Before we went I felt like I was about to win a 100ft sail boat or a 2 story house on 40 acres of land.
The doc measured the heart beat and and it was really high, which meant it is usually a girl, so the doctor said. So I'm preparing for a girl. She cranked up the sonar and was looking at the baby, which to me looked liked black and white jello with little marshmellows and toothpicks.
Then the doc said she saw something that might mean it's a boy, but wasn't sure. I'm dead calm with no emotions at this time. Then she got a better shot and said it looks like a boy. I'm not celebrating yet. This is just like your team is winning with 2 minutes left on the clock and up by 6 points.
Then she saw something again and she said I think it's a boy. So I asked her what kinda percentage are we looking at, 51%, 75%, or 95%; she said 95%. We'll I start doing the "GET SOME!" dance on the inside, but the way things have been for me lately, that 5% has been like a black hole.
Then she saw the turtle head. BAM! 100% buy the blue cigars!
We're very excited! I'm thinking football jersey, GI Joe, and LEGOs.
The funny thing is for those brief moments of when it was 2 story house on 40 acres I kinda got attached to the idea and I already miss having a little girl. It's funny how things are. But we'll have one one of these days.
I hope everybody is doing good and enjoying the season. Right now I just want to sail as much as possible. I have to hone up my skills to train a new captain:)
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
God's situation or Our situation
Finding out about the inner "man" can be a scary thing. The first thing to keep in mind is that the inner man does not just pop out real easy, so you can get a good look at it, and then tuck back in, out of the way. Usually there has to be a lot of pressure on the outside or on the inside to find out what your inner "man" looks like. And once it pops out you can't tuck it away and forget about it. You have to deal with it, or go into denial in order to forget about it. Well CO and I are walking around inside out. Our weaknesses are exposing each others weaknesses. We are working through it, but it's not easy. The pressure comes from teaching, the house, feeling trapped, bored, and not being able to do what we want to do. It’s probably just like everyone’s pressure, but that fact does not bring relief from the pressure.
We have both decided that teaching is not our thing and it's not worth the trouble we face everyday in telling kids what to do and what not to do, when they only want to do what they want to do - and tend to be placated by their community (comment added by CO). Everybody knows what I'm talking about. It’s a fact of life, but there are good ways and bad ways to deal with it. I have my opinion, but it’s only based on 1.25 years of experience.
Also the fact that dealing with the whole school situation is something we just cannot seem to understand. In the business world we didn’t always agree with the decisions, but we understood where it was trying to go or the motivation behind it. The way the school operates is just beyond my logical thinking. I’m not saying I’m right and they are wrong. I’m saying I don’t understand the way they think, so it seems illogical. Bottom line is-We are just tired of it and we want to be Engineers.
The problem now is getting out of the situation we are in. I would like to stay in the keys, but Christine feels trapped because there is no where to go and nothing to do if your not in the mood to go to the beach or go boating. Even though I love those things, I understand what she is talking about because I even look forward to going to the mainland just to see all the stuff. I also understand the cost of living is through the roof and we have not found a way to make a living other than teaching.
So as of right now we are going to try to get jobs up in North Carolina around Raleigh. Christine has always wanted to go back home, so to speak, and there are a lot of good opportunities up there. I'm looking forward to getting an engineering job again. My arms have improved a lot and I've learned some stretching techniques that help. It will just have to be a trust God thing, which is always really hard, but very rewarding.
We are going to try to sell the house in January and if we sell it before we find jobs then we'll just rent somewhere month to month. We really need to find jobs! The biggest problem is that CO is going to be out of work when she has the baby and will not be getting any money. My salary alone cannot float our situation. So if I get a job offer I might not be able to wait until the end of the year to start. Anyway there are a lot of scenarios that are going to making 2007 very interesting for the Ray team.
When I realized that we needed to move, I was really sad and angry, because I love this place so much. How much I love this place, has been a problem for me ever since I got down here. I was hoping and praying so hard for CO to fall in love with this place, that I was not paying attention to her feelings and it led us to buy this house, which may turn out to be the biggest mistake we have ever made.
My desire to go sailing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and just being on and in the water has nearly driven me into a permanent state of discontentment. I could spend all day on the water and be mad the next day that I wasn't on the water. I wasn't happy unless I was on the water. I realized that isn't healthy and my feelings were so strong it was borderline psychotic. I'm pretty sure it was taking God's place as the center of my life. I don't want that, so I think if we move away at least I won't have that problem and I can focus my attention on CO and the baby.
It is also a great exercise in my faith and love for God. I know if I seek him first then I will be satisfied no matter where I am or what I'm doing. It's only when my focus falls off away from Jesus that my dissatisfaction swells up within me. I also realize if we never live in place like this again, this place being a place I love this much, then it's not a big deal because the place where I'm going to spend eternity is 1,000,000 times better and that makes me happy.
We have both decided that teaching is not our thing and it's not worth the trouble we face everyday in telling kids what to do and what not to do, when they only want to do what they want to do - and tend to be placated by their community (comment added by CO). Everybody knows what I'm talking about. It’s a fact of life, but there are good ways and bad ways to deal with it. I have my opinion, but it’s only based on 1.25 years of experience.
Also the fact that dealing with the whole school situation is something we just cannot seem to understand. In the business world we didn’t always agree with the decisions, but we understood where it was trying to go or the motivation behind it. The way the school operates is just beyond my logical thinking. I’m not saying I’m right and they are wrong. I’m saying I don’t understand the way they think, so it seems illogical. Bottom line is-We are just tired of it and we want to be Engineers.
The problem now is getting out of the situation we are in. I would like to stay in the keys, but Christine feels trapped because there is no where to go and nothing to do if your not in the mood to go to the beach or go boating. Even though I love those things, I understand what she is talking about because I even look forward to going to the mainland just to see all the stuff. I also understand the cost of living is through the roof and we have not found a way to make a living other than teaching.
So as of right now we are going to try to get jobs up in North Carolina around Raleigh. Christine has always wanted to go back home, so to speak, and there are a lot of good opportunities up there. I'm looking forward to getting an engineering job again. My arms have improved a lot and I've learned some stretching techniques that help. It will just have to be a trust God thing, which is always really hard, but very rewarding.
We are going to try to sell the house in January and if we sell it before we find jobs then we'll just rent somewhere month to month. We really need to find jobs! The biggest problem is that CO is going to be out of work when she has the baby and will not be getting any money. My salary alone cannot float our situation. So if I get a job offer I might not be able to wait until the end of the year to start. Anyway there are a lot of scenarios that are going to making 2007 very interesting for the Ray team.
When I realized that we needed to move, I was really sad and angry, because I love this place so much. How much I love this place, has been a problem for me ever since I got down here. I was hoping and praying so hard for CO to fall in love with this place, that I was not paying attention to her feelings and it led us to buy this house, which may turn out to be the biggest mistake we have ever made.
My desire to go sailing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and just being on and in the water has nearly driven me into a permanent state of discontentment. I could spend all day on the water and be mad the next day that I wasn't on the water. I wasn't happy unless I was on the water. I realized that isn't healthy and my feelings were so strong it was borderline psychotic. I'm pretty sure it was taking God's place as the center of my life. I don't want that, so I think if we move away at least I won't have that problem and I can focus my attention on CO and the baby.
It is also a great exercise in my faith and love for God. I know if I seek him first then I will be satisfied no matter where I am or what I'm doing. It's only when my focus falls off away from Jesus that my dissatisfaction swells up within me. I also realize if we never live in place like this again, this place being a place I love this much, then it's not a big deal because the place where I'm going to spend eternity is 1,000,000 times better and that makes me happy.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
premature wisdom for my soul
i (this is christine here) wrote this string of thoughts about two and a half years ago - what i was in such deep thought about i have no idea, but i pull this up every once in awhile and am truly amazed at my insight. this post has been relevent to me over and over again - and in the throes of my unsettling circumstances and times of real struggle with myself, i am jealous for this kind of strength of mind. so - enjoy, it may appeal to you as well.
What do I say when the Lord strikes me down with the almost paralyzing realities that the ones I love will never be enough, or that I will always be a disappointment to someone, or that no one will love and pursue me like Jesus, or that heaven is within sight but not yet a place I can dwell in, or that life is just plain unfair, people are mean, days come and go uneventfully at times, people I love will get hurt, those I love will die…unsaved, and some of my dreams will never be fulfilled in this lifetime – at least not the way I imagined. What do I say to these things? Praise be to God Almighty, who created the heavens and the earth, who has been to the past and the future and has carefully fulfilled his plan for the redemption of his people – in His time. I fall down and worship the most powerful Being who brings the destruction and blessings upon this earth for reasons I cannot understand.
What do I say when I am brought to tears by my brokenness? As my tears fall on me, I kneel before the throne of God, thanking him for his relentless pursuit of my heart. As the ache within me resonates through my weak body, I feel the hand of God on me, loving me in a strange yet awesome way. A love that hurts, a love that reveals true life, a love that brings me out of myself, a love that binds me even more to Christ, and a love that never ceases.
And then, I look out one morning on a sky that is so majestic it’s as if God himself crowned the dawn with a crown of fire blazing on the horizon, emanating through the trees and fields and rivers with colors no one has yet given a name to. And as I embrace this beauty that God created for his glory, my eyes well up with tears of joy at the overwhelming truth that I was created for that same glory. And not only that, but that this beauty that takes my breath away is but a taste of heaven – and eternity seems more than a vague notion, it is the reality of the hope I am banking my whole life upon.
And in this brief moment, I see the importance of the journey. I see how the hurt and difficulties I experience are developing me into a daughter of God. I feel more a part of the Kingdom that I live for. The world fades a hint more in my weak eyes, and the voice of my Jesus that whispers to me becomes louder than ever before.
What do I say when the Lord strikes me down with the almost paralyzing realities that the ones I love will never be enough, or that I will always be a disappointment to someone, or that no one will love and pursue me like Jesus, or that heaven is within sight but not yet a place I can dwell in, or that life is just plain unfair, people are mean, days come and go uneventfully at times, people I love will get hurt, those I love will die…unsaved, and some of my dreams will never be fulfilled in this lifetime – at least not the way I imagined. What do I say to these things? Praise be to God Almighty, who created the heavens and the earth, who has been to the past and the future and has carefully fulfilled his plan for the redemption of his people – in His time. I fall down and worship the most powerful Being who brings the destruction and blessings upon this earth for reasons I cannot understand.
What do I say when I am brought to tears by my brokenness? As my tears fall on me, I kneel before the throne of God, thanking him for his relentless pursuit of my heart. As the ache within me resonates through my weak body, I feel the hand of God on me, loving me in a strange yet awesome way. A love that hurts, a love that reveals true life, a love that brings me out of myself, a love that binds me even more to Christ, and a love that never ceases.
And then, I look out one morning on a sky that is so majestic it’s as if God himself crowned the dawn with a crown of fire blazing on the horizon, emanating through the trees and fields and rivers with colors no one has yet given a name to. And as I embrace this beauty that God created for his glory, my eyes well up with tears of joy at the overwhelming truth that I was created for that same glory. And not only that, but that this beauty that takes my breath away is but a taste of heaven – and eternity seems more than a vague notion, it is the reality of the hope I am banking my whole life upon.
And in this brief moment, I see the importance of the journey. I see how the hurt and difficulties I experience are developing me into a daughter of God. I feel more a part of the Kingdom that I live for. The world fades a hint more in my weak eyes, and the voice of my Jesus that whispers to me becomes louder than ever before.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Can you say BABY !?!?
Hello Baby Ray!! That's him or her sucking thumb and just hanging out .
We are both really excited and kinda nervous as to how this whole thing is going to work out. Once we learn how to trust God with our situation, He adds a little more to the kitty.
This addition will be a happy burden though.
I hope all is well for everybody, and I look forward to sharing this whole deal with you in the future.
Monday, September 04, 2006
5 days off, 2 days on, 3 days off
We ended up getting Weds free of kids too. It was nice. Then we had a 3 day weekend for labor day, but the weather has been a little cloudy and wet. Which has bumbed me out a little because I'm in the mood for some sun and fun. I did manage to go out on the boat for a little on both days, but not long enough to satisfy the itch.
CO went up to New York for a cousins wedding this weekend. She is enjoying the break from the keys. So this was my chance to go out on the sailboat for a couple of days. The weather and the fact that my motor still isn't fixed kind of slammed the door on that whole deal. There are too many stories down here of people wrecking boats or never being seen again to push a bad situation. I guess I'm finally growing up :(
Before CO left she gave me permission to buy a Hawaiian sling. It's a 7" long round piece of wood with a whole down the center and a rubber band tied to it. It's basically a sling shot for a steel spear. I stick the steel shaft through the whole and put the end of it in the pocket of the band and pull it back, point at a fish and let her go. The 3 barbed tip on the other end hopefully sticks in the fish. If it sounds fun, you understand what I'm trying to say. If you don't think it sounds fun, then you need to wait for the picture, I didn't explain it in a way you can understand.
The past 2 days I've been shooting fish. I haven't shot any keepers yet, but I sure am having fun practicing on the small ones. I have to be careful at the size of fish I shoot, because the spear isn't attached to the sling, so the fish could swim off with my so called bullet. I know this; but that didn't stop me from shooting a 20" jack yesterday. I hit him square in the side, but he was a little out of range to stick solid. So he darted off with my spear stuck in his side. Lucky for me he turned a little and the spear hit the bottom and it was knocked out of him. I'm going to have to rig up a way to attach the spear to the piece of wood with a line or something.
The thought of a fish pulling me around in the water makes me laugh a little and I wonder if I have enough sense not to shoot a big fish or enough sense to let go when I run out of air.
Yesterday I saw a 3-4 foot wide sting ray sitting on the bottom, next to a ledge where I was "hunting". The first thing that went through my mind was to shoot it. I didn't because of the mean factor, loose my spear factor, and this thing might attack me factor. So I left it alone, but later on I almost swam into it while chasing a fish. So I decided it needs to find another place. It's tail seemed to be 7-9' long, but seeing how things are bigger under water, who knows? I really wasn't sure how I would scare this thing off without it getting offended and then offensive.
I knew the tail was the dangerous end, so I came up behind it and poked the very end of it with the tip of the spear. It swam off in a cloud a smoke. I felt kinda stupid being so cautious about something so simple. Everybody says they won't hurt you.
Well this morning I just found out that the crocodile hunter was killed in a "freak" attack by a sting ray. SO! Now who feels stupid? Not to be mean or nothing, but I'm scared to death of all these water animals, because it seems like all of them have a tendency to freak out. Everybody down here thinks I over react to the big animals that have a tendancy to freak out and hurt people.
The other day I was out with some fellow teachers getting lobster and there is a 4 foot nurse shark hanging out with us. Everybody is treating it like some harmless clown fish, but it's bothering me, A LOT! I'm trying not to act like a panzy, but I just make sure everybody is aware that there is A SHARK! swimming around with us. Everybody knows and is completely not bothered by it.
So... I get on with my lobster hunting, just trying to block out the fact and definitely not send any electrical fear signals to prompt the harmless shark to FREAK OUT on me. So I'm looking under this coral head trying to get a lobster out and just look to the right for a second and sure enough, this STUPID shark is about 6" from my face, looking at me.
I jerked backyards and blanked out with a rush of horror, while pushing him away out of pure reaction. He swam away and I went up for some much needed air. That's enough! I'm going back to the boat.
John Moeller, an old salt, was sitting on the boat drinking a beer. He had no sympathy or understanding to my uneasiness. John said the shark was waiting to eat the lobster that I was going to pull out. Did it not dawn on John that the lobster the shark wanted to eat would be in MY HAND! ... This isn't Sea World! Nothing in here is trained not to hurt me.
So I sat there and acted like I was just going chill out and wait for the next spot we were going to go to.
CO almost will not get in the water anymore because of all the big fish we see. I don't blame her, it's just absolutely nerve racking to me too. But there is a little adrenaline that pumps through my system that kinda keeps sucking me in the water.
No fear ... No fun.
CO went up to New York for a cousins wedding this weekend. She is enjoying the break from the keys. So this was my chance to go out on the sailboat for a couple of days. The weather and the fact that my motor still isn't fixed kind of slammed the door on that whole deal. There are too many stories down here of people wrecking boats or never being seen again to push a bad situation. I guess I'm finally growing up :(
Before CO left she gave me permission to buy a Hawaiian sling. It's a 7" long round piece of wood with a whole down the center and a rubber band tied to it. It's basically a sling shot for a steel spear. I stick the steel shaft through the whole and put the end of it in the pocket of the band and pull it back, point at a fish and let her go. The 3 barbed tip on the other end hopefully sticks in the fish. If it sounds fun, you understand what I'm trying to say. If you don't think it sounds fun, then you need to wait for the picture, I didn't explain it in a way you can understand.
The past 2 days I've been shooting fish. I haven't shot any keepers yet, but I sure am having fun practicing on the small ones. I have to be careful at the size of fish I shoot, because the spear isn't attached to the sling, so the fish could swim off with my so called bullet. I know this; but that didn't stop me from shooting a 20" jack yesterday. I hit him square in the side, but he was a little out of range to stick solid. So he darted off with my spear stuck in his side. Lucky for me he turned a little and the spear hit the bottom and it was knocked out of him. I'm going to have to rig up a way to attach the spear to the piece of wood with a line or something.
The thought of a fish pulling me around in the water makes me laugh a little and I wonder if I have enough sense not to shoot a big fish or enough sense to let go when I run out of air.
Yesterday I saw a 3-4 foot wide sting ray sitting on the bottom, next to a ledge where I was "hunting". The first thing that went through my mind was to shoot it. I didn't because of the mean factor, loose my spear factor, and this thing might attack me factor. So I left it alone, but later on I almost swam into it while chasing a fish. So I decided it needs to find another place. It's tail seemed to be 7-9' long, but seeing how things are bigger under water, who knows? I really wasn't sure how I would scare this thing off without it getting offended and then offensive.
I knew the tail was the dangerous end, so I came up behind it and poked the very end of it with the tip of the spear. It swam off in a cloud a smoke. I felt kinda stupid being so cautious about something so simple. Everybody says they won't hurt you.
Well this morning I just found out that the crocodile hunter was killed in a "freak" attack by a sting ray. SO! Now who feels stupid? Not to be mean or nothing, but I'm scared to death of all these water animals, because it seems like all of them have a tendency to freak out. Everybody down here thinks I over react to the big animals that have a tendancy to freak out and hurt people.
The other day I was out with some fellow teachers getting lobster and there is a 4 foot nurse shark hanging out with us. Everybody is treating it like some harmless clown fish, but it's bothering me, A LOT! I'm trying not to act like a panzy, but I just make sure everybody is aware that there is A SHARK! swimming around with us. Everybody knows and is completely not bothered by it.
So... I get on with my lobster hunting, just trying to block out the fact and definitely not send any electrical fear signals to prompt the harmless shark to FREAK OUT on me. So I'm looking under this coral head trying to get a lobster out and just look to the right for a second and sure enough, this STUPID shark is about 6" from my face, looking at me.
I jerked backyards and blanked out with a rush of horror, while pushing him away out of pure reaction. He swam away and I went up for some much needed air. That's enough! I'm going back to the boat.
John Moeller, an old salt, was sitting on the boat drinking a beer. He had no sympathy or understanding to my uneasiness. John said the shark was waiting to eat the lobster that I was going to pull out. Did it not dawn on John that the lobster the shark wanted to eat would be in MY HAND! ... This isn't Sea World! Nothing in here is trained not to hurt me.
So I sat there and acted like I was just going chill out and wait for the next spot we were going to go to.
CO almost will not get in the water anymore because of all the big fish we see. I don't blame her, it's just absolutely nerve racking to me too. But there is a little adrenaline that pumps through my system that kinda keeps sucking me in the water.
No fear ... No fun.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
I love hurricane days
Baton down the hatches! Well we are having our 1st hurricane day. It's nice. Monday the teachers had to go in for a couple of hours to make sure everything was ready for the possible hurricane. Any day with out kids is a holiday for me. Then I spent the rest of the afternoon putting up the storm shutters on the house and making sure nothing was loose around the house.
Today has been real easy. Earlier I was sitting on the porch and a little breeze kicked up with a lot of water, but not enough to drive me off the porch. I'm on the porch right now typing on the computer with the rain coming down at a comfortable rate. I'm getting paid to sit on my porch on a nice rainy afternoon. This job has it's perks.
We think we will go back tomorrow, but we are wondering about all the people that evacuated. They won't be back yet, so we are kinda hoping there could be an outside chance we will get Wednesday off too. I'll be surprised, because there isn't anything to this storm. Yet.. :)
CO has been spending this time resting which is good, and I'm about rested out of my mind. I'll probably go down by the bridge later and try to get some photo's of the churning ocean.
Today has been real easy. Earlier I was sitting on the porch and a little breeze kicked up with a lot of water, but not enough to drive me off the porch. I'm on the porch right now typing on the computer with the rain coming down at a comfortable rate. I'm getting paid to sit on my porch on a nice rainy afternoon. This job has it's perks.
We think we will go back tomorrow, but we are wondering about all the people that evacuated. They won't be back yet, so we are kinda hoping there could be an outside chance we will get Wednesday off too. I'll be surprised, because there isn't anything to this storm. Yet.. :)
CO has been spending this time resting which is good, and I'm about rested out of my mind. I'll probably go down by the bridge later and try to get some photo's of the churning ocean.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
things are interestingly good
School started up last week and so far it's gone rather smoothly. My kids have the potential to be wacko, but I've been picking off the trouble makers as they show up on radar. So far I've made a girl cry and gave a real trouble maker a nervous breakdown because he saw his chances of graduating from high school crumble in the 2nd day after he challenged one of my decisions.
I was a complete wreck days before school, because of the anxiety of all the confrontations I was going to have. I finally had to just give the whole thing to God and just trust that he would provide the best words to say during an explosive situation. It's really helped, but I have to make myself not think about it and just trust God. It's tough.
Christine has a tough schedule because she has to move to another room twice every day. Don't forget that she is a science teacher and conducts labs. She still has not figured out what she is going to do on those days. She is also in a 9th grade academy that has only about 120 students out of about 450. This is the 1st year the county is doing it so they have to meet twice a day to figure out what works and what does not. She's tired a lot, but we are hoping that will change after a while once we get use to working again. I think she is doing great given the circumstances.
My sailboat broke it's center board, which took about a week to fix. Then my motor broke which still isn't fixed because I'm waiting on a part. We did go sailing with Kristin a week before school started. It went very well. We sailed out in the back country without the motor so I was kinda nervous when the wind died down. Eventually, a storm started rolling in so we had plenty of wind to get back to the landing.
I didn't work all summer, which was strange. I learned that no matter how much I indulge myself in the things I want to do, I'm never satisfied. Sailing all day, just makes me want to sail all the next day. Snorkling, diving and just buzzing around in the boat, just makes me want to do more of it. So believe it or not, I struggled with being content and enjoying the summer because I always wanted more.
It was a great reminder of how God is the only thing that can satisfy my needs. He is the only thing that can fill the emptiness in me. And He does it so fast and complete when you truly and earnestly seek Him. This summer I was reminded that only God is my joy and peace. He gave me all that and a tan to go along with it.
I was a complete wreck days before school, because of the anxiety of all the confrontations I was going to have. I finally had to just give the whole thing to God and just trust that he would provide the best words to say during an explosive situation. It's really helped, but I have to make myself not think about it and just trust God. It's tough.
Christine has a tough schedule because she has to move to another room twice every day. Don't forget that she is a science teacher and conducts labs. She still has not figured out what she is going to do on those days. She is also in a 9th grade academy that has only about 120 students out of about 450. This is the 1st year the county is doing it so they have to meet twice a day to figure out what works and what does not. She's tired a lot, but we are hoping that will change after a while once we get use to working again. I think she is doing great given the circumstances.
My sailboat broke it's center board, which took about a week to fix. Then my motor broke which still isn't fixed because I'm waiting on a part. We did go sailing with Kristin a week before school started. It went very well. We sailed out in the back country without the motor so I was kinda nervous when the wind died down. Eventually, a storm started rolling in so we had plenty of wind to get back to the landing.
I didn't work all summer, which was strange. I learned that no matter how much I indulge myself in the things I want to do, I'm never satisfied. Sailing all day, just makes me want to sail all the next day. Snorkling, diving and just buzzing around in the boat, just makes me want to do more of it. So believe it or not, I struggled with being content and enjoying the summer because I always wanted more.
It was a great reminder of how God is the only thing that can satisfy my needs. He is the only thing that can fill the emptiness in me. And He does it so fast and complete when you truly and earnestly seek Him. This summer I was reminded that only God is my joy and peace. He gave me all that and a tan to go along with it.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Happy Freedom day
We have been practicing retirement for the last few weeks and it's been good, bad and ugly. I've got more projects and stuff I want to do than I can shake a stick out.
Here is a list of some stuff that has gone on in the last month.
-built an outdoor shower. I built a cheap version, then spent more $ and built it the correct way, after being disgusted with the look and performance. No walls yet for the naked factor, but it's nice to wash off after beaching or working and the house.
-built a work station/desk for me in our closet, kinda cool.
-working on the sailboat, a lot. trying to rig it up for anything that might could happen on the open sea.
-started a new sailing blog, you'll see the link on the right side of the page.
-Jack our rabbit died a couple of days ago. we're sad, he made us laugh.
-We went to St. Augustine for a week and afterward Christine went on to Moultrie, Augusta, and Raliegh. I wanted to go to, but I really wanted to go sailing and look into a job, which didn't happen. I miss seeing everybody, but I would have been miserable between visits, thinking about the house and the boats.
-built support for the vines growing in the back for the vine room we have planned.
-I'm having having a real hard time with anxiety from school starting back and it's causing me to really have a more dependant relationship with God. Which has been tough because everytime I pray my mind kicks over to the horror of school. So it's just tough. CO is really helping me through it, she has been great.
I'm sure there is more, but I want to go play. I hope everybody enjoys their day to remember the freedom our fathers bought for us, the freedom we are trying to give others in the world, and more important than both of those put together. The freedom from sin and death that Jesus Christ bought for us with his suffering and sacrifice.
..."If you abide in my word, you are truely my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
I believe Jesus is the King in the Kingdom of Truth and that kingdom is built on God's Love, Wisdom, and Power. Think on those characteristics of God and nothing can keep you in bondage.
Here is a list of some stuff that has gone on in the last month.
-built an outdoor shower. I built a cheap version, then spent more $ and built it the correct way, after being disgusted with the look and performance. No walls yet for the naked factor, but it's nice to wash off after beaching or working and the house.
-built a work station/desk for me in our closet, kinda cool.
-working on the sailboat, a lot. trying to rig it up for anything that might could happen on the open sea.
-started a new sailing blog, you'll see the link on the right side of the page.
-Jack our rabbit died a couple of days ago. we're sad, he made us laugh.
-We went to St. Augustine for a week and afterward Christine went on to Moultrie, Augusta, and Raliegh. I wanted to go to, but I really wanted to go sailing and look into a job, which didn't happen. I miss seeing everybody, but I would have been miserable between visits, thinking about the house and the boats.
-built support for the vines growing in the back for the vine room we have planned.
-I'm having having a real hard time with anxiety from school starting back and it's causing me to really have a more dependant relationship with God. Which has been tough because everytime I pray my mind kicks over to the horror of school. So it's just tough. CO is really helping me through it, she has been great.
I'm sure there is more, but I want to go play. I hope everybody enjoys their day to remember the freedom our fathers bought for us, the freedom we are trying to give others in the world, and more important than both of those put together. The freedom from sin and death that Jesus Christ bought for us with his suffering and sacrifice.
..."If you abide in my word, you are truely my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
I believe Jesus is the King in the Kingdom of Truth and that kingdom is built on God's Love, Wisdom, and Power. Think on those characteristics of God and nothing can keep you in bondage.
Monday, May 29, 2006
discovery
I just found a recording that I recorded last year.
It is rough and boring, but really shook me to the core because I had completely forgotten I had ever recorded it. I'm going to try to upload it in its original recording, but I'll use the phone if I got to in order to get it here. This one recording is the one reason why I started blogging in the first place.
I wanted to track our course through this really weird time of trust and growth in our relationship with God. So consider this the first entry in Love Wisdom Power. The recording is about 11 min so I had to break it into 3 recordigns due to time limits per phone recording.
1st of 3
2nd of 3
3rd of 3
I'm sorry for the bad recording and lack of direction, but its Raw; so that is what you get.
It is rough and boring, but really shook me to the core because I had completely forgotten I had ever recorded it. I'm going to try to upload it in its original recording, but I'll use the phone if I got to in order to get it here. This one recording is the one reason why I started blogging in the first place.
I wanted to track our course through this really weird time of trust and growth in our relationship with God. So consider this the first entry in Love Wisdom Power. The recording is about 11 min so I had to break it into 3 recordigns due to time limits per phone recording.
1st of 3
2nd of 3
3rd of 3
I'm sorry for the bad recording and lack of direction, but its Raw; so that is what you get.
Friday, May 26, 2006
from the musings of christine
well - i am sitting here watching my students take my final exam. it is an exciting feeling knowing that this year is almost over. i can taste it. and then, when i look back to the shaky beginnings, it makes me realize how much i have learned. a friend told me just yesterday that we should always try things that make us uncomfortable every once in a while. at first i cringed when she said that, thinking about all the fitful nights of sleep, the horrible rides home, the voices of whiny students, crazy parents, etc...and then i thought about how i have become a lot more creative at "going with the flow". engineers do not do this. period. and about how i have learned to laugh when i say the wrong things in class, and have realized how impacting my words may be - even when i thought them somewhat meaningless at the time. and patience. i pray for patience. i can see how my "inner peace" affects those around me in a greater way than ever before. i have learned that i cannot be everything to everyone. i am loosening up when it comes to life in general. it will be ok if my pants aren't always ironed or my hair fixed or my bathrooms clean. and i am tightening up when it comes to spiritual discipline. or at least i am praying for more discipline and i see the need for it more clearly. my point is, when life puts the squeeze on you, you realize what is important. and that has been very strengthening and liberating for me, and i am still learning.
so - in the midst of paper airplanes, ipods, gossip, fights, drama, and other such life-sucking activities, i have been learning how to dwell in chaos, to remain calm and patient when all i hear is complaints, and to remember that i am to be a rock in this ocean of high school life. and that means getting tough - no means no. my rules are not merely talking points for a discussion. i try to float above and not be sucked into the undertow of it all. and if nothing seems to go right, there is always tomorrow.
so - i am expecting a stronger, more confident teacher to show up in August. for now, i think i am very ready to toss aside the lesson plans and textbooks for a couple months. rest, rejuvenation, and reflection are what i am looking forward to. With that, i bid the 2005/06 school year a hearty "adieu", and for the students i will use the words of my mother, "y'all skedaddle so i can get somethin' done, you hear?" :)
so - in the midst of paper airplanes, ipods, gossip, fights, drama, and other such life-sucking activities, i have been learning how to dwell in chaos, to remain calm and patient when all i hear is complaints, and to remember that i am to be a rock in this ocean of high school life. and that means getting tough - no means no. my rules are not merely talking points for a discussion. i try to float above and not be sucked into the undertow of it all. and if nothing seems to go right, there is always tomorrow.
so - i am expecting a stronger, more confident teacher to show up in August. for now, i think i am very ready to toss aside the lesson plans and textbooks for a couple months. rest, rejuvenation, and reflection are what i am looking forward to. With that, i bid the 2005/06 school year a hearty "adieu", and for the students i will use the words of my mother, "y'all skedaddle so i can get somethin' done, you hear?" :)
Thursday, May 25, 2006
R&R Racing
R&R Racing history
R&R Racing has been my company for a long time now. It was created during a period where my records and thoughts were recorded on paper. Those original papers did not survive the nomadic life style I had during my 20's. Also the years of converting from paper to digital has resulted in the loss of precious records that held the secrets to the development of my way of thinking, which was encompassed in "R&R Racing". I regret the loss of those records for my wife, because it could have helped her try to make sense out of my strange life style. Then again I'm relieved those records are lost, because they may very well pin point the degree of insanity I try to hide daily.
Original purpose
R&R Racing original stood for "Rock & Roll Racing". 'Rock' stood for it's tough, simple, and solid mission in life. 'Roll' stood for the constant movement forward towards the goal of the mission. Continue to move foraward no matter what the terrain or route. 'Racing' stood for the awareness of winners and losers. A sense of purpose to win at everything, no points for second place, always striving to get what you want, always. (corny, simple, to the point, but true)
The purpose of the company was to gain the skills and experience to provide consulting work for those who wanted to win at whatever they were doing. The slogan was:
I know all this sounds either cliché, extreme, or even stupid, but that was the way I thought about things. Believe it or not, I hate talking about myself. So I developed a company to work for that had a purpose, which described how I felt about life.
The new and improved R&R Racing.
The name now stands for Ray & Ray Racing. My wife and I are in a race, like Paul describes in 1 Cor. 9:24. We use to run the race individually, but now it's more like a 3 legged race. We will finish the race together.
Our thirst for the truth about God and His relationship with us, is the purpose of the new and improved R&R Racing. The company still holds onto the original characteristics. But they are now complimented by love, faith, hope, compassion, grace, concern, humility, trust, and all the great qualities that woman have in abundance over men, generally speaking.
So from now on the authorship of this Blog belongs to the R&R Racing Company.
If it's ok with the other half of the company.
R&R Racing has been my company for a long time now. It was created during a period where my records and thoughts were recorded on paper. Those original papers did not survive the nomadic life style I had during my 20's. Also the years of converting from paper to digital has resulted in the loss of precious records that held the secrets to the development of my way of thinking, which was encompassed in "R&R Racing". I regret the loss of those records for my wife, because it could have helped her try to make sense out of my strange life style. Then again I'm relieved those records are lost, because they may very well pin point the degree of insanity I try to hide daily.
Original purpose
R&R Racing original stood for "Rock & Roll Racing". 'Rock' stood for it's tough, simple, and solid mission in life. 'Roll' stood for the constant movement forward towards the goal of the mission. Continue to move foraward no matter what the terrain or route. 'Racing' stood for the awareness of winners and losers. A sense of purpose to win at everything, no points for second place, always striving to get what you want, always. (corny, simple, to the point, but true)
The purpose of the company was to gain the skills and experience to provide consulting work for those who wanted to win at whatever they were doing. The slogan was:
"For those who thirst for first"
The consultants would simply apply the lessons they have learned, while racing through life, to the client's situation. Hopefully the end result would increase the client’s chances of winning "the next race", whatever that might be. I know all this sounds either cliché, extreme, or even stupid, but that was the way I thought about things. Believe it or not, I hate talking about myself. So I developed a company to work for that had a purpose, which described how I felt about life.
The new and improved R&R Racing.
The name now stands for Ray & Ray Racing. My wife and I are in a race, like Paul describes in 1 Cor. 9:24. We use to run the race individually, but now it's more like a 3 legged race. We will finish the race together.
Our thirst for the truth about God and His relationship with us, is the purpose of the new and improved R&R Racing. The company still holds onto the original characteristics. But they are now complimented by love, faith, hope, compassion, grace, concern, humility, trust, and all the great qualities that woman have in abundance over men, generally speaking.
So from now on the authorship of this Blog belongs to the R&R Racing Company.
If it's ok with the other half of the company.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
LAST DAY and FIRST DAY
This is the last day for the seniors, which makes up 4 out of 5 of my classes.
In reflection, the year has been a draw. I feel like I lost the classroom control battle, but I have gained the experience to put next year's battle in my favor to win!
NOW for the AWESOME news of the FIRST DAY.
We are the proud owners of an 18' sail boat! The mast is taller than our house! It's built for speed and comfort.
It's a 1977 Chrysler buccaneer. It's a very popular racing boat, that is also a casual day boat for the family. It can hold 6 people. It came with a trailer and is only 500 lbs, so it's very easy to move around.
I traded our 2 kayaks for the boat, trailer, 1.2 HP motor and some new rigging that came in a dry box. It's a little dirty, because it's not been used in a year, but it's in good shape.
I'll show 'before and after' clean up pictures when I get the after ones. I'm so excited I can barely think about it. I just hope Christine falls in love with sailing now. Below is a page I downloaded from the internet. They still make this boat and it goes for about $12,000 bucks new.
In reflection, the year has been a draw. I feel like I lost the classroom control battle, but I have gained the experience to put next year's battle in my favor to win!
NOW for the AWESOME news of the FIRST DAY.
We are the proud owners of an 18' sail boat! The mast is taller than our house! It's built for speed and comfort.
It's a 1977 Chrysler buccaneer. It's a very popular racing boat, that is also a casual day boat for the family. It can hold 6 people. It came with a trailer and is only 500 lbs, so it's very easy to move around.
I traded our 2 kayaks for the boat, trailer, 1.2 HP motor and some new rigging that came in a dry box. It's a little dirty, because it's not been used in a year, but it's in good shape.
I'll show 'before and after' clean up pictures when I get the after ones. I'm so excited I can barely think about it. I just hope Christine falls in love with sailing now. Below is a page I downloaded from the internet. They still make this boat and it goes for about $12,000 bucks new.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Timing is everything.
I was thinking the other day about our situation down here and it turned comical. So I’ll share.
1 The year we move to the keys just so happens to be the worst year in history for hurricanes in the keys.
2 When we need to drive 30 miles to work everyday the gas prices are at an all tine high and it is the first time we have ever lived in a place where the gas is WAY above the National Average.
3 Our first house was purchased at the all time high for property and homes in the keys. It’s still going down.
4 The first time in my life I have ever wanted to plant anything and now that I’m trying to grow 9 palm trees and 5 Hawaiian vines, the keys are experiencing the worst drought in history. Normal is 10.35” we are at 0.72”. I used to have 6 Hawaiian vines.
5 I always thought it would be cool to work at a place that really understands the benefits of technology. My job just gave me a really NICE Tablet PC, which is great! But I really don’t like my job.
6 It’s the first year for house insurance for us and the insurance company is talking about raising the rates from $2,000 to $8,000 in some cases.
7 Last but not least. I finally invest in the future with nanotechnology and I lose 20% of the investment in 2 months. I literally bought at the peak of a 5 year history. I knew it would be a rough ride at first, but that’s a 10ft. cliff before you even crank up the motor.
That’s all I can remember this morning. I’m sure everybody has similar situations in their life and as soon as you learn how to laugh at them, the better off you’ll be.
We did protest the gas prices yesterday!
I vaguely remember an email that suggested if everybody just runs out of gas on May 12th and sits on the side of the road in protest, it would get everybody’s attention. If half the people in the U.S. did it, all commerce would stop and gas companies would get hit HARD.
I think I’m the only one who didn’t chicken out.
All well, I tried. Until people get serious about it nothing is going to change.
That is about it. School is about over and hurricane season is about here. Please pray that both of us can draw closer to God in a peaceful time of no stress or conflict with insane teenagers.
1 The year we move to the keys just so happens to be the worst year in history for hurricanes in the keys.
2 When we need to drive 30 miles to work everyday the gas prices are at an all tine high and it is the first time we have ever lived in a place where the gas is WAY above the National Average.
3 Our first house was purchased at the all time high for property and homes in the keys. It’s still going down.
4 The first time in my life I have ever wanted to plant anything and now that I’m trying to grow 9 palm trees and 5 Hawaiian vines, the keys are experiencing the worst drought in history. Normal is 10.35” we are at 0.72”. I used to have 6 Hawaiian vines.
5 I always thought it would be cool to work at a place that really understands the benefits of technology. My job just gave me a really NICE Tablet PC, which is great! But I really don’t like my job.
6 It’s the first year for house insurance for us and the insurance company is talking about raising the rates from $2,000 to $8,000 in some cases.
7 Last but not least. I finally invest in the future with nanotechnology and I lose 20% of the investment in 2 months. I literally bought at the peak of a 5 year history. I knew it would be a rough ride at first, but that’s a 10ft. cliff before you even crank up the motor.
That’s all I can remember this morning. I’m sure everybody has similar situations in their life and as soon as you learn how to laugh at them, the better off you’ll be.
We did protest the gas prices yesterday!
I vaguely remember an email that suggested if everybody just runs out of gas on May 12th and sits on the side of the road in protest, it would get everybody’s attention. If half the people in the U.S. did it, all commerce would stop and gas companies would get hit HARD.
I think I’m the only one who didn’t chicken out.
All well, I tried. Until people get serious about it nothing is going to change.
That is about it. School is about over and hurricane season is about here. Please pray that both of us can draw closer to God in a peaceful time of no stress or conflict with insane teenagers.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
slip 'n slide
this is christine. most likely a distant remembrance of postings past will be recalled at my name...i haven't written much.
i have been trudging through this school year, feeling much like a failure and very much broken and bruised from all my attempts at relinquishing comfort during a time filled with nothing of the like. and from having to fight lies in my head over and over again. and from learning (over and over and over...) the disciplines i need in order to survive down here. i am very aware of the fact that Satan is confident in all he has accomplished down here, and we are in a foreign territory that requires all the armor we have, every day.
so i come to this post today weary, tired, longing for a time of peace and comfort, rest and ease. and i also hate the fact that comfort is what i long for. not to bring Christ to all these people, not to be a great teacher, not to love, give, and share...i long for rest. i want familiarity. i want to let my guard down for just a few days without being almost swallowed whole with lies and deception.
so - at the moment, my life is like a slip 'n slide...i am always falling, slipping, and banging myself up...my journey not as firm as i would like it. i have seen my weakness and selfishness so often and in such ugly measures that i can just about lose it if i were to dwell on it. (and now i will actually have written proof of a bit of it)
so - no positive post today. just a few rantings of someone walking a lonely and hard road, knowing -yet at times forgetting -just how absolutely worth it this road will be, and how much deeper I will know my wonderful Father because of it.
i think when i get to heaven i will roll around in the lush grass and belt out "at last" by etta james at the top of my lungs...i am sure i will not be alone on that one :)
i have been trudging through this school year, feeling much like a failure and very much broken and bruised from all my attempts at relinquishing comfort during a time filled with nothing of the like. and from having to fight lies in my head over and over again. and from learning (over and over and over...) the disciplines i need in order to survive down here. i am very aware of the fact that Satan is confident in all he has accomplished down here, and we are in a foreign territory that requires all the armor we have, every day.
so i come to this post today weary, tired, longing for a time of peace and comfort, rest and ease. and i also hate the fact that comfort is what i long for. not to bring Christ to all these people, not to be a great teacher, not to love, give, and share...i long for rest. i want familiarity. i want to let my guard down for just a few days without being almost swallowed whole with lies and deception.
so - at the moment, my life is like a slip 'n slide...i am always falling, slipping, and banging myself up...my journey not as firm as i would like it. i have seen my weakness and selfishness so often and in such ugly measures that i can just about lose it if i were to dwell on it. (and now i will actually have written proof of a bit of it)
so - no positive post today. just a few rantings of someone walking a lonely and hard road, knowing -yet at times forgetting -just how absolutely worth it this road will be, and how much deeper I will know my wonderful Father because of it.
i think when i get to heaven i will roll around in the lush grass and belt out "at last" by etta james at the top of my lungs...i am sure i will not be alone on that one :)
Thursday, April 27, 2006
A little quicky
Things are ticking right along.
We finally made it out to Looe Key, 5 miles out there is a protected reef, it was very nice. We went with a neighbor.
I'm still trying to find a technique of teaching that suits my personality. It involves as little talking as possible.
Christine is doing a study with the women in the church and she has grown so much in Christ it's amazing to watch. She still struggles with the Keys environment, but the stuff she is learning is awesome and worth the struggle.
I'm trying to discipline myself spiritually. Looking for the truth in this situation we are in. Which Christine has been helping me a lot lately. Everyday I have to tell myself the battle is not with the kids, but the evil that influences the kids. I'm learning their thought process is so foreign, that I'm having to trust God every second in that classroom to say the right things. I feel like I'm in a sword fight with a blindfold on.
Star Wars fans can relate to Luke fighting the trainer with a light saber and OB1 puts a helment on his head.
I lose 95% of the time I feel like. But I'm trusting God.
I only have 14 more days with the seniors, but it feels like another 14 years. I'm trying not to completely DREAD next year.
God will be glorified through us down here.
Isaiah 49:1-3
We finally made it out to Looe Key, 5 miles out there is a protected reef, it was very nice. We went with a neighbor.
I'm still trying to find a technique of teaching that suits my personality. It involves as little talking as possible.
Christine is doing a study with the women in the church and she has grown so much in Christ it's amazing to watch. She still struggles with the Keys environment, but the stuff she is learning is awesome and worth the struggle.
I'm trying to discipline myself spiritually. Looking for the truth in this situation we are in. Which Christine has been helping me a lot lately. Everyday I have to tell myself the battle is not with the kids, but the evil that influences the kids. I'm learning their thought process is so foreign, that I'm having to trust God every second in that classroom to say the right things. I feel like I'm in a sword fight with a blindfold on.
Star Wars fans can relate to Luke fighting the trainer with a light saber and OB1 puts a helment on his head.
I lose 95% of the time I feel like. But I'm trusting God.
I only have 14 more days with the seniors, but it feels like another 14 years. I'm trying not to completely DREAD next year.
God will be glorified through us down here.
Isaiah 49:1-3
Friday, April 14, 2006
Pictures
Loading these pictures are a huge pain in the arms. They make it on the site 50% of the the time and take about 15 minutes each. This is a little bit of the stuff that has been going on the past few weeks more to come.
Picture taken at our friends house on big pine.
The old bridge at Bahia Honda. First Railroad on the bottom and old road on top.
wind chimes that Anna Ashley and Hayes gave Christine for her BDay. Also a pony tail palm next to screen, present from Christine's mom and multi-purpose rug, present from my parents.
Exploring an island with all mangrove on one side and beach on the other. I was on the mangrove side and discovered this little passage that cut through the island and ended up on the beach. Really cool.
neighbors and friends hanging out one night. I still have not taken down Christmas lights, because we just like'em
Hawaiian baby wood rose vines. I'm trying to grow them to block out the junk yard behind the house. Suppose to grow high and fast. We'll see. The lovely back ground is our aeration system for the dirty water. The aluminum on the sides, keep Brittan from stomping the babies and deer from eating them.
restaurant in marathon. Trying to find cool places to take friends and family.
Picture taken at our friends house on big pine.
The old bridge at Bahia Honda. First Railroad on the bottom and old road on top.
wind chimes that Anna Ashley and Hayes gave Christine for her BDay. Also a pony tail palm next to screen, present from Christine's mom and multi-purpose rug, present from my parents.
Exploring an island with all mangrove on one side and beach on the other. I was on the mangrove side and discovered this little passage that cut through the island and ended up on the beach. Really cool.
neighbors and friends hanging out one night. I still have not taken down Christmas lights, because we just like'em
Hawaiian baby wood rose vines. I'm trying to grow them to block out the junk yard behind the house. Suppose to grow high and fast. We'll see. The lovely back ground is our aeration system for the dirty water. The aluminum on the sides, keep Brittan from stomping the babies and deer from eating them.
restaurant in marathon. Trying to find cool places to take friends and family.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
early finish
Well it is one week after springbreak and I found out that my seniors are having their final exams 1 week early and my 9th graders,only 7th period, is having their exam onthe 1st day of exams. Bottom line:I get to stop teaching or whatever goes on in my classrooms early.That's the good news, the bad newsis, I'm not there yet.
I have been trying to upload some pictures, but it just doesn'twant to take them and if it does, it takes about 15 minutes.
I have been trying to upload some pictures, but it just doesn'twant to take them and if it does, it takes about 15 minutes.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Resting and doing nothing
I couldn't go on my little adventure because my neck was injured. I also have to add, my backbones were messed up as well because my bottom right rib keeps popping out of its place.
So I just built a tool shed under the house to relax.
Before
after. I know the picture is small, but you get the idea. I got to figure out a better way to do the photos because they take too long to upload. If I have to wait 1 minute on anything I have a 25% chance of finishing.
Christine calls the tool shed my fort. I built the floor 2 feet off the ground for floods and extra storage. I thought it was a great Idea but the neighbors just say "ok?"
Anyway that gives the appearances of a fort in a tree. Which I'm finding it very hard to disagree with. Not to mention I decide what goes where. I'm really excited about it because now we can bring a lot of stuff down to the "fort" that has been cramed into every nook and cranny in the house.
I'm hoping Christine can see the family value in the fort and not just another addition that makes my world a little closer to perfect.
I got a lot of pictures so I'll try to get them funneled onto the on ramp onf the superhighway.
So I just built a tool shed under the house to relax.
Before
after. I know the picture is small, but you get the idea. I got to figure out a better way to do the photos because they take too long to upload. If I have to wait 1 minute on anything I have a 25% chance of finishing.
Christine calls the tool shed my fort. I built the floor 2 feet off the ground for floods and extra storage. I thought it was a great Idea but the neighbors just say "ok?"
Anyway that gives the appearances of a fort in a tree. Which I'm finding it very hard to disagree with. Not to mention I decide what goes where. I'm really excited about it because now we can bring a lot of stuff down to the "fort" that has been cramed into every nook and cranny in the house.
I'm hoping Christine can see the family value in the fort and not just another addition that makes my world a little closer to perfect.
I got a lot of pictures so I'll try to get them funneled onto the on ramp onf the superhighway.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Spring Break with a smashed neck
2 weeks ago today I woke up and went down stairs to sit on a swing I made out of a big blue mooring rope I found on the beach. This is a 50 foot rope with 2 huge loops at each end. I arranged the rope under the house so I can hang my kayaks and other stuff and use the loops for swings.
Saturday, I got everything where I wanted it with nails. For the swings I was going to come back and put in big anchor bolts. I did one, but couldn't find the other anchor bolt, which I knew I had. The next thing I know I get side tracked and forgot about not bolting in the swing.
The STUPID monster had jumped on my back for a quick ride. I didn't even know it was there until I sat in the swing Sunday morning. The swing fell to the ground with me in it and then the 70lb kayak fell on my head, smashing my chin into my chest with a 100 loud pops and cracks.
I was still seeing stars and could barely breath by the time the STUPID monster got finished with it's evil dance of victory and went on it's way laughing, looking for another victim. I managed to make it up stairs and to lay in the bed for the rest of the day.
I got x-rays done Monday and nothing was broke, but my backbone was bent up pretty bad. So we have been spending a fortune with a good chiropractor trying to get fixed. I can't hold my head up for more than 10 minutes without the pain getting the better of me. I'm wearing a neck brace so I can take some of the pressure off my neck. Pics are below.
School had been interesting, but what really stinks is that I had planned on going on an all out back country trip for about 3 days. 'Adventure in the islands' kind of thing that I desperately need to keep my sanity. So now I can't, because of the neck. I actually laid around the house today, DOING NOTHING! Christine said I couldn't do it, but I knocked that nothing thing out like it was something.
My neck feels good though, first time in 2 weeks, so I'm doing the right thing. Christine thinks I'm accident prone, which I might be. BUT if anybody does what I do on a daily bases, with the equipment I got to do it with and doesn't get bumped up occasionally, is unusually gifted with a special touch of grace reserved only for the movies, I think.
The way I look at it is: I'm still alive! and I can walk, talk, think, pray and play. And that is saying a lot if anyone thinks about the road I've been down.
Take my dad for example. Sure things happen to him and the parts don't work the way they use to, BUT if any body thinks about the mileage the man has behind him, it's incredible he can still function as a human being.
I'm going to leave with some photos. I took this one last weekend at Glen and Linda's house.
Christine calls me Fat Neck. Not a lot of sympathy in the Ray house.
Christine is also wearing her new birthday pajamas
Saturday, I got everything where I wanted it with nails. For the swings I was going to come back and put in big anchor bolts. I did one, but couldn't find the other anchor bolt, which I knew I had. The next thing I know I get side tracked and forgot about not bolting in the swing.
The STUPID monster had jumped on my back for a quick ride. I didn't even know it was there until I sat in the swing Sunday morning. The swing fell to the ground with me in it and then the 70lb kayak fell on my head, smashing my chin into my chest with a 100 loud pops and cracks.
I was still seeing stars and could barely breath by the time the STUPID monster got finished with it's evil dance of victory and went on it's way laughing, looking for another victim. I managed to make it up stairs and to lay in the bed for the rest of the day.
I got x-rays done Monday and nothing was broke, but my backbone was bent up pretty bad. So we have been spending a fortune with a good chiropractor trying to get fixed. I can't hold my head up for more than 10 minutes without the pain getting the better of me. I'm wearing a neck brace so I can take some of the pressure off my neck. Pics are below.
School had been interesting, but what really stinks is that I had planned on going on an all out back country trip for about 3 days. 'Adventure in the islands' kind of thing that I desperately need to keep my sanity. So now I can't, because of the neck. I actually laid around the house today, DOING NOTHING! Christine said I couldn't do it, but I knocked that nothing thing out like it was something.
My neck feels good though, first time in 2 weeks, so I'm doing the right thing. Christine thinks I'm accident prone, which I might be. BUT if anybody does what I do on a daily bases, with the equipment I got to do it with and doesn't get bumped up occasionally, is unusually gifted with a special touch of grace reserved only for the movies, I think.
The way I look at it is: I'm still alive! and I can walk, talk, think, pray and play. And that is saying a lot if anyone thinks about the road I've been down.
Take my dad for example. Sure things happen to him and the parts don't work the way they use to, BUT if any body thinks about the mileage the man has behind him, it's incredible he can still function as a human being.
I'm going to leave with some photos. I took this one last weekend at Glen and Linda's house.
Christine calls me Fat Neck. Not a lot of sympathy in the Ray house.
Christine is also wearing her new birthday pajamas
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Is there a Broker in the House?
My wee bitty sister, who just so happens to be the queen of a ranch in south Georgia and the mother of twins who are about to go off to college next year, just got her brokers license!
Carried books around for three years and studied for about 3 months, by herself, after teaching herself how to study, which is the hardest thing to do. Passed the test the first time!
She is a broker of Commodities, she sells corn and other things that grow or get grown. No technology YET. But nano technology will change commodities also, don't forget that little sis, you got some inside info right in the family. Be careful not to loose your license. Just kidding.
I'm purchasing 10,000 Born to sell Corn t-shirts to raise money to start her own firm in 10 years. I have to receive all the orders first though. So put your name on the list, only 10 bucks. These are all numbered t-shirts, so if you get in now it'll be worth a lot more later.
Carried books around for three years and studied for about 3 months, by herself, after teaching herself how to study, which is the hardest thing to do. Passed the test the first time!
She is a broker of Commodities, she sells corn and other things that grow or get grown. No technology YET. But nano technology will change commodities also, don't forget that little sis, you got some inside info right in the family. Be careful not to loose your license. Just kidding.
I'm purchasing 10,000 Born to sell Corn t-shirts to raise money to start her own firm in 10 years. I have to receive all the orders first though. So put your name on the list, only 10 bucks. These are all numbered t-shirts, so if you get in now it'll be worth a lot more later.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Saturday, March 11, 2006
back in the photo business
Well I have made my choice and it will cost me $70 to "renig", I think that stands for renegotiate?, if it doesn't, it ought to. It's really nice and EXPENSIVE! It does just about everything and fits into a waterproof cigarette holder, which is super cool. I'll use that until I can swing for a waterproof case that you can get. That one lets you take underwater photos down to 40 meters, or around 120ft.
When I bought the waterproof cigarette case, I asked the lady if it really worked good. She said it works great. I told her I wanted to use it for my digital camera. She changed her story and said it might not work that good. I thought, well if she doesn’t think smokers value cigs, like a digital camera, especially when your 15 miles out, all day, she hasn’t ever known a smoker. Anyway, BACK to the hoopla.
It's the POWERSHOT SD550!!!!! Game on! Dad and I are always in a unspoken challenge at who can have the best toys. He had the best camera, UNTIL NOW! sorry dad. I should say sorry mom and Christine, because this cuts into their clothing money.
Women give their time to the family and men buy toys they enjoy "for the family". It's not fair, but I think it's a good mix.
I'll have some photos by the end of the day. I'm still trying to get movies on the blog scene, but it just hasn't come together yet.
Other news:
1. I messed up my hair cut last night, so I'm back in a high and tight, Ranger style. It's funny because, seeing me like this reminds me of how I was, and I feel gross out of shape, waist is big, chest is small, arms are punny, and I feel like shooting something. I growl at myself in the mirror, strange.
2. We officially have fleas in the house, and the mold is coming back in the kitchen. So now we are going to tile the house and redo the kitchen. We are just waiting on 10,000 bucks. We take donations humbly and gratefully.
3. We are officially members of the sailing club. I went to the board meeting and found out about the little world of political complications of reserving boats, maintenance, and the strife of different opinions forced into one shack. The human creation is the same everywhere. I laughed to myself and said nothing.
4. 40 more days left of baby sitting, which is good and bad.
5. The canon ball gig fell through because you have to sign a one year contract. Refer to last news update.
6. It's Saturday, it’s sunny, it’s 75 degrees, and time to play and explore.
When I bought the waterproof cigarette case, I asked the lady if it really worked good. She said it works great. I told her I wanted to use it for my digital camera. She changed her story and said it might not work that good. I thought, well if she doesn’t think smokers value cigs, like a digital camera, especially when your 15 miles out, all day, she hasn’t ever known a smoker. Anyway, BACK to the hoopla.
It's the POWERSHOT SD550!!!!! Game on! Dad and I are always in a unspoken challenge at who can have the best toys. He had the best camera, UNTIL NOW! sorry dad. I should say sorry mom and Christine, because this cuts into their clothing money.
Women give their time to the family and men buy toys they enjoy "for the family". It's not fair, but I think it's a good mix.
I'll have some photos by the end of the day. I'm still trying to get movies on the blog scene, but it just hasn't come together yet.
Other news:
1. I messed up my hair cut last night, so I'm back in a high and tight, Ranger style. It's funny because, seeing me like this reminds me of how I was, and I feel gross out of shape, waist is big, chest is small, arms are punny, and I feel like shooting something. I growl at myself in the mirror, strange.
2. We officially have fleas in the house, and the mold is coming back in the kitchen. So now we are going to tile the house and redo the kitchen. We are just waiting on 10,000 bucks. We take donations humbly and gratefully.
3. We are officially members of the sailing club. I went to the board meeting and found out about the little world of political complications of reserving boats, maintenance, and the strife of different opinions forced into one shack. The human creation is the same everywhere. I laughed to myself and said nothing.
4. 40 more days left of baby sitting, which is good and bad.
5. The canon ball gig fell through because you have to sign a one year contract. Refer to last news update.
6. It's Saturday, it’s sunny, it’s 75 degrees, and time to play and explore.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Lunch break in the war zone
I meant to update the periodic trackers of the Ray Ray show this weekend, but just lounged around instead.
First-We did meet some new friends through our neighbors. They own a house on a canal on the other side (rich side) of Big Pine. They have a 22 foot cat with 2 250 Susukis on the back. And a jet ski. GOOD FRIENDS, should be a better term. The were teachers for 35 years and are now retired, so it was good talking to them. Christine did a great job at winning them over, so we are invited back anytime we want! We did just happen to take the boat out to an island to watch the sunset. Very nice.
Second-There will not be anymore pictures for a while. We decided to go swimming with our digital camera, when we went sailing last weekend and it has not been in the mood to work since then. So now we get to buy a new Camera. I am really torn down the middle with grief and jubilation. I love buying high tech stuff.
Third-We got our t-shirts that say the church has left the building. You can read about it here:
click here (if it works)
Anyway, now we are trying to find "time" to do it. Please kick us in the pants if we talk to you. We are both real nervous about it, but we both know it will be good for us.
fourth-I signed up to teach summer school. Sounds like a good gig. 9:00-1:00 and I get the same pay as I do now. No other jobs lined up this summer yet, which we both need to pay the rent. I might get paid to look for canon balls in the ocean with another teacher. That will be cool, but it's just talk right now.
I hope everybody is surviving and continues to look forward to the day when we all get to go HOME!!!
First-We did meet some new friends through our neighbors. They own a house on a canal on the other side (rich side) of Big Pine. They have a 22 foot cat with 2 250 Susukis on the back. And a jet ski. GOOD FRIENDS, should be a better term. The were teachers for 35 years and are now retired, so it was good talking to them. Christine did a great job at winning them over, so we are invited back anytime we want! We did just happen to take the boat out to an island to watch the sunset. Very nice.
Second-There will not be anymore pictures for a while. We decided to go swimming with our digital camera, when we went sailing last weekend and it has not been in the mood to work since then. So now we get to buy a new Camera. I am really torn down the middle with grief and jubilation. I love buying high tech stuff.
Third-We got our t-shirts that say the church has left the building. You can read about it here:
click here (if it works)
Anyway, now we are trying to find "time" to do it. Please kick us in the pants if we talk to you. We are both real nervous about it, but we both know it will be good for us.
fourth-I signed up to teach summer school. Sounds like a good gig. 9:00-1:00 and I get the same pay as I do now. No other jobs lined up this summer yet, which we both need to pay the rent. I might get paid to look for canon balls in the ocean with another teacher. That will be cool, but it's just talk right now.
I hope everybody is surviving and continues to look forward to the day when we all get to go HOME!!!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
My baby wants pictures!
GET SOME! GET SOME! It might have been my first time sailing in the physical world, but I've been sailing in my mind for years and years!
Romancing my true love
I didn't practice this in my mind.
It took me 30min. to dig the 1.5 foot hole. "Build your house on rock" He said. Crap! nothing is easy in this race.
CHEEEZZZ
Brittan's new chop job. She is 8mph faster and I can't catch her on my 18 speed.
bubble bath for BB head. Torture or pleasure? You decide.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
10 of the latest ain't the greatest
Update short and sweet
1.I added ads to the blog. They pay me every time somebody clicks on it, so get clicking. I'm also curious as to the kind of ads that match my site, which they say they will. If anybody sees too much flesh or flesh like temptations PLEASE let me know, I'll drop it like a ___ in a ____ with a _____ .
2. My seniors loved my new method of grading for the next 9 weeks. They applauded! It's simple, they earn the actual points. If they earn a total of 60 points and are happy with a 60, they don't have to do anything else, they get a 60 for the 9 weeks. They can finish in 5 weeks with a 60 if everything they do is perfect.
3.We got a Mystery date tonight. 3 couples try to solve a mystery, should be fun. I'm a Russian rocket scientist. I'm trying not to think of it as a communist nerd. Christine is Miss Kansas who was engaged to the dead guy bar-b-queing in a thunderstorm. I hope we get together:)
4.3 days of sunshine and 5-10 mph wind and no school. Time for a boat run!!!!!! water is still cold though:(
5.Brittan has fleas
6.The church put me in charge of the kayak group. About 15 people signed up for it. I got to call to set up the meet and greet. We are suppose to talk about God and go kayaking.
7.The trees I planted have not died yet.
8.Christine and I went to an Italian resturant for valentine's day and the food was worth the $1,000 we spent on it. The jazz players had more jazz in their face movements than in their instruments, which was entertaining. We had fun.
9.We finally know for sure when the trash man comes and the recycle man. Sat and Wed =trash, friday morning before 0500 for recycle. That was for my future reference.
10.I absolutely LOVE IT down here. And Christine is starting to see how she might be able to absolutely love it down here too, maybe. We got a few more kinks to work out.
Be cool and remember the only thing that counts is your focus on God and realizing the magnitude of HIS Love, Wisdom, and Power in your life.
1.I added ads to the blog. They pay me every time somebody clicks on it, so get clicking. I'm also curious as to the kind of ads that match my site, which they say they will. If anybody sees too much flesh or flesh like temptations PLEASE let me know, I'll drop it like a ___ in a ____ with a _____ .
2. My seniors loved my new method of grading for the next 9 weeks. They applauded! It's simple, they earn the actual points. If they earn a total of 60 points and are happy with a 60, they don't have to do anything else, they get a 60 for the 9 weeks. They can finish in 5 weeks with a 60 if everything they do is perfect.
3.We got a Mystery date tonight. 3 couples try to solve a mystery, should be fun. I'm a Russian rocket scientist. I'm trying not to think of it as a communist nerd. Christine is Miss Kansas who was engaged to the dead guy bar-b-queing in a thunderstorm. I hope we get together:)
4.3 days of sunshine and 5-10 mph wind and no school. Time for a boat run!!!!!! water is still cold though:(
5.Brittan has fleas
6.The church put me in charge of the kayak group. About 15 people signed up for it. I got to call to set up the meet and greet. We are suppose to talk about God and go kayaking.
7.The trees I planted have not died yet.
8.Christine and I went to an Italian resturant for valentine's day and the food was worth the $1,000 we spent on it. The jazz players had more jazz in their face movements than in their instruments, which was entertaining. We had fun.
9.We finally know for sure when the trash man comes and the recycle man. Sat and Wed =trash, friday morning before 0500 for recycle. That was for my future reference.
10.I absolutely LOVE IT down here. And Christine is starting to see how she might be able to absolutely love it down here too, maybe. We got a few more kinks to work out.
Be cool and remember the only thing that counts is your focus on God and realizing the magnitude of HIS Love, Wisdom, and Power in your life.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Big investment into something really small
Well! I finally did it! I put my money where my mouth is. For those who know me well can testify that I'm a big talker about nanotechnology and how it's going to change the world. And just to let you know, I have still not found anyone that I can have a good conversation about it. It's always just me talking to someone who thinks I watched one too many episodes of Star Trek.( Which I did enjoy watching)
I cashed out my 401k and opened a rollover IRA where I can invest in the stocks that I choose. That whole process was very educational. I then bought about 1,000 shares of stock called TINY. It's a company named Harris & Harris group and they invest money into several nano and micro companies. The companies range from manufacturer of clothes, medical, construction, and technology. Not to forget about companies that make equipment for the research and manufacturing. A well rounded portfolio kinda like a mutual fund. The guy on the phone called it something that I can't remember. I'm still not savvy on the lingo.
So to make a long frustrating process short I got everything ready to go and I was trying to buy the actual stock on line. Of course I don't want to wait until I can talk to the broker guy who was willing to help me through the process. I just want to hit the BUY button. Kinda reminded me of the "Watch this" phase I'm not quite out of yet.
It was about 10:00 at night and every time I tried to buy for the next day the fidelity web page showed an error. So at about 11:30 it finally went through error free. I couldn't wait to check it the next day after school, so during the quiz, I gave yesterday, I got online and cheeked it. I lost $400 in 3 hours! I laughed. Just like the "Watch this" phase I'm not quite out of yet.
I got to constantly remind myself that this is a 5-10 year investment. I'm sure Microsoft and apple had slow starts too. And I'm absolutely trusting God on this one. I honestly feel like this is a smart move with the money He gave me. I would like to be the servant who makes ten times more than his master gave him. Or he could teach me that I don't need a lot of money to do what He wants me to do. Love, Wisdom, and Power is in full effect for this transaction.
Well I got to go change the brake pads on the Nissan, hopefully it'll be free of good stories.
I cashed out my 401k and opened a rollover IRA where I can invest in the stocks that I choose. That whole process was very educational. I then bought about 1,000 shares of stock called TINY. It's a company named Harris & Harris group and they invest money into several nano and micro companies. The companies range from manufacturer of clothes, medical, construction, and technology. Not to forget about companies that make equipment for the research and manufacturing. A well rounded portfolio kinda like a mutual fund. The guy on the phone called it something that I can't remember. I'm still not savvy on the lingo.
So to make a long frustrating process short I got everything ready to go and I was trying to buy the actual stock on line. Of course I don't want to wait until I can talk to the broker guy who was willing to help me through the process. I just want to hit the BUY button. Kinda reminded me of the "Watch this" phase I'm not quite out of yet.
It was about 10:00 at night and every time I tried to buy for the next day the fidelity web page showed an error. So at about 11:30 it finally went through error free. I couldn't wait to check it the next day after school, so during the quiz, I gave yesterday, I got online and cheeked it. I lost $400 in 3 hours! I laughed. Just like the "Watch this" phase I'm not quite out of yet.
I got to constantly remind myself that this is a 5-10 year investment. I'm sure Microsoft and apple had slow starts too. And I'm absolutely trusting God on this one. I honestly feel like this is a smart move with the money He gave me. I would like to be the servant who makes ten times more than his master gave him. Or he could teach me that I don't need a lot of money to do what He wants me to do. Love, Wisdom, and Power is in full effect for this transaction.
Well I got to go change the brake pads on the Nissan, hopefully it'll be free of good stories.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
A Great Idea!
I know what your thinking. I didn't invent anything and I'm not going to make a million, YET. It's not even my idea.
Our church or pastor has decided to make hundreds of t-shirts that say "The church has left the building", the shirt looks pretty cool too. Instead of selling them to the members, he is going to give them to whoever wants one; under one condition. You have to do random good deeds to people you don't know or you have to give away a total of $20 to random people in the community as a gift from God.
We are to tell them it is our way of showing how much God loves them and the free money is kinda like the free gift of eternal life, you simple have to accept it. Or you can simply buy the guy's coffee standing behind you in the gas station, (20 times). Or buy the guy's food in front of you at McDonald's (4 times).
I think this is very cool. The pastor is not only getting the members involved in witnessing, but he is trusting God with the expense of those shirts. That's what I call a good ministry. A lot of prayer, and faith, a simple plan, a good motivator, trusting God with the money, and it is totally up to the Holy Spirit to bring glory to God.
I'm very excited about it, yet also scared. I don't enjoy being looked at like a freak giving away money or having people think I'm behind some big plot to swindle thousands from their checking account. But that's my problem.
Other than that Christine and I have had a great week, and we are planning on going to the symphony Saturday night in Key West. I'm in the middle of inviting people to our Super Bowl party, which I just had to have. If a man has a 7 ft x 5 ft TV screen with TIVO capabilities and loves the NFL, it's about as close to a sin as you can get, if he doesn't invite folks over to enjoy what God has blessed him with.
Our church or pastor has decided to make hundreds of t-shirts that say "The church has left the building", the shirt looks pretty cool too. Instead of selling them to the members, he is going to give them to whoever wants one; under one condition. You have to do random good deeds to people you don't know or you have to give away a total of $20 to random people in the community as a gift from God.
We are to tell them it is our way of showing how much God loves them and the free money is kinda like the free gift of eternal life, you simple have to accept it. Or you can simply buy the guy's coffee standing behind you in the gas station, (20 times). Or buy the guy's food in front of you at McDonald's (4 times).
I think this is very cool. The pastor is not only getting the members involved in witnessing, but he is trusting God with the expense of those shirts. That's what I call a good ministry. A lot of prayer, and faith, a simple plan, a good motivator, trusting God with the money, and it is totally up to the Holy Spirit to bring glory to God.
I'm very excited about it, yet also scared. I don't enjoy being looked at like a freak giving away money or having people think I'm behind some big plot to swindle thousands from their checking account. But that's my problem.
Other than that Christine and I have had a great week, and we are planning on going to the symphony Saturday night in Key West. I'm in the middle of inviting people to our Super Bowl party, which I just had to have. If a man has a 7 ft x 5 ft TV screen with TIVO capabilities and loves the NFL, it's about as close to a sin as you can get, if he doesn't invite folks over to enjoy what God has blessed him with.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
time to write
I would like to publicly thank my wife for taking over the blog site, while I was just not in the mood to type anything. I would like to think of it as a plot to get her to join me in this blogging thing, but I'm not that crafty.
We had to take a General knowledge test saturday, which lasted about 5 hours. I was jumping out of my skin. The lady giving the test even noticed my figiting around and came over and told me that she can see that I can relate well with my kids. I told her they have all my sympathy.
I remember all too well how horrible it is to sit in class ALL DAY. That is one of the things that I hate about this job. I feel like a person that tortures kids for a living.
School is actually getting better for me, but it seems to be getting worse for Christine. She has had 2 bad weeks and the week ends have not been enjoyable for one reason or another. AND we have about a month before our next long weekend, so it's going to be tough.
As far as stuff around the house. I planted 3 palm trees last weekend, which is a great deal more effort than just saying it. The proverb that talks about a wise man builds his house on rock, and a fool builds his house on sand, never thought about planting trees. We are on rock and coral! I had to use a heavy bar with a sharp point to break it up and then shovel it out. ALL DAY! 3 holes. We were going to plant pineapples, but that hole ain't worth no stupid $3 pineapple. If it's not going to provide shade or privacy, it's not getting a hole.
Last weekend we also got TIVO for our direct TV. It's very nice. All I got to say is don't get it, if you don't want it the rest of your life. I usually don't watch alot of TV other than couple of shows, football, and news, but now I can scope out the good stuff and watch it when ever I want. So in a way it's giving me freedom to do what I want when I want, but it also gives me more that I want to do that is not productive. blah, blah, blah, blah.
Today I'm going to change the oil in the "lower end" of my motor and hopefully finish the shelves and start new ones. The wind has been too bad for the boat, and hopefully I'll start my sailing lessons next week. AND hopefully start doing some stuff worth writing about.
We had to take a General knowledge test saturday, which lasted about 5 hours. I was jumping out of my skin. The lady giving the test even noticed my figiting around and came over and told me that she can see that I can relate well with my kids. I told her they have all my sympathy.
I remember all too well how horrible it is to sit in class ALL DAY. That is one of the things that I hate about this job. I feel like a person that tortures kids for a living.
School is actually getting better for me, but it seems to be getting worse for Christine. She has had 2 bad weeks and the week ends have not been enjoyable for one reason or another. AND we have about a month before our next long weekend, so it's going to be tough.
As far as stuff around the house. I planted 3 palm trees last weekend, which is a great deal more effort than just saying it. The proverb that talks about a wise man builds his house on rock, and a fool builds his house on sand, never thought about planting trees. We are on rock and coral! I had to use a heavy bar with a sharp point to break it up and then shovel it out. ALL DAY! 3 holes. We were going to plant pineapples, but that hole ain't worth no stupid $3 pineapple. If it's not going to provide shade or privacy, it's not getting a hole.
Last weekend we also got TIVO for our direct TV. It's very nice. All I got to say is don't get it, if you don't want it the rest of your life. I usually don't watch alot of TV other than couple of shows, football, and news, but now I can scope out the good stuff and watch it when ever I want. So in a way it's giving me freedom to do what I want when I want, but it also gives me more that I want to do that is not productive. blah, blah, blah, blah.
Today I'm going to change the oil in the "lower end" of my motor and hopefully finish the shelves and start new ones. The wind has been too bad for the boat, and hopefully I'll start my sailing lessons next week. AND hopefully start doing some stuff worth writing about.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
it looks like sailing days ahead...
today we had a chance to talk to two members of the Key West Sailing club. Adam has been waiting for this for a month now. We took a fellow teacher upstate for Christmas and during the ride, he told us of this club, where you pay a yearly fee, and can use any of their boats! So, of course Adam writes this in his PDA (if any of you out there know him, it ONLY gets remembered if it is in this thing - and not all items get this priveledge) and thus the trip this morning to the sailing club. Now, it just dawns on me while we are talking to these "old salts", that now i will also be learning to sail. Marriage is kinda like that, i guess. His desire will now become something I, too, will embark upon. So, with this new thought in my head - that i will be learning to sail - I am looking forward to an interesting adventure ahead. And also things like, will i like sailing?, is it easy to learn?, will i have to get wet?, you get my drift...
So, with an additional trip to Home Depot for some supplies (thank you Whites), we are going to be building some shelves. And what I mean by that is, I will tell Adam what I want it to look like, and he will show back upstairs with it. And that is what he is up to today. Downstairs, using a saw, listening to the radio, getting really dirty and walking in and out of the house (my favorite), and generally having a good time.
so - no fanfare of any proportion today. Just working around the house. it is very windy and somewhat cold today, so no water for us.
but as we were driving home, i was so thankful for all that God has blessed us with. I mean, we somehow got down here, and now we find this sailing club...we seem to move closer and closer to what Adam would love to do...and we didn't even try to do anything about it. if we hadn't helped out that teacher and given him a lift upstate, we wouldn't have heard about this club....weird, and cool. it's so nice to have Him looking out for us...
So, with an additional trip to Home Depot for some supplies (thank you Whites), we are going to be building some shelves. And what I mean by that is, I will tell Adam what I want it to look like, and he will show back upstairs with it. And that is what he is up to today. Downstairs, using a saw, listening to the radio, getting really dirty and walking in and out of the house (my favorite), and generally having a good time.
so - no fanfare of any proportion today. Just working around the house. it is very windy and somewhat cold today, so no water for us.
but as we were driving home, i was so thankful for all that God has blessed us with. I mean, we somehow got down here, and now we find this sailing club...we seem to move closer and closer to what Adam would love to do...and we didn't even try to do anything about it. if we hadn't helped out that teacher and given him a lift upstate, we wouldn't have heard about this club....weird, and cool. it's so nice to have Him looking out for us...
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
new year's eve??
well - this is the other Ray half speaking to all you avid blog readers out there. As I write, my husband is sleeping on the couch - a result of numerous hours of late night football watching....
so - here i am to say happy new year and may we all be blessed in this new gift we call "2006". I have been doing some thinking about this past year, as we all seem to do in the wake of a fast, tumultuous year-end, and have decided that we had a very action-packed time. We are both looking forward to a calmer year - whether it actually happens or not. But we know that God is with us and has been blessing us every harrowing step of the way. As have been so many others that we love. We are very thankful for such great friends and family that have prayed for us through our various moves and adjustments.
Well - speaking of adjustments, we are on the eve of school starting back up. So we have been at school planning and getting things ready. We feel a lot better going into this semester...but the nervousness and tension have returned.
We are praying for God to remind us that He is with us in all this stuff, and that He will be responsible for carrying us through this, so we don't have to worry about that.
We also plan to take some cool pics to show you....there are so many cool and interesting things here...
today at lunch we ate on the beach, watching a cruise ship come to port, parasailers playing way out in the Atlantic, and lots of vacationers taking advantage of the warm weather. so weird! wish i was on vacation....
well - time to sign off...
so - here i am to say happy new year and may we all be blessed in this new gift we call "2006". I have been doing some thinking about this past year, as we all seem to do in the wake of a fast, tumultuous year-end, and have decided that we had a very action-packed time. We are both looking forward to a calmer year - whether it actually happens or not. But we know that God is with us and has been blessing us every harrowing step of the way. As have been so many others that we love. We are very thankful for such great friends and family that have prayed for us through our various moves and adjustments.
Well - speaking of adjustments, we are on the eve of school starting back up. So we have been at school planning and getting things ready. We feel a lot better going into this semester...but the nervousness and tension have returned.
We are praying for God to remind us that He is with us in all this stuff, and that He will be responsible for carrying us through this, so we don't have to worry about that.
We also plan to take some cool pics to show you....there are so many cool and interesting things here...
today at lunch we ate on the beach, watching a cruise ship come to port, parasailers playing way out in the Atlantic, and lots of vacationers taking advantage of the warm weather. so weird! wish i was on vacation....
well - time to sign off...
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