Yes...I put a question mark there...because when I've talked to certain people about this man, they find it laughable that someone with such intelligence and eloquence is a professional wrestler. My response is that when your most marketable quality is that you're nearly seven feet tall, scary looking, and eloquent...it's an amazingly profitable business.
Anywho, Glen Jacobs, known to the Men of Oship (read:Professional Wrestling Superfans) as Kane has written one of the most intelligent pieces I've read on labor relations, especially for people who are independent contractors and business owners.
http://www.lewrockwell.com/jacobs/jacobs10.1.html
Everyone should read it...and if you're interested in owning your own business, or checking out mine, please go to my website...I highly recommend looking up the Ribbon Gift Incentive program
http://www.amway.com/yenchko
Phillies Braves close out the season starting tomorrow...and then Roy, Roy, and Cole get to stomp out another National League Pennant...and hopefully World Series.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Might be eating my words...
So Cole Hamels got spanked by the Mets...just like he has most of this year...combined with limited production from the offense, and 2 more runs given up in the 9th, and we have a loss...and now my theory looks bogus, yes?
No.
One loss since the All-star break does not mean Cole Hamels is not dominant. It means he had a bad game...really, one bad inning. He shuts down the fourth, different ball game. Now, we'll see if he has what it takes to be a dominant pitcher...will he bounce back? I say yes.
Alright, now into cigars...Yesterday, I attended my first Blowin' Smoke Podcasst in a while...and it was a rare topic-based show. Anyone looking to smoke cigars on a limited budget because of this economy or now living on a fixed income should listen to this show. Jimmy Cohen of Klafters/Smoker Friendly and Jeff from Famous Cigars give their expert advice on the subjects...and since Jimmy was the one who assisted me with my first "official" cigar purchase, trust me when I say that the GURU knows his stuff.
Warning: There are F-bombs dropped on the show...if this offends you...cry...right now...there ya go.
It's so much fun watching my daughter attack cardboard boxes and bag-straps like they stole her bottle...so much fun.
Later...much.
No.
One loss since the All-star break does not mean Cole Hamels is not dominant. It means he had a bad game...really, one bad inning. He shuts down the fourth, different ball game. Now, we'll see if he has what it takes to be a dominant pitcher...will he bounce back? I say yes.
Alright, now into cigars...Yesterday, I attended my first Blowin' Smoke Podcasst in a while...and it was a rare topic-based show. Anyone looking to smoke cigars on a limited budget because of this economy or now living on a fixed income should listen to this show. Jimmy Cohen of Klafters/Smoker Friendly and Jeff from Famous Cigars give their expert advice on the subjects...and since Jimmy was the one who assisted me with my first "official" cigar purchase, trust me when I say that the GURU knows his stuff.
Warning: There are F-bombs dropped on the show...if this offends you...cry...right now...there ya go.
It's so much fun watching my daughter attack cardboard boxes and bag-straps like they stole her bottle...so much fun.
Later...much.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Limited Production and Increased Production
So, while I daughter was taking a nap, I took part in a Bucanero Crew cigar...and I started to reminisce...I started to wish there was a Brick & Mortar that sold Bucanero cigars around here. Now, I found this box in the bottom of Penn-Ohio Cigars, and now and then, I'll purchase one. George, the proprietor, says they don't sell...and I can understand that. There are a lot of big boys in the business, and very few people will step out of their comfort zone to buy one...but hey, if you see any cigar made by Bucanero...pick it up. I definitely reccomend the "Salsa."
Anywho, my mind left that arena and moved to baseball. The Playoffs are coming up, and my Philadelphia Phillies are kicking ass and taking names...and I look back on earlier in the season, when they were shut out for a four-game series against the New York Mets...and couldn't hit...and something clicked with me as to why.
A team always plays to the skill-level and enthusiasm-level of it's leader...not it's best player, but the person who is perceived by the locker room to be in charge, after the coach. For the longest time, that was Bobby, "I'm Afraid of the Wall," Abreu...but when he was let go, it became a race between Jimmy "Streak" Rollins and Chase Utley...and even during their World Series year...it seemed that Utley was leaning to Rollins...
...however, two possibilities have sprung into my mind...and I'd like some feedback on this. Either...
1. Jimmy Rollins' injury + Placido Polanco + Wilson Valdez being a great defensive replacement for Rollins = Chase Utley and Polanco overruling Rollins.
or
2. Cole Hamels is actually the locker-room leader of that team.
I'm leaning towards 2...because Cole Hamels, since the All-Star Break, has been one of the top three pitchers in the Major Leagues...and since he's stepped it up, cut his hair a bit, and gone from hippie-surfer Cole back to World Series Winner Cole...the team has started hitting...and maybe that's because he would have lost his #2 pitcher spot to Oswalt if he didn't...but he's become an ace again...and I truly think that some of the guys, especially Ruiz, Werth, Victorino, and even Utley and Howard truly feed off of Cole Hamels.
I might be totally insane believing this...but when Cole is dominant, the Phillies Rotation is better, their Bullpen gets more rest for three starts instead of only two or even 1.5 starts...and the team wins.
Thoughts? Comments? Follow me and I'll listen.
Anywho, my mind left that arena and moved to baseball. The Playoffs are coming up, and my Philadelphia Phillies are kicking ass and taking names...and I look back on earlier in the season, when they were shut out for a four-game series against the New York Mets...and couldn't hit...and something clicked with me as to why.
A team always plays to the skill-level and enthusiasm-level of it's leader...not it's best player, but the person who is perceived by the locker room to be in charge, after the coach. For the longest time, that was Bobby, "I'm Afraid of the Wall," Abreu...but when he was let go, it became a race between Jimmy "Streak" Rollins and Chase Utley...and even during their World Series year...it seemed that Utley was leaning to Rollins...
...however, two possibilities have sprung into my mind...and I'd like some feedback on this. Either...
1. Jimmy Rollins' injury + Placido Polanco + Wilson Valdez being a great defensive replacement for Rollins = Chase Utley and Polanco overruling Rollins.
or
2. Cole Hamels is actually the locker-room leader of that team.
I'm leaning towards 2...because Cole Hamels, since the All-Star Break, has been one of the top three pitchers in the Major Leagues...and since he's stepped it up, cut his hair a bit, and gone from hippie-surfer Cole back to World Series Winner Cole...the team has started hitting...and maybe that's because he would have lost his #2 pitcher spot to Oswalt if he didn't...but he's become an ace again...and I truly think that some of the guys, especially Ruiz, Werth, Victorino, and even Utley and Howard truly feed off of Cole Hamels.
I might be totally insane believing this...but when Cole is dominant, the Phillies Rotation is better, their Bullpen gets more rest for three starts instead of only two or even 1.5 starts...and the team wins.
Thoughts? Comments? Follow me and I'll listen.
Friday, May 28, 2010
An interesting thought...
Alright, so I haven't been faithful with blogging as I have with reading...which is not what I was hoping for...but today I was reading Matthew Ch. 10, and decided to delve deeper into it...and realized some interesting things.
First, Bug asked me if Jesus gave the powers to heal and drive out demons and perform miracles to Judas Iscariot. The answer, of course, is yes. Judas didn't join Jesus as a spy, but as a brother; he wasn't planning on betraying him to the Religious leaders from the get-go. No, sin overtook him over time; he may have been skimming off the top of Jesus' funds, and he may have thought that he was getting into the inner circle of the new king for his own benefit, but he was still a student of the master. He loved Jesus and hung on his words for a while, most likely. If that wasn't the case, his betrayal would not be so heinous. Now, it's true that, most likely, from the time Jesus called him, Jesus knew Judas would betray him over...but I doubt Judas did.
Second, when Jesus gives the authority to the Twelve, he doesn't give them, or us, a rosy picture of what's going to happen. He makes it very clear that being a disciple of Christ is going to piss off the people around you. He even says, "...and you will be hated by all for my name's sake." This is after he talks about families betraying one another, hating one another, and warring against one another. He made it clear that to be part of the family of Christ, one would often have to forsake his own family.
Third, If one was going to be a disciple of Christ, he would have to learn to behave impeccably. Jesus called his disciples to be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. Why? Doesn't grace cover all sins? Of course. The disciples were not going to be saved by Righteous acts. They were called to make other disciples, and so are we. There are a great number of enemies to the message of Christ, who would blaspheme God and defame his son. If we look like fools, look like the wicked, and give the enemies ammunition with which to slander us and legitimize their persecution of Christ, are we being good messengers? Who will come? True, the Lord uses the foolish things of the World to shame the wise...but if we act according to the wisdom of the world, then we are disobedient...and I know I've been disobedient many times. Lord, forgive me.
Well, that's all for now...if you're interested in more, look up, "Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible." It's in the public domain...and check out Matthew Ch. 10. Or you can read the commentaries on the chapter at www.biblegateway.com.
Later.
First, Bug asked me if Jesus gave the powers to heal and drive out demons and perform miracles to Judas Iscariot. The answer, of course, is yes. Judas didn't join Jesus as a spy, but as a brother; he wasn't planning on betraying him to the Religious leaders from the get-go. No, sin overtook him over time; he may have been skimming off the top of Jesus' funds, and he may have thought that he was getting into the inner circle of the new king for his own benefit, but he was still a student of the master. He loved Jesus and hung on his words for a while, most likely. If that wasn't the case, his betrayal would not be so heinous. Now, it's true that, most likely, from the time Jesus called him, Jesus knew Judas would betray him over...but I doubt Judas did.
Second, when Jesus gives the authority to the Twelve, he doesn't give them, or us, a rosy picture of what's going to happen. He makes it very clear that being a disciple of Christ is going to piss off the people around you. He even says, "...and you will be hated by all for my name's sake." This is after he talks about families betraying one another, hating one another, and warring against one another. He made it clear that to be part of the family of Christ, one would often have to forsake his own family.
Third, If one was going to be a disciple of Christ, he would have to learn to behave impeccably. Jesus called his disciples to be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. Why? Doesn't grace cover all sins? Of course. The disciples were not going to be saved by Righteous acts. They were called to make other disciples, and so are we. There are a great number of enemies to the message of Christ, who would blaspheme God and defame his son. If we look like fools, look like the wicked, and give the enemies ammunition with which to slander us and legitimize their persecution of Christ, are we being good messengers? Who will come? True, the Lord uses the foolish things of the World to shame the wise...but if we act according to the wisdom of the world, then we are disobedient...and I know I've been disobedient many times. Lord, forgive me.
Well, that's all for now...if you're interested in more, look up, "Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible." It's in the public domain...and check out Matthew Ch. 10. Or you can read the commentaries on the chapter at www.biblegateway.com.
Later.
Monday, May 24, 2010
New Idea
So...Bug and I are reading through the four gospels every night. We figure if looking at Jesus is how we're supposed to learn how to be a good husband and a good wife, respectively of course, we might as well dive right in...and, with her blessing, I figured I'd blog about what we read.
The Gospel's are divided by header...so I figured I'd post something I've learned, or that I know to be important, about each header...so without further ado...
The GOSPEL according to Matthew
Overview: Matthew was a Jewish Tax Collector. His basic audience were the Jews, the people who have heard of the coming messiah over and over since they were born. His goal was to show, constantly, how Jesus fulfilled every prophecy concerning the messiah and all righteousness of the law, both spiritual and ritual, proving him to be the long awaited messiah.
Chapter 1: 1-17
This is the genealogy of Jesus, starting with Abraham, the father of the Nation of Israel, proving that, by his father's side, Jesus descended from the Patriarchs, through the Tribe of Judah, through the line of King David, which was not disrupted by the deportation to Babylon.
Odd but Cool (and important) fact: Jesus' blood line was filled with sin. We've got incest (Judah and his daughter, Tamar), Gentile Prostitutes (Rahab from Jericho). and Infidelity and Murder (King David tapping Bathsheba and having her husband killed). We've also got great redemption (Ruth the Moabitess whose husband died and who was redeemed by Boaz)
Chapter 1:18-25
Short version of Jesus' birth. No story of how Mary was met by an angel...only Joseph being told that his wife's pregnancy was of God. Notice that he did not want to shame her, so he wasn't going to tout in the street that she was pregnant. He was going to be kind to her in their "divorce." The first prophecy mentioned in the Gospels is right here: Isaiah 7:14...only getting references...go read them though. Don't take my word for it...that would be stupid.
Chapter 2:1-12
The visit of the Magi is first told here. They go to Jerusalem, the capital of Judea, and ask Herod, the king, where the newborn king is? Sounds logical, right? Ask the current king where the guy who's going to replace him is...really smart, guys. Anywho, instead of being excited, all of Jerusalem was troubled...it troubled them that the Christ was born...the Messiah they were waiting for...and they're troubled...morons. Anywho, they consult the scriptures and find that he was to be born in Bethlehem, the town of David's birth. Herod sends them to find him and come back, under the guise of wanting to worship him. However, God protects his son and, after their great gifts (Gold to crown the king, Frankincense for the priestly duties, and Myrrh to signify his suffering), they split a different way.
Chapter 2:13-15
God gives Joseph another dream, telling him to take his family to Egypt because Herod's looking to destroy Jesus. Here's another prophecy: Hosea 11:1...go read it.
Chapter 2:16-18
Herod goes apeshit, killing all boys two-years-old and younger. He doesn't want to risk losing his power...too bad he's too late...well, too good for us. Anywho, another prophecy fulfilled: Jeremiah 31:15 and Genesis 42 (and Lamentations 5:7)
Chapter 2:19-23
Herod dies, God tells Joseph he can go back. However, Herod's son is reigning in his place, so Joseph moves to the town of Nazareth in Galilee...and that fulfills another prophecy: "He shall be called a Nazarene"...no list of cross reference in Bible Gateway. Maybe my dad will help me out on that one.
Chapter 3:1-12
Jesus' cousin, John aka John the Baptist, had a ministry too...his was to prepare the way for Jesus. I'm sure you've all heard the, "Prepare the way of the Lord," speech. John looked like a nutcase...he lived in the desert, he wore camel fur and ate bugs dipped in honey. However, he knew that repentance and turning from sin was necessary for salvation, claiming the promise of the messiah through the seed of Eve and the people of Israel and the line of David...repent and claim God's promises. Anywho, here's another prophecy: Isaiah 40:3...the voice in the desert.
Cool Fact: We hear a lot about Jesus ripping the Pharisees and Scribes new butt holes because they present a fake righteous front, but inside are unrepentant, believing they earn their way into God's favor by ritual. However, this time, it's John the Baptist...go read how John smacks them up. Also, it's very convicting to anyone who is a Christian and believes that their actions play a part in their righteousness...we're all hypocrites, we who call ourselves Christians. We are weak, only empowered to obey by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when we do good, we try and convince others to do good, or we act in a right way, especially around those that see our sin...we look like hypocrites.
Chapter 3:13-17
Jesus comes to John for a baptism. John says that Jesus should baptize him, because John is unworthy, but Jesus says that John must baptize him so that all righteousness should be fulfilled. This is because priests needed to be sprinkled with water in order to become priests (not immersed, as many would say, but baptized by sprinkling in order to allow their words to represent the people of Israel...so the word baptize in the Biblical sense means, in essence, to transmute, such as when the Israelites were transmuted to Moses so that he would speak for them, and the church is transmuted into Christ, so his sacrifice is good for us...or that's the view of Jay Adams (Author: The Meaning and Mode of Baptism...not a bad booklet...thanks, Dad.)). Anywho, when Jesus was baptized, he "came up out of the water", (some say when John drew him out...others say when he walked out...or still others when God lifted him above the water into floaty-airy-man status). The people who were there saw the Holy Spirit descend on Christ like a dove and hear God's voice saying, "This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased." That's a ringing endorsement of who Jesus' is by God.
Now, I'm going to stop here for now, and hopefully re-read chapter 4 and the start of Chapter 5 with Bug tonight...but if not, I'll blog about them and the chapters we read tomorrow.
Now onto some not-so-serious talk: The Phillies dropped a game to the Pirates and 2 to the Red Sox...including two losses from Roy Halliday. Now, I can't expect Doc to be perfect, but something's up...the Phillies aren't giving him Run Support...and this last outing was just...icky...yes, I said icky. It was sad indeed. C'mon, boys...you're going to Citi Field to face the Metrosexuals...win this series...be the team you are.
On a side note...the Rays are 20 games over .500...wow.
The Gospel's are divided by header...so I figured I'd post something I've learned, or that I know to be important, about each header...so without further ado...
The GOSPEL according to Matthew
Overview: Matthew was a Jewish Tax Collector. His basic audience were the Jews, the people who have heard of the coming messiah over and over since they were born. His goal was to show, constantly, how Jesus fulfilled every prophecy concerning the messiah and all righteousness of the law, both spiritual and ritual, proving him to be the long awaited messiah.
Chapter 1: 1-17
This is the genealogy of Jesus, starting with Abraham, the father of the Nation of Israel, proving that, by his father's side, Jesus descended from the Patriarchs, through the Tribe of Judah, through the line of King David, which was not disrupted by the deportation to Babylon.
Odd but Cool (and important) fact: Jesus' blood line was filled with sin. We've got incest (Judah and his daughter, Tamar), Gentile Prostitutes (Rahab from Jericho). and Infidelity and Murder (King David tapping Bathsheba and having her husband killed). We've also got great redemption (Ruth the Moabitess whose husband died and who was redeemed by Boaz)
Chapter 1:18-25
Short version of Jesus' birth. No story of how Mary was met by an angel...only Joseph being told that his wife's pregnancy was of God. Notice that he did not want to shame her, so he wasn't going to tout in the street that she was pregnant. He was going to be kind to her in their "divorce." The first prophecy mentioned in the Gospels is right here: Isaiah 7:14...only getting references...go read them though. Don't take my word for it...that would be stupid.
Chapter 2:1-12
The visit of the Magi is first told here. They go to Jerusalem, the capital of Judea, and ask Herod, the king, where the newborn king is? Sounds logical, right? Ask the current king where the guy who's going to replace him is...really smart, guys. Anywho, instead of being excited, all of Jerusalem was troubled...it troubled them that the Christ was born...the Messiah they were waiting for...and they're troubled...morons. Anywho, they consult the scriptures and find that he was to be born in Bethlehem, the town of David's birth. Herod sends them to find him and come back, under the guise of wanting to worship him. However, God protects his son and, after their great gifts (Gold to crown the king, Frankincense for the priestly duties, and Myrrh to signify his suffering), they split a different way.
Chapter 2:13-15
God gives Joseph another dream, telling him to take his family to Egypt because Herod's looking to destroy Jesus. Here's another prophecy: Hosea 11:1...go read it.
Chapter 2:16-18
Herod goes apeshit, killing all boys two-years-old and younger. He doesn't want to risk losing his power...too bad he's too late...well, too good for us. Anywho, another prophecy fulfilled: Jeremiah 31:15 and Genesis 42 (and Lamentations 5:7)
Chapter 2:19-23
Herod dies, God tells Joseph he can go back. However, Herod's son is reigning in his place, so Joseph moves to the town of Nazareth in Galilee...and that fulfills another prophecy: "He shall be called a Nazarene"...no list of cross reference in Bible Gateway. Maybe my dad will help me out on that one.
Chapter 3:1-12
Jesus' cousin, John aka John the Baptist, had a ministry too...his was to prepare the way for Jesus. I'm sure you've all heard the, "Prepare the way of the Lord," speech. John looked like a nutcase...he lived in the desert, he wore camel fur and ate bugs dipped in honey. However, he knew that repentance and turning from sin was necessary for salvation, claiming the promise of the messiah through the seed of Eve and the people of Israel and the line of David...repent and claim God's promises. Anywho, here's another prophecy: Isaiah 40:3...the voice in the desert.
Cool Fact: We hear a lot about Jesus ripping the Pharisees and Scribes new butt holes because they present a fake righteous front, but inside are unrepentant, believing they earn their way into God's favor by ritual. However, this time, it's John the Baptist...go read how John smacks them up. Also, it's very convicting to anyone who is a Christian and believes that their actions play a part in their righteousness...we're all hypocrites, we who call ourselves Christians. We are weak, only empowered to obey by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when we do good, we try and convince others to do good, or we act in a right way, especially around those that see our sin...we look like hypocrites.
Chapter 3:13-17
Jesus comes to John for a baptism. John says that Jesus should baptize him, because John is unworthy, but Jesus says that John must baptize him so that all righteousness should be fulfilled. This is because priests needed to be sprinkled with water in order to become priests (not immersed, as many would say, but baptized by sprinkling in order to allow their words to represent the people of Israel...so the word baptize in the Biblical sense means, in essence, to transmute, such as when the Israelites were transmuted to Moses so that he would speak for them, and the church is transmuted into Christ, so his sacrifice is good for us...or that's the view of Jay Adams (Author: The Meaning and Mode of Baptism...not a bad booklet...thanks, Dad.)). Anywho, when Jesus was baptized, he "came up out of the water", (some say when John drew him out...others say when he walked out...or still others when God lifted him above the water into floaty-airy-man status). The people who were there saw the Holy Spirit descend on Christ like a dove and hear God's voice saying, "This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased." That's a ringing endorsement of who Jesus' is by God.
Now, I'm going to stop here for now, and hopefully re-read chapter 4 and the start of Chapter 5 with Bug tonight...but if not, I'll blog about them and the chapters we read tomorrow.
Now onto some not-so-serious talk: The Phillies dropped a game to the Pirates and 2 to the Red Sox...including two losses from Roy Halliday. Now, I can't expect Doc to be perfect, but something's up...the Phillies aren't giving him Run Support...and this last outing was just...icky...yes, I said icky. It was sad indeed. C'mon, boys...you're going to Citi Field to face the Metrosexuals...win this series...be the team you are.
On a side note...the Rays are 20 games over .500...wow.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Wrestling Night...
Ok...I DVRed both TNA and WWE Wrestling...and it's so sad to see TNA waste the talents of Nigel "Desmond Wolfe" McGuinness. I liked the Monster's Ball match with AJ and Abyss...and the triple-threat tag match wasn't too bad, even though the finish was Fat Fonzie and Nash coming in...and then Eric Young siding with them. Also, the knockouts match. Ink Inc. was pretty cool...but they need a mouthpiece...maybe it'll be Raven; that'd be cool, especially if they let Raven win the TNA Championship...or at least the Global Championship...I don't know. TNA could be a true meritocracy, as...well, it was either Justin LaBarr or Michael Madden who said it...but you all don't care.
I'm wondering if WWE will ever give Bryan Danielson...aka Daniel Bryan a victory...will they ever let him be a star. WWE took Chris Jericho and utilized him to become one of their top five greatest assets of the "aught era" (00-09). I hope Bryan can be half as successful...he's not as good on the mic as Jericho, but neither was Benoit. Granted, He's not as cut as Benoit...but his aggression is similar.
Anywho, the Phillies Lost 6-3 to the cardinals... Sad face.
More info on Amway later...gotta get my computer actually...charging...so lame...
I love you, Bug!
I'm wondering if WWE will ever give Bryan Danielson...aka Daniel Bryan a victory...will they ever let him be a star. WWE took Chris Jericho and utilized him to become one of their top five greatest assets of the "aught era" (00-09). I hope Bryan can be half as successful...he's not as good on the mic as Jericho, but neither was Benoit. Granted, He's not as cut as Benoit...but his aggression is similar.
Anywho, the Phillies Lost 6-3 to the cardinals... Sad face.
More info on Amway later...gotta get my computer actually...charging...so lame...
I love you, Bug!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Spiritually Refreshing
Wowzer...so friday night, my wife and I decide that she's going to Iowa for a funeral. We had some extra money, and we decided she would go. It was an easy sacrifice to make. After all, she is a wonderful woman, who I admire. I appreciate how much she speaks highly of me, both to my face and to others. She uses her words to lift me up, not to tear me down. She is a great cleaner, in spite of my slovenliness. So, we drove out to Iowa, all three of us, dropping me off at Moline Airport, and I flew back.
However, this morning, I slept through my alarm and two phone calls from my bug, and did not go to church. This worried her, since I am a sinner in need of almost constant spiritual refreshment. I wanted to go to Night Service, but I worked through. Therefore, I listened to my father's past two sermons, both of which are on marriage.
I encourage everyone who reads this to go to www.northshorecommunitychurch.com and click on the sermons tab. I've never had the best relationship with my father, but we've definitely rebuilt it in recent years. However, I will never denounce him as a preacher. God has given him an amazing gift, and God uses his words to display his gospel and teach Christians how to apply it.
The sermons were on Ephesians 5: 22-33; the passages are on marriage. I encourage couples to listen to them, first separately, and then together. I hope to apply these two sermons to my own marriage...probably listen to them both at least once a month...because they're so insightful. I plan to pray with my wife, daily, to have family devotions with her, and "pump up the tire," as he said. I want the pressure in the, "tire," of our marriage not to be constantly refilled, because there is a lot that's letting the tire go flat.
Thank you, dad.
Gonna watch the rest of the Phillies game now...rubber match between Phillies and Mets...set the DVR to record it so I can fast-forward through commercials...damn, I'm becoming my dad.
However, this morning, I slept through my alarm and two phone calls from my bug, and did not go to church. This worried her, since I am a sinner in need of almost constant spiritual refreshment. I wanted to go to Night Service, but I worked through. Therefore, I listened to my father's past two sermons, both of which are on marriage.
I encourage everyone who reads this to go to www.northshorecommunitychurch.com and click on the sermons tab. I've never had the best relationship with my father, but we've definitely rebuilt it in recent years. However, I will never denounce him as a preacher. God has given him an amazing gift, and God uses his words to display his gospel and teach Christians how to apply it.
The sermons were on Ephesians 5: 22-33; the passages are on marriage. I encourage couples to listen to them, first separately, and then together. I hope to apply these two sermons to my own marriage...probably listen to them both at least once a month...because they're so insightful. I plan to pray with my wife, daily, to have family devotions with her, and "pump up the tire," as he said. I want the pressure in the, "tire," of our marriage not to be constantly refilled, because there is a lot that's letting the tire go flat.
Thank you, dad.
Gonna watch the rest of the Phillies game now...rubber match between Phillies and Mets...set the DVR to record it so I can fast-forward through commercials...damn, I'm becoming my dad.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Lovely night...
First and foremost, I want to thank Dr. Hugo for the lovely foreign lady he sent me with my wife...and, for all of you idiots out there, I mean a cigar. Thank you, Dr. Hugo.
I was met tonight with a little panda who was watching the light show on the TV, which happens when you play a CD on the X-Box 360. There was no sound, however...because apparently the baby is sick of noise. That's fine...until she starts her high-pitched pain-scream that seems to indicate tiredness. I understand fighting sleep; I've done it my entire life...but seriously, when it starts to hurt, I fall asleep. When it starts to hurt her...she screams. I took her on a car ride, which normally settles her down, and she screamed even more...it was like...wowzer. Anywho, she's asleep for now...fell asleep on mama's shoulder...wouldn't do it for daddy this time. She's laying on the "Couch of Awesomeness."
I miss smoking cigars with the other cretins. Seriously, you guys have to open up your saturdays...or I need a better job. Anyone know of a job opening for me?
I love my bug. She has been so amazing in the face of such struggle her entire life. My dream...one of my biggest dreams...is to make it so she doesn't have to struggle financially anymore...ever...or worry about her children doing the same. That's why I'm in my business...
...check it out...and there's more after that...more to tell...it's getting better all the time.
Sports-wise...O-V-Rated is gone thanks to a stellar performance by the Montreal Canadians. Good for you, gentlemen...and thank you for silencing that second-rate human being.
Also, the Phillies won a wild one, finishing a disappointing road trip. I hope that my blog had something to do with it...but I doubt it...anywho, we go face the New York Metrosexuals at home tomorrow...let's take back first, and let my papa give Mr. Mikey another broom, huh? Go Phills.
I was met tonight with a little panda who was watching the light show on the TV, which happens when you play a CD on the X-Box 360. There was no sound, however...because apparently the baby is sick of noise. That's fine...until she starts her high-pitched pain-scream that seems to indicate tiredness. I understand fighting sleep; I've done it my entire life...but seriously, when it starts to hurt, I fall asleep. When it starts to hurt her...she screams. I took her on a car ride, which normally settles her down, and she screamed even more...it was like...wowzer. Anywho, she's asleep for now...fell asleep on mama's shoulder...wouldn't do it for daddy this time. She's laying on the "Couch of Awesomeness."
I miss smoking cigars with the other cretins. Seriously, you guys have to open up your saturdays...or I need a better job. Anyone know of a job opening for me?
I love my bug. She has been so amazing in the face of such struggle her entire life. My dream...one of my biggest dreams...is to make it so she doesn't have to struggle financially anymore...ever...or worry about her children doing the same. That's why I'm in my business...
...check it out...and there's more after that...more to tell...it's getting better all the time.
Sports-wise...O-V-Rated is gone thanks to a stellar performance by the Montreal Canadians. Good for you, gentlemen...and thank you for silencing that second-rate human being.
Also, the Phillies won a wild one, finishing a disappointing road trip. I hope that my blog had something to do with it...but I doubt it...anywho, we go face the New York Metrosexuals at home tomorrow...let's take back first, and let my papa give Mr. Mikey another broom, huh? Go Phills.
Light a fire?
Will this finally light a fire underneath my baseball team?
Roy and Jamie couldn't handle the Giants...the San Francisco Giants...and the offense couldn't score even two-thirds what the other team scored. From top-to-bottom, this team has offense...
...is losing Rollins that big of a deal? Or was it Rollins and Castro together? Is it the loss of Happy Pete? Have we lost our desire to step it up? Have we gotten complacent? Jimmy...Charlie...Chase...SOMEONE light a fire under the asses of your team...hell, even you, $25 Million-a-year man...do it...do it now.
While my bug and the little panda were gone, I indulged in some lovely Rocky Patel cigars. Edge Battalion Maduro, 1961, and two 1990's...and also enjoyed a TKO...don't really have time to get into them...but they were all phenomenal.
Also met a chill dude, who will be referred to here simply as B. He's pretty awesome. Also, my buddy KC has returned to prominence in my life...so he'll be KC. Thank you.
Roy and Jamie couldn't handle the Giants...the San Francisco Giants...and the offense couldn't score even two-thirds what the other team scored. From top-to-bottom, this team has offense...
...is losing Rollins that big of a deal? Or was it Rollins and Castro together? Is it the loss of Happy Pete? Have we lost our desire to step it up? Have we gotten complacent? Jimmy...Charlie...Chase...SOMEONE light a fire under the asses of your team...hell, even you, $25 Million-a-year man...do it...do it now.
While my bug and the little panda were gone, I indulged in some lovely Rocky Patel cigars. Edge Battalion Maduro, 1961, and two 1990's...and also enjoyed a TKO...don't really have time to get into them...but they were all phenomenal.
Also met a chill dude, who will be referred to here simply as B. He's pretty awesome. Also, my buddy KC has returned to prominence in my life...so he'll be KC. Thank you.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Werth and Worth
Jason Werth has been stunning the last two games for the Phillies. He leads the NL in doubles, but this weekend, has hit two homers (Saturday) and hustled an outfielder's error in for a four-bagger (Friday). I'm glad Figueroa was able to pull out a solid start...and Cole looked good until he gave up four homers.
This is how the Phillies seem to do it...hopefully it'll be the same, when they find another hot-streak around the 40 game mark...and then around the 90 game mark...and then to finish the season. Maybe I'm thinking wrong, but that's how I think they'll so it.
I have been alone in my apartment the last three nights...tonight will be my last night sleeping alone. I don't miss the little panda crying...I do miss my Bug in bed with me, and knowing the Little panda's there when I wake up. I do like to watch both of them sleep sometimes...it's beautiful.
God Bless
This is how the Phillies seem to do it...hopefully it'll be the same, when they find another hot-streak around the 40 game mark...and then around the 90 game mark...and then to finish the season. Maybe I'm thinking wrong, but that's how I think they'll so it.
I have been alone in my apartment the last three nights...tonight will be my last night sleeping alone. I don't miss the little panda crying...I do miss my Bug in bed with me, and knowing the Little panda's there when I wake up. I do like to watch both of them sleep sometimes...it's beautiful.
God Bless
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Evenings out...
As much as I hate to say it, Sunday thru thrusday, my evenings are out. I love me some evening time, but I am now an Unload Associate for Lowe's, and the Trucks are in 4-10 at night. Thus, I will be working then. Hopefully we'll be able to work around that.
On a side note, I love me my Bug...and my little Panda...and now, my boys KC and Big-B.
Go Phillies...Doc Rocks...wow...and the offense is on tonight.
On a side note, I love me my Bug...and my little Panda...and now, my boys KC and Big-B.
Go Phillies...Doc Rocks...wow...and the offense is on tonight.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Another 3:30 am rambling...
Well...I'm up...so I'm blogging.
Cole Hamels pitched more than six innings, giving up fewer than three runs, in his last start...but the Phillies were shut out by the Marlins. Jamie Moyer had a rocky first, giving up five, before settling down...and normally the Phillies can overcome that...but alas, Jason Werth's homer was the only run. What happened? The whole team slumps at one time?
I'm calling on the Team Leaders, especially the injured team leader, Jimmy Rollins, to slap this team into shape. You're better than wasting a good start by a pitcher, boys. Doing so is disgusterous.
I'm going to be alone in this apartment from Wednesday to Saturday...not going to miss the crying at night, but I am going to miss my wife and daughter. They are joys to me.
On the plus side, I'll be able to enjoy a couple of cigars this week...I'll update you on that.
Cole Hamels pitched more than six innings, giving up fewer than three runs, in his last start...but the Phillies were shut out by the Marlins. Jamie Moyer had a rocky first, giving up five, before settling down...and normally the Phillies can overcome that...but alas, Jason Werth's homer was the only run. What happened? The whole team slumps at one time?
I'm calling on the Team Leaders, especially the injured team leader, Jimmy Rollins, to slap this team into shape. You're better than wasting a good start by a pitcher, boys. Doing so is disgusterous.
I'm going to be alone in this apartment from Wednesday to Saturday...not going to miss the crying at night, but I am going to miss my wife and daughter. They are joys to me.
On the plus side, I'll be able to enjoy a couple of cigars this week...I'll update you on that.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
I was just informed...
I was just informed that I never mentioned the date of the event at which I was running my booth. It's May 6, 2010. Hope to see you all there!
Can't effing sleep
My mind is tired...my body is tired...my little panda has been keeping me up since 1 am...on and off anywho. Before that, she slept...which was wonderful for Bug and myself...but now, I cannot sleep.
Thus I'm going to make some fun comments.
I could really go for a Rocky Patel 1990 right about now...or a CAO MX2.
I'm watching Lord of War right now...and it's funny watching Nick Cage talk about capitalism as an Arms Dealer...but maybe that's because I'm uber tired.
If Cole Hamels has a lousy start today...trade him...that is all.
Thus I'm going to make some fun comments.
I could really go for a Rocky Patel 1990 right about now...or a CAO MX2.
I'm watching Lord of War right now...and it's funny watching Nick Cage talk about capitalism as an Arms Dealer...but maybe that's because I'm uber tired.
If Cole Hamels has a lousy start today...trade him...that is all.
An event and some questions?
Alright, today, I finalized the set-up for my first booth for my business. It's going to be stationed at Penn Ohio Cigars in Sharon, PA. There'll be a little arm-wrestling tournament going on, so if you want to enter, or just see some intimidating people try to psych out one another like Stallone...and enjoy some tasty, cold beverages...stop on by. It's gonna be a big block-party type event, all to celebrate the arrival of Rocky Patel, one of the big names in cigars. His stuff is amazing and, hopefully, the entire cigar smoking world of Western PA, Eastern Ohio, and Western NY...as well as others hopefully...wlll be converging on Sharon. Would love to see you all there. Come support the booth, the business, and your favorite little cigar cretin.
Now...some questions as I sit here at 3:30 in the morning
Can ANY Phillies Pitcher give us 6+ innings and fewer than three runs in a game this season...well, besides Doc Halladay? The answer, of course, is yes...and his name is Joe Blanton. Unfortunately, he's injured...so unless Cole or Happ return to their good-season form...not for a while.
Will my daughter ever sleep through the night again? OF course she will...but apparently I'm only halfway through the "right-of-passage" into parenthood. Grr.
Can we really dance if we want to? Can we leave my friends behind? According to the Wright brothers (Collier and Andrew, not the flying ones) I can...but that was back at Collier's wedding...so iunno.
Night
Now...some questions as I sit here at 3:30 in the morning
Can ANY Phillies Pitcher give us 6+ innings and fewer than three runs in a game this season...well, besides Doc Halladay? The answer, of course, is yes...and his name is Joe Blanton. Unfortunately, he's injured...so unless Cole or Happ return to their good-season form...not for a while.
Will my daughter ever sleep through the night again? OF course she will...but apparently I'm only halfway through the "right-of-passage" into parenthood. Grr.
Can we really dance if we want to? Can we leave my friends behind? According to the Wright brothers (Collier and Andrew, not the flying ones) I can...but that was back at Collier's wedding...so iunno.
Night
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Who's afraid of the big, bad calf-strain?
Alright, for those of you who haven't figured it out yet, I love baseball. I'm not one of those guys who sits and fills out a scorecard every game, but I will go and look up the stats on my favorite teams and players every day. I'm a fan of mostly home-grown teams, though I will forgive a big free-agent or trade pick-up, such as the Phillies picking up Roy Halladay or if the Twins decide to trade for an Ace.
However, I've been hearing my Philadelphia Baseball friends ranting about how Jimmy Rollins going down with a calf injury. First off, it's a minor injury; the 15 day disabled list isn't that big of a deal, especially with the high-quality rehab available to all-star players, especially on Championship-Caliber teams. He didn't tear anything. Stop being so scared.
Second, Juan Castro and Wilson Valdez are more than capable of filling in for Rollins defensively, and, while he struggled last week, historically, he's got the better OBP and Batting Average (162 Game Average), so he should be more than adequate, especially batting in front of Polanco.
Third, Charlie Manuel always seems to be able to put people where they need to be, and pick up the right people at the right time. Last Year, he did it with Cliff Lee, of course, and Ben Francisco, who is a phenomenal defensive and adequate offensive substitution for either Ibanez or Werth, and can do Victorino's job alright. If he needs to, he'll find someone to help Rollins out.
However, I've been hearing my Philadelphia Baseball friends ranting about how Jimmy Rollins going down with a calf injury. First off, it's a minor injury; the 15 day disabled list isn't that big of a deal, especially with the high-quality rehab available to all-star players, especially on Championship-Caliber teams. He didn't tear anything. Stop being so scared.
Second, Juan Castro and Wilson Valdez are more than capable of filling in for Rollins defensively, and, while he struggled last week, historically, he's got the better OBP and Batting Average (162 Game Average), so he should be more than adequate, especially batting in front of Polanco.
Third, Charlie Manuel always seems to be able to put people where they need to be, and pick up the right people at the right time. Last Year, he did it with Cliff Lee, of course, and Ben Francisco, who is a phenomenal defensive and adequate offensive substitution for either Ibanez or Werth, and can do Victorino's job alright. If he needs to, he'll find someone to help Rollins out.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Home Again! Home Again! Tra-laa, Tra-laa.
IT's good to be home.
For those of you who don't know already, Little Panda ran a fever this weekend, ranging from 99.6 to 101. When we called her doctor's answering service, and his partner called back, he heard her screaming. He then stated that she wasn't crying, it was a pain scream, and we were to go to the Boardman Branch of the Akron Children's Hospital Emergency Room Immediately. Bug and I rushed her there...after, of course, following directions to the wrong hospital...
I have to praise the team at Akron Children's. All the doctors had a wonderful bedside manner, were willing to explain everything, and understood that I didn't question their judgment, or the nurse's, but that I was only a concerned father who wanted to know what was going on with his Little Panda. The Nurses were kind, willing to help, and some of the students even were willing to babysit (they only have one patient/day) while Bug and I went on dates.
Anywho, she's alright now...
...ok, new topic.
For those of you who don't know, I am a professional wrestling nerd, who likes to talk about wrestling from yesteryear...but more to repeat what I hear from other nerds who like to talk about wrestling from yesteryear. Recently, I heard someone ranting about how TNA Wrestling has a much better product than WWE Wrestling. That amused me...mostly because I appreciate wrestling for the stories as much as I do the matches and booking...and I don't think either of them do such a bang-up job. However, while I used to give the TV and PPV matches solely to TNA, I have to say that they've been slacking...and, while the story lines have improved drastically there, WWE still has them beat solidly. Don't have much time to write on that at the moment; I may dance more with the subject.
it was awesome to see the picture of my cousin almost catching a home-run at the Phillies' home opener this year. Brought back memories of going to opening day with my dad at Veteran's Stadium...damn I miss that...oh well, Go Phillies!
Working to get my business off the ground. Hooray for financial freedom! Yenchko Worldwide to the stars!
I guess this is a lame plug...but follow this blog for more fun updates.
For those of you who don't know already, Little Panda ran a fever this weekend, ranging from 99.6 to 101. When we called her doctor's answering service, and his partner called back, he heard her screaming. He then stated that she wasn't crying, it was a pain scream, and we were to go to the Boardman Branch of the Akron Children's Hospital Emergency Room Immediately. Bug and I rushed her there...after, of course, following directions to the wrong hospital...
I have to praise the team at Akron Children's. All the doctors had a wonderful bedside manner, were willing to explain everything, and understood that I didn't question their judgment, or the nurse's, but that I was only a concerned father who wanted to know what was going on with his Little Panda. The Nurses were kind, willing to help, and some of the students even were willing to babysit (they only have one patient/day) while Bug and I went on dates.
Anywho, she's alright now...
...ok, new topic.
For those of you who don't know, I am a professional wrestling nerd, who likes to talk about wrestling from yesteryear...but more to repeat what I hear from other nerds who like to talk about wrestling from yesteryear. Recently, I heard someone ranting about how TNA Wrestling has a much better product than WWE Wrestling. That amused me...mostly because I appreciate wrestling for the stories as much as I do the matches and booking...and I don't think either of them do such a bang-up job. However, while I used to give the TV and PPV matches solely to TNA, I have to say that they've been slacking...and, while the story lines have improved drastically there, WWE still has them beat solidly. Don't have much time to write on that at the moment; I may dance more with the subject.
it was awesome to see the picture of my cousin almost catching a home-run at the Phillies' home opener this year. Brought back memories of going to opening day with my dad at Veteran's Stadium...damn I miss that...oh well, Go Phillies!
Working to get my business off the ground. Hooray for financial freedom! Yenchko Worldwide to the stars!
I guess this is a lame plug...but follow this blog for more fun updates.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Long time, no post
Well, Here we are...
Evelyn is a month old, yesterday, and she's sitting on my lap sucking down Similac Sensitive. Even the pharmacist thinks she's the cutest baby she'd seen in a decade. It's awesome having the pretty kid.
Janette and I are enjoying Blizzards...and watching a movie. Haven't figured out which one yet...but it looks like Saving Private Ryan on TNT.
Hope to go enjoy cigars with Rob and the rest of the Cretins tomorrow...maybe even get my voice on the show this time. Anywho, check out the podcast @ www.blowinsmokepodcast.com
Later...and go Phillies.
Evelyn is a month old, yesterday, and she's sitting on my lap sucking down Similac Sensitive. Even the pharmacist thinks she's the cutest baby she'd seen in a decade. It's awesome having the pretty kid.
Janette and I are enjoying Blizzards...and watching a movie. Haven't figured out which one yet...but it looks like Saving Private Ryan on TNT.
Hope to go enjoy cigars with Rob and the rest of the Cretins tomorrow...maybe even get my voice on the show this time. Anywho, check out the podcast @ www.blowinsmokepodcast.com
Later...and go Phillies.
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