The Mike Littau Project

2012 New Years Resolutions and Recap of 2011

2011-12-31T19:57:00.000-08:00

How did I do for last years goals?

1. Lose more weight - I did drop about 15 pounds last year. Not quite what I wanted. But overall I am down about 40 lbs in the past 3 years. (I'd say I accomplished this goal)

2. Have a better financial year - We did better, saved better, paid off some things better. It was less stressful being prepared for November and December which was a big goal. Didn't quite pay off 2 cars as I hoped, but in one way we did since we sold the vehicle and bought a truck :) (I'd say we sort of accomplished this goal)

3. To be involved in ministry and use the guitar more - Stepped out and got involved in a really cool Life Group last January through May. Played the guitar more, not quite how I had hoped. I'd say as I'm getting more comfortable I'm stepping out more. (I'd say I didn't quite live up to what I hoped in 2010)

4. Climb Mt Shasta - Not quite so much on this one but we took the family as far up Lassen as we could go. That was really fun. (Didn't accomplish this)

5. Visit My brother in Pennsylvania - Didn't happen, not at all (Failed)

6. Win the battle of the cats pooping in the backyard - From putting down spray to electric fences, we really did win the battle until the fence came down. We did in the end win because we moved and I felt like before the move that we had won the battle with our electric fence. (Success)

7. Get a good camera and get into photo taking - We got an awesome Nikkon camera at costco for our 10 year anniversary. Love the camera... took lots of pictures. (Success, but we could had done more)

8. 10 year anniversary, plan an amazing trip - Well, the amazing trip didn't happen as money was tight that month during the Spring... but we did get an amazing camera and had a good time together. (Failed the big trip)

9. Connect with friends, get some deep relationships - I really bonded well with Benji Edwardson... he was like a brother to me all year, my biggest support and person I could talk to. He has been a great friend to me and this was a great connection. (Success)

10. Teach Rylee how to ride a bike before age 4. Totally nailed it... she picked it up on her own... she is a champion! (Success)

My 2012 Goals

1. Lose more weight. I've been having steady practice at this... I'd like to say I can drop the final 40 lbs... but I would be really happy sitting here next year dropping another 25.

2. Run 800 miles next year. I did over 630 this year... It was a challenge to do that but I had some bad months and I can blame them to being sick or vacations.

3. Have Nathan potty trained and out of diapers. Please God, let this happen.

4. Spend more time with the kids, play with them more, teach them cool things to do.

5. Spend more time in the word, pray more with the family, listen to God, find passion again.

6. Cook more as Jamie loves it when I do this once in a while. Maybe have designated times that I do this so she doesn't have to think about it.

7. Run a marathon

8. Go camping, and try to really make it enjoyable or simply enjoy it.

9. Visit my brother in 2012 in Pennsylvania

10. Blog more, 2011 was not so hot.

Still Kicking

2011-12-11T19:33:00.000-08:00

I have not given up on my blog. Sometimes it becomes so long since posting that I wonder what to do. Maybe I can get in a better routine of writing. It was one of my 2011 New Years Resolutions to do more. I guess if I posed more in 2011 than 2010 then it was a success.

Today marks the end of soccer officially. The games were over at the start of November but we signed Emily up for a 6 week Soccer Training Camp. The goal was to teach her to be more aggressive and pick up some skills. At the end, the best thing for her was a new love for the game and wanting to play in the Spring. That is a huge thing as she is generally ready to give up and we have to talk her into playing again.

We go into a period of darkness in our family with activities. No soccer, baseball, Life Group, nothing we are committed to. In fact, even our TV shows go on break as they don't run new episodes until January. Some of our favorite shows Amazing Race, Survivor, Biggest Loser... all done until next year. So what to do?

So who reads this still? Just curious as I'd like to write more. I'll review my New Years resolutions for 2011 and grade them to see how well I did next.

Hello Again

2011-04-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

This brought me to my blog today as someone had a blog question and I had to look at mine to help them understand how to do something. It reminded me that it has been a while since I've caught up with the world or whoever reads and subscribes to this. I'm sure I have hundreds of followers. :)

It was about February since the last time I posted something so I'll get everything caught up to date. I previously was dwelling on a few things such as trying to lose more weight, getting ready to go to Vegas, and my excitement for the Hillsong United concert.

A lot has happened since and I would hope so since it has been 2 months. Life has really been crazy as it is baseball and soccer season as well as our Life Group and Awana. For the past few months Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday's have been consumed with all of the above activities. It has been really good for the family to be doing so much but this schedule couldn't continue forever. Actually this week things seem to be getting easier as it is our last Life Group until next Fall. Soccer really only has about 4 more weeks. There is something about school getting out in about a month which means... life slows down.

Jamie and I celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary. We celebrated by heading out to Market Street Steakhouse for the 1st time and really enjoyed the food. We then went out to Vintner's Cellar and did some hanging out and wine tasting. I took the day off work and our gift to each other was the most amazing camera any person could own. This takes photos to an entire new level with our Nikkon D3100. The zooms and detail with the 14 mega pixel is awesome. This helps accomplish one of my New Years resolutions to get into photography. I'll promise to post some amazing photos soon.

I've been playing baseball again with Benji Edwardson. It has been a lot of fun as we are not only hanging out on the field but also Jamie and Kassie have been getting together. Enjoyed played and getting together as well as opening a bunch of wine bottles together. I will say that baseball has been great with my new custom made 35 inch maple bat. It is the biggest bat in the league and I feel confident that I can cover any pitch.

We have a 1/2 marathon in about 4 months in San Francisco. I think so far Matt Kibler, Josh Ritter and Tim and Crystal Mapes are signed up. We should have a fun group of people. I've got to get more aggressive in training for this as I need to be 20 lbs lighter. I need someone to work out with and stay accountable to the goal! Anyone want to partner with me for 4 months?

Family stuff, my brother Jeremy and wife Amy are having a baby soon. I think 20 more weeks... I'm pumped for them. I want to fly out or take a road-trip out to the east coast. Really excited for them.

Championshp and Toppers are coming up soon for Farmers Insurance. It is our 5th year of qualifying as a 5 year agent. I've got an amazing bunch of people that work for me that help us qualify for this. I'm really excited as two of the Agency Producers qualify to go this year under the new program. It is a great part of Farmers as they recognize the efforts of the producers which help make the goals for the office. We'll be heading to San Francisco and San Diego for the events. Not the most exotic locations like in previous years, but free trips and great entertainment is always good. Farmers is bringing in the band Rascal Flatts this year.

Ok I could write more but I've got stuff to do. I need to stay on top of this blog. I'll keep the updates going if I know people are reading :)

February 2011

2011-02-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

We leave for Las Vegas tomorrow for 4 days with a Farmers Insurance trip put on by our District Manager. I'm really looking forward to a nice break out of town. We might leave some snow-storms that are on the forecast over the next few days. Travel is good, especially when Farmers pays for most of the costs in these sort of trips.

I have been in the weight loss mood since about August 1st and still sticking to it. Some months have not quite had the great results, but being on track has been the key. In looking at previous years, when Winter weather hit, early dark nights, and the sick season, it has been really difficult to stay on track. I've been staying on track with good support from Jamie, good health, determination to not go back to how I was. The nice weather over the past 3 weeks has made it awesome to be able to run outside. Yesterday was a real bummer as it was cold, rainy and windy so I went to the gym. Once again the treadmill at the gym shut down in the middle of the work-out. It was really frustrating as 1/2 the machines were broken that night... so I only got a mile in and some weights. There was no way to convince myself to head outside last night.

We had a great Valentines Day... sort of started some celebrating Sunday evening with a fire-pit, nice dinner inside and just doing something different other than the routine. I took the kids out and we bought Jamie some flowers, candy and a card. Of course they picked out a Princess card that sings. I'm not sure Jamie has been able to touch it as the kids ran off with it the moment she opened it.

The Giants opened up camp on Monday. I'm still having a hard time getting excited about the season after my team burned me by winning the World Series early. Long story, but they cost us some money with the season tickets. I'm sure with good weather, I could be convinced to be excited soon. We are entering the crazy season with stuff... Baseball Season which involves the Giants and playing, the kids at AWANA, Soccer Practice and Games, Jamie and I have Life Group with The Stirring. We have taken softball out of the mix until things really calm down as things come to an end.

Sunday Jamie and I went into covenant to make The Stirring our home. We love the church so much and know in this season of our life, this is exactly where we are supposed to be. Looking back with everything involved that got us to The Stirring, we really believe this was God's way of moving us along His way as this is the season God has called us into. It was a really difficult year in 2010 and it is really nice to be settled in and surrounded with a great group of people we have met and attached ourselves to.

We are heading to the Hillsong United concert in Sacramento in a few weeks. The new album came out yesterday and as a friend said, "It sounded more artistic rather than the worship feel from the previous albums". I really agree and I'll need to listen to it a few more times. So far, a bit disappointed with the album an hoping the concert uses a lot of the music from previous albums. I've been growing more and more attached to the Jesus Culture music and can say a lot of great things about the album "Consumed" they just put out.

That's it for now...

Middle of January Update

2011-01-17T20:25:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I like the start to 2011. This year is feeling really good and I feel I'm off to a great start. I can't believe it is the middle of January, it sort of feels like this year has been going longer than it is.

We just got back from Reno. Jamie and I took off Friday afternoon and got back late last night. We had a blast! It was our 1st vacation for the two of us since last May. We booked a stay at the Peppermill a few months ago and got a spa suite for an amazing price. We ate at 2 amazing restaurants in the casino that are some real fine dining. Jamie got a prime rib that you could had cut through with a butter knife. We took some time to go bowling and check out a movie. Spent some time at Scheels and did some walking and jogging around some trails we found. We had a wonderful time together and it really felt refreshing! We have Las Vegas to look forward to in less than a month as our District Manager is taking our office as a reward for some 2010 production.

I'm still on track with losing some more weight in 2011. I'm down a few more pounds since the year started. We are eating healthy, super healthy! That said, with all the money we are saving from not eating out, I've become a huge fan of Trader Joe's. I was a fan before but even more now as we are able to find more organic foods and some great meals.

Normally by this time, I'm getting really excited about baseball season. I'm not finding it yet... maybe it was because the 2010 season was exhausting? Maybe it is because the Giants won the World Series and it doesn't seem like there is much left? Maybe it is because the Giants burned me and didn't give us at least a Game 6 and a possible Game 7 so we could sell our World Series Tickets? Not sure? That said, I am staying interested in the Bears as they are in the playoffs. They play the Packers next week which should make an exciting game.

I'm ready for some warmer weather. I'm ready for some longer days of sunshine. I'm ready for the ability to go on a long run at 8:00 PM or 5:30 in the morning. Sounds like a bit of Spring?

That's it for now...

New Year Update

2011-01-02T20:53:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's 2011. Some things on my mind so far...

1. I'm the biggest freak in tracking sun rise and sun set times this part of the year. Well sort of... but I get generally excited that we are getting more sun-light as it means more outdoor activities are around the corner. Since December 13th we have gained 12 minutes of sunlight in the evening. It will get more aggressive and about 1 minute per day. Day Light Savings is on March 12th which will put sunset at about 7:14 PM and we are at 4:54 PM right now.

2. We went to the snow yesterday. It was a great experience other than Nate as he is still a bit young to go. We went to Eskimo Hill for the 1st time ever, loved it. It didn't seem nearly as dangerous as the legends have seemed over the past 15 years I've lived in Redding. I can't wait to go back again... maybe every weekend from here on out! We hope to next time to have a big fire-pit like the other families so kids can stay really warm. Anyone want to go with us?

3. We got the Xbox 360 with Kinect. We had the old system but I am going to sell it. The new system came with Kinect and wireless is built into it. I think by the time I sell the old system, we'll come out ahead with the new system as I was going to pay for the Kinect and Wireless thing. This is so much better than the Wii!

4. I took a lot of time off work the past 2 weeks. I feel blessed as I have great staff that allowed me to be able to take the time with family. But back to the grind as I have 50 hard weeks ahead of me to meet the 2011 goals for Farmers. I feel that 2011 is going to be a great year for my family, the office and the staff. I think looking ahead I'll be looking for one new staff person if Matt goes to the CHP and possibly a 2nd person if business takes off.

5. I feel I got some answers at church today and this is the year that God is saying it is time to get up and start doing something. 2010 was a year to sit back and soak things in. I need to add something to my New Years Resolution... but I need to take my guitar out once a week. Interesting today in the sermon at The Stirring of how Elijah threw down fire and killed hundreds in one day. He saw the glory of God and then his life was later threatened so he ran away in the wilderness. He was human as Nate said today like the rest of us. When we have seen God's power in miraculous ways, why then do we run away from God and not be used?

6. The Bears play in 2 weeks for the 1st playoff game! Sunday January 16th at 10:00 AM... guess I won't be attending church in the morning. Maybe time to check out the evening again that day? Ummmm, baseball starts in about 45 days with Pitchers and Catchers reporting to camp... crazy!

7. Vegas Baby! We are going for 4 days at the end of February with a promotion within our District with Farmers. I'm taking 3 of the staff as the other couldn't go that weekend :( But it'll be a fun time, really fun time! I found last time that we had a lot of fun with the shows as there is plenty to do. I think we'll have to hit up more shows this time. Our District Manager is paying for everyone's trip including air, hotel and some extra stuff. Awesome!

8. Jamie's birthday is on the 10th. For a few months she has been saying all she wants is a night by herself at a hotel with no kids and lots of peace and quiet. I'm trying to give her 2 days. Please pray for me everyone... I'm not sure I can do as awesome of a job she does.

2010 In Review and 2011 Resolutions

2010-12-31T14:26:00.000-08:00

I always like new beginnings and fresh starts and New Years is something I really look forward to.

Here is a recap of 2010:

January - A month I hated with passion. I wish this month would had happened differently. We ended up going to a new church at the Stirring and this was a really hard thing that still doesn't sit well with me. A year later, still trying to work through how God can use our family. If nothing else, maybe this was a sabbatical to be away from ministry for a year that was a healthy season? Walking away from a ministry we were a part of from the start was really tough.

February - Nathan turned 3 months, we got to feed him rice cereal. For all my kids I really looked forward to this as it was the 1st step into our kids growing up. We did Disney on Ice and it is funny how Emily just asked the other day if we could do it again. We traveled to Reno and I went to Scheels for the 1st time... awesome store. Makes me want to jump in the car and go there again just thinking about it.

March - This was a great month. We went to Seattle for the 1st time with a Farmers trip. Just an awesome time, heard a great band "Heart" and had some awesome food. Ally played soccer for the 1st time, and Emily skipped soccer as she wanted to do Dance. This is something she has wanted to do for a very long time. Our local Men's Baseball League started up again... I'm pretty lucky to get to play... Jamie is always so supportive of me and getting some "Man Time". We went to South Lake Tahoe with another Farmers Trip. I still dream about the food we had at "19 Kitchen" as it was the most amazing food. I've had the longest cold ever... this seemed to last from the day before leaving for Seattle to the end of the month. I did very little running this month and feel off track for my New Years Resolution. Emily learned how to ride a bike... it was awesome.

April - Jamie and I celebrated our 9th year anniversary. Tim Mapes and I went to Opening Day for the SF Giants for the 1st time. It was an awesome game.... amazing game! I'm starting to lose all the weight gained in March from being sick and not working out. I signed up for the 1/2 marathon in San Francisco in June... getting trained for it. Rylee is potty training... awesome.

May - We went to San Diego for Championship with Farmers. It was an amazing trip, we took our bikes and rode up and down the coast. Had a dinner aboard the Midway and heard the band Foreigner. Did a bunch of running as well in preparation for the 1/2 Marathon.

June - School is out...awesome! I feel like I get a break from having to drop off and pick up Emily from school. Kids are going to water works all the time. We went to Anaheim for Toppers with Farmers. Awesome trip as we took the kids and had Disneyland passes for the week. We spent a lot of time with my sister and her family. My sister watched our kids a ton as the planned baby-sitter got the stomach flu at the last moment. Went to the beach as well, love the beach. I did the 1/2 marathon in San Francisco... it was not what I expected. I had only trained up to 9 miles in running and felt adding another 4 wouldn't be too big of a deal... but it was! The last 4 miles took the life out of me. I was not in the shape I wanted to be in, my ankles hurt for a week, and I ended about 20 minutes later than my time I was hoping for. We still had an amazing trip in San Francisco as we got to watch a lot of baseball and spend time with family.

July - I don't remember a lot about July. It was a slower month in general with not a lot of trips, things just really slowed down.

August - Soccer started up again for the kids. We convinced Emily to give up dance and try soccer one more time. Emily is loving it... so excited as I really missed her playing. Ally is on a team that is much different from the Spring... hard for mom and dad to get excited about her team as it seemed not really all together. School started and Ally got to go to pre-school for the 1st time. Awesome as she has been begging to go to school for the past few years. Emily in 2nd grade sounds weird... she is growing up!

September - Emily and Ally are doing great in school. Emily signed up for cross-country and will be running the 1/2 mile race every week. We are enjoying the kids in soccer with great weather this year as the previous year was ridiculously hot. Watching tons of Giants games as they are fighting for a playoff spot. The Padres lost like 10 games in a row... amazing! Giants ended up winning the NL West... I'm so excited as this has been a drought for the the playoffs for about 6 or 7 years.

October - Watching the Giants in the playoffs and this has been a crazy month. I spent a lot of time at the Bleachers Sports Bar either by myself or with friends and family. This was an amazing month watching them play. They ended up winning the World Series but I'm still really upset as the Giants won in 5 games meaning that we didn't get to sell our tickets for Game 6 or Game 7. The Giants cost us about $12k by winning too early... I'm still really bitter. I went to Reno for the Farmers Agents Conference. Had a great trip, learned a lot, played a lot, hung out with some great people.

November - We set up the Christmas tree and the house early again this year! But we agreed we would not do it until after Nathan turned 1 and we had his party. My parents came up and we had a fun back-yard party as the weather was great! I ran the Turkey Trot for the 2nd year in a Row and got a time of about 4 to 5 minutes faster than last year. I ran it in over 53 minutes. Next year my goal is to run it in less than 48 minutes and beat an 8 mile pace.

December - This is the 1st month in December I can remember that I didn't gain weight. In fact I have been able to lose more weight this month. I'm down about 20 lbs for the year and have had some up and downs. My trend is really on the right track as I'm still losing, working out a ton, feeling healthy. We had a great year with Farmers Insurance, the office and great staff. We had a great Christmas.

2011 Goals:

1. Lose more weight... this is going to be my year I've been trying for the last 9 years. I'm at a great point, but I want to lose 50lbs this year. I want to stay on track and make this year to remember in finally being able to get in great health. Losing some weight in 2010 was great start, but I'm going to finish it this year!

2. Have a good financial year with healthy spending and budgeting. Pay off the 2 vehicles this year and possibly a small loan I have for my agency. Have a larger reserve set aside for next November and December to carry through those months.

3. To be involved in ministry and be able to use my guitar. I'm really wrestling with this one and hope God can point me in the right direction. I took all of 2010 off, maybe 2011 is the year God can bring me back to music. In a lot of ways, I miss the good old days of playing weekly at Bridge, but maybe I'll understand how I can be used in 2011.

4. Climb Mt Shasta to the Top. I've made it up to Lake Helen 3 or 4 times... this is the year to make it to the Top!

5. Visit my brother and wife in Pennsylvania. Not sure if we can take the kids or not... but I want to make it out there.

6. Win the battle with the cats pooping in the back-yard on my grass... I declare war, I'll win in 2011.

7. Get a good camera and pick up photography as I've been wanting to get into the art.

8. 10th year wedding anniversary, plan an amazing trip to celebrate.

9. Connect with friends and get some deep relationships.

10. Teach Rylee how to ride a bike before she turns 4 years in August.

Random Stuff

2010-12-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

I'm still getting a feel for getting back into my blog. It feels good to write but figuring out what to write is complicated as I feel like my lack of consistency in keeping up requires me to relate everything. It'll get easier over time as I keep up.

I recently did the Turkey Trot for the 2nd year, I hope I can keep that going every year. It's a funny thing what happens with losing weight, the times get faster. I was able to knock off about 5 minutes from last years time. I didn't quite reach the goal of 6 miles under 50 minutes, but next year it is going to happen. I'd like to break 48 minutes next year with my goal.

Emily is getting an award on Friday at school. They do awards a few times each year, but the one to get is the "bull-dog" award. I'm really hoping she gets it this year as she works so hard and really wants it. The other day in the car, Emily was asking, "I sure wish I knew how you can get the bull-dog award as I want it so bad but I never get it". I think it'll break my heart for her if she doesn't get it.

So why do people not blog any longer? Obviously people have run to Facebook, but it just doesn't go as deep. Can you really look over your Facebook the past 5 years like you can on a blog? Does Facebook really tell the story of your life better than a blog. I sort of see this to be like a journal that even my kids can read in 40 years and wonder, "What was Dad all about". Maybe they can read through the blog and remember how proud of them I am or see the memories that stick out the most. If blogging was around when I was a kid, I would totally have loved to read through the writings of my parents about me. I guess this is a general challenge to all to start blogging again as it is not only important for you, but your legacy :)

That's all for now...

My Story

2010-11-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

I've decided once again that writing and keeping this blog is really important and something I'm going to be committed to doing again on a really regular basis. I've got some good ideas of formats for different themes I want each day of the week to be about. The theme for Monday fits in exactly what church was about yesterday. I've come away each Sunday blown away by what I'm hearing and I need to start taking notes so I can look back on what I'm hearing so I can remember to apply that. Yesterday was about telling the entire story of Christmas and putting all the scripture together so we can see the entire picture. Dan mentioned that we need to be people that share our stories as they need to be heard and I felt challenged to share... so here we go.

I can honestly say that I'm the most fortunate person to walk this planet as I have a real defining experience in my life that I will always look back on to know how REAL God is. Not too many people have experienced what I did, but I wish everyone did as it makes your belief in God so real and beyond just having faith.

We were living in Fremont, CA and I was a teenager. We were doing a remodel on the house and I was helping the contractor rip down the ceiling in the garage as we were converting that into a living room. As I was looking up and we were ripping the ceiling, some small tiny piece of debris landed in my eye. At first, it was one of those things that you'd normally blink a few times and let the eyes water a bit and it would be gone in a few seconds. Strangely, it didn't come out. After a few minutes it was still there. I could hardly open my eye and tried to rinse it out in the kitchen sink. We tried looking in my eye for something, but nothing could be found. Hours went by and this thing was still in my eye and all I could do was walk around the house with my hand covering my eye so it could stay shut as it would hurt to open it.

12 hours later, I went to bed with this thing still in my eye thinking maybe magically it would be gone in the morning when I wake up. Of course when I woke up, it was still there. I was so annoyed. I remember standing in the shower with my eyes open into the water trying to rinse it out. That didn't work. I remember, filling the bathtub with water and dunking my head in the water thinking it this thing in my eye would come out as it would wash away like swimming in a pool with the eyes open. Nothing was working.

So my parents took me to the Doctor to see what they could do. He looked in and could see nothing. He decided to try and flush out my eye with some sort of bag that looked like an i.v. solution. He went through 2 bags of fluid and nothing worked. I remember leaving the office frustrated as whatever he tried to do couldn't work and there was no action plan other than wait and see what happens. So I went through the rest of the day miserable and just holding my eye closed hoping to just go to bed and couldn't wait until night.

I woke up the next morning thinking that there would be no end to this eye problem once again. It was Sunday morning and I really didn't want to go to church as I was embarrassed having to walk around with my hand covering my eye as it was going to look weird. We had a youth service at our church and I remember going through motions of listening to the 1st set of songs and listening to the youth pastor preach. He did his typical thing at the end of his sermon saying that during the closing worship if anyone wanted any sort of prayer to come forward and see one of the youth leaders in the front.

I thought to myself, I feel really weird going up front asking for prayer. What are people going to think of me? I was in so much pain and frustration that I figured, "What the heck, lets get some prayer. I'll take anything at this point." I sat down with the youth leader and explained the situation. We closed our eyes and he did the most simple prayer of asking for healing. We both knew that this sort of thing just doesn't happen, but we asked God anyways. This prayer was about 30 seconds in length, probably less than 30 words... possibly 50.

I opened up my eyes after the prayer, It was gone! Whatever this possible thing that was in my eye for the past 48 hours was gone. There was absolutely no tears shed during the prayer if you are possibly thinking that I cried it out. The youth leader even looked at me like "What the heck just happened!"

It was the weirdest thing that ever happened to me in my life. But, I'll always look back in my life with the understanding that I went through an experience in my life where God healed me and showed me how real He is. Most people walk their life believing in God and living in faith. Surly some people think to themselves of the thoughts that they might die and figure out that Christianity was a waste of time and a fraud. What I went through showed me how God is real through an incredible but simple miracle. There could never be any doubt as long as I live that even though we can't see Him... He exists and His glory was shown through that experience. I just wish everyone could have an experience like that as it would change the way we think and live. It would make a die-hard atheist change their beliefs.

So that is my story and my testimony. You just never know how God will respond when you pray, but remember today that He is listening every time you speak to him. He's listening and I hope you get blown away like I did! God is real, no doubt!

6th Annual Heater War

2010-09-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, my last post was May 5th, totally ridiculous! Where are my accountability partners that remind me that I'm behind and need to do some posts?

There is something about today that got me in the spirit of blogging... the rain. It reminded me that cold weather is just around the corner which will mark the 6th Annual Heater War between our family and the Smith's and anyone else that would like to participate. We are down 3-2 but absolutely confident the score will even out this year with the birth of the Smith's new baby in October.

Last year we lost on the day Nathan was born on November 11th... so we at least held out until the baby was born. The Smith's baby is due in the middle of October, so I fully expect them to hold out to the day the baby comes home.

A little back-ground on the contest for the newbies. It really comes down to saving energy and trying to save one month of a brutal utility bill by holding out the longest to turning on the heater. This is all about pride and energy conversation. It shows how strong or weak each family is to braving the cold air. You can't turn on the heater, fire-place or space heaters. The only thing you can do is turn on the oven and cook or take a hot shower to warm up.

So it is on this year, we will even up the score and hope that Leslie gets pregnant quickly this spring in time to lose again next year!

Long Time Update

2010-05-05T11:24:00.000-07:00

I was looking at the last update which was about one month ago... totally crazy! I'll not be so bad about this in the future as I'm sure you all are just dying to get updates from me :)

Lets start by updating on the topics from the past:

1. SF Giants - I'll have to admit that I was nervous going into the season as we typically get off to terrible starts. This year we are off to a great start. I've never been so motivated to go to games as we have been playing well. Heck... I'm actually 2-0 on the year for games we have attended. I went to opening day with Tim Mapes and saw an incredible game. Then Jamie, Emily and Ally and I went to a Friday game against the Cardinals and won. Best part of that event was getting a Giants Snuggie blanket.

2. Still planning on the SF Giants 1/2 marathon. I'm working my way up to the 13.1 miles and focusing on a good time. I'm up to 6 miles and hope to be up to 7-8 miles by the end of the weekend. We'll be in San Francisco the entire weekend and hopefully catch 2 or 3 of the games against Oakland. We got a great deal on the Marriott we love to stay at down the street from the park. It is a 2 room suite including parking which runs about $45. I think we are paying $125 per night... incredible deal.

3. Ally has been fun to watch in soccer. Last week they tried a new thing to have all the girls play in the 3rd Quarter and the boys in the 4th Quarter. It made a huge difference as Ally played her best all year. Probably less intimidation with the boys being faster and stronger. She was an absolute animal on the field and turned into a dominant player. They said they will probably make all girls teams next year which would be great for Ally. Emily is even suggesting she wants back in soccer.... I hope so as I really miss watching her play.

New Stuff:

1. We leave for San Diego in less than 3 weeks for Championship with Farmers. It is our 4th consecutive year we made it with being an agent for 4 years. I was told today that we are the only agency in the company history to make it 4 years in 1st 4 years of agency. Pretty cool stuff... got good staff to prove it. The band Foreigner is going to be playing... once again I had to look up the ITunes top hits to refresh myself. One of those nights we'll be having a dinner on the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier, that should be a real treat. We chose golf for one of the Farmers excursions this year. Never done golf in the past and always wanted to.

2. Toppers with Farmers is in June. This is a down-scaled version of Championship as between 5% to 7% of Agents make this each year as the goals are super easy. This will be in Anaheim next to Disneyland. This trip is a bit tricky as the kids go with us on this. We'll have Disneyland passes for one day for Jamie and myself, but we'll have to get passes for the kids and then determine the days we can go. I saw the agenda includes a night at the House of Blues... maybe we'll have a really cool band this year?

3. I've been playing baseball in the same league this year. I'm enjoying it a lot more as the team doesn't have the plentiful amount of pitchers like our previous team was stacked with. I'm getting a lot more innings which is helping me get better and better. We could be playing better this year but still having a lot of fun.

4. What can I say about softball.... 4 years in the making... we went undefeated this year! Playoffs are Monday and it has been such an easy team and season. Everyone is so relaxed and having a bit more fun as the pressure is pretty low-key. It helps to be playing with a lot of good players. Nice to be on the opposite side of things beating teams every week by 15 runs. And... we are even in a higher league.

5. Yep, climbing Mt Shasta again... or going half-way up. We've been talking about that as it has been a while. I'm hoping we can do it in July or August this summer. I'm even debating taking Emily this year as I think she can handle the hike. It would be some great memories forever for her.

Our 9th Year Anniversary Evening

2010-04-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

9 years is not quite 10 but still something huge. We can say we are in our 10th year of marriage which makes it sound like 10. I'd thought to share some of the stuff we did.

It started around 5:30 PM. We were really hungry but we had always wanted to visit the Shasta Historical Society museum as we are such fans of history. We were there for almost 2 hours and gazing over the history and photos. It was a real treat. We had to really find the energy inside us to pull us out of the building so we could go eat.

After that we thought over what 9 years really meant and decided with our hunger pains it would be better to fast and give up the meal for the Lord as we sit and pray. We found a bench in a park and gave praise to God for 9 years of marriage as we gazed into each others eyes remembering how lucky we were to have each other.

Everything was going perfect and we felt it would be best to give up the next hour of fun to go volunteer at Walmart at offer our services and time to pull in grocery carts from the parking lot. We covered the parking lot like no one else could. Even though there were times that we were on opposite sides of the parking lot, we never lost eye contact with each other as we were celebrating something special... 9 years. We worked up a sweat volunteering our services, but found it rewarding to give up our time.

It was a bit late, but it had been many years since being able to work on one of our favorite hobby's. Yes, bug collecting. We were only missing a few of those bugs that only come out at night time to complete our collection. It was a special moment as we were both going after the last bug we needed for the collection and our nets got each other in the air as we trapped the fire-fly. What a perfect night and great way to complete our bug collection on our 9th year anniversary.

We had to pick up the kids later in the evening. Through all the chaos in the car with the kids doing their normal thing of making ear piercing sounds in the car, it felt magical. These kids were a symbol of our marriage and in our eyes, there was nothing they could do wrong. We even encouraged them to be louder as it was a soothing sound for us to hear. In fact the ride home made me think of having surgery reversal cause we should add another 4 kids to our marriage for a total of 8. We knew something was missing with the gap of kids, so we headed to the ER for emergency surgery to reverse what was done to prevent us from populating our house even more. The surgery was painful but well worth it.

We had separate beds at night time to celebrate purity as it wouldn't feel right doing anything else in celebrating 9 years. It had nothing to do with the intense pain of emergency surgery reversal but because we wanted to give up another thing in our long evening of celebration. We stayed up all night sitting on our own purity beds 10 feet apart from each other and just talked, and talked and talked some more. That is one thing we still LOVE to do in our marriage is talk. There is never an end to conversation between us and we even made a list of all the topics that we couldn't cover last night that we hope to hit on today.

I will say that 9 years feels great. It was a great night of celebration. 10 years is going to be huge. We've talked about going at the celebration by doing big stuff such as visiting a train museum, watch our favorite show on the home and garden channel, taking the metal detectors out to the sandy beaches to find some jewels, or dedicating some time to help find some of the criminals from Americans Most Wanted.

Morning Update

2010-04-05T09:12:00.000-07:00

I'll devote my 1st paragraph to mention it is Opening Day for the SF Giants today. We play Houston at 4:00 PM. I feel like a little kid today as I'm so anxious for the season to start. It has been a long 6 months of no baseball in the Littau house. The Giants come home on Friday and it appears I'll be heading to the game for real this year. Tim Mapes and I had been talking about going to opening day for the past 15 years and never made it happen.
Weather last year was a big issue but sunny skies is the forecast. Looking back, we did opening night with the Smith's about 3 years ago for fireworks and it was almost rained out. I remember it being cold and miserable that night... and the Giants got killed! That is as close as we ever got to opening day.

My previous Giants postings around opening weekend:
http://todayinmike.blogspot.com/2009/04/my-sf-giants-experience.html

http://emyally.blogspot.com/2008_04_01_archive.html

I'm trying to get ready for the 1st half marathon I've ever done. It'll be about 13 miles in San Francisco and the previous longest distance I've run is 6 miles. I never lost my motivation to get in shape in 2010 with New Years goals, but I had the energizer bunny cold that was all of March. I lost about 5 lbs last week with lots of hard work but it is a struggle. This week I've decided to not check the scale until next Monday morning and be focused on drinking about 120 ounces of water each day. I've not been drinking enough and that has been a problem as I sometimes wouldn't drink a lot at night and be thirsty as I was trying to beat the scale each morning. That is a big problem and I can't continue that as I've heard that you can't lose weight if you don't drink a lot of water.

We took the kids to see How to Train a Dragon at Movies 10. They are remodeling the inside and outside. We didn't expect the left side of the theater to be all done when we walked inside. But it was amazing on the inside. Leather seats, two levels of seating, better sound. It was awesome on the inside and made me want to go to the movies again and again. The best seat in the house is the 2nd level front row so you can recline and put your feet up on the railing.

I've been thinking a lot of how I can leave my mark on the world. I really have been sitting back and not involved in ministry like the previous 10 years. It feels really weird to not be doing music or just doing something. Some things that went through my head recently were centered around that we feel spiritually good when we are doing works. There are other ways that I know I'm able to leave my mark on the world such as giving money and generously. I'm also taking a much bigger role with the Alumni Association with a new term of a leadership post that I'll hit more on next week after our meeting this weekend. Time and money is being used so much different than the traditional church setting, but I do want to leave my mark on this world and be able to hear from God that I was able to use everything He gave me and did well with it.

Weekend Update:

2010-03-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip to South Lake Tahoe as part of a promotional trip with Farmers Insurance. Farmers put us up at the Embassy Suites but Jamie's side of the family owns a 4 story condo and they don't use it very often at all. I imagine we will go back again and again if we get the chance now that we know about it. The condo sits at the very top of the mountain which is just over 7,300 sq ft. The lack of oxygen makes it really tough to go up and down the 4 flights of stairs. The view was incredible from the condo and only 4 miles up the hill from town.

Friday evening we had dinner at the most amazing restaurant 19 Kitchen. It was the best food I had even eaten and I'm really glad we didn't have to pay for it as the tab was running about $250 per couple. Just amazing food. We've watched Hells Kitchen before and always dreamed of eating food from an amazing chef... well this was it. I think I might have to save up some money and do this once per year or every other year as I can not get my mind off how incredible the food was.

Saturday was the choice of Spa Day or Ski Day. We chose the Spa Day and I gave up my spot to Jamie's mom as I wasn't too interested in it. They each got about 1 hour of work on the neck and feet. Saturday evening we went on the River Dinner Cruise. Another amazing thing to do as the views are just incredible. The food was great. This was good as we had a great time getting to chat with some really good Farmers friends we have come to know more and more over the 4 years. They say that Farmers Insurance is like a family... totally true as we have come to love the fellow agents and management team as we have some tight bonds with people.

Sunday we did the drive home and got to stop by Scheels again. Took the kids on the Ferris Wheel again and I got to pick up some stuff for baseball season. What a great sporting goods store and the kids love the place. We had a nice drive back as Ally and Emily were in a different car. Jamie, Nathan and Rylee all took naps for most of the way home.

I'm really lucky to be an agent with Farmers. It seems like all our family vacations have always involved something with Farmers but our cost is very limited. I want to try and get the staff out to something really great over the next 4 weeks as they work really hard and probably need to experience something out of Redding.

Baseball season has started... I had to miss Sunday's opening day game. But the weekend was totally worth it. I did find out that all our baseball games are at 9:00 AM this year. I'm really glad they are not 12:00 as that would be breaking up our day a bit. We should be able to still have a relaxing family day as we do the evening church thing at Stirring. Oh, did I mention that opening day for the Giants is next Monday! I'm soooo excited!

Afternoon Briefing

2010-03-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

I feel that I'm pretty much over a cold that has lasted about 2.5 weeks. I looked at my running history at the Daily Mile web-site and saw a huge gap from the running from when I started my cold to about the time I was able to muster up the energy and air in the lungs to run. I don't feel that my New Years Resolutions have ended and I'm getting really fired up again. So here is to good health for the future!

I'm training for the longest run I've ever done in June which is a 1/2 marathon in San Francisco. I really want to be able to run this without having to do any walking. I'm not ready by any means and need to drop about 40 or 50 lbs by June to be prepared for this. I have 12 weeks until the event and believe if I can lose a steady 4.5 lbs per week, I'll hit my goal. I'm really determined and excited for this.

Opening Day for our baseball league starts this Sunday at 9:00 AM. We are heading to South Lake Tahoe for the weekend for a Farmers Insurance event. There is nothing scheduled on events for Sunday as it is a travel day. The real question is if I get up to travel at about 4:00 AM or not?

Wanted to touch a little on softball as I'm super excited that we are 3-0-1 on the year. Super bummed that some of our old players are not out there to experience this, but we are having our best season ever! We got moved up into a higher division and it is sort of fun as we can actually hit Hr's. I tried out a new bat last night from another player that is made so much better than our other bats and hit a nice HR last night. What a difference some of the bats make! We won last night 22-6 in a short game of 4 innings because of the "mercy rule". It is super fun playing with Jamie this year... just love having her out there and seeing her have some fun. She is hitting so well and looks so hot in her Giants shirt on the field :)

Jamie already posted that we finally had rocket launch day at the park. Yeah, it was not already put together in the box and was a kit that took about an hour. The kids seriously asked every 2 minutes if it was ready. It took a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. The 1st few attempts we burned through the small container of vinegar and it failed as I failed to read one important step. So we went back to the store and bought a gallon of vinegar. Follow the link and scroll down to watch the awesome video of the rocket launch.

Yep, Ally had her 1st game. As Jamie mentioned in her blog, Ally had a smile on her face during the entire game. She was having a blast chasing the ball. The other team was stacked with awesome players and much older, maybe Ally will get the ball more at her next game. But she got her snacks at the game which was the most important thing to her.

Experienced an amazing worship service at Stirring on Sunday as a band from Seattle came down called The Kings. They took the "leading worship" to a level that was just amazing. Awesome, Awesome, Awesome group. I'm trying to find them as they have some CD's, but have not been able to do a internet search for them just yet.

Wanted to give another plug for Tory who is going to be working at our office starting in May. He is doing some training and learning... I just love his motivation, passion and energy he has. He has the chance to go back and work at Fed-Ex and make great money as he has for many years, but with his shoulder injury back in October, it won't be good long-term for him. I hope to see Tory continue here for many years and still carry the passion and love for this office!

Other than that, could say a lot more, but will save more for later!

Good Early Morning!

2010-03-10T06:59:00.000-08:00

I've been up since about 3:30 AM. I just woke up coughing as I'm trying to get rid of the cold and I knew I probably wasn't on the verge of going back to sleep... It wasn't worth making some noise and waking Jamie up as she deserves her sleep. It worked out well because at about 3:50 AM I heard Nathan crying and Jamie came out. I suggested I could do a bottle so she could go back to sleep which worked out well.

I drank a lot of hot tea and checked out everything happening in the world with news, sports and facebook. I did come across a new series starting on HBO similar to the Band of Brothers and Saving Private Ryan directed by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg called "The Pacific" It looks totally interesting and starts this Sunday night. It'll be good for the DVR, I just need to call Dish to see if I can get HBO free for 3 months.

Trip to Seattle was good. I thought it would be a typical Farmers event for achievement clubs we've attended. This was totally different as they had a theme of 1910 as we are celebrating 100 years as a company that we have been selling life insurance. The event was on 3 floors with a huge variety of food stations and drinks just about every where you look. All the Farmers executives were there including our former CEO. It was interesting as our former CEO of Farmers appeared to have body guards with him as he now runs the show for our mother company Zurich. We were treated to a fire-works show on the water with legendary rock band Heart performing. I came away really impressed with how the company planned out this event and entertainment... they went all out!

In two weeks, it appears we'll be heading out to South Lake Tahoe for a 3 day weekend with Farmers for hitting those 2009 goals. I wasn't sure we were going to attend this one, but Nathan is bottle feeding very well. This is still in the works as it appears we'll be attending, but we'll see.

SF Giants are now 6-1... totally crazy! Yep, opening day is right around the corner, can't wait!

I took Ally to her 1st soccer practice last night. She has been mentally ready for this for 2 years, I seriously mean that. She approaches this game much different than Emily as sports is more of Ally's thing. It was 42 degrees outside and the coach was going to keep practice real short as it was freezing outside. Ally asked me in the car about snacks at soccer practice as she was so used to Emily getting snacks after each game. I was having a hard time trying to explain to her that the snacks are for games and not practices. I think I got through to her until her coach decided to have a "game on the field" during practice. After practice, Ally wanted to know where the snacks were and I had to once again explain that we only get those after games... but she explained to me that they did play a game. I then had to explain to her that it was a "practice game". I don't think she understood as she is determined that snacks are a part of going to soccer no matter if it is a game or practice. I also got to watch Ally has the coach 100 questions when they were in the huddle talking about a game they were going to do.

Last thing, I'm a total sucker for my girls. I find myself giving into them when they want another bath, snack, watch a movie or being thrown in the air or dragged on a blanket on the hard wood floors. I can't say no to them as they know how to ask for things in a way that I can't say no. I'm in real trouble as they get older!

Weekend Update

2010-03-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Yep, we leave for Seattle tomorrow. We'll be there for 23 hours and 50 minutes. It is our 100 year celebration for Farmers Insurance in the Life Insurance field. To get an automatic bid, we had to issue 100 policies in 2009. The rest of the agents and district managers were chosen to go based on raffle tickets earned. Our office was 1 of 30 out of about 15,000 agents that got the automatic bid. Some of our friends protected their families by purchasing life insurance last year... Thanks for protecting your family but also helping our office! The recognition will be nice tomorrow night at the event, but "Heart" might just be the best thing as they play a 2 hour concert for Farmers. I'll let you know how that goes!

Jamie and I were discussing lots of possibilities on how for us to proceed with dedicating Nathan to the Lord. We've always done this with all our kids and Nathan is growing up real fast. I've invited my Dad to pray over Nathan as we'll have a celebration for the dedication. Based on all the circumstances, this was our favorite choice.

I've got a new staff person coming on board at the office. I like the guy as he has a great personality, very motivated, learns fast, listens well. He is a team player and gets along well with everyone. He'll be doing some training over the next few months and getting licensed and writing some policies as he gets ready for the real deal on May 1st. I've sort of always felt that the staff that became part of the office were part of God's plan. This new person seems to be the right fit at the right time as Matt is "hearing some voices" to join the CHP. That is a funny story I hope Matt blogs about before I do.

I wanted to give another plug for the "Erase the Dark" Art and Film Festival at The Stirring on Friday March 19th. Tricia Kibler is going to be displaying some of her art and all the raised money is going to help a school with the most hardship in Redding, Cypress Elementary School. Last year The Stirring was able to purchase brand new shoes for each student! Come support Tricia... it'll be an awesome experience! http://www.thestirring.org/erase/

SF Giants are now 3-0 with the start of Spring Training! Awesome!

Hillsong United is going to be back on the West Coast this Fall. They are touring the East Coast in April. I've also come to LOVE a band Jesus Culture. We are really lucky as they are based in Redding and out of Bethal Church. Worship Music really excites me... We have been really enjoying the worship experience with The Stirring team at the 5:00 PM service. We've been so incredibly busy these days and the time of the service has been perfect for our family... in fact our flight gets back from Seattle at 4:35 PM on Sunday with 25 minutes to spare to attend church. We have not forgotten about our friends and family at Bridge... it just hasn't worked out recently for us, but we hope to see you soon!

What's Happening

2010-03-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

I'll give a little update with what is going on and things I can remember...

1) Softball started last night for our co-ed team. This is seriously the best team we have ever put together. We had a girl on our team recruit 4 or 5 players from the upper division teams. We played last night for the placement game which is where they watch us and determine what division we'll be in. Jed Wilburn pitched a fine game as he didn't walk anyone last night... impressive as it has probably been 2 years since he has pitched regular for us. The girls can play... they play very well! It'll be fun to see how we develop.

2) Yeah baseball... just getting too excited for the season to start. SF Giants first spring training game is tomorrow... things will be really heating up. Our own baseball league for Redding has started up. I'm on a new team this year and really happy with the situation I'm in. I'm going to get to pitch full time. The previous team I was on the past 4 years had a lot of talent and I was really limited with pitching opportunities. Maybe every 3 or 4 games I got a chance to pitch. With the 4 kids, time is a bit crazy... I'll be able to play in the games I can attend without the pressure of having to be at every game. I'm in a real good situation with feeling less pressure on this team and still being able to carry the team with pitching.

3) We leave for Seattle this Saturday for a big Farmers Event. We had to issue over 100 Life policies last year to earn this automatic bid to go. We were 1 of 30 offices nation-wide that did it. Not so bad out of over 15,000 offices. They'll be about 300 to 400 other agents and District Manager's in attendance as they earned raffle tickets and were chosen to go. With all the spouses, and employees... I'm told we'll have a group of about 1,300 at this event. My staff rocks! With every reward we get at the office I always need to mention that I didn't do this alone... So I'm real proud of the staff and the hard work they put into helping the office. Farmers is bringing in "Heart" to perform a concert for us. It'll be some great recognition for our office as we are getting more and more known from Home Office.

4) Ally starts soccer this month... still waiting for the call from the coach for the 1st practice. I'm really excited for her as I see a real big competitive side to her. I can't wait to see her bring out all that aggressive energy on the field. I know I'll be a screaming dad on the field as I'll be so excited out there.

5) Emily skipped soccer this Spring but she is getting to do something she really loves which is Dance. I'm so proud of her and glad that she is getting to do something enjoyable and a passion that she loves so much. I hope that she can develop over time and refine those skills so she can use this passion someday that can carry her into adult life. Maybe she'll be the next Disney on Ice dancer or performing on Broadway and well known actress? I think Emily has big dreams!

6) At the Stirring, Nathan has been leading us in the series, "Living God's Dreams". A big thing I've picked up is that we have dreams and visions... but sometimes God has bigger plans for us. I've been dreaming about the future in developing something big next Fall. We are in a listening period and just sitting back and enjoying being in the presence of God each week. BIG things down the road... but it is all about God's timing and listening. God just has bigger plans than we can ever dream about.

7) March 19th is the "Erase the Dark Art and Film Festival" hosted by Stirring. This is the 2nd or 3rd year of them doing this. They raise money to go to Cypress Elementary School. Last year, they raised enough money to purchase shoes for each kid at the school. Amazing! This year they hope to raise enough money to purchase a lot of computers and sound equipment to help complete the computer lab and also create a program to teach the kids about music. I see some future worship leaders being raised at the school! Thousands of dollars will get raised. This will be an amazing event... I know a bunch of us are going... wanted to invite you out to this as the creativity, videos and art is just going to be amazing! I'll give a plug for Tricia Kibler as she has submitted some amazing art that hopefully will be on display!

That's all for now... I can think of lots of other things but this will be too long. I'll save more for a few days out!

Weekend Update

2010-02-15T20:12:00.000-08:00

I love blogging, and to those that stopped... encourage you to start up again. Your future generations will be missing out on all the great stories that they could be reading :) It would had been cool to read back to my parents or grand-parents blog if they had these options.

We had a fun weekend heading off to Disney on Ice with the Kids. I was sort of dreading the experience before we got there thinking that our kids would be bouncing out of the seats and hard to contain for the 2+ hours. I pictured the days taking them to a baseball game and struggling to keep them in their seats. This show was much different as they had a blast. Each of our kids was interesting to watch as Emily sat still soaking in the show, Allyson sat on my lap as she got a better view whispering in my ear every 10 minutes, "Your the best daddy ever!" Rylee sat on her booster chair clapping and dancing to every beat of the show. We were able to go to the show without one tear of them wanting all the toys that averaged $20 each. We'll have to do this again next year.

Went to Ikea for the purpose of replacing one of our matching night stand lights that has broken twice. They are the touch lamps and we really like these. We showed up and the lamps were on clearance from $89.99 to $39.99 and only 3 left. I was tempted to purchase an extra as they are not going to ever be in stock again but we held off with just 1 as it made financial sense. Still, how exciting that they were super cheap as we picked the best day ever for the replacement. That left enough budget money to load up on our favorite candles as we are "candle freaks".

We went to Reno and stayed off the strip as our last minute reservations reminded us that anytime you want to go to Las Vegas or Reno for Valentines, you better plan ahead. No rooms available at casinos including Silver Legacy, Circus Circus, Peppermill, Atlantis... any fun place. Found a good rate 5 miles away from the strip, but it turned out great. We visited an awesome sporting goods store called Scheels. www.scheelssports.com This place was incredible and the size of Mt Shasta Mall. We spent about 3 hours inside the store, just the most amazing sporting goods store you could ever visit. I did some math and we were up about $15 at the casinos by the time we left home... not so bad!

Spring Training opens up in 3 more days! I know I've said before that I'm ready... but I'm really ready! Tomorrow I'm getting my glove strung up again for the start of baseball season. We have our 1st scrimmage this Sunday at Big League Dreams. It has been about 4 months since throwing the baseball, looking forward to seeing how my arm feels. Had a sharp pain at the end of last season with the shoulder, I sort of thought that might be some end of the season stuff.

Baseball + Baseball + More Baseball

2010-02-02T15:08:00.001-08:00

It clicked with me today... I'm so ready for baseball! It is just about time for the season of baseball to start and here are some things I'm either looking forward to or considering with anything related to the shape of a diamond and 4 bases.

1) Obviously the SF Giants are a hot topic. Spring Training opens up in 2 weeks and opening day is the 1st week of April. I've already thought about games I want to attend, people that I hope go with us as we've had some old traditions and can create new traditions.

2) I've played in a baseball league. It has previously been a demanding schedule playing 2 times per week and with 3 kids in the past. Things are a bit different now as the new league structure has a "pay as you play" concept as I wouldn't fee pressured being at all the games.

3) Have to include softball with this because it has a diamond and 4 bases. As the weather gets good, we can be sure to be back out with the next league in March. Can't wait to get the players from before back on and add some from our "waiting list" if others don't play.

4) Nathan won't understand baseball much, but over time he will get it. For now... still fun to get the kids involved seeing dad play ball and getting to enjoy the playgrounds and food at all venues where baseball exists including home.

5) Rally Cakes will be back... Jamie has missed this probably :) If you don't know what a Rally Cake is... then I'll be happy to explain.

6) I miss how baseball takes away the distractions in life. With the off-season was a dry period... something magical about the game as it brings people back together to do and talk about something we love. Sometimes its not about the game, but the relationships out of the game.

I can't tell you how I can't wait!!!

Totally Random:

2010-02-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

Some random notes that really spoke to me last night in the series of "hearing God's voice" As I feel my heart is churning, it is also fun to see God working in the hearts of others as we can process this together.

Without God's voice and intimacy, I can't be the husband, father, insurance agent or leader in life that God wants of me.

2 simple things in life, "Love God" and "Love Others"

Like a guitar, "Be in tune with God's voice"

Trust to surrender all our thoughts over to God and just listen.

There are times to speak when God tells us to... there are other times to just listen and pray which requires doing no action.

We don't need to know God's will... We need to know God's love.

Tearing Down The Walls

2010-01-30T22:50:00.000-08:00

I took down one of my previous posts as I feel it let my close network of friends and family get a feel of how I was standing hidden behind some walls. Again, I really appreciate the thoughts, prayers, emails and words of encouragement. Trust me, I didn't want to draw attention but felt like I was hiding behind a lot of emotions and it was easier to write things out and paint the real picture of what was burning inside. Maybe I'll re-post this later as it represents a life journal, but not now as it should no longer draw attention.

It is time to move forward and try to allow a time of healing and continued prayer for reconciliation. I still believe that God has a path and right now I'm listening for some direction as He speaks to me.

I know beyond any hurt, I have a love for Bridge Community and the people. I have a burden for the church to continue long-term and knowing part of that includes our deep desire to feel listened to. God, please restore the people and the church and let us find a way to come together in your name!

It is time to tear down the walls and heal.

Today's Devotional:

2010-01-29T12:28:00.001-08:00

I was asked to write a devotional for Simpson University for the monthly publication.

You are the driver of your bus!

I was given a book a while back by a leader and friend within the organization I work for titled, "The Energy Bus" by Jon Gordon. The theme centers on 10 Rules to fuel your Life, Work and Team with Positive Energy. This book really changed my life perspective as I was reminded of how important it is to be surrounded by positive influences and people that help fuel my energy. I realized that I'm the driver of my own bus and I needed to take a careful look at the passengers that ride with me.

I crave Positive Energy! That said, I believe that I can have traits of being over optimistic. For example, when we decided to lay hard wood floors in our house, I was confident that I could get the project done in 1 day, but of course it took 3. I find hope in situations that others consider a lost cause and it is because I believe in the impossible.

Sometimes we find ourselves living in the past and dwelling on that negative energy as the world is always reminding us of the mistakes we have made. We need to remember that God's glory will shine through our weakness as our life is a living and breathing version of how God's grace has intervened. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness".

Some questions I ask of myself each day. 1) Have I accepted God's grace so that my past failures don't bring me down? 2) Do I have a Positive course in life and understand my Vision? 3) Am I surrounded by Positive People?

When saying goodbye to people, I always say, "Make it a Great Day!" It's because we can with the choices we make, the people we surround ourselves with and the power of Christ that lives in everything we do. I encourage you to read, "The Energy Bus" and I hope you "Make it a Great Day!"

Random

2010-01-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

* I think I had it wrong a while back ago with my estimate to the start of Spring Training. Officially it starts on February 18th and that leaves us 26 more days to go! I'm anxious and ready.

* I'm heading down to Sacramento to speak to about 500 agents on Tuesday for Farmers Insurance. Agents are always wondering how our office hits some big numbers. My message is clear each time I speak... stop doing it by yourself and get some motivated staff. In all reality, the staff are putting up the numbers, I just help the management part and directing traffic. That said, I'm pretty blessed for those that work for me and the hard work they put into making the office great.

* With worship team at the church, I feel we have had a really difficult transition to get to the place we are at right now. Musically, we have never sounded better. I walked away from Thursday practice just amazed of how awesome it is with our bass player (Tim Scarbrough) back and him bringing a very gifted electric guitarist (Cory). Things are going to be smoking if we can work to the magical date of January 31st for a re-launch with the new team.

* As I have edited this point many times, I realize I can't get too specific just yet. But I've been left in a real tough spot as I've been hoping for reconciliation at a place that we attend. I can not understand the approach that is being taken of not talking about the issues and just hoping things work out over time. I'm trying hard to keep a positive attitude with this and keeping my mind renewed each day. I know in my mind I can at least say that I really did give every chance to try and stay in working this out. Sorry for the honesty but this one is really holding back a bunch of us in moving forward.

* We helped Josh move today to an apartment. It brought back all the fun memories of when I lived in the apartments. I miss the cheap rent and the cheap food. There are some things I really don't miss, but the memories are priceless! The work involved in moving... not so priceless :)

* We are getting involved in a "Life Group" that starts in a few weeks. We already have about 8 to 10 people ready to go. The cool thing is that 2 of the couples joining don't have a home church. Hopefully this kicks off with about 12 in early February. We'll be meeting on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. If you are interested let us know. We'll be going through some books of either Financial Planning, Positive Energy or Relationship themes. We can tie in scripture to help support the stuff we get to talk about. I'm really excited for this!

* Last thing.... ever been to Seattle? Want to go? Jamie and I are supposed to be in Seattle for a Farmers Event that the office worked incredibly hard to qualify for. We issued over 100 Life Insurance Policies in 2010... 114 was our final count. We earned our way to a Life Celebration for Farmers in March but the problem is that we can't leave Nathan behind. I'm determined to bring someone along so that Jamie can enjoy this celebration. They just announced the 80's and 90's band "Heart" will be playing... this is my era :) It is actually crazy that 48 of us got automatic bids with our production but about 500 agents will be in attending with raffle tickets they earned. It still feels good to be part of a very elite group... I just hope Jamie can come!

Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah

2010-01-21T09:25:00.000-08:00

I think Facebook has really killed some people's blogs. So I'm curious to see who is listening out there, who is checking the blog. I guess I could always make my blog go private and use it as a writing tool to say everything on my mind? Maybe if you are listening and I go private, I'll invite you to read.

So to all Blog users... is anyone out there listening?

94 Leadership Quotes...

2010-01-18T08:21:00.000-08:00

Came about finding this the other day as I am preparing for my presentation with over 500 agents in a few weeks in Sacramento. Agents have to be good leaders to be able to achieve goals with a Growth Mindset as opposed to a Goal Mindset.

Character

It's true that charisma can make a person stand out for a moment, but character sets a person apart for a lifetime.
You build trust with others each time you choose integrity over image, truth over convenience, or honor over personal gain.
Character makes trust possible, and trust is the foundation of leadership.
Character creates consistency, and if your people know what they can expect from you, they will continue to look to you for leadership.
Over time, is it easier or harder to sustain your influence within your organization? With charisma alone, influence becomes increasingly more difficult to sustain. With character, as time passes, influence builds and requires less work to sustain.

Communication

Great communication depends on two simple skills—context, which attunes a leader to the same frequency as his or her audience, and delivery, which allows a leader to phrase messages in a language the audience can understand.
Earn the right to be heard by listening to others. Seek to understand a situation before making judgments about it.
Take the emotional temperature of those listening to you. Facial expressions, voice inflection and posture give clues to a person’s mood and attitude.
Persuasive communication involves enthusiasm, animation, audience participation, authenticity and spontaneity.

Credibility

Credibility is a leader's currency. With it, he or she is solvent; without it, he or she is bankrupt.
Speak the truth. Transparency breeds legitimacy.
Don’t hide bad news. With multiple information channels available, bad news always becomes known. Be candid right from the start.
A highly credible leader under-promises and over-delivers.
Diligent follow-up and follow-through will set you apart from the crowd and communicate excellence.
A trustworthy leader goes the extra mile to remedy strained relationships, even when it doesn’t appear to be required.

Failure

"Failing forward" is the ability to get back up after you've been knocked down, learn from your mistake, and move forward in a better direction.
Don't buy into the notion that mistakes can somehow be avoided. They can't be.
Failure is not a one-time event; it's how you deal with life along the way. Until you breathe your last breath, you're still in the process, and there is still time to turn things around for the better.
You are the only person who can label what you do a failure. Failure is subjective.
Don't allow the fire of adversity to make you a skeptic. Allow it to purify you.
Generally speaking, there are two kinds of learning: experience, which is gained from your own mistakes, and wisdom, which is learned from the mistakes of others.
Seek advice, but make sure it's from someone who has successfully handled mistakes or adversities.
When to quit: (1) Quit something you don't do well to start something you do well. (2) Quit something you're not passionate about to do something that fills you with passion. (3) Quit something that doesn't make a difference to do something that does.
People change when they hurt enough that they have to, learn enough that they want to, or receive enough that they are able to.

Followership

More than anything else, followers want to believe that their leaders are ethical and honest.
When your people see that you are not only competent to lead but also have a track record of successes, they will have confidence in following you, even when they don't understand all the details.
As a leader, it's your job to get your people excited about what their work will accomplish; it’s a natural motivator.

Fostering Creativity in Others

People are an organization's only appreciable asset, but creative people are an organization's most needed asset.
Be willing to absorb some risk and failures to allow people freedom to express themselves.
Creative leaders inherently know when rules need to be challenged, and they can see when a more flexible approach should be taken.
Handle the ideas of your people carefully: If an idea is half-developed but has potential, pass it to the people in your organization who are proven process thinkers and implementers.
Sometimes giving your people permission to be creative is not enough; inspire them by modeling creativity.
The word 'reactive' and the word 'creative' are made up of exactly the same letters; the only difference between the two is that you 'c' (see) differently.

Fostering Your Own Creativity

When you are the leader in your field, it takes a greater level of innovation and commitment to stay there.
Make a point to continually search for a better way of doing things, even when things are going well, to ensure that a better alternative has not been overlooked and to keep your creative talents in practice.
Practice mental agility: Before you write off a far-fetched idea, back up and look at the big picture, because it might fit perfectly on another level.
Have fun: When you are truly having fun in your work, creativity flows freely.

Leading Difficult People

Consider who you are working with: Part of the art of leadership is discovering the unique relationship between the needs of the individual and the organization.
People only know that you and the organization intend to meet their needs when you tell them so.
Determine how to help the person, tell them how you will do it, and follow through – before asking the individual to do things in return for you.
People working together ultimately succeed or fail based on their commitment to one another.
Never give up easily on one of your people; it does a disservice to that individual and to you.

Leading Leaders

The better you are at surrounding yourself with people of high potential, the greater your chance for success.
Every relationship in your organization will affect you one way or another. Those who do not increase you will inevitably decrease you.

Motivating Others

When you delegate a task to your people, make a point to help them capture your vision for what the completed task will look like.
Hold your people accountable to a measurable standard of excellence, and make rewards and consequences a part of enforcing the standard.
Give your people full responsibility (ownership) for the completion of specific tasks and the prospect of sharing in the rewards that result.

People Skills

Successful leadership is about 90% people knowledge and 10% product knowledge.
You can have strong people skills and not be a good leader, but you cannot be a good leader without people skills.
The highest compliment a person can receive is one given by his or her leader; make a habit of being generous and sincere with your compliments.
When your people are having trouble seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, remind them of the purpose of their work and help them envision what their work will accomplish.
Don't judge what your people want to tell you before they've told you. Listen to them.
Part of your job as a leader is to help your people figure out what they're most passionate about, and then to help them pursue it.

Personal Growth

The more seriously you take your growth, the more seriously your people will take you.
Leaders never outgrow the need to change.
My leadership began to take flight when I allowed myself to press people to change—whether they thanked me or cursed me.
Eventually, you must disengage from the relationships you’ve outgrown, or they will limit your growth as a leader.
Leadership involves the heavy burden of responsibility, and the fear of getting it wrong can paralyze a leader.
Confront your inadequacies and push your personal boundaries: It’s the surest way to grow, improve and expand the scope of your influence.

Procrastination

It doesn't matter how hard or long you work if you're not accomplishing what needs to be done.
Plan and execute your first failure so that you no longer have to fear it.
If the size of a task causes you to procrastinate or completely shy away, break it into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Often people fail to start or complete a task because they don't see any connection between what they're doing and what they really want to accomplish in life.

Recognizing Leadership Potential

Your key people can be spotted when important decisions are being made, because they're the ones explaining what needs to be done.
Determine how your potential leaders relate to the rest of your people; the people with the greatest potential won't have burned too many bridges.
A potential leader who obeys God is in a much better position to succeed than one who ignores God's will for his life.
Your potential leaders must have established a foundation of trust with others.
A potential leader is the one who would be able to mentally sustain your organization's vision if you quit thinking for the next month.
Potential leaders come to you to offer help more often than you go to them to give guidance.
True leadership requires serving others full time; potential leaders are ready and willing to do so.
Potential leaders make themselves valuable because they see and seize opportunities to better the organization—regardless of the nature or size of the task.
Though loyalty does not make a leader, disloyalty prevents a person from becoming one.

Success

Reaching the top is a monumental achievement, but remaining there may be the most spectacular feat of all.
The biggest detriment to tomorrow's success is today's success.
Passion creates energy and magnetically pulls co-workers and customers into a shared vision, and it is exceptionally strong when linked with a leader's values.
Leaders don't rise to the pinnacle of success without developing the right set of attitudes and habits; they make every day a masterpiece.
The best leaders are humble enough to realize their victories depend upon their people.

Teamwork

Teams make you better than you are, multiply your value, enable you to do what you do best, allow you to help others do their best, give you more time, provide you with companionship, help you fulfill the desires of your heart and compound your vision and effort.
Transmit your vision emotionally by gaining credibility, demonstrating passion, establishing relationships and communicating a felt need. Transmit it logically by confronting reality, formulating strategy, accepting responsibility, celebrating victory and learning from defeat.
Values hold the team together, provide stability for the team to grow upon, measure the team's performance, give direction and guidance and attract like-minded people.
Coming together is a beginning, and staying together is progress, but only when teams sweat together do they find success.
The Wrong Person in the Wrong Place = Regression. The Wrong Person in the Right Place = Frustration. The Right Person in the Wrong Place = Confusion. The Right Person in the Right Place = Progression. The Right People in the Right Places = Multiplication.
An organization's structure does not cause growth, but it does control the rate and size of your growth.
Talented performers flock to the best and brightest leaders, and these leaders in turn lift the lids off their people and uncork the latent talent inside of them.
The best way to serve the individuals on the team is to see that the whole team wins.

Time Management

Although it's admirable to be ambitious and hard-working, it's more desirable to be smart-working.
Though it's tempting—especially if you're a people pleaser—you have to learn to discern what wheels really need grease, what ones can be greased by others and what ones will squeak no matter how much oil they have on them.
The key to becoming a more efficient leader isn't checking off all the items on your to-do list each day. It's in forming the habit of prioritizing your time so that you are accomplishing your most important goals in an efficient manner.

Timing

The timing of your decision is just as important as the decision you make.
To establish appropriate timing for a decision, first discern the connection between the needs around you and the calling within you.
When assessing the ramifications for decisions, leaders must take into account the repercussions of failure.
Plain common sense can be the best deterrent to far-fetched opportunities.
All too often, would-be decision-makers take too much time collecting, analyzing and reanalyzing information, hoping for that one last convincing detail that will dictate the correct choice.
Consider if the passage of time shrinks available options or creates new ones.

http://www.sermoncentral.com/articleb.asp?article=John-Maxwell-94-Leadership-Quotes&ac=true

New Year Stuff:

2010-01-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

New Year Random Thoughts:

Started a Facebook edition of Biggest Loser just to keep in sync with the TV show that starts tonight. Week 1 ended today which is in sync with the show. I wish the show would had started one week later so we didn't have the New Years eating and drinking to worry about. Week 1 lost 1.2 pounds. I was really pulling for 3 and think I really could have done that. No excuses as we go forward.

I have not been self employed long enough to avoid suprises, but I was literally confused with tax rates I pay each time I process payroll. I guess on January 1st the rates start all over. More specifically my contribution to Unemployment Tax resets until each employee has reached $7,000 in taxable wages. So until about March that tax will go away. Just a nice suprise of about $500 in taxes I'm paying in each of the 1st 3 months of the year. I'll remember this next year!

I think 2009 was a year most of us will remember. A lot of the negatives ended up being positive in the end. But it was a challenging year and we made it. I think 2010 will be better. I hope for the sake of my employees they make more money as it'll help us make more money as well :)

I don't have many New Years Resolutions or really official things put together. Some things I hope will happen in 2010 is to make this the year that I finally get back to the shape I need to be in. 190 lbs would be a target I hope to hit sometime this year. We would like to not borrow any money and pay everything in cash. That said, hopefully we will be able to save some money this year to build a healthy reserve fund of what a self-employed person may need.

I'll have to look at some blog posts from either New Years of 2009 or 2008... but I remember already saying that I couldn't wait for the next year. But I'll say it again... I can't wait until 2011!

Some Good Stuff

2009-12-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

Come accross some new music that I've really enjoyed. If I can only get my guitar out of the case to learn these as I've heard them so many times.

Love Came Down:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RBr_BoEoQg

Burning Ones:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pesNP_-qsE

Tear Down the Walls
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJNYXzzfjvQ

All I Need Is You
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-UDWk6e_aE

5th Annual Heater War:

2009-11-18T11:27:00.000-08:00

Some Facts about the 5th Annual Heather War.

This year it ended on November 12th.
Last year it ended on October 31st.

November Bill just came in the mail and shows:

This year we used 37 Therms or 1.2 per day.
Last year we used 43 Therms or 1.3 per day.

This year our bill was $41.78
Last year our bill was $54.03

We had a net savings of $12.25 over last year.
PG&E says that we had a savings of $6 because of lower gas rates from last year.

The Best Explanation for Hillsong United I-Heart Film

2009-11-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

We attended the Hillsong United Iheart Film. It was 2 hours, a lot of good themes and stories but we left trying to put the pieces together. I came accross a web-site that did a review and gave the best explanation in helping to put the pieces together. This is for those that went with us and also those that missed a long but great film.

www.dennarr.wordpress.com/2009/11/05/hillsong_movie/

Wait and See

2009-11-09T18:19:00.000-08:00

End of the Year...

The baby will be here soon. I think I'm getting more excited by the day as the anticipation of what we are going to have is building. Most people want us to have a boy and I can honestly say I'll be really happy with whatever we have. 58% of me hopes for a girl because I think it'll be easier for the long-term. We already have girl clothes, girl rooms and understand the girl responsibilities around here. If we have a boy, it might be like having the 1st one all over again and just leave us really confused.

The baby pushed us to meet our end of the year goals faster for Farmers. I think we have 90% of the job done to qualify for Championship. Last year at this point, we were probably about 65% of the way done. So I think we are ahead of schedule with some stuff to clean house with next week as we put a finish to the year. The baby has probably helped those goals.

The new baby has done lots of things for our family. It also means a long break from the worship team. I'm honestly not really excited about a long-term break and feel we had a lot of energy and momentum. For the family, this will probably be a good thing. This is my chance to sit back and let others lead and see what God will do. Wait and See...

I think work has caused a lot of stress for me between September and October. I took on some new policies with 2 other agents retiring and always go through the period of trying to salvage everything we can and still wondering what will be left in the end. The service work is challenging as I really expect 110% perfection and when I get stressed, I know staff does as well. With all the changes with work, the new baby, the end of the year goals, and another big challenge that we have been dealing with since April and hoping for closure... I'd say this was the most difficult 60 days I went through since my time in the Army. Things should really calm down in the work-place assuming that we don't have any huge problems as we close out the year. We have made it through the trials... I'm at a wait and see approach to see if the calm to the storm happens.

We've been attending The Stirring for the past 2 weeks for church in the evening. I've always wanted to check it out and get a fresh look at music and watch the how other worship teams lead others. I wanted to see the culture of other congregations. How does technology work at a church in driving people to connect with God. My fear is that I can get in a routine of being stagnent and used to routine. I feel refreshed and learned so much in the past few weeks about our marriage by the teachings. It has been great for the kids as they get 2 solid hours of Kids Church in the evening while Mom and Dad get a chance to connect with God. We used to attend evening services growing up, maybe we have found something spiritually that can help us get away from routine as we are searching for God.

I'm not really sure what the future holds for us, but I feel I'm at a place as I feel relaxed as we close out the year. I have the wait and see approach as 2010 is still the unknown as I'm not sure what it looks like yet. It is a 5,000 piece puzzle that is still being put together... but soon we might see the picture soon.

Maybe some things are "wait and see" but other things.... we have started to see.

Bring It On!

2009-09-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Bring It On Smith's! This year is the 5th annual heater war... you already mentally lost because you are so protective of your son that you have to keep him warm. Let me remind you that when you lost last year, it was because you went out trick or treating on Halloween in the cold rain... you went home and couldn't stand it any longer. Let me remind you that the score is 2-2... we have been dreaming of this for an entire year of how we will be one ahead of you for an entire year. Bring It Smiths's... but you can't!

Bring It On end of the year goals! We have you already beat. We know how we will finish this year as we qualify for Championship for our 4th year in a row for Farmers Insurance. We will sneak up on you from behind and come to you as the biggest suprise. You will say, "didn't see that". So Bring It Goals! We will conquer you!

Bring It On Biggest Loser! We are taking you down. Hard work has not been enough. 12 weeks of work doesn't finish the job. So now I work at this with other people surrounding me to help! I have you this time as I'm working hard to eat and live right. You are going down because I'm going down! So Bring It Biggest Loser, cause I'm throwing everything back at you harder!

Bring It SF Giants! No really... Bring It! Maybe it wasn't this year... but next year... Bring It! You are going to shine next year. Next Year Bring It... I'm already excited for you!

My New Garmin

2009-08-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

My friend Tim Mapes purchased a Garmin watch for his wife last week. It is a GPS watch that tracks time, distance, calories burned, elevation.... just tons of stuff. It got me thinking as I was looking at a Nike Shoe option that connects to an IPod for GPS. But that would have required me to purchase the shoe and gadgets and an IPod and switch phone service.

The Garmin 305 was regular priced for $299 at Best Buy and on sale for $150. I had about $70 in credits to use at Best Buy, so we drove to Chico to pick it up as the Redding store didn't have it. Totall Excited!

So far I've taken it out to the McConnell Foundation Trail and ran the advertised largest trail at 2.25 miles. The Garmin on 3 occassions has mapped it out to 2.16 miles. The smaller trail advertised at .75 miles comes in at .70 miles.

I did the Clover Trail as well with no official distance but rumored to be 1.50 miles. The Garmin watch suggests 1.44 miles.

It has been interesting uploading all the runs to the computer using the Garmin software. I can see all the elevation changes with the average pace times. I can see my pace times flucuating through climbs. McConnell Foundation has elevation difference of over 50 feet from the highest points to the lowest points.

I'm hoping to get out to the River Trail advertised at 5.7 miles and track that out with distance and elevations and then go to a 1/4 mile track to test out the accuracy. I can't see it being wrong as it tracks my movements with each foot.

What a cool toy to have... a great tool to help with training and getting back in fit. I would have never run streets before as I didn't know the distance... but now the Garmin watch can help me run anywhere.

StrengthsQuest.com Personality Test Results

2009-08-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

I took an almost 200 question test... maybe the best I've ever done as I felt the questions were so detailed. So this is who I am in 5 words below. I think I want to have all my staff at the office do this test as well.

Strategic:

The Strategic theme enables you to sort through the clutter and find the best route. It is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking, a special perspective on the world at large. This perspective allows you to see patterns where others simply see complexity. Mindful of these patterns, you play out alternative scenarios, always asking, “What if this happened? Okay, well what if this happened?” This recurring question helps you see around the next corner. There you can evaluate accurately the potential obstacles. Guided by where you see each path leading, you start to make selections. You discard the paths that lead nowhere. You discard the paths that lead straight into resistance. You discard the paths that lead into a fog of confusion. You cull and make selections until you arrive at the chosen path—your strategy. Armed with your strategy, you strike forward. This is your Strategic theme at work: “What if?” Select. Strike.

Competition

Competition is rooted in comparison. When you look at the world, you are instinctively aware of other people’s performance. Their performance is the ultimate yardstick. No matter how hard you tried, no matter how worthy your intentions, if you reached your goal but did not outperform your peers, the achievement feels hollow. Like all competitors, you need other people. You need to compare. If you can compare, you can compete, and if you can compete, you can win. And when you win, there is no feeling quite like it. You like measurement because it facilitates comparisons. You like other competitors because they invigorate you. You like contests because they must produce a winner. You particularly like contests where you know you have the inside track to be the winner. Although you are gracious to your fellow competitors and even stoic in defeat, you don’t compete for the fun of competing. You compete to win. Over time you will come to avoid contests where winning seems unlikely.

Maximizer

Excellence, not average, is your measure. Taking something from below average to slightly above average takes a great deal of effort and in your opinion is not very rewarding. Transforming something strong into something superb takes just as much effort but is much more thrilling. Strengths, whether yours or someone else’s, fascinate you. Like a diver after pearls, you search them out, watching for the telltale signs of a strength. A glimpse of untutored excellence, rapid learning, a skill mastered without recourse to steps—all these are clues that a strength may be in play. And having found a strength, you feel compelled to nurture it, refine it, and stretch it toward excellence. You polish the pearl until it shines. This natural sorting of strengths means that others see you as discriminating. You choose to spend time with people who appreciate your particular strengths. Likewise, you are attracted to others who seem to have found and cultivated their own strengths. You tend to avoid those who want to fix you and make you well rounded. You don’t want to spend your life bemoaning what you lack. Rather, you want to capitalize on the gifts with which you are blessed. It’s more fun. It’s more productive. And, counterintuitively, it is more demanding.

Adaptability

You live in the moment. You don’t see the future as a fixed destination. Instead, you see it as a place that you create out of the choices that you make right now. And so you discover your future one choice at a time. This doesn’t mean that you don’t have plans. You probably do. But this theme of Adaptability does enable you to respond willingly to the demands of the moment even if they pull you away from your plans. Unlike some, you don’t resent sudden requests or unforeseen detours. You expect them. They are inevitable. Indeed, on some level you actually look forward to them. You are, at heart, a very flexible person who can stay productive when the demands of work are pulling you in many different directions at once.

Significance

You want to be very significant in the eyes of other people. In the truest sense of the word you want to be recognized. You want to be heard. You want to stand out. You want to be known. In particular, you want to be known and appreciated for the unique strengths you bring. You feel a need to be admired as credible, professional, and successful. Likewise, you want to associate with others who are credible, professional, and successful. And if they aren’t, you will push them to achieve until they are. Or you will move on. An independent spirit, you want your work to be a way of life rather than a job, and in that work you want to be given free rein, the leeway to do things your way. Your yearnings feel intense to you, and you honor those yearnings. And so your life is filled with goals, achievements, or qualifications that you crave. Whatever your focus—and each person is distinct—your Significance theme will keep pulling you upward, away from the mediocre toward the exceptional. It is the theme that keeps you reaching.

The Story...

2009-08-15T09:52:00.000-07:00

So I had my vasectomy on Wednesday... finally got it done. But let me tell you the story of what lead up to it as it was going to be a big suprise.

I made a decision that I was going to start the process to get it done. My idea was that I would go to the initial appointment and get the surgery done and not tell Jamie until it was completed and just walk inside the house to tell her the big suprise. The cool thing about this is that it would have shown that I did this on my own without Jamie telling me to do it. Everyone sort of thought I would have to be forced into it or maybe I would never get it done. Time to stand up and show everyone what I'm about.

July 27th - Health Application sent in with Blue Shield. Should take 2-3 days for approval. Had to delete e-mails from Blue Shield so Jamie wouldn't wonder why I was applying.

July 28th - Called doctor's office to schedule 1st appointment. Gave strict instructions for them to call me at work for appointment reminder. Appointment is August 5th at about 2:00 PM.

July 30th - Scheduled fake appointments in my calendar for next week around that time outside the office with customers. Jamie has access to my calendar at home as the computer at the office are networked at home.

August 3rd - Got the e-mail from Blue Shield that my application was approved. Had to delete that e-mail as well.

August 4th - The doctor's office called at HOME (1:00 PM) for appointment reminder and left a voice-mail. This could totally be a disastor to my plan as Jamie found out. I had to explain to her that I was looking into the surgery to strictly find out the cost of the procedure. I had to explain that "I was shocked there was an appointment as I was supposed to come in the office with my insurance information so they could tell me the cost." I was a little convinved that she bought the story. Either way, I didn't confess.

(5:30 PM) we are cooking dinner in kitchen and they call AGAIN and Jamie picks up the phone and they ask for me.... she hands me the phone. They remind me of the appointment again, but I played it off like they were finally calling me back with the estimated $$$ amount. I hung up the phone and said... "Wow, about $900! I guess we know now and maybe we'll have to plan for 2010." This was my cover-up plan so I could admit I went to the office to give them my insurance information, but to make her believe that there was really not an appointment. She totally bought the story as she is now talking about getting her tubes tied at delivery of the baby in November. Sweet!

August 5th - Went to my fake appointment with a customer.... but it was the presentation day at the doctor's office. It was pure education and I learned a lot. I'm not so sure the doctor really needed to touch himself in the "man area" so much. He gave strict instructions that a complete shave would be required before the procedure and that I had to have a driver. I know I can't let Jamie drive as that would ruin the suprise... so I decided that I'm tough enough to drive. Don't tell the Dr. I set the appointment for the procedure for August 12th and gave instructions for them to call me at work for the reminder. I found out that the reason they previously called us at home is because the "master phone number" was the home. I convinced the front desk person to change the master phone number to my office for the reminder. I still doubt this will solve the problem. My plan is to unplug the phone lines on Tuesday in case they call. Jamie would not know what the problem is... but I would assure her I'd fix the problem after work :)

August 11th - This is the day of the possible appointment reminder at the house. Jamie tells me how sick Ally is and she is going to take her to the ER to get her checked out. I find out around lunch time that she is going to be at the hospital for a while...1 to 3 days. This sort of messes up my appointment for tomorrow and I have to decide if I'm doing it. At this point... only 2 people knew about my procedure...Matt Kibler at the office as he was helping me strategize all this out. I had to tell my mom to explain some scheduling conflicts as to why it would be so difficult for us to come down and visit with my sister and her kids in town. So I had to tell Jamie's mom to see if Steve could continue to watch the kids so I could get this done. She gave 200% approval and was full of support. By the way... there was not an appointment reminder at the house or at the office... weird.

August 12th - Procedure is at 4:00 PM. With Jamie stuck at the hospital... Walking in the house after it was done was not going to be the suprise I wanted. So I told her what was going on around 10:30 AM. I think this was the biggest shock to her and the best suprise in the world. She said there was nothing better than this. She was glowing for about an hour.

That's the story... it didn't turn out the way I hoped... but still an awesome cover-up operation.

Another Start

2009-08-03T07:33:00.001-07:00

Since April I have not been really happy with my progress in staying fit. I have not been working out and eating well. We have played the Biggest Loser games and those worked really well, but I'm not thinking there is anyone out there that really wants to give it another round. So it comes down to being all about me at this point as I'm the one that has to make it happen.

I got back to the gym for the 1st time in a long time. I'm hoping to make it a habit and have a goal of going each day. I refuse to eat greasy fast food as it is not good for me. This is all going back to the fundamentals of doing what is right to feel right.

There might be some others that want to join me but this has to come down to my own decisions. So here is to another start.

Sunday Thoughts... Sunday Points

2009-07-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

The Blog Olympics ends soon... time to share some thoughts and earn some points.

I'll be honest as I was a bit nervous moving to the stage with worship team. We practiced for about 3.5 hours yesterday to prepare for the move and work out some sound issues and do some extended practice. The sound quality at least from what we hear on the stage has improved a ton. We get a nice rich sound without some of the echos. We've added DJ on electric guitar... wow he is amazing. We spent some time at Vince and Marissa's for a worship BBQ time. It was a blast as they had a pool and we got the crazy and fun sides out of us. Great Bonding time. It has been a many year movement to get to the place that we are as a worship team. We have so much depth, talent and I'm having the most fun yet with all the worship teams I've been on.

Random thought... but I smashed Emily's finger in the car door as we left water-works tonight. Jamie's 1st reaction was to hug her... my 1st reaction is to access the situation... then hug. I guess our priorities are different and probably something gender related.

We have Tiger Woods 2010 on the XBOX. As I'm hear typing, I just heard Jamie give a huge sigh of breath as she missed a tough shot. This game is much more challenging from 2006 version.

I'm up to something of a surprise that Jamie has no clue of. Can't tell her... I hope that I can keep the secret until I'm finished.

Hillsong United Conference is August 21st and 22nd. We are going for sure... I've spoken with some others that think they are going as well. We have to purchase our tickets this week for the better pricing. I seriously can't wait!

(69 points)

It's Friday

2009-07-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

What does It's Friday mean? I see that a lot on facebook. I'm assuming it is a positive thing as people don't back up that statement. In some ways in can have some hidden meanings. It is Friday, so I figured I'd back it up with what goes on in my head on Friday.

1. It means I have to be up at about 6:30 AM to make it to my 7:00 AM business group meeting. Generally, it means that I don't get to sleep in for about 45 of the 52 weeks in the year.
2. Sort of turning into a tradition... but it also means that I package the breakfast at Country Kitchen up for Jamie. I generally am never so hungry on Friday mornings... her gain.
3. Sometimes Friday can mean... can't wait until Monday as we know there are so many things to be done and places to go that the weekend doesn't exactly mean relaxation. This is one of those weekends that we have a lot going on.
4. On occassions, it can mean that all our children spend the night at Jamie's parents house. It is all or nothing... I hope they get used to 4 :)
5. Sometimes "It's Friday" has no meaning as there is nothing planned, nothing to do, nothing... nothing... nothing. But it is really cool to still say "It's Friday".

(59 pts)

Observations Tonight

2009-07-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

Some things I've noticed at home tonight...

1. There is skin all over our hard wood floors.
2. Fresh Tuna cooked on the grill tastes like steak. We've never had that before.
3. With the Giants playing at 10:00 AM this morning and nothing new on TV... what do we do?
4. Jamie can't hear in the ears well. So I'm practicing like we are 90 years old and doing a lot of shouting.
5. When the girls hurt themselves... a good distraction to the pain is to offer to throw them in the air as they totally love that.

(53 points)

I'm not sure...

2009-07-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

Here are a list of things that I have not developed an opinion of yet if I Like or Hate:

1. Customer says, "One more quick question as I don't want to take up more of your time".
It helps me reinforce that they can take up as much time as they like and I enjoy having them at the office... but I also wonder if they think that I would rather they leave as they are wasting my time. This statement customers make sometimes helps us reinforce our love for them.

2. Barry Zito pitching
He can be really bad and really good. Today he is pitching to try and end a 3 game losing streak. What Zito do we get today?

3. Diet Dr. Pepper or Coffee
Last 3 days have had a soda and coffee in front of me at the desk... I go back and forth with both options available at any time

4. Winter or Summer
Our Redding climate is much different than the Bay Area climate that I grew up with. I believe that summer and winter can both be terrible... just can't pick which season I love or hate the most.

5. Tiger Wood Golf 2010 - XBOX 360
I can't develop an opinion on this because I have not had a chance to play it! I keep trying to rent it each time I'm at Blockbuster but it is never available. It costs about $59 brand new... but it looks so much fun.

(43 pts)

How to break the curse...

2009-07-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Ok, the Rally Cake didn't work last night to break the losing streak of the SF Giants. I have a couple thoughts about it. It was store bought which means it doesn't have as much power as opposed to made at home. The writing on the cake was not very legible as the frosting was not comming out well. We have 3/4 of a sheet cake at home.... if we cook a cake at home... to break the curse of the Giants losing streak, what shall we do with the rest of the sheet cake from last night?

We got to celebrate Johnny's birthday last night at Rivers, go to Cold Stone, then end up at the house doing American Idol. It was a packed event night! I think we got baptised in the "circle of trust".

Giants start at 10:00 AM today... Zito on the mound... not looking good!

(36 pts)

Rally Cake

2009-07-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

I think I've told this story before but it must be told again. We started a thing called a "Rally Cake" for the SF Giants. If the Giants have lost 2 or more games in a row... it requires the Rally Cake to break the streak and get a win. It is a simple process...

1. It can be store bought but more effective if made at home.
2. It must have writing on the top of the cake and more effective if it includes 4 letter words about the other team.
3. The cake must be served before the 1st pitch of the game.

This year the Rally Cake is 3-0 for the year. Tonight, the Giants really need one! Since we have a good pitcher for us tonight, we are having rally cake to make it 4-0 for the year. If anyone would like to see the rally cake, must be at the house by 3:50 PM.

(23 pts)

Boooom Roasted!

2009-07-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

Matt called in sick today at the office. So I brought in Starbucks for everyone during lunch today. Boooom... Roasted Matt!

* 13 pts

Mike and Jamie + ???

2009-07-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

I already love the Blog Olympics! I hope this year turns out to be better than last year.

So, we got our AFLAC claim check from Jamie's broken toe. It cost us about $90 for the visit to the doctor's office and we got about $250. I finally turned in the claim paper-work for Ally when she spent 3 days in the ER. I'm guessing that we will get $1,500 to $3,000 for that... but we'll see. It made me think that in about 16 weeks, we'll get paid a huge check again for Jamie's stay while giving birth to our 4th. It made me think even more... we are making money having kids... why ever stop. Maybe we'll get a reality tv show? Making money having babies... totally crazy!

I walked outside with hope this morning. It didn't feel so hot. I believe that today will only get to the high 80's based on my own weather forcast. My claim sounds stupid... but weather people are wrong all the time... lets just hope that I'm the correct weather man today.

Softball is over! This was the most brutal experience I have ever had as we got placed in a co-ed top division. Our team should have been placed in a rookie division. Getting beat 25-2 on average each week was no fun. Big League Dreams felt so bad for us that they are giving us the next season for free. We are already trying to get our next team organized... still waiting to hear from a few more people. If you are reading Ken and Cody... let me know.

Trader Joe's has lived beyond the expectations that the media and people of Redding made it sound like. I could seriously live on Trader Joe's food and be happy with nothing else. And... it is so fun for the girls as they get their own mini-shopping carts. Brilliant Marketing!

That's it for now.... good luck with the Blog Olympics! My total is now 5 pts.

Blog Olympics

2009-07-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

So I'm thinking we start the Blog Olympics tomorrow Wednesday at 12:01 AM and Ends on Sunday at 11:59 PM. The Blog Olympics are designed to increase activity with postings and comments. Each time you do a post it will = 5 pts. Each time you make a comment on another persons Blog it will = 1 pt. You keep track of your points on your own.

Facebook is fun... but blogs are really cool. Anyone can play and I wish everyone Good Luck!

Ping Pong

2009-07-11T15:01:00.000-07:00

Found a new love for the game Ping Pong... especially when I play Joel. We played 9 rounds today and I took all of them. I had to post this because I know this will eat him up until we get a chance to play again and of course I'll win every match again.

Thinking Backwards....

2009-07-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

Long time since my last post... so I need to think backwards of the things we have done and the highlights...

July 5th - Got the garage and shed totally cleaned out and organized. I hate messy garages and like mine to look neat and organized. I'm a neat freak when it comes to garages.

July 4th - Built the Disney play-ground in the backyard. It is a 3-6 hour kit that took 10 hours with 3 visits to Home Depot for missing parts or needed tools. We were hoping to have this done by the time people showed up at 5 for a get together... It was not done and I felt bad as people helped out a ton to get it finished. Thanks for all the help. At about 9:30 PM, there was a lot of illegal fire-works going off in our back-yard. I still have yet to find the people responsible :)

July 3rd - We got all our patio furniture set-up and started unpacking things. Got my lawn mower set-up. My lawn mower is awesome as it is electric and cordless! It works just as good if not better than my old gas mower... and I'm going green and saving our planet :) Actually it is just really nice not having to buy gas and keep it in storage... it starts up just like turning a key... super easy.

July 2nd - Recovering from vacation... did some unpacking. Was going to Mow with new mower today but the 1st charge takes 17 hours. After that... only requires 15 minutes of charging. The Redding heat is totally crazy! Hard to adjust from our 65 to 70 degree weather in Monterey.

July 1st - Driving Back from Monterey at the close of the Farmers Toppers Club. Had an awesome time visiting with our fellow South Dakota Farmers Agent Friends! We really love hanging with their family! Kids need to be home as they are crazy for space to run around.

June 30th - Last full day in Monterey for Farmers Convention. Free Time day until awards night. Today we went to the Monterey Aquarium and had lunch by the pier. Took the kids swimming in the afternoon.

June 29th - Jamie went to do some laundry today in the morning while I went to the morning and afternoon classes for the Farmers Toppers Club. We had some free time in the afternoon before Farmers Dinner. Tonight we had some great comedy as they brought in "Comedy Sportz". I've seen this group in San Jose growing up... this was a real treat.

June 28th - Today in Monterey we went to Bubba Gumps for lunch and later the beach! It was a blast today. Kids have been so well behaved today and it is real fun watching them have fun.

June 27th - We left Disneyland today and started our trip to Monterey for Farmers Toppers Club. What could have been a 4.5 hour journey ended up taking 6 hours. Totally love GPS on the car! Will never buy a car again without it!

June 26th - Last day in Disneyland. We went from about 9:00 AM until 11:30 PM. Ally got to go on Splash Mountain for the 1st time... we did this 5 times today. Ally puts up her hands in the air the entire time going down! Emily ducks her head and holds on for her life. Also took Ally on Thunder Mountain for the 1st time... again hands up the entire time... Emily does as well. It is so nice that Ally grew an inch from March so she can ride more rides.

June 25th - 1st Full Day at Disneyland. Girls are tired and worn out! Using our FREE Season passes. Got to hang with my sister Tricia, Brian and kids. We enjoyed pizza together. I felt bad as our kids were so worn out... it was tough to hang out late. Maybe we'll get to see them in late July or early August when they come up to the parents.

June 24th - Leaving Redding for Disneyland. GPS estimates 8 hours... it was right on with about 4 stops. We got to go to Disneyland tonight for about 4 hours after checking in the hotel.

June 23rd - Packing and Paying Bills before our big trip! Finishing Loose Ends Today such as leaving behind checks for payroll while I'm gone.

June 22nd - Softball tonight... we got killed again. Our co-ed team was put in the best league for some strange reason. It is still a lot of fun! Big League Dreams feels bad do they are waiving the fees for next season as we are getting killed out there!

June 21st - Jamie helped me work the side-yard today... she is a work-horse! We pulled out 2 truck loads of dirt out of the side yard and created a drain ditch. Thanks for all your help sweety!

June 20th - Put down the new lawn. I needed about 600 sq ft... Home Depot had about 250 sq ft.... then went to Lowes... they only had about 50 sq ft.... Home Depot in Red Bluff had about 350... purchase what I needed ans was still short by 50 sq ft. Had to drive all the way back to Red Bluff Home Depot to take everything they had left! We cleaned out the stores and got everything we needed.

Wednesday Summary

2009-06-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

The fair opens today and the kids get in for free! Even better, the Giants have an afternoon game today so I won't miss the game tonight!

I've heard that they have the car demolition derby on Sunday at the fair... that would be really cool to see. I might have to wear Wranglers, Boots and start a chewing habit. I think our family would also have to show up in an old truck with a gun rack. Even better, we would dress all our girls up as cow girls!

We are heading for L.A. next Wednesday to use our free Disneyland season passes and see my sister and family. We'll head to Monterrey after that for the Farmers Insurance Toppers Club. Toppers is a downsized event from Championship in May.... but still a great award to win. The Giants do come back in town for the July 4th weekend... there might be a game in the future.

The backyard should be done by the close of this weekend. I made a lot of progress yesterday with finishing the brick wall around the patio, did some plumbing work to prepare the sprinkler line. I've got the pad for the shed just about done and then ready to build. I'll need to bring in about 3 to 5 truck loads of top soil. I'm thinking of one more day of organized labor camp at my house to complete the job.

Matt Kibler has a final interview on June 22nd for the CHP. I know the location and time... anyone else want in on doing something? I'm sure anything we do for fun will improve his chances.

Softball... ugly season. For some reason they put our team in the highest Co-Ed league... we belong in the lowest level. I felt that our team could still be good enough to keep things close going into the game on Monday. The other team only had 9 players instead of 10 with 5 girls and 4 guys. They only played with 3 outfielders. We still lost 19-2. We only scored 2 runs! I also knew it was going to be bad when they put us on the largest field of the complex. 320 feet in the corners as opposed to 280 feet. 340 feet in Center as opposed to 300 feet. This had to be the worst game we have ever played.... we still managed to have fun.

Jamie proposed the idea that we start a small group. We have got a good response... we'll see what happens. Now that women's group is finally canceled, we can pull this off. :) I can't wait for the comments of hostility over that comment.

Labor Camp

2009-06-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

We've been working really hard on the back-yard with the help of a lot of people. Today my body feels like I've been working in a labor camp in North Korea. I'm trying to get the back-yard kid ready so that Jamie can send the kids out back to play.

So far we have moved over 30 truck loads of dirt out of the yard. Our back yard was basically a hill that went out about 4 feet high. The goal is to make the back yard flat. This ended up being 3 times as much dirt as I estimated that needed to come out of the yard.

My time line still has us on track to pour concrete this weekend. We need to pull out about 3-5 more truck loads of dirt and then get the forms set. Will also need to run some sprinkler and electrical line under the concrete forms so I can work with those after we pour the concrete. We are in Phase 3 of 5. After this phase is done, we will be about 75% done with the project as Phase 4 and 5 is the easy stuff.

This week is where my body is saying that any effort that Joel and the youth group do this week will be awesome to keep us on time-line and prevent my body from breaking. We'll see what they can get done tomorrow... Go team!

Jamie has some really good photos she has been taking with the progress.... I'll see if I can get her to post them later.

I can't wait until next year...

2009-06-03T20:38:00.001-07:00

I got invited to the best birthday party ever! Actually Emily got invited to Tessa's Birthday party and we got to go along. But it was awesome and I'll tell you why...

We got to go to Chucky Cheese and I wasted about 80 tokens on basketball playing against Jed. I figured out the game and feel that I'm now the best player in Redding with my high score of 57 points. I never thought there would be a day that I got sweaty at Chucky Cheese. It was such a blast that I really want to put together a basketball tournament at Chucky Cheese.

We earned over 1,000 tickets tonight. We ended up purchasing with our tickets 2 large bags of cotton candy, 2 huge suckers, 1 long string of red-rope. Basketball was earning about 25 tickets per token on average as the other games were averaging 3 tickets per token. If you can get good at basketball, then you'll steal the bank at Chucky Cheese.

Seriously, best party ever! I really hope I get invited next year to Tessa's birthday party!

Mid Week Report

2009-05-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

It is great to be back at work! We have some work to do this year for our goals... 7 more months of hard labor. The staff is complaining that I'm back because I keep it really cold in the office. Sometimes as low as 68 degrees. They liked it when it was 75 or even higher. My office is about 3+ degrees warmer than the rest of the office. They freeze because of the limited air that comes in my office. I've made a deal with them starting on June 1st. We need to average about 60 new business applications per month. If they keep pace with 2.7 policies written each day, they have control of the air but nothing higher than 73 degrees. Otherwise, they should plan to freeze!

The Giants seem to be back in the winning ways as we have won 2 in a row against the Braves. Our pitching is awesome this year but our offense is just terrible. If we win tonight, we'll sweep the Braves!

I got my bike back in operation and riding it a bunch now. I've put about 20 miles on it since Saturday. I'm riding down to Anderson on it today after work to meet Jamie for dinner at her parents house. That should be about 12 miles. Yikes!

We have a Fun Run scheduled this Saturday at 8:30 AM at the River Trail. I hope for at least 10 people. A large turn-out would be awesome is it would motivate everyone to keep a good pace and maybe focus on not letting the person get too far ahead. It was Matt, Jamie and Myself last time... surely we can get more than 3?

We need to start digging out my back-yard soon. We have about 15-20 yards of dirt to dig out. I'm trying to get the youth group out there to dig for Mexico money... we'll see if it happens this weekend. Our biggest obstacle... I need a few trucks. If I could line up 3 trucks... it would keep a solid flow going as while one is being loaded, another is being unloaded in a field, while the other is on the way back. I need to keep a constant circle of trucks going with probably about 5-8 people digging in the back-yard. I've got it figured out to get it done in one day.... just need about 12-15 people and 3 trucks.

I can't wait for school to get out for Emily. I feel the summer fever with her as I know she is itching for school to end. It will also mean that I don't have to drop her off at school at pick her up. Beyond that, I just know this will be a fun summer for all the kids and I can't wait to experience it with them.

Fun Times

2009-05-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

Well, we just got back from our 8 day trip with Farmers at Championship as we made our way to Palm Desert with a few quick stops to San Francisco and San Diego. Palm Desert was fun but it doesn't have the big city thrill. Weather was hot as expected. Next year it was announced that the Championship will be in San Diego from May 25th to the 29th which makes it perfect as it goes into Memorial Day Weekend. Lets hope the Giants play in San Diego, L.A. or Arizona around those times.

We'll be off to Monterey, CA for Toppers Club with Farmers at the end of June which runs from June 28th to July 1st. We'll be heading for Southern Califorrnia June 24th and hope to use our Disneyland free passes for 2 days and spend some time with my sister and family.

Our new softball team starts tonight. We merged with another new team as they are paying for sponsorship which is always a nice incentive. I always look forward to softball night. Our baseball season comes to a close as we start playoffs in a few weeks. Speaking of baseball... this Sunday is one of our very few 9:00 AM games that we have had. It is also at Big League Dreams which is always a treat to play at. What reasons can Joel give me to be at church this Sunday?

The Blog Olympics will start soon... maybe in a few weeks. Maybe a note to everyone to get your links all figured out on your blogs so that when the games start, everyone you want linked is figured out. I really look forward to this starting as maybe it'll get everyone jump-started again in writing. If I'm not linked on your blog, you probably won't be linked on mine :)

You'll Come

2009-05-12T19:20:00.000-07:00

Hillsong United
"You'll Come"
Hosea 6

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RmZFaruXhs

Bridge
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be open
Christ is revealed

Verse 2
I have decided, I have resolved
To wait upon You Lord
My rock and redeemer, shield and reward
I'll wait upon you Lord

Pre-Chorus
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as the dawn appears

Chorus:
You'll come
Let Your glory fall
As You respond to us
Spirit reign
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come

Verse 3
We are not shaken, we are not moved
We wait upon You Lord
Our mighty deliverer, triumph and truth
We wait upon You Lord

Pre-Chorus
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as the dawn appears

Chorus:
You'll come
Let Your glory fall
As You respond to us
Spirit reign
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come

Bridge:
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be open
Christ is revealed

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=35&chapter=6&version=31

1st Fun Run

2009-05-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

So we kick it off with a 5.7 mile jog or walk at the River Trail. We'll meet for a start at 8:45 AM. I've spoken with some... Who is going to make it?

I know Jamie mentioned that she is going to bring the kids and walk it fast... so she wanted me to make sure that other mom's know it would be cool to walk it with her.

Set-Up for Failure...

2009-05-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

So Jamie and her mom went shopping in Meford and left this morning at about 8:00 AM and probably won't be back until later in the evening. I said I would watch all 3 girls today as it would be nice for her to shop without the stress and distractions of the kids. She deserves a day alone. But I will say that I am set-up for failure when she gets home for the following reasons:

1. I'm watching 3 Girls alone (This alone could say it all but I'll go on)
2. I found out that Rylee needed a diaper change at about 12... the box does not have instructions on how to do it. So I am assuming that her diaper is an "all day diaper"?
3. Jamie spent 3 hours cleaning yesterday and the house looked PERFECT when she left. She asked that it stays PERFECT. I am so busted when she gets home.
4. I got Panda Express for lunch for the girls and brought it home. Amazing how much rice can get on the floor.
5. Lunch requires a bath... can't find socks for Rylee. Where does Jamie put those?
6. The Giants game is not on TV at 1:00... This is bad as I planned to watch the game and ignore the girls for 3 hours.
7. Jamie's mom is shopping as well... So I can't run to her for help or even drop them off at the house. I could with Steve, but with the 4th on the way, I can't risk that he gets stressed out watching 3 today.
8. I locked all 3 girls in the car (totally kidding, just wanted shock reaction)
9. It is raining outside.... how in the world do I take 3 kids shopping for the items Jamie wanted me to get today? There would not be any dry carts?

I might add more items as the day keeps going on... come back for more...

Odds and Ends...

2009-04-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

Kristen had an "Odds and Ends" posting... I followed her title as I can't think of only one topic to blog on.

1. I'm at home today sick as I have the "Swine Flu". This could be deadly, we'll see how I end up. The frustrating thing is that I have no voice at all. I have to whisper. This could be really good for softball as it may be a really quiet game tonight :) I still know you'll say at the end that you'll miss my chatter.

2. We got to go to the Third Day concert with the Dahlberg's. It was a total blast hanging out with them. We ate at Cool Hand Luke's before and went to Leatherby's after the concert. A total funny moment as we were having such a good time at the concert, a lady in front of us turned back and asked us to be quiet. How crazy is that? I think she was at the wrong concert.

3. Facebook vs Blog - I like them both. I think Face book is good for the little things and the Blog is good for explaining the bigger things. I really enjoy both of them.

4. Secrets are tough to keep in. They are really tough when you wonder what others will think when they find out. We've been able to tell some secrets recently... to be honest, it feels really good to have lots of support from others. Why keep any secrets?

5. I hit a double yesterday at our baseball game. I was called out for not stepping on 1st Base. I know I did step on the corner of the bag. Nothing I could do, but still irritating. It is so much easier to argue in softball for some reason.

6. I really love how worship team is coming together. The things we have been working really hard on are sounding so good. When do we bring out the stage lights and fog machines?

Concert in Review

2009-04-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

Thursday we got a chance to go down with the Dahlberg's, Kibler's and Josh to the Hillsong United Concert. We had a few bumpy delays in the morning with logistics as Ally was not feeling well, but God allowed us to make it.

Going down was fun and made the 2.25 hr trip a breeze. We had so much fun in the car. I would say that Jamie and I even enjoyed our lunch which is a funny story for later.

The concert tops to be about the best concert I have been to. What made this concert exciting was being in the room with 4,000 people who are pumped up for God. There was so much excitement and energy. Hillsong United has songs that bring a sense of rock music, but being worship from the start to the end.

I think some of my favorite moments was singing to Hosanna and the Bridge to "The Stand". There were some times I thought to myself, I hope heaven is like this as we never got tired of singing. The production team did an amazing job with the lighting and other effects, I can't imagine the things that God has in store for us when we meet Him in heaven.

If I didn't have kids or so much going on in my life, I think I would have totally dove with the band to the Bakersfield show and then LA, Irvine and San Diego. I would say that my 1st experience of Hillsong United didn't really give me enough as we wanted more.

The pastor got to preach and left me with some thoughts. As Christians, we sometimes look at the menu but later focusing on what everyone else has that we want. God has blessed each of us with talents and gifts that we need to use what He has given us to the best and stop looking around hoping to be something that we are not.

I also came away with the thought process through my own thinking that, "Worship is something that can't be forced". This is something that has to be a choice. When we look at our own church, we have to use what we have and keep getting better. But our church won't evolve into something that is not on the menu overnight. We can keep pushing for better things, but it is something that if we force, it won't work.

There is a movement of Passion working in us right now. I believe that the energy we drove back to Redding with is going to start a movement of something. I feel like God has some great things in store for us and will use us in incredible ways. I pray each day that we would be people of Passion. That we would be people that have hearts that cry out to God. That we would be people that have a love so deep for God that it would fill our church so that we can shine through this city.

Don't miss the next concert with us when Hillsong United comes back as there is a movement that you can't miss out on!

Hillsong United or Bust...

2009-04-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

So we had a group so far of 7 that were going to the Hillsong United Concert in Sacramento this Thursday. We delayed buying the tickets because of all the kids from two families in the hospital over the past 2 weeks. I was the main contact to purchase the tickets, but we made a stupid delay not knowing if others had purchased their own tickets. Never thought this concert would sell out or have problems getting tickets.

Well.... it is sold out now. Not only this show, but all of the cities in the North American tour are sold out. I've been checking with scalpers and all my ticket contacts. There is nothing out there, probably because Christians know they go to Hell if they scalp tickets for a worship event :)

I have so far been able to secure 2 tickets for Sacramento and 4 for the Bakersfield show with two contacts, but have not yet paid for them. I spoke with the Box Office and they said to check back often as the concert promoters often release tickets days before the concert and even the morning of the concert. The box office said there is a strong chance that they will release some more tickets, we just need to keep checking in and maybe have someone call every hour.

If I even got the 4 Bakersfield Tickets, who could make that trip? Stephanie Dahlberg mentioned that if we can't get tickets together, maybe we get a huge group to head to Chico for dinner or something like that.

Lets hope we can get some tickets still... does anyone want to help call every 30 or 60 minutes to the box office with me?

My SF Giants Experience

2009-04-10T10:25:00.000-07:00

Tim Mapes calls me and lets me know that he is taking an entire week of vacation and we must go to a Giants game. We had been planning this for about 3 years and never been able to make it happen.

Our plan was to go to Opening Day on Tuesday. Never been before, so we decided to go big. We looked at weather report as we didn't want to get tickets to early as it could rain that day. Monday we decide to not go as weather looks really bad, but we'll look at dates later in the week. Opening Day turned out to have awesome weather and we decided we shouldn't listen to weather reports. It actually poured in the morning and the sun came out at 11:00 in time for a perfect start at 1:15.

Our next option was to go to the game on Wed with a 7:15 start or Thursday with a 4:05 start. I liked the Thursday option so we could still get home early. So we chose Thursday game and we purchased tickets on Tuesday night. On Wednesday morning, we look at the weather report and see 90% chance of rain for Thursday and make a quick decision to go to the Wed night game. We went and purchased tickets and sold the tickets for Thursday on the internet.

The game was a blast! It was awesome getting to hang out with our local celebrity Tim Mapes from KRCR Channel 7 News. We had great seats and got to catch up with some old times. I can already say that I can't wait to go again and bring Jamie down with the kids. I have some serious Baseball Fever and hope as our team seems to be good this year.

On a side note, the weather turned out to be awesome for Thursday and we could have indeed gone to that game as opposed to Wed and getting home at 2:00 AM. We let weather determine our schedule and all 3 days turned out to be excellent.

Good Times and Positive Energy

2009-04-07T19:34:00.000-07:00

I try to surround myself around Positive Energy as it really lifts me up. We've had a fun line around the office and home as we focus on being positive in everything we say and do. I'm going off Joel's blog today as it really spoke everything we've been focusing on... "Positive Thoughts". Joel, you brought me HIGHER today, thanks man :)

One of the Fruits Of The Spirit is "Joy". I'm going to post some Joy for you... can you post some to? Together, we can feed off our positive energy as we celebrate the Joy our God has given us.

1. Worship Team - We were down a drummer as Johnny was sick with the flu. Marisa got to play the Congas with the microphones turned up for the beat. We are so blessed to have Marisa and Vince and have been so incredibly fun to play with. I like the positive energy they bring to the group. Then having Ashley play piano with us for the 1st time... awesome! Being around people that LOVE to worship and have a heart to serve really help bring us together.

2. Softball - Oh my, we are 2-2 for the year! This has been our best team so far over the past 4 years. Monday's game was so intense as we won 12-11. It is so fun to get a chance to play with a group of fun and positive people. I really look forward to Monday's as this is a group that really knows how to have a fun time and laugh.

3. SF Giants - We finally have some positive energy as we won today for Opening Day. It was so exciting to watch them play today! I think there were millions of people today that felt good about that today.

4. Hillsong United - Concert next Thursday in Sacramento. So exciting that maybe almost 10 of us are going down. This will such a great time of fellowship together.

5. 8 Years of Marriage Today, Awesome! My wife is just a huge ball of Joy and Fun to be around. Sign me up for another year.

I'm feeling the energy, keep it going! I can't wait to hear about the Joy in your life today and this week. I'm already feeling a high from just typing it all out... try some.

Fun Run...

2009-04-04T20:21:00.001-07:00

The other day Chris Cable calls me saying he saw me running over at the McConnell trail. To my suprise, he was not only stalking me, but he was jealous as he said he wanted to run with me. We agreed that we both run at a slower pace as we are not training for the Olympics.

Today I'm talking with Josh Ritter and he said he would totally run with a group of people. I know from previous years that Joel participated in "Fun Runs". My guess is that Matt Kibler would run because he is trying to get in the CHP even though he only has a 2% chance. I know the Scarbrough's have run that trail in the past.

My thought as I put together the # of people that not only want to get or stay in better shape, is that we could totally put together our own "Fun Run" and probably get 10 people out there without a problem. I think our group would grow.

I'm thinking we do something on a Saturday morning and we either start at the River Trail for a 5.7 mile loop or the 4.5 mile McConnell Foundation loop (if you do the 2.25 mile loop twice). How about it, people. Maybe we start a "Fun Run" Blog?

Things I miss...

2009-04-02T20:46:00.000-07:00

1. The Blogger Olympics
2. Garlic Fries at the SF Giants Game
3. Ally going to bed quietly
4. Being Younger
5. Softball (Just cause I missed Monday's Game)
6. Good Economy
7. Coldstone Ice Cream Cupcakes
8. Facebook (It has only been 15 minutes)
9. Humor, Funny things, Need more Laughter
10. My Farm in the backyard at the old house

Things...

2009-04-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

The Giants come home tonight! They'll play the 1st game of the year at home tomorrow night against the A's. They'll be 4 exhibition games in the Bay Area until Opening Day on Tuesday. If this is a good year for the Giants, my family will never see me as I'll be glued to the TV.

I'm getting really excited for the Hillsong United Concert in a few weeks. Sort of funny, but I think a few people that are going have said that this is the 1st concert they have ever been to.

Totally jealous that Joel is planting his Farm... our old house in Anderson had a farm that would put Joel to shame. I had rows of corn and too many plants of everything. Jamie hated it... but I miss it.

I got the official letter from Farmers that I qualified for Championship. Less than 1% of the agents qualify for this. For entertainment, they were bringing in John Mellencamp for a private concert. I guess he is sick so they are bringing in Sheryl Crow instead. I'm probably more excited for Sheryl Crow. Nothing beats the Goo Goo Dolls from last year!

So Who Is the Anit-Christ?

2009-03-27T17:29:00.001-07:00

I've recently had many conversations with people that suggest Obama is the Anti-Christ. I've thought about this a lot. Lets pretend that he 100% is and we confirmed that today. So, now what? What would we really do? I believe it comes down to "nothing". If I'm wrong, forgive me. But isn't the Anti-Christ going to do their thing? Shouldn't we just sit back and watch cause we can't stop it?

Declare him the Anti-Christ... fine with me. It just doesn't change much right?

I Know but I really don't Know

2009-03-24T20:21:00.000-07:00

Things that I have said or thought to myself recently...

1. I know what to do but I can't do it.
2. I need a 2nd home in Sacramento with all the meetings Farmers has pulled me to.
3. I have lots of questions and not getting the right answers only finding myself asking the same questions.
4. I know how to make tough decisions, but can't execute them.
5. There are things I want to say, but sometimes best not said or not sure who to say them to. But when I say them even to myself, it feels better.
6. I have a plan, but my plans require me to make more plans... eventually I cancel those more plans to go back to the orginal plan. Later I figure out that the orginal plan will not work and I need to develop an entire new plan.
7. I believe I am living out episodes of "Lost". I have either been brought to the future or taken in the past... but I can't figure out what day or year it is.
8. I got caught talking to myself in the car with Emily in the back-seat. I was having a practice conversation and said it outloud... Emily said, "Who are you talking to.
9. Somedays I tempt myself to take Emily's ADHD meds... maybe items 1 through 8 above go away.
10. Everyone needs a secret blog. It is a place that you can type crazy things or anything that others can never read because no one knows of the "secret blog".

The Plan...

2009-03-19T10:52:00.001-07:00

So Jamie is letting me take Rylee to Arizona for the next 3 days. I am heading out Friday to see some Spring Training baseball games and my brother will meet up with me. I am totally taking her... do you think Jamie will actually let me?

Book Time - 101 Dalmatians

2009-03-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

I had the chance to read to Ally a book for bed time. It was 101 Dalmatians. At the end of the story, it was a happy ending as the 101 dogs walked into the small home. Not so happy in my opinion... as even one dog is too many in a home.

"Whatever shall we do with them?" Anita asked. "We'll buy a big place in the country," said Roger. "A Dalmatian Plantation!" It was a very merry Christmas, after all.

My thought of what they should really do with the dogs... Put them to sleep! Is purchasing a house for the dogs a good lesson to teach Ally of what to do in the situation of crisis? I thought about changing the ending of the story for Ally as this could teach Ally some real responsibility for the future when she is an adult in this situation. Tomorrow if I read the same story to her, I have the ending all prepared. The title is now called, "101 Dalmations makes one good fur coat and blanket for the bed"

Random Things

2009-03-12T19:25:00.000-07:00

Once again... many things to say as it has been a while since doing a post...

1) Softball is back... like the others, we really missed it. I just found out that Monday's game is at 6:00 PM on Yankee Field.

2) Facebook - I've been using it for about 2 months now... it is so addicting. I have almost 100 friends now. Everyone is using it!

3) Spring Training - I am going to Arizona with my brother and his friends next Friday to see 3 games. We have not done this for about 4 years, long time over-due.

4) Farmers Insurance - I've hired a new staff person that starts next week. I'm really excited about this person as they have bank management experience, proven sales skills, and a high level of customer service support. This person will help drive some sales and give us some leadership in the office. Matt has always been the back-bone of the office and we hope to not ever lose him but still will support him if the CHP dream happens.

5) On Jamie's recent post on favorite TV shows, she forgot to mention Shark Week in July... can you believe it will be soon?

6) We have 4 working TVs at the office with cable TV, Joel can not see any of them from his office. With March Madness starting soon, Joel is going to really regret not getting an outlet installed... still not too late Joel!

7) We are soon going to graduate Rylee from her crib to a big girl bed. We know what we will purchase at Ikea... just requires a trip at this point.

8) Emily is trying to collect as many of the things at the top of the soda can to open it... her class is going for a pizza party. So far she has not turned any in and so excited. Does anyone have a collection of soda cans that we can get the tops to?

9) Daylight Saving - I am still trying to wake up at a normal time... I need some sunlight to wake me up. Did you know that the correct term avoids the "S" at the end of Saving. Sounds weird to say as we've always said, "Savings".

10) Church and St. Patricks Day - Joel promises to turn the water green for the water pot at church and to make the grape juice green for communion. I think everyone should bring something green to eat or drink that shouldn't look green... sort of like... green brownies.

Softball is Back...

2009-03-02T19:29:00.000-08:00

We signed up for our co-ed softball team. We play on Monday nights and looking for some players. Females are really needed. Oh, this is a lot of fun and if you are interested, let me know.

We have a saying, "If you don't have a dog to kick at home, then you need to be playing softball".

It is so true as it is a great way to relax and have a lot of fun while the struggles of your day just melt away!

The 1st...

2009-02-23T22:21:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking for a while... "Wow, I'm so lucky as I have not had a cold since Spring of last year". Just as I thought there was a shot I could make it through the entire cold season and avoid it... I caught one. I'm not sure who to blame that gave me this one. At this point, I blame the accountants that rent office space as she came down with something that was so terrible that should have kept her home.

I'll be honest, when it comes to sickness, I am the biggest baby in the world. I cry to my wife that I can't handle it. She does such a good job of helping me along. I'm not tough when dealing with this. The worst part is the sore or scratchy throat... I could just about kill myself with that.

Hopefully this not just the 1st cold of the season for me... but the last! Maybe I'll need to take some time out of the office to heal.

I know the Big Announcement...

2009-02-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

I figured what the Big Announcement is at Bridge this Sunday. Joel played my game... you say one word and he answers yes or no. I gave him about 50+ words and put all the pieces together. Joel confirmed that I got it right but I'm sworn to secrecy. I encourage you to play the game!

I did also confirm that now only Joel, Leslie and myself know the big secret.

Day 7 and 8 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-15T22:21:00.000-08:00

Ahhh at last, back at home. But we left so much fun behind to come back. We have a lot to look forward to next time... maybe we'll bring friends with us.

Day 7
9:12 AM - Out of bed after a long night.
9:52 AM - We are ready to go but having computer problems with passwords for yahoo messenger and e-mail account. It is really weird as we can't log in... did someone hack us?
10:18 AM - Jamie heads down to the floor to grab us Starbucks and some morning food.
10:49 AM - Computer problems fixed... not sure what happened, but yahoo reset our password for us. We are now off to head to Bally's Casino where our show is for Price is Right. It starts at 2:30... we are walking the stirp.
11:47 AM - Arrive at Bally's... we got our show tickets and registered. We find out that Drew Carey is not the host but still a famous star. We are so excited!
12:11 PM - We are killing time until the Price is Right. Hitting those slots to win some big money. Our main goal is to get all the free drinks while playing so we are loopy and wired up for the show.
2:05 PM - Seating starts... heading to the seats.
2:34 PM - Show starts...
4:12 PM - It is all over... we did not get called up to the stage :( It was worth the experience but probably not as good as the actual show in Hollywood.
4:54 PM - Heading over to the Mirage Casino where our Jay Leno show is at.
5:43 PM - We go to pick up our tickets... PROBLEM. Our show was last night... how did we make that mistake. They work with us and give us tickets for tonight for Jay Leno. That was so cool of them.
5:57 PM - We decide to play some slots at the Mirage before dinner. Maybe we'll bankrupt this casino?
8:12 PM - After tough decisions of where to go... we have our Valentine's dinner.
9:34 PM - We head over to Jay Leno for seating. Did I forget to mention that we saw the famous baseball player Pete Rose today. Awesome!
10:03 PM - A Doo Bopp band opens for Leno.
11:58 PM - Jay Leno show over... it was awesome! He is just about as funny as Seinfeld when we saw him.
12:08 AM - Heading for the shuttle to get back to New York Casino
12:43 AM - Back at the hotel... we get ourselves another 40 oz Margarita at the Coyote Ugly Club to share.
1:15 AM - Still a little wired but really sleepy, we order an in room movie
1:58 AM - Think we fell asleep by now?

Day 8
9:42 AM - We are up... we can not get a late-check out.... so we have to be ready and out by 11:00
10:55 AM - All checked out.... we head to get some food.
11:24 AM - We head to the strip to go shopping for our girls.
12:05 PM - We now head to Excaliber Casino as we are killing time. Jamie and I get this really cool picture lasered into this thing... can't describe it... have to see it. It takes one hour to make.
2:14 PM - Depart to head to the airport... we are running late as flight leaves at 4:40 PM. We still need to get to our car, return rental car, shuttle to airport, check luggage... rush rush rush
3:05 PM - We got a little lost as the rental car place is located a few miles from airport... and we had to get gas.
3:42 PM - All checked in... just ready to board.
5:15 PM - Plane leaves about 30 minutes late... we are hoping to make our connection flight in S.F.
7:05 PM - Arrive at S.F. for connecting flight... we are in a short delay but it does appear our plane will not be canceled...
7:40 PM - We eat some dinner and just waiting for flight.
8:10 PM - Flight to Redding leaves... trip almost over
9:11 PM - We are in Redding...
9:28 PM - Home.... and the 8 Day Business Trip is over!!! Back to Reality.

Day 6 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-14T10:10:00.000-08:00

What a busy day... we did so much today. I don't think the President could be as busy as us...

Day 6 - (The events happen in real time)
9:16 AM - We roll out of bed... tired from a long time but ready to go.
10:22 AM - Took a long time to get ready... slow and steady. Off to appointments as I scheduled Jamie for a 50 minute massage and 60 minute pedicure.
10:30 AM - Arrival at the Spa and Gym... Jamie goes to get pampered... I go to work-out.
11:47 AM - Done working out, head to the room to take care of a few little bills, check with staff. Waiting for Jamie as she should be back around 1 PM
12:58 PM - Jamie is back... we decide last minute to get tickets for tonight at the Phantom of the Opera. We are so excited as we got awesome seats. Show starts at 7:00 at the Venetian.
1:12 PM - After mapping out the vegas trolley route, we head to grab lunch.
1:47 PM - Lunch is done, we walk accross the street to MGM and view the lions for a bit. We then proceed to the trolley, subway, tram, whatever you want to call it.
2:01 PM - $13 for a one day pass per person, yikes!
2:13 PM - Our stop at Harrah's. This is a trashy casino to walk through. Heading for the Venetian to pick up tickets.
2:21 PM - Strolling through the Venetian... wow what a nice place. It is a bit of a maze
2:54 PM - long line at ticket center, got our tickets... we decide to play a little.
5:05 PM - We are up $140... stop or keep playing?
6:13 PM - We should have stopped :) Off to find a quck snack as seating starts at 6:30
6:37 PM - Seated and ready to go... it is amazing inside, the appearance already says this will be a great show. I personally hope I understand the story :)
7:00 PM - Show starts, right on time!
8:38 PM - What an amazing show! A must for anyone. We play some more to press our luck. We found a really fun game called, Deal or No Deal. Just like the real show... if you hit the bonus, you pick suit-cases. The top prize was 30,000 credits or $300 in our suit-case. We pick some awesome picks and eventually dealer offers us $120... we end up taking the offer. It was a good pick as our suit-case had only 750 credits or $7.50.
9:45 PM - We head accross the street to Treasure Island. Fun place, but we don't have much luck here.
10:47 PM - Back to the subway... it is a really cold and windy walk back to Harrah's.
11:15 PM - We head over to Coyote Ugly Club... it would be so cool to be really young and party. We get a few drinks and head to the room.
11:35 PM - Order room-service as we really have not eaten much today at all.
12:23 AM - What a day.... off to sleep.

Day 5 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-13T09:37:00.000-08:00

Well it really isn't business so much except for checking the e-mails, talking to staff for very short periods of time, and logging into Farmers to look around. After 3 intense days of meetings, it is time for my mind to take a break :)

Day 5 -
7:20 AM - Alarm goes off, decided to sleep in as I've been up really early past few days. The alarm clock scared the Jesus out of me.
8:04 AM - Took me a long time to get ready this morning... no huge rush. Off to the gym.
8:09 AM - At the gym, did I mention that on each machine they have TV's. The treadmill makes you sick if you watch it as it is about 10 inches from your face. With the bobbing up and down, just not possible. I turn off the tv at that machine.
9:18 AM - Back at the room, by far the best work-out I've had all week. Maybe the air quality is better at this hotel? It doesn't make much sense, but I'll take it.
9:32 AM - Checking in with Jamie, her flight to S.F. leaves in one hour. It appears to be delayed.
9:44 AM - 2nd shower of the day... Yes Kristen, I might be passing 3 today.
10:18 AM - Talked with Matt at the office. Everything is going fine. Those are always great things to hear. How about those sales if reading this?
10:36 AM - Off to find food as I have not had a bite today and I'm really hungry. End up going to my 1st buffet but it is the best choice for immediate food. It was all breakfest food, and I did not load up. Spent a lot of money for little portions.
10:58 AM - Killing time, Killing the slots
1:45 PM -Slot Update, I'm up $75 today.
2:28 PM - Heading to the room to check on Jamie's Flight status. Find out it lands 15 minutes early. I spend 10 minutes cleaning the room as I want her to see the room as I did when I walked in. It looks pefect... time to go pick her up.
3:05 PM - Jamie is picked up and in the car. My partner in crime has arrived.
4:12 PM - After getting unpacked, we are both really hungry. We make dinner reservations for early evening and decide to go share some food. The food turned out to be a huge portion... even though we split, we are now not hungry.
5:15 PM - We hit the slots together...
8:04 PM - Break for dinner. We are up and down... not sure at this point. We eat at the ESPN place in the hotel. I guess there is no such thing as small portions. It is too bad as we can't finish our food and there is no place to take it back... what a bummer.
9:44 PM - We decide to walk off our food. We walk to the MGM, then back to NY Hotel on the outside as we go accross the Brooklyn Bridege, then head over to The Mirage, then Monto Carlo, then stroll along the street back to the Hotel. It is cold outside but a perfect chill.
11:10 PM - We kill some little time to give the slots a last chance to make us very rich. Learned to never gamble tired.
11:58 PM - Heading straight to bed... we are wiped out. We must have been asleep at 11:59 PM.

Day 4 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-11T23:23:00.000-08:00

Sort of a crazy day today... some real sad news... depressing is the real thing that stands out today.

Day 4
6:13 AM - Out of bed... getting up late which is bad because Farmers meetings start 30 minutes earlier today. Will need to work out harder in less time this morning.
6:22 AM - Got to the gym fast... it is so crowded, but I've noticed it empties out around 7:00 as people are probably getting to meetings like I am and need more time to get ready.
7:24 AM - Work out done which is the last one at Caesers Palace. I've noticed all week that for some reason I am so tired. I blame the high elevation (if we are high).
7:31 AM - Wasting no time to get ready as breakfest ends at 8:15 AM... still need to chat with wife, staff, shower and iron clothes. No time to spare.
8:11 AM - Made it to food... it was close. Sat next to some very well known agents in the company, kept my mouth quiet and listened. Only spoke when asked questions. Did lots of head nodding.
8:29 AM - Arrive at meeting... sit in the same spot like everyone else around me. I'm prepared by the guy behind me that I should have brought kleenex as this will be the day I cry.
8:53 AM - After host does introduction speech they start a DVD... It is about a 7 minute film on a young lady in her mid 20's. She tells this story of how she was sitting in the car as her husband was helping a bleeding person in an accident. Suddenly she watches him hit by a car at high speed. She knew something was bad... she got to her husband and he was not responsive... she knew he was dead. As a Christian couple... she cradled him in her arms and prayed and sang some songs. She has a 2 year old and expecting another in April. This just happened about 3 months ago. The Farmers Agent pushed them to purchase Life Insurance. You'd understand the emotion involved with this story by watching the DVD... it would make any grown man cry.
9:01 AM - The wife that lost her husband makes a suprise visit on stage and gives a 2 minute speech while she is obviously chocked up and holding back tears. She wanted to thank the Farmers Agent for what he did and also reminded us all agents to do more and push even harder. What a tragic story.
11:28 AM - The confrence is officially over after hearing from two guest speekers. What a busy schedule as we had so many meetings. Time to pack as I have until 1:00 to get out of the room and make my way to New York New York.
12:56 PM - After two trips to the car and about 1 mile of walking, I'm checked out. On my way to the laundry place.
1:32 PM - Oh I miss the GPS in the car at home. My directions I wrote down got me lost. I found an alternate laundry place.
1:47 PM - Laundry is started... it took 2 loads. Jesus, thank you that we have a washer and dryer at home and don't have to travel to do our laundry!
2:49 PM - Laundry is done... way faster than expected. Washer took 30 minutes, dryer took only 20... totally crazy. Off to the hotel for check-in.
3:14 PM - Arrive for check-in. Off to the room. This is so much better... this elevator to our room is right in the main floor. At Caesars, it was about 1/4 mile walk to anything important. The room is really nice. I'm going to like this better.
3:28 PM - Check in with staff... here is another tragedy for the day... A very good customer of mine died yesterday. Had a heart attack and died in bed. This is a really close client and I feel so terrible as I know I never offered him Life Insurance. He is a man that I probably was too afraid to ask as he has a strong personality. No excuses and I feel so guilty and terrible for him. This experience and everything I learned at the confrence is going to change our office a lot. We were ranked about #1 in the Division in Life Sales out of 300+ agents for Farmers in Northern California. To tell you the truth, we are not doing enough and asking enough. I dont' want to see another death in our agency where we knew we never asked the customer. I'm taking this really hard today.
4:48 PM - After helping Jamie check in for her flight tomorrow... I'm off to scout out the gym.
5:01 PM - Found Gym and Spa.... It is only $10 per day for the gym and spa :) They close at 7:00 PM at night though. I booked a 1 hour massage and 1 hour pedicure for Jamie for Friday.... I think she is going to love it!
5:38 PM - Made my way back to the room to change clothes and now back at the gym. 2nd work-out today... 6th work-out during this trip.
6:55 PM - On my way bacak after working out... the hotel is VERY busy. I'll be sharing an elevator with a packed group as there is no alternate. The problem is that I'm sweaty and not smelling as good as everyone else. This is a problem.... I wait out the elevator until I know I can get on with a small group. I did survive this experience
6:58 PM - Back at room, showered up and now watching the rest of the UNC vs Duke game... this is a huge game.
7:54 PM - I make my way out to hunt for dinner and play some slots and get some free drinks.
11:35 PM - Tired, very tired. I finished the night about $100 up... totally crazy! Going to bed as I have to work-out again. I need to look my best for Valentine's day as I will be with a very good looking wife.

Day 3 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-10T22:16:00.001-08:00

Today was a very busy day... really no time to play. This day was scheduled with meetings and more meetings and I managed to squeeze in a few other things.

Day 2 - Continued
9:59 PM - In Bed
10:07 PM - Asleep I think... it was fast.

Day 3
6:18 AM - Up out of bed, a little late start for the day
6:27 AM - Off to the gym... going fast as I'm late
7:54 AM - Done with work-out. I have not explained at this point that it is about a 4 minute walk through the entire casino from one side to the other from gym to elevator for our building. I call this the walk of shame as I have prespired plenty. Everyone else is dressed up real fancy. The funny thing is I still bring a fresh change of clothes, but there is no locker room, just a bathroom. It is too much effort to change... and my clothes hide the sweat well. Just don't share an elevator is the goal :)
8:02 AM - Rushing with Shower... Rushing to check-in with staff... Rushing to say hello to Jamie.
8:31 AM - Flying down-stairs to make breakfest... it is being served until 8:45.
8:37 AM - Sat to eat at a table with two guys... I have no clue who they are. I keep real quiet as I heard some advice. Everyone likes to talk about themselves... so if you just walk up to a group and stand and listen... they will love you because you allowed them to talk about themselves. These two guys really, really loved to talk about themselves... but I'll never find out if they liked me because of the advice I followed. There is more to this advice with better instructions but it would be a blog for another day.
8:45 AM - I ate fast, now I'm rushing to 1st meeting...
8:57 AM - After brief talk from the host on stage, we are introduced to the 1st speaker. Wow, this guy was amazing. I learned some awesome things that I can't wait to apply at the office. I need to understand more that my role as an agent has the ability to change a families life in the event of a tragedy. I have to be strong enough to make sure our customers are prepared.
11:01 AM - We are out for break, we will be breaking out into classes now.
11:14 AM - I find out from the staff that one of my customers was a part of the lotto winnings... they will share 72 million. Oh my gosh... If I can help this customer invest through Farmers, I'll be a legend.
11:32 AM - Next class starts...this is going 50 minutes. It goes fast but didn't get too much out of this.
12:27 PM - I'm out of class and find out we were out 7 minutes late. I looked a lunch at it was a ton of calories. I won the fight and went to the room to get something low calorie... ended up eating some nuts.
1:24 PM - Rushing out to the next class... this will be interesting.
2:19 PM - This class was complicated as there is some good information but trying to figure out how to apply it. It involves advising people with their pension plans... there is one MAJOR mistake people make when retiring and setting up the monthly withdrawls. Most people make the mistake and it costs them about $800 per month in less income. This is something I'll be working with customers on when I get back.
2:34 PM - Decided to skip the next class so I can rush to the gym as I won't make it tonight since it closes at 8:00 PM. This will be my 2nd work-out today... I'm already tired but very motivated as I figure I might be eating a little worse when Jamie gets here. I'm determined to have a weight loss on Monday.
3:49 PM - Back at the room, this work-out was awesome but I'm tired enough that I feel sort of sick or weak. I drank a diet-soda back in the room and I feel better.
4:22 PM - Off to next meeting... it'll be about an hour long. The word got out that I have a customer that won the lotto. My life Rep takes me to be introduced to the CEO of Farmers Financial Solutions. What an amazing meeting. If I can help this custmer... I'll be a legend.
5:42 PM - We are out for short break until the evening session starts for a social dinner... that means you walk around and eat and meet all sorts of people. I've already been introduced to 2 of our CEO's of the company this week and #3 and #4 ranked people in Farmers. Sort of on a high meeting important people... what else could happen tonight.
6:13 PM - Arrived at the social tonight... felt out of place as these are the times that it really helps to have Jamie to be with.
7:58 PM - Departed the social for the room... decide to hit the slots for 1 hour.
9:09 PM - Back at the room, I have to report that I did not get rich... maybe tomorrow will be my day to strike it big.
9:28 PM - Got a chance to talk with Jamie. Hear it was snowing in Redding and Emily dropped a bucket of water on Ally in bed to be funny. Not so funny to Jamie :)
10:47 PM - I'm all showered up to wash the casino smoke off... off to bed for an early rise in the morning.

Day 2 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

It was a full packed day today, very busy indeed.

Day 1 - Continued
6:21 PM - Out the door to go find the gym. Find out it is going to cost me $50 for 3 days. What choice do I have but to do it. Heading back to the room to get clothes but have to hurry as they close at 8:00 PM.
6:29 PM - Back at room and getting ready to go.
6:37 PM - Out the door and heading back to gym
6:52 PM - I'm one of three people working out. The gym is huge and feels like the Biggest Loser Campus. The machines are top notch. I wish our gym has machines this nice at home!
7:48 PM - Done working out, I wonder if the altitude is high here in Vegas as I'm really tired.
7:59 PM - The room service that was delivered to me is looking really good. I know I need a good weigh in. So I'll continue to look at it as long as possible.
8:18 PM - I'm really thirsty and decide to drink 1 of the 12 free beers. There is really nothing else to drink except a soda from the fridge that will cost $6.
9:05 PM - I'm tired and off to bed as I need to get up early to work-out. I purchase a movie "Swing Vote" to put me asleep as I'm tired of changing channels as I can't find something to sleep to. I made it about 25 minutes into the move and out for the night.

Day 2
5:55 AM - Alarm clock is off... getting ready to go to the gym
6:20 AM - Arrival at the gym... goal is to get a good work-out for one hour.
7:42 AM - Back at the room... work-out was excellent. Time to Shower up.
8:00 AM - Reported weight... lost 6.8 lbs for the week. I feel like I'm back in to play as I'm focused on eating better.
8:48 AM - After enjoying chatting with Jamie, I'm heading off to Walmart to purchase some water and sodas for the room. Also trying to find something to eat for brunch.
8:54 AM - Too tempting... make my 1st play on the slots before heading to parking lot.
9:38 AM - Off to Walmart
11:05 AM - Shopping and Lunch is complete, back to the Caesars Palace
11:48 AM - Back in the room, found out that I need to be at the Farmers Reception at 1:00 PM... time to get clothes ironed.
12:53 PM - Arrival at Farmers Reception.
2:12 PM - Back at room, have 30 minutes to kill before event starts at 3:00
2:47 PM - Arrival for 1st official meeting
5:11 PM - 1st meeting is done, we heard from 4 of the Farmers VIP's and the CEO of Farmers Life. There are 50 of us Agents, 25 District Managers in attendance. This is going to be a special week.
5:55 PM - On my way back to the Farmers Awards Dinner. I met up with the Life Rep who manages our Division (Northern CA). He took me around and introduced me to the #3 man of Farmers and also the CEO of Farmers Life. It was quite an honor to meet these people... these people have some serious rank in Farmers.
6:30 PM - After free cock-tail time... dinner seating starts.
8:00 PM - Dinner Service complete, we had Filet and Shrimp for dinner. It was very well prepared and a classy event. At my table included some of the VP's at Farmers New World Life. It was interesting to chat with them as they gave a sneak peak at the huge 100 year celebration in 2010 for Farmers. This is an event to not miss as there will be similar entertainment that we get at the Championship events every year in May.
8:47 PM - Back in Room and a great chance to talk with my missed wife. These events are not the same without her. I can't wait until she gets here.
9:47 PM - Getting ready for bed, have an early wake-up for the gym again!

Day 1 - Las Vegas (Business) Trip

2009-02-08T17:52:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, finally here after some delays today.

7:30 - Out of bed and starting the morning. Got my pre-weigh in before leaving for Vegas.
8:27 - All packed and getting ready for the day.
8:54 - Out the door to kill time with family as we are for some reason able to get ready really fast. This is weird as we typically have a hard time getting ready on a Sunday morning and out the door on time.
9:01 - Arrival at Jack in the Box to get Jamie some food and soda... Mike didn't as I have a weigh in the next day.
9:12 - After getting on Hwy 44 West by In-N-Out, Got off on I-5 South, Got off on Hwy 44 East, Got off on Hilltop exit, we realized we did an entire circle to make our way to Starbucks by Home Depot. Emily says in the car, "I'm upset because we did an entire circle". She is really smart.
9:26 - Arrival at Redding Airport. Kissed all kids goodbye, almost forgot to kiss wife :)
9:28 - Checking in and finding out my 10:45 flight is delayed because of weather in S.F. This will probably cause me to miss my connecting flight leaving at 12:45
11:54 - Leaving Redding 1 hour late, found out I have a chance to make connecting flight to Las Vegas as that is delayed 15 minutes... might be tight.
12:47 - Landing in S.F. During the Flight and waiting in Redding airport, I managed to watch 3 episodes of Prison Break - Season 1 (Only 3 more left and it is getting really good)
12:54 - Find out flight leaves at 1:30 for Vegas, delay was more than expected, grabbed a healthy sandwich.
1:04 - After sitting down to eat, flight is now delayed to 1:45
1:45 - Boarded and ready to go... front row seat in airplane!
3:10 - Arrival in Vegas, getting luggage and rental car.
3:58 - Arrival at Caesers Palace, parking is a bit of a challenge.
4:34 - Checked in - they gave me a spa room upgrade for $30 per night.
4:42 - In the room, oh my gosh it is awesome! Getting everything unpacked and ready. Need to iron clothes for my business trip. 4:48 - Opened suit-case to find a huge notice from the TSA that my suit-case was inspected. I'm sure they thought my scale looked a bit odd... who brings that to Vegas :)
5:12 - Unpacked and ready to explore. I brought my scale with me... I know will need to go find the excercise room as this is my #1 task tonight.

6:16 - Finished blogging and a knock on the door... someone ordered me room service... I can't do anything with it! This is totally not fair! Found out with the card that it was from my State Executive Director of Farmers who is in charge of California... wow! 10 Beers and a lot of food!

What happens in Vegas... Stays in Vegas

2009-02-07T10:49:00.001-08:00

Less than 24 hours until I leave for my (Business) trip to Vegas. I leave Sunday morning as Farmers is putting us up at the Caesers Palace until Wednesday. After that, we'll be moving over to the New York - New York until we leave Sunday. Jamie is flying down on Thursday. There is nothing like spending a Valentines weekend in Vegas that could could compare to any other choice right? Maybe we'll get married again.

The only show tickets we have booked so far is seeing Jay Leno and also going to the Price is Right taping. We did the Knights of the Round Table about 5 years ago but couldn't do that again unless we had friends with us and also lots of alcohol.

I'm packing the scale in the suit-case. I figure I can still get two work-outs a day in until Jamie gets in on Thursday. Wouldn't that be impressive if I have a huge weight loss after spending one week in Vegas?

I might have to consider doing a blog update each day like I did a few years ago when Jamie left to go on a cruise for a week without me.

Happy (Re-Do) New Year

2009-02-03T20:36:00.000-08:00

Seems like I can't stay focused in 2009. There are so many things I want to be doing but I have so many distractions in front of me. Maybe I need to start taking some of Emily's ADHD medication? I think if I slip a few pills, Jamie would never notice what was missing.

Biggest Loser Round 2 has been to a slow start. I know the things that are hurting me and I'm making good progress in dealing with the weaknesses (food). My work-outs have been really good and I've gained a lot of endurance since starting week 1. Today I was able to do 6 miles of running in 51 minutes at the gym. That about matches my best runs at the end of Round 1. I'm frustrated with myself at the end of week 3 as I would have posted a 5 lb weight loss, but a late night dinner Saturday (KFC) and Josh's Super Bowl Party without a Sunday work-out created a terrible result. I'm back to where I was on Saturday afternoon and I know with a really good finish this week and some focus, I might start feeling better about Round 2.

I know I can do so much more and I don't feel like I am living the standards that I have for myself and what God wants of me. I've been thrown a lot of situations in 2009 already that I feel have beat me up and leaving me a bit weak. What I feel is that... I know how to do better... I want to do better... but I just flat out struggle in doing better.

I'm jealous for my brother as he is taking a new position in Pennsylvania. For him it is almost like a fresh start in life as he is walking away from everything in Missouri. He has discussed us coming out there and doing that new start like him and opening up a new Farmers Insurance office there. I don't think the idea of a fresh start is the right start right now as I look ahead. Maybe it sounds more exciting rather than tempting as I remember that 2009 comes down to my lack of focus and lack of desire to deal with the testing I've already faced this year.

I really pray that God can help give some energy and ability to be focused in everything ahead of me. I know I'm vulnerable right now and feel blessed that God has carried me through January. God has truly been watching over me through all the testing of 2009.

I see February as a new start in 2009.

What Joel and Leslie really did on vacation...

2009-01-30T09:37:00.000-08:00

Joel and Leslie left for vacation really excited to go on a trip and do Nothing and have anything to do. The trip of Nothing was going to be exciting and also easy because there would be Nothing to plan other than booking the location at a place that they could make sure there is Nothing exciting.

When they showed up at the front desk to check-in at the place of Nothing, the workers looked confused and had to leave and go talk to someone. They came back and gave Joel and Leslie a key to a cabin that was an extreme distance away from the main lodge. It turns out that they were not supposed to be there as a reservation was never booked for them. The lodge didn't have the heart to turn them away because of Joel and Leslie's excitement about being on the vacation where there is Nothing to do. They figured if they put them at the cabin which would be an extreme walking distance, they would naturally leave because most people would not want to be in a situation of Nothing to do. Actually the walking distance got Joel and Leslie really excited because it would be even further away from any sort of action and give them Nothing to do.

All week Joel and Leslie are the 1st to show up to the events and meals where Nothing happened. Their excitement caused such a stir at the lodge as no one had ever witnessed such joy in a couple with Nothing to do. Most people going to a place where there is Nothing to do would have poor spirits... but not Joel and Leslie. They just really enjoyed the life of Nothing going on, Nothing to do, and even Nothing to plan for. Nothing, Nothing, Nothing.

I personally thought that this would have been the sort of trip that a baby gets made. But this was not the case as that would require Something to do. Instead, the plan went ahead to make sure there was Nothing to do because doing Something would really spoil a good vacation.

So what did Joel and Leslie really do for vacation? You guessed it... Nothing at all. Why would you go on a vacation looking for Something to do?

Things you shouldn't know... But now you know

2009-01-27T10:57:00.000-08:00

1. Joel and Leslie will announce a 2nd baby on the way 2 months after they get back from their vacation.

2. World Market Collapse - Think about the rapture happening with millions of people "missing". What we are going through now is nothing compared to the future. I included this in "what you shouldn't know" because in theory we'll be a part of the rapture. (By the way, Matt didn't know what the rapture is)

http://www.raptureready.com/nm/193.html

http://www.godonthe.net/evidence/collapse.htm

3. You don't want to know how much weight I've already lost this week and on track for... it'll only depress you and make you stop thinking you have a chance for winning week #3.

4. The Wilburn's didn't know that Little Caesars has a drive-thru pick-up. So how many calories are in a $5.55 pepperoni pizza? Try 280 calories per slice or 2,240 for the entire pie. Add 845 calories (with dipping sauce) for the bag of crazy bread. A total of 3,000 calories for about $8 and just way too easy of a meal when you don't feel like cooking.

5. I purchased Bank of America stock at $30 per share back in September. It is worth about $6 per share today. It's not as bad as it sounds as I'm down only 12% as I made money on other stocks.

6. Rylee is about 18 months...I've only changed about 3 of her diapers.

7. Jamie is about the best wife anyone could have. I've kept this on the list of "things you shouldn't know" for almost 8 years. It is such a treasured secret like telling people that I keep $20,000 in cash laying around in the back-yard. Certain things are kept secret for protection. Well the secret is out cause the world should know the gem that I have :)

8. We used to have cats, but not for the past 4 or 5 years. I really would consider trying again but it appears that Ally is allergic. As far as dogs... not my thing. The smaller the better.

9. I have a history of holding political office from 2nd grade through college. Maybe city council next? I would need about 6,000 votes to win.

10. I broke a bedroom lamp this morning... too difficult to explain and not sure if I'm allowed to.

Things I wish were big... Things I'm glad are not big

2009-01-26T10:23:00.001-08:00

1. Wish my agency was bigger than big... I don't know if us agents ever get so satisfied, but we do have work as we have to be bigger.
2. I'm really glad my pants size is not bigger or what it was in September. I really love and hate the Biggest Loser Bridge challenge. In the long run, I don't want to be bigger.
3. Can't wait until our church is bigger... I've heard we have to act bigger to be bigger. But I'm really glad to see that lots of things have gotten bigger... remember 1 year ago, 2 years ago... even 3? Wow, we are sure big :)
4. Glad my kids are not big yet... they are still cute at their age... not so sure they are allowed to grow up and be big.
5. Wish the SF Giants are Big this year... meaning that we need to win!
6. I always joke with Jamie and suggest that I'm ready for our family to grow bigger. Honestly... if we have a 4th, nothing at that point stopping us from a dozen, why ever stop. I guess it could improve our chances of getting a TV show.

I love the afternoons because...

2009-01-21T22:38:00.000-08:00

Things that are just great about the afternoons from Monday through Friday...

1. Knowing I'm past voice-mails and service issues and can focus on the easy work.
2. Eating... my favorite time to enjoy food. I love being starving and enjoying the 1st bite of food.
3. Picking up Emily at school and hearing her gripe that mommy wasn't there to pick her up but always winning her over with a McDonalds cookie.
4. 12:35 start times for Giants games, these make long lunch hours.
5. Reading Blogs and hoping for new stuff (annoyed if nothing new)
6. Seeing the stock market close at 1:00 and either mad cause I didn't buy or pleased that I didn't buy. I never win on this.
7. Talking to people on yahoo instant msg.
8. Trying to distract the staff with meaningless conversation. I aim for very stupid topics but we call it "creative thinking". Our ideas end up to be things that could change the world as we've created new definitions for words and solved the problems of America.
9. Microwaving the coffee from the morning and adding cream... it tastes just as good as it did in the morning.
10. Flat out, the best thing is... getting to spend time with Jamie.

My new line...

2009-01-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

I've always had lines I use in the office that became the saying (Ask Matt, Leslie, Amber, or Joel)

1. "Don't burn up out there" - that was my saying in the Winter to customers walking out of the office. I always thought it was funny... the colder outside, the better. This one got old and we never could develop a good line for summer weather.

2. "Make it a Great Day" - Inspired by my District Manager (Greatest Boss you could have). Always has a positive angle to everything. I don't believe the man has the ability to get angry or frustrated in life. I've always liked that line as we have the ability to dictate the day (make it great) regardless of all the circumstances in life.

3. "Roger That" - Inspired from the move "Airplane". Everything in the office is "Roger That" in response to a question asked. This also has always made me want to hire an employee named Roger so I could have even more fun with the line. Had a customer die about 18 months ago named Roger and we had to be more careful using the line. We had many meetings to avoid such lines if the wife (widow) came in. Amber today said I need to hire a "Marco" so we can always say "Polo". I'd have a hard time firing a Roger or Marco... but a Matt, Amber or Leslie... nothing too fancy with those names.

4. "Leslie, can you get my Monster.com posting up today" - my comeback with staff to have fun showing I could replace them anytime. I had to use this line when they had fun playing with me with whatever creative lines they had for me each day. No matter what, they still held the better hand of cards and my line was ignored. Maybe the staff just felt the threat of monster.com is not credible as it is a poor way to hire employees?

5. (Customer) "How are you?" (Me) "Good... can't complain... and no one would listen if I did". I just picked this one up today. This was my response with customers in the office asking how I was. I'm evaluating this line today to see how much this is used in life by others. It sounds good on paper but this is a serious decision. I generally stick with lines for a long time and my reputation depends on a good line.

* A side-note - Been a real crummy past 10 days. Line #2 is inspiring and always a good line to fall back on. It never gets old!

Whistle Blower...

2009-01-15T19:21:00.000-08:00

In the event that you read Joel's blog and you wonder what he is up to this Sunday... read his posting 1st. I have some inside information that you might want to know...

http://joelandleslie.blogspot.com/2009/01/let-me-loose.html

1. Joel was collecting a lot of cardboard boxes today. My 1st thought was, oh no... he is moving out and not going to pay office rent. Then the boxes kept being brought in and he was not packing his things.

2. I told Joel... "Hey you moving out, ha ha?" He replied, "No this is all for Sunday... oh shoot did I just leak that information and say it outloud?"

My theories of what is going to happen.

1. Joel is going to ask us to take the empty boxes and fill with with our junk and give the items to charity?
2. Joel is going to ask us to take the cut up card-board and be home-less for a day and sleep on them somewhere in Redding?
3. Joel is low on cash and wanting to show us how much card-board he collected in one day to recycle and get cash... now he wants us all to do the same and bring the cardboard to him?
4. Joel is setting up a fort at church... we all get to play in the fort?
5. Joel doesn't have a clue what he is doing with it and can only answer when we ask, "Hey what is the cardboard for?" He will reply, "You should already know and if you don't have that figured out and can clearly understand then maybe you need to answer if you are thinking outside of the box"

Has anyone seen strange activities of what Joel has been doing this week? Maybe we can put the pieces of information together with what I have.

Mid-Week Update

2009-01-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

Back to the Gym... Back to Working out.

End of Round 1:
Weight Flucuating between 226 and 233.
Best time on the treadmill about 54 minutes
Best Distance about 6.25 miles
Average Pulse reading on treadmill at end of work-out 165 to 175
Spending About 20 minutes on bike
Weights 2-3 times per week
Average Calories Burned: 1,300

Start of Round 2 (one month break)
Weight Started at 243.4
Starting Time on treadmill 20 minutes (very tired)
Starting Distance about 2.25 miles
Average Pulse reading on treadmill at end of work-out 192 to 199
Spending 20 minutes on bike
Weights - Not Yet
Average Calories Burned: 650

Can you believe that? The pulse rate totally shocks me! Are there any fitness experts that can explain the pulse difference? I'm feeling physically tired working out and trying to build back the stamina. I have a good feel it will take about 2 weeks.

Eating habits are getting better but I have some more work to do on that. Tim sent me an e-mail today asking how that is going... I appreciate the accountability note. Thanks for the help as I need to concentrate more.

The Last Time was...

2009-01-12T14:08:00.001-08:00

Yeah I was really surprised this morning on the scale. I expected worse... much worse. The last time I was on the scale was around December 17th which is also around the last time I was at the gym or did anything physical other than walking through the mall. And the weekend buffet using our gift cards created a recipe for a really bad weigh in.

So I'm 10 lbs up from the end of Round 1. I figured I would be about 4 lbs higher from just getting off the diet. I also took into factor that eating yesterday was about 3 lbs of heavy food. I'm not suggesting that I'm happy with the weight gain from the end of Round 1... but I expected to see 255 on the scale.

It feels really good to start Round 2. I love the accountability of everyone watching. I like knowing that being aware of what I'm eating and working-out is important as I have a weight report in 7 days.

I'm off to the gym tonight. I can't wait! My goal is to be around 195 at the end of the 12 weeks. Do the math... I'm already telling you what you'll need to lose to beat me :)

Good luck to everyone... this is going to be exciting. I already can't wait until next Monday!

Last Rights...

2009-01-11T18:39:00.000-08:00

With the Round 2 diet starting tomorrow... we used some gift cards over the weekend as we might not be using those over the next 12 weeks...

Friday Night was Cattlemens
Last Night was Olive Garden - Had the Tour of Italy
For Lunch today had Casa Ramos - Had the Mexican Pizza
For Dinner Tonight - Outback Steak-house - Dinner, 2 sides, cheese cake

I think my 1st week weight loss might be a lot more than normal as my stomach feels like it gained 15 lbs this weekend :) This might be my excuse for a weight gain since the end of Round 1.

The bad news... we still have more gift cards. But I refuse to be weak during the 12 weeks. It is back to the basics.

February 14th

2009-01-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, I can't wait. I've been thinking about this day for a long time. Only 39 more days to go. Let me give you some hints of what February 14th means...

1. Magical
2. Arizona or Florida
3. The smell of leather
4. Protection for Men to wear
5. Balls
6. Getting Dirty and Sweaty
7. Keeping Score
8. Giving each other signs
9. Sometimes with Light, other times in the dark
10. When it is all done, time to shower

You guessed it... Spring Training starts for baseball! The Pitchers and Catchers report to camp on February 14th. Most of the players will also report this day as well. The 1st game is February 25th at 12:05 for Spring Training.

In case you didn't know... my team is the San Francisco Giants. Been a die-hard fan since 1985. We have had a bad run for the past 4 years, but I believe this will be a good year for us. Pitching is some of the best in the majors. Our offense is a bit weak... but we still have the chance of picking up a good bat through a trade or free agency.

The 2006 season and before, Jamie could testify that out of 162 games in a season... I might have missed 5 games. I can remember how loyal I was. I remember the year Joel and Leslie were getting married and the Giants were playing a very important series against the Cubs. It was totally killing me to not know what was going on during the wedding. There were few breaks when I got to sneak away to the car and check the score to find out that we were not winning. I am a TOTAL believer that the Giants perform better when I watch. I couldn't watch this important game because of the wedding and I blame the Smith's for us not making the playoffs because I couldn't be there to help our team win.

My brother and I also make Rally Cakes. I TOTALLY believe that when our team is on a loosing streak of 3 games or more, you make a cake and write something terrible about the other team on the cake that can't be said on the blog. If you eat the cake before the 1st pitch, then the rally cake makes the Giants win. My brother and I kept the #'s on the Rally Cake and we went something like 10-0 in the run of the 1st 10 cakes over a two year period.

2007 and 2008 were terrible seasons for the Giants. They were so bad that out of the 162 games in each of the season, I failed to watch the games in the 2nd half of the season. During these times, I spent so much time with family. I got to know them all and find out what they do in the summer as I got to hang out with them. I think Jamie appreciated me home for the summer :)

Well, the 2009 season is looking promising. This might be a year that I am glued to the Giants and miss very few games. This might be a year that I am not glued to Shark Week in July because the Giants are on. This might be a year that I am not watching Meerkat Manor in August because we are fighting to make the playoffs. This might also be the year that I get to eat 30 boxes of Garlic Fries over the season in San Francisco cause I'm very excited to attend as many games as possible.

So I hope you celebrate February 14th with me... a very special day. I can almost smell the grass being chipped and the dirt being dragged in the infield. It is time to sleep with my glove at night so the smell of leather fills the air. A day of love... oh yes... indeed... Go Giants!

A New Year...

2009-01-05T09:44:00.000-08:00

I was saying since about the middle of November that I couldn't wait to burn through the holiday's as I wanted 2009 to start.

All of that was work related as I couldn't wait to start on the goals all over again and get an early start instead of waiting to the end and having to produce so much that it just burned us out. Also, production was slow in November and December and it would be nice in January as our sales go up which can bring in more money to pay those bills.

My biggest fear of 2009 is going to be what the office will look like after we lose Matt to the CHP (if he gets in). Matt has been a great person to have in the office and will be a real tough person to lose. I was very spoiled to have him. Most of my challenges this year will be dealing with replacing Matt. I figure I have about 6 months before we lose Matt, but the ideal situation would be to have someone in place in 3 months so they are trained and ready to go by the time Matt leaves. How can I have an easy transition but still keep the office running well?

My biggest excitements that I can think about so far in 2009 is the trips this summer with Farmers. The 1st trip is "Championship" (top 1% agents qualify) which is in the middle of May in Palm Desert. The previous two years were in Hawaii and the Bahamas. John Mellencamp will be doing a concert for us. The 2nd trip is "Toppers" (top 5% agents qualify) which is a choice of locations that we'll get to pick from. We are torn between San Diego and Niagra Falls.

There is also another contest with Farmers that ended on December 31st for a trip to Las Vegas in February. I'm waiting to hear on that one. The group of people that qualified for this is the top sales people in Financial Services (life and investments). There are 100 agents that qualify for this out of the 15,000+ in the company.

My biggest challenges of 2009 involve the 2nd round of Biggest Loser. We are starting next Monday and I'm very motivated to start the next stage. I lost about 45 lbs in the 1st round and would like to lose 40 lbs in the 2nd round. Part of me is already excited for 2010 as there are a lot of hurdles in 2009. So I guess my other big challenge is to make it through 2009. I know I will have many other challenges in 2009 that I don't know about yet, but we'll just keep praying that God is watching over us and guides us through.

I hope that 2009 will be great for everyone!

The PG&E Challenge:

2008-12-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

Ok, the results are in from our annual energy conservation game. This is otherwise known as the "Don't turn on your heater" game between our family, the Smiths and anyone else that dared to play.

PG&E has a really cool tool online when you log into your account to view your current bill. They keep the archives online for a very long time for the amount of time that you have had service at your residence. Once you log into your account, on the left there is a link that says, "Compare Bills". You can actually get detailed information to compare any bill.

So here are the results of this billing statement ending on 12/16/2008 compared to the billing statement ending on 12/18/2007.

PGE States:
Energy Charges: $31.74 lower for this bill.
Billing Period: $10 lower because of less days billed
Gas Rate: $9 lower because of lower gas rates
Gas Usage: $7 lower because of average gas used per day
Weather: $3 lower because of weather changes

So here are the results of the billing statement ending on 11/17/2008 compared to the billing statement ending on 11/16/2007

PG&E States:
Energy Charges: $15.94 higher for this bill
Billing Period: $9 higher because of more days billed
Gas Rate: $3 lower because of lower gas rates
Gas Usage: $10 higher because of average gas used per day
Weather: $2 higher because or weather changes

So, who else can take the challenge to post your PG&E results to see if you did better than the Littau's or Smiths. This could be fun to see other results!

Feeling It...

2008-12-16T17:26:00.000-08:00

Jamie has been really sick the past 48 hours. I have not seen her this bad in many years. This is her 2nd cold over the past 3 weeks. I can't imagine if she gets hit a 3rd time as her body just might fall apart.

That said, she may have passed on something to me as I feel a scratchy throat which started late afternoon. I HATE soar throats. The trend shows that I might be down for the count this weekend.

That's what I'm talking about...

2008-12-10T21:10:00.000-08:00

1. Ahhh, the end of the year. We close out our end of the year production goals at the office over the next 10 days. Most of the dead-lines for our production goals are this Friday. It was not looking very good two weeks ago but some hard work at the end and determination has paid off. There are a few minor hurdles, but I feel good that we'll finish with success.

2. Biggest Loser Bridge Edition... 12 weeks are over. I didn't win but I feel I made a very good dent in my goals. To think that I would lose about 45 lbs was a dream from the start. I had a bad last two weeks, but I think work got in the way as I had a tremendous amount of stress. I still continue the good fight as I hope it was a life-style change. I plan to continue posting my results every Monday morning as I need that accountability.

3. The economy is real scary. I never quite thought that it would have an impact on insurance. A lot of people assume that our industry shouldn't be hurting as "People always need insurance". It is true, but people are not purchasing the cars and the homes. I keep pressing the staff that we need to work through this and find the business as it requires harder work.

This is my 3rd year of the agency and our 3rd Winter Season. We have never had a bad November or December even though it is typical for an insurance office to experience slow business. This by far has been the most difficult time as business is down about 50%. I'm calling this our 1st normal slow down for November and December, but I'm expecting things to change with the office in January. I'll stay positive as I try not to think about the "tough business decisions" that business owners make. I believe we can work ourselves out of the slow-down as it requires us to work harder. Please be praying for us!

4. Do I still believe in the stock market? After the September/October crash, I was down 66%. Yikes! Since then I have been very blessed and only down 20%. I'm not sure what the future holds, but I hope that I can make-up the 20% over the next 60 days. It is still a great time to invest as these next 24 months are some huge opportunities to make some serious gains.

Shipping Arrival

2008-12-03T21:26:00.000-08:00

I was so excited today as all my shipments came in which will clinch my victory for the Biggest Loser Bridge Edition. Here is a list of what came:

1. Imported Tape Worms - the instructions show that they will work 6 hours after digestion.

2. Home Liposuction Kit - already put the kit together and now watching Dr. 90210 to view his technique. It is suggested to limit to 5 lbs of suction on the 1st use.

3. Kidney Removal Video - this is a presentational video that was shipped to me as I will consider donating my Kindney. Some charity group in India is willing to pay for my plane tickets. They promise to take great care of me and suggest that if I fly out Friday, I'll be home in time to weigh on Monday. This sounds really safe so far. I'm still trying to google to figure out how much a Kidney weighs.

4. A new scale that I just purchased on ebay that guarantees that I'll weigh less on the 1st use. How does that work?

The ship that did not sink

2008-11-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

Did you know that our family blood goes back to being passengers on the Mayflower. Here is a list of things we do not know but fair to assume from the stories and legends passed down over the many years.

1. We started the tradition of eating turkey after teaching the Indians how to deep fry the bird as opposed to roasting over the fire.
2. The Indians showed us corn, we became farmers. Therefore, the creation of ethanol is because of us.
3. "Black Friday" is a result of us killing off Indians by giving them the common cold the next day after we just celebrated the 1st Thanksgiving.
4. You can credit the "4 Day Weekend" to us as we had the idea of doing Thanksgiving on Thursday as opposed to Friday to give hard workers an extra break.
5. We created this holiday as we were very jealous of all the cool things the Indians had.... so we taught the Inidans that "Thanksgiving" meant they had to share all those things with us and be happy about it. We really didn't have much to share back. I think that is what really made the Indians mad at us which started the tension between us two camps.

I like Black

2008-11-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

Blue has always been my favorite color. The NBC's Biggest Loser show has turned me off to the Blue Team. This is the 1st season I really hate watching as the Blue Team is something of words that can't be posted.

Did anyone hate watching last night as well? I had to fast forward through anything with Vicky. It was really sad to see Amy get kicked off last night as she had such a great heart.

3 Week Recipie

2008-11-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

I am determined to win!

Tuesday Thoughts...

2008-11-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

1. Are we the 1st house to set-up for Christmas? We set-up on Sunday... I think we have more Holiday Cheer? My challenge out there is to see others decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving.

2. The Biggest Loser TV edition has some huge drama. I just can't stand the blue team. I almost started hating the show going into last Tuesday until a person defected and voted a blue person off the team. This made last night a must see to see if Amy would once again vote against her blue team. That said... they totally gave away next weeks results.

At the end of the show, they always do the sneak peak for next week. We have the show recorded, but if you watch the "next week" in slow motion... it shows one of the black team members on the scale with 4 of the weight totals and % from 4 of the Blue team members weighing in. It is probably only about 1/10 of a second in real time. I wonder if the person from the editing room knew what they did by accident for us DVR freaks.

3. The economy has some challenges. We all know that the business climate is not the way it was 2 years ago. I just keep telling myself to stay positive and do the best job. To be a success requires us to change our business planning and adapt to the economic conditions.

4. Turkey Trot... we are totally in if the weather is ok or better. I'm excited as I have never done this before. I think we'll get registered once we can see the weather forcast... rain is a deal breaker. Who else is doing this?

5. Speaking of Turkey... we got a $20lb turkey for less than $6. A small Winco chicken costs about that. Maybe we'll load up on 5 turkeys for 2009. Don't forget that Winco sells Prime Rib for like $2 or $3 per pound for December. We loaded up last year and it was the best thing we did for 2008. We still have 2 Prime Ribs from last year... we cut up some of these into steaks. Purchase in bulk, it'll save your food budget for next year!

Computers Don't Like Water....

2008-11-03T09:32:00.000-08:00

Late Saturday night the computer wasn't working so well. In fact, the letters being typed were either of the same letters or the letter and also 4 other random letters. I'd hit the space bar and get an X. I'd hit the letter s and get # signs.

So, I restared the computer thinking this would fix it. Guess what, our computer has a password and the letters still didn't work! So I couldn't even now get into the computer to try and do a "system restore" which puts the computers settings to an earlier date. This usually fixes a lot of bad things going wrong. I went into "safe mode" and did a system restore... didn't work.

Now I am off to Circuit City. We managed to get the password correct... it was tricky, but we found out that plugging in an external keyboard worked. The hard-drive was tested.... just fine. The Keyboard driver was working. Next question from the geek, "Is it possible you spilled water in the computer?" I'm thinking "no". We popped off the keys to the laptop and found water drops all over.

We found out that Ally poured a dixie cup of water on the laptop as she was watering a fake flower that Emily was holding!

So, I popped off about 60% of the keys on the laptop and dried them all up. There was no longer a visual of any water at this point and the keys still are not working... but getting better. My fear was that we had water in the laptop still.

The laptop stayed in front of a fan for the next 16 hours.... tested the laptop and it is now working just fine. This could have been a very costly error by our kids this weekend and we are so happy that the computer is working.

That said, try going without a computer for 24 hours... it is terrible not knowing what is going on in the world.