I don't like coffee. Trust me. I have tried. I have tried many different types of coffee. I have tried coffee with cream, sugar, lots of sugar, lots of cream, and coffee from some the "supposed" best coffee joints around. Always the same result; gagging and choking followed by an urgent need to find something to get the nasty taste out of my mouth.
Yet, where ever you go, people are always trying to give you coffee with little regard for those of us who can't stand the stuff. Meetings, church, hotels, restaurants, they all will offer you coffee, often for free. However, if you want a Mt. Dew or other beverage, you have to cough up some cash.
The other thing I don't understand about coffee is this obsession with Starbucks and other expensive coffees. I suppose my opinion here is bias, due the fact that a $1 cup of coffee tastes just as gross as a $5 cup of coffee. Does coffee at Starbucks really taste that much better than coffee at Speedway? Now, McDonald's is trying to make gourmet coffee; I know that because every time I drive up to get my Egg McMuffin lately, they ask if I would like to try an "Iced Mocha" or some other yuck. Keep your coffee, just give me my Egg McMuffin.
Today, I am calling up on all coffee haters - join me in my rebellion! Let us rid ourselves of this liquid curse for good! Ok, so there is really no need to rebel. But it would be nice to get some free Mt. Dew once in a while.
Peace.
Bill
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
What to do with my life...
Hey, friends. Can we talk? I have something going on, and need an ear to listen, or in this case, eyes to read. I once again find myself standing at crossroads in my career. My current job is a grant funded position, and while I enjoy it very much, my contract ends in June with little hope of being renewed. Thus, for about the third time in my adult life, I find myself asking, "what do I want to be when I grow up?" Naturally, I have been putting a lot of thought, prayer, and consideration into this question. I have sought the advice of trusted friends, and relatives. I have also taken a couple of career aptitude tests that were of some help, but they really just reaffirmed what I already knew; that I should be in career that helps people. What a big surprise.
One test also suggested I become a writer. This is something that I have considered over the years, and is very appealing to me. I love to write. The problem is that I have no educational background in writing, I have no idea where to start, and need to make money to help support the family while I am writing. One of my resolutions for 2010 is to get my children's book ideas to a publisher and see if anyone is interested. I have always heard, "write what you know." So, I may just do that. In the mean time, I need a real job. One that pays real money, so I can drive my real car, and eat some real food, and pay my real mortgage.
I have also considered returning to ministry, but my experiences there were not very good. Thus, I am not sure I want to take that leap again. Also, we do not want to leave Cincinnati, so if I did return to ministry, it would have to be in Cincinnati. I know that sounds rather limiting of God, but our daughter with Down syndrome needs the resources we can get here. I did enjoy the teaching and hand-holding ministry parts, but I did not do church politics well. I would also like to work for a school system or hospital, but again, am lacking the necessary education. Going to school to get a teaching degree is another option, but that requires money, and for money I need a job. It is a vicious cycle.
Well, that is where I am in my professional life right now. Thanks so much for taking the time to listen (read). I would love your feedback, encouragement, and even a kick in the pants or two. So feel free to pass those along.
Peace.
One test also suggested I become a writer. This is something that I have considered over the years, and is very appealing to me. I love to write. The problem is that I have no educational background in writing, I have no idea where to start, and need to make money to help support the family while I am writing. One of my resolutions for 2010 is to get my children's book ideas to a publisher and see if anyone is interested. I have always heard, "write what you know." So, I may just do that. In the mean time, I need a real job. One that pays real money, so I can drive my real car, and eat some real food, and pay my real mortgage.
I have also considered returning to ministry, but my experiences there were not very good. Thus, I am not sure I want to take that leap again. Also, we do not want to leave Cincinnati, so if I did return to ministry, it would have to be in Cincinnati. I know that sounds rather limiting of God, but our daughter with Down syndrome needs the resources we can get here. I did enjoy the teaching and hand-holding ministry parts, but I did not do church politics well. I would also like to work for a school system or hospital, but again, am lacking the necessary education. Going to school to get a teaching degree is another option, but that requires money, and for money I need a job. It is a vicious cycle.
Well, that is where I am in my professional life right now. Thanks so much for taking the time to listen (read). I would love your feedback, encouragement, and even a kick in the pants or two. So feel free to pass those along.
Peace.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The time for action is now!
I know it has been 7 months since my last blog, but there is something on my mind and I need to put it into print. I am very concerned with the path our country is on. In the past, I have not been one to be deeply involved in politics, but the events of the past year have spurred me in to action. Our government is leading us directly toward a major financial collapse. Like Icarus, they are so enamored with their own power they are flying us to ruin, without any concern for our future. I am baffled by the health care bill debate. I have to believe that Congress and Senate have seen the poll numbers that show that the overwhelming percentage of Americans do not support government run health care or their bill. Yet, they continue to push it through.
This bill will cost at least a TRILLION dollars, which we will be taxed for now, but will not begin until 2014. When it does begin, it will last only 5 years. How is this a good idea? Furthermore, I have yet to hear a good explanation as to how government controlled health care is constitutional. We are trillions in debt, yet they keep spending. They do not care about the American people, and seem to be doing what ever they want, no matter what their constituency tells them. Harry Reid last night revealed that they had come up with a government option deal, but he could "not disclose the details". What happened to transparency?
So, here is what I am doing and encourage you to join me if you have not already done so. Call, e-mail, or fax your Senators and Congressmen and tell them you do not support the health care bill and urge them to fight against it. Use your voice. Use it now! We do not need this right now. We need fiscal responsibility from our leaders. And do not just call once. Call every week. Call every day. Make them hear you. We cannot be silent any longer. Tell them we do not want tax dollars funding abortion. Tell them to think about the future of our children and our nation. Tell them that if they do not listen to the voters now, we will find someone who will in the next election. America is still a democracy. Stand up America and make your voice heard!
Bill
This bill will cost at least a TRILLION dollars, which we will be taxed for now, but will not begin until 2014. When it does begin, it will last only 5 years. How is this a good idea? Furthermore, I have yet to hear a good explanation as to how government controlled health care is constitutional. We are trillions in debt, yet they keep spending. They do not care about the American people, and seem to be doing what ever they want, no matter what their constituency tells them. Harry Reid last night revealed that they had come up with a government option deal, but he could "not disclose the details". What happened to transparency?
So, here is what I am doing and encourage you to join me if you have not already done so. Call, e-mail, or fax your Senators and Congressmen and tell them you do not support the health care bill and urge them to fight against it. Use your voice. Use it now! We do not need this right now. We need fiscal responsibility from our leaders. And do not just call once. Call every week. Call every day. Make them hear you. We cannot be silent any longer. Tell them we do not want tax dollars funding abortion. Tell them to think about the future of our children and our nation. Tell them that if they do not listen to the voters now, we will find someone who will in the next election. America is still a democracy. Stand up America and make your voice heard!
Bill
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
FREE T-SHIRTS!!!
I love free stuff. Really, who doesn't. I love it when friends have extra tickets to the Reds or Bengals and I go to a game at no charge. Occassionally, golf equipment companies will send me a free hat, free balls, or even clubs to test and review, that is sweet! I even like going to Sam's club or the grocery store when they have free samples to try.
One of my favorite things to get for free is a t-shirt. I really dig free t-shirts! So, one evening, I got on my computer and did a Google search for "Free T-Shirts". There are many companies out there that offer free t-shirts for completing a survey or signing up for their mailing list, or just to help advertise. So, I spent a couple hours one night doing just that. Signing up for mailing lists, taking a few surveys, and trying to get as many people to send me a free t-shirt as possible. By bath time, (Audrey's not mine) I had probably signed up for 10 to 15 free shirts. There were a few that were gimmicks; we give you a free t-shirt if you complete 3 offers or change your long distance, etc. A few others would give you a free shirt, but you had to pay a shipping fee. I was solely looking for "free", no cost to me what so ever. My goal was to get as many free t-shirts as possible and totally revamp my "casual" wardrobe.
To date, I have received a total of 1 free t-shirt. This shirt was from a screen printing company called "Monkey in a Dryer". I had to pay a small shipping fee (so there goes the free part) but the shirt was too cool to pass up. I am proudly wearing it in the picture.
Their website is www.monkeyinadryer.com, where you can get your free shirt (plus shipping and handling).
Thus, I would have to say my efforts to revitalize my t-shirt drawer have been unsuccessful. However, I will still have various charitable events in which I participate and the occasional convention where I can snag a free shirt. I was just hoping for something more substantial from the web. Silly me.
So, if you own a company, or just work for one, and have access to free shirts (or hats), send one my way (size XL). I always have room for a free t-shirt.
Peace.
Bill
One of my favorite things to get for free is a t-shirt. I really dig free t-shirts! So, one evening, I got on my computer and did a Google search for "Free T-Shirts". There are many companies out there that offer free t-shirts for completing a survey or signing up for their mailing list, or just to help advertise. So, I spent a couple hours one night doing just that. Signing up for mailing lists, taking a few surveys, and trying to get as many people to send me a free t-shirt as possible. By bath time, (Audrey's not mine) I had probably signed up for 10 to 15 free shirts. There were a few that were gimmicks; we give you a free t-shirt if you complete 3 offers or change your long distance, etc. A few others would give you a free shirt, but you had to pay a shipping fee. I was solely looking for "free", no cost to me what so ever. My goal was to get as many free t-shirts as possible and totally revamp my "casual" wardrobe.
To date, I have received a total of 1 free t-shirt. This shirt was from a screen printing company called "Monkey in a Dryer". I had to pay a small shipping fee (so there goes the free part) but the shirt was too cool to pass up. I am proudly wearing it in the picture.
Their website is www.monkeyinadryer.com, where you can get your free shirt (plus shipping and handling). Thus, I would have to say my efforts to revitalize my t-shirt drawer have been unsuccessful. However, I will still have various charitable events in which I participate and the occasional convention where I can snag a free shirt. I was just hoping for something more substantial from the web. Silly me.
So, if you own a company, or just work for one, and have access to free shirts (or hats), send one my way (size XL). I always have room for a free t-shirt.
Peace.
Bill
Did you miss me?
It has been quite a while since I have written, and if you missed me, I am sorry for the delay. I have not been feeling well for the past few months and my motivation for outside interests have waned. Turns out, according to my doctor and blood tests, that my pituitary gland is not functioning correctly. Which can cause symptoms of depression, fatigue, lack of energy, and a bevy of other issues. I am in treatment and starting to feel much better. So, I hope to begin writing again very soon.
I am also working on a children's book project, as prompted by my mother-in-law, so that has taken a little of my writing time away from this blog as well. I will return to you dear readers, I promise. I do have a lot to say, but just not the time to say it.
In the meantime, may the peace of Jesus be with you.
Bill
I am also working on a children's book project, as prompted by my mother-in-law, so that has taken a little of my writing time away from this blog as well. I will return to you dear readers, I promise. I do have a lot to say, but just not the time to say it.
In the meantime, may the peace of Jesus be with you.
Bill
Monday, March 9, 2009
Not gone
Hey, everyone. I have not stopped writing, just been busy. I am taking a stats class at the University of Cincinnati and it is kicking my butt. Plus, I have not been feeling well the past week, the kids have been sick, and my wife just finished a paper for a class she is taking. So, not much going on really.
I'll get something out to you soon.
Peace.
Bill
I'll get something out to you soon.
Peace.
Bill
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
As I was doing my Bible study and prayer time this morning, I came across a verse that caused me to pause and think. This is not a new occurrence, many verses cause me to reflect. But this one made me reflect to the point that I have to write my thoughts out and share them with others. I am sure I have read the verse many times in the past, but for some reason, today, the words really hit home. The verse is Mark 8:38, "If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels." (NIV)
There were two thoughts that jumped into my mind as I read that verse. First, that these words of Jesus are just as relevant today, as they were 2000 years ago. We live in "an adulterous and sinful generation." Anyone who would deny this fact does not understand the definition of sin. Just watch the news, or television, or go to Wal-Mart, you see the depravity of this world all around us. From our commercials to our lifestyle, our world is fallen. As Christians we are commissioned by Christ to be a light in the darkness, but our light is fading. We are allowing the world to silence our voice. Our country was founded upon the principles of Christianity, and yet Christians are seen as hypocrites, hate-mongers, and irrelevant.
Which brings me to my second thought from the passage at hand. Am I ashamed of Jesus? Jesus says that anyone who is ashamed of Him in this generation, He will be ashamed of when He returns in his Father's glory. I had to search my soul long and hard to find the answer to this question. Am I ashamed of Jesus? After some soul searching and prayer, I am happy to say that my answer is "no". There have been many times when I am ashamed of myself for choices I have made, especially in light of my relationship with Jesus. Yet, when push comes to shove, I know that I am doing my best to be a light in this dark world. It is difficult in today's society to live your faith out loud. We can't pray in schools, we can proselytize at work for fear of a lawsuit of being fired, and we don't want to be labeled a religious nut, so we stay silent. In doing so, we have lost our voice in society. Churches used to be the cornerstone of the community, have become just another event on our social calendar.
My friends and coworkers know that I am a Christian, and some of them have even come to me for council because of my faith. During my annual review last year I was reprimanded by my boss for sharing too much of my Christian beliefs during a work presentation. I will not say I am perfect, far from it. I am a sinner made whole by the precious blood of Jesus. And there have been times in the past when I should have spoken up, but held my tongue. For this I am ashamed. Yet, I am confident that my faith is evident to all. "I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes." (Romans 1:16 NIV)
So, there is an obvious question for you, dear reader, and hopefully you have already asked it.
Peace.
Bill
There were two thoughts that jumped into my mind as I read that verse. First, that these words of Jesus are just as relevant today, as they were 2000 years ago. We live in "an adulterous and sinful generation." Anyone who would deny this fact does not understand the definition of sin. Just watch the news, or television, or go to Wal-Mart, you see the depravity of this world all around us. From our commercials to our lifestyle, our world is fallen. As Christians we are commissioned by Christ to be a light in the darkness, but our light is fading. We are allowing the world to silence our voice. Our country was founded upon the principles of Christianity, and yet Christians are seen as hypocrites, hate-mongers, and irrelevant.
Which brings me to my second thought from the passage at hand. Am I ashamed of Jesus? Jesus says that anyone who is ashamed of Him in this generation, He will be ashamed of when He returns in his Father's glory. I had to search my soul long and hard to find the answer to this question. Am I ashamed of Jesus? After some soul searching and prayer, I am happy to say that my answer is "no". There have been many times when I am ashamed of myself for choices I have made, especially in light of my relationship with Jesus. Yet, when push comes to shove, I know that I am doing my best to be a light in this dark world. It is difficult in today's society to live your faith out loud. We can't pray in schools, we can proselytize at work for fear of a lawsuit of being fired, and we don't want to be labeled a religious nut, so we stay silent. In doing so, we have lost our voice in society. Churches used to be the cornerstone of the community, have become just another event on our social calendar.
My friends and coworkers know that I am a Christian, and some of them have even come to me for council because of my faith. During my annual review last year I was reprimanded by my boss for sharing too much of my Christian beliefs during a work presentation. I will not say I am perfect, far from it. I am a sinner made whole by the precious blood of Jesus. And there have been times in the past when I should have spoken up, but held my tongue. For this I am ashamed. Yet, I am confident that my faith is evident to all. "I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes." (Romans 1:16 NIV)
So, there is an obvious question for you, dear reader, and hopefully you have already asked it.
Peace.
Bill
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