Here we go...one more day left and it's history. It's a real pain to spend a week, wishing something was over and looking forward to something ahead. What's that about? Why is it so difficult to live in the present and enjoy it for all that it is?

Today, I realized that I was overloading on starchy food and realize that may reflect adversely on my attitude. In fact, I'm going to blame it on this. As I reflect on the day, this is what I learned:
If I drink coffee late in the evening, I'll have a difficult time getting a good nights rest.
In order to stay awake during an 8 hour class, it helps to eat continually...I've gained about 10 lbs. this week.
If I start the day with a positive attitude, the odds go way up that I'll end the day with a positive attitude. The converse is true, too.
I love steak!
geeked,
DpD

This week I'm a Flamer. I'm taking two FLAME classes in Indiana this week, needed for ordination. So far it's been a draining but yet interesting week. Sitting in a class for 35 hours, listening to lectures, is not something I do not look forward to. On the other hand, some of the discussion that has taken place in between lectures, has been both interesting and thought provoking.

One welcome surprise was bumping into an old friend, Wade. I have not seen him since Orleans. He wanted me to say "hey" to Steve and N8. It was good to get caught up with him. I'm really ready for these classes to be in my rear view mirror.

I'm still going through a bit of withdrawal after spending a week with our 3 grandkids. I keep the clear image of each of them with their outreached arms extended toward Papa, with a look of "please pick me up" on their face! Wow, what a feeling for a grandparent. I wonder if God, my Father, experiences the same joy when I lift my hands to Him with a similar plea: "Abba, please pick me up." I think so....
reaching,
DpD

Wild At Heart. That's the book study I will begin next week with a small group of men. I've read this book in 2001 but never entered into any meaningful discussion about what the author, John Eldredge, is asserting in his book. Should be interesting.

We're having fun with the grandkids. I'm finding out again why God has designed things the way He has. You have little children when you're younger for obvious reasons. I'm also finding out that the very things I thought I learned from my experience in raising 3 children...I have not. More on this later. Gotta jet.
Still learning,
DpD

We've got the kids! All three grandchildren are staying with us for 7 days! It's a chance for us to teach them everything they need to know...they've gotta learn! We went to Chuckie Cheese today with the kids and I had to fight them for the tokens. What's that about? I was having way too much fun with the games.

It's been a roller-coaster of emotions the past few days. Tomorrow is being called Celebration Sunday, we will be celebrating some great things that God has been doing in the church during the past 40 days. Testimonies of life change, baptisms, and faith stories ....should be an incredible day! We've also experienced some tough things during the past few days: the passing of a wonderful lady who worked part-time at the church, a friend dealing with re-occurring cancer, still another who experienced a very serious accident. The highs and lows of life - all in the span 3 days.

hanging on,
dpd

Banging around today, trying to get caught up....will that ever happen? Hope to get some pre-course work done for the FLAME classes I'm taking in March. I'm hopeful that completing these two classes will put a wrap on my ministerial education, and give me time to do some of things I've been missing out on. I'm really looking forward to summer - golf, softball, and just hanging out with the kids and grandkids. Summer is the best.

I noticed the other day that when most people would receive their food order at Russ' Restaurant, they'd stop for a minute and begin rubbing their eyes in unision, then gradully look up, look around to see if anyone was noticing their dilemna, and begin eating. There's got be something in that food that causes such an allergic reaction.
fillin it up,
DpD

On March 4, 1976, my daughter, Lisa Marie made her entrance into this world after 9 months of safety in her mother's womb. Today we celebrate Lisa's 28th birthday. Happy birthday Cheech! You are a blessing to us and the family. We are thankful for the laughter and joy you bring. I can still finish my dinner faster than you, though. We'll celebrate on Saturday at your favorite restaurant...get ready to rumble!

On March 4, 2003, Harrison David entered the world and continues to make us all smile and feel good about ourselves. "Aitchie" or "Jerry Mathers", as he is often called, is just plain fun to be around. His entertaining big sister, Autumn, and awesome cousin, Savannah, make sure that he knows he's the baby of the family and he loves it.

Happy Birthday Cheech and H. David! I love you both!
blessed in the dust,
dd