My Hometown

Willard's Winners Week 2

2008-09-04T16:08:00.004-05:00

Hey there folks, Willard walked down to the Sac N' Suds and gave me a call with this weeks picks. Peruse them and tell me what you think.

West Virginia vs. Eastern Carolina: The Mountain Men from Morgantown will descend from their lofty lands looking to shoot it out with the Pirates from Eastern Carolina. West Virginia's sharp shooters are trained and quick. They will load those squirrel guns and blast away at Skipper Skip Holtz's Schooner, but Captain Holtz's Buccaneers are tough and will repel the Mountaineer attack.
Willard's Winner... Eastern Carolina

Oregon St. vs. Penn St.: The Beavers from the wild wild west are heading to Happy Valley to build a log jam in Penn State's BCS bowl hopes. The Beavers will gnaw on and fell some of those sweet Pensylvania Poplars, but Joe Pa will have his Nittany Lions growling mad. The will descend out of the hills and devour the pesky rodents of Corvalis.
Willard's Winner... Penn St.

Marshall vs. Wisconsin: Willard's Winner... Whoever does not have to watch this game!

South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt: Spurrier's Chickens put a peckin' on the Wolfpack of N.C. State last week. The Pullet's are prancing around like a single rooster in a hen coop. Spurrier will lead his Gamecocks up to Nashville with the aim of keeping keeping their winning ways rolling. The Ole Ball Coach will have those chickens ready to scratch, but will find the Commodore's fleet a bit tougher than the Wimppack. The Commodore will train his guns on the Chickens but will find them hard to hit, and Spurrier's boys will rule the roost.
Willard's Winner... South Carolina

Miami vs. Florida: The Tropical Depressions from South Florida will move their depressing form of ball north to Gainesville. They will spit rain and blow a little, but Mayer's Gators are tough skinned and used to these kinds of storms. The swamp may fill up a bit, but the Gators will weather this storm.
Willard's Winner: As much as Willard hates to say it... Florida

And last but not least:

Central Michigan vs. Georgia: The Chippewas of Central Michigan are on the warpath wanting to count coup and collect a few Bulldog pelts. Coach Richt and his hounds have a juicy steak dangling in front of them and the Chippewas are in the way. The Native Americans may shoot a few arrows, but they will find out that, that Dawg will bite you!
Willard's Winner... Georgia!

Whooaa Nellie!

2008-08-25T10:55:00.003-05:00

Well gang, college football is back, and so is Willard. As you know, Bonnie and I were married in the middle of the football season last year, so Willard refused to call me with his prognostications. He told me that he read in the Bible that the men of Israel were not to go to war the first year that they were married, so he figured I shouldn't be bothered with blogging his prognostications. He, however, is excited about this season because his beloved Dawgs are ranked #1 and has called me from the Sac n' Suds with his picks for this opening weekend of College Football. So, without delay, and with no further adieu: Here are Willard's Winners...

North Carolina State vs. South Carolina: The Wolves from the north will wander to the southern feasting grounds hunting for a few chickens to devour. Coach Spurrier's Pullets have strengthened their coop over the last few years, and are ready to come to scratch. The Wolfpack will encircle Columbia, but Spurrier's Fightin' Chickens will peck their way to a victory.

Willard's Winner: South Carolina

Wake Forest vs. Baylor: The Demon Deacons of Wake Forest have called a special meetin' to discuss the activities of the pastors in training at Baylor. The Deacon offensive committee will inspect the Preacher's philosophy on football, and find it liberal at giving up points.

Willard's Winner: Wake Forest

USC vs. Virginia: The boys from Troy will load their ships heavy with armor and swords setting sail to raid Charlottesville. The Queen's men defended the Queen quite well last year, but their most valiant Cavalier has moved on to the senior league. The Cavaliers with defend their castle valiantly, but the Trojans will steal away with a win. Willard's Winner: Them danged ole Trojans

Akron vs. Wisconsin: Willard's Winner: Whoever is not forced to watch this game!

Whoa Nellie! the Donnybrook GAME OF THE WEEK!

Alabama vs. Clemson: The Crimson Pachyderms from Tuscaloosa will travel I-20 to Death Valley trying to stomp on Coach Bowden and his Cheetahs. The Crimson Pachyderms have mad a lot of noise with their elongated snouts the last couple of seasons, but Cheetahs will run all around them this weekend. Willard's Winner: Clemson

Last, but certainly not least:

Georgia Southern vs. Georgia: The Screamin' Eagles of Georgia Southern are flying north to the Junk Yard looking to pluck Coach Richt's chances for a National Championship right out of his hands. The Dawgs are a few pups shy of their usual pack, but are ready to cancel the Eagles' flight plans. The Eagles will claw and peck a bit, but won't have any of the magical waters of Eagle creek to refresh them. All they will see is a pack of wild hounds and some tall hedges to hem them in. Willard's Winner: Georgia!

You might have noticed the picture at the top. Willard wanted me to tell you about his best friend BillyJoe. BillyJoe entered the Redneck Olympics this year. He competed in the Individual Mud Hole Belly Flop. This was his first Olympics and he came away with the Gold (plated) Trophy! Way to go BillyJoe!

Some funny stuff...

2008-05-19T11:32:00.005-05:00

Hey gang,

In case you were wondering, here is one of the things you do to kill time when you don't have a job. I found these funny t-shirts for my and your amusement.

Expelled...No Intelligence Allowed...

2008-05-04T19:22:00.009-05:00

This past week I went to see Ben Stein's new movie, Expelled, No Intelligence Allowed. It was an interesting and well produced expose of the supression of academic freedom in the area of science. Stein tells the story of a scientist at the Smithsonian Institute that had the audacity to publish an article that mentioned intelligent design theory. This scientist was removed from his position and ostracised in the scientific community. Stein then shows that this was not an isolated incident, and that this is in fact the modus operadi for the scientific community.

Stein then goes on to interview many of the Atheist Darwinist elite. Stein does an excellent job of asking pertinent questions of those devoted to Darwin, and shows that they are holding fast to their Darwinist pre-suppositions, and squashing freedom to protect their own held beliefs. They are squashing academic freedom to protect their priviledged places rather than pursuing truth. Stein effectively shows that there is no room for those proposing Intelligent Design in the Darwinist controlled playground. He shows that the Darwinists are acting off of their own presuppositions and not scientific enquiry. Stein shows that the current Godless, Darwinist paradigm is in crisis, and is fighting to preserve itself.

Some important points for Christians:

Remember Ben Stein is not a Christian, and his main purpose is not to promote the truth that there is one God, the father of Jesus Christ, who is our intelligent designer.
Notice that all that promote Intelligent Design are not our friends. Some I.D. promoters would say that the ones who provided the intelligent design that makes up our cells, systems, world, galaxy, etc; are in fact aliens and not Yahweh our creator.

Some funny moments in the movie:

Make sure to note the lunacy of the scientist who claims that the first cell came into being when strands of protiens joined together on the backs of mutated crystals. This guy thinks this is good science and good thinking!
Pay attention to the end of the movie when Ben Stein backs Richard Dawkins into a corner about where the first atom/cells came from. Watch how Dawkins squirms, angers, and refuses to answer Stein's question.

Saddest moment in the movie:

There is a scientist who has survived cancer, and states that he is waiting for it to return. He gives an explanation that shows the sadness of living without God in your life. This scientist takes Darwinism to the logical extreme which shows that there is no freedom in Darwinism. That is to say, in Darwinism, all things are pre-determined, and there is absolutely no freedom of the will or action. The logical outcome of Darwinism is that there is no afterlife, and therefore no hope for mankind. Since there is no hope for mankind then we all might as well wait to die, which is what this scientist is waiting for. No hope for him in this life or the next. May it be that the Gospel would find him and that he might be saved. Therefore, Christian; sing a new song to the LORD for the love and hope he has given to you through Jesus Christ!

Chattahoochie National Forrest

2008-03-29T10:19:00.004-05:00

Bon and I had a wonderful day in the Chattahoochie National Forrest. We drove around, saw the sights, and enjoyed sitting and watching the river go by. Bonnie enjoyed throwing rocks in the river. It was a good break from the hustle and bustle of our normal everyday lives.

Just found a gem...

2008-02-27T23:32:00.002-06:00

Hey guys, thanks for being part of my wedding, and my life.

Y'all are great.

Sorry if I offend...

2008-01-31T22:37:00.000-06:00

I have been reading a good bit on the Emerging Church here lately. All that I have read shows me a group that is seriously misguided and theologically dangerous. Now don't start on me that I am lumping the good with the bad, I can't spend time naming names: this one good, this one bad. However, in my reading and research I did find some disturbing things and these interesting pics.

From my understanding, here is the real problem with those who lead the Emerging Church. These guys have the issue of authority completely wrong. They are enslaved to their feelings and to deconstruction ideals and reject Biblical authority. They would never admit to that fact but in practice they do. Most Emergents have a wrong or poor understanding of the Doctrine of Sin, and thereby are missinformed in every other part of their Theology.

A poor understanding of sin and the absolute need for atonement for that sin breeds arrogance like this. True understanding of your fallen estate will keep you humble and away from thoughts like this.

I believe that the Emerging Church's view of the Church is one of the real danger they pose.

A weak stance on heaven and hell, and the doctrine of sin will bite you in all sorts of ways.

Yes, there are many portions of scripture that cause us to think. However, God has revealed himself and truth is possible to obtain through that revelation. We have answers, and right ones at that. We can be confident in our answers because the one from who we receive our answers, is perfect in his knowledge and in perfect in his presentation of his answers.

I'd like to think I was as cool as the other side of the pillow, but...

2007-12-17T10:02:00.000-06:00

So, one of the coolest things that has ever happened to me happened this weekend. I was in Fort Worth for my friend Nathan's graduation. I had a great time catching up with my friends. The weekend was great, but Sunday proved a great surprise for me.

I was in the airport, waiting on my flight home, when who should I see but one of my childhood idols, Herschel Walker! Most of you will probably not understand this, but any boy growing up in Georgia in the 1980's only has one real hero, Herschel. Herschel was and still is the best running back ever to grace a football field. He embarrassed defenses and flattened defenders all over the SEC and the rest of the College Football universe. Herschel set the record for most yards rushing as a freshman, and won the Heisman Trophy in 1982. He certainly would have won it again, but rather chose to leavc Georgia early for pro ball. Folks, where I come from Herschel is a legend. He is the best thing since boiled peanuts, and to talk bad about him is akin to talking bad about somebody's Mamma.

But I digress, So I am sitting in my little chair in the airport, when what do my eyes behold, but my hero walking through the terminal. I immediately rubbed my eyes and looked again to make sure that it was all real, and it was! Herschel Walker, right there, not 20 yards away from me! I knew right then and there that this was my chance to meet my hero. So I did what every real Georgia fan would do, I stalked Herschel till the poor fellow had a seat. Luckily, he was on the same flight I was, so he actually walked right over to where I had been sitting. I took a deep breath, mustered up all the cool I had in me, and as non-chalantly as I could, I walked over to Herschel, stuck out my hand, and shook Herschel's hand. He smiled that big Herschel smile and said hello. I stumbled through hello, and it's nice to meet you. Herschel told me hello and ended with God Bless You. I am not real sure if he said anything else. I left and went back to my seat feeling like a dork, but a dork who met one of his heroes.

One observation: When we arrived in Atlanta, everyone on the plane went down to get their bags, and then go home. While waiting on our bags, Herschel was mobbed by a gang of ravenous fans. He signed every autograph that was asked for, and even talked with one guys wife on the phone he jammed in Herschel's face. He did it all with great grace and kindness, and ended every interaction with the words: God Bless You. Herschel could have been a jerk, grabbed his bag and run out of the airport,(Which one of us could have cought him, or tackled him!) but rather he showed how class an act he really is.

I think this is the real reason Herschel is so dearly loved in Georgia. Yes, he carried our hopes and dreams with that football. Yes, he was immensely talented, and did some amazing things on the pitch. Herschel laid flat all those bullies we wanted to squash ourselves. And yes, Herschel helped us feel like winners even when we had no real part of the teams he was on. But the real reason we love Herschel Walker is that he did all those things, the bowl wins, the thousands of yards, the Heisman, et al; with great class and poise. Herschel Walker is a hero you can respect. Barry who?

Some wedding pics...

2007-10-21T21:13:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang,

Here are some pics of our wedding. Please feel free to share with us any that you might have taken. We would love to have them. Wicked Mad Props to Donna McDonnall for these beauties.

Here are my beautiful Bride and I.

The Most Beautiful ladies to ever have graced Jacksonville Beach, FL

None of whom are cursed!

Thanks to all of you who helped make our wedding special. We love you all and appreciate the sacrifices you made to be a part of our wedding. Thank You.

Angela and Geo recessing

Lar Lar and Natron doing the same.

The Wedding Party, the Pastor, and the Parents

More pics from Curacao...

2007-10-14T14:10:00.000-05:00

There were tons of things to do in Curacao.

Being an island, there are all kinds of water sports.

Curacao is known for its scuba diving.

Just off the beach 40 yards from the beach, you could see all kinds of fish and corals.

There were also a lot of people who went sea kayaking.

The Seadoo was used to tow people past the waves.

Working for this company must be a hard job, because they had

hammocks for the workers to nap in on the side of the building!

This is the Otrobanda side of Willemstad as seen from the Punda side.

Here, Bo is standing on the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge in Willemstad.

It crosses the waterway separating the two sides of the city.

Thousands of people cross over this bridge everyday, but the waterway is also used by ships.

So, sometimes they take the bridge and swing it out of the way for ships to pass.

People just wait on the bridge for it to be put back in place, so that they

can go about their business.

This is the Reception area of the Marriott Hotel.

In front of me is the beautiful waterfall.

Behind me is the wonderful vaulted ceilieng and entryway.
And Yes, the reception area of this hotel is open air!
Bo and I were greeted when we arrived with a glass

of cold fruit juice and a cold towel to refreshen us.

Here is another beautiful Curacao sunset.

Y'all didn't know I was famous did you...

2007-10-11T11:08:00.000-05:00

Y'all will not believe what happened to me today! I was eating breakfast in McDonald's up on Signal Mountain this morning, minding my own business, when this kid comes up to me and asks: "Are you that guy that builds motorcycles on TV?" I told him I was not, and he ran quickly to his Mom. A couple of bites of Sausage biscuit later, this woman walks up to me with her kid and a digital camera. She proceeds to ask me if I would take a picture with her son. I went on to tell her that I was not who she thought I was, but she insisted that I was. She kept on asking if her son could get his picture made with me, and explained that she loved watching me on the Discovery Channel. It got to the point that I had to show her my driver's license so that she would believe I was not Paul Teutel Sr. It was comical. But my real question is:

Do I look this old?

A Few more Honeymoon pics...

2007-10-08T16:47:00.000-05:00

Well, here they are, a couple more pics of our holiday in Curacao!

This is a picture of our hotel from the ocean in front of it.

Bo and I had this beach to ourselves for a few hours one day.

This is the Pool at the Marriott.

One day, Bo and I went for a cruise on a sailboat, the Insulinde.

Here are Bo and I on the ship.

We went snorkeling and swimming.

The cruise was great.

This is the Avila Hotel. Bo and I went to

the hut on the right to eat one night.

The restaraunt was called Blues, and had live

music by a local band the night we went.

It was great.

Back from the Honeymoon...

2007-10-07T13:23:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang,

As most of you know, Bo and I were hitched on the 28th of September. What I remember of it was beautiful. I thank all of you that had a part in the Wedding.

Bo and I then headed to Curacao, Netherlands Antilles for our Honeymoon. We had a wonderful time. The weather was great, and the scenery wonderful. We stayed at a beautiful hotel, with all the ammenities one could ask for. We played at the beach, shopped in Willemstad (the capitol), and even went on a cruise where we snorkeled, and swam in the crystal blue waters. We had a GREAT time.

Below are just a few of the pictures we took while on Holiday in Curacao.

Here are my Beautiful Bride and I getting ready to eat dinner on the beach

with a beautiful Curacao sunset

The colors in Curacao are bright and fun. These are some tables

that sat next to where Bo and I hung out on the beach.

You can see the thatched huts in the background.

Here is the view from our room. We stayed on the first floor,

and woke to this view everyday. Palm trees, beautiful green grass

and the sound of the ocean about 40 yards away!

This is Willemstad, the capital of Curacao. All of the buildings are painted with these beautiful pastel colors. As you will notice, the buildings are built in the Dutch style. Curacao was settled by the Dutch, and is still governed by Holland.

This is an alleyway in Willemstad.

Sorry, but I had to do this.
Here I am at the beach. You will notice my brightly colored cap.
I made friends with a Dutchman who is hair challenged like myself.
Dik, who is about 6'2", pretty big, and has tatoos all over his body
crochets caps like this one in his spare time. He saw the sunburn on top of my head
and told me that he would give me a cap to help keep the sun off my head.
Later that evening I hear Dik yelling, "Chris, Chris, here is your hat!"
It did a great job of keeping me from getting sunburned!

Willard's Winners... Week 3...

2007-09-19T21:47:00.000-05:00

Well, Willard has a new job. He had been counting on his Prognosticatin' and his Dirt Track Racin' to pay the bills, but it hasn't worked out. It seems Willard lost all of his dirt track races because he was too careful a driver. You see Willard's Mom always told him, that if there is someone driving too fast behind you , then you should let them pass you and go on. He did it every race, and lost them everyone. It has worked out for the best though. Mr. Harve Newman wanted to start a new limo company, and was looking for a driver. When he heard about Willard's good driving record, he hired him on the spot!

Well, enough of that. Here are Willard's Winners...

Texas A&M vs. Miami: The Corp of Cadets from College Station will march their way to beautiful Miami looking to have a little fun in the sun. The Hurricanes will spit a sprinkle or two, but the Aggies will weather this storm. Willard's Winner... Texas A&M

William & Mary vs. Virginia Tech: Willard said he doesn't understand why the NCAA would allow two teams to join together against one team. But he did say this, even though William & Mary get to play together against the Hokies, they had better watch out 'cause those Turkey's will put a peckin' on you. Willard's Winner... Virginia Tech

Penn St. vs. Michigan: The Wolverines showed a little of the tenacity that they are known for last week. This week they will welcome Joe Pa's Nittany Lions to the Big Den in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines will bear their teeth and claws, but the Nittany Lions will find the Wolverines a meaty morsel. Willard's Winner... Penn St.

Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: The Notre Dame faithfull are surely offering Hail Mary's and Our Fathers at a blistering pace for this debacle of a season. The Fightin' Irish will come ready to clash with the Spartans, but it will be the Celts that go home on their shields.
Willard's Winner... Michigan State

Maryland vs. Wake Forrest: The Terrapins from College Park will lumber their way south to take on the Demon Deacons of Wake Forrest. Those Demon Deacons will get together in a dark corner somewhere and raise a bit of ruckuss in this called meeting. But those Turtles have a tough shell. Willard's Winner... Maryland

Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma St.: The Red Raiders will lead their gang into Stillwater looking to wrangle a few choice cattle from the Cowboys' herd. A lot of lead will be thrown down that field, by both sides, but in the end the boys from Stillwater will be a little handier with the steel.
Willard's Winner... Oklahoma St.

Kentucky vs. Arkansas: Whoa Nellie! Since when did Kentucky become a football school? After last weeks whoopin' of Louisville, the Wildcats will wander west to Arkansas looking to claw the Razorbacks. After the Big Tussle in Tuscaloosa the Hogs are a little tired and the waller is vulnerable to Wildcat attack. But in the end the two hoss Hogs will run all over the Wildcats.
Willard's Winner... Arkansas

Iowa vs. Wisconsin: Willard's Winner... Whoever does not have to watch this game!

And Last But Certainly Not Least!

Georgia vs. Alabama: Coach Saban has his Red Pachyderms believing that they are the best team in the SEC, and they are playing pretty close to it. Coach Richt and his Junk Yard Dawgs will march to Tuscaloosa looking to put a bite onto the Pachyderm Parade. The Crimson Tide faithful are ravenous this year, and will be unhospitable towards our Silver Britches. The Red Wave will wash over the Bulldogs several times, but Uga will be chained tight and won't wash away. Willard's Winner... Georgia!

I can't believe I am actually saying this, but I believe that the Dawgs just aren't tough enough this year to beat coach Saban's Crimson Tide.

Willard's Winners Week 3...

2007-09-13T10:09:00.000-05:00

Well hello my fellow Football Fans, and welcome to the third installment of Willard's Winners for 2007. Willard did not fare so well last week. He is extremely upset about last weeks debacle in Athens. He does not understand why there is not an ongoing investigation into the obvious cheating that took place there last Saturday. He said, and I quote; "Everybody knows that the Ole' ball coach is cheating, cause there is no way his kickin' chickens could beat my DAWGS. Why doesn't the NCAA do something about it!" I am a little worried about him, he hasn't even touched his eggs and pig brains this week. It's his favorite you know.

Well, enough of that. Here are Willard's Winners for week 3:

West Virginia vs. Maryland: The Poor Mountaineers of Morgantown will invade College Park looking to keep their families fed on some Turtle Stew. Coach Friedgen and his Terrible Terrapins will try to defend their shell. Oh, those Terrapins will snap a few times, and even hold onto those Mountaineers for a while, but in the end the Mountaineers will consume some Turtle consomme. Willard's Winner... West Virginia

Central Michigan vs. Perdue: Whoa Nellie! What a barn burner, that nobody, and Willard means NOBODY cares about. Willard's Winner...Whoever does not have to watch this game!

Mississipi St. vs. Auburn: Coach Croom and his Bullpups will wander onto the Plain this weekend looking to chew the corner of Auburn's finest Sofa. Coach T and his Tigers have already rolled up their newspapers and will swat that Bullpup! Willard's Winner...Auburn

Notre Dame vs. Michigan: The 0 and 2 Fighting Irish will face off against the 0 and 2 Wolverines this weekend......(Sorry, Willard couldn't talk through the laughter...). The Golden Domers will tie one on trying to get loose for this game, but Coach Carr's job is on the line, so his Blue and Maize Boys will be on the attack. At the end of an ugly game, it is only a shame; that both can't lose. Willard's Winner... Michigan

Arkansas vs. Alabama: The Razorbacks of Arkansas will make the trip south to Tuscaloosa hoping to root around and find a win. Coach Saban's Pachyderms have stomped that field flat the past couple of weeks hoping to make it hard to dig up. There is just one problem, they just didn't stomp the endzone enough, so Coach Nutt's pigletts will find that soft soil, and just waller there for a while. Willard's Winner... Arkansas

USC vs. Nebraska: Well, Pete Carroll will find himself in an unfamiliar place this weekend. I am sure that he has protested, and the NCAA has told him he must play. You see, coach Carroll does not play more than 2 top 25 teams a season, and this year he may have to play 3. But enough tongue in cheek.
The Boys from Troy will sail their mighty armada to Lincoln looking to steal a stack of corn big enough to feed their mighty army for a National Championship run. Those cornfed farmboys from Nebraska's fields may not know much about swordsmanship, but they can put up a fight. The Cornhuskers will fill their tractors with ethanol and try to shuck the Trojans, but in the end those Trojan swords will jam up the Cornhusker's works. Willard's Winner... USC. (Extra Comments have been Edited for content)

Boston College vs. Georgia Tech: Whoa Nellie! What a game! The Beantown Brawlers vs. the Ramblin' Wreck. Willard must say, that though he hates GA Tech, he is pleasantly surprised by their gumption this year. He told me: The Beantown Badboys will swagger into Atlanta determined to steal that Floppy Georgia Tech Jaloppy. The Beantown Badboys will find out however that those bees have stingers!
Willard's Winner...In the Donnybrook Game of the Week (and it is painful to say) Georgia Tech

Tennesse vs. Florida: Coach Fulmer will march his Volunteer Army to the Swamp looking to feed off of a little Gator tail. They really enjoyed that succulent appetizer last time they were there. Unfortunately, Coach Fulmer will find out that Coach Meyer has toughened those Gators up, and they are just not sweet anymore. The Vols will fire a few rounds into that tough Gator flesh, but the Vols will feel that Gator chomp...in the end... . Willard's Winner... Florida

And last But certainly not least...

Western Carolina vs. Georgia: The Catamounts will leave their dens in the Mountains of Carolina descending to the fair hills of Athens looking for a morsel of Bulldog meat. After being pecked silly by those Cheating Chickens, the Bulldogs are licking their wounds this week. The Catamounts are looking to capitalize and catch those Dawgs while they are wounded. They will find out that THAT DAWG WILL BITE YOU! Willard's Winner... Georgia

Willard's Winners Week 2...

2007-09-06T19:00:00.000-05:00

Willard was nine for twelve last week. He is still reeling from the Appalachian State win over Michigan. He, like many others contemplated leaving the prognostication world after that debacle. I have reminded him that "Prognosticatin' " is his calling, so Willard said he would keep sending me his picks for a little while.

Y'all might not remember, but this Saturday is Willard's Birthday. He will be__, well, we don't really know when Willard was born. You see Willard flooded the trailer when he was four. Willard and his folks lived near the river. Willard's Mom used to send Willard outside to play, and he threw sticks and logs in the river all the time. One year, a heavy rain came, and the dam Willard built backed up that water, and floated the singlewide off the foundation. It was never seen again. (More later about this. Boy do I have a picture and story about this.)

But anyway, Back to Willard. Willard's Momma sent me a picture of last year's cake. I thought you might want to see it.

Well, enough of that, here are Willard's Winners...

Miami vs. Oklahoma: The Hurricanes are moving deep inland to the plains of Oklahoma looking to rain on the Sooner parade. The Hurricanes will push forward their best Storm Surge, but the Boomer Schooner will send these Hurricanes home with a Tropical Depression. Willard's Winner... Oklahoma

Duke vs. Virginia: What a game this will be. The real question in this one is if either team will actually score! These are the two worst teams in the ACC, and that is where the tension for this game arises. Both teams will want to win, so as to stay out of the ACC cellar. The Blue Devils will do their best to stab the Queen's men with their pitchforks, but the Cavaliers will parry the Duke thrust, and strike with their rapiers. Willard's Winner... Virginia

West Virginia vs. Marshall: The Thundering Herd of Marshall will try a repeat of last week's cinderella story by trampling the Mountaineers of West Virginia. But the herd is a little smaller and slower than it used to be, and the Mountaineers will dwindle the herd a little more with their accurate rifles. Willard's Winner... West Virginia

NC State vs. Boston College: Coach Tom O'Brien and his Ravenous Wolfpack will head to Beantown looking to pluck the Eagles of Boston College. The wolves will circle and pounce but in the end, the Eagles will feast on Wolf flesh. Willard's Winner... Boston College

Fresno State vs. Texas A&M: The Bulldogs of Fresno State will wander down to College Station this weekend trying to steal a little bit of Reveille's kibble. The Cadets will be on their guard, and the cheer team will call the Aggies to come carve that California Canine. Willard's Winner... Texas A&M

Southern Miss vs. Tennessee: The Rebels from Oxford will march their army up the Tennessee River to Knoxville to squabble with the embattled Volunteer Army. The boys in Blue and Red will give a mighty Rebel yell, but the boys in Orange will repel the Rebel attack. Willard's Winner... Tennessee

Miami of Ohio vs. Minnesota: Willard's Winner... Whoever does not have to watch this game!

Notre Dame vs. Penn St.: The hot blooded Celts from Southbend will be looking to get their Irish up after last weeks shillelagh shellacking at the hands of the Yellowjackets. The Fightin' Irish will bring their best brawl to Happy Valley only to find Joe Pa's Nittany Lions with bared teeth and claws. Willard's Winner... Penn St.

TCU vs. Texas: Mack Brown's Bovine's are calling the Vet looking for some serious medicine to cure their slowstartitis. This week, the Horned Frogs of TCU will scamper to Austin looking to spread a little reptile rhematism to the Longhorns. The Horned Frogs will scamper all over that field, and even into the endzone several times, but in the end will meet a Longhorn's hoof. Willard's Winner... In a good game... Texas

Virginia Tech vs. LSU: Whoa Nellie! Beamer Ball is heading to Red Stick to face off with the Bayou Bengals. The hardened Hokies will bring their special brand of stick it to ya special teams and stifling defense to Death Valley looking to peck the Tigers into submission. Les Miles' Tigers will bring their daunting defense too, and will show how tough their offensive hides are as well. Willard's Winner...In the Donnybrook game of the Week... LSU

And last but certainly not least...

South Carolina vs. Georgia: The DEVIL's goin' down to Georgia looking for a win to steal. He's in a bind, cause he's way behind and he's willing to make a deal.

The Ole' Ball Coach has rosined up his bow,and will try to play that Gamecock fiddle hard but he'll find that heaven's broke loose at Georgia and Coach Richt deals the cards! Willard's Winner... Georgia!

Willard's Back...

2007-08-29T23:43:00.000-05:00

Well, I called my Aunt and got the number to the Sac O' Suds near where my cousin Willard is staying. He had to sneak out in the middle of the night to get away from Charlene. (She is a little more violent than we knew about.) But enough of that. Willard is excited about another College Football season. As a matter of fact, when I called him he yelled into the phone the whole time. I explained that I could hear him well, but he kept on yelling. He said he was as excited as coondog on a trail, so I just held the phone away from my ear. (Y'all pray for Bonnie as she is marrying into my family, and will have to put up with Willard calling every week.)

Well, without further guiding of the lily and with no more adieu:
Here is the First Installment of
Willard's Winners 2007:

Buffalo vs. Rutgers: The Buffs will thunder down to Jolly ole Jersey looking to graze heavily on the Queen's Pasture. However, the Scarlet Knights from Jersey's fair plains will break three lances on the boys from Buffalo becoming the champions of the field. Willard's Winner... Rutgers

Murray St. vs. Louisville: The Cardinals of Kentucky will fly high over the Racers of Murray St. Willard's Winner...Louisville. It's hard to get excited about some games!

LSU vs. Mississippi St.: Those fake bullpups from Starkville should not tread on Georgia's fine mascot, and Les Miles' Bayou Bengals will give them a good comeupance so that they might learn from their mistakes. Willard's Winner... LSU

Weber St. vs. Boise St. : Willard said that this would be a fine game to watch if you liked to watch gimmick teams that can't really play football. He says that he is waiting to see how Boise St. does this year before he calls them legit. But he did say the Broncos would win this one. Willard's Winner... Boise St.

Eastern Carolina vs. Virginia Tech: The Pirates of Eastern Carolina will sail into beautiful Blacksburg looking to pillage some of that Hokie gold, but Beamer and his tough old gamebirds will peck the fool out of the purple Pirates, sending them home with a horrible headache. Willard's Winner... Virginia Tech!

Idaho vs. USC: The Vandals will descend down the mountains to sunny Southern California looking to tan themselves and get rich at the Trojan's expense. Little do they know that Troy has once again recruited some of the best warriors that Asia Minor has to offer. The Vandals will find Troy unhospitable, and will leave horribly defeated. Willard's Winner... USC.
(Y'all just don't know how much I had to edit this one. Willard hates USC)

Florida St. vs. Clemson: Those South Carolina Cheatahs have sharpened their claws and brought a mighty good fight to North Florida's best Braves over the last couple of years. This year the Seminoles will take the attack to the Tiger's den. Death Valley will be a rockin', and the Cheatahs will claw and spit, but in the end, Bowden's Braves will spear themselves some tiger meat. Willard's Winner... Florida St.

Baylor vs. TCU: The Fightin' Baptists from Baylor will make the two hour drive north to Fort Worth looking to Convert those Horned Disciples of Christ. They will try an evangelism explosion, and run a few steps to peace with God, and will even try to keep the FAITH, but in the end those Baylor Boys will find those Horned Frogs too thick skinned to convert.
Willard's Winner... TCU

Georgia Tech vs. Notre Dame: Willard says that this battle of the Gold Domers will be one of the better games of the day. The Ramblin' Wreck will drive that floppy jaloppy to South Bend looking to steal a victory from the Friars. Who knows, with no Reggie Ball, they might actually do it! Who are we kiddin', the prayers of the Notre Dame faithful will availeth much.
Willard's Winner... Notre Dame

Kansas St. vs. Auburn: The Wildcats of Kansas will descend to the Prettiest little village on the Plain looking to steal some of the Tiger's choice morsels. But Coach T has once again sharpened his kitties' claws in the off season, and his Tigers will show that their bite is much worse than their growl. Willard's Winner... Auburn (Watch out Toomer's Corner! This will be the first TP of many this season!)

Tennesse vs. Cal: Whoa Nellie! This will be a good one! Last year, the Bears of Cal lumbered into the Volunteer Holler, only to find Fulmer's faithful to be unhospitable hosts. The Bears will look to return the favor this year by mauling the Vols in their own home den. The blue Bears will scratch, sniff, growl, and claw; but the Volunteer sharpshooters will fire their squirrel guns way too fast, and come home with a nice bearskin rug.
Willard's Winner... In the Donnybrook Game of the Week... Tennessee!

And last but certainly not least!

Oklahoma St. vs. Georgia: Coach Richt and his junk yard dawgs have seen that the SEC just gets no respect in the BCS. For that reason, they will welcome a rowdy outfit of Cowboys to the Classic City this weekend. The Cowboys have been out to pasture for a while, and are coming to town with six guns drawn and looking to have little fun with our beautiful Georgia Peaches. But nobody steals our best girl between the Hedges. Uga and the boys will show that they can protect our house.
Willard's Winner... In a tight one... Georgia! GO DAWGS SIC 'EM!

My New Digs...

2007-08-08T11:26:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang, I have been gone from Texas for about a month now. I am unpacked and unfortunately still unemployed. But I wanted to show those of you who have never been to Chattanooga, a little of what my new home looks like. Chattanooga, also called Chattaboogie, is a neat mid sized town of about 100,000 people. The Boogies sits just east of Signal & Lookout Mountains, and has the beautiful Tennessee river running through it. Chattanooga is covered with beautiful trees and lush green grass. The Boogie is growing and has many great attractions. Downtown Chattanooga has for the last decade been revamping itself, and is a neat place to hang out. The Tennessee Aquarium fills two buildings and has thousands of fish and sharks! Every year the Riverbend music festival brings thousands to the riverfront for some good music. There is Rock City, a spot on top of Lookout Mtn where you can see 6 states and Ruby Falls. (See pic below for Rock City) The Boogie has its own minor league Baseball team, the Chattanooga Lookouts. They are lots of fun. All together, I believe that I am going to like it here. I think you would too, so come and visit me sometime. I have an extra bed already made for you, and some adventures in my pocket for you to share.

P.S. By the way, Bonnie looks "Blingtastic" in her new Engagement ring.

Somebody worse than Lawyers...

2007-07-31T01:32:00.000-05:00

You have heard them all before, and laughed because they were true; you know, Lawyer jokes. Lawyer jokes are funny because we have all seen lawyers at their worst. We've seen ambulance chasers that prey on the hurting and uninformed. We've also seen lawyers who use loopholes to get their slimey defendants off scot free. And we've seen the slick talking, schmoozing lawyers that toot their own horns, and generally irritate to fool out of us all. But you know, I can respect lawyers to a small extent, because when they use their silver tongues, they are usually doing it for someone elses good. Sure he may be guilty, but it is to his benefit to get out of being punished. (Alright, all you seminary grads; don't lecture me on righteous punishment, I know there is another side. That argument is for later.) I can also respect lawyers somewhat because they are not the lowest form of life on the planet. I can respect lawyers, because at least they are not BANKERS!

Bankers are a pimple on the butt of humanity. You see, lawyers just lie, but Bankers lie and steal your money. Bankers steal your money every chance they get. They have a fee for this and a fee for that, and a fee for assessing fees it seems. They set up all the rules to be in their favor, then they lie and tell you that they are concerned about you. They say: "We exist for you, so that you can put your money in a safe place." Hogwash, we have banks so that Bankers can use your money to loan other people so they can charge interest and line their pockets with our money. (Have you ever noticed that the interest on your savings account is miniscule compared to what Bankers are charging on loans? Have you noticed that your bank has not gone down on any of the fees they charge you, yet everything has become automated, which Bankers sell to us as a way to keep costs down.) You'll pardon me Mr. Banker; if I don't listen to the sweet nothings you wisper in my ear while you rummage through my wallet. You don't fool me Mr. Banker. I know that you are lighting your fat Cuban cigars with the $6.00 fee you assessed me for stepping across your "hallowed" threshold one too many times last month. You know, there are men sitting in jail for doing what Bankers do everyday. I hope they all come to know the Lord Jesus Christ as their savior and lord, and like Zachaeus make ammends for their theivery. But as of right now, all Bankers do for me is make me groan for the second coming of the Christ, so that I might be rid of them forever.

P. S. Did you hear the one about the 1,000 Bankers at the bottom of the ocean?
Yeah, I thought it was a good start too!

Oh how I miss college football, and UGA the best dog ever...

2007-06-04T22:01:00.000-05:00

Well gang, I don't know about you, but it has been a tough 5 months since the last College football game. I have tried to appease myself with hockey, basketball, pro football, and baseball, but none of them cure my ills. But now we are only 2 months and some odd days away from the best season of the year. In order to get myself through these doldrums, I have put together a list of reasons why UGA is the best mascot ever. Here they are:

Top 10 reasons why UGA is the best mascot ever:

#10 He's got his own ice machine!

#9 He's tough! Pirates & Ninja's are only around

because UGA allows them to be!

#8 He's been to College!

# 7 He starred in a movie!

(with John Cusak & Kevin Spacey, he's like 2 degrees from Kevin Bacon)

#6 He was rated by SI as the most recognizable mascot!

#5 He's connected in Politics!
(Representative Bob Barr, I didn't have to tell you UGA's name now did I!)

#4 How many other dogs do you know that when he walks

out onto the field, 80,000 people look at their friends and say:

"That's a Dang Fine Dog."

#3 He's great with kids!

#2 Chicks dig him!

#1 He's got a great sense of Humor!

(someone just told UGA that Georgia Tech thought they could beat Georgia!)
(That one's for you Angela)

Me and Bonizzle

2007-05-23T09:44:00.001-05:00

Soothing to the Soul...

2007-05-08T13:25:00.000-05:00

This is Thomas a Kempis, the author of, "of the Imitation of Christ." I have been reading this devotional style work, and found it to be a challenge, and a balm unto my tired soul. I want to encourage you to read some of the classics of Christian literature. These venerable old writings keep us in contact with the Saints of old, showing us the faith as it was years ago. They remind us that the faith was "delivered once for all to the saints," and that if we stray too far from our ancient and future faith; that we need to check ourselves. They keep us from the "McDonaldization" of our faith. The classics also open for us the great learning and experiences of the Saints that often speak to our life situation. a Kempis has done this for me. He has spoken to my soul.

Piper and Lewis have also spoken of the importance of reading the Christian classics. C.S. Lewis said that for every modern book on Christianity, we should read two Christian classics. Piper whole heartedly agreed, and said it would help keep you from error.

a few quotes from a Kempis

"The greatest, and indeed the whole impediment is, that we are not disentangled from our passions and lusts, neither do we endeavor to enter into the perfect path of the saints. When any small adversity meets us, we are too quickly cast down and turn to human consolation."

"At the Day of Judgement we shall not be asked what we have read but what we have done."

Lew & Brandi

2007-04-30T08:15:00.000-05:00

These are two of my friends, Lew and Brandi. They are serving the Lord in Uganda, spreading the gospel. Lew and Brandi just had a cute little girl named Elisabeth.

When I need a good laugh...

2007-04-11T18:33:00.000-05:00

It takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile but it doesn't take any to just sit there with a dumb look on your face.

When you earnestly believe you can compensae for a lack of skill by doubling your efforts, there's no end to the things you can't do.

Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.

There is no greater joy than soaring high on the wings of your dreams except maybe the joy of watching a dreamer who has nowhere to land but the ocean of reality.

If we really cared for the customer, we'd send them somewhere better

When I need a good laugh, I go to this site, and chuckle untill I cry. Knock yourself out!

A man I respect, and some helpful info...

2007-04-03T09:24:00.000-05:00

This is Andreas Kostenberger. He is a professor at Southeastern BTS, who has written a great deal on the family, roles of men and women, egalitarianism, etc. He has also given us not a few resources that you might find helpful. Dr. Kostenberger's blog can be accessed from the link on the sidebar of this blog. You might also want to check out his list of favorite Biblical Studies Resources, and favorite New Testament Commentaries.

Standing for truth often knocks you on your hiney...

2007-03-16T08:58:00.000-05:00

Dr. Albert Mohler has found himself in the middle of a firestorm ever since he wrote
this article talking about the dangers and issues of the Genetic Diagnosing of unborn children. In this article, Mohler notes that "science" has" presumably" shown that there are biological factors that could determine a child's sexual orientation. He then goes on to note that even if there are biologic factors that point a person toward homosexual behavior, then they are still morally culpable for the sin. The Associated Press released reports on the article misquoting, and using this misunderstanding of Mohler's arguments. Dr. Mohler has since issued this article clearly restating his argument, and describing the issues at hand. You see Mohler rightly understands, and wishes to show all of his Christian readership that there are many issues at stake with enutero testing of Babies. Mohler wants us to see that even if a biological link to homosexuality is found, it is because of the devastation of sin upon mankind, and that people who practice homosexuality are still morally culpable for their actions. He also wants to show us the moral responsibility we must take to protect the lives of unborn children. Read these articles for yourself, and discern the truth of this situation.

P.S. There is a great lesson for us to learn from all of this. 1. We can and should expect to be misunderstood by those whom we call our allies. Christians of all sorts attacked Dr. Mohler for making strong statements that they did not understand. We should expect that as well. When you make a statement, there will be those who misunderstand what you are trying to say, and will crucify you for saying it.
2. The lost, and those with set agendas will rail against the truth of God's word, and will do so with more and more fervor and invictive since they have the nation's, media's, etc's ear. Expect them to be lost, for them not to understand, and even to hate you. All of these tribulations will be dealt with by our Righteous and Just God, in Hell or On the Cross.

Whether in Hell or on the Cross...

2007-02-07T09:25:00.000-06:00

Too often I take things into my own hands, even so far as stepping into God's role. I was reading Piper last night when he stepped on my toes about this habit of mine. Piper was writing about humility, when he said: "Humility does not feel a right to better treatment than Jesus got." You see, much of the time, we feel as if we that right to not be treated poorly. We have the right to everyone fulfilling our needs, whims, etc. We feel like we have a right to good service, a right to be treated with respect, a right to not be talked down to, the right to be treated well, etc. But you know, no servant is greater than his master, and our master Jesus Christ, was treated horrendously. Who are we to think that we deserve anything better? Piper went on to say that we should assume that we will be mistreated, and that we should not be indignant when we are treated poorly. This is Christlike humility, that we do not think too highly of ourselves, and that we esteem others more highly than ourselves.

So what do we do when we are wronged and treated horribly? After all, none of us like to be disrespected. Piper answers that question by pointing us to God and his greatness. Piper gives us this advice: "Peter (1Pet. 2:1-23) and Paul (Rom 12:19) give us great moral assistance in this difficult task by reminding us that God will settle all accounts justly and that temporary injustice will not be swept under the rug of the universe. It will be dealt with - on the cross or in hell. We need not avenge ourselves. We can leave it to God." So the next time that person speaks to you condescendingly, leave it to God. The next time you are reviled and put down for your beliefs, leave it to the just and righteous one. The next time your girlfriend or wife says something that "insults your intelligence" remember that the Son of God, the I Am through whom the world and wisdom was created was treated the same way; and let God handle it on the cross or in hell.

p.s. This thought of all of our hurts being taken care of on the cross or in hell really should force us to our knees in praise and thankfulness to God that our sins have been taken care of on the cross. But it should also send us to our knees in repentance for the lack of care we have towards those whose sins will be take care of in hell. May it be that when we are sinned against, we see a sin and a sinner whose transgressions might be accounted for in hell. May this knowledge compel us to tell them to flee God's wrath against sin, and run towards salvation by God's grace through faith in Christ Jesus.

Brothers/Sisters, we are not professionals...

2007-01-31T09:56:00.000-06:00

I have been reading John Piper's: Brothers, We are Not Professionals. In this book, Piper calls all pastors/leaders to: "abandon the secularization of the pastorate and pursue the prophetic call of the Bible for radical ministry." It is a call that I plan to embrace, and encourage you to do so as well. But that is not the point of this post. In his work, Piper quotes C.H. Spurgeon on the devout prayer warrior Jerome. Spurgeon says:

That was a grand action by Jerome, one of the Roman fathers. He laid aside all the pressing engagements and went to fulfill the call God gave him, viz, to translate the Holy Scriptures. His congregation were larger than many preachers of today, but he said to his people, "Now it is necessary that the Scriptures be translated; you must find another minister: I am bound for the wilderness and shall not return until my task is finished." Away he went and labored and prayed until he produced the Latin Vulgate, which will last as long as the world stands. So we must say to our friends, " I must go away and have time for prayer and solitude." And though we did not write Latin Vulgates, yet our work will be immortal: Glory to God.

I want to encourage you, make time for prayer. It is the only power we have to effect the change of heart in other's lives which we wish to see. It is the only way that we can bring Christlikeness to our own hearts, and to the hearts of those in our congregations. And after all isn't that what people need, and deep inside want? Piper said it this way: Are not our people really yearning to be around a man who has been around God? From my experience, that is just what they are looking for, and just what they deserve in a pastor; a man who has been near God.

My new favorite show...

2007-01-17T21:11:00.000-06:00

Hey Gang,
I have a new favorite show! This weekend, we (the McClendonhill's, Bonnie, & I) had veg-out day. We sat around and watched My Name is Earl. It is about this redneck and his life. Earl won $100 thousand dollars in the lottery, and then was hit by a car. While in traction from his injuries, Earl found Karma (from Carson Daly), and made a list of all the things he had done wrong in his life. He vowed then and there to use the money to right all of his wrongs. Earl has a sidekick, his brother Randy; who is a few fries short of a Happy Meal. Earl also has a foil, his former wife. Let me tell you, My Name is Earl, is hilarious. If you are looking for me on Thursday nights @ 7, just know that I will be watching: My Name is Earl.

Two Great Friends...

2007-01-09T09:11:00.000-06:00

One of the great things that you get as an extra when you date the hottest little chica west of the Mississippi, is that her friends get to be your friends. Bonnie has some great friends, and I am glad to now call them mine, and I want to introduce them to you.

The young lady on the left is Lauren. She is a spunky Texan, full of life and love for the Lord. She is honest as the day is long, and funny as all get out. She is also very forgiving, seeing as how I have offended her many a time, but she still is nice to me.

This is Angela.(She is the second young lady on the left in the picture above.) Angela is a sweetheart, and whoa is she a hard worker. I think she has 20 jobs. Not to mention, she can put together a beautiful Christmas tree, and throws a wicked tailgate party. There is only one thing I see wrong with Angela. She love the Lord, but evidently the Lord has not opened her eyes to see that the University of Georgia is the best University in the WORLD. You see Angela roots for the bees from Atlanta. But let me tell you, she is the best Tech fan I have ever met. I just know that she will come to the light one day, after she finds and marries that Georgia Boy that God has set aside for her! (In this picture you can see Angela and I at the Georgia v. Georgia Tech game. By the way, Angela, who won that game?)

Ladies, thanks for accepting me, and I am happy to have you as friends.

What I have been up to...

2007-01-09T08:43:00.000-06:00

Hey gang,

I had a wonderful Christmas, full of family, fun, friends, and a few broken fingers. I went home for the holidays, to see the family and celebrate Christmas. While I was there I saw this:

That's right friends, Big D is still good lookin', and funny. I stopped off to see Big D, and was even invited to be his guest on his weekly radio and tv show. We were especially pious here. All jest aside, Big D is sharing God's word with the Sequachie Valley 5 days a week with this 30 minute radio and tv spot. As always, D does a great job explaining God's word, and making you love the Lord the way he does.

I also saw this:

This is my nephew kickin' hiney minush and taking names. You will notice that he is 4" shorter than the rest of the kids in the class, but he is a McKinney so his Irish(my sister would say Scottish, but this is my blog so I will tell like I want to.) gets up at times. Patrick is now a recommended Purple belt, which in the common vernacular means: Uncle Chris had better watch our when I get older! I sure hope that what my Dad told me about Old Age and trickery beating youth and inexperience is true. If not, I will be in big trouble one day.

After the long trip back to Texas, Bonnie and I went here:

That is right folks, this dyed in the wool, Red and Black By the grace of God, Georgia Bulldog Backer went to see the Auburn Tigers whoop up on the Nebraska Cornhuskers. I have heard the rumors that the people are spreading, saying that I actually cheered for the Auburn Tigers. But I want you to know that there is no substantial proof of me committing this heresy. Now some have posted pictures of me in an Auburn hat. All I can say is slander, and Photoshop!

As you can tell, I had a wonderfully exciting, but not so restful Christmas. It is alright though, I enjoyed myself so much that I figure I will sleep during basketball season. (That's what everybody else does anyway!)

Willard's Winners.... Bowl Edition...

2006-12-20T08:15:00.000-06:00

Well gang, Willard is back. He went into hiding, thinking the apocalypse was coming when the Dawgs lost to Vandy and to Kentucky. However, when Thanksgiving rolled around, Willard figured out that he was about to miss his Mom's deviled eggs and mashed tater's (as Willard puts it), so he came back home. He kept trying to put off using his powers of prognostication, but then, last night during the Poinsettia Bowl; Willard said I must use the gifts I have been given! So Willard called me at 4:00 am this morning with his prognostications! (I've got to teach Willard how to use the Computer)

Here are Willard's Winners...

Las Vegas Bowl: BYU v. Oregon: Willard's Winner= Oregon

New Orleans Bowl: Rice v. Troy: Willard's Winner= Troy

Papa John's Bowl: South Florida v. Eastern Carolina: Willard's Winner= Eastern Carolina

Armed Forces Bowl: Tulsa v. Utah: Willard's Winner= Utah

New Mexico Bowl: New Mexico v. San Jose St.: Willard's Winner= Whoever does not have to watch this game! (sorry Dennis, nobody but you cares)

Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii v. Arizona State: Willard's Winner= Who cares!

Motor City Bowl: Middle Tennessee State v. Central Michigan: The Raiders from the foothills of Tennesse will sack and pillage the Chippewa's Lodge. Willard's Winner... Middle Tenn

Emerald Bowl: Florda St. v. UCLA: Willard's Winner...Florida State.

Independence Bowl: Oklahoma State v. Alabama: Willard's Winner... Oklahoma State

Texas Bowl: Rutgers v. Kansas State: Willard's Winner... Rutgers

Holiday Bowl: Texas A&M v. Cal: Willard's Winner...CAL

Music City Bowl: Clemson v. Kentucky: Willard's Winner....Clemson

Sun Bowl: Oregon State v. Missouri: Willard's Winner.... Television Companies. They get to charge advertisers exorbitant ammounts of money for time, which is ironic because no one will be watching!

Liberty Bowl: Houston v. South Carolina: Willard's Winner... South Carolina

Insight Bowl: Texas Tech v. Minnesota: Willard's Winner... Texas Tech

Champs Sports Bowl: Perdue v. Maryland: Willard's Winner... Beware of the Terrible Terrapins... Maryland

Meineke Bowl: Navy v. Boston College: Maybe Meineke should put the breaks on funding this waste of time... Boston College.

Alamo Bowl: Texas v. Iowa: Willard's Winner... Texas stomps them flat!

Peach Bowl: Georgia v. Virginia Tech: Honestly, and not filled with bias, this could be the second best bowl game of the season. Richt's DAWGS will invade Atlanta looking to gobble up some peach pie. Beamer's high powered Hokie Bird attack wants a slice or two themselves. But this is our junkyard, and there will be no sharing this cobbler with those gobblers. Willard's Winner.... Georgia!

MPC Computers Bowl: Miami v. Nevada: I would hate to be Nevada. As many of the Miami players that are going to jail this off-season, you know that they are wanting to get their rocks off. Willard's Winner... Miami

Outback Bowl: Tennessee v. Pitt: Willard's Winner... Tennessee

Cotton Bowl: Auburn v. Nebraska: The Cornhusker Crew will amble down to Dallas after a good season, looking to shuck the War Eagles. The Huskers will pluck a few of the War Eagle's feathers, but in the end Auburn will fly high! Willard's Winner... Auburn (Bonnie, Willard is fussin' mad that I am going to an Auburn game!)

Capitol One Bowl: Arkansas v. Wisconsin: The Badgers of Wisconsin are looking forward to sunning themselves in the warmer climate of a southern state. They are also looking to take home a victory in a bowl game. They will find that Houston Nutt and his raunchy Razorbacks are no pulled pork sandwich, but rather that there are tusks on those pigs. Willard''s Winner... in a rout... Arkansas

Gator Bowl: Georgia Tech v. West Virginia: Uncle Chan's bumbling bees will head to Gainesville to sting the Mountaineers. The chief bumbler of them all (Reggie Ball) will not be able to find the one Drone that can get things done. (Calvin Johnson) Willard's Winner... West Virginia. ( You will notice that Willard said nothing about West VA doing anything good. He meant that. They won't have to, Reggie will once again lose an important game for the Buzz. But rejoice Atlanta, shout aloud you Tech faithful, for this is the last game Reggie Ball will ever lose for the Gold and Blue! Willard and I will both miss Reggie Ball. He made Georgia look real good.)

Rose Bowl: USC v. Michigan: Whoooooaaaaaaaahhhh Nellie! The Donnybrook Bowl game of the year! Folks, this one should be good. Pete Carroll's Trojans had had time to mend their armor, sharpen their swords, and heal the wounds of their last crushing defeat, which kept them out of the BCS Championship game. But Lloyd Carr's Wolverines have been sharpening their teeth and claws, and are fightin' mad about being left out of the big show too. So, both of these teams will fight dagger and nail for a Bowl win. The Trojans will fight valiantly, but in the end, the Rose Bowl trophy will go back to the Wolverine's den. Willard's Winner.............Michigan

Fiesta Bowl: Boise St. v. Oklahoma: The Blue Carpet and the BCS Boys have both been kind to Boise State. The Bronco's have waited a long time for a shot at a big bowl game. Well here is their chance. They will buck, and run up and down the field, but just as in ages of old, they will find the Sooners in the end zone before them. Willard's Winner... Oklahoma. (P.S. I can't pass up the opportunity to get my 2 cents in. Boise St. deserves to be at the Peach Bowl, or maybe even the Alamo Bowl, but not the Fiesta Bowl. Let's get a season against some tougher opponents and see if you deserve to play with the Big Boys.)

Orange Bowl: Louisville v. Wake Forrest: The Birds of Louisville will attempt to lodge in the Baptist Belfry. The Demon Deacons will form a committee to attempt to root out the pests, but since no Deacon can shoot it straight with anybody about anything, the Cardinals will find a wonderful place to roost. Willard's Winner ... Louisville

The Sugar Bowl: Notre Dame v. LSU: The Golden Domed Cardinals of South Bend will desced to the Parishes of Southern Louisiana to take stock of the faithful, and to bring them into order. They will find that the Parish Priests of the Bayou, have let things run wild and that there are Tigers roaming about. The Golden Domed Cardinals will try to perform the sacraments, but will find those Bayou Bengals too wild to tame. Willard's Winner... LSU

The BCS Championship Game: Ohio St. v. Florida: Urban Mayer cried enough Aligator tears to get his boys into the National championship pond, but Tressell's Buckeyes seem to have planted themselves firmly in that spot. The Gators will clamp down on the Buckeyes, and put them in the death roll. But in the end those overgrown lizzards will choke on those Ohio St. hulls.
Willard's Winner.... Ohio State.

Whatever happened to grit and gumption..

2006-12-05T14:38:00.000-06:00

I despise weakness. I despise weak kneed, wishy washy, people as well. But what I hate the most is a leader who has a weak stomach. I find it deplorable that our nation is led by people who don't have enough grit to see something to the end. They care more for their own power plays, and pork barrell projects than they do for our fighting men, and for the tired, poor, and huddled masses yearning to breathe free. Do you realize that we used to be a nation of men and women that fought for truth and justice. We had leaders, yea I say Statesmen, like FDR, Churchill, and Richard B. Russell who knew the great responsibility freedom brings, and lived up to that responsibilty. They passed laws to protect and serve mankind, as well as; promoted liberty and justice around the world. We were a nation that refused to let a Kaiser, or the Reich, or Communist dictatorships rule because we knew freedom was something worth fighting for. At one time we understood that anything worth having was going to cost you something, and that it might cost dearly. Now we are so weak that we are not willing to sacrifice anything for the millions that are subject to tyranny. We lift weak hands and offer paltry gifts to those in need of our help.

I know the true reason for this week kneed behavior. This lack of backbone is of course the influence of sin in people's lives. People lack the grit to carry on because they lack in faith in God. They lack faith in God because they have never met him, and choose to rail against him. We refuse to give freely because we are so selfish, and demand our own rights and well being. It all makes me long for the second coming, when there will be one who rules with justice and might, one who makes all things right, and does so with power and majesty. Maranantha!

Willard's Winners...

2006-12-01T08:06:00.000-06:00

Well gang, I am moving to my new abode today, so I don't have time to be quippy. But here are my pics for this weekends matchups.

Reggie Ball will have three lucid thoughts this weekend, and throw the ball to Calvin Johnson each time. Calvin will catch them and run them in for touchdowns. Willard's Winner... GT

USC stomps UCLA and goes on to play for a National Championship. Satan is still out there folks, and this is proof.

Rutgers will run the ball well enough to keep West Virginia's offense off the field. Willard's Winner... Rutgers!

The Corn Huskers will get shucked. Willard's Winner... Oklahoma

The Oregon State Beavers pelts will be hanging on a thatched hut by the beach in Hawaii.

Florida will slow down Darren McFadden and the Razorbacks, make them throw the ball, and capitalize on turnovers to win.

And last but certainly not least:

Army v. Navy: The Cadets from the U.S. Miliatary Academy will march into Philadelphia this weekend looking to occupy some foreign territory, and bring home a prized win over the United States Naval Academy. The Cadets have trained hard, polished their big guns, and lubricated the tracks of their tanks. But, Armies' tanks are no match for the Big guns of the Navy Battleship. Willard's Winner... Go NAVY beat Army!

Willard's Winners...Thanksgiving Edition...

2006-11-23T10:49:00.000-06:00

Well folks, It's Thanksgiving. Willard told me that he was going to his Mom's house to give thanks to the Lord for his salvation and subsequent sanctification, .....and to eat some turkey. Willard told me that if I would finish out the regular season, then he would predict the Bowl games for me. So here we go with the Thanksgiving Edition of Pigskin Prognostications.

Boston College v. Miami: The Beantown Eagles will fly into beautiful Miami to sun their bellies on South Beach this Thanksgiving Break. The Hurricanes will will try to dampen the Eagle's break, but will only manage a mist. Willard's Winner... Boston College.

Texas A&M v. Texas: The battle for Texas will pit Francione's Aggies against Brown's Longhorns. The Corp will train their rifles and sharpen their K-bars looking to carve out a few longhorn steaks, but the Bulls from pastures of Austin will gore the Corp. Willard's Winner... Texas

Virginia v. Virginia Tech: The Queen's men will march to Blacksburg to bring the Queen her Thanksgiving Turkey. But Beemer's Birds will avoid capture. Willard's Winner... Virginia Tech.
(George, I am sorry for last week's lapse in judgement. Hokie Hokie Hokie Hi, Tech Tech VPI, Sola Rex Sola Rah, Polytech Virginia, Rey Rah VPI, TEAM TEAM TEAM!)

Wake Forest v. Maryland: Well, the Terrible Terrapins showed a crack in their shell last week. The Demon Deacons also showed that the right Pastor can reign them in. So this weeks match up should be a good one. The Deacons will head to College Park looking to convert the Terps to their form of religion. But the terrible Terps will slam the front door in the Deacon's faces. Willard's Winner... Beware of the Terps!... Maryland.

The Donnybrook Game of the Week:

LSU v. Arkansas: Whoa Nellie, this game is big for the SEC. The Bayou Bengals will march to Fayetteville looking to Barbeque a little Razorback. Houston Nutt's Hogs have used their terrific tusk filled Scooter McFadden to run all over the field this season. The question is: Are the Tiger's Defensive Hides' tough enough to stand up to McFadden's tusks. I am going against Willard's Prognostication skills and picking... Chris' Champion...LSU

Notre Dame v. USC: Last year, this was one of the best games of the season, with the Trojans coming out on top. Since then, Brady Quinn and the rest of the Catholic crew have been constantly lifting up hail mary's and our fathers looking for divine help for this season's rematch. The Fightin' Irish bring a somewhat anemic offense to Southern California this weekend hoping to somehow find paydirt and a trip to the National Championship game. But the boys from Troy will fight valiantly, and keep Helen safely in the city. Willard's Winner... USC (Oh how it pains me to say that. I really do want the Irish to pull out the big Sheleighleigh and thump the Trojans.)

Georgia Tech v. Georgia: The Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech will cruise on down Highway 316 to the Classic City looking to drive off with a few victory parts and some gas for their trip to a bowl game. But Coach Richt's Junkyard Dawgs run this lot, and will send that Yellowjacket jalopy back to its Atlanta impoud without the parts they need. Willard's Winner... Georgia!

Willard's Winners...

2006-11-14T10:31:00.000-06:00

Well folks, Willard is still reeling from the loss to Kentucky, but is feeling much better after last weeks win. Didn't I tell y'all, That Dawg will Bite You! Willard, keep your chin up, and continue to take your medicine, and be ready for bowl season. In the meantime, I will do my best to prognosticate as well as you do. (Did anybody notice that I was 8-1 last week?)

Without further adieu... Here are Willard's Winners...

West Virginia v. Pitt: The Mountaineers from Morgantown are needing to show off their shooting prowess so as to make the BCS Shootout. They think that a few Panther pelts on their wall might impress the BCS boys to let them in the match. The Panthers will sneak out from their dens and try to slash those hunters, but the Mountaineers will drop them in their tracks. Willard's Winner... West Virginia

Cal v. USC: The Bears of Cal will lumber to Troy on a mission to knock Pete Carroll's mighty men off the BCS ramparts. Tommy the Trojan will have his sword sharp, and will make himself a nice bear rug. Willard's Winner... USC

Tennessee v. Vandy: The Vol navy will sail to Nashville looking to sink the Commodores' season. The Commodores will defend their harbor valiantly, but Fulmer's sharp shooters will pick off the Gold and Black Attack. The Battle for supremacy on Tennessee's waterways will be won by...Willard's Winner... Tennesee

Maryland v. Boston College: The Eagles of Beantown have been flying high this season, and are looking to feast on one of their favorite morsels, Turtle. But Coach Friedgen has toughened up his Tortoise troupe, and will have those shellbacks ready for battle. Willard's Winner...Beware of the Terapins!... Maryland!

Rutgers v. Cincinatti: Well folks, I must make a few amends for a moment. Last week I mistakenly chose Louisville to stomp the Scarlett Knights of New Jersey. I will have to say that the Scarlet Knights horses are quite powerful, and impressive. Let me go ahead and say this...Though the Bearcats of Cincy will defend their lair well, the State College of New Jersey's Scarlet Knights will trample them under-foot. Willard's Winner... and kudos go to... Rutgers

Virginia Tech v. Wake Forest: The Hokie Birds have taken a few lumps this season, but their wings have been mended; and are ready to fly to North Carolina to disrupt the Deacon's called church conference. The Demon Deacons would like nothing more than a little turkey snack before the main victuals arrive on Thanksgiving Day. The Elders will find those Hokies to be a tough bird to swallow, but with the help of a little communion wine will choke them down. Willard's Winner... Wake Forest.

And now for the Donnybrook game of the Week:

Michigan v. Ohio State: In the words of Keith Jackson... Whooooaaaah Nellie! The Wolverines will bring their powerful defensive claws to the Big Horshoe looking to crack the Buckeyes, and their National Championship hopes. Lloyd Carr and his boys will chop and chop at the proud Buckeyes, but Troy Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. will rain down their tough acorns thumping the Wolverines on the head. Willard's Winner... Ohio State

Auburn v. Alabama: Tubberville's Tigers are still licking their wounds from the bite the Bulldogs put on them last week. And as it goes with wounded animals, the Tigers will be fightin' mad. Mike Shula's crimson pachyderms will try to stomp on the Tigers' tails, but will find those Felines a little too frisky. Willard's Winner... in a rout...Auburn!

Willard's Winners...

2006-11-07T15:06:00.000-06:00

Well folks... Willard has gone off the deep end. After crushing defeats to both Vanderbilt and Kentucky in the same season, Willard has moved back out into the woods near Ellaville. My Aunt heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight: "Apocalypse is comin', head for the hills!" My Aunt said that Willard would be back soon though. She explained that he only took 2 jars of pickled eggs with him, and that wouldn't last him long.

Since Willard is on hiatus, I will be filling in the rest of the season. I hope that I will be able to fill those big (but nasty) shoes. So here we go!

Louisville v. Rutgers: The high flying Cardinal attack will wing its way into Jersey looking to leave a stain on the Scarlett Knights' perfect record. The Templars will defend the State College of New Jersey valiantly, but castle will fall. Willard's Winner... Louisville

Cincinatti v. West Virginia: The might Bearcats of Cincy will attempt to scale mountains of Morgantown. The Mountaineers know that mountain well, and will train their high powered rifles, and there will be Bearcat pelts decorating the Mountaineer lodge. Willard's Winner... West Virginia

South Carolina v. Florida: The Ole' Ball coach will lead his chickens down to the Swamp looking for a little Gator tail snack. The Coach's hens are sort of wiry and tough this year, but will be no match for the Gator chomp. Willard' Winner... Florida

Miami v. Maryland: The blustery windbags from South Florida will gust their way into College Park this Saturday hoping to topple Coach Friedgens' Tortoises. The Canes are looking to get back a little of their wind, but will find that the Terrible Terrapins can weather their bluster. Willard's Winners... Beware of the Terrapins...Maryland!

Nebraska v. Texas A&M: I have heard that the Aggies have a dog named Reveille. That is what I will need to wake me up from this bore of a game... Willard's Winner...anybody who does not have to watch this game!

Notre Dame v. Air Force: The Golden Domers from South Bend will make the pilgrimage to Colorado to shoot down the fighting Falcons of The U.S. Air Force Academy. I don't have anything quippy to say, but the Catholics had better be prayed up for this one. Willard's Winner... In a nail-biter... Notre Dame.

TCU v. New Mexico: The Lobos of New Mexico will be looking to defend their den against the Horned Frogs of TCU this weekend. The Horned Frogs will bring their potent offensive poison, and vitiate the wolves. Willard's Winner... TCU
(Sorry Dennis, but your wolves just can't hack it. Hey, at least you are cleaner than the Old Mexico!)

Bama v. LSU: Yeah, as if Bama has a chance. I won't even waste my creative juices on this one. Willard's Winner... LSU!

Wake Forest v. Florida State: The Demon Deacons of Wake Forest have shown themselves to be as mean as the most cantankerous set of their Baptist namesakes. Pastor Bowdon and his Native American flock will attempt to keep the congregation together, but the upstart Elders will split that Seminole Sanctuary. Willard's Winner...Wake Forest.

Georgia v. Auburn. Coach Richt's bumbling Bulldog band will stumble into the Prettiest Little Village on the Plain this week looking to knock off the Tubberville's Terrific Tigers. The War Eagle attack has been strong, and will fly over the Bulldog ground game. The 5th ranked Tigers will pounce, claw, and scratch all over those Bulldogs. But in the immortal words of Lewis Grizzard: THAT DAWG WILL BITE YOU! Willard's Winner... Georgia!

Wicked Mad Props To My Peeps...

2006-10-15T20:36:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, thanks for helping me celebrate. I had a great time hanging out with you guys, even if the Hokies didn't win.

Ladies, thanks for the cake, presents, and presence. Thanks for helping make my Birthday great.

Willard's Winners Week 7...

2006-10-09T20:19:00.000-05:00

Well gang, I am sorry for leaving you hanging out in the wind with no prognostications. I was at home, having so much fun that I simply couldn't break away to call Willard.

Willard is once again depressed over Georgia's loss to Tennessee this weekend. A few minutes after the loss, I composed myself, and called Willard's best buddy Ray Earl to offer Willard some comfort, and to keep him from doing something drastic. Luckily Ray Earl got to Willard's house just before Willard made it to the truck with his spray paint. Oh, the mess he would have made.

Willard's Winners for Week 7 are...

Virginia Tech v. Boston College: The Hokie Birds of Blacksburgh will invade Beantown this Thursday. Coach Beamer's Boys have had a tough season, and will find
Boston inhospitable. The Beantown Birds will take aim at the Mountain Turkeys, but their aim will be slightly off. Willard's Winner... Virginia Tech

Minnesota v. Wisconsin: Willard tried hard to take this game seriously. He realizes that there are people who really like these two teams, and there are some that think this is real football. Willard finally broke down and declared his winner. Willard's Winner... Whoever does not have to watch this game!

Ole Miss v. Alabama: The Rebels of Oxford will hop on I-20 and head East to the wide spot in the road called Tuscaloosa looking to fill their bellies on Elephant stew. Coach Orgeron's sharpshooters will take aim, but will find Shula's Crimson Pachyderms tough to bring down. Willard's Winner...Alabama

Michigan v. Penn St.: Coach Carr's Wolverines will scamper into Happy Valley looking for an easy victory. They will find out that the Nittany Lions still have a bit of a bite, but Willard says that the Wolverines will still hear Hail to the Victors after the final gun. Willard's Winner... Michigan.

Maryland v. Virginia: The Turtles will meander into Charlottesville for a tangle with the Queen's guardians. Willard said that though the rest of the world may not think much of either of these teams, this should be a great game to watch. Willard's Winner... Beware of the Turtles...Maryland.

Florida v. Auburn: In the words of Keith Jackson...WHOA NELLIE! This one should be a Donnybrook! Coach Urban Mayer will lead his lizards to the "prettiest little village on the plain" to take on Coach Tuberville's War Eagles. After last weeks debacle, Tuberville's Tigers will be fightin'mad and ready to defend their home. The Auburn Tigers will slash and gnaw on the Thunder lizard's tails, and send them back to their primordial ooze depressed. Willard's Winner... Auburn.
(Aside...This is a little depressing. You see because Auburn will beat Florida this weekend, then no team from the SEC will play for a National Championship. However, USC, who plays 2 ranked teams a year will play in their 3rd in 3 years. Please oh please, somebody convince the NCAA to go to a playoff!)

Vanderbuilt v. Georgia: The Commodores will sail up the Oconee River looking to sink the Bulldog faithfull. Joe T III and the rest of the Dawgs will be guarding the Junkyard, and will take a Bulldog bite out of Vandy. Willard's Winner... Georgia.

My trip home...

2006-10-08T20:18:00.000-05:00

I had a great trip home this past week. I got some rest, read some, forgot about school and work, and got to see this guy. My nephew has been studying Tae Kwon Do for about a year now. He is the smallest guy in the class, but has a lot of fight in him. His small stature has caused a few problems for him. The kids in the class start out far apart, but because Patrick doesn't cover as much area sometimes the other kids crowd him on the mat. Once, Patrick unknowingly got crowded, and on a roundhouse kick, kicked the snot out of another kid. Hilarious for the parents watching, not so for the kid that got kicked!

Patrick and I hung out like the bestest buddies that we are. We watched Teen Titans, Scooby Doo, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, all the best cartoons.

My birthday is coming up this week, so my sister baked me a cake. She rocks! This is/was my tasty and beautiful University of Georgia Cake! Patrick even helped with the icing.

Possibly the best commercial ever...

2006-10-08T11:13:00.000-05:00

Yes!!!!

Willard's Winners Week 5...

2006-09-26T18:23:00.000-05:00

Well, you all know about Willard's outburst last week concerning the lack of quality college football games. Well, Earl; Willard's huntin' buddy put together a special event to calm Willard down. Earl put together his county wide famous "MUD FLOPPIN'." For those of you not acquainted with mud floppin' let me explain. First someone digs a pit. You then fill it with water and let it sit for a day or two. Then you let the kids go play in the water, stirring up the mud. Then you gather everybody together, eat some BBQ, and then everybody Flops on in. They have all kinds of prizes for "Best Swan Dive", "Best Cannon Ball", and everyone's favorite, "Best Belly Flop." Willard just loves the Mud Floppin' and it cheered his spirits right up.

So without further adieu (Willard, that means no more waitin')here are Willard's Winners:

BYU v. TCU= The Mormon Cougars are looking to travel to Fort Worth looking for a tasty dish of roasted reptile. Coach Gary Patterson's horny toads will prove themselves to be a tough meal for the Cougars to swallow. It looks like somebody had better be baptised for those BYU boys. Willard's Winner... TCU

Auburn v. South Carolina= Tubberville's Tigers will prance into the Gamecock's ring this Saturday. The Ole' Ball Coach will have his his kickin' chicken's spurs sharp, but just like Little Jerry Seinfeld, SC is no match for Auburn's Feline Frenzy. Willard's Winner... Auburn

Tennessee v. Memphis= The battle for Tennesse will take place near the muddy waters of the Mississipi this year. The Tigers of Memphis will scratch and claw at Fulmer's hounds but in the end the Vols will drag the title of Tennessee's Best Team back to Good Ole' Rocky Top. Willard' Winner... Tennessee

Wisconsin v. Indiana= The slow ground and pound attack of Wisconsin will bore everyone to death before Indiana has the chance to turn the ball over the 2nd time. Willard's Winner... Whoever does not have to watch this game!

Alabama v. Florida= Coach Shula's Crimson Pachyderms will lumber into the Swamp after their crushing defeat at the hands of the Razorbacks last week. Though they will be fighting for their bowl lives, the Gators will eat that Elephant one bite at the time. Willard's Winner... (and oh how he hates to say it) Florida

The Georgia Institute of Technology v. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University= Willard said: "Dang, after having to write all that down, I don't have nuthin' to say. Willard's Winner... Virginia Tech

Louisiana Tech v. Clemson= Willard's Winner in a rout... Clemson

Ohio St. v. Iowa= The Hawkeyes of Iowa will set their keen vision on knocking off the #1 Buckeyes in their home stadium. But the Hawkeyes will find the Tressel's Buckeye Trees an inhospitable place to light. Willard's Winner, in the Donnybrook Game of the Week... Ohio State

Pudue v. Notre Dame= The Altar-boys of South Bend somehow pulled one out of their golden domes last week, but will find the Boilermakers a little easier to convert. Willard's Winner... Notre Dame

The University of Georgia v. Ole Miss= Coach Richt's Bulldogs will march into Oxford this Saturday. Ole Colonel Sanders will try to rally the troops to fight off the Junk Yard Dawgs. But the only time we will hear the Rebel Yell is when UGA VI bites the Rebs on the tail. Willard's Winner... GEORGIA!

P.S. If you are wondering what happened to my Dad, wonder no more. He is vacationing in his Summer Home, and could not be reached. (By that I mean that my Grandmother's lawn needed to be mowed, the last of the tomatoes and beans picked, and the turnips had to be planted.)

Capt. J. A. Filos...

2006-09-26T10:38:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, the segment above is from a show on the History Channel called Mail Call. It talks about all kinds of weapons, old and new. The Captain speaking to the host about the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle is a friend of mine from High School and College. We used to call Jason the "Hispanic Causing Panic." With this machine he really is causing panic, in our enemies!

Willard's Winners Week 4....

2006-09-22T12:48:00.000-05:00

Well, Willard is trying to learn how to use, what he calls; the "inner net." He bought a computer, and has been trying to email me his picks for this week. He said that he didn't understand why I haven't been getting the "e-males" he has been sending. However, the one email that I did receive had a picture of his opening screen. (see pic above) This might be the problem with Willard's emails.

Well, since Willard could not email his picks, I called him. Willard was quite upset with this weeks schedule. He ranted for about 15 minutes. About the only words I could really understand were: "WILLARD'S WINNER, WILLARD'S WINNER...I'LL TELL YOU WHO WILLARD'S WINNERS ARE...EVERYBODY WHO DOES NOT HAVE TO WATCH COLLEGE FOOTBALL THIS WEEKEND...THERE AIN'T ONE.... (I can't finish the rest of the sentence)

So there you have it folks, Willard's Winners for this week are those of you smart enough to rent a movie on the cruddiest weekend of college football ever!

Don't worry folks, Willard will be back next week with his prognostications.

Willard's Winners, Week 3...

2006-09-14T15:13:00.000-05:00

Willard and Charles squared off against each other in their prognostications last week, with Willard coming out on top. Well, they both took a smart pill this week, and scribbled out their picks for this weeks winners. Both "gentlemen" are extremely excited about this weekend of important games.

Here we go!

Iowa St. v. Iowa: Willard's Winner & Charles' Champ... Anybody who does not have to watch this game!

Arkansas v. Vandy: Charles and Willard broke out the squirrel rifles and threatened each others' lives over this one. Charles chose Arkansas, Willard chose Vandy. There is a jar of pickled pigs feet riding on this one!

Clemson v. Florida St: Charles said that the "Cheatah's" from Carolina are going to be roaring mad about last weeks loss, so they will come out scratching and clawing, and biting their way around the Bowdon Bayou. But those sneaky Seminoles' spears will find their mark in the kitty cats hearts. Willard's Winner... Florida St.

Nebraska v. USC: The Cornhuskers will roll into Troy looking to shuck Pete Carroll's horse down to the cob. They will soon find out that there is still a lot of fight in the hoplites from the Peloponeses. Charles Champ... USC

Troy v. Georgia Tech: Since Willard used up all his references to the Trojans in the previous prognostication, he'll just say: Willard's Winner...Georgia Tech (P.S. Charles agreed)

Miami v. Louisville: Last week, the Cardinals of Kentucky flew fast and straight even without their lead bird. But this weekend they will fly into a gale, the likes of which they have never seen. Willard's Winner/Charles' Champ... Miami

Oklahoma v. Oregon: Bob Stoops' Boomer Schooner will ramble on up to Portland this weekend, looking to get the jump on the Ducks. They will find the ground between the mountains and the see tough to navigate, but Stoops' boys will eventually find touchdown sod for bustin'. Willard's Winner/Charles' Champion... Oklahoma

Michigan v. Notre Dame: Willard wanted me to tell all the other pigskin pupils out there that this was a tough game to judge. He said that the Wolverines were a tough group this year. He also noted how Notre Dame was playing this one at home. Willard said that after much studying, and an extra smart pill or two he came to the conclusion... Willard's Winner... Notre Dame (By the way, Charles said it was a no brainer...Notre Dame)

Florida v. Tennessee: Oh what a wonderful game this will be! Urban Meyer and his swamp lizzards will crawl their way up to the Rockytop of Neyland Stadium. The lizzards will attack in their new, wacky formation; but Fullmer's riflemen will drop them short. There will be rejoicing and aligator boots and belts for everybody! Willard's Winner/Charles' Champion...TENNESEE

LSU v. Auburn: This one is the Donnybrook Game of the Week! Folks, if you don't get to watch any other game this year, don't miss this one! The Bayou Bengals will be stalking their way to the "Prettiest little town on the Plain" looking to eat a little Eagle. (or is it a tiger, I don't know, heck they don't know either!) Anyway, the Bengals will claw and scratch the Eagles near unto death, but will find the Eagles a tough bird to swallow. Charles' Champ/Willard's Winner... In a close one... Auburn! (War Eagle fly down the field, ever to conquer, never to yield...)

And last, but certainly not least!

UAB v. UGA: The Blazers of Birmingham will try to chargrill a little Bulldog "Between the Hedges" this weekend. Matt Stafford and the Junk Yard Dawg Defense, thanks to UGA VI; just happen to know where there is a fire hydrant big enough to put out the Blazer's fire. Charles' Champ/ Willard's Winner...Georgia!

What is wrong????

2006-09-08T13:33:00.000-05:00

I have not been able to connect to my blog for the last three days. This is a test post to see if this will solve my viewing problems.

Willard's Winners Week 2...

2006-09-05T20:48:00.000-05:00

Willard made me promise to put up a picture of his buddy Earl. (Earl picked Willard up off the side of the road the other day when Charlene put him out of the car.) Earl, thanks for picking Willard up.

Well, Willard and Charles have both given me their picks for this week, and here they are:

Auburn v. Miss. ST.= Both said: "No contest!" Willard's Winner, Auburn

Penn St. v. Notre Dame= Again, both agreed that the Fightin' Irish would wollop the Nittany Lions. Charles Champion, Notre Dame.

Clemson v. Boston College= Charles seems to think that the intellectuals from Beantown will offer the Cheatahs of Clemson a good game, but is not willing to step out on the limb to give them the victory. Willard says it is a no brainer. Willard's Winner and Charles Champion, Clemson

Cal v. Minnesota= Willard and Charles both agree that Cal did not like the hospitality they found in the Eastern Hills of Tennessee last weekend, and will have learned their lesson. Willard's Winner, Cal

Ohio State v. Texas= Willard thinks the Buckeyes will be a tough nut to crack, but Charles thinks the Longhorns have enough hoof to crack them.
Willard's Winner, Ohio St Charles Champion, Texas

Virginia Tech v. North Carolina= The old song goes: Nothin could be finer than to be in Carolina in the mornin'. Virginia Tech will think so too! Willard said this one would be a terrible whoopin'. Willard's Winner & Charles' Champion= Va Tech

Ole Miss v. Missouri= The Rebels are looking to raid Columbia this weekend. They will bring their squirrell guns and shoot a few rounds down Missouri's range. The Tigers will give it the old college try, but in the end we will hear the Rebel yell. Willard's Winner & Charles' Champ, Ole Miss

Vandy v. Alabama=As you will remember, Charles and Willard almost came to blows over the Vandy/Michigan game last week. Well, Willard won out on that one and Charles learned his lesson. Willard's Winner & Charles' Champ= Alabama

Texas Tech v. UTEP= Nobody cares!

Western Illinois v. Wisconsin= Willard's Winner and Charles' Champ, Whoever does not have to watch this game!

THE University of Georgia v. South Carolina= Once again, the Kickin Chickins will try to defend their roost from the Bulldog onslaught. That coach, who's name Willard refuses to speak; will have his Roosters in fightin' shape, and as Charles puts it, in good enough shape to win. Willard thinks that the Dawgs will have themselves a hard fought, tough, chicken dinner. Charles' Champion...South Carolina Willard's Winner... Georgia
(After this one, I am going to have to talk to my Dad. Y'all pray for his soul.)

Week 1 Report...

2006-09-05T08:05:00.000-05:00

Well, College Football did not disappoint this weekend. There were several good games, that captured my attention and kept me from doing anything productive this weekend.

Without further adieu, let's get to the good stuff. Willard and Charles were both right on the money with their prognostications. Both only missed 2 games out of 12. Both had one game that they called from their hearts instead of their heads. Willard picked his heart favorite Virginia over Pitt, and was crushed when the Panthers mauled his Cavaliers. Charles picked the Commodores of Vanderbuilt, but they were crippled by Michigan. Both missed the Tennessee game, where Fuller's hounds ganged up on the Cal Bear Cubs.

A Great Article...

2006-08-29T08:13:00.000-05:00

Dr. Mohler seems to have a poignant grasp on the issue of preaching. While there is much to be said, this article seems to say a great deal that needs to be heeded by preachers today.

A note to John Layne...

2006-08-28T21:12:00.000-05:00

John, I know that you tried really hard with Bonnie, but the poor thing needs to go back to the 2nd grade. She seems to think that Richt is pronounced ricket and not rikt. I guess that is what you get when you go to Auburn. In Bonnie's defense, both Dick and Jane books did stay checked out most of the time. The PHD student was working on his dissertation.

John, I am trying my best to keep her straight out here.

Willard's back...

2006-08-28T18:43:00.000-05:00

Well, Willard finally got his house put in behind my Aunt's house. He was tired of driving into town to call me once a week with his picks. There was also a little problem between Willard and his girlfriend. It seems that Charlene has been shooting out his windows since the break-up. Enough of that, let's get to the good stuff. As you all know, College football season is 2 days, 22 hours, and about 30 minutes away. (not that I am counting) Willard is all excited, and looking forward to another great season of Georgia Football. He explained to me that he will be watching more football this season, so that he will know more about the teams that: (and I quote) "Georgia is going to put a stiff whoopin' on." Sometimes Willard is a bit one sided in his prognostications, so I am getting my father's input on some of this years biggest match-ups as well. Without further adeiu, here are Willard's Winners and Charles'Champions.

TCU v. Baylor= Willard and Charles both agreed that the Horned Frogs would leave a bad taste in the Bear's mouths. Willard's Winner... TCU

Washington ST. v. Auburn= Again, Willard and Charles both agreed that the Tigers are a little too tough for the Cougars. Charles' Champion: Auburn

Kentucky v. Louisville= Willard and Charles both agree that the Cardinals will sing a sweet song, and tame those little kittens from Lexington. Charles' Champion: (and as he puts it:"the team taking their first step towards a National Championship") Louisville

Virginia v. Pitt= Willard's Winner: Virginia, Charles Champion: Pitt

Cal v. Tennessee= Sorry Big D, The Bears will maul Fuller's hounds Willard's Winner & Charles' Champion: Cal

Marshall v. West Virginia: The Mountaineers will train their sights on the Thundering Herd of Marshall, and drive them to edge of extinction just as their namesake. Willard's Winner/Charles' Champion: West Virginia (I just want it to be known that my Dad seems to think that the winner of the Big East has a sure lock on a birth in the National Championship Game this year. I don't know if he is right, but time will tell.)

South Carolina v. Mississippi State: The ole ball coach has his fightin' chickens thinking they are the cock of the walk. Well they may just be. Willard's winner & Charles' Champion: South Carolina

Vanderbilt v. Michigan: Willard and Charles almost got into a fight over this one. As a matter of fact, I believe a little bit of crow is going to have to be eaten over this one. Willard says that the Wolverines will gnaw their way to a win, while Charles thinks the Commodores will chart a path to victory. Willard's Winner: Michigan. Charles Champion: Vanderbilt

Northern Illinois v. Ohio State: Willard and Charles both agreed on this one... Nobody Cares!

Notre Dame v. Georgia Tech: The Catholics of South Bend will attempt to spread their kind of gridiron religion on streets of downtown Atlanta. The engineers will work hard to keep that wrambling wreck running, but the Parish Priests will perform extreme unction on that old jalopy. Willard's Winner/Charles' Champion: Notre Dame

Florida State v. Miami: Over the last few years the Hurricanes have blown a mighty gale. But Bobby Bowdon and his Seminoles will weather this storm leaving Miami in a tropical depression. In the Donnybrook game of the Week; Willard's Winner and Charles' Champion: Florida State

And Last, but certainly not least,

The University of Georgia v. Western Kentucky: Coach Richt will lead his proud Bulldogs between the hedges to take on the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky. Unfortunately the boys from Kentucky will live up to their names, and all we will see of them is them with their tails between their legs topping the hill running double time from the Bulldog BITE! Willard's Winner & And Charles' Champion: Georgia

A Sad Evening...

2006-08-22T13:10:00.000-05:00

I had a sad evening last night. After spending some time with Bo, I went back to Fort Worth Hall. I rode the elevator to the third floor, got off, walked left to the end of the hall, turned right and walked the 20 paces towards my door, when all of a sudden it hit me; I am the only ward of Cell Block C left. All the others have been paroled. I walked down the cell block noticing, there were no more tags reading: George Butler, Darrell Winters, Thomas Winborn, or Nathan Lawrence. Instead there are new names, that I don't know, and that don't know me. These guys don't know my struggles, and I don't know theirs. They don't know how to make me mad enough to tackle them in the snow. They don't know how to get me to leave the dorm at 1:00 am. They don't know that my eyes almost disappear when I laugh really hard, and they don't know how to get me to act like an idiot. I miss the guys that do know those things. This is going to be a weird semester without my friends being around.

Sweet Colorado....

2006-08-21T19:10:00.000-05:00

Well, Bonnie and I went to see the McDonnall's this week. We had a blast! We had some fun, and also got some rest. That is the best kind of vacation.

The McDonnall's, Bonnie and I went 4 wheelin' up Cut Bank, a 200-300' hill. We had a great ride, kickin' up dust, jumpin' jackrabbits, and scaring deer. This is the McDonnall's and Bo catching a bit of a rest near the end of a rough ride. It also shows a great view of the Wet Mountain Valley.

This .44 packs a big wollop. Bruce could put a bullet where he wanted it, me not so much. Honestly, I am just happy to still have the use of my hand.

This is a 300 Weatherby. It was an awesome rifle. I put about 10 rounds in group about 3" in spread. It also gave me a nice little bruise on my right shoulder!

This is the rifle I have always wanted to shoot. You may think that an automatic assault rifle is awesome, but this rifle kicks butt! The M-1 Garand is the rifle that won WWII. It weighs a ton, but is fun. It shoots great, packs a ton of wollop, and when it ejects the clip after the last round, your heart leaps. It rocked!

Favorite Song Lyrics...

2006-08-13T21:35:00.000-05:00

Bonnie and I were joking around the other day, when she reminded me of one of the best lines from a song that I have ever heard. So, here it is; I will share with you my two favorite song lyrics, and then you get to add yours. If you can top my two, I will give you wicked mad props, publicly; on my blog!

My two favorite song lyrics are:

1. "Loving you is like fryin' bacon nekkid!"

2. "I gave her a ring, Ohhh she gave me the finger. I gave her my word, she gave me the bird. I can't seem to recall why, and you know I just can't remember, but I gave her a ring Ohh she gave me the finger!" By the Kinchafoonee Cowboys

Is anyone up to topping those two?

Dang it Lawrence...

2006-08-07T14:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I told you all that if Nathan did not comment on my blog then I would out him about his favorite item on the menu (or off the menu as it were) from Julie's Fresh Kitchen. Well, I just can't do it. You see, I was trying to force Nathan to comment on my blog, and it just wouldn't be right for me to tell this highly embarrassing story about him. Dang it Lawrence, you won't allow to have any fun at your expense!

Some funny stuff I found while searching the web...

2006-08-04T13:12:00.000-05:00

I was searching the internet last Friday when I came across a site for ultra-conservatives. They had a store where you could buy t-shirts. Here are a few of my favorites.

The American Civil Liberties Union is not our friend. They hate Christians with a passion. Not to mention that they will not grant us the same rights which they fight for others to have. They are so blinded by their pseudo-intellectualism that they can't see their own inconsistencies.

I thought that this was a pretty good definition of a liberal.

Oh tis true, tis true.

Five things about me...

2006-08-03T16:17:00.000-05:00

I got tagged by Bonnie, so here I go!

Five Things in My Freezer
1. Ice (on the sides, not in a tray)
2. an Ice pack (Bonnie's)
3. My freezer is about 6" by 4"
4. My whole refridgerator only has 5 items in it.
5.

Five Things in My Closet
1. Clothes
2. dirty clothes
3. febreeze for the dirty clothes
4. clothes so dirty febreeze won't work anymore
5. cowboy hat

Five Things in My Car
1. Books
2. towels
3. Boots
4. tools
5. lots of trash

Five Things in My Purse (I don't have a purse, so I am going with my wallet)
1. Driver's license from the great state of Georgia!
2. Credit cards
3. Blockbuster Card/various other membership cards (I'm popular, all the best clubs want me on their list!)
4. Southwestern "Gold Card" (I am sure it is the mark of the beast)
5. Calling Card

I tag Geo and Nathan (Nathan, I know you peruse my blog and never comment. Now, you must. If you don't, I'm going to out you to the whole world about your favorite thing to order at Julie's Fresh Kitchen!)

A good time was had by all... (especially the idiot next to me! not Bonnie, but rather the guy on the other side of me! thanks for the help ginny!)

2006-07-29T14:22:00.000-05:00

Last night, Bo and I went to the Rangers game. (Mad props to Dennis Garcia for the free tickets!) We had a good time. The Rangers got spanked by the worst team in baseball, but we enjoyed the game anyway. I am soooooo disappointed. I had a foul ball hit right to me, but I didn't get it. I lost it in the background, and by the time I saw it again, I couldn't get my hand on it. To add injury to insult, the ball hit me on the knee, and I am swollen and sore. Oh well, I had a good time anyway.

We had an interesting individual sitting next to us at the game. We had this guy who felt the need to talk to everybody, drink massive ammounts of beer, and lead everybody in forming the wave. He tried to talk to me, but soon figured out that I was not amused with him, so he left me alone (though bothered everybody else).

The boys...

2006-07-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

Last week, I was house-sitting for a family in Crowley. They had two great dogs, Bear and Gus. Gus was a sweet, unassuming bird dog, who would take as much petting as you would give him, but would not come searching for it. Bear, the yellow lab; (aka the biggest lab in the world) would beg for a pat on the back. They loved me, and followed me everywhere I went in the house. When I would go to sleep at night, the boys would sit outside my door. When I woke up in the morning they would still be there. Geo and Thomas, I now know why you guys wanted a dog.

A blessing from God...

2006-07-25T19:03:00.000-05:00

In 2002 I was blessed of God to go to England for 3 weeks. I went with a group from SWBTS. We studied Baptist history, and toured many of the important sites of Baptist history. I was so blessed, and refreshed by that trip. I often look back upon it as a blessing from God. As I write this post, a group from SWBTS is in Oxford enjoying the time of their life. I wish them as wonderful a trip as I had. I also would like to say, that I am jealous of them as well. I wish that I could go back.

My most poignant memory of the trip was on our day trip to Tewksbury. We stopped our coach, and walked a few blocks, turned left down a little cobblestone alley; where we saw the oldest surviving Baptist church in the World. We went inside and lifted up the old boards covering the baptistry, when Dr. Leon McBeth began to tell the story of how the congregants of the church would meet at night in order to not be found out. He told us how they were considered dissenters that could and would be punished for their beliefs. He recounted how those devout believers in believers baptism by immersion would line up and form a bucket brigade, from the Cherwell river a hundred yards away; so as to fill the baptistry bucket by bucket. He then recounted how they would form that same line to empty the baptistry as well. I remember thinking, "Wow, these people took baptism, and the faith so seriously."

I later realized that there were countless others that struggled and even gave their lives for the faith. It inspired me to take faith seriously. We do not deal with pebbles when we think about and communicate our faith. We are dealing with jewels set in casings of gold. Our faith, our savior, our God, our commission; are all precious. They are more precious than anything. We should treat them as such.

In honor of Big D...

2006-07-18T21:29:00.000-05:00

I was rummaging through some of my books the other day, when I found this wonderful piece of artwork. This is Big D's rendition of me as a televangelist. If you read this, and know Big D's phone number; give him a call and give him some love!

The Norm that norms all other norms*...

2006-07-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

Today, I was reading another in a long list of Dr. Mohler's articles on the renaming of God issue. (See this)

In this article, Mohler hits the nail on the head: We have no right to rename God. What is happening here is that there are some who wish to give God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit new names which help people understand who they are. (In fact, these people wish to give names to God that promote their own theological construct (a seriously flawed one I might add.). These constructs promote the acceptance of homosexuality as norm, and the acceptance of women as head shepherds, and a long list of other Biblically incorrect ideas. The issue boils down to this, who holds the power of meaning, who has the right to say what a text means. Those who wish to rename God claim for themselves the right to force meaning onto the text (in this case the Word of God). They say: "I can impose what I believe this text to mean, no matter what the author clearly states. I have more knowledge, and I have evolved so that I know your thoughts better than you do author!" Whereas, in reality, the power of meaning lies completely in the hands of the one who writes the text (in this case God, & the inspired author). The problem that those who wish to rename God have, is that they are their own gods, and wish to form YHWH into a "god" which they can control. May this episode teach us and show us the need to remember that the Bible, God's Word; is our norm. It forms our thinking, our thinking does not form it! The Bible is the norm that norms all other norms!

*Taken from Dr. Mohler's presentations at ETS Southwest regional meeting 2006.

I felt like a little kid...

2006-07-14T14:52:00.000-05:00

I have been house-sitting for a family down in Crowley. They have a beautiful home, and everything is quiet there and peaceful. There are no trains going by 6 times a night. There are no people shooting outside your window, and no traffic speeding by 24 hours a day. But that was not the real reason I had such a wonderful time. The real reason I had such a wonderful time house-sitting was that the people whose house I was sitting, had a pool! It was a beautiful, crystal blue pool. It was cool, and refreshing to lounge in. And lounge in it I did! I went swimming everyday! I was a pool fiend. You probably don't care, but I was excited.
(I spared all of you the torture of seeing me in the pool, so I used the stock photo above.)

Oh that this might be said of us all...

2006-07-11T09:02:00.000-05:00

I was reading Dr. Mohler's blog on apologetics for the postmodern world today when I came across this quotation.

The famous skeptic philosopher David Hume was once observed on his way to hear George Whitefield preach one of his five o'clock morning messages on Christ. The observer chided Hume: "I didn't think you believed in God." Hume replied, and referred to Whitefield: "I don't. But I am convinced this man does."

I encourage you, live a bold faith in God and in his Son!

A interesting assessment of liberal "christianity"...

2006-07-10T10:35:00.000-05:00

While reading Dr. Mohler's blog, I came across this quote talking about the decline in mainline church attendance.

When your religion says "whatever" on doctrinal matters, regards Jesus as just another wise teacher, refuses on principle to evangelize and lets you do pretty much what you want, it's a short step to deciding that one of the things you don't want to do is get up on Sunday morning and go to church.

You can read the rest of the article this quote was taken from here.

Shootin' stuff cures a multitude of ills...

2006-07-03T08:20:00.000-05:00

Well, as you all know, my hopes of England winning the World Cup have been dashed, and I was truly sad for a little while after Saturday's match. However, I did not have much time to be sad because Emily's birthday party was Saturday afternoon. So Bonnie and I drove out to Weatherford, cooked some burgers, talked, laughed, and had a generally great time. We then got to the highlight of the night (at least for me), the shooting. Thomas set up some targets in his backyard, and we mad mincemeat out of them. All my stress was blown away with each one of those targets I blasted.

Bonnie and I enjoying the day.

Here's Thomas "Dead-eye" Winborn

The girls got into the pistol packin'fun giving us their rendition of Charlie's Angels.

I'm sad...

2006-07-01T14:35:00.001-05:00

Well, my mighty Brits fell to the Portuguese today. They fought valiantly, and lost on penalty kicks. I am disappointed, but understood that they didn't really have the best team. They played well though, and went deep into the Cup. Now, I think that I will support...

Germany

For all of you that remember the 80's...

2006-06-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

And I don't want to hear anything about how old I am!

Things are really, really slow at work today...

2006-06-28T11:46:00.000-05:00

This poor guy never saw it coming.

Another funny one...

2006-06-28T11:39:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am bored!

I don't care who you are, this is funny...

2006-06-27T08:59:00.000-05:00

I really want to do this to somebody. I have dreamed of filling someone's Escalade for months now.

England moves on to the quarterfinals...

2006-06-25T23:26:00.000-05:00

Whew! The British futballers squeaked by Ecuador today! I am extremely happy. The English side played poorly, as they have the whole Cup, but squeaked out with a win. England's defense is pretty tough, but does have holes in it. David Beckham has continued to make his golden foot useful for the English side. All cup long he has placed his corner kicks, and free kicks well. Today he placed one very well. Beckham bent one right by the Ecuadoran goal keeper, just inside the post. It is said that defense wins championships. But anyone who has ever won a championship will tell you, that it does not hurt to have the cards fall your way too. England has been that way. They have a good defense, and the cards are falling their way as well. Hopefully this will continue and the Golden Cup will live in London.

Why I am rooting for England in the World Cup...

2006-06-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

In case you are wondering (and I know that you are not) I am a fan of the Three Lions side. I like England for many reasons. First, I have visited England and I loved my visit. The people were very nice, and the views gorgeous. Second, I love the fans of English soccer. They are the loudest and best. None of this relying on hot chicks to draw attention to your fans like those silly Brazilian do. (Besides, there are no hot chicks in England, except maybe Rosamund Pike & Keira Knightly . Bonnie please don't get upset.) I also like England's side because I love the grit of their footballers. David Beckham may be a nothing but a pretty face to us in the States, but he is a tough player. I like Wayne Rooney, who has the tenacity of an English Bulldog. I also like the way the Englanders don't give up. Toughness is big with me. Finally, I root for England because the Americans are wimps! The US soccer team was made up of a bunch of mamby pamby whinny babies with no heart. We came to the worlds biggest sporting event with no excitement about being there. The US side played lackadaisical soccer, and let their fans down. I saw it in the first match, that this American side was willing to lay down and accept defeat. It was at that moment that I decided not to invest myself in them. So there you have it, that is why I support the Three Lions club. Though they may not make it far into the World Cup, I can at least support their Lion hearts.

Thoughts running through the mind of a near graduate...

2006-06-19T15:24:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking a lot about whether or not I have what it takes to be a pastor of a local congregation. I know so little of God's word, of man, of leadership, of business, of preaching, etc. I often think, how in the world can I do this. I know that it is not up to me to do great and mighty things, and that it is up to God to do so. But I still think about such things. I have been thinking lately about how little I know about how to treat the people whom I will be serving. I came across this article today, which offered me some answers to my questions.

When writing the post on Pastors as Protectors, I felt sure Luther has spoken to the issue and just this evening I came across this quote:

“A preacher must be a fighter and a shepherd. He must have teeth in his mouth. Teaching is a very difficult art. Paul contends (2 Tim 4:2; Titus 1:9), as does Peter (2 Peter 2), that sound doctrine must be urged and that those who contradict must be answered.”
However, the right sort of ‘protecting’ will be that sort that arises from deep affection for the people, not simply a hankering for conflict. This deep love, “mother love” (1 Thess 2:7) as Luther calls it, is one thing that seems so terribly lacking in ministries today. This quote is great!

“Men who hold the office of the ministry should have the heart of a mother toward the church; for if they have no such heart, they soon become lazy and disgusted, and suffering, in particular, will find them unwilling. … [Luther drawing from John 21 paraphrases the words of Jesus] Unless your heart toward the sheep is like that of a mother toward her children- a mother, who walks through fire to save her children- you will not be fit to be a preacher. Labor, work, unthankfulness, hatred, envy, and all kinds of sufferings will meet you in this office. If, then, the mother heart, the great love, is not there to drive the preachers, the sheep will be poorly served.”
Amen! And may the Lord grant a fresh baptism of this sort of love for the people of God. Then there will be a decrease in the treating of God’s people as merely steps on a ladder and more awareness of them as the people of God “which He obtained with His own blood” (Acts 20:28)."

This one was good as well: "men in general today do not think often enough about our role as protectors, so also there is a lack of consideration of the pastor’s role as protector. But, this is certainly a key aspect of our role. Paul’s description of the pastor in Titus 1 closes with:

holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that
he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who
contradict. (v9)
The reason for this qualification is seen immediately in 1:10f. Pastors need to be the sort of men who can refute false teachers because false teachers are around and they will cause trouble unless they are dealt with. This is also in view when Paul exhorted the Ephesians elders:

"Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears” (Acts 20:28-31)
You cannot serve the church as pastor if you are unwilling to confront error for the good of the church. Those who cower at danger or try to say these issues are not their concern show themselves hirelings and cowards. The true shepherd is willing to give his life for his flock. Surely here we are to imitate the pattern of the Chief Shepherd who said:

I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. He
who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who is not the owner of the sheep, sees
the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and
scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and is not concerned about
the sheep. (John 10:11-13)
The hireling mentality is too easily encouraged today. The hireling thinks more of his next move, of his reputation, his advancement. The shepherd loves his flock and is ready to die for them. This is not the creating of unnecessary conflict (as some take it). This is love in action, and can only really emerge as we establish close knit community where pastors are not CEO’s or simply hired guns but rather members of the community, the family, who have been called out for service. Brothers, let us protect the church."

I guess part of being a leader is to be strong and very courageous, but not for yourself, but rather for others; putting their best interest ahead of your own, yet being indebted to the cross, and the savior thereof; and not to man. Leading a local congregation will be a daunting task. I often do not relish the idea of it.

More soccer news

2006-06-17T16:13:00.000-05:00

Week two of the World Cup was an exciting one. My own favorite team, England; won again. Albeit an ugly win, they won just the same. This assures them of moving on to the round of 16. Hopefully, the extra time will give Wayne Rooney time to heal, so that he can make an impact for the Three Lions.

Today, there were two great matches. Ghana upset the Czech Republic. This was huge because Ghana had never even scored a goal in the World Cup before today, much less win a match. And the US played a great match tying Italy. With this tie, the US needs to win against Ghana, and Italy to beat the Czech Rep. If both of those things happen, then the US will sqeak into the next round.

For those of you who don't like soccer, you should give it a try. It will play with your emotions! I don't know much about the game, but watching gets me on my ear. Every made goal is a rejoice, and every missed goal is equal to the loss of a kingdom. Children cheer and run wildly for every win, and grown men cry at losses. All over the world, millions of man-hours of work are being lost. Pubs all over Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, North and South America are filled to capacity. And people on every continent are finding themselves kissing perfect strangers because of what is happening on few grassy fields in Germany. It is wonderful!

The World Cup...

2006-06-12T13:19:00.000-05:00

Well, I am somewhat happy with the first weekend of the World Cup. (I know most of you do not care, but it is my blog, and I will write about what I want to.) My favorite team, England; won their first match. However, I am disappointed that they only scored one goal, and they didn't even really score that one. In case you didn't get up at 8:00 am Saturday morning to watch, David Beckham drilled one on goal when a defender from Paraguay headed it in for him. They looked pretty anemic the rest of the match. The three lions really need for Wayne Rooney to come back and give them a spark.

I am still pulling for the Orange Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire. They are my hope for a team from Africa making it to the next round.

Calvinism and the BoSox...

2006-06-09T12:51:00.000-05:00

Bart Giamatti did not grow up (as he had dreamed) to play second base for the Red Sox. He became a professor at Yale, and then, in time . . . president of the National Baseball League. He never lost his love for the Boston Red Sox. It was as a Red Sox fan, he later realized that human beings are fallen, and that life is filled with disappointment. The path to comprehending Calvinism in modern America, he decided, begins at Fenway Park.

I stole this from a comment on Lance's my space.

One of my favorite authors...

2006-05-30T21:01:00.000-05:00

I was reading this when I remembered one of my favorite authors. Lewis Grizzard was a beloved writer for the Atlanta Journal and Constitution. I remember long summer evenings at my Grandmother's house, listening to my Grandfather read Lewis Grizzard's latest yarn about the University of Georgia, or Weyman C. Wannamaker a great American; to my Grandmother. She would throw her head back, slap her knee and laugh uncontrollably. Here is a sample of Lewis' humor.

Let's Put An End To Salad Bars

At long last, I am getting some assistance in my ongoing crusade against what I consider to be a dastardly affront to the American consumer, the salad bar.
In a recent edition of The Wall Street Journal, there was a front- page article indicating that not only are salad bars, in my opinion, an insult to the average American eat-outer (Who wants to go to the trouble and expense of eating out and then have to get up and make his or her own salad?), but they can be a health hazard.

The Journal points out that because salad bars usually feature a number of perishable foods and because you don't know who's been handling the food before you got up to make your salad, there is a chance you could wind up with food poisoning as a result of a visit to a salad bar.

The Journal also points out that people can sneeze on the lettuce, stick their fingers in the blue cheese dressing and drop a hair or two on the feastings as well. Fad got out of hand

There are even worse things that can happen. I quote from the Journal's article: "Jack Williams, a Los Angeles County health official, was piling lettuce on his plate one day when he saw a youngster pick his nose and then use the same hand to pluck a cherry tomato and fling it back."

Grr-oss.

What happened to the salad bar in this country is what happens to a great many fads. It got out of hand.

Wendy's has a salad bar, Burger King has a salad bar and it likely won't end there. I am awaiting the day chiropractors put a salad bar in their offices.

Picking up germs at a salad bar isn't the only risk the customer takes when he or she approaches a salad bar, either.

Some restaurants do put a "sneeze shield" on their salad bars, but the problem there is with a shield, you have to bend over and then reach way in the back, which is where most restaurants put all the good stuff, like the cherry tomatoes.

A person could severely injure his or her back, attempting to make a move only a contortionist could pull off without fear of winding up in traction. Come to think of it, perhaps chiropractors are the ones who have been behind this sal ad bar idea all along. Don't fix your own

Here is what we as Americans should do to get rid of salad bars forever:

When you have finished giving your order and the waitress or waiter says, "Help yourself to the salad bar," you reply, "Are you out of your mind? I worked all day. My wife/husband worked all day. We decided to treat ourselves by going out to dinner.

"We want to sit here at this table, have a couple of drinks, and then eat dinner.

"We don't want to have to mix our own drinks. We don't want to have to prepare our entree, and we do not - under any circumstance - want to get up and go to the trouble of fighting the mob at the salad bar.

"We demand someone prepare our salad for us. We will tell them exactly what we want on our salad, and we expect them to be brought here at our table promptly and we expect them to be served with a smile. Understand, bean-sprout-breath?"

If everyone were that forceful, we could rid our country of salad bars and make it a much better place in which to live, raise a family and eat out.

Move quickly before one more nose-picker has the opportunity to get his hands on our tomatoes.

Some of my favorite Grizzard quotes are:

Instead of getting married again, I'm going to find a woman I don't like and just give her a house.

Lewis’ advice to Atlantans in case of nuclear war: "If you live on the South side of Atlanta, get on I-75 and go south. If you live of the North side of Atlanta get on I-75 and go north. If you are a Yankee get on 285." (For those of you not familiar with Atlanta highways, I-285 is a loop around the city)

The public, more often than not, will forgive mistakes, but it will not forgive trying to wriggle and weasel out of one.

Dang it Chavez, there's no need to be independent...

2006-05-25T23:25:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang,

Geo and I went to one of the best baseball games I have ever seen. The Rangers got the stuffing knocked out of them early in the game, but the Rangers' big bats won the evening. Bonnie's favorite player, Rod Barrajas; hit a grand slam. The 23 year old second baseman hit two chili peppers over the left field wall. Big Tex; Mark Texiera blasted a homerun, and Phil Nevin popped a walk-off homer over the left-center field fence.

Geo, thanks for ticket, and for the great evening. You are a great friend, and I am blessed to have one like you.

You might be a redneck if...

2006-05-23T20:50:00.000-05:00

Well, it is never too late to blog about a great time. So here is the story of our night at Thomas' new digs. Thomas, as most of you know has a new house out in the Weatherford area complete with a large empty back yard that is perfect for shootin'. So, we all loaded up and headed west for some charred beef, and some hot lead. A "load" of fun was had by all. Here is "Bullseye Bonnie" shooting the .22.
Here is Thomas having fast fun with the AK. I think he liked it, but the surprised look on his face after he shot it was a mixture of "oooh I like that but whoa it was powerful."

Here's Emily, looking like the pin-up girl for the NRA. She was a great shot with that shot gun! Thomas, you had better never make her mad!

Here's Madison. Who knew that such a great theological mind could be such a good shot as well. Madison, I just want to remind you that that sort of violence is never to be used against heretics!

P.S. Congratulations to Thomas "the Turkey Assassin" Winborn for his recent success hunting. He bagged a large turkey this past weekend.

Wedding News...

2006-05-22T17:27:00.000-05:00

Ha! had you all thinking that I was going to divulge something about Bonnie and I didn't I?

The real reason for this post is to let all of you know that Nathan & Beth are now hitched. The ceremony went quite well, and was beautiful. The reception was wonderful; God was honored, and a good time was had by all. The Bride and Groom are currently enjoying their wedded bliss in Andalusia, Alabama, followed by Shreveport,LA, and then Bridgeport,TX.

I really wanted to say Congratulations ! to Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence, and I also wanted to say thank you for letting me be a part of that special time in your life. I consider it a privilege to have been there.

Beth & Nathan,
May the Lord, who can do greater things than we could ever ask or imagine; bless you with his presence and his grace in your marriage. May he be the tie that binds you both together, and the wellspring from which your love for each other will flow. And may your lives together glorify His precious and great name. Amen.

As a former teacher, I found this funny...

2006-05-18T00:28:00.000-05:00

SICK OF THOSE HIGH PAID TEACHERS???I, for one, am sick and tired of those high paid teachers.Their hefty salaries are driving up taxes, and they only work nine or ten months ayear! It's time we put things in perspective and pay them for what they do...baby-sit! We can get that for less than minimum wage. That's right...I would give them $3.00 dollars an hour and only the hours they worked, not any of that silly planningtime. That would be 15 dollars a day. Each parent should pay 15 dollars a day for these teachers to baby-sit their children. Now, how many do they teach in a day .... maybe 25. Then that's 15 X 25=$375 a day. But remember they only work 180 days a year!I'm not going to pay them for any vacations. Let's see...that's 375x180=$67,500.00(Hold on,! my calculator must need batteries!)What about those special teachers or the ones with master's degrees? Well, we could pay them minimum wage just to be fair. Let's round it off to $6.00 an hour. That would be $6 times 5 hours times 25 children times180 days = $135,000.00 per year.Wait a minute, there is something wrong here!!!There sure is, duuh????!!

I stole this from Lance Perkins Blog.

My new crush...

2006-05-11T23:37:00.000-05:00

I have bored you all by talking, ad nauseum; about how I want a motorcycle. I still do want one, and can really see myself speeding around on one. I am not one of those bike only guys though. I am inspired by other gas monsters as well.

This is a 63' Impala convertible, my new crush. It looks like it has hydraulic lifts in it, which lift the body up and down over the axles. That would be awesome. I could so, see myself cruising down the street in this with the music blaring. I would love to get the four door version of this behemoth, and trick it out. My future son, should God bless me with one, is going to so love his dad; because Daddy wants to give him a car like this. I want to be the Dad that lets his son drive a car like this to the prom, or drives his little princess around the football field in it at homecoming.

Sorry about the proliferation of posts, but when I get in the mood to blog, I blog.

Whew!

2006-05-11T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well guys and dolls,

I should have known better, but...well...you all know me. Last year I took a two week, 4 hour a day class. It was good, but wore me out. Well, being the glutton for punishment that I am, I decided to do it again. By the time you read this post, I will be half way through a class on Christology; that has stretched my mind and my endurance. My professor is I. Howard Marshall, revered professor and author from Aberdeen, Scotland. He is great, a great scholar, a kind man, and a cheeky individual. I am priviledged to be able to learn from such a man.

Above is Professor Marshall. Doesn't he just look like the Grand-dad that you just love to go sit with and talk to about anything. He looks like the kind of Grand-dad that will sneak you an extra scoop of ice-cream, and then go rebuke the local heretic.

From Hoochie Mamma to Holy Mamma...

2006-05-11T22:36:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang,

I want y'all to know how funny my girlfriend really is. Sometimes Bonnie just comes up with the funniest things in the world. Tonight, we were driving to Applebee's for a little late night din din, when Bonnie and I were talking about somebody being a Hoochie Mamma. Somehow, Bonnie got to talking about Rahab, when she busted out: "she went from being a Hoochie Mamma to a Holy Mamma!" I nearly died laughing. Bo, you get mad props!

I want to be a part of it, New York, New York...

2006-05-01T17:28:00.000-05:00

I have always wanted to go to New York City. I don't want to stay for long. I am sure that I would not fit in there. Honestly I would probably be scared to death if I did go; but I want to go none the less. New York is home to so many cool things. It is home to some of the most interesting and and beautiful works of architecture in the world. New York has such a neat history and culture. I would love to soak it in for a week or two. Life is different there, and I for one; would like to experience it.
Grand Central Station would be one of my first stops in NYC. They say it is one of the most beautiful buildings on earth. It takes us back to the 20's & 30's when the train was king, and when style and class meant something.

This is the Chrysler building. It is one of the architectural gems of New York. After this, I want to go to the Empire State Building.

I definitely want to ride on the Staten Island Ferry and get a good long look at this pretty lady. She to is a marvel to see. New York is living proof of what God said about men during the time of the Tower of Babel. God has given us great intellectual and physical abilities, the ability to plan and produce marvels like you see on this post. Yet, if left to our own devices we, like those in Babel; could use that intellect and ability for the ugliest of things. That is what I see in New York, the great things man can do, and the way that we use our gifts poorly. The Statue of Liberty was given to the people of the U.S. by the people of France as a gesture of brotherly love. By God's grace, we are capable of loving one another, and we are capable of great feats, if only we would turn them towards God and his purposes. New York makes me pray for us to turn our awe inspiring abilities towards God, and using them for his glory.
This is the Flatiron Building. What an ingenious use of space, which is of course at a premium in NYC.

I want to go see the Brooklyn Bridge. It was a marvel of ingenuity, and mechanical design in its day. Besides, check out that view.

I would love to go to Yankee Stadium. I would love to watch the boys from Bean Town beat up on the Bronx Bombers. I don't like the Yankees, but everbody should see the House that Ruth Built. Besides, I have heard my Dad talk about it so many times, that I simplymust go see it.

What about you? What would you do on a trip to the Big Apple? Help me plan my future vacation.

More art I love...

2006-04-28T21:14:00.000-05:00

This is "Route 6 Eastham" by Edward Hopper. He is one of my favorite American painters. Born in the 1890's, and living until the 1960's, Hopper was a leader in the American realist school. His art heavily influenced the Pop Art movement of the 1960's - Present.

Hopper painted things that he saw everyday. He painted them in a way to draw interest to them. He saw ordinary things as extrordinary. He painted everything in sort of a "white-washed" fashion. Everything is sterile and clean.

This is the Edward Hopper painting that all of you would know. This is "Nighthawks."

A Great Hymn... (That I had never heard before)...

2006-04-24T01:47:00.000-05:00

Well Gang, I might have found myself a new favorite hymn. Tonight, our past interim music minister came back to lead us to God's throne in worship. Mike Houston did a wonderful job as our interim music minister, always challenging us with hymns not often sung, and more theologically correct hymns. Well tonight he chose a gem. I love this hymn and have been captured by it all night. My pastor did not have a chance of getting through to me because my imagination was captured by the simplicity of this tune and prayer-like words of this hymn. Read, and enjoy, and I hope that you will be edified by this hymn by Ray Palmer (1808-1887) & Lowell Mason (1792-1872).

My Faith Looks Up To Thee:
My faith looks up to Thee,Thou Lamb of Calvary, Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray, take all my guilt away,O let me from this day be wholly Thine!

May Thy rich grace impartStrength to my fainting heart, my zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me, O may my love to Thee,Pure warm, and changeless be, a living fire!

While life’s dark maze I tread,And griefs around me spread, be Thou my Guide;
Bid darkness turn to day, wipe sorrow’s tears away,Nor let me ever stray from Thee aside.

When ends life’s transient dream,When death’s cold sullen stream over me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love, fear and distrust remove;O bear me safe above, a ransomed soul!

For MG's viewing pleasure...and mine...

2006-04-20T00:15:00.000-05:00

Vincent Van Gogh is one of my favorite impressionists. His color choice and bold paintings keep me interested. This is a painting that I fell in love with while at Gainesville College. It was on the front of my Intro to Psyche book. I firmly believe that Dr. Ellen Pastorino tried to drive me crazy in that class, which is ironic because, as we all know Van Gogh was a little off his rocker. Yet this painting kept me sane (somewhat) in psychology.
The painting is entitled: "First Steps."

Van Gogh's "Mulberry Tree"

Vincent Van Gogh's "Olive Trees"

For your viewing pleasure.. and mine...

2006-04-17T18:48:00.000-05:00

This is a painting by Paul Cezanne. I fell in love with impressionist forms of painting while taking Art Appreciation at Gainesville College. My art instructor was a school bus driver, but boy did he know his art history, and boy did he ever love art. I came across this in a google search, and wanted to brighten my day up a bit, and hopefully yours as well.

The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens...

2006-04-14T19:31:00.000-05:00

Bonnie and I went to the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. We had a wonderful time. There were thousands of beautiful plants, gorgeous ponds, koi, turtles, waterfalls, and pagodas. We spent most of our time in the peaceful Japanese Garden, walking around and enjoying the serene landscapes.

2006-04-14T19:28:00.000-05:00

A Beautiful view in the BotanicalGardens

2006-04-14T19:24:00.000-05:00

A serene little bridge. Notice the Koi in the water. There were tons of Koi in the Pond.

2006-04-14T19:22:00.000-05:00

There are great little places to sit and just enjoy the beautiful views. The Botanical Gardens does a wonderful job of creating framed views of the Garden.

2006-04-14T19:19:00.000-05:00

This is a beautiful little waterfall leading from an upper pond to the main pond of the Garden. There were some well fed Koi in all the bonds.

So close yet so far away...

2006-04-10T19:46:00.000-05:00

The more and more I study and read, the more and more I see how sin has completely twisted and warped God's creation, and his intentions for the way things should have been.

Tonight I was reading about how mankind settles for far less than God's intended best. Though we see and know that God promises good to us, we so often settle for less. We know that if we deny ourselves here on earth so as to do God's will, then there will be a far greater reward for us in heaven. So why do we not lay down all that keeps us from God's best, and work to please Him and do His will? Because we are sinful! How great will heaven be that we will see God's best, and not settle anymore for the mundane.

Here are a couple of passages for your good pleasure:

Indeed if we consider the unblushing promises of rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy has been offered to us. We are far too easily pleased, like an ignorant child who goes on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by an offer of a holiday at the sea.

C.S. Lewis

If there be so certain and glorious a rest for the saints, why is there no more industrious seeking after it? One would think, if a man did once hear of such unspeakable glory to be obtained, and believed what he heard to be true, he should be transported with the vehemency of his desire after it, and should almost forget to eat and drink, and should care for nothing else, and speak and inquire of nothing else, but how to get his treasure. And yet people who hear of it daily, and profess to believe it as a fundamental article of their faith, do as little mind it, or labour for it, as if they had never heard of any such thing, or did not believe in the word they hear.

Richard Baxter

How many of the "Great is your reward in Heavens" do we forget, and never act on because we are too busy settling for sess than God's best?

Soda - size me...

2006-03-30T12:23:00.000-06:00

Well, I have decided to give up soft drinks again. First of all, the caffeine is bad for me. It makes me a fiend, searching all over my room for change so that I can have one hit of the good stuff from the machine downstairs.

Second, soft drinks are filled with calories. The average soft drink has 170-240 calories. I usually consumed 3-4 a day ammounting to 600-800 calories a day. On top of those facts, the ammount of sugar in a soft drink is enormous. My dad is diabetic, so I probably will be one day. So I have several reasons to kick the Coke habit.

However, as we know from previous posts on this blog; I am addicted to Cokes much as a Heroine addict is to his nectar. So, I have a plan. Just as the Heroine addict gets a shot of Methadone from time to time, I will have a shot of Diet Mountain Dew from time to time. It tastes good, has no sugar, yet has the caffeine I crave. Mind you, I will not have 3-4 a day, nor will I have even 1 a day. But when the cravings are too much, I'm going to drop a hit of the Dew.

I'm really writing this to warn my friends that I am crawling back up on the wagon again, so be prepared for the mood swings and twitching. I apologize in advance for being short with you all, and the nasty looks I will give you all over the next couple of weeks.

Maybe I should call the Super Size Me guy to do a documentary on my recovery from my soft drink induced stupor.

It is official, the excitement can begin...

2006-03-23T22:40:00.000-06:00

I know that this comes as no surprise to most of you, but I am a little weird. I love American football, pads, big hits, touchdowns, bratwurst, coca-cola, and all. However, four years ago I watched the World Cup in Korea. Since then I have been a futbol fan as well. That is right, I like soccer. I have been keeping up with the English Pemier League for a few years. I like to watch soccer on tv. It is a lot of fun. Well, the World Cup, soccer's biggest event; the world's biggest sporting event, is just around the corner, and I am excited about it.

The World Cup rocks. For the rest of the world, this is the biggest and most important event in the sporting world. No Continent is left unrepresented (well, except for Antarctica, but it doesn't really count now does it.) All over the world, little kids and grown men will sit around radios and televisions listening with deep pride and nervous tension to see how their team will do. Whole countries will shut down on the day that their team plays. People will shout, scream, cry, and wail over the events that take place on a relatively small piece of meticulously manicured grass in Germany. What an event!

As far as my knowledge goes, no team from Africa has ever won the world cup, so I would personally love to see one of the teams from Africa: Togo, Cote D'Ivoire, and Angola; to win. My favorite team from Africa is Cote D' Ivoire. I would shout for joy if they won. This is Aruna Dindane. He is one of the great young players from the Ivory Coast.

Though I would love it if a team from Africa would win, I would love it even more if my favorite team, England; would win. This is England's youngest and best player, Wayne Rooney. He has impressed people with his play in the EPL this past season, and promises to push England far into the World Cup.

I will be looking for all of you at the Fox and the Hound to join me in the World Cup madness very soon. I hope that you will fall in love with it the way I have.

Fun stuff, good times...

2006-03-22T13:05:00.000-06:00

Geo had this on his blog, so I stole it. So, what you do is this: you find the last 15 people to respond on your blog, then you answer the given questions about them. Here are my last 15 commentators, and the questions I answered about them.
1. Bonnie
2. Robin
3. Garrett
4. Madison
5. Sarah B.
6. Geo
7. Ginny Mc
8. Kristen H.
9. Sherri Ann
10. Emily
11. Lew
12. Brandi
13. Thomas
14.Holly
15. Ben C.

1.Have you ever kissed #4? . May it never be so. (Madison you are a nice guy, but a guy none the less, so no nookie for you!)

2.What's the best memory you have of #10? Hanging out @ halfway Humps eating supper and talking

3.Why are you friends with #9? . Sherri Ann has a bubbly personality. We met through Thomas.

4.When's the next time you're gonna see #6? Good Question, Geo when are we getting together?

5.What does #12 love most in the world? Jesus, Her Hubby Lew, and those fake bullpups from Mississippi.

6.Tell something juicy about number #15: Ben has gotten himself chin deep in the current debate about whether or not missionaries may have a prayer language, and by whom their baptism must be administered. See this.

7.What impresses you about #1? Bonnie loves me so well. Bonnie never gets mad at me, though she should. She loves me as close to the way Jesusloves as does as anyone I have ever met. Bonnie loves to sing praises to the Lord. And if I may say so, she is just flat out hottastic!

8.What do you like about #8? Kristen loves God and it shows. You can see that she is a Christian in the way she walks and talks. She has a great heart.

9.What's your favorite memory of #2? Unfortunately Robin and I are not close friends, but I have always admired Robin's intelligence, and the book report/book critique outline that she created. It is a great rubric for grading papers. It allows the writer to know what the professor is looking for. (I got a C on the only paper graded under that rubric, So Robin, I am a little upset. Just Joking!)

10.What was your first impression of #7? Who is this hilariously funny girl? I though she was cheeky
11.How did you meet #3? I met Garrett at SWBTS. He lived down the hall from me. He was one of the few guys outside of Cell Block C that would respond to you if you said hello.

12.Do you think #13 could kill someone? In about 20 years I could see Thomas righteously burning heretics at the stake like Calvin did. Or maybe if someone stole his new Bow or Jack Johnson CD.

13.Is #11 your best friend? Lew is probably not my absolute best friend, but he sure is close. Lew is a great guy, honest as the day is long, and striving hard to serve the Lord.

14.Do you think #2 has a crush on you? NO! She is far too much in love with her hubby! I have a story to tell about Robin, and how much she loves her hubby, but I don't want to embarrass her too much.

15.Who does # 14 spend the most time with? Holly spends most of her time with her beau-hunk Glen. However it comes on great authority that she spends a lot of time with the Gilmore Girls as well.

16.What is the last thing you did with #1? In person? -- We drove 12+ hours to Fort Worth from Alabama. She tried to kiss me when we got home, but I told her that girls were gross, and I didn't do that kind of thing!

17.Have you ever been to #3's house? Garrett lives in Atlanta or Maryland right now, so no. But I did enter Garrett's dorm room once or twice. He's neat and clean

18.Would you ever kiss #5? Sarah is married, and hello a girl, see question 16.

19.How do you know #4? Madison and I go to school together, and have had classes together. He is far more intelligent than I.

20.Have you ever slept with #5? No

21.Do you think #6 is sexy? Oh dear goodness NOOOOOO! He's not just sexy, He's dead sexy baby yeah!

22.Have you ever liked #7? Yes

23.Where is the last place you went with #8? It has been a long time since Kristen and I have done anything together, but I think that we went out to eat at Billy Miner's.

24.Are you real close to #9? Unfortunately No

25.What kind of relationship do you have with #10? Unfortunately Emily and I only see each other once every blue moon.

26.Have you ever kissed #11? No, no way, no how, never

27.Have you ever been to the movies with #12? No, but I did go to England with her!

28Have you ever gotten in trouble with #13? Are there a lot of people in China? I don't think we've ever been caught though!

29.Would you ever make a move on #14? No, Holly is married.

30.What do you and #15 talk about the most? Ben has moved away from Seminary, so we don't talk often. However, when we do talk it is usually about a theological topic or how things are at his church.

2006-03-20T14:37:00.000-06:00

Well, I went to Athens, AL this weekend. I was a little worried, because I was going to meet most of Bonnie's friends from Auburn. Not only that, but I was going to AL so that Bonnie could sing in a choir reunion. I thought, "Oh great, a boring choir reunion with a bunch of white folk trying to sound like they have soul." Wow, was I ever wrong! Let me tell you, this choir rocks! I have not seen a group of people like this in a long time. All of them, and I do mean all of them worshipped and sang to God with all of their might. The choir director is a man of God who led them by the Spirit. The Holy Spirit moved, and I found myself wanting to shout and dance. It was all I could do not to just to throw my head back and shout with all my might my praises of God. I laughed and cried, and worshipped God like I have not done in a long time. It was awesome!
My favorite song that they sung was Order my Steps. Here is an excerpt from that song:

I want to walk worthy,
my calling to fulfill.
Please order my steps Lord,
and I’ll do Your blessed will.
The world is ever changing,
but You are still the same;
if You order my steps,
I’ll praise Your name.
(imagine this Kirk Franklin Style)