Friday: Tripps and DAVE'S

On Friday, Jana and I left Gatlinburg and headed to Ashville/Hendersonville, NC. We stopped in Ashville to eat at Tripps. Everything again was good - the atmosphere, service, the food. However, it wasn't something that I thought was a "gotta go back there" type of thing. They have locations in North and South Carolina as well as Virginia. 4 out of 5.

However, the next place we ate wasn't an eating establishment at all! However, it was probably the best place we ate on our entire trip. There was nothing formal about this place and we basically ate with our hands, but this is something that I really want to do again! Below are the 40 halves of chicken being prepared for the evening.

While getting our instructions from Kaye at Clear Creek Cabins, she informed us that her friend Dave had a pavilion just down the road and that he loves to feed, meet and entertain guests there. She also noted that he had been to Wal-Mart that day and she knew he had chicken for the evening and suggest we might want to go down for part of the evening. With a little coxing, we decided to go to "Dave's". Were we glad we did! Dave and the entire group was so inviting and gracious to both Jana and I. I had "pumpkin butter" for the first time in my life. Dave made 40 halves of chick for about 15 of us and two batches of biscuits - both of which were fabulous. They even had Diet Mt. Dew! We sat around the campfire and talked and listened to stories about WWII and so much more. We made new friends that we hope to visit again. Below, Jana and I pose for a picture which Dave took for us. 4.9999999999 out of 5 (remember, no one is perfect).

Dixie Stampede

Thursday evening we ate at the Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge. The entertainment was great and the food and service was even better! I am sure many of you who have been to the Stampede knew that there are no utencils to eat with. However, the soup, the chicken, the pork loin . . . everything was really, really good. The only mediocre item was the corn, and that was even okay. I would go back again just for the meal. The show and pre-show were fun and entertaining and I would go back again. I give the meal 4.9 out of 5 (no one's perfect) and the entire evening a 4.5.

Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon

Wednesday night we headed to the Alamo. As you can see, the steakhouse was voted best restaurant in Galinburg. I am not sure if it was the best, but, it was definitely better than most. I wasn't really impressed with the atmosphere but the "Oak Fired, Black Angus" steak I had was really good. I got it blackened while Jana doesn't like spicy foods and elected to have hers prepared regularly. Jana had been sick all day and had to take her steak home in a "doggie bag". We ate her steak the next night and it was almost as good the second night as the first. The service was top notch that night which made up for the atmosphere.

If you are going to Gatlinburg and want good steak, go to the Alamo. If you want good atmosphere, go somewhere else. I give it a 4 our of 5.

Aubrey's

Jana and I needed a good camera and decided to take some of the gift cards we received for our wedding and buy a digital camera. We decided on a Canon Powershot A1000. Jana was familiar with this camera and we thought it would serve the purpose. To do this, we had to travel about 40 minutes from our cabin and decided to have lunch at a place called Aubrey's in Maryville, TN. Their slogan is "Real Food. Real Comfort. Real Good." They did okay with most of that. The atmosphere was okay and the service that day was really good. They had the shelves around the dining room lined with #10 cans of vegetables and sauces, which was a bit unique to both Jana and I. The Steak I had, the center cut sirloin, was better than most. Jana had some really good pasta - the Haystack. It was the second day in a row that I ate creamed corn however, neither time was it as good as Aunt Thelma made. I could recommend Aubrey's to anyone but I don't think it would be first place on my list. I will give it a 3.5 out of 5 - which is above normal.

Remember: You are the reason for the Season . . . Christ came to take your (and my) punishment!

Mrs. Rowe's Country Buffet

This is the first of a series of posts about some new places Jana and I ate during our honeymoon. We determined to only eat at places we had never been before. Below you can see that we stopped just below Harrisonburg, VA for our first ever meal together as husband and wife. The place with that distinction is "Mrs. Rowes Country Buffet".

Being a buffet, we obviously had many choices. The item that stood out to me was the carved beef roast. While everything else was good, I went back the second time specifically for the beef. We obviously took a chance at this out of the way buffet, but the home style cooking was a good starter for both of us. It was nice but I wouldn't say I would drive out of my way to eat there again. I will give it 3 out of 5.

Places We Have Never Eaten

Jana and I took pictures of all the places we ate during our honeymoon. We tried, and accomplished, to only eat at places we had never eaten before. So, over the next few days I will post some of those pics and possibly comment on each. For now, we have to travel back to Central PA and get ready for Christmas.

Honeymoon Update - Not That it is Any of Your Business

A quick update . . . Jana and I are both feeling much better and have moved on to Clear Creek Cabins close to Ashville and Hendersonville, NC. We spent a fun evening with Dave and the gang eating and meeting new friends on Friday night. Yesterday we did some touring of Lake Lure, Castle Rock and Bat Cave (where the motto is "Bite Me!") and a little shopping. Today we went to First Baptist Church of Hendersonville and then to Square One Bistro for brunch (We have made it a goal NOT to eat at any restaurant we have been to before - so far, so good). We both checked our email and facebook pages while sitting in front of the Living Room Coffeehouse & Cafe and look forward to a quiet afternoon at the Cabin in the Woods. We begin our trek home tomorrow but not before we check out the Biltmore House in Ashville. We will only travel part way home on Monday and expect to be home to open presents at my house between 4 and 5 PM. Neither of us is looking forward to getting back to the real world but know it's reality.

Jana's Turn!

I feel MUCH better today, however, now it is Jana's turn to be sick and now it is my turn to take care of her. I am glad we decided to take 10 days for our honeymoon as opposed to a week. I think the extra sleep we got/are getting is probably a good thing. Too bad we are getting the sleep because of illness. Anyway, we had a really nice day yesterday and we both are looking forward to tomorrow and the rest of our time away.

Not the Wedding . . . The Honeymoon!!!

In my last post, I talked about getting sick for my wedding. Thank God I didn't! However . . . Monday on my honeymoon was a different story. I slept most of the day while my wonderful wife took care of me. I am not sure which is worse, getting sick for my wedding or getting sick for my honeymoon. You tell me. Comment if you would.

Barf

Everyone around me is getting sick! I can't get sick! That would be awful for Saturday. I sound like a girl. Suck it up Joel and deal with it! Either way you will be married.

Pre-Marital Counselling.

Today I have to go to pre-marital counselling. I have really come to appreciate this time. I enjoy learning about myself, Jana and our life together. However, the more I learn, the more I am responsible for. Just a thought.

Group Picture

What a great group of teens, young adults and leaders! Thanks for a stress-free week!

OCC 2008

The Work Continues

Working in the Special project line at OCC.

OCC Update

Just a short update. I really wanted to have pictures here for you but the photographers and I haven't connected yet. So, keep coming back.

The second wave of "OCCers" got here safely Thanksgiving night. All told, between the Grace Bible Church and our group we have 47 people here. And, there are a bunch of people fro of OCC shirts and church shirts. It's kind m all over the country at our hotel. All kindsof cool to see them all.

We had devotions and then we worked from 1 - 7 PM yesterday. There were more people today and processing seemed to go faster today. The new system they are using is much more of a team concept which I think is good. After supper, about half the group went to Carabou Coffee and Ben & Jerry's and then we hung out at the hotel.

Today we begin at 10 AM and then we have reservations at Buca Di Beppo. I love this Italian eatery so I can't wait! After Buca's, there will be some time for a little shopping before getting back to the hotel. It sounds like rain and snow for Sunday so we may leave a bit earlier than expected. (I love cell phones because kids can contact their parents as opposed to a phone tree like we used to do.) Overall, it has been a great trip! The kids have been great.

Working the Warehouse

Here is a short video of our group working in the Operation Christmas Child warehouse on Wednesday. More videos and pics coming soon . . . I hope.

Sorting Boxes

Some of our team sorting boxes on the line at the OCC warehouse.

We Made It To Charlotte

For those of you who are following us while we are in Charlotte we wanted you to know that we have arrived safely, unloaded the luggage and are getting ready for bed. We work tomorrow at the Operation Christmas Child Warehouse from noon to 7 PM. Come back for more information!

OCC Warehouse or Bust

We leave this afternoon for Charlotte, NC, a 10 hour drive, with a bunch of teens and young adults to work in the Operation Christmas Child warehouse on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. I am really looking forward to this trip as usual. You can stay connected if you like all week here on my blog. Please pray for us as we travel to and work in the warehouse.

Spam In NYC

Got to see Spamalot while in the city. Just another Spam event in my
life.

My Wife To Be - A Celebrity

I just wanted you all to know that Jana - my wife to be (24.5 days of freedom left) is going to be an "Affinity Group" leader at National Youth Ministry Conference in Columbus, OH. The conference is February 27 - March 2, 2009 and is sponsored by Simply Youth Ministry and Group Publishing. Her bio is on the NYMC website. Check it out here! I am so proud of her. She will also be the Emcee for two week-long Group Workcamps this summer. She loves teaching (she was a former Physical Education teacher) and speaking and hopes to do a bunch more of these kinds of events.

They are Giving It Away

Gas is below $2.00 in Richfield! Nice!!!

An Open Letter from Nineveh

I am writing from Nineveh. I need your help! I know you are the one God has chosen to help me and long for your presence. I can't wait to see what God is going to do here. I have been alone for a long time and can't wait to share my life and my ministry with someone who loves God and love me. I think things will be different for both of us but if God is in this, we will make it - and i know you know that.

I am not the only one from this fair town who is looking forward to your arrival. I have been surrounded by so many great people who are so excited about you coming to be my help mate. The people that I minister to here will just love you.

Thank you for following God in your trek in life - a trek that led you to me. Thank you for being willing to go, even when you have to leave so many poeple and things you love. Thank you for being you. I love you!!

And the Winner Is . . .

Twenty-three people voted on which country had the most visits since the inception of my blog. Obviously, most of the people either knew me or read "A Bunch of Stuff" because most knew that I had been in Hungary. However, there were only two people who voted for the correct answer and only one who commented about voting for the correct answer. That one person didn't sign their name! So, I don't have any idea who I should give the prize. I guess I will keep the money and offer double for the next contest. . . and who knows when that will be. Thanks for voting. Now for the answer. I was just as surprised as anyone that the most visitors from a country other than the U.S. was. . . SPAIN! I don't know who lives in Spain or why they frequent the blog, but here is the analyitcs:

1. United States 12,080
2. Spain 252
3. Canada 197
4. United Kingdom 136
5. Hungary 64

Look for more contests soon!

Thought of You, Josh Griffin

You probably have heard/seen this before, Josh, but I thought you and your website, www.theforce.net. Thanks to Spencer for the find. Enjoy!


Star Wars - A Cappella Tribute to John Williams from Teşekkür ederiz on Vimeo.

Baloons & Descipleship

Aaron taught everyone how to make dogs out of ballons as part of his
talk about descipleship last night. Fun!

The Things You Won't Do When You Are Getting Married!

This is not a good pic of me at all - it doesn't matter how well I am dressed.

All 50 States, 90 Countries and a Way to Win!

Soon after I started this blog I began to follow how long it would take until I got at least on visitor from every state in the Union. After weeks of watching, I kind of lost interest. This morning I couldn't sleep and found out that sometime in April of this year I had had a visitor from every state AND the District of Columbia. If you don't count D.C., I had 50 states in December of 2007. Just thought you should know.

By the way, there have been visitors on my blog from 90 different countries since I started. Obviously, the U.S. had the most visitors but who do you think was second. I will put up a poll for you to vote and then tell you next week. The countries to vote on will be Canada, Hungary, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Go to the right and vote as soon as it appears. After you vote, leave a comment on this post. A winner will be selected from the correct answers and they will recieve a $10 iTunes gift card or, for those who live close to me, $10 Cruiser's Cafe gift card. Have fun.

Trick or Treat

It's Halloween today.  A day in some people's lives for "tricks".  I remember doing some things when I was young (that I am not proud of now) during this time of the year.  I won't go into any details but luckily I was never caught.  Anyway, I thought this "trick" was humorous and not going to harm anyone and not and wanted to share it with you.  

A Few Liberty/ScareMare Pics

Below, a few of the girls who went with us to Liberty University and ScareMare reluctantly pose during the football game.

The Williams Stadium crowd (the student section in red) cheers as the Liberty Flames football team enters the field before their game with Charleston Southern. The Flames won 42 - 0.

Liberty University and Sacre Mare

Yesterday we travelled with our youth on what was supposed to be a 6 hour trip to Lynchburg, VA to Liberty University and "Scare Mare". The trip took a bit longer as we encountered two wrecks along the way holding us up well over hour. After we finally arrived, we witnessed the Flames destroy their opponents in football. Going to a nice place to eat was on the agenda next, however, the two hour wait for a party of 40 most places was much too long so I had to settle for Chic-fil-a. We headed to the hotel next and then to Scare Mare. If you ever go to Scare Mare, make sure you take 25 people and use the line slasher option. The wait in line would have been between 4 - 5 hours had we not made arrangements to "slash the line". The event itself we good as usual, especially with a bunch of freshmen girls! They do a good job here in preparing for the event. I think everyone had a good time and a number made some decisions that will effect their lives. As I write this, I am waiting to get ready to go to church at Thomas Road Baptist and then we will head home. I will post a few pictures later I hope.

Burger Bash 2008 Highlight Video

Last night we showed a video of the highlights of our Burger Bash the week before. I think it was successful as a "good time was had by all!" Enjoy the video.

Send Me a Text

Send me a text message. I would like to get some texts from you who follow my blog.
Try it!

Jana, Speaker Extraordinaire , Hits the Big Time!

Hey, my wife to be (I don't like the word fiancee - it's toooooo . . . . French?!?) Jana Grant, has hit the big time! She is on the National Youth Workers Conference web site! She will be an "affinity group" leader and I am sure she will do a great job. And . . . hopefully she will get a great room and since we will be married by then, I hope to be able to share that room!

By the way, if you need a great speaker for a variety of topics, Jana would do a great job for you. She loves speaking!

Richfield's O.C.C. Operation

Each year at this time our students begin to plan a trip to Charlotte, NC to the Operation Christmas Child warehouse to help process thousands of shoeboxes that go to children in third world and war torn countries. Recently, a group met with Representatives from Operation Christmas Child to discuss the project together and with the press. Here is an article from the Lewistown Sentinel about the meeting, Operation Christmas Child and the entire process. Please check it out . . . and get involved if you can.

Here is short excerpt:

Editor's note: "Spotlight on Sharing" is an ongoing series published in The Sentinel on the third Tuesday of each month. Featured are stories that focus on people and organizations who give back to the Juniata Valley in a meaningful way. Whether through the donation of time, resources, ideas or manpower, their efforts help make our community a place we are proud to call home.

RICHFIELD - A group of people in Richfield are passionate about putting the Gospel in a shoe box.

Each year hundreds of area churches participate in Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan's Purse, a Franklin Graham ministry.

Shoeboxes are filled with toys and basic grooming needs for children of all ages and sent around the world. A group in Richfield is striving to make sure more people participate and that they understand why the ministry is more than just handing a present to a poor child.

"It's more than gifts," said Vonna Knouse of Richfield, the Susquehanna Valley Area Coordinator for OCC. "It's an opportunity to share the Gospel."

Knouse and a handful of others met at a Richfield restaurant recently to discuss the importance of branching out with the project. National Spokesperson Mary Damron, also known as "Mama Gump," and Leigh Fisher of West Virginia, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, joined them.

Free Tickets for Football - Week Two

Below is a picture of the second FREE College football game I went to in two weeks. Bucknell University had their "Community Day" a couple of weeks ago. Free tickets are the best.

Money for Nothing!

I was looking for a Burger King commercial on "Reverse Pick Pocketing" for the youth Burger Bash next week when I found this video of someone who did if for real!?!

Jr. Hgh Day of Football

Most of the guys on the Jr. High football team before the SU game. We had a good day. It was good for them to see that we are basically doing the same stuff that they do. I have really enjoyed working with them this year.

Good Ending to a Great Day

Took this with my iphone after the Susquehanna University football game on Saturday night! We had a good day with the Jr. High team. We beat bucktail and then watch an exciting SU comback win followed by the fireworks display.

Jr. High Football Saturday - Break!

This is what happens when you have 44 guys on a team, you take them on a long trip and there is limited restroom space. Double click on the pic for a larger view.

Air Dummer!

I was looking a video on my youtube.com account for something we were planning for our youth group and found this video from Elet Szava - Word of Life, Hungary. Enjoy.

Lunch With Mama Gump

I had the opportunity to eat lunch with Mary Damron a.k.a. Mama Gump.
Mary is a national spokesperson for Operation Christmas Child and is
promoting the project. We had a lot of fun.

Skype Us Wednesday Nights

I am looking for some interesting people from across the country who would be willing to "Skype" with me and our youth on Wednesday nights. If you know anyone who is available Wednesday nights between 7 - 7:30 PM and who has, or is willing to get Skype, please let me know. I know this is a weird thing to blog about. . . but I am kind of weird. And, I need some ideas.

Did I do that?

It's true! I am getting married December 13. Along with getting married means I will have to learn to think for two and share things, etc. Today I was looking for a picture on my computer and came across 8 pictures like the one listed below that I am sure I didn't save. Then I remembered that Jana had been on looking for "stuff" one day. I guess I have had to share already. Not that I mind so much.

Fireproof, Again!

I saw the movie Fireproof again last night, this time with my fience, Jana and my mother and my niece. I was especially interested in what my mother would say. She has been to only a handful of movies at the theater and mostly has something critical about each one due to lanquage, sexual inuendo, etc. She was horrified at the movie "Gone With the Wind" for one word . . . which I won't reveal (as if you didn't already know). Anyway, she really enjoyed this movie and I think she might even go again. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and go. It has something for everyone.

I also recieved an email from the producers saying that on Friday night, Fireproof was the third largest grossing movies - with only showing in 839 theaters. It beat out 5 movies who were showing in 2500 theaters or more. Will Fireproof be number 3 at the end of the weekend? Possibly not. But, what a testamony to the movie industry!

For those of you who have seen it, please pray about who might need to see this movie! Take them. Buy the tickets and the popcorn! You never know what God has in store.

One Week Without Blogging!

I haven't blogged in a week. I think this is the longest I have gone without blogging since I began. There is a bunch of stuff I want to post about, but it will have to wait a day or so. Some of those things are Fireproof the movie, the start of the youth "Season" and the remodled youth room, a guy flying over the English channel, GOTO events at church, football stuff, Cruiser's Cruise In and Bike Night and sooooo much more. Keep checking back. I will be blogging again soon.

Go PSU

Kevin, Stephen and Justin intently watching Penn State beat Temple.

Traditions of Men

. . . "You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions! Mark 7:9

Get Your Tickets for Fireproof!

I just have to remind you about the movie "Fireproof" that is coming to 800 theaters nationwide on Friday, September 26. I got to see this movie at a preview in Maryland and really want you to consider, no, find the time, NO, make the time to go during the first weekend it is released. I laughed and, without sounding too sappy, I cried while watching Fireproof. Take your wife, husband and/or a bunch of friends to see this film. We want the powers that be to know that good films don't have to be raunchy to make money. I am even going to take my mother - and she NEVER goes to movies!

Talkin 'bout Hungary

Three months after our Mission trip to Hungary, people are still talking about it. Yesterday, Lauren Elsasser was featured in the Standard Journal newspaper. She talked about her part of the trip. I am pleased Lauren could go along with us and it was fun reading and reminiscing about our trip. Here is part of the article.

TRANSLATION, PLEASE — Lauren Elsasser, a senior at Meadowbrook Christian School,
displays some of the brochures, pamphlets, tickets, even a McDonald’s
tray-liner, all in Hungarian, she brought home from her missions trip over the
summer. The Mifflinburg teen said it was quite an experience to surround herself
in Hungary’s culture. She now has a greater appreciation for the U.S.

Read the entire article at www.hungary08.com

New Blog - Redskins Roost

It is rubbing off. This blogging thing has just caught another one of my friends! Justin Fogle has started his own blog. It is called Redskins Roost. He has just started. It is obviously about his favorite football team, the Washington Redskins. I think you should check it out. Click here.

New York Bretts!

Justin Fogle put me on to this video from yesterday (Sunday). ' New York Bretts" Bretty and the Jets". There is nothing like football. What a great game. Enjoy!

Big Football Night.

Tonight is a big night for football! The 7th & 8th grade football team I help coach plays their first game . . . and it is under the lights at Selinsgrove! We did okay at our scrimmage and I am hoping we got better because I am sure Selinsgrove will be out to knock us off - of course, isn't that the idea? We are hoping for big things from some of these kids and we will need it against a good program.

It is also the beginning of the NFL season! Tonight at 7 PM the Giants and the Redskins will play the first game of the year. Hopefully I will get home in time to watch the end of the game. I don't really care who wins the game. I just love to watch football. However, despite what some might say, I don't HAVE to watch it. But I do like it.

Visiting a Newborn/Mother/Father in the Hospital

Hey, go to Jana's Blog and vote. She has a poll running about if you HAVE to go the hospital or not when someone has a baby. You can read about the poll here. I would love to give you my side of the "argument" but I won't since Jana didn't dwell tooooo much on her side. Suffice it to say, I love the first comment by Lisa. Whichever side you are on, go vote.

A "Grand" Tip

Watress gets $1000 tip. Found this at Cruiser's Web site. I am sure the "Cruiser's Girls" would love a tip of $1000! Check it out.

Shikallamy Overlook

Jana and I, along with some friends spent an evening together a few weeks ago. Part of the time we spent at Shikellamy State Park Overlook above the Susquehanna River. I took a couple pictures with my phone and thought I would share them with you. That's sounds so corny. "A good time was had by all." (That was for those of you who remember the Richfield News in the Juniata Sentinel.)

Tiger Football Jr. High

Here are the young men I get the privelege to work with during the week. Just thought you should see the guys who have slowed my posts.

“Now you have to be punished because you excel at something?”

This is getting pathetic. A nine year old is told he can't pitch because he is too GOOD!?! Check out this article from the New Haven Register about Jericho Scott, the nine year old pitcher who can throw a 40 mph fastball and why some don't want him to pitch.

Yes He Did!

I know I haven't been a very good blogger lately - pretty sporadic. However, now that football two-a-days are over, I hope to have a bit more time.

Today I took Jana for her last of 5 treatments at the hospital. The nurse she had to put the IV in was explaining to me why they heat the hand before the put the needle in. She explained that when your body gets cold the blood goes to the internal parts of the body first. She then said that when a pregnant woman doesn't eat enough, the baby gets food first. After about a minute of silence, she said, "Whoever created this universe did a wonderful job." Yes He did!

Word Searches That Led to My Blog

I have seen others post some keywords that led people to their blog. As I was checking those out for the past month for my blog, I thought I may as well post some of my favorites from the past 30 days as well.

1. babycakes productions
2. pipe cleaner art
3. funniest twitters
4. salty sands
5. a9157ab25f82d224f464b19bb3c7850c (seriously, it was there)
6. how to deal with cocky men
7. out side elevator/pictures
8. sun drop golden cola
9. how to teach english in hungary 2008
10. dutch days richfield pa

Who am I?

Cool video from a church choir who wanted to do something different. Enjoy!

World's Strongest Juggler Coming to Richfield!

Juggler Bob - the Worlds Strongest Juggler will be in Richfield on Sunday, September 7. He will be at our Rally Day in the morning (9:15 AM) and then in the Family Life Center at 7 PM. Here is a promo video about Bob.

Baptism Last Night

More Camp Video - "You're a 10!"

I promised more camp videos and here's the next one. Enjoy! The best part about this video is the end. Thanks girls in cabin 5 for making my day!

Billy the Early Years Movie

I have been talkig a lot lately about movies, etc. but there is one more that I want you to know about. It is about Billy Graham and it is called "Billy: The Early Years" Check out the trailer on the official web site. The movie is set to come to theaters on October 10.

Camp Video Number 4

I forgot to add this video from camp. Look for at least two more soon.

On the "Golf Cart Wagon"

Okay, I am going to finally do what so many people have been doing lately . . . buy a golf cart! My brother-in-law and nephew have been buying,selling and fixing golf carts the past few years and I have finally decided to purchase one. It seems like with gas prices the way they are, everyone is trying to save a little here and there. Check out this from MSNBC . . .

My Review of Fireproof

Friday night I travelled two hours to see a preview of the newest movie from Sherwood Pictures - "Fireproof". This project is a really good, entertaining and thought-provoking movie. It is funny yet serious. It has action and drama. There is something for the guys and the girls. I had tears in my eyes on numerous occasions and the next minute I was laughing out loud. The unforeseen twists were an added delight and the imagery in the cross scene was really powerful. Everyone should see this movie!!! However, as much as I would love to see that happen, I can't help but think that most movie-goers will want to pass over this. It is blatantly evangelistic and uncompromisingly moral - two more good reasons for everyone to see it. And yet, without being asked to go, will people pay to go see it? I pray they will. If they do go, I think they will walk away entertained and encouraged. Below is a behind the scenes look at Fireproof. You can check out the trailer here. Please go and see this movie on September 26 and after . . . and take some people along. You will be glad you did.

You Can Preview "Fireproof"

Before I write my review about "Fireproof" the movie, I would like tell those ministry leaders here is PA that there is still time to preview the movie before it comes to theaters. I am sure you will like it and hopefully they will give you a little trivia about the film as well. If you would like to sign up to preview Fireproof on August 12 in the Scranton area, click here. Look for my review coming soon.

Fireproof Movie Preview Tonight

I scored two free tickets for tonight to see a preview of "Fireproof", the newest movie from the producers of "Facing the Giants". I am really excited about seeing the movie, however, it would probably be cheaper for me just to wait until it comes to the local theater. I have to travel about an hour and 45 minutes to get to the theater where it is being shown. The gas alone will be more expensive than two tickets. Anyway, I am going and taking a fellow youth pastor who I haven't seen for a while. I would have taken someone else, however, she is on a missions trip and won't be home until tomorrow - not that you needed to know all that. I am sure some were thinking about it. Anyway, I will write my review soon.

One Week Without a Post!

While some of you are frustrated, others are amazed that it has been one entire week without a post from me. It wasn't on purpose. I have just not taken the time out of my busy schedule to post. I really haven't thought about it . . . much. However, after today my life may slow down just a little and hopefully I will be back to regular posts. I do have a bunch of stuff to post but that doesn't mean it will get done. Keep checking in. I am sure you will find something you enjoy soon.

An Fternoon At the Water Park

A couple campers pose fora picture while taking a break from the slides.

Camp Day One

Here is the video we showed the kids on Monday Night. It is a highlight video from the first day.

Safety Rules for the Lake

Here is one of the videos we played this week. I am working on getting the others loaded too. I am kind of busy this week. Everything is going great!

iphone Blend

I posted a will it blend before. I thought this was fun.

Friends at Dutch Days

Here are two reasons I enjoy Dutch Days . . .



Annette is on the left and Becky is on the right. I rarely see either (Becky more since her daughter went with us to Hungary and her son has been involved in our RC ministry) much. However, I can almost always see them both at Dutch Days. Annette, my cousin, and I spent a lot of time together with friend growing up. It was nice to see them both.

The Day the Lights Went Out In Richfield

I don't have a long time to post today. I have to get the soda ready for the soda stand for tonight and get a bunch of other stuff done as well. But I am a little concerned about the fact that in the past two months I have been with people who were riding some sort of amusement rides when they stopped prematurely. Last month it was in Budapest at VidamPark and last night it was at Dutch Days. My little nephew, Isaac, was riding his first ever ride, the train, when all of a sudden the power to all the rides went out! It was quite humorous as I looked at the people at the top of the Ferris Wheel and remembered my friends who were on the roller coaster in Hungary. I have decided to post that video below for those who haven't seen it.



By the way, Isaac didn't seem to mind that the train stopped. He was having a grand time until . . . they came to take him off.

You Didn't Just Say "Carnival"!?!

This week is Dutch Days in our little town of Richfield, PA. During the hours of 6 - 11 PM our population will go from 700 ? to thousands of people and I am not sure exactly why they all come. But I do know what it means to me. "Richfield Dutch Days" is our town's celebration of its founding - now ALMOST 200 years ago. There are rides, good food, exhibits, contests, entertainment and a bunch of people at Dutch Days. But it is so much more than that. As you can see, I haven't used the word carnival at all. Because we don't think it is a carnival. What most people who have grown up in Richfield remember as a carnival was a travelling group who would come for a period of time with peep shows and freak shows and their rigged games, etc. The word obviously has a very negative connotation. Most people look at our four days as a homecoming celebration. If you have lived in Richfield at all over the past 40 years and for some reason have moved away, the week of Dutch Days is generally when you plan to come home for a visit. It is during this week that you will see the most people. I have family members who are coming from as far away as North Carolina this week. And others will come from farther away. I will see people I have seen since last Dutch Days and/or many more years ago. I look forward to reminiscing with these people. Yes there are those who come to Dutch Days just to ride the rides, eat cheap (but very good) food, and listen to the entertainment. Most would go to any carnival that is around at the time. But if you are a native of Richfield, this week is so much more, and I can't wait!

By the way, the web site they have set up for Dutch Days does not do the event much justice. However, it does give all the necessary information for the week.

Take Me Out To the Ballgame

Digital Dash Winners

We had a great time last night at our "Digital Dash" for the youth. Good turn out and some very creative pictures. Basically, kids were put into teams and given 90 minutes to take pictures that were handed out to each team. Each picture was worth points with bonus points for certain things. Below is the winning team. They each got 20 free downloads on itunes compliments of the Creation festival and a generous parent.



You could see more pics on the RMYouth group page on Facebook.

Kosek Does the Weather

I love the way this guy reports the weather. I am sure some don't like his irreverent (seems like I am stuck on this term or some form of it) ways
but I think he makes things enjoyable. I am sure he would get better ratings - I wouldn't post him if he did the weather in a "reverent" way.

Weather Forecast | Weather Maps | Weather Radar

Rev

I haven't been a very good blogger lately. I have been trying to catch up from our mission trip to Hungary, getting our camp for kids ready, planning and advertising Wednesday night meetings and other youth events, getting ready for Dutch Days, calling Jr. High football players, planning church services, etc. Not complaining, just giving information.

This morning I am going to Aaron's ordination "proceedings". Although it is probably necessary, I am not sure how Biblical this whole thing is. I am sure I have a lot of people who will disagree, but, most of the men who will sit on this board have very little contact with Aaron. How can they know, in a short time frame, if he is capable of being "Ordained". Maybe I am anti-establishment? I am happy for Aaron and think he should have the official title of "Rev." (However, there are many who would say that there is no man that should be revered, only God. I on the other hand obviously think this is a man-made institution and you can call it whatever you want.) I ALSO KNOW HIM AND HAVE SEEN HIS CHARACTER AND HIS APTITUDE. At the same time, I am not ordained and even though I am invited to the "examination" I am not really one who can give him the title. I don't normally like to post negatively and/or give this much opinion, but today, with everything else going on, I just feel like I can. Just so you know, I can probably be persuaded to think differently and would be willing to dialog with anyone. However, these are my thoughts today.

Ricfield Dutch Days

Our quiet little town will celebrate its founding in two weeks at "Dutch Days" July 16 - 19. Thousands of people will attend this annual event which will begin its 40th year with the Community Church Service at Basom Park on July 13 at 7 PM. I just found out this morning that they have made a web site for the event. Click here to get all the information.

The Popularity of the Text

My sister points to the number of times her teenage daughter sent and/
or recieved text messages in a month. My picture is blurry but it says
over 8500 times. I have read that texting is the number one way teens
communicate. I believe it. Thank goodness for unlimited text plans!

You're Going To Do What???

I have been trying to teach the game of baseball to 18 Hungarian children aged 9 - 12 this past week. Most have never played the game and none know much about it. They just don't play it here much. And, I know why baseball isn't as big in Europe as in the United States. (By the way, I am a bit thick and it takes me a while to catch on sometimes.) The Major League Baseball games don't start normally until after midnight here - and when the game is on the West Coast . . . well they might catch the last inning when they get up in the morning. This realization came about this week when my room mate, an avid Phillies fan, set his alarm and woke up at 4AM to watch his team play - thanks to MLB Online and my computer. Luckily, I like to sleep with the TV on so it didn't keep me awake. He was happy, the Phightin Phil's broke their 6 game losing streak and won the game! Unfortunately for him, they lost again the next day.

Latest Babycakes Media Production

Here is a short film we made during our free time at Hungary the past two weeks.

Camp Bonfire

Here's a quick pic of the bonfire from last night. It has been a good
trip. I am starting to think about being home.

My iphone Just Got Pimped!?!

Thanks to one of my new Hungarian iphone loving friends, I now can zoom in to take a picture and shoot video! Truthfully, I am not sure what all we did today, I just know I really love the new Apps I can download for my phone. If you have any questions, get them to me before I leave on Saturday.

Incredible Response

I put up a video last night (afternoon for you in the U.S.) on the www.hungary08.com blog about the response to the Gospel at the Word of Life Camp here in Hungary. It was incredible! These kids come from all kinds of families - from wealthy to poor; one, two or no parent homes - but they come with a need for Christ. It was amazing to see the amount of kids who stood up and wanted to know Jesus Christ. That's why we are here. Check it out here.

American Football in Budapest

I had an awesome opportunity to go see an American Football game in Budapest on Saturday night. It was crazy getting there. We took the bus and missed our stop and had to walk back over 4 miles to catch the train. This made us about 35 minutes late for the game. It (the game) was pretty slow but cool to know that there is actually an American football team here. The crowd was obviously small but very into the game. Everything was translated into English and even the referees had mics and spoke English! The passing game was pretty much non-existant and tackling needed some work. But, it really seemed like the guys playing really enjoyed being there and so did I.

Coaster Ride Excitement at Vidam Park

While at Vidam Park yesterday some of the group rode their "Looping Star" Roller Coaster ride. I thought it would be cool to get some video of the ride from someone who is on the ride. So nine people got on to ride again (there were NO lines at all). Here was the result. . .

Going Racing At Vidom Park

The guys get ready to race while at Vidom Park in Budapest. The park
is kind of "old school" but fun anyway. Look for video about the
Shooting Star "accident". Good stuf.

Differences Between Here and There

Things are different around the world. We all know that. I think the differences are very interesting. Other than the obvious, like language, currency, electricity, etc. here are a few differences here in Hungary.

There is no diet soda in Hungary . . . it is all called "light". i.e. Pepsi Light, Coke light, etc.

Calories are called "Energy" - I like that much better. We all need energy, so we should eat a bunch of them. In the United States we are not supposed to eat a lot of calories.

Oscar found out that McDonalds won't make a special order for him and you have to pay for the extra ketchup.

Lunch is the BIG meal of the day. Breakfast and Supper are mostly made up of bread, processed meat and cheese with cereal. The bacon is not cooked - and they eat it that way.

Toilet paper is brown?

Coffee is more like expresso.

If you take a girl on a date three times you are basically engaged to be married.

Gas is over $8.00 a gallon.

No one uses ice.

I'll let you know as I find other differences. Check out www.hungary08.com for more information about our trip.

400th Blog Post!

This is my 400th post since I begain a little over a year ago! Actually, I have nothing exciting to post about as I am waiting until my 500th post to talk about my favorites. I am glad that you have followed my posts and I hope you will continue to check it out. I really want it to be entertaining and right now I think this post is getting boring so I will stop.

Oscar And Seth Eat Octopi

Oscar and Seth are seen here trying baby octopus at lunch on Sunday. I
don't think it will happen again.

Church In Budapest

We were able to go to church this morning in Budapest. Here, the choir
sings. Check out www.hungary08.com for other updates.