yes!

[AC] Promo 2011 from Advent Conspiracy on Vimeo.

i need some encouragement.  i forgot what "end of semesters" are like.

Basically, it's kind of gone like this.

i hate politics

I just don't understand what sort of example it sets when politicians get on television and say horrible things about one another.

you know what message i think it sends? (especially to children if they're watching?)

"be rude to people who are different than you.  it's the best way to solve problems."

snow boots

so apparently the right clothing DOES make a difference in cold weather.

who knew?

(we just went on a walk thru the neighborhood with the puppies. in 4 inches of snow.)
(it's still snowing.)

Daddy

This picture reminds me of the basketball camp you created for me with Pistol Pete when I was in Jr. High (or middle school?)  I didn't want to go to a real camp, but you saw potential in me and had me watch videos and do drills and practices for a week one summer.  I think at the time it paid off, but unfortunately I didn't stick with it and milk $50 more out of you for being able to jump and touch the basketball rim. 

So not just with basketball, but you've always been my coach.  A constant encourager and person who sees great potential in me, my sisters, my mom, and any other person in relationship with you.

I love this picture, too.  You have a big family of girls! (Which will probably swing to a man-dominated family soon!)  I can't think of a better man to be stuck in the middle of a bunch of women and love and protect and support all of us (and sometimes make fun of our soap-operas and girly food.)

I'm so thankful for you, Daddy.  I really hope this is one of the best years of your life.  I pray God will give you fulfillment and joy and a few more trips up to Minnesota :)

And hey.  I love watching you with Caleb.  And I can't wait for Charlie and I to have kids so they can meet and love their Papa.

Happy birthday, Dad!  Wish we could be there to celebrate you!

Jericho

I've marched around Jericho 12 times.
I've thought I'd seen it start to fall
       to crumble.
       the rumble of ancient strongholds
                 starting to die.

I've marched around 12 times
   each time, the thought it would
      be my last.
Each begins
      victorious!
  Then tedious
      Then discouraging
          Then the realization


                    that I


can never make it fall.

I start the circle again.
what seems a cruel reminder
that the walls still remain.
   that the fortress still stands.
      that I am foolish for even trying.

I can't make it fall
But I can continue to march.
    The Ark of the Covenant
       carrying me along
Reminding me where the
     real work
       is being done.

I'm unsure when it will fall.
       or how.
          or how many more circles it will take.

But I'm thankful He lets me
   walk one more.
It means my journey isn't over.
I march in silence
  until the day He tells me to shout.

On that day, I'll shout.
And the walls will crumble.

Joshua 5:13-6:27

well said