play ball!

The Brewers down 7-1 in the 3rd inning, the Cardinals not cutting them any slack. Sam steps to the plate with bases loaded. Coach White and Sam exchange a look, a smile. Everyone waiting for a big play to turn this game around. With a big smile on his face, as if he knows what is about to happen. As if he has planned it just this way. First pitch, CRACK! He drives in over the right field fence, Grand Slam! Brewers 5, Cardinals 7.

The Brewers rally to win it 10-7. Two strong teams, a great game.

Report Card Rewards...

Recently I posted a poll on Facebook, asking my friends to weigh in on the issue of paying children for grades earned in school, with payday being report card day. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation that followed. Many of my very insightful friends, some teachers and all wonderful parents, contributed.

Up to this point, we have taught our children that the grades they receive are their reward. Being on a "principal's list" or "honor roll" - all those are set up to reward their work. We have attempted to instill that the opportunity to learn is reward enough. "I am not Johnnie's parent", "That is between him and his parents" are some of the responses that became familiar to our report card day conversations. The focus seemed to always land back on the question of monetary reward. In light of recent motivational challenges, I began to question. I began to read articles and do some research on the topic.

Intrinsic motivation, one of our goals in raising the boys is to be self motivated in accomplishing all that goes into the mission they are called to. Gene and I have set out to leverage their God given gifts that equip them to honor God, their Creator in the way they live their lives. Doing the work of learning included, they may have to do what they do for very little earthly reward. We ought not live our lives for "what is in it for us". Along this path, many friends who shared their views felt that a community - a family - celebration of a good report card was called for - monetary reward not being necessary, possibly out of line with held values. I do agree.

However, if we view going to school as their "job" rather than "vocation", this would not confuse the issue of also providing monetary compensation. This could prepare them for the compensation-for-work-done system of the work place. That would not take away from the intrinsic motivation - it's more of a bonus. All the while providing a little extra incentive for doing their homework - not bad.

Entitlement was brought up by another parent. This could be one of those unintended consequences to be aware of, true. A red flag: "Johnnie gets..."or "Everyone else is..." I heard a couple stories of kids deciding that they don't need the money and therefore, working for grades becomes unnecessary as well. We probably all agree that we must be careful not to give the impression that they should be only be required to do what is rewarded to their satisfaction (we have all worked along side those people, right).

Research shows that monetary rewards for grades is minimally effective. At times it is only temporarily effective. As was often cited in our FB conversation - the motivational factors varies from one individual to another. What works for one child, may not have any impact on another. This may be the case in our household - fairness between siblings being a whole other conversation. My friend from Des Moines points us back to being in line with our family values, good word.

The point that swayed me in the direction we are taking now is the one made by several who differentiated between the getting good grades because they turn their assignments in and grades as a true refection on what they learn. It was actually one of the teachers that contributed to this line of thought. So, when my kids grades are a true reflection on what they are learning, and the effort required in the process, we will need to reevaluate. For now, while my kids grades are more of a refection on their organizational skills and their ability to remain focused for a certain period of time, I may need to provide another little incentive. It neutralized the "law of unintended consequences", at least for now.

A perfect balance in this was suggested by one of the wisest people I know. Parents celebrate and teach the kids to value their work, put in the effort, do their best, love to learn no matter what the external rewards and Grandparents provide the monetary reward. Love that!

I very much enjoyed hearing the creativity that goes into parenting - those who built in a cost for below average grades. One of my Nashville friends suggested "real" pizza...where in Nashville, TN do you get "real pizza"?! I liked the trip to Des Moines, a bit more costly than than any reward I was considering - but ...a visit with a wonderful forever friend, priceless!

We finally decided. (Truth is, Gene actually decided rather quickly -it was a bit more of a process for me as you can see.) Because both boys will easily get all A's if they simply hand in their homework, we decided to add incentive. They are learning that with reward comes responsibility - they will also be accepting financial responsibility beyond "Mom, can I have..." "Dad, can we...?" They will now have earned money for those expenses. This, they actually seemed to like. (Maybe because "no" is too often the response to those questions?) This term they are being rewarded with a small amount of money (adds up) for A's and B's. Next term the reward is a year end party with friends, and extra money to spend on that party for A's and B's. They both wrote their own goals for each class and we opened a savings account. Now, we'll see...

My reward for all the effort put into this assignment - a morning at the Pfunky Griddle with my friend.

We each have certain responsibilities that must be carried out if the family is to work together, children included. Each family member receives benefits that come from working together and benefits from simply being a member of the family (such as an allowance).

By teaching that each family works and lives together for mutual growth and benefit, and putting allowances in that light, parents and children alike can establish the right attitudes and principles. The key is to give children their allowances and require them to do their household chores without tying the two together like a work-for-hire agreement.

We have responsibilities...we also receive many blessings simply for being His children. Giving children an allowance, Crown Financial Ministries

Bellevue Middle School Band Trip: Disney.

the band at Epcot just after the Disney workshops:

crazy fun at Disney after all performances completed:

last day at Universal - roller coasters and water rides!

and for some chaparone free time:

Madison, Wisconsin

thinking of my friends as they endure another day of winter ... another day of peaceful demonstration. may you find a solution that is an acceptable compromise.

SATURDAY'S CAPITOL SQUARE DEMONSTRATIONS

Law Enforcement Praises Protesters' Conduct

On behalf of all the law enforcement agencies that helped keep the peace on the Capitol Square Saturday, a very sincere thank you to all of those who showed up to exercise their First Amendment rights. You conducted yourselves with great decorum and civility, and if the eyes of the nation were upon Wisconsin, then you have shown how democracy can flourish even amongst those who passionately disagree. As of 5:00 p.m., no major incidents had been reported. There have been no arrests. However, discourse and discussion was - at times - loud and heated. That was to be expected. As previously indicated, the goal of law enforcement has been to provide a safe environment for democracy to take place. That goal has been realized for yet another day.

Translating the Five Love Language into the workplace.

DVD Promotional Video

“To receive recognition for one’s achievements is among the most fundamental of human needs”
Sirota, Mischkind, & Meltzer, The Enthusiastic Employee (2005), p. 223.

what i want to do is not always what i do

Calvin and Hobbes Comic Strip, by Bill Watterson retreieved from GoComics.com

Yesterday, we stopped in at the Verizon store to investigate changing our wireless plan and possibly upgrading my phone. One day I would very much like an iPhone. When the iPhone first became a reality, I imagined myself living a life where I actually needed one. People to contact, business to organize, networking... The reality today: it would be fun and I want one. So the Hobbes in me speaks and we add a free phone and $10 for a family plan and leave the Verizon store.

I can relate to so much of Calvin. I imagine running a marathon. I watch world class athletes in competition and tell myself that there is no better challenge, thrill than disciplining one's self past where you think you can. I can do that! I dream about learning another language, packing up the family and traveling the world. I think that hiking / backpacking and camping would be a fantastic vacation...I could go on with my ambitious self talk but eventually it gets a tad bit discouraging.

So, Hobbes, next year when I am eligible, I will get the upgrade. Then, I will run a marathon! ...just before we sell everything and take our trip around the world!

a great way to make a come back...

A 16 ounce cup of Starbucks Grande Caffe Americano contains 225 milligrams of caffeine and only 10 calories! Add a shot of skim milk and I get my calcium too.

For anyone considering giving it a shot, an Americano is essentially espresso coffee plus water. In the Grande size, Starbucks will make this a triple shot espresso!!!

sacrifice your money for a specific purpose...how about a $5 ticket to church

So, this morning I got up to first take the dog out and then get some reading done before everyone gets up. I am thinking about what direction to to take in the way of intentional discipleship - should we watch a Nooma video, read...

I decided to check out a web site that I was curious about...a book that is probably trending now in Christian circles, calling people to deeper faith. I like the premise of the book. It calls us away from the "American Dream", to Jesus. I did not read the book, I admit. I had taken to heart the challenge the author puts forth. I will most likely stick with what I have started:

1. Reading through the Bible - chronologically - with Sam. We are behind a couple days right now, we will catch up.
2. Praying for the world, to love what Jesus loves. Today in Pictures is a fantastic guide for that adventure in prayer.

On this web site is an invitation to a house church. Intense. No time constraint study of the Bible. Not for the faint of heart. Prayer for the world. Prayer for the persecuted church. The description is that of taking our gathering as seriously as those who are meeting illegally and in fear of persecution must. It was touching a part of me that has given up on the organization of "church". The description was pulling me in...giving me hope. And then...

Ticket Information

Tickets for ... will go on sale, Monday, February 7, at 9 a.m. (CST) on this page. There will be a registration button on this page that will take you to our ticketing site.

* Tickets will be $5 and include your study guide for the evening.
* Tickets are non-refundable.
* Tickets are only available through our web site.

Live Simulcast...

I looked to see if the ticket information was going to a cause and could not find anything. I found travel information. They are taking donations for the cause.

Selling tickets to a radical church gathering...can anyone explain it to me?

I know... Covering the cost of materials, paying the pastors, operating the facility... In this case, it just seems counter to the cause. I guess, it's only $5 and internet access that is required. This is possibly an opportunity to live up to one of the challenges of the movement: "to sacrifice your money for a specific purpose".

One of the things that I do enjoy about living in the South is not having to wear the winter coat-hat-gloves-scarf-boots every day - for months. We have had very cold weather, ice and some snow since we have lived in Nashville. These, I thought I had moved away from.

Today, it's all the way it should be. I am not rejoicing in the suffering of my friends in "the North", many of them enjoy the cold. I am simply glad to see that our weather forecast here, is not the same as the forecast there.

Nashville:




Moline, IL:




Madison, WI:

Merry Christmas Everyone.

Where is everyone going....

The word university is derived from the Latin universitas magistrorum et scholarium, roughly meaning "community of teachers and scholars." (wikipedia, a source that my professors do not endorse). I find places that are purposed around learning inspirational. People, all busy learning, teaching, writing, creating... Developing their God given talents - a truly beautiful experience. After a bus ride and a stop for my double shot americano, I found myself walking across the campus of Vanderbilt University. I began to wake to the amazing people I am surrounded by. I wonder where they are all going, if they are enjoying the journey they are on. I am thankful that I am among them today even though I, for one, have no idea where I am really heading.

Social Media Revolution

I knew that I needed and iphone and a kindle...

please use the other door

We have all done it, walk up to what you think is the front door, give it a tug met by resistance and then notice the sign, PLEASE USE OTHER DOOR. Depending on what you went through getting to that door, the feelings vary. No big deal, just reach over and open the other door, right? Unless you are already feeling a sense of frustration over the effort and time it took to find this door and the other door is not in sight. In that case, this experience can be very discouraging. That said, if you want in, you have to find the open door.

I am energized by any opportunity to be at the ball field. All last year I thought that is was just that I love baseball. I love watching my boys play a sport that I began to enjoy so much when I was their ages. This week I got to sit in the stands of the football field and enjoyed that just as much. This led me to another realization, besides being passionate about anything that my boys find fulfilling, I really enjoy feeling like I'm part of a community. This is a place that I am willing to keep searching for an open door to.

It has been almost two years since we moved to Nashville. I am now entering into that place between being a newcomer and not. This is the space where those who have been in a place long enough, begin knowing what is going on, how things work and how to be involved. It is the beginning of knowing what you don't know.

It is often in this place where patterns begin to emerge. You begin seeing the same faces, the same names - the same people in the same places repeatedly and sense "these people may be able to help me". Of course, these same people may also have everything under control and direct you elsewhere. In that case, you have to try another "door". (In my case,I even met some people who were willing to tell me what a "northerner" is. If you meet enough of these people, you can piece together a profile that will be helpful to you when you do finally enter through the open door!)

This is where I stand, staring at the other door...

...at least I can see the entrance, right?

Here are just a few of the tips I have received from my friends (some humor here of course, some adapted from various quotes that have been sent to me):

*Native Southerners do not share the same fascination for Northern accents as Yankees have for the harmonious and charming Southern accent.
*Everyday conversations with the natives will invariably throw you for a full year or so. Groceries are put in a 'sack', people 'carry' their friends to the store, directions consist of 'Up air a ways' or 'down yonder', and "Y'all" covers everybody. "Puny" means ill and "Bless your heart" is not always a blessing.
*Whatever you do, do not launch into an affected Southern drawl until you've earned the right (pronounce 'rat') to have one. Southern hospitality has its natural limits, and inadvertently mocking the natives is one of them.
*Coke is generic for any carbonated beverage. If you say you'd like a "coke", expect a pause awaiting the kind of "coke" you would like.
*Know what a "meat and 3" is.
*The battle cry of any Southerner anywhere is: 'We don't CARE how they do it up North!' Remember that rule to your dying day.
*Just because you can drive on snow and ice does not mean we can. Stay home the two days of the year it snows.
*If there is the prediction of the slightest chance of even the most minuscule accumulation of snow, your presence is required at the local grocery store. It does not matter if you need anything from the store, it is just something you're supposed to do.
*Remember: "Y'all" is singular. "All y'all" is plural. "All y'all's" is plural possessive.
*Get used to hearing, "You ain't from around here, are you?"

Nashville Tennessee Flood 2010

Fun with Guns.

I have unashamedly been called a "Northerner" numerous times since moving to Nashville over a year ago. As much as adjusting to the ethos of the South and the nonspecific blend found in Nashville, I have had to be a learner of what is meant by "Northerner". Just what is is that "they" are saying anyway?

While I don't yet have a full grasp on all that defines these matters of culture, there are some matters of life here that I am coming to grips with.

these are a few of my favorite...

A day with Spencer. We call them Sabbath days. Spencer plans the day as we go. We look for God in the faces of people we see, in the joy we experience as we play and explore. This time we started out at Starbucks.

in pursuit of a good deal...

a few weeks ago, i had a crash course in couponing from a couple of my friends who are passionately involved in this pursuit. i was drawn by amazing stories of free stuff and grocery receipts that boast of well stocked pantries and amazingly low out of pocket expense. today, i ventured out in the rain, secured my front row parking space and waited in line to purchase four sunday papers. two hours later, i have a stack of paper for the recycle bin, a stack of store flyers to be filed for resource and a large stack of coupons. i currently lack the funds to shop, buying me about one week to learn how to maximize my investment.

thus far my new couponing hobby has cost me $7 (that i could easily recoup in progresso soup alone, i might add). time for another "how to" session!

connected to Presence?

:: annual september 1 reflection ::
am i living in truth based on Presence or truth based on information and past experience? my life should be an outflow of the Presence of Christ in my life, is it?

Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.
For I recognize my rebellion;
it haunts me day and night.
Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;
I have done what is evil in your sight.
You will be proved right in what you say,
and your judgment against me is just.
For I was born a sinner—
yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.
But you desire honesty from the womb,
teaching me wisdom even there.

Purify me from my sins,and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Oh, give me back my joy again;
you have broken me—
now let me rejoice.
Don’t keep looking at my sins.
Remove the stain of my guilt.
Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.
Do not banish me from your presence,
and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.
Then I will teach your ways to rebels,
and they will return to you.
Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves;
then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness.
Unseal my lips, O Lord,
that my mouth may praise you.

You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one.
You do not want a burnt offering.
The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit.
You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.
Look with favor on Zion and help her;
rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit—

Fire: Connect to Presence

::on fiding my dream job::

I took one of those "find the perfect career test" today, this is what I got: two results based on who i am being right now and who i want to be. i got about 50 different career choices that could be a fit. helpful. it's all so clear now. it was however, a good diversion making me feel like i was getting closer to living the life i was created for. more productive than farm town maybe?

You would be very happy in a career that utilized your level-headedness, and allowed you to work mainly on your own. You want a career that allows you to be creative, without having to be involved with lots of people. Some careers that would be perfect for you are:

* Artist
* Historian
* Banker
* Novelist
* University Professor
* Photographer
* Vet
* Paralegal
* Graphic Designer
* Online Content Developer
* Webmaster
* Producer
* Managing Director
* Nutritionist
* Advertising
* Nursing

You like working and being alone. You like to avoid attention at all costs. You tend to keep to yourself, and not interact much with the people around you. You enjoy spending time with a few a close friends. You like to listen to others, but don't like sharing much about yourself. You are very quiet and private.

This is not how I feel, only reveals my insecurities to me in the way I fearfully answer the survey questions. It may be perhaps the way I am perceived in my workplace, I'm not really sure. If I say that I like people and enjoy being in charge; if I say that I love being where the action is...will I actually have to then work in a job that requires me to step up? Will I have to stick my neck out again? Will I have to face the rejection and pain of leadership again?

You like to be deeply involved in one or two special projects. You like to be behind the scenes. You are very logical and fair. You feel you should be honest with others and protect their feelings.

You trust your gut instincts. You are easily inspired and trust that inspiration. You are very innovative. You analyse things by looking at the big picture. You are concerned about how what you do affects others. You worry about your actions and the future. You tend to use a lot of metaphors and are very descriptive and colourful in your choice of language.

You are very creative, and get bored easily if you don't get to express yourself. You like to learn new things. You don�t like the same old routine. You like to leave your options open.

So, that's the first outcome of the survey. I took it again.
This time I got a personality that is more of who I want to be. Travel agent? that may be fun.

You would most enjoy a career that allows you to meet new people. You would also be happiest in a career that allows you to be free and flexible, and allows you to be extremely creative. Some careers that would be perfect for you are:

* Stockbroker
* Secretary
* Receptionist
* Director
* Recruitment Consultant
* Politician
* Marketing
* Human Resources Manager
* Religious Minister
* Teacher
* Lawyer
* Advertising
* Consultant
* Financial Adviser
* Financial Planner
* GP
* Physical Therapy
* Occupational Therapy
* Public Relations
* Estate Agent
* Travel Agent
* Restauranteur
* Hotel Manager
* Events Organiser

You are a great leader. You genuinely enjoy being around other people. Your relationships with others are very important to you. You love talking and meeting new people. You are very enthusiastic about work and about all that you do and have in your life. You love being the focus of attention. You enjoy a fast pace. You are very socially oriented. Therefore, you are much happier being with others than you are alone. You crave interaction with others.

You are very spontaneous and often act before you think. You are always quick to answer when you are asked a question, even if you aren't sure of the answer. It is easier for you to improvise as you go along. You enjoy thinking out loud, and are most creative when brainstorming with friends or colleagues. You enjoy being involved in many activities.

You are very easy to read, and often wear your heart on your sleeve. You are never afraid to tell people what you think. You are very empathetic and genuine. You can sometimes be seen as over-emotional or too involved by others. But that is only because you tend to get so involved in the things you do that they become personal. You want to be adored, loved and appreciated. You like to please others and to make sure people are happy.

You trust your gut instincts. You are easily inspired and trust that inspiration. You are very innovative. You analyse things by looking at the big picture. You are concerned about how what you do affects others. You worry about your actions and the future. You tend to use a lot of metaphors and are very descriptive and colourful in your choice of language.

You are very creative, and get bored easily if you don't get to express yourself. You like to learn new things. You don't like the same old routine. You like to leave your options open.

take the quiz: iVillage

Exile Island

For years I have been a student of the gifts given to us by God to fulfill our mission in reconciliation. Working together in different ways towards a common aim, Paul compared us to a human body. It consists of many parts but each part is ordered to the well-being of the whole. That should be a picture of the Christian community. We are all equal in dignity - Jew or Greek, slave or citizen, man or woman, cleric or lay - but different in calling and manner of service.

On this feast of Pentecost, as we celebrate the formation and the mission of the whole Christian community, I also need to reflect on the particular role that God has for me, to reflect on the particular contribution that I can make to the corporate mission of the Church (and of the particular group with which I am involved, whatever that is to look like).

Missionaries on a foreign mission field find themselves pioneering new works, forging new paths, carrying on a work in what must feel at times like isolation. One night while we were watching Survivor, I began thinking how similar the experience on Exile Island is to the experience I am having with the Christian community. The community is still there, back at camp doing the things you do back at camp. I am still part of the community, just not in proximity. There are times I feel like I live in some kind of exile. That is not new, I am not the first or only Christ follower who has experienced this. Some who have gone before us have been literally exiled. It is how we use this time, right?

Today, because of what a friend of mine is going through being separated from her family at a time when she most needs to be with them, I am again considering the power of proximity, or the lack of. My friend is at work right now, surrounded by people who have no idea what she is going through. She is a child of God saying goodbye to a loved one. I prayed that she would know the "Peace be with you" that transcends proximity and as I prayed, I knew that it was possible. A mystery to be sure.

Ultimately the mission of the Church is to bring people to God. It is not primarily to make converts to Christianity or to build up the Church but to work with God in building the Kingdom. The Kingdom realized is the whole world acknowledging the lordship of God our Creator and people directing their lives to be one with him.

In exile, this may look different than it has before. So, what's it gonna be...this life on the Island.