'. Hmmmm...

Now I need to get with my brother and work on the background music. I plan on recording all three and see which is the best. Perhaps I let friends help once again???

~Matt

Want To Help Me Decide (A Cathedrals Song)?

Hey, I need some help!

There is a contest coming up, and I need to make a decision on what to submit!

I video-recorded myself singing a 13-min Cathedral medley of songs... acapella! Of course, it's not professional, and yes, I hit a few sour notes and am out of breath a few times (like on This Ole House). It's not easy trying to rush this in a garage with no air flow or air-conditioning. I'm not super thrilled with some spots, but it is a genuine rough draft!

Anyway, I need to single out, redo, and submit one of the songs for the contest! It's not going to be easy. 

Want to help me?

Here's the list:

- An Old Convention song
 - Step Into the Water

- Wedding Music

- Yesterday

- Plan of Salvation
- Sinner Saved By Grace
- Going Home
- Thanks To Calvary
- Jesus Have Mercy on Me
- This Ole House
- Roll Away Troubled River

- Who Can Do Anything

- Suppertime

Comment, email, or send me a facebook message!

~Matt

RANT: Facebook Offensive

I hear a lot in Christian circles how horrible Facebook and social media is. Claims abound that it ruins families, causes sin, temptation, and allows filth in your life. I will not disagree that those things could happen, but there is also the fact that television and gossiping over the phone can do the same things. Like I've posted before, social media is a 'tool'. It all depends on how you use it.

For example, I've heard the argument that Facebook is evil in the fact that is cause of adultery. To that, I respond that you should then get rid of your car. You can't go anywhere to commit adultery without transportation. So would it be the car's fault? When it comes to sin, it's on the person. If you find something to be a stumbling block, then sure, remove it. But that doesn't mean it's the same for others.

With that being said, have a issue with some of my Christian 'friends' on Facebook. It's something that has been on my mind lately. It's come to be such an annoyance, that I'm using this post to address it. And I'm afraid that keep to my stance on removing filth (ironically, something that they agree on), I just might have to remove them as 'friends'. Yes.... Sad, but true.

I recently made this statement:

"I have never seen an offensive picture in the ads on FB. But, I've seen several 'friends' post offensive images recently. What's the deal? I don't need those images showing up on my computer or phone screen! Be responsible folks..."

This is something that has been really bugging me. Those who go and blast others in pubic about the use of offensive words and images seem to think it's okay for themselves to post it. They act as if theirs is done with a "righteous" tone. It's like they think it's fine for them, because what they have to say is truth. They condemn others but it's alright for them do it under special circumstances. I have one word for it.... "HOGWASH"! That's a blatant double-standard.

How can one be effective is showing a "Christ-like" example by occasionally posting something offensive? Sure, there is the 'shock value' of the post, but does it help or hinder their testimony? It sure doesn't impress me. If something needs to be said, re-word it! It's not that difficult to do.

I know that some might argue that I should "man-up" and just take what I see. Well, there is one truth to that... I need to be a "Man" and get rid of their posts. I have a responsibility to filter what is shown on my computer or phone. I also have a family, and my kids are often right with me as I browse my news-feed on my computer or phone. They don't need to see it either!

So, if you find yourself no longer my 'friend'.... you may need to clean up your posts!

~Matt

That "Evil Laugh"

Like mentioned in my last post, I believe I'm a light-hearted type of guy. I like to find humor in things and am generally always on the positive way of thinking, no matter what the situation. At least, that's what I'm accused of. And I agree.

I find humor in many things and usually will end thoughts with a chuckle. However, I do it too often and Lydia refers to it as my "evil laugh". Since she started pointing it out, I've noticed that yes, I do it quite a bit. It's almost becomes routine. In fact, I'll probably do it every other sentence. Yikes!

The kids have noticed it too. Now, it's not like I do it to be mean, or in a sarcastic way. I usually find humor in whatever I'm talking about and automatically laugh about it. That laugh is in an audible chuckle. It's not that I don't take things serious, it's just that oft times, I find humor in whatever the topic may be.

 

Again, like I've mentioned before, I try and see things in a positive light, no matter what the subject. I guess that it's not always the best approach, and it can been seen as disrespectful. I'm not intending it to be that way. But truthfully, I do try to make situations a bit more light-hearted. Apparently, I feel that things are more comfortable when in a positive mood.

So, if you're hanging out with me and I give my "evil laugh"... go ahead and laugh with me!

 

Oh, I think I like like the term "Crazy Laugh"!

~Matt

Why So Serious?

Lydia pointed out that, often, people don't take me serious. What? Seriously?

Okay. Yes, I admit it. I don't come across very serious when in conversations. I'm light-hearted, and can make a joke about almost everything (or I try). My comments tend to be on the positive side, and I do laugh at the irony of situations. I guess if you recorded my life, it could very well be a great comic strip or sitcom. I'm not kidding. Reading "Baby Blues" would give everyone a great insight on our family!

Am I a clown? Perhaps. I've been told I'd make a great stand-up comedian, and could hold a crowds' attention. Unfortunately, that crowd would either be young kids or elderly folks in a nursing home! However, to be honest, I'd be up for the challenge...

I do tackle serious topics, but it is in a way that's different than what others do. I have a odd way at making people think, it just won't strike them until later. My humor in conversation can be sarcastic at times. And people don't always catch it until later. Which is my strategy. I like people to think things through instead of making rash decisions on opinions, or being caught up in the moment with how they feel on maters. I am being serious, but in a different way. For example, there are often meanings behind my posts on Facebook and twitter... you just have to catch them!

There are times people don't know how to understand my way of conversation. Stepping back, I guess I can understand. I'm a bit unique. Hopefully, I'm not a walking contradiction. I want to come across as truthful. If there is a question about my stance on something, feel free to approach me and ask. If there is a disagreement, I will not attack you. My goal is to listen, but also give my opinion. Who knows, I may agree!

By the way, if you haven't noticed, I'll tackle some interesting topics here on my blog. I'm not here to spread hate or anything. Just trying to get people to think... and express my opinion too!

~Matt

Singing with the Cathedrals?

One of my dreams as a teenager was to sing with the Cathedrals. For those who have heard me sing with my family or in a quartet, the Cathedrals music has had an influence on our song selection.

There were two singers that I patterned my singing after, Tim Riley (Gold City) and George Younce (Cathedrals). Both are what I consider the best bass singers ever. I would get up every Saturday and sing for several hours, trying to mimic their style and range.

Recently, there's been the exiting news that the former members are putting together a Cathedral Family Reunion to be held in Texas in November! Of course, I'd like to go...

But now there is a chance to actually be able to join the members on stage!!! A contest has been announced, asking those interested in singing to submit a recording. Needless to say, I'm INTERESTED.

There is only one big dilemma...

What song should I sing?

Of course, I sing bass. I don't want to pick a super slow song, nor do I want to sing something too fast. I want it to be something that would catch the "judges'" attention. I have a few weeks to get my submission in. And of course, I plan to share my progress and the completed file here as well. If you have any suggestions, let me know!


~Matt

School Command Center

Lydia had came across a blog that described a Family School Command Center. It's a centralized place in the house where all the things from school get placed at the end of the school day. Things are then prepared and in place, ready for the following day. This is in hopes that nothing will get lost, and all will be there when ready to go to school in the morning.

We have totes for each kid that holds their backpack and school supplies. We hung a file rack for their homework and papers that need to be seen by us. Then there is a pin-board for us all to see those important notes throughout the week!

We hope that this system will work, and that all will go well. I guess we'll wait and see since school starts next week!

~Matt

Monster Trucks

Malachi loves Monster Trucks. Just like any boy... they're just awesome. He has several as toys, and enjoys running over his hot-wheels. One is a Batman Monster Truck. To our delight, while browsing youtube one time, we found it is a model of the real Batman Monster Truck! That made his day!!!

Back in the spring, Malachi had gotten sick, so I stayed home with him. There wasn't much to do, and since he had to rest, we searched Netflix for something good. Sure enough, I came across a documentary by the History Channel on the history of Monster Trucks. The show was awesome, showing us the first and biggest, and eve some of the accidents that have happened over the years. 

Needless to say, sitting on the couch together was a "bonding" experience for both of us. Since then, we have watched that video several times as buddies.

The other day, I was loading Netflix, and noticed that someone had recently watched a cartoon movie with Monster Trucks. So I went into his bedroom where he was playing and getting ready for bed, and told him what I saw. He looked at me with a serous face and said, "Don't worry Dad... it was just a cartoon, it wasn't the one with 'H' on it!"

Lol! ('H" meaning the "History Channel")

What an awesome little guy!

~Matt

I'm a Yellow Belt!

Last month I made a post about taking up tae-kwon-do. Well, I'm happy to report that last Saturday, I moved up to the yellow belt rank! Hooray....!!!

Now comes the task of learning a new form. I'm excited about it, but at the same time, a bit intimidated. I just got the white belt form down, and now I have to learn a new one. But, I'm going to do it. I can't back down now.

I have found tae-kwon-do to be a bit dangerous though. During class, we were learning new kicks and as I jumped up, I slipped and fell backwards toward the ground. I wasn't on the floor mats, and I landed on my right arm, just below the elbow. Talk about pain. I also strained a leg muscle. Go figure.

Perhaps if I can do all this damage to myself, if I get into a situation where I need to use my techniques, my enemy would get quite a bit of damage as well! ;)

~Matt

That's My Brother (Song)

During our church's Family Super Rally (a one-day VBS) last Saturday, our youth pastor, John, was leading songs. His two kids were on the platform with him. What happened during one of the songs made us all laugh.... so I wrote a song about it.

Now I just need a tune to go with the lyrics!

---

That's My Brother

(Verse)

I had an older brother,

He grabbed and licked my hand,

I tried to pull away, 

I just couldn't understand,

I want to say it was nice,

And he was showing me love,

But I live with him ev'ry day,

I just knew he deserved a shove!

(Chorus)

That's my brother, my dearest big brother,

Tryin' to get me in trouble, just makes me see double,

Yup, that's my brother, my annoying big brother, 

He annoys me all the time, just him breathing is a crime,

 

He's like no other... That's my brother!

Who I Am

My mind often wanders, and I often wish I could just put it all here. I just don't think the world could handle it!

Everyone has quarks and things that just annoy others. So, out of the blue, I asked Lydia to point out a few things. I'm now wondering if that was a mistake. Now I'm looking at myself a bit differently in a few ways.

For example, I didn't realize that I have an "Evil Laugh" that I use constantly. Yes… I'm going to make a post about this later.

Lydia mentioned a few other things. Some were humorous, some embarrassing. That conversation didn't end my thoughts, it fueled them! I'll be the first to admit that I'm not "normal". I have an odd sense of humor, I try and look at things from a positive side, and I tend to go overboard …..whoops….

I know I can't change who I am in most ways, but I can try to correct some things. It many ways, I'm the true me. I don't have anything to hide.

One thing that you can rely on, I'm a nut… And thankfully, my wife and family loves me anyway! ;)

~Matt

Fair Disappointment

After several years of no change, there is a new sign at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. And I'm not impressed.

Growing up, this sign would change each year with the theme of the fair. Then it would stay up until the following year. We would anticipate it.

A few years ago, they adopted a new logo for the fair, and the sign remained unchanged. There was no theme, just the logo and text. Unfortunately, thanks to the weather and sun, the colors faded and it was looking pretty bad. There was peeling around the edges and it appeared like the fairgrounds was rundown.

Just last week, the city moved to allow beer as part of the fair experience. Of course, this was for the revenue it would bring. Then on Wednesday, the day before the fair starts, they fix the sign with Budweiser logo and add a electronic sign. That was fast!

Now, I'm disappointed for several reasons. There is no theme, no art, not even the logo for the fairgrounds. Instead, beer is more prominent on the banner! I realize that Budweiser obviously paid for it. But it is very dull. Not even appealing.

Of course, I'm also not too happy about beer being 'allowed' on the grounds either. But having worked there as a teenager, I don't really seeing it being any worse. Folks who wanted to get liquored up would do so before walking in the gates, and would often party at their vehicles. However, I can guarantee that security will be beefed up for the next few years. There is no way that the fairgrounds will want there to be any chance of trouble, otherwise they'd have to reverse the decision and lose out on this great revenue.

I don't favor the idea of alcohol at a place that should have a "family atmosphere". But truth be told, I've never really thought the fair to be the most family-oriented event. It's fun, but I personally think the zoo or circus to be better. Going to fair is like the rennin for "people of Walmart"…. or worse!

Will we go this year? I'm not sure. We weren't impressed last time. And truthfully, I'd rather spend any extra money we have on something more enjoyable.

~Matt