middle C

My Life...

2009-06-16T22:10:00.005-05:00

It's a boy!

2009-04-15T16:51:00.002-05:00

Ok, I know it's been awhile since I've posted anything. The suspense has been unbearable for some and this 12 month pregnancy has been extremely difficult for Vanessa. But Cooper is finally here, weighing over 13 pounds. He's already smiling. Pretty soon he'll be walking, talking, and wiping his own rear end.

Seriously, I love being a daddy. The day Cooper was born, I suddenly felt mature (however, that feeling has subsided quite a bit). He's perfect and I'm starting to wish there were two of him!

That's enough for now. I, Clay Bryant, vow to update my blog on a regular basis, admitting full guilt for my recent slackerness.

ctb

Almost time...

2009-01-29T22:41:00.006-06:00

For those of you who don't know, this is my nephew, AJ. He and my brother and my sister-in-law live in Killeen, TX and we don't get to see them very often. I'm dying to see him again soon - he's growing up so fast! My sister-in-law, Annika posted this picture tonight on her Flickr page. Vanessa and I thought it was really cool. Vanessa tried to post it on her blog, but was having computer issues, so here it is...on mine.

Anyhow, we will leave at 5:45 tomorrow morning to head to the hospital. Our baby boy should arrive in our lives within the next 10 hours or so. We're pretty sure we've got everything ready to go...we hope so at least. But, surprise surprise, Clay is wide awake and doesn't appear to be snoozing anytime soon. Keep us in your prayers. Hopefully, I'll be able to post soon with pictures of our new gift from God.

ctb

Top Ten...

2009-01-16T00:57:00.002-06:00

Since I haven't posted anything in a few days, and because I'm bored, I thought I'd share one of my favorite things with you...the Late Show Top Ten list. This one's good, and it's pretty appropriate for a lot of us guys.

Top Ten Signs You Are Watching Too Much Football

10. Only fresh air you've had this month is opening the door for the pizza guy.

9. You refer to orange juice as Fedex orange juice.

8. When your wife finishes making dinner, you dump a jug of Gatorade on her.

7. You schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor about Andy Reid's cholesterol.

6. Got a telestrator in the bedroom.

5. Three words: Norve Turner tattoo

4. You fantasize about Gisele Bundchen falling in love with you and introducing you to Tom Brady.

3. When you go to McDonald's you insist on ordering the McNabb

2. Laura has to keep reminding you that you're still President for two more weeks.

1. To be more like your favorite New York Giant, you shoot yourself in the leg.

Ha!

ctb

AJ...

2009-01-09T18:12:00.003-06:00

Vanessa & I recently purchased a digital video camcorder. Since then, I've been playing around with the software it came with. I just found a new deal I hadn't seen before and started toying around. I used pictures of my nephew, AJ, progressing from his birth to now. Here's what I figured out in the first 15 minutes or so.

ctb

Bummer...

2009-01-08T23:19:00.002-06:00

Well...wow. I guess I have to say it was a pretty good game. I'm sure some people will cry that we gave them the win because of two redzone turnovers, but every losing team can say that about every game. You make more mistakes, you lose...you make less mistakes you win. OU played well the first half, but that's about it. I'm not looking forward to all the talk about Chokelahoma and Bob Stoops sucking in big bowl games. All I can say is, OU's been to 4 national championships in 9 years. Can any other team say that? Didn't think so.

One gripe I have...if I hear one more "Tim Tebow is Jesus" type comment I'm going to hold a gun in my hand and shoot off all 10 of my toes one at a time. Someone who flaunts their spirituality to the world probably shouldn't be getting taunting penalties on a national platform. And Tebow winning the offensive MVP award is a joke. Percy Harvin dominated that game. Anyone who watched that game who knows football realizes that he was the true MVP.

Not much else to say. I'm glad OU made it to the national championship. Sure, would've liked for them to have won, but you've got to give props to the Gators. Other than that, I hope to see USC, Utah, and Texas play a round robin "Whiners Bowl Playoff" sometime in the next couple of weeks.

ctb

It's game time!

2009-01-08T19:06:00.006-06:00

This is me...

This is Vanessa...

I'm afraid the game is going to stress Vanessa out and cause her to go into labor...then I won't get to watch the game. Don't forget...reply to my post and tell me what date you think Cooper will arrive. I'm keeping a calendar.

BOOMER SOONER!

ctb

You name the date...

2009-01-06T22:47:00.003-06:00

Ok, the first childbirth class wasn't that bad, although it was an extremely boring 3 hours as I had expected. Vanessa told me that my last post made it seem like she was forcing me to go...that was definitely not the case. Everyone knows she wears the pants, but that's not why I went. I may joke around about having to go, but it is worth attending because I know it is for the health and safety of my wife and baby.

Now, it's time to see when everyone thinks Cooper will be born. Just comment on this post with the date that you think he'll arrive. I'm starting a calendar. Since we're poor, here's the reward for guessing the birthdate correctly - the person who guesses the correct date will get to change one diaper. If 2 people guess the correct date, each will get to change 1/2 of a diaper. If 3 people guess the correct date, each will get to change 1/3 of a diaper. Don't worry, I'll make sure it's #2 to make it worth your while!

Just so you have the most up to date information. The official due date is February 1st. Officially, Vanessa is 36 weeks and 2 days along. However, she is already 90% effaced and dialated to a 1 (if you don't know what those things mean...don't ask!), and the baby has definitely dropped. However, none of these things mean that she is in labor yet...it could be a few days or a few weeks - who knows?

I can't wait to see what everyone thinks. Good luck guessing!

ctb

Hee hee whoo...

2009-01-05T18:06:00.003-06:00

Tonight my man-card loses a big chunk of man-points. Although I have been a bit aprehensive, Vanessa and I will be attending Labor & Delivery Classes every Monday night until our son is born. I don't know what we'll be doing during these 3 hours each week, but I'm about to find out. I'm not looking forward to spending my evening with grumpy pregnant women...if only they were all like my wife - easy pregnancy, no mood swings, etc. For all you boys who get to watch the Fiesta Bowl tonight, consider yourself lucky. I guess I'll let you know how it goes.

ctb

How bout them Cowboys...

2008-12-29T00:06:00.003-06:00

Just watched my Dallas Cowboys get whooped 44-6 to end the season. It's a great disappointment. Carl Albert lost in the state championship, I lost in my Fantasy Football championship, Dallas didn't even make the playoffs...now I'm just hoping OU doesn't choke in the BCS National Championship in a couple weeks. I'm starting to get a bad rep here...

ctb

What is it?

2008-12-17T23:57:00.002-06:00

Bored out of my mind with the DVR empty, I just finished watching a show called NFL's Greatest Games. It featured Super Bowl XXXII between the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos. I know it's crazy, but my heart was pounding the last 15 minutes as they showed the 4th quarter play out. It was like 10 years ago, and I still got chills when the Broncos owner handed over the trophy and said, "There's only four words...THIS ONE'S FOR JOHN!" (In case you don't know, he was referring to John Elway.)

So that got me thinking...what is it about sports that does that to us? What is it about grown men playing a game that makes us shake, yell and holler at the top of our lungs, argue and fight, and give up so much money and time?

Well, here's my answer...I HAVE NO IDEA, but I love it. Football, Basketball, Baseball...it doesn't matter, I can get into it.

Which brings me to my next point...I'm scared to death about the BCS National Championship game. I hope "Big Game" Bob shows up with the "Stoops Troops" and not the "Chokelahoma Drunken Stupors" that have showed up in recent bowl games. One thing I know for sure...I'll be shaking and yelling, and, hopefully, experiencing chills when we pull off the upset.

ctb

Puff, puff, give?

2008-12-09T22:49:00.001-06:00

I just found out that Barack Obama smokes (cigarettes). Wow! Nuts! What role model for America.

ctb

Please pray...

2008-12-07T14:35:00.004-06:00

I'm requesting prayers for two of my friends. Each of them work very hard week in and week out, doing the best they can to show pride in what they represent. Boomer and Sooner are the mascots for the Oklahoma Sooners. They are beautiful horses, which pull the Sooner Schooner out of the tunnel and onto the field after each Oklahoma score. As many of you know, the OU football program has set many scoring records this year, leading to great fatigue and wear & tear on these young and promising beings. Please pray that the next month will be full of rest and recovery for Boomer and Sooner as we hope there will be many more Schooner-pulling opportunities come January 8th.

Thank you, God bless, and Boomer Sooner.

ctb

Chubby Chase...

2008-12-06T20:37:00.003-06:00

One of the things I thoroughly enjoy in this life is watching Chubby Chase Daniel play poorly, get hit hard, turn the ball over, cry like a baby, and walk to the sideline defeated. Haha! Boomer Sooner!

ctb

Texas sucks...

2008-12-02T09:08:00.011-06:00

First of all, let me say, I've heard enough about the Big 12 South and the BCS. The University of Texas, Mack Brown, and all of their fans seemingly have no vocabulary other than "we beat them." This just proves how stupid they are. OU lost to Texas...Texas lost to Texas Tech...Texas Tech lost to OU. Alright, think about it. It is a three-way tie because IT CAN'T BE FIGURED OUT WITH HEAD TO FREAKIN HEAD. That's the whole reason there's a tie-breaker! Idiots! They say that Texas should be ahead of OU because they beat OU. Well, then Tech should be ahead of Texas because they beat Texas. Sounds pretty stupid, doesn't it? So shut up! Have you forgotten that you were beaten by Texas Tech?!?! By the way, that's the same team we beat by over 40 points. Texas beat OSU by 4 points, I think, at home...we beat them by 20 on the road (their first home lost all year). Like I said, if you could decide it by using head to head, it would've never gone to a tie-breaker.

The other thing Texas likes to cry about is that they only lost to Tech because they dropped an interception on the last drive and they only got beat on the last play. If I'm not mistaken, any team can say that about any close game (point out one play that changed the game). Also, if I'm not mistaken, they didn't lose on one play. I'm pretty sure that Texas only led for about a minute and a half total in that game. And Texas Tech drove over 60 yards in under a minute to win it, immediately after Texas had taken their first lead. I'm pretty sure you have no right to claim that you're a "championship" team if you allow someone else to drive down the field like that in less than a minute AND score a touchdown. Dropped interceptions, defense, tackling, those are the things that determine how good a team you are. They aren't excuses you can use to say that "you shouldn't have lost the game."

It's obvious that ESPN and a few other media outlets have an agenda. Okay, I get it, everyone is afraid to put the Sooners in a big game because they've choked a couple of times. However, you shouldn't fry Oklahoma because the BCS is screwed up and you might not like the Big 12's tie-breaker rules. No one from Texas was complaining about the tie-breaker rules until they were on the short end of it. They sound like a bunch of babies arguing over a toy. Texas' athletic director was interviewed and quoted talking about how bad the tie-breaker rules are for the Big 12...he was on the committee that helped form the rules!!! And all the politicking!?!? Mack Brown comes on the ABC broadcast for the OU/OSU game and cries for 5 minutes. It proves what type of person Mack Brown is, but it's more ridiculous that ESPN encourages it. I've lost all respect for many people that I used to enjoy listening to. Stoops was asked to do the same thing during the Texas/Texas A&M game and he refused because he said that's not right. I'm sure glad Stoops is with OU - that's class.

If you really think that Texas got screwed, it's nothing new. The same writers and talking ESPN idiots cried like this last year for Georgia, in 2006 for Michigan, in 2004 for Auburn, and so on, and so on. Yes, the BCS sucks, but it can't be changed! It's done! Let the teams play it out on the field and shut up.

ctb

Economic crisis...

2008-11-25T23:46:00.005-06:00

I wanted to fill you in on some information I heard today...
To avoid bankruptcy, it seems that a lot of companies are going to be merging. Here are some of the mergers that are already said to be taking place:

Hale Business Systems, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Fuller Brush, and W.R. Grace Co. may be merging to become "Hale, Mary, Fuller, Grace."

PolyGram Records, Warner Bros., and Nabisco Crackers may join forces to become "Poly, Warner, Cracker."

Zippo, Audi Motors, Dofasco, and Dakota Mining will be merging to form "ZipAudiDoDa."

Knott's Berry Farm and the National Organization of Women (NOW) appear to be merging to "Knott NOW."

Fed Ex may merge with it's biggest competitor, UPS, to become "FedUP."

Ok, just a little corny humor. I'm sure you're all thinking one of two things. Either, "Hahahahahaha..." or, "Clay, you're an idiot."

ctb

Funny story...

2008-11-25T23:38:00.002-06:00

A politician died and was met by St. Peter. Peter said, "I was told to offer you something you are very familiar with. You will be allowed to vote for where you will spend eternity - heaven or hell. You will spend a day in each place and then cast your vote." The politician took the elevator down and arrived in hell. As the doors opened, Satan met him with a warm handshake. Many politicians who had gone before him were there and greeted him. It was a place of incredible beauty and happiness. No one worked, yet everyone had an abundance. Everyone enjoyed whatever relationship they chose. Everyone lived by their own rules and were outrageously happy. It was everything he had worked toward all of his political life. At the end of the day, he hated having to leave. He took the elevator up and met St. Peter again. He said to Peter, "I would guess that in heaven I would have to live by God's rules - his 'thou shalts' and 'thou shalt nots.' Therefore, I've seen enough! I've made up my mind. I vote for hell." He entered the elevator again and pushed the down button. As the doors opened in hell, his eyes took in absolute devastation aand ruin. People were starving and fighting everywhere. Satan approached him with a broad smile. The politician asked, "What happened?" Satan responded, "Yesterday we were compaigning, today we have your vote."

Haha! Funny, huh? The weird thing is that I've always wanted to get involved in politics at some point in my life. Let me clarify...I want to be in politics - I don't want to be a politician.

ctb

Buryin, marryin, and bangin on the roof...

2008-11-22T01:02:00.003-06:00

Thursday was a little crazy for me. I did a funeral at 10am here in Midwest City, then drove to Ft. Gibson for the graveside service at 2pm. Ft. Gibson is about a 2 hour drive. I have to say the Ft. Gibson National Cemetary is amazingly beautiful. It's set up much like the Arlington in Washington DC, only on a much smaller scale.

After the graveside service, I hurried home so I could grab a quick bite to eat and change into a different suit. I had a wedding at the state capitol at 7pm. By the time it was all said and done, I got home at about 9 and was exhausted. It was one of those days that, in ministry, doesn't happen very often. I'm sure they're aren't a whole lot of people who have done a funeral and wedding in the same day, but who knows. What can I say other than...that's why they pay me the big bucks. Actually, I was more than pleased just to have the opportunity to help a few families out.

We've also had some bangin on the roof the last couple of days. Wednesday afternoon I was startled when I was sitting in the living room...the house suddenly began shaking violently due to something hitting our roof. It was the roofing company delivering bundles and bundles and bundles of shingles and shingles and...ok, you get it. The roofers started on our roof Thursday afternoon and were finished by around 4 on Friday. Racism and stereotypes aside, those Mexicans REALLY are hard workers and very good at what they do. The roof looks pretty good.

And, we finished up Friday night by going to the Thunder game. I'm pretty sure the Carl Alber girls could beat them. It's pretty sad. Oh well, I don't think I need to say anything else. I'm sure I've said enough.

That's my world the last few days...

ctb

And so it begins...

2008-11-16T00:26:00.002-06:00

Well, the holiday season has officially begun for Vanessa and I. We just returned from Clinton, OK, where we spent the evening with Vanessa's mom's side of the family. Since Vanessa's grandparents (on her mom's side) are divorced and both remarried, we always meet with her grandfather and his wife before Thanksgiving weekend to make sure that we get to see him and her grandmother for the holidays. (Christmas is much the same.)

Our remaining plans for Thanksgiving go something like this...Thanksgiving day we begin by having lunch with my family. We never really do anything with my dad's side, so we do lunch each year with my mom's side of the family. It's nothing unusual for us to have 30 or more together for lunch. Immediately after lunch, we'll drive to Hinton, OK to be with Vanessa's mom's side of the family at her grandmother's house. We'll spend the rest of Thanksgiving Day there with her family. Then I go hunting on Friday (whoo hoo!). Saturday we'll travel to Marlow, OK to have lunch with Vanessa's dad's side of the family. Hopefully, OU will beat Texas Tech next week, then they'll be playing OSU the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the evening, so we can leave Marlow and get home in time to watch Bedlam.

It's crazy how much travelling we do for the holidays, but it's worth it. It's not very often that either of us get to see all of our family. I know a lot of people have to rotate years, spending holidays with one side one year and the other side the next. While it does make for a lot of travel in a short amount of time, we really are fortunate that both of our families are close, so we get to spend time with both sides each holiday.

I'm sure many of you share in this busy-ness. I know one thing...we'll be worn out when it's all said and done. But, I'm sure this will help to make the holidays rush by, and, before we know it, we'll be holding our baby boy!

ctb

Where are you Barack?

2008-11-11T00:26:00.003-06:00

I never thought I'd say anything like this, but this is really what I'm thinking. There is nothing on TV except football and basketball, and I don't like it. Now, I would normally be thrilled to have the option of watching football OR basketball, but not right now. No, I am enduring a great let-down. At this time about a week ago, I found myself being driven insane by the non-stop, on-going discussions about the presidential election - now...I'm lonely without it. If this was such a monumental and historical election, why aren't we hearing anything about it anymore? Will it return to front-page media when Obama is sworn in and actually takes over as president? Hmmm....

Anyway, I don't like hearing about nothing but politics, but I miss it. Ok, I know that makes no sense whatever so I'll shut up.

I'm now realizing that this was one of those blog posts consisting of the ramblings of my mind and nothing that is truly worth writing or reading...I'm sorry you wasted 30 seconds of your life reading it.

ctb

Voter fraud...

2008-11-04T13:53:00.005-06:00

I have to let you know up front, I've got election day blues...and I don't want to change my complaint free bracelet, so I will keep this as polite and courteous as possible.

I don't understand why people are willing to vote for a candidate just because he says he'll bring "change." Hey, if change is what you want, well then you're gonna get it. America got change when the democrats took over congress in '05. Say what you want about George Bush, but, until then, our country's economy wasn't falling faster than Usain Bolt running the 100M. And don't take this the wrong way, because I'm not racist, but what would people say if I told them I voted for John McCain just because he's white. Hmmm...this country bleeds with hypocrisy.

And to top it all off, if people don't vote for Obama just because he's black, then they're voting because he wants to "spread the wealth." I'm sorry, but that's not America - that's socialism. Take from the rich, give to the poor...bite me. It's more like steal from those who have worked their butts off (otherwise known as Americans) and give to the ones too lazy to work, expecting everyone else to take care of them (otherwise known as worthless citizens, undeserving of living in this great nation).

Yes, I do believe Obama is a decent man, a great speaker, and a great leader. But, that doesn't mean he's qualified to be president. Just wanted to get that off my chest.

***I'm sure some people will disagree with me, and that's fine. But if you want to gripe about my opinion then at least have the decency to state who you are, instead of that sissy "anonymous" junk.

ctb

Vote now...

2008-11-03T13:00:00.002-06:00

No, I'm not talking about the presidential election...you better be planning to do that already anyway. Everyone vote on my blog poll - when will Vanessa have our baby? There will be more polls to come.

ctb

You've gotta see this...

2008-10-28T23:20:00.004-05:00

I first saw this video about a week ago and was amazed. Even if you're not a golf fan, you need to watch this - and be sure to watch all of it so you see the whole story. As my favorite OC cafeteria worker always said, "Enjoy!"

Part 1

Part 2

ctb

26 shouldn't feel this old...

2008-10-27T23:48:00.003-05:00

My friend Rodney recently posted on his blog about whether or not 39 is old. That got me thinking...I feel way too old to just be 26. I don't know if it's because I'm with teenagers all the time or what, but it's kinda scary.

Here's my last few weeks...I went to the doc to figure out why I've been having terrible headaches every day for months. He tells me I need to have an MRI - so I do. Meanwhile, I also go to get my eyes checked for the first time in 3 years - I'm told that I need reading glasses. Then I get my MRI results back and find that I have some type of cyst in my sinus cavity, that will most likely need to be surgically removed, and am referred to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialist). After I go to the ENT and have that situation taken care of, if my headaches don't stop, I'll be sent to a neurologist. Then, the afternoon of finding out that I have a cyst in my cystem (haha), I leave for our Fall Retreat with the youth group, where I play tackle football and some "star-tripping" game where I crash to the ground and black out (it was kinda cool, though).

All that said...I shouldn't be experiencing all this at 26! I've already passed 8 kidney stones and had an operation to take care of another 2. I have a bad back, bad headaches, and bags under my eyes. All I can say is...my poor wife. She's got a lot to deal with!

ctb

Such a stud...

2008-10-19T23:05:00.005-05:00

The Coolest Nephew Ever

For those of you who don't know, I have a nephew who had his first birthday just a couple months ago. Cale, Annika, & AJ live in Killeen, TX which is about 6 hours from here. Sure, I don't like that my brother and sister-in-law are that far away, but the worst part is that we don't get to see AJ very often.

The most amazing thing is how much he grows so quickly. Hopefully we'll be seeing them all soon, with Thanksgiving approaching. Here's a couple more pics...

It's hard to believe that Vanessa and I will have a young one in just a few months. It's time to get to work on the baby room. I'm gonna have to paint some time this week so we can begin getting furniture and all that good stuff. I'll try to keep you up to date on how that goes.

Vanessa registered Friday at Babies "R" Us, which really was a sign that it's getting close! I'm not gonna lie to ya...I'm gettin a little nervous!

ctb

I know, it's been awhile...

2008-10-14T21:27:00.003-05:00

I know it's been awhile since I've updated my blog...over a month to be exact. However, the Thunder woke me up. I'm watching the OKC Thunder play on TV and I'm pumped. I don't care how much the artists formerly known as "Sonics" have sucked...all that matters is they're here now and I can finally be a true NBA fan. Can't wait for the regular season!

ctb

No more big truck, but no minivan either...

2008-09-15T17:53:00.003-05:00

As some of you may have noticed, Vanessa and I have recently made a vehicle purchase. With our baby boy on the way, we thought it would be wise to upgrade to something with a little more room and something safer for a car seat. So, we bought a 2001 Chevy Silverado from our friends Gavan & Melody. It is an extended cab with the 3rd & 4th doors. It also has upgraded captain's chairs with a middle console and lots of other gadgets, so it's really comfortable. We really love the truck, but at the same time it's difficult for me to part with my old one. It's definitely worth it though - I'm getting rid of my 4X4 baby to get a REAL baby!

New Truck

If any of you know someone looking to buy a truck, please pass this information on or have them contact me. It is a 1997 Ford F-150 with 115,000 miles. It is 4-wheel drive with a 4.6 litre V8 engine that runs great. It's equipped with off-road tires in great condition and with a lot of tread, keyless entry, alarm, tinted windows, upgraded stereo with single cd player, sliding rear window, power windows, power locks, cruise controle, tilt, dual air bags, a bed mat, and the towing package. It is the perfect "guy truck." I'm asking $5,000 OBO. I really would like for someone to just make me a reasonable offer so I can get rid of it as quickly as possible. Here are some pictures:

Old Truck

ctb

Is this really happening?

2008-09-12T02:06:00.003-05:00

I know that any of you who know us have already heard that we're having a boy. Vanessa and I are so excited. This is so weird. As my lovely wife stated in her blog recently, it's hard to believe that there's a life in there. It's definitely a good reminder of all that God is capable of.

I don't really know what to say. Sometimes I catch myself starting to tear up when I think about being a daddy and having a son of my own, but then I catch myself picturing his life and our life together as a family. It's so weird to think about what he might look like, what type of personality he'll have, how he'll react to my crazy family, what things he'll like to do.

All I know is that a child is a gift from God (although it's difficult for me to believe that my parents at one point considered me a gift). I won't take it for granted. Pray for Vanessa and I, and for our son, that God will watch over our family as we grow together.

ctb

Football and Other Life Changes...

2008-09-05T11:32:00.002-05:00

It's football time in Oklahoma! I always love hearing those words over the PA at the first OU game of the season, which was a success by the way. It's not too often a dominant team like OU has to play a high school team (although OSU plays them every year), but they were able to execute like they should have so it was a success. I also enjoyed watching the NFL season kick off last night and look forward to High School Football starting this weekend.

Everything else is going well. Next Tuesday morning Vanessa and I will find out if we're having a boy, a girl, or maybe even a girl that I can raise to be a boy (just kidding - that's wrong). Honestly, Vanessa and I just want a healthy baby, but I'm not gonna sit here and tell you that I wouldn't rather have another Bryant boy.

Well, that's all for now. Soon I will be sharing with you my thoughts on the presidential election. Have a good weekend.

ctb

It's raining, it's pouring...

2008-08-14T22:15:00.001-05:00

This afternoon I mowed my yard. It was in such a shape that it looked like a baseball field (yeah, the dirt infield part). I've never seen so much brown grass. BUT...now it's raining...no, pouring. I've never been so excited to see rain. Except the rain brought along with it some lighting and thunder. I was on the front porch and about jumped out of my shorts when a transformer blew right across the street. My ears were ringing for at least 5 minutes. Nonetheless, it's a good night for rain. Hope y'all are safe...

ctb

Happy Birthday & Welcome Home (a day late)...

2008-08-13T13:13:00.001-05:00

I know this is a day late, but I just wanted to let everyone know that my good buddy, Nathan, had a birthday yesterday. He also arrived back in OKC late last night - he has officially completed his commitment to the US Army. So Nathan, happy birthday and thank you for your service to this country.

ctb

Rewind...

2008-08-07T11:33:00.002-05:00

Well, the youth group summer is officially over and I have to say that I'm very relieved. It seems that every year I'm more and more exhausted at the end of a busy summer. Maybe I really am getting older. I'm sure the fact that I haven't kept in shape doesn't help so much either. Anyway, I'm looking forward to the Fall, especially because it brings my second earthly love - football. I thought I'd rewind the summer for you. Since it's been like 8 years since I updated my blog I thought I should let you know why...

June 1st-6th Quartz Mountain Camp Session
June 29th-July 2nd Junior/Senior Trip to Dallas
July 6th Lock-In
July 7th-11th Vacation Bible School Preparation
July 10th Six Flags Trip
July 13th-16th Vacation Bible School
July 20th-26th Lariat Creek Camp Senior Session
July 27th-31st New Orleans Mission Trip
August 5th Illinois River Float Trip

That was my summer! Obviously that doesn't include the little Sunday to Sunday stuff when we're in town. But, as you can see, it's been go, go, go. I'm excited for what comes now...sit, sit, sit.

Come on, football! I'm ready. Oh yeah...all you tools in Fantasy Football are going down!

ctb

Watch Dateline NBC

2008-07-13T23:17:00.003-05:00

Peter Alexander from Dateline NBC

Just wanted to let everyone know that you need to watch Dateline NBC tomorrow night (Monday, July 14th) at 9pm (central time). Believe it or not, my family will be on there. We filmed it about 3 or 4 months ago. Gail (her real first name is Eilene, but we know her as Gail), my mom's cousin who has always been like an aunt to us and a sister to my mom, lost her mother in a car accident about 20 years ago. She didn't know it, but her mom had a lot of money in a bank account in South Carolina. Since Gail was the only beneficiary the money is rightfully hers...she just never knew about it. That's the reader's digest version. Watch or record the show tomorrow night...it should be pretty cool.

ctb

Crazy Fun

2008-07-07T16:33:00.002-05:00

It's been crazy here lately, but I'm not complaining. We had our lock-in last night...it was a blast. We went and played laser tag & putt-putt, then went bowling. After that, we returned to the church building and I convinced all of the teenagers into helping decorate rooms for VBS. That's a huge help, because we've got a start so we don't have as much to do the rest of the week. We spent the rest of the night (or morning I guess) playing games. Tons of fun.

Tomorrow we begin VBS prep. It will be a busy week. We go to Six Flags Thursday.

That's my life for now...

ctb

Summer in a suitcase...

2008-06-28T22:29:00.003-05:00

Yeah, the summer continues. As most of you know, my typical summer consists of 80% work, 15% home, and 5% golf. I'm not sure which percentage I want to increase more, home or golf, but I'm pretty sure by next summer the home part will take over the leading % (since 7 months from now my life home life will change drastically).

Although we just got home yesterday from vacation, Vanessa and I leave tomorrow morning immediately after church services to go to Dallas for 4 days. We're taking 8 high school juniors, seniors, and graduates for a mission/fun trip. I plan to update the blog each night with highlights from the days' activities.

Pray for us as we travel. One plus is that we won't have to worry about any flight cancellations since we're driving. Check back tomorrow night.

ctb

Home Sweet Home

2008-06-27T18:12:00.002-05:00

Since travelling through Guadalahara last night, everything went well. We made it into OKC around noon today. Vanessa was able to take a short nap and so was I after being at the office for a couple of hours. So, I will update further with final thoughts on our trip after I'm able to recover a little more.

In the meantime, I thought I'd leave you with what I missed the most while away:

Good toilet paper
Our bed/couch
Quality sleep
Habla Ingles
Taco Bell
Non-Fine Dining food
Water from the faucet
Real Coca-Cola

There's probably more that I've forgotten, but that's not a bad list.

ctb

Delayed

2008-06-26T23:49:00.004-05:00

After a great start to the day (we went to the flea market and I ate the three best tacos of my life), we went to the Puerto Vallarta airport at about 3 o'clock to head home. Upon arrival, we checked our luggage and made our way to the terminal. We were told that our flight was delayed due to bad weather in Houston. So we waited, and about an our later were told that our flight had been cancelled. We were told that it was due to mechanical problems, but I'm quite certain that it was really because there were only 40 passengers booked for our flight into Houston - not nearly enough for Continental Airlines to justify all that money for fuel. Anyway, there were no flights going out of Puerto Vallarta the rest of the evening with any seats available, so we were stuck.

To make matters worse, once we heard the announcement that our flight had been cancelled, Vanessa and I were one of the first passengers at the desk to book a flight for Friday. We were told we would be put on an American Airlines flight at 9am. Then after 45 minutes of waiting (at the front of the line) and being told that we could leave at 9am tomorrow, we were told that we would have to go back downstairs to collect our luggage and book our flights there.

Here comes the good part. Since we were the first in line upstairs that meant we were one of the last in line downstairs. When we finally approached the ticket counter we were told that we could fly out of Puerto Vallarta on Friday at 4:54pm and arrive in OKC after midnight. Needless to say, I was furious...I told the lady that she was crazy, seeing as how she was the one upstairs who told us (before everyone else) that we could have a 9am flight. After insisting that there was no other alternative, she came back and said, "Well, I checked again and now it seems we can get you out at 1:45pm Friday." Again, I told her she was crazy since that wouldn't put us in OKC until at least 10 o'clock Friday night. After much arguing and complaining (I had to switch my bracelet at least a dozen times - but I didn't care), she told us we could fly to Guatalajara (a city of 7 million people - still in Mexico) tonight and fly out at 6:20am Friday morning, putting us in OKC around noon. Given the circumstances, I was quite satisfied and proud of myself for defying the lying Continental employees who had earlier stated that there were no other alternatives.

After getting this all sorted out, we still had several hours of waiting to do. My mood was lightened drastically when I made a new friend - Sam Adams. No, seriously...his real name is SAMUEL ADAMS! We made fun out of the situation as you can see in the picture below. It gave us a good laugh - Vanessa didn't even get on to us when we decided to play around in the wheelchairs.

Me & my "beer" buddy...

Anyway, it's now it's after midnight (Friday morning) and we're in a hotel in Guatalajara (a very nice one I might add - free to us), 12 hours after arriving at the airport and 3 hours past the time we were supposed to be back in OKC. We have to wake up in about 3 1/2 hours and I can't sleep. It could be worse, though...we could still be in Puerto Vallarta.

Since we've had an extended day, I thought I'd give you a treat. A bonus "Random Mexican of the Day." This one's good...

RMOTD (bonus)

Hopefully, the next time you read a blog post from me it will be written from my couch or my office, speaking of how pleasantly event free our Friday trip home was - we'll see.

ctb

No Quiero Taco Bell

2008-06-26T12:24:00.002-05:00

I just had the three best tacos of my life. They were from a low-budget taco stand around the corner from our resort. I'm trying to talk the dude into moving to Oklahoma.

ctb

The Last Days

2008-06-25T22:57:00.005-05:00

We awoke this morning at about 8 o'clock to the sight of a huge Carnival Cruiseship making its way into the marina about 1/4 mile from our resort. It's amazing how massive these things are. It was a pretty cool sight to see.

We then went for one final round of golf - again at Marina Vallarta. But, this time Vanessa was with me, unlike Sunday when I played alone. I warned her ahead of time, but it was still pretty funny to watch my paranoid wife keep her distance from the native crocodiles of the course. Although she was a bit uptight, Vanessa was able to get a couple of good pictures.

Again, we enjoyed the amazing scenery of this course located right on the ocean. For a second I felt almost like I was on the PGA Tour playing at Pebble Beach or something...but then I hit my tee shot on the par 3 that's nearest the ocean and was bluntly reminded that I'm horrible. Oh well...

Unfortunately, I started feeling sick to my stomach yesterday evening and it progressively got worse throughout last night and today. So, after golf I retired to the room for a bit while Vanessa got a facial and a pedicure at the spa. We had a great dinner and went to a show, now it's bedtime.

We're going to go back downtown tomorrow to get a couple of things from the flea market. We'll leave the resort to head to the airport at around 3 o'clock and, hopefully, be back in OKC around 11 o'clock tomorrow night. Keep us in your prayers as we travel. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have enjoyed such a great vacation for the last week, but we are looking forward to being able to sleep comfortably in our own bed.

Although this will be our final "Random Mexican of the Day," there will be some more photos to come when we get home (will be posted either Thursday night or Friday morning).

RMOTD

ctb

I'm sorry sir, you're to big for this slide...

2008-06-25T00:47:00.003-05:00

Vanessa and I got to go to a water park today. It was pretty nice - about half the size of white water. It cost us $20 for a taxi one way and about $18 a piece to get in. We were pretty excited about getting to watch a dolphin show and enjoying some water slides. However, after watching the show, I went and got us a couple of tubes. We climbed the tower and got to the top where we could go down a slide and the guy told me that no one over 6' tall could ride. So basically we paid about $80 to get to enjoy the lazy river. After talking to the lady at the information desk, they politely refunded us our money. My main issue was that we never would have paid that much to go to the park if we would have known I couldn't enjoy most of the slides. Nonetheless, we did have a good day. We pretty much just relaxed for the afternoon and evening and had a very nice, late dinner.

RMOTD

Only one full day left...we're running out of time here. We've been having some problems with a really slow internet connection, so hopefully I'll be able to update again tomorrow. Peace out...

ctb

Another Day in Vallartadise

2008-06-23T22:53:00.004-05:00

Today was good. I was able to play another round of golf. I thought the course I played yesterday was beautiful and challenging - it was nothing compared to this one. Today's course, Vista Vallarta, has hosted numerous PGA, Champions, Senior, and Ameteur Tour events. But, the best part about golf today was that my favorite caddy was with me. Her name is Vanessa...you may know her.

Me & Vanessa...

My hot caddy...

Action shots...

After our round of golf, we went for a swim and took a short nap. Since we've been drinking more than our share of bottled water provided by the resort, we caught a cab after dinner and visited the local Wal-Mart (mom would be so proud!). It was a very successful trip, especially because it resulted in a successful "Random Mexican of the Day" picture:

RMOTD

We're pretty much exhausted now, so we're going to hit the sack (even though it did nothing to us) and look forward to tomorrow. Tomorrow after brunch we're going to a water park. It should be lots of fun. Another update tomorrow evening...

ctb

Random Mexican of the Day

2008-06-22T22:43:00.006-05:00

I know you've been waiting for it, so here it is...

RMOTD - Sunday
Here's some more pics from our evening...

Vanessa hates it when I mess up pictures...

I can't believe our trip is almost halfway over. We're having a great time. Sorry I post these so late, but I want to get all the updates in for each day and we don't get back to our room from our evening activities until around 10:30 normally.

Hope all of you back home are doing well. We miss everyone, but would rather be here for a few more days...sorry!

ctb

Marina Vallarta

2008-06-22T13:21:00.003-05:00

I just finished a round of golf at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club. It was a beautiful course and, by far, the most difficult I've ever played. I sweat like a fat guy in a sauna, but it went well - I shot in the 80's and was able to see some spectacular scenary. Here are some pictures to give you glimpse of my experience:

The most spectacular view on the course - a

par 3 that runs right alongside the Ocean...

Beautiful fairway...

Another beautiful hole...

My favorite shot - a caddy cleaning my clubs...

At this very moment, Vanessa is at the spa getting a massage. It's amazing how much we're getting to do this week for so cheap. Just about everything is included in the all-inclusive plan, and what isn't included is dirt cheap. I'm hoping Vanessa comes back relaxed, refreshed, and ready for a dip in the pool. I know I am!

ctb

Saturday in Vallarta

2008-06-21T23:24:00.005-05:00

Well, we've now spent an entire day in Puerto Vallarta. We slept in this morning and had breakfast in one of the several restaurant options here at our resort. After that, we headed to the flea market where we encountered more salesmen than I ever knew existed. If what I've experienced every time I've been to a Mexican flea market is symbolic of the rest of civilization here, then I'd hate to have to visit a car dealership. These people are ruthless. Everyone has something to sale and, typically, it's something you could make at home for 50 cents or less. However, we enjoyed ourselves and got some much needed exercise (we've been eating like Cale at a buffet!). We also took some good pictures today...I'll show you a few.

Vanessa & her salsa partners...

Me & the quietest woman in the world...

Taxi ride...

After our time downtown and at the flea market, we attempted to take a nap, but ended up swimming in the pool. What started as a very cloudy and windy day ended up being clear and sunny - perfect. We ate some great shrimp for dinner and went to a Disney show at the resort's nightly activity facility.

Me & my lovely wife after dinner...

We're having a blast and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I get to play golf at a course that's been around since the late 1800's. It's located near the marina, right on the ocean. It should be interesting since I'm a horrible golfer and this will probably be the nicest course I've ever played.

Vanessa just gave me a great idea. I will now leave you with a picture. This is the first edition of "Random Mexican of the Day."

Random Mexican of the Day...

ctb

The CV3 is Puerto Vallarta!

2008-06-20T23:11:00.004-05:00

We made it into Mehico a little after 4 this afternoon and got to our hotel around 6. I have to say this...my wife did a fantabulous job of planning our vacation. Our room has a balcony and an ocean view. The beaches aren't the perfect white sand that you see in some places and the water isn't as perfectly clear like in some places, but even so, Puerto Vallarta is beautiful. I didn't know this until we got here, but it is surrounded by beautiful mountains. We're definitely going to enjoy our time here!

One of the funniest things about Mexico is that there are always people trying to sale you stuff. As soon as you exit the doors of the airport you find Mexicans trying to give you free stuff so they can get you to come check out their resort and listen to their sales pitch. I thought I'd give you some examples of things I had to say today:

"I'm not interested in going to your breakfast and listening to you talk for 90 minutes." "No thanks, I don't want to buy a fake silver bracelet for $20." "No, I won't buy a hand-carved wooden turtle." "I don't want to go parasailing with you tomorrow." "No thanks...not in the mood for a horseback ride." "Nope...never been scuba diving and my claustrophobia won't allow it."

All that being shared, I am looking forward to going to the flea market downtown (possibly tomorrow). I love Mexican flea markets! You can always find the most useless stuff really cheap. Plus, I love bargaining!

Everyone who's interested can check this each day as I will be updating it regularly with pictures and experiences. We'll probably miss everyone for the next week, but the three of us will be enjoying ourselves!

ctb

The day I thought I'd been waiting for...

2008-06-18T11:48:00.003-05:00

Well, we had a blast at the Braves/Rangers game, but it didn't end up as I'd hoped on the scoreboard. Chipper didn't play 3rd base - he was the DH - so that wasn't cool. Nonetheless, I got to see the braves in person and I got to see my favorite nephew for about 15 minutes before going to the game. I hope there will be a next time, and when there is, I hope it will be a victory for the God-loved Atlanta Braves rather than a victory for the Rangers in the heart of God-forsaken Texas.

ctb

The day I've been waiting for...

2008-06-17T10:15:00.007-05:00

Today is the day I've been waiting for most of my life. We are leaving OKC at around noon to go to the Ballpark in Arlington and watch the Atlanta Braves play the Texas Rangers.

When I was just a young lad, I would spend many of my evenings in front of the television watching the Bravos play on TBS. Since TBS will be hosting playoff games at the end of this season, they are not allowed to show any bias to any one team during the season. Thus, the Braves have not been on TV much this season and I haven't been able to see many games. However, I lucked into some tickets and am thrilled to take the drive down I-35 to finally watch them in person.

There is one thing that's making me nervous, though - RAIN. The forecast isn't looking too hot right now, so we'll just have to see how it goes. I hope I get Chipper's autograph.

ctb

Yes, I am going to be a father...

2008-06-16T10:06:00.002-05:00

Isn't it scary? Poor kid. Well, I'm very excited. I'm fortunate to have a great wife who I know will also be the best mother. I'm looking forward to making her be the disciplinarian and me being the good guy who spoils our children. Ok, so maybe she won't allow that, but it would be nice. Everyone asks if we want a boy or a girl. Naturally, we have to give the token church response of "We don't care what it is, as long as it's healthy." Come on, everyone knows they have a preference! I would rather have a son...even guys like me who suck at sports want a son so they can teach them to throw a football or baseball and to take golfing. However, I wouldn't be upset about having a daughter either. I'm just scared to death to have a teenage daughter in about 15 years. Nonetheless, we WILL be happy with a boy or a girl...as long as it's healthy.

Anyone know where I can get a shirt that says "There's a Bun in the Oven"?

ctb

It's about time!

2008-06-16T09:51:00.001-05:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to add another post. I know it's been exactly a month, but every time I've tried to post a new blog it has told me that there's an error and it won't work. But...now it is working...finally. And I have lots to share, so keep your eyes open. A new post is coming within the next half hour.

ctb

Sub

2008-05-16T12:27:00.003-05:00

When I was in school, the substitutes were constantly made fun of and harrassed. I recall being in one class where some of the guys (myself not included) taped a substitute teacher's mouth shut with duct tape and locked him in a closet.

Well, now I'm the substitute. Except, unlike some high schoolers, there's no 7th graders who can overpower me enough to pull something like that. So, here I sit, telling the rowdy 7th graders that if they don't stop talking I'll give them a writing assignment or put their name on a list for the teacher to see.

This stinks! I've become the person I always made fun of!

ctb

A Thought

2008-05-12T16:58:00.003-05:00

I'm thinking about writing a book, but I don't know what to write about. I've always wanted to...I think I'm a pretty good writer. It would probably have to be something about youth ministry or christian living because I'm not exactly an expert in anything. I'm opening it up to suggestions. Let me know what you think. Who knows, I could be famous. For the person who gives me the best idea, I'll give an autographed copy! Hmmm. It'll never happen.

ctb

Happy Anniversary!

2008-05-07T11:11:00.002-05:00

At 1:00pm today Vanessa and I will have been married for 3 years. I've gotta tell you, it keeps getting better. I couldn't be happier with anyone else. Vanessa, I love you!

ctb

Presidential Stuff

2008-05-05T00:19:00.005-05:00

I read an email yesterday that contained a speech written by a normal person like you and I. It was a "make believe" speech to be given by President George W. Bush when he quits (not resigns) as president. The jist of the speech was that all of Bush's critics are too ignorant to realize all of the good things that he's accomplished, too spoiled to realize how good they have it, and too stupid to understand that a war on terror can't be won in a few months or a few years.

I'm not stupid - I don't think that Bush is perfect. However, I strongly believe that he has done a fine job with the hand he's been dealt. I also believe, concerning the war, that anyone else placed in his shoes who really cared about America's state and safety would have done many of the same things. Sure, maybe there should have been a better long-term plan, but if you truly consider it with all bias aside, how much can you really plan how a war is going to go?

Another thing I recently heard (I'm not positive it's a 100% accurate but it's interesting nonetheless) is that Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have spent something like $700,000,000 in campaigning - ENOUGH TO COMPLETELY ELIMINATE WORLD HUNGER.

All this has just made me think about how much we really have, as well as how we use what we have. Vanessa and I struggle often with finances, but it doesn't take much looking around to find someone who is in a far worse situation than we are. We are blessed to live in this country - a country where we all think, live, and act like spoiled brats far too often!

May God continue to bless America, even though there's no doubt we don't deserve it! And thank God for our soldiers!

ctb

The REAL Bad News Bears

2008-05-01T23:46:00.005-05:00

At times it seems like we're just so close! One game we play great and lose by a run or two, and the next we have more errors than a Yankee without his steroids. Our church softball team is now 0-6. Last year we won 4 games I think (out of 16)...I thought this year would be much better. It might help if all of our team actually showed up for a game, but who knows. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to complain about the rest of the team cause I'm as bad as anyone! The problem is my mind is much more competitive than my body. Any suggestions?

Answered Prayer

2008-04-30T21:45:00.002-05:00

For those of you who possibly haven't been around our family lately, we've been very stressed about some things that have taken place. At the root of these stresses has been the fact that several weeks ago, my brother, Cale, received notification that he would have to report to infantry training in Fort Benning, GA on May the 18th.

Cale has been out of the army for several years now, but is still under contract. He was told that following 25 days of training in Georgia he would be deployed (presumably to Iraq). Fortunately, though, we've now received word that his need to report has been indefinitely delayed. It is very likely that he could still be called up, but at least for now that is not the case. At least he'll have a little more time to be preparing for it as well.

That being said, there is no doubt that God has answered our prayers. Never underestimate the power of prayer!

ctb

Backed Up

2008-04-27T23:37:00.005-05:00

So, this morning Vanessa and I woke up to a flooded bathroom. CLEAR water was leaking from underneath our toilet. Long story short, I cleaned it up, thought I fixed it, it flooded, cleaned it up, thought I fixed it again, it flooded, cleaned it up...and now I find myself still waiting to find the actual problem. The plumber will be here first thing in the morning (which probably means tomorrow evening by 6 or so).

Anyway, I was inspired to google "toilet quotes." I thought I might be able to find some humor in the situation:

"I found out why cats drink out of the toilet. My mother told me it's because the water is cold in there. Then I thought, 'How does my mother know that?'"

"Today you can go to the gas station and find the cash register open and the toilets locked. They must think toilet paper is worth more than money."

(for the ladies) "You don't want to have to be the man and the woman in a relationship. You always want a man who can fix the toilet!" (right, Vanessa?)"

"European toilet paper is made from the same material Americans use for roofing, which is why Europeans tend to remain standing during soccer matches."

"Men who consistently leave the toilet seat up secretly want women to get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night and fall in."

Ok, so they weren't as humorous as I had hoped. I just wasted 10 minutes of my life looking those up; you just wasted 30 seconds of your life reading them.

ctb

Complaint Free

2008-04-25T14:15:00.003-05:00

For all of you that know Vanessa and I well, you've probably heard us talking about "A Complaint Free World." This is an organization that is trying to change the world by way of positive thinking. You should check it out here: www.acomplaintfreeworld.org.

Anyway, my interest in this program has recently caused me to start noticing all the little things I complain about on a daily basis. I thought I'd share some of what I wanted to complain about in the last 24 hours or so.

I'd like to complain about how crazy windy it is in Oklahoma, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how horrible our softball team is, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how horrible I am at softball, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about all the people that think youth ministers do nothing but play with teenagers, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how much fuel costs and how much of it my truck guzzles, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about all the stuff I have to do and how little time I have to do it, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about the fact that I don't get to play golf as much as I'd like, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how mad I am that my brother could end up going back to Iraq, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how I never get to see my nephew, but I won't.
I'd like to complain about how bad my chili cheese burrito was from Taco Bell, but I won't.

Man, it sure feels good not to complain very much! Do I have to switch wrists for that?

ctb

Why not blog?

2008-04-23T01:58:00.001-05:00

Ok, I'm officially in the 21st century. For years I've been telling myself that I need to start keeping a journal, but I'm lazy and that's just not me. However, I've recently gotten caught up in reading other people's blogs (it's Vanessa's fault - she's hooked too). So I'm starting my own. Why not? I'm too blessed to keep all the blessings in my life to myself and often need an outlet to rant and rave. So, here goes...

ctb