With Major League Baseball entering the final month of the regular season, a look at the division standings shows that while some things change, some things stay the same.
American League East:
Wasn't Boston supposed to be down this year? Wasn't Toronto supposed to be a potential World Series participant? As a long-time Blue Jays fan, this season was effectively over several months ago.
American League Central:
I have a friend who is a pastor and church planter in Cleveland, Ohio. He also serves as the chaplain for the Indians. As such, I root for the Tribe. But really, it seems you can almost pencil in the Detroit Tigers as the division champion every year.
American League West:
The Texas Rangers have one of the highest player payrolls in the majors. The Oakland Athletics have one of the lowest player payrolls in the majors. The two teams are currently tied for the division lead in a race that could go down to the final day of the season.
National League East:
The Atlanta Braves. That is all.
National League Central:
Pittsburgh will not have a losing record this season. Finally! Does St. Louis ever have a bad season? The Cincinnati Reds are competitive here as well. This is the most interesting division in baseball as the season winds down.
National League West:
Anybody remember when the Dodgers almost fired manager Don Mattingly when the team languished in the division basement? That seems a long time ago as Los Angeles is now winning games at an historic pace. The defending World Series champion San Francisco Giants have been a major disappointment.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Sad But Not Unexpected
ESPN is reporting that former heavyweight boxing champion Tommy Morrison has died. He was 44. Having just turned 44 myself, I have followed Morrison's career from afar.
Morrison was never a great boxer. But holding a championship title, even briefly, as well as appearing in a Rocky movie kept Morrison around the headlines from time to time. But Morrison was often a note on SportsCenter due to his multiple run-ins with law enforcement (which included a stay in prison) as well as a contested HIV-positive blood test in the mid-1990's.
What might have been, never was.
Here's The Point: All too often we hear about athletes or celebrities who "push the envelope". Those who eventually "fall off the cliff" because they live their life so close to the edge. Very seldom do things end well for them. Sometimes they die at age 44. And while their demise is sad, unfortunately it is not unexpected.
Morrison was never a great boxer. But holding a championship title, even briefly, as well as appearing in a Rocky movie kept Morrison around the headlines from time to time. But Morrison was often a note on SportsCenter due to his multiple run-ins with law enforcement (which included a stay in prison) as well as a contested HIV-positive blood test in the mid-1990's.
What might have been, never was.
Here's The Point: All too often we hear about athletes or celebrities who "push the envelope". Those who eventually "fall off the cliff" because they live their life so close to the edge. Very seldom do things end well for them. Sometimes they die at age 44. And while their demise is sad, unfortunately it is not unexpected.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Why I Took a Break From the Blog
I've maintained this blog since January of 2009. Some months have included more posts than others. But in mid-July, I realized that I was having to force myself to make time to blog.
It's never been about followers or page views. I began blogging because my wife encouraged me that it was a great way to catalog my thoughts and ideas. A place where I could share the main points of a lesson I'd taught or a great quote I'd heard or read. Over time, it became a place to record the fun conversations I have with my sons.
But this summer, I found that what had often had been a joy had become a burden. The Point blog wasn't something I had to do but it had become something I felt like I had to do. But for who? Certainly not because of readership. So I took a break. For me.
Here's The Point: What are you doing that has become a burden, a duty? Maybe it started as a good thing but the joy isn't there right now. Why not take a break or even stop and find a new thing? That's what I've done with this blog and I'm glad I did. Life's too short to be weighted down by things that aren't important. We all have lots of responsibilities and those things deserve our attention.
So over the next few days, I'm looking forward to posting some great quotes and a few Parkerisms and Turnerisms. Maybe some notes from a relationships series I'm teaching right now. And maybe some thoughts on sports, culture and life. Not because I have to but because I want to.
Friday, July 19, 2013
More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 6, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Turner: How does Mommy get so much done so early?
Me: She loves to get up early and get going.
Turner: We've got two early birds in this house and two lazy birds.
Me: Actually, the words would be early birds and night owls. Let's say night owls not lazy birds.
Me: Parker, are you practicing piano?
Parker: Yes.
Me: I don't hear anything.
Parker: I'm doing theory.
Me: What?
Turner: That means he's reading the books.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-extending path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb- Sir Winston Churchill
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Major League Baseball at the All-Star Break
Over the course of a long season, there are always surprises. Some teams excel; some teams falter. Major League Baseball's All-Star Break provides a great opportunity to review the first half (and a few games) of the season:
American League East-
I'm a long-time fan of the Toronto Blue Jays. I grew up watching the AA Knoxville Blue Jays play at the old Bill Meyer Stadium. This was supposed to the year the Blue Jays returned to the top of the AL East. Outside of an 11-game winning streak in June, Toronto has failed to meet high expectations.
The Boston Red Sox, chosen to finish last in the division by many, have basically led the AL East since day one of the season. The New York Yankees have been hit by numerous injuries (and start a bunch of players most of us have never heard of) but are in a battle with the Tampa Bay Rays and Baltimore Orioles in a mostly (minus the Blue Jays) competitive division.
American League Central-
The Detroit Tigers, as expected, are the class of the division. Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander lead a strong pitching staff and Miguel Cabrera continues the Triple Crown pace he established last year. But the Tigers need a closer.
The long-suffering Cleveland Indians are hanging close, 1.5 games back at the break, and are currently in the mix for wild-card consideration.
American League West-
The Oakland A's continue to play winning baseball, no matter their low payroll. The Texas Rangers are two games back and looking to strengthen their pitching staff for the second half. The LA Angels have been a major disappointment with Albert Pujols and Josh Hamilton among others having sub-par seasons.
National League East-
The Atlanta Braves, with solid starting pitching, have led the division most of the season. If some of their bats wake up, they could run away in a surprisingly average NL East. The Washington Nationals appear to be the only team capable of catching them. The window for the Philadelphia Phillies has closed.
National League Central-
The St. Louis Cardinals have the best record in the National League. They are a model organization that is always competitive. It seems they're always formidable, even in "down" years.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are currently 19 games over .500. Although they've not had a winning season since 1992 and have faltered badly in the 2nd half the past two seasons, it appears they finally are making progress. Here's hoping this storied organization has overcome previous poor management and small market constraints to field a winner.
The Cincinnati Reds remain solidly in the hunt for the division crown at only 5 games back and are very much in the mix for a wild-card slot.
National League West-
The most wide-open division in baseball, the NL West crown is there for the taking. The LA Dodgers trailed everyone for most of the season but, after riding Yasiel Puig-mania through the month of June, sit 2.5 games back at the break. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies and defending world-champion San Francisco Giants all appear capable of winning the division.
American League East-
I'm a long-time fan of the Toronto Blue Jays. I grew up watching the AA Knoxville Blue Jays play at the old Bill Meyer Stadium. This was supposed to the year the Blue Jays returned to the top of the AL East. Outside of an 11-game winning streak in June, Toronto has failed to meet high expectations.
The Boston Red Sox, chosen to finish last in the division by many, have basically led the AL East since day one of the season. The New York Yankees have been hit by numerous injuries (and start a bunch of players most of us have never heard of) but are in a battle with the Tampa Bay Rays and Baltimore Orioles in a mostly (minus the Blue Jays) competitive division.
American League Central-
The Detroit Tigers, as expected, are the class of the division. Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander lead a strong pitching staff and Miguel Cabrera continues the Triple Crown pace he established last year. But the Tigers need a closer.
The long-suffering Cleveland Indians are hanging close, 1.5 games back at the break, and are currently in the mix for wild-card consideration.
American League West-
The Oakland A's continue to play winning baseball, no matter their low payroll. The Texas Rangers are two games back and looking to strengthen their pitching staff for the second half. The LA Angels have been a major disappointment with Albert Pujols and Josh Hamilton among others having sub-par seasons.
National League East-
The Atlanta Braves, with solid starting pitching, have led the division most of the season. If some of their bats wake up, they could run away in a surprisingly average NL East. The Washington Nationals appear to be the only team capable of catching them. The window for the Philadelphia Phillies has closed.
National League Central-
The St. Louis Cardinals have the best record in the National League. They are a model organization that is always competitive. It seems they're always formidable, even in "down" years.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are currently 19 games over .500. Although they've not had a winning season since 1992 and have faltered badly in the 2nd half the past two seasons, it appears they finally are making progress. Here's hoping this storied organization has overcome previous poor management and small market constraints to field a winner.
The Cincinnati Reds remain solidly in the hunt for the division crown at only 5 games back and are very much in the mix for a wild-card slot.
National League West-
The most wide-open division in baseball, the NL West crown is there for the taking. The LA Dodgers trailed everyone for most of the season but, after riding Yasiel Puig-mania through the month of June, sit 2.5 games back at the break. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies and defending world-champion San Francisco Giants all appear capable of winning the division.
Friday, July 12, 2013
More Parkersisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 6, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
During a conversation about a trip we took a couple of years ago-
Tonya: Wow, Turner, that's good. I'm surprised you remember that.
Turner: There are so many things I remember that it's hard to remember everything I remember.
Parker: Can I have some more milk?
Me: Sure.
Parker: Because I need to build my six-pack. Do you have a six-pack, Daddy?
Me: No. I have a one-gallon.
At bedtime a couple of weeks ago on the eve of Tonya's and my 14th wedding anniversary-
Turner: Mommy, why did you marry him?
During a conversation about a trip we took a couple of years ago-
Tonya: Wow, Turner, that's good. I'm surprised you remember that.
Turner: There are so many things I remember that it's hard to remember everything I remember.
Parker: Can I have some more milk?
Me: Sure.
Parker: Because I need to build my six-pack. Do you have a six-pack, Daddy?
Me: No. I have a one-gallon.
At bedtime a couple of weeks ago on the eve of Tonya's and my 14th wedding anniversary-
Turner: Mommy, why did you marry him?
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The point is, if you try to be everything to everybody, you may dilute your potential to reach anybody (Andy Stanley, 7 Practices of Effective Ministry)
Friday, July 5, 2013
More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 6, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Parker: Daddy, you know that no-hair spot on your head?
Me: Yes...
Parker: Can I lose my hair if I just hit myself on the head like this?
Me: Um, no.
While channel surfing and seeing an old Harlem Globetrotters game on ESPN Classic-
Turner: Is this from the 1980's?
Me: It says 1991. Why?
Turner: Because it looks really old.
Turner: I wish I were the ink in a pen. But if I was, and I got written down, it would be like I was dead. So maybe not.
Parker: Daddy, you know that no-hair spot on your head?
Me: Yes...
Parker: Can I lose my hair if I just hit myself on the head like this?
Me: Um, no.
While channel surfing and seeing an old Harlem Globetrotters game on ESPN Classic-
Turner: Is this from the 1980's?
Me: It says 1991. Why?
Turner: Because it looks really old.
Turner: I wish I were the ink in a pen. But if I was, and I got written down, it would be like I was dead. So maybe not.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Perspective on the 4th
On July 4, 1776, 237 years ago today, when this nation was born, the focus of our founding fathers was on the establishment of a country where people, free from tyranny and religious persecution, could engage in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness.
Over the years, much sacrifice has been made to protect the freedoms and values of this country. That sacrifice should never be forgotten.
Today, on Independence Day, the focus is quite different: hot dogs, fireworks, going to the lake, appliance sales, pops concerts and baseball games. But, thankfully, in America, those things represent life, liberty and happiness.
Happy 4th of July!
Over the years, much sacrifice has been made to protect the freedoms and values of this country. That sacrifice should never be forgotten.
Today, on Independence Day, the focus is quite different: hot dogs, fireworks, going to the lake, appliance sales, pops concerts and baseball games. But, thankfully, in America, those things represent life, liberty and happiness.
Happy 4th of July!
Great Quote Thursday
If you can't explain it to a six year old, you don't understand it yourself- Albert Einstein
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Answered Prayers- Growing Faith
Earlier this week we learned that a friend of Parker's gave his life to Christ last week. And another prayer was answered.
Over the past several years, at bedtime most every night, Parker has prayed for a list of family, friends and classmates, that each of them would give their life to Christ. As time has passed, his prayers have been answered repeatedly and new names are added to the list.
And with each answered prayer, Parker's faith grows.
Over the past several years, at bedtime most every night, Parker has prayed for a list of family, friends and classmates, that each of them would give their life to Christ. As time has passed, his prayers have been answered repeatedly and new names are added to the list.
And with each answered prayer, Parker's faith grows.
Friday, June 28, 2013
More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 6, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are a few more:
On Thursday evening, we made an after-work trip to Dollywood to take advantage of the the "Great American Summer" promotion there. This summer, the theme park is staying open later and has nightly fireworks. Though the weather on Thursday evening seemed as if rain showers were possible, we decided to go anyway since it was Turner's birthday. Within 30 minutes of arriving at the park, the clouds grew dark and rain began to fall. Short of Tonya and Turner riding the Dollywood classic, Blazing Fury, the trip was mostly a wash-out.
On the way home, as Turner grumbled about not getting to stay at the park and questioning whether we should have even tried to go:
Parker: Like Ms. Frizzle (from Magic School Bus) always says: Take risks, which we did. Make mistakes, which we did. And get messy, which we did.
Also, on the way home from Dollywood (from out of nowhere)-
Turner: I may never get to go to Nebraska.
On Thursday evening, we made an after-work trip to Dollywood to take advantage of the the "Great American Summer" promotion there. This summer, the theme park is staying open later and has nightly fireworks. Though the weather on Thursday evening seemed as if rain showers were possible, we decided to go anyway since it was Turner's birthday. Within 30 minutes of arriving at the park, the clouds grew dark and rain began to fall. Short of Tonya and Turner riding the Dollywood classic, Blazing Fury, the trip was mostly a wash-out.
On the way home, as Turner grumbled about not getting to stay at the park and questioning whether we should have even tried to go:
Parker: Like Ms. Frizzle (from Magic School Bus) always says: Take risks, which we did. Make mistakes, which we did. And get messy, which we did.
Also, on the way home from Dollywood (from out of nowhere)-
Turner: I may never get to go to Nebraska.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Practice doesn't make perfect, practice makes permanent. Therefore, make sure that you are practicing the right way, the right things. Making those right things permanent."- Morgan Wootten, hall of fame high school basketball coach
Turner is 6 Today!!
Six years ago today, our world changed when Turner was born. We are blessed by him everyday.
Happy Birthday Turner! Daddy loves you.
Happy Birthday Turner! Daddy loves you.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Book Review: Role of a Lifetime by James Brown
James Brown, the host of CBS Sports' The NFL Today, combined with coauthor Nathan Whitaker to offer this sketch of his life.
Growing up in Washington, DC to a working class family, Brown played high school basketball at famed basketball powerhouse DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland under the tutelage of hall of fame basketball coach Morgan Wootten. He then attended Harvard University, graduating in 1973, as a three-time All-Ivy League basketball player. Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks, he was the final cut in training camp. Brown admits to not giving all-out effort to improve his game while in college.
While holding a lucrative corporate sales position at IBM, Brown began moonlighting as a sports broadcaster, working local college games and serving as a replacement sports anchor at a local television station. Before long, he chose to pursue sportscasting full-time. Having served as the host of Fox NFL Sunday and now at CBS, Brown is at the top of his profession.
Role of a Lifetime is experiential in nature, not a true historical account. Few dates are given. But what Brown does make clear is his love for his mother and the example she set in raising him; his desire to maximize the gifts God has given him; his desire to treat everyone, whether an executive or a hotel bellhop with courtesy and respect; and his love for his wife Dorothy. He finds it very important that he maintain a clear testimony to well represent his faith in Jesus Christ.
The book rambles at times but is a short read. Confirming the persona Brown presents on television, Role of a Lifetime shows Brown as the very likable individual we see every Sunday of the NFL football season.
Growing up in Washington, DC to a working class family, Brown played high school basketball at famed basketball powerhouse DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland under the tutelage of hall of fame basketball coach Morgan Wootten. He then attended Harvard University, graduating in 1973, as a three-time All-Ivy League basketball player. Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks, he was the final cut in training camp. Brown admits to not giving all-out effort to improve his game while in college.
While holding a lucrative corporate sales position at IBM, Brown began moonlighting as a sports broadcaster, working local college games and serving as a replacement sports anchor at a local television station. Before long, he chose to pursue sportscasting full-time. Having served as the host of Fox NFL Sunday and now at CBS, Brown is at the top of his profession.
Role of a Lifetime is experiential in nature, not a true historical account. Few dates are given. But what Brown does make clear is his love for his mother and the example she set in raising him; his desire to maximize the gifts God has given him; his desire to treat everyone, whether an executive or a hotel bellhop with courtesy and respect; and his love for his wife Dorothy. He finds it very important that he maintain a clear testimony to well represent his faith in Jesus Christ.
The book rambles at times but is a short read. Confirming the persona Brown presents on television, Role of a Lifetime shows Brown as the very likable individual we see every Sunday of the NFL football season.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Great disciple-makers will always take their followers through a process. It starts with "You watch; I do" and moves to "Let's do it together" and then to "You do; I watch." Finally, the disciple starts this same process with someone else- someone who watches while the disciple does. (Jim Putman, Real-Life Discipleship, page 59)
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Champions are champions not because they do anything extraordinary but because they do the ordinary things better than anyone else- Chuck Noll
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
14th Wedding Anniversary
Today, Tonya and I have been married for 14 years!! God has truly blessed us in our marriage.
June 12, 1999 was a wonderful day and so is today.
June 12, 1999 was a wonderful day and so is today.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do- Mark Twain
Sunday, June 2, 2013
5 Promises from Leaders
In the Old Testament book of Nehemiah, God leads Nehemiah to lead a group of people to restore the city of Jerusalem. Long left in ruin, the city has become an embarrassment to the Jewish people. Overcoming seemingly insurmountable difficulties, the wall around Jerusalem is rebuilt in just a few short weeks.
Following a period of confession of sin throughout Nehemiah 9, the leaders make a covenant with God (v. 38) to change the way they've been living, with a promise to live more Godly lives.
In Nehemiah 10, we see the leaders make a promise to God to:
1. Follow Scripture- v. 28, 29
2. Be Godly families- v. 30
3. Honor the Sabbath- v. 31-33
4. Serve in the church- v. 34-36
5. Financially support the church- v. 37-39
A list of leader promises made thousands of years ago is a great template for modern-day leaders.
Following a period of confession of sin throughout Nehemiah 9, the leaders make a covenant with God (v. 38) to change the way they've been living, with a promise to live more Godly lives.
In Nehemiah 10, we see the leaders make a promise to God to:
1. Follow Scripture- v. 28, 29
2. Be Godly families- v. 30
3. Honor the Sabbath- v. 31-33
4. Serve in the church- v. 34-36
5. Financially support the church- v. 37-39
A list of leader promises made thousands of years ago is a great template for modern-day leaders.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Your great desire ought to be to know His will. Your great delight ought to be to do His will. Your great danger is to refuse His will- Adrian Rogers (What Every Christian Ought to Know- page 131).
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
One of the sweetest lessons I ever learned about prayer is this: the prayer that gets to heaven is the prayer that starts in heaven. What we do is just close the circuit. God lays something upon our heart to pray for, we pray for it, and it goes right back to heaven- Adrian Rogers (What Every Christian Ought to Know- page 218).
Friday, May 17, 2013
More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
While watching a recent NBA game-
Turner: That looked like Dwyane Wade.
Me: It was Dwyane Wade.
Turner: But he was wearing a suit and glasses.
Me: I guess he must be injured.
Turner: Did he get hit by a car?
Me: What?!?
Turner: Like Kermit the Frog in the Muppet movie.
Interrupting me as I tried to explain something to him-
Parker: I know. I know. Wait a minute. Tell me a little bit and then I'll know.
After hearing someone say something unkind-
Turner: That's something you should just keep in your heart. And don't say it. And don't write it down.
While watching a recent NBA game-
Turner: That looked like Dwyane Wade.
Me: It was Dwyane Wade.
Turner: But he was wearing a suit and glasses.
Me: I guess he must be injured.
Turner: Did he get hit by a car?
Me: What?!?
Turner: Like Kermit the Frog in the Muppet movie.
Interrupting me as I tried to explain something to him-
Parker: I know. I know. Wait a minute. Tell me a little bit and then I'll know.
After hearing someone say something unkind-
Turner: That's something you should just keep in your heart. And don't say it. And don't write it down.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant- Robert Louis Stevenson
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Ingredients for Successful Living
I'm currently reading Role of a Lifetime, a book written by James Brown, the host of CBS' The NFL Today. In the book, he outlines his "Ingredients for Successful Living", calling them his "seven fundamentals for success".
The seven ingredients consist of :
Good Communication Skills
Appearance
Personal Relations
Punctuality
Thirst for Knowledge
Being a Team Player
Overcoming Adversity
The seven ingredients consist of :
Good Communication Skills
Appearance
Personal Relations
Punctuality
Thirst for Knowledge
Being a Team Player
Overcoming Adversity
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
It is when we stop doing our best work that our enthusiasm for the job wanes. We must motivate ourselves to do our very best, and by our example lead others to do their best as well- Truett Cathy
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Tuesdays with Tom (Part 4)
Over the past several Tuesday mornings, Tom Kilgore, who recently retired from his position as Chief Executive Office of the Tennessee Valley Authority, has conducted leadership training with our church staff. Being a member of our church, Tom is a widely respected leader in the energy industry, throughout the Southeast, as well as at Sevier Heights where he serves in a variety of roles including that of Bible Fellowship Group leader.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
If you do nothing today, tomorrow will have the temptation to look like yesterday.
If you reach all your goals, you're not thinking high enough.
You can have discipline now or disappointment later.
What's under the surface must be as good as what people see.
Actions lie louder than words.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
If you do nothing today, tomorrow will have the temptation to look like yesterday.
If you reach all your goals, you're not thinking high enough.
You can have discipline now or disappointment later.
What's under the surface must be as good as what people see.
Actions lie louder than words.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Tuesdays with Tom (Part 3)
Over the past several Tuesday mornings, Tom Kilgore, who recently retired from his position as Chief Executive Office of the Tennessee Valley Authority, has conducted leadership training with our church staff. Being a member of our church, Tom is a widely respected leader in the energy industry, throughout the Southeast, as well as at Sevier Heights where he serves in a variety of roles including that of Bible Fellowship Group leader.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
Goals begin behavior. If you don't know where you're going, any old road will get you there.
Write your goals down. The things you plan to do, write them down. The discipline of writing them down helps you refine your goals.
SMART goals are: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timed.
Have spiritual, physical, relational and financial goals.
You don't have to do everything today but you have to do something today.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
Goals begin behavior. If you don't know where you're going, any old road will get you there.
Write your goals down. The things you plan to do, write them down. The discipline of writing them down helps you refine your goals.
SMART goals are: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timed.
Have spiritual, physical, relational and financial goals.
You don't have to do everything today but you have to do something today.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Tuesdays with Tom (Part 2)
Over the past several Tuesday mornings, Tom Kilgore, who recently retired from his position as Chief Executive Office of the Tennessee Valley Authority, has conducted leadership training with our church staff. Being a member of our church, Tom is a widely respected leader in the energy industry, throughout the Southeast, as well as at Sevier Heights where he serves in a variety of roles including that of Bible Fellowship Group leader.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
In an organization, all vectors must be aligned, otherwise there is wasted energy.
Every problem we have is an opportunity for God's power to show itself.
Enthusiasm is at the bottom of all progress- Henry Ford
It's better to remember a few things than to hear a lot of things.
Cooperation is not the goal. Collaboration is the goal.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
In an organization, all vectors must be aligned, otherwise there is wasted energy.
Every problem we have is an opportunity for God's power to show itself.
Enthusiasm is at the bottom of all progress- Henry Ford
It's better to remember a few things than to hear a lot of things.
Cooperation is not the goal. Collaboration is the goal.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Turner: Hey Daddy, kelp and help rhyme?
Me: Yes, they do. Do you know what kelp is?
Turner: A plant.
Me: Okay, another question for you. Would you find kelp in the ocean or in the mountains?
Turner: I don't mean to talk smack but, HELLO, kelp doesn't grow in the mountains.
Parker: Is it Craigslist or Gregslist?
Me: It's Craigslist. With a C.
Parker: Why does a guy need a list?
Last year, Turner had 4'x6' garden box in our back yard-
Me: Turner, do you want to have a garden again this year?
Turner: Oh sure. A big one in our front yard.
Me: No.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The goal of disciplines is freedom. I want to be free to do the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason- John Ortberg, Overcoming Your Shadow Mission (page 56).
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Tuesdays with Tom
Over the past several Tuesday mornings, Tom Kilgore, who recently retired from his position as Chief Executive Office of the Tennessee Valley Authority, has conducted leadership training with our church staff. Being a member of our church, Tom is a widely respected leader in the energy industry, throughout the Southeast, as well as at Sevier Heights where he serves in a variety of roles including that of Bible Fellowship Group leader.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
If you can't address concerns, you're not a person of convictions.
Positive change doesn't usually feel good in the beginning.
You can't really make positive change without effective communication.
Real communication only occurs face-to-face.
In moments of crises, turn up the volume on communication, both speaking and listening.
Accessibility is not necessarily "open door", but there must be some clear process.
Combining Biblical knowledge with leadership and business principles, Tom is helping us improve how we serve, lead and conduct ministry. Here is some of what he's shared:
If you can't address concerns, you're not a person of convictions.
Positive change doesn't usually feel good in the beginning.
You can't really make positive change without effective communication.
Real communication only occurs face-to-face.
In moments of crises, turn up the volume on communication, both speaking and listening.
Accessibility is not necessarily "open door", but there must be some clear process.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Instead of asking, "WHAT should we do to compete?" the questions must be asked, "WHY did we start doing WHAT we're doing in the first place, and WHAT can we do to bring our cause to life considering all the technologies and market opportunities available today?"- Simon Sinek, Start With Why (page 51)
Friday, April 19, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Me: I'm really proud of you for participating in festival (a process where he was graded on his piano playing by piano teachers other than his own).
Parker: Thank you. But technically, I had to.
Based on his performance in festival, we wanted to take Parker out to dinner to celebrate at the eatery of his choice-
Me: Where do you want to go to dinner to celebrate?
Parker: Subway
Me: No, I mean to go to a nice place.
Parker: Well, if I can't go to Subway, I might as well go to Aubrey's.
Turner: Your mouth is your enemy when you say bad things.
Me: I'm really proud of you for participating in festival (a process where he was graded on his piano playing by piano teachers other than his own).
Parker: Thank you. But technically, I had to.
Based on his performance in festival, we wanted to take Parker out to dinner to celebrate at the eatery of his choice-
Me: Where do you want to go to dinner to celebrate?
Parker: Subway
Me: No, I mean to go to a nice place.
Parker: Well, if I can't go to Subway, I might as well go to Aubrey's.
Turner: Your mouth is your enemy when you say bad things.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Jesus will not be domesticated. But people still try. There seems to be something about this Man for everybody. So we pick and choose in a way that shows He is on our side. All over the world, having Jesus on your side is a good thing. But not the original, undomesticated, unadjusted Jesus. Just the revised Jesus who fits our religion or political platform or lifestyle- John Piper (Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ: page 117).
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Drive Conference Notes- Breakout: Leading Through Organizational Change
Gavin Adams led a breakout session called "Leading Through Organizational Change". Following are some session notes:
People want you to articulate where the change is going as best you can.
Honesty leads to trust and trust leads to influence.
Big change should take place through incremental steps.
Accept "no" well.
Organizational change is inevitable and necessary for ongoing success.
People want you to articulate where the change is going as best you can.
Honesty leads to trust and trust leads to influence.
Big change should take place through incremental steps.
Accept "no" well.
Organizational change is inevitable and necessary for ongoing success.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Drive Conference Notes- Breakout: Spiritual Formation Through Small Groups
Bill Willits led a breakout session called "Spiritual Formation Through Small Groups". Here are some notes:
Spiritual growth is a journey, not a destination.
Salvation occurs at a point in time; growth continues over time.
You never graduate from the school of discipleship- Howard Hendricks
Challenge people to be owners of their spiritual growth, not just consumers. Grow muscle, not feed fat.
Spiritual growth is a journey, not a destination.
Salvation occurs at a point in time; growth continues over time.
You never graduate from the school of discipleship- Howard Hendricks
Challenge people to be owners of their spiritual growth, not just consumers. Grow muscle, not feed fat.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Your greatest contribution to the kingdom of God may not be something you do but someone you raise- Andy Stanley
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Drive Conference Notes- Breakout: Confessions of a Problem Solver
Rick Holliday led a breakout session called "Confessions of a Problem Solver". Here are some of the notes from that session:
An unsolvable problem is one that no amount of money, time or resources can solve.
A leader must determine if the situation is a tension to manage or a problem to solve.
When volunteers under perform, it is usually due to a lack of training.
If people understand your vision, they're more likely to understand your decision.
An unsolvable problem is one that no amount of money, time or resources can solve.
A leader must determine if the situation is a tension to manage or a problem to solve.
When volunteers under perform, it is usually due to a lack of training.
If people understand your vision, they're more likely to understand your decision.
Great Quote Thursday
In preparing for battle, I have always found that plans are useless but planning in indispensable- Dwight Eisenhower
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Drive Conference Notes- Main Session #2
Some members of our church staff recently attended the Drive Conference, a conference for church and ministry leaders, held at North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, GA. In this and several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from that conference.
Andy Stanley led another main session titled "Creating a Come-and-See Culture: Three Essential Ingredients". Here is some of what he shared:
The 3 essential ingredients are: an appealing setting; an engaging presentation; and helpful content.
In all our ministry environments, there are things that are blind to us but obvious to guests.
Never let an org chart determine what people do, especially publicly.
You must be engaging; what you say can't simply be true.
People stop attending because they disengage not because they disagree.
Attention span is determined by the quality of the presentation.
Andy Stanley led another main session titled "Creating a Come-and-See Culture: Three Essential Ingredients". Here is some of what he shared:
The 3 essential ingredients are: an appealing setting; an engaging presentation; and helpful content.
In all our ministry environments, there are things that are blind to us but obvious to guests.
Never let an org chart determine what people do, especially publicly.
You must be engaging; what you say can't simply be true.
People stop attending because they disengage not because they disagree.
Attention span is determined by the quality of the presentation.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Drive Conference Notes- Main Session
Some members of our church staff recently attended the Drive Conference, a conference for church and ministry leaders, held at North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, GA. In this and several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from that conference.
Andy Stanley spoke in a main session titled "Rules of Engagement" where he shared some of the ways North Point prepares for weekend worship services:
Ask the Holy Spirit to bless the preparation as well as the moment
A goal is something to be accomplished; a win is something to be experienced
Your template is perfectly designed to get the results you are getting
Get the most out of the limitations (finances, space) you've been given
The Gospel is offensive but nothing leading to the Gospel should be
Don't assume too much knowledge or theology
The more time you give to planning, the more time you have to make things personal
Just doing something different is not strategic
Andy Stanley spoke in a main session titled "Rules of Engagement" where he shared some of the ways North Point prepares for weekend worship services:
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Monday, March 25, 2013
The Nest
Our Pastor Hollie Miller just completed a parenting series called "The Nest". On Sunday, he concluded the series with the second part of a sermon titled, "God Wants to Bless Your Nest". Here are some of my notes from that sermon:
Advice for parents: Start early; study Proverbs
Parents should teach their children:
1. To fear the Lord (Proverbs 1:7) as a God of judgment and as a God of salvation
2. To obey their parents (Proverbs 1:8,9) as representatives of authority
3. To resist peer pressure (Proverbs 1:10-19)
4. The consequences of bad choices (Proverbs 1:20-33)
Parents should not strive to be perfect parents but wise and Godly parents.
Wise parents:
1. Are always building a relationship with their children
Rules without relationship leads to rebellion
2. Teach their children to make wise decisions, not just to keep rules
Explain why it's best to obey; provide reasons for the rules
3. Discipline their children for the right reasons-
Because you love them
Discipline brings wisdom
To prepare their hearts for salvation
Major on the majors; minor on the minors
4. Love their children unconditionally
Show love through words, touch, time, praise
Ask Godly couples a bit ahead of you to share wisdom
Thursday, March 21, 2013
A Feature on Chad Mitchell on World Down Syndrome Day
Here's a link to a feature story WBIR did on my friend Chad Mitchell and how he is thriving as a young man with Down Syndrome.
A little known fact: Chad and Caroline Mitchell were the ring bearer and flower girl in Tonya's and my wedding.
A little known fact: Chad and Caroline Mitchell were the ring bearer and flower girl in Tonya's and my wedding.
Great Quote Thursday
Truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it and ignorance may deride it. But, in the end, there it is- Winston Churchill
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Book Review: Triumph- The Untold Story of Jesse Owens and Hitler's Olympics
Author Jeremy Schaap chronicles the rise of Olympic champion Jesse Owens from his poverty-stricken childhood in Alabama to his winning of four gold medals at the 1936 Summer Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany.
The book is divided into 3 sections. The first details Owens' birth to Alabama sharecroppers who escaped racism and poverty by moving to Ohio when Jesse was 9 years old through to his becoming a high school and, ultimately, a collegiate track champion at Ohio State.
The second section deals with the militaristic rise in Germany fueled by fanatical Nazism and how preparations for the 1936 Summer Olympic Games were carried out under the guise of a sophisticated propaganda campaign.
The third and final section goes into great detail regarding the days of the Berlin Games themselves and the daily activities of Owens as he pursued his Olympic dreams.
This genre of book, an historical sports biography, is one of my favorite types. As a result, I found this book quite interesting. It provides details into the life of Jesse Owens, showing him to be an amazingly athletic Olympic champion but not as a man without fault.
The book is divided into 3 sections. The first details Owens' birth to Alabama sharecroppers who escaped racism and poverty by moving to Ohio when Jesse was 9 years old through to his becoming a high school and, ultimately, a collegiate track champion at Ohio State.
The second section deals with the militaristic rise in Germany fueled by fanatical Nazism and how preparations for the 1936 Summer Olympic Games were carried out under the guise of a sophisticated propaganda campaign.
The third and final section goes into great detail regarding the days of the Berlin Games themselves and the daily activities of Owens as he pursued his Olympic dreams.
This genre of book, an historical sports biography, is one of my favorite types. As a result, I found this book quite interesting. It provides details into the life of Jesse Owens, showing him to be an amazingly athletic Olympic champion but not as a man without fault.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Friday, March 8, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Me: What are you going to play now?
Parker: Basketball on the Wii. Do you want to play with me?
Me: No, thank you.
Parker: I won't laugh.
Tonya: I wonder what they're doing for DNow (a weekend event for students at our church). Because they've done scavenger hunts before but you wouldn't want to do that in this weather.
Turner: Scavenger hunts? Looking for squirrels?
While watching an interview with Kevin Garnett of the NBA's Boston Celtics during All-Star Weekend, it was obvious that Turner has seen lots of player interviews.
Turner (answering the interviewer's question as if he were Kevin Garnett): We just doing what we do, baby.
While watching American Idol:
Parker: There should be a show called American Dance.
Tonya: There is a dance show. It's called So You Think You Can Dance.
Turner: I could be on there but not with ranch dressing on grapes.
(We have no idea what that means)
Me: What are you going to play now?
Parker: Basketball on the Wii. Do you want to play with me?
Me: No, thank you.
Parker: I won't laugh.
Tonya: I wonder what they're doing for DNow (a weekend event for students at our church). Because they've done scavenger hunts before but you wouldn't want to do that in this weather.
Turner: Scavenger hunts? Looking for squirrels?
While watching an interview with Kevin Garnett of the NBA's Boston Celtics during All-Star Weekend, it was obvious that Turner has seen lots of player interviews.
Turner (answering the interviewer's question as if he were Kevin Garnett): We just doing what we do, baby.
While watching American Idol:
Parker: There should be a show called American Dance.
Tonya: There is a dance show. It's called So You Think You Can Dance.
Turner: I could be on there but not with ranch dressing on grapes.
(We have no idea what that means)
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Except for moral issues and exact sciences, extreme positions are always wrong- Dwight Eisenhower
Monday, March 4, 2013
Relationship Wisdom from Dr. Rick Marks
Along with our Pastor Hollie Miller, Dr. Rick Marks has been leading a marriage workshop at my home church. You can watch those messages here. Here are some great quotes from last night's session:
Wherever you care, you find involvement.
Until you care enough, you won't change.
No one will confide in you if you are not a safe person.
A relationship gives your heart away.
Wherever you care, you find involvement.
Until you care enough, you won't change.
No one will confide in you if you are not a safe person.
A relationship gives your heart away.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 9 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
While recently watching an episode of Scholar's Bowl on PBS, the boys learned that I had participated in scholar's bowl competitions while in high school:
Turner: What did you know?
When it was announced that the Baltimore Ravens had reached a contract agreement with QB Joe Flacco that would make him the highest paid player in NFL history:
Parker: Why?
Last week, while watching an NBA game on TV:
Turner: Why are the officials so short?
Last Sunday, our church began a 3-week long marriage workshop. After the service, and knowing there will be two more weeks of the workshop:
Parker: Talking about marriage sure takes a long time.
While recently watching an episode of Scholar's Bowl on PBS, the boys learned that I had participated in scholar's bowl competitions while in high school:
Turner: What did you know?
When it was announced that the Baltimore Ravens had reached a contract agreement with QB Joe Flacco that would make him the highest paid player in NFL history:
Parker: Why?
Last week, while watching an NBA game on TV:
Turner: Why are the officials so short?
Last Sunday, our church began a 3-week long marriage workshop. After the service, and knowing there will be two more weeks of the workshop:
Parker: Talking about marriage sure takes a long time.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Friday, February 22, 2013
Parker is 9 Today!!
Nine years ago today, our world changed when Parker was born. We are blessed by him everyday.
Happy Birthday Parker! Daddy loves you.
Happy Birthday Parker! Daddy loves you.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The secret is to work less as individuals and more as a team. As a coach, I play not my eleven best, but my best eleven- Knute Rockne
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Thoughtfulness Makes an Impression
My son Parker turns 9 later this week. Today, when he went through the lunch line at his school's cafeteria, he punched in his numeric code when he purchased his milk. Any purchase made in the cafeteria requires the student to input their code.
But today, Parker experienced a pleasant surprise. When he entered his code, the computer wished him "Happy Birthday".
Here's The Point: I don't know if this little bit of thoughtfulness is something system-wide or if it only happens at my son's school. But someone, somewhere along the way, recognized the opportunity to take the information in the school's database and use it brighten a student's day.
Just a small moment of thoughtfulness that made an impression.
But today, Parker experienced a pleasant surprise. When he entered his code, the computer wished him "Happy Birthday".
Here's The Point: I don't know if this little bit of thoughtfulness is something system-wide or if it only happens at my son's school. But someone, somewhere along the way, recognized the opportunity to take the information in the school's database and use it brighten a student's day.
Just a small moment of thoughtfulness that made an impression.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
While praying in the car on our way to school on Valentine's Day:
Turner: And thank You that we get to go to school on Valentine's Day and celebrate a holiday of love.
Also, during the drive to school on Valentine's Day:
Parker (jokingly): What if I only get one valentine today?
Me: You know you'll get way more than that.
Parker: Yeah, but what if I just got one?
Me: Well, Charlie Brown just got one and he's done okay.
While playing Mario Kart:
Me: Is it my turn?
Turner: You may perceive (meaning proceed).
While praying in the car on our way to school on Valentine's Day:
Turner: And thank You that we get to go to school on Valentine's Day and celebrate a holiday of love.
Also, during the drive to school on Valentine's Day:
Parker (jokingly): What if I only get one valentine today?
Me: You know you'll get way more than that.
Parker: Yeah, but what if I just got one?
Me: Well, Charlie Brown just got one and he's done okay.
While playing Mario Kart:
Me: Is it my turn?
Turner: You may perceive (meaning proceed).
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
We are all starved for the glory of God, not self. No one goes to the Grand Canyon to increase self-esteem- John Piper
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
The Message: Solo Devotional
This semester, our Small Group is going through the Message: Solo Devotional written and edited by Eugene Peterson. The Solo contains paraphrased portions of Scripture (while noting expanded passages in the Bible) followed by a page of application tools that encourage the reader to read, think, pray and live.
Somewhat surprisingly, I've found the application section has helped me interact with Scripture in ways I haven't previously. When I read the Bible I tend to read it as "these things happened", as if I'm looking in on a scene. Being a student of history, I often read for facts and information. The Solo has helped me "experience" Scripture.
The application section for each day encourages the reader to place himself in the text for the day:
From Day 10 and a text from Matthew 21 when Jesus throws the money changers out of the Temple:
"Imagine you are there when Jesus comes in the temple and cleanses it. Now let the blind and crippled come into your view. Watch Jesus healing them. Listen to the voices of the children as they play and shout "Hosanna"." What's your reaction to them? To Jesus' interaction with the disabled? To the indignation of the religious leaders? (Include not only your mental reaction but your physical reaction too, if any)."
To place myself in the scene as one of the disciples; to imagine I am a bystander watching Jesus heal a leper; to be "in" the Scripture, has been a good experience for me and all the guys in our group.
Somewhat surprisingly, I've found the application section has helped me interact with Scripture in ways I haven't previously. When I read the Bible I tend to read it as "these things happened", as if I'm looking in on a scene. Being a student of history, I often read for facts and information. The Solo has helped me "experience" Scripture.
The application section for each day encourages the reader to place himself in the text for the day:
From Day 10 and a text from Matthew 21 when Jesus throws the money changers out of the Temple:
"Imagine you are there when Jesus comes in the temple and cleanses it. Now let the blind and crippled come into your view. Watch Jesus healing them. Listen to the voices of the children as they play and shout "Hosanna"." What's your reaction to them? To Jesus' interaction with the disabled? To the indignation of the religious leaders? (Include not only your mental reaction but your physical reaction too, if any)."
To place myself in the scene as one of the disciples; to imagine I am a bystander watching Jesus heal a leper; to be "in" the Scripture, has been a good experience for me and all the guys in our group.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Attention to Detail
With my Dad's health issues, I've been spending some time recently helping my Mom get him to his various medical appointments. And as we all know, that often involves some waiting in the front lobby. Let's be honest, some lobbies are simply nicer than others because some practices pay more attention to the patient's entire experience.
This morning, we visited Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic (KOC) with Turner. (On Sunday night, Turner had a stool fall on his foot and break a toe. Following an X-ray at the pediatrician's office yesterday, we were sent to KOC for a follow-up. Turner's a tough kid, is in a walking boot for a few weeks and should be just fine).
During our brief time in the KOC lobby this morning, here's what I noticed:
Someone, probably a group of people, took the time to attempt to provide a quality waiting experience. And it was noticed. Effort is always appreciated.
This morning, we visited Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic (KOC) with Turner. (On Sunday night, Turner had a stool fall on his foot and break a toe. Following an X-ray at the pediatrician's office yesterday, we were sent to KOC for a follow-up. Turner's a tough kid, is in a walking boot for a few weeks and should be just fine).
During our brief time in the KOC lobby this morning, here's what I noticed:
- The waiting area was designed with lots of windows, allowing in natural light. Bringing some of the outdoors inside just "feels" better. Who doesn't like natural light?
- The furniture was all the same style; everything matched. More than that, the chairs were covered in 4 different but coordinating patterns. Someone had taken the time to design the look of the lobby.
- Did I mention everything was clean?
- Many waiting areas and lobbies have one, possibly two, TVs. In most cases, the TV(s) are locked on Fox News, CNN or some "health network". KOC had multiple seating areas, each with its own TV, providing different programming in each seating area. So rather than our 5 year old "watching" Fox News, he got to see a few minutes of Chuggington on Disney Junior.
- To allow busy people to maximize their time, a counter area is available for those needing to work on their laptop or Ipad while they wait. A help-yourself coffee station was adjacent.
Someone, probably a group of people, took the time to attempt to provide a quality waiting experience. And it was noticed. Effort is always appreciated.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The absolute worst place to begin constructing an identity is you, which is precisely where most counseling begins. The absolute best place to begin constructing an identity is Jesus Christ, which is precisely where Scripture begins- Mark Driscoll
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Super Bowl Prediction
Baltimore Ravens vs. San Francisco 49ers
Tonight's Super Bowl matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers looks to be a very exciting game. The two teams are quite similar in many ways, beyond the fact that they are coached by Harbaugh brothers (John Harbaugh- Ravens; Jim Harbaugh- 49ers).
Both teams feature powerful defenses. The 49ers defensive stats are more impressive but the Ravens D has gotten healthier in the past few weeks. Both teams feature big-armed quarterbacks (Joe Flacco- Ravens and Colin Kaepernick- 49ers) and solid ground games led by Ray Rice (Ravens) and Frank Gore (49ers) who are comparable in their impact on their team's offense.
Big questions tonight include:
Can the Ravens run enough to allow their aerial attack to thrive?
Will Ray Rice be an effective rusher and pass catcher out of the backfield?
The 49ers have given up some big passing plays, the kind the Ravens thrive on. Will this continue?
Can the Ravens defense keep Colin Kaepernick in check or will he run wild?
Will Kaepernick continue to thrive under the pressure of the playoff spotlight as he has done so far?
Who will make the big catch for the 49ers offense to open up their running game?
Possibly the difference in the outcome of this game is which team has a surprise breakout star. Almost every Super Bowl features one surprise breakout performance.
My head says to pick San Francisco but my heart says to go with Baltimore. Much has been made of Ray Lewis' leaderships skills as he enters what is thought to be the final game of his career. My choice of the Ravens has nothing to do with that, rather it has to do with teams getting on unexpected, unbelievable, unexplainable rolls through the playoffs (think New York Giants last season). The Ravens are on one of those rolls right now.
Parker's pick: Ravens
My pick: Ravens
Tonight's Super Bowl matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers looks to be a very exciting game. The two teams are quite similar in many ways, beyond the fact that they are coached by Harbaugh brothers (John Harbaugh- Ravens; Jim Harbaugh- 49ers).
Both teams feature powerful defenses. The 49ers defensive stats are more impressive but the Ravens D has gotten healthier in the past few weeks. Both teams feature big-armed quarterbacks (Joe Flacco- Ravens and Colin Kaepernick- 49ers) and solid ground games led by Ray Rice (Ravens) and Frank Gore (49ers) who are comparable in their impact on their team's offense.
Big questions tonight include:
Can the Ravens run enough to allow their aerial attack to thrive?
Will Ray Rice be an effective rusher and pass catcher out of the backfield?
The 49ers have given up some big passing plays, the kind the Ravens thrive on. Will this continue?
Can the Ravens defense keep Colin Kaepernick in check or will he run wild?
Will Kaepernick continue to thrive under the pressure of the playoff spotlight as he has done so far?
Who will make the big catch for the 49ers offense to open up their running game?
Possibly the difference in the outcome of this game is which team has a surprise breakout star. Almost every Super Bowl features one surprise breakout performance.
My head says to pick San Francisco but my heart says to go with Baltimore. Much has been made of Ray Lewis' leaderships skills as he enters what is thought to be the final game of his career. My choice of the Ravens has nothing to do with that, rather it has to do with teams getting on unexpected, unbelievable, unexplainable rolls through the playoffs (think New York Giants last season). The Ravens are on one of those rolls right now.
Parker's pick: Ravens
My pick: Ravens
Friday, February 1, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms (and a Tonya-ism)
Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Parker: Daddy, who is older, you or Michael Jackson?
Me: Michael Jackson. He was 10 or 12 years older than me. But he's dead now.
Parker: I know, but he looks young.
Me: He'd had some work done.
While listening to some Michael Jackson music:
Parker: Except for the "hee-hees", this sounds alot like @JamieDEvans.
In Nana and Papaw's basement:
Turner: Oh, I didn't know they had another TV down here.
Me: No. That's an old computer. That's what a computer used to look like.
And as a special bonus this week, a Tonya-ism:
Tonya: Hindsight is 50/50. (Posted with permission)
Parker: Daddy, who is older, you or Michael Jackson?
Me: Michael Jackson. He was 10 or 12 years older than me. But he's dead now.
Parker: I know, but he looks young.
Me: He'd had some work done.
While listening to some Michael Jackson music:
Parker: Except for the "hee-hees", this sounds alot like @JamieDEvans.
In Nana and Papaw's basement:
Turner: Oh, I didn't know they had another TV down here.
Me: No. That's an old computer. That's what a computer used to look like.
And as a special bonus this week, a Tonya-ism:
Tonya: Hindsight is 50/50. (Posted with permission)
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little- Edmund Burke
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Monday, January 21, 2013
31 Things to Pray for Your Children (21-31)
My Pastor, Hollie Miller, recently shared a list of thirty-one things that parents can pray for their children. With many months having 31 days, this is a great list from which to pray one item per day.
Here are items 21-31 (Items #1-10 were posted on January 1 and #11-20 on January 11).
21. A Desire for Wisdom and Knowledge- Proverbs 2:1-6
22. A Hunger for God- Psalm 42:1
23. To Know God's Will in Vocation- Ephesians 5:17
24. Tender Hearts- John 11:35
25. Protection from Discouragement- 2 Timothy 1:7
26. Friends Who Will Encourage Them in Christ- Proverbs 27:17
27. Protection from False Teaching- Colossians 2:8
28. To Learn Contentment- Philippians 4:11
29. Courage to Stand Alone- 2 Timothy 4:16,17
30. To Never Look Down on Others- Proverbs 16:18
31. To Be Quick to Confess Their Sins- I John 1:9
Here are items 21-31 (Items #1-10 were posted on January 1 and #11-20 on January 11).
21. A Desire for Wisdom and Knowledge- Proverbs 2:1-6
22. A Hunger for God- Psalm 42:1
23. To Know God's Will in Vocation- Ephesians 5:17
24. Tender Hearts- John 11:35
25. Protection from Discouragement- 2 Timothy 1:7
26. Friends Who Will Encourage Them in Christ- Proverbs 27:17
27. Protection from False Teaching- Colossians 2:8
28. To Learn Contentment- Philippians 4:11
29. Courage to Stand Alone- 2 Timothy 4:16,17
30. To Never Look Down on Others- Proverbs 16:18
31. To Be Quick to Confess Their Sins- I John 1:9
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Predictions for Today's NFL Conference Championship Games
NFC Championship Game
San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons
Parker's pick: San Francisco 49ers
My pick: San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have an outstanding defense and an offense that is, at times, outstanding. Take, for example, last weekend against the Green Bay Packers as Colin Kaepernick shredded the Pack D for several long runs when his receivers were covered. The 49er offense features a diverse combination of run/pass that prevents an opponent from focusing on one specific area.
The Falcons play well at home. Matt Ryan stepped up in a huge way last weekend against the Seattle Seahawks, leading the Falcons down the field for a successful last second, game winning field goal attempt. The Falcons defense will likely make in-game adjustments that the Packers did not make last week. Having home field advantage in the Georgia Dome could play a huge advantage in the outcome of this game.
AFC Championship Game
Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots
Parker's pick: New England Patriots
My pick: New England Patriots
The Ravens want to redeem themselves after being in this same position last post-season (losing to the Patriots on a last-second field goal miss in the AFC Championship Game). Will Joe Flacco step again this Sunday? Can the Ravens defense hold down the Patriots multiple receiver sets?
The Patriots always seem unstoppable on offense, until they're not (think last year's Super Bowl). Just when New England seems invincible and on an amazing run, they play a clunker of a game and lose when they shouldn't. Injuries to Gronkowski and Woodhead will either harm the Pats chances in the game or simply open the door for someone else to become a star. The Patriots defense, though improved, can be suspect.
San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons
Parker's pick: San Francisco 49ers
My pick: San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have an outstanding defense and an offense that is, at times, outstanding. Take, for example, last weekend against the Green Bay Packers as Colin Kaepernick shredded the Pack D for several long runs when his receivers were covered. The 49er offense features a diverse combination of run/pass that prevents an opponent from focusing on one specific area.
The Falcons play well at home. Matt Ryan stepped up in a huge way last weekend against the Seattle Seahawks, leading the Falcons down the field for a successful last second, game winning field goal attempt. The Falcons defense will likely make in-game adjustments that the Packers did not make last week. Having home field advantage in the Georgia Dome could play a huge advantage in the outcome of this game.
AFC Championship Game
Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots
Parker's pick: New England Patriots
My pick: New England Patriots
The Ravens want to redeem themselves after being in this same position last post-season (losing to the Patriots on a last-second field goal miss in the AFC Championship Game). Will Joe Flacco step again this Sunday? Can the Ravens defense hold down the Patriots multiple receiver sets?
The Patriots always seem unstoppable on offense, until they're not (think last year's Super Bowl). Just when New England seems invincible and on an amazing run, they play a clunker of a game and lose when they shouldn't. Injuries to Gronkowski and Woodhead will either harm the Pats chances in the game or simply open the door for someone else to become a star. The Patriots defense, though improved, can be suspect.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The best way to train up your children...set the example- Dicky Thomas (a Sevier Heights deacon and mentor while sharing with a young married couples group)
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Predictions for Today's NFL Playoff Games
AFC
Houston Texans (3rd Seed) at New England Patriots (2nd Seed)
Parker's pick: Houston Texans
My pick: New England Patriots
Houston stumbled down the stretch but Matt Schaub was able to win his first playoff game last week. The Texans will need to establish Arian Foster early and often in this game. Their defense must improve and WR Andre Johnson needs a big game to avoid a repeat of the regular season matchup between these teams.
New England continues an unbelievable run of winning at least 10 games in a season. The receivers may change but Tom Brady is still critical to the success of the Patriots pass happy offense. The Pats defense is improved over last year.
NFC
Seattle Seahawks (5th Seed) vs. Atlanta Falcons (1st Seed)
Parker's pick: Seattle Seahawks
My pick: Seattle Seahawks
Playing against a schedule of weaker competition, many continue to expect the Falcons to fade. They played well enough though to secure the top seed in the NFC. Matt Ryan needs to win a playoff game to secure a spot as an elite NFL quarterback. A large dose of RB Michael Turner would help extend the career of hall-of-famer-to-be TE Tony Gonzalez.
The Seahawks have traveled cross-country and back on successive weekends; their coordinators are interviewing for NFL head coaching vacancies; and their top pass rusher is out of this game. But they still have the surprising rookie QB Russell Wilson, the pounding running of Marshawn Lynch, and a defense that shuts down and punishes teams.
Houston Texans (3rd Seed) at New England Patriots (2nd Seed)
Parker's pick: Houston Texans
My pick: New England Patriots
Houston stumbled down the stretch but Matt Schaub was able to win his first playoff game last week. The Texans will need to establish Arian Foster early and often in this game. Their defense must improve and WR Andre Johnson needs a big game to avoid a repeat of the regular season matchup between these teams.
New England continues an unbelievable run of winning at least 10 games in a season. The receivers may change but Tom Brady is still critical to the success of the Patriots pass happy offense. The Pats defense is improved over last year.
NFC
Seattle Seahawks (5th Seed) vs. Atlanta Falcons (1st Seed)
Parker's pick: Seattle Seahawks
My pick: Seattle Seahawks
Playing against a schedule of weaker competition, many continue to expect the Falcons to fade. They played well enough though to secure the top seed in the NFC. Matt Ryan needs to win a playoff game to secure a spot as an elite NFL quarterback. A large dose of RB Michael Turner would help extend the career of hall-of-famer-to-be TE Tony Gonzalez.
The Seahawks have traveled cross-country and back on successive weekends; their coordinators are interviewing for NFL head coaching vacancies; and their top pass rusher is out of this game. But they still have the surprising rookie QB Russell Wilson, the pounding running of Marshawn Lynch, and a defense that shuts down and punishes teams.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Predictions for Today's NFL Playoff Games
AFC
Baltimore Ravens (4th Seed) at Denver Broncos (1st Seed)
Parker's pick: Denver Broncos
My pick: Denver Broncos
The Ravens want to extend Ray Lewis' Hall of Fame career for at least one more game. And they are getting healthier as a team the longer their season goes on.They sometimes struggle to score points however. QB Joe Flacco has been good but not great throughout his career. A large dose of Ray Rice rushes is likely at the top of Baltimore's play-call list.
The Broncos have exceeded expectations this season. An improved defense and a season-long healthy Peyton Manning have led to the Broncos having home field advantage throughout the AFC Playoffs. On an 11-game win streak, and at home, the Broncos are favored in today's game.
NFC
Green Bay Packers (3rd Seed) at San Francisco 49ers (2nd Seed)
Parker's pick: Green Bay Packers
My pick: Green Bay Packers
If you think the Packers are possible Super Bowl winners, you have to pick them to get to the big game. But this is a difficult matchup for them. The Packers however are getting several players back from injury at just the right time (Woodson, Nelson, Cobb). QB Aaron Rodgers has been on fire in recent weeks.
Will Colin Kaepernick shine or fade in his first playoff start? The 49er defense has been outstanding but has struggled at times against good offenses. San Francisco needs to get Frank Gore involved in this game. Home field for this game could have a significant impact on the outcome of what should be an exciting matchup.
Baltimore Ravens (4th Seed) at Denver Broncos (1st Seed)
Parker's pick: Denver Broncos
My pick: Denver Broncos
The Ravens want to extend Ray Lewis' Hall of Fame career for at least one more game. And they are getting healthier as a team the longer their season goes on.They sometimes struggle to score points however. QB Joe Flacco has been good but not great throughout his career. A large dose of Ray Rice rushes is likely at the top of Baltimore's play-call list.
The Broncos have exceeded expectations this season. An improved defense and a season-long healthy Peyton Manning have led to the Broncos having home field advantage throughout the AFC Playoffs. On an 11-game win streak, and at home, the Broncos are favored in today's game.
NFC
Green Bay Packers (3rd Seed) at San Francisco 49ers (2nd Seed)
Parker's pick: Green Bay Packers
My pick: Green Bay Packers
If you think the Packers are possible Super Bowl winners, you have to pick them to get to the big game. But this is a difficult matchup for them. The Packers however are getting several players back from injury at just the right time (Woodson, Nelson, Cobb). QB Aaron Rodgers has been on fire in recent weeks.
Will Colin Kaepernick shine or fade in his first playoff start? The 49er defense has been outstanding but has struggled at times against good offenses. San Francisco needs to get Frank Gore involved in this game. Home field for this game could have a significant impact on the outcome of what should be an exciting matchup.
Friday, January 11, 2013
31 Things to Pray for Your Children (11-20)
My Pastor, Hollie Miller, recently shared a list of thirty-one things that parents can pray for their children. With many months having 31 days, this is a great list from which to pray one item per day.
Here are items 11-20 on the list (Items #1-10 were posted on January 1 and #21-31 on will be posted on January 21).
11. A Godly, Happy Marriage- Genesis 2:24
12. To Learn to Work Hard- Proverbs 14:23
13. To Sleep Well- Psalm 3:5
14. To Learn to Share the Gospel- Mark 5:19,20
15. To Glory in the Cross- Galatians 6:14
16. A Heart of Praise and Thanksgiving- Psalm 107:1
17. To Learn to Resist the Devil- James 4:7
18. To Learn to Resist Peer Pressure- Proverbs 1:10
19. To Live in Integrity- Proverbs 10:9
20. Love for the Unsaved- Matthew 9:36
Here are items 11-20 on the list (Items #1-10 were posted on January 1 and #21-31 on will be posted on January 21).
11. A Godly, Happy Marriage- Genesis 2:24
12. To Learn to Work Hard- Proverbs 14:23
13. To Sleep Well- Psalm 3:5
14. To Learn to Share the Gospel- Mark 5:19,20
15. To Glory in the Cross- Galatians 6:14
16. A Heart of Praise and Thanksgiving- Psalm 107:1
17. To Learn to Resist the Devil- James 4:7
18. To Learn to Resist Peer Pressure- Proverbs 1:10
19. To Live in Integrity- Proverbs 10:9
20. Love for the Unsaved- Matthew 9:36
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Great Quote Thursday
The highest mental health is not liking myself but being joyfully interested in anything but myself- John Piper
Monday, January 7, 2013
Bowl Prediction: BCS Title Game
BCS Title Game
Alabama (12-1) vs. Notre Dame (12-0)
Parker's pick: Alabama
My pick: Alabama
Alabama's ground game and strong defense should be enough to allow Nick Saban to once again raise the crystal football.
Alabama (12-1) vs. Notre Dame (12-0)
Parker's pick: Alabama
My pick: Alabama
Alabama's ground game and strong defense should be enough to allow Nick Saban to once again raise the crystal football.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Bowl Prediction: GoDaddy.com Bowl
GoDaddy.com Bowl
Kent State (11-2) vs. Arkansas State (9-3)
Parker's pick: Arkansas State
My pick: Arkansas State
Kent State's weakness in the passing game, both on offense and defense, should be the difference in this game.
Kent State (11-2) vs. Arkansas State (9-3)
Parker's pick: Arkansas State
My pick: Arkansas State
Kent State's weakness in the passing game, both on offense and defense, should be the difference in this game.
Predictions for Today's NFL Wildcard Games
AFC
(5th Seed) Indianapolis Colts vs. (4th Seed) Baltimore Ravens
Parker's pick: Ravens
My pick: Ravens
The Colts have surprised to be here. Maybe amazed is a better word. After letting Peyton Manning go, they turned the offense over to overall top draft pick QB Andrew Luck. Luck and an improved defense have helped the Colts through the extended absence of Head Coach Chuck Pagano as he has battled leukemia. The Ravens are playing for respect. Ray Lewis is retiring after an injury-filled season. The defense is aging and the offense often struggles to score. Home field should be an advantage.
NFC
(5th Seed) Seattle Seahawks vs. (4th Seed) Washington Redskins
Parker's pick: Redskins
My pick: Seahawks
Outstanding rookie quarterbacks. Two teams surprised at how well their seasons have gone. The Washington offense is electric. The combination of RG3 and Albert Morris is one of the best rookie pairings in the history of the NFL. The Seattle defense is impressive. The don't simply tackle, they punish. Is RG3 completely healthy? Can the Redskins defense stop Russell Wilson? Should be an exciting game.
(5th Seed) Indianapolis Colts vs. (4th Seed) Baltimore Ravens
Parker's pick: Ravens
My pick: Ravens
The Colts have surprised to be here. Maybe amazed is a better word. After letting Peyton Manning go, they turned the offense over to overall top draft pick QB Andrew Luck. Luck and an improved defense have helped the Colts through the extended absence of Head Coach Chuck Pagano as he has battled leukemia. The Ravens are playing for respect. Ray Lewis is retiring after an injury-filled season. The defense is aging and the offense often struggles to score. Home field should be an advantage.
NFC
(5th Seed) Seattle Seahawks vs. (4th Seed) Washington Redskins
Parker's pick: Redskins
My pick: Seahawks
Outstanding rookie quarterbacks. Two teams surprised at how well their seasons have gone. The Washington offense is electric. The combination of RG3 and Albert Morris is one of the best rookie pairings in the history of the NFL. The Seattle defense is impressive. The don't simply tackle, they punish. Is RG3 completely healthy? Can the Redskins defense stop Russell Wilson? Should be an exciting game.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Predictions for Today's NFL Wildcard Games
AFC
(6th seed) Cincinnati Bengals at (3rd seed) Houston Texans
Parker's pick: Bengals
My pick: Texans
Houston struggled down the stretch, losing home field advantage in the playoffs during the final weeks of the regular season. Matt Schaub and the Texans defense must both play better this weekend than they have recently. The Bengals continue to improve as a team and get the opportunity to meet the Texans in the wildcard round of the playoffs for the second year in a row. Cincinnati, with injuries in the backfield, must have enough of a run game to keep from becoming one-dimensional.
NFC
(6th seed) Minnesota Vikings at (3rd seed) Green Bay Packers
Parker's pick: Packers
My pick: Packers
Adrian Peterson=amazing. After suffering a devastating knee injury at the end of last season, he fell just short of setting the NFL single season rushing record this year. As a result, the Vikings have surprised their opponents this season. The Packers are finally getting back to having a healthy roster. With all their weapons in place, the Pack is usually dominant.
(6th seed) Cincinnati Bengals at (3rd seed) Houston Texans
Parker's pick: Bengals
My pick: Texans
Houston struggled down the stretch, losing home field advantage in the playoffs during the final weeks of the regular season. Matt Schaub and the Texans defense must both play better this weekend than they have recently. The Bengals continue to improve as a team and get the opportunity to meet the Texans in the wildcard round of the playoffs for the second year in a row. Cincinnati, with injuries in the backfield, must have enough of a run game to keep from becoming one-dimensional.
NFC
(6th seed) Minnesota Vikings at (3rd seed) Green Bay Packers
Parker's pick: Packers
My pick: Packers
Adrian Peterson=amazing. After suffering a devastating knee injury at the end of last season, he fell just short of setting the NFL single season rushing record this year. As a result, the Vikings have surprised their opponents this season. The Packers are finally getting back to having a healthy roster. With all their weapons in place, the Pack is usually dominant.
Bowl Prediction: BBVA Compass Bowl
BBVA Compass Bowl
Pittsburgh (6-6) vs. Ole Miss (6-6)
Parker's pick: Pittsburgh
My pick: Ole Miss
Pitt started the season by losing two games and then winning two games and continued that pattern throughout the season to finish at .500. You might say the Panthers are erratic; you never know what to expect. Parker thinks the Pitt defense is key to this game. Ole Miss finished at 6-6 but lost to all the powerhouse teams you'd expect them to lose to. However, the Rebels seem to be an improving program under first-year coach Hugh Freeze.
Pittsburgh (6-6) vs. Ole Miss (6-6)
Parker's pick: Pittsburgh
My pick: Ole Miss
Pitt started the season by losing two games and then winning two games and continued that pattern throughout the season to finish at .500. You might say the Panthers are erratic; you never know what to expect. Parker thinks the Pitt defense is key to this game. Ole Miss finished at 6-6 but lost to all the powerhouse teams you'd expect them to lose to. However, the Rebels seem to be an improving program under first-year coach Hugh Freeze.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms
Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:
Turner: Oooo, meat juice.
Me: Do you mean the au jus?
Parker, in a fan letter he is writing to Washington Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III (RG3):
...I think you are the best player right now. My Dad and I have a fantasy team and our quarterback was Tom Brady. I have been trying to convince my Dad to draft you as our starting quarterback....
When Parker and Turner received their own individual Christmas cards in the mail from Nana and Papaw:
Turner to Parker: Why'd you get one with a puppy dog on it and I just got one with Jesus on it?
Turner: Oooo, meat juice.
Me: Do you mean the au jus?
Parker, in a fan letter he is writing to Washington Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III (RG3):
...I think you are the best player right now. My Dad and I have a fantasy team and our quarterback was Tom Brady. I have been trying to convince my Dad to draft you as our starting quarterback....
When Parker and Turner received their own individual Christmas cards in the mail from Nana and Papaw:
Turner to Parker: Why'd you get one with a puppy dog on it and I just got one with Jesus on it?
Bowl Prediction: Cotton Bowl
Cotton Bowl
Texas A&M (10-2) vs. Oklahoma (10-2)
Parker's pick: Oklahoma
My pick: Texas A&M
This should be great game between former Big 12 rivals. The outcome is a statistical toss-up. Texas A&M beat Alabama in Alabama; that's good enough for me.
Texas A&M (10-2) vs. Oklahoma (10-2)
Parker's pick: Oklahoma
My pick: Texas A&M
This should be great game between former Big 12 rivals. The outcome is a statistical toss-up. Texas A&M beat Alabama in Alabama; that's good enough for me.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Bowl Prediction: Fiesta Bowl
Fiesta Bowl
Oregon (11-1) vs. Kansas State (11-1)
Parker's pick: Oregon
My pick: Oregon
The revitalization project that Coach Bill Snyder has led at Kansas State is nothing short of amazing but the speed of the Oregon Ducks should make the difference in this game. It will be interesting to see if the rumors of Oregon Coach Chip Kelly having interest in possible NFL head coach openings has any effect of the outcome of this game. Outside of the National Championship game, this game is the highlight of the bowl season.
Oregon (11-1) vs. Kansas State (11-1)
Parker's pick: Oregon
My pick: Oregon
The revitalization project that Coach Bill Snyder has led at Kansas State is nothing short of amazing but the speed of the Oregon Ducks should make the difference in this game. It will be interesting to see if the rumors of Oregon Coach Chip Kelly having interest in possible NFL head coach openings has any effect of the outcome of this game. Outside of the National Championship game, this game is the highlight of the bowl season.
Great Quote Thursday
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.- The Once-ler in The Lorax (Dr. Seuss)
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Bowl Prediction: Sugar Bowl
Sugar Bowl
Florida (11-1) vs. Louisville (10-2)
Parker's pick: Florida
My pick: Florida
Louisville was headed toward an undefeated season until it was tripped us twice at the end of the year by lesser opponents. Charlie Strong, however, is building a solid program in the Bluegrass State.
Florida has surprised all season with only an 8-point loss to Georgia keeping it from an SEC championship game appearance that may have provided this very hot team with the opportunity to play Notre Dame for a national championship. In preseason, few expected the Gators to be this successful, and while disappointed to not be playing in a BCS championship game, Florida should be sufficiently motivated to take down Louisville.
Florida (11-1) vs. Louisville (10-2)
Parker's pick: Florida
My pick: Florida
Louisville was headed toward an undefeated season until it was tripped us twice at the end of the year by lesser opponents. Charlie Strong, however, is building a solid program in the Bluegrass State.
Florida has surprised all season with only an 8-point loss to Georgia keeping it from an SEC championship game appearance that may have provided this very hot team with the opportunity to play Notre Dame for a national championship. In preseason, few expected the Gators to be this successful, and while disappointed to not be playing in a BCS championship game, Florida should be sufficiently motivated to take down Louisville.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
31 Things to Pray for Your Children (1-10)
My Pastor, Hollie Miller, recently shared a list of thirty-one things that parents can pray for their children. With many months having 31 days, this is a great list from which to pray one item per day.
As we begin 2013, here are the first 10. The rest will follow in upcoming posts (#11-20 on January 11 and #21-31 on January 21).
1. Salvation- Acts 16:31
2. The Assurance of Salvation- I John 5:13
3. To Love and Obey Their Parents- Exodus 20:12
4. To Learn to Walk in the Holy Spirit- Galatians 5:16
5. Love for God's Word- Psalm 119:72
6. To Learn to Pray- Luke 11:1
7. Love for the Church- Hebrews 10:24,25
8. Faithfulness in Tithes and Offerings- Malachi 3:10
9. Sexual Purity- I Thessalonians 4:3
10. Salvation of Future Spouse- Matthew 7:7,8
As we begin 2013, here are the first 10. The rest will follow in upcoming posts (#11-20 on January 11 and #21-31 on January 21).
1. Salvation- Acts 16:31
2. The Assurance of Salvation- I John 5:13
3. To Love and Obey Their Parents- Exodus 20:12
4. To Learn to Walk in the Holy Spirit- Galatians 5:16
5. Love for God's Word- Psalm 119:72
6. To Learn to Pray- Luke 11:1
7. Love for the Church- Hebrews 10:24,25
8. Faithfulness in Tithes and Offerings- Malachi 3:10
9. Sexual Purity- I Thessalonians 4:3
10. Salvation of Future Spouse- Matthew 7:7,8
6 Bowl Predictions for New Years Day
Though I started with 6 straight correct picks, Parker has gotten the last 6 correct. As we transition to 2013 with our bowl selections, Parker (14-9) leads me (13-10) by one game. He also would be leading the CBSSports.com panel were he on it.
Gator
Mississippi State (8-4) vs. Northwestern (9-3)
Parker's pick: Mississippi State
My pick: Northwestern
Parker's says Mississippi State's passing game is the key. I think Northwestern's running game is key.
Heart of Dallas
Purdue (6-6) vs. Oklahoma State (7-5)
Parker's pick: Oklahoma State
My pick: Oklahoma State
The Cowboys should have more than enough offense. We're thinking possible blowout.
Outback
South Carolina (10-2) vs. Michigan (8-4)
Parker's pick: Michigan
My pick: South Carolina
Parker thinks Michigan's pass defense will make an impact. I think South Carolina's defense is the key.
Capital One
Georgia (11-2) vs. Nebraska (10-3)
Parker's pick: Nebraska
My pick: Georgia
Again, Parker picks Nebraska based on defense. Georgia's played well all season in the powerful SEC.
Rose
Stanford (11-2) vs. Wisconsin (8-5)
Parker's pick: Stanford
My pick: Stanford
The Cardinal don't have the greatest looking team statistics but they simply win games.
Orange
Florida State (11-2) vs. Northern Illinois (12-1)
Parker's pick: Florida State
My pick: Florida State
Too much Seminoles. Northern Illinois is 12-1 but there are better teams playing in non-BCS bowls.
Gator
Mississippi State (8-4) vs. Northwestern (9-3)
Parker's pick: Mississippi State
My pick: Northwestern
Parker's says Mississippi State's passing game is the key. I think Northwestern's running game is key.
Heart of Dallas
Purdue (6-6) vs. Oklahoma State (7-5)
Parker's pick: Oklahoma State
My pick: Oklahoma State
The Cowboys should have more than enough offense. We're thinking possible blowout.
Outback
South Carolina (10-2) vs. Michigan (8-4)
Parker's pick: Michigan
My pick: South Carolina
Parker thinks Michigan's pass defense will make an impact. I think South Carolina's defense is the key.
Capital One
Georgia (11-2) vs. Nebraska (10-3)
Parker's pick: Nebraska
My pick: Georgia
Again, Parker picks Nebraska based on defense. Georgia's played well all season in the powerful SEC.
Rose
Stanford (11-2) vs. Wisconsin (8-5)
Parker's pick: Stanford
My pick: Stanford
The Cardinal don't have the greatest looking team statistics but they simply win games.
Orange
Florida State (11-2) vs. Northern Illinois (12-1)
Parker's pick: Florida State
My pick: Florida State
Too much Seminoles. Northern Illinois is 12-1 but there are better teams playing in non-BCS bowls.
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