July 4th Celebration

We are in Cincinnati this weekend for the Fourth. We enjoyed the day with the Honeycutts and then today we are going to Ikea and then home. Jess is taking Katelyn's senior pictures right now as I write. Here are some pics from the event.


Here is lil Bobby hitting bombs out of the yard. We played a little home run derby.


Here's Bethany the game nazi.


I think this picture is extra special.

Some Happenings

Jessica and I have had a busy week and are looking at a busy week ahead. We've been waiting impatiently to close on the house we are renting. We made an offer three months ago and there has been some tie ups along the way. Anyways, we hope to close this week. After we close, I'll dedicate a post to pictures and drawings of what we hope to do to the house.

Jess went to the doctor today. Everything is normal. She is now 31 weeks along! Our small group is renting a pontoon boat in August and we were very much hoping to join them...but the doctor has suggested that we don't. With Jess' high blood pressure problems, she's nervous that Jess might go early. Anways, please continue to pray for us as we get ready for parenthood.

We are still looking for childcare for when Jess goes back to work. We had an interview with a girl last weekend...but she didn't show up. We've looked at two daycares...they have been dumps. So, we've got a couple more leads...please pray for us as we look for quality childcare at an affordable price :-)

Tonight we are hosting BJ and his small group guys as they pass through town to do some whitewater rafting. Three teenagers and three adult men all cramped like sardines in our house...hopefully everyone survives.

This weekend we are headed towards Cincinnati for the 4th. We're really excited to hang out with old friends. We'll post some pics when we get back.

Kindness and Forgiveness

I think the hardest part of forgiving someone is active forgiveness. I can say, "I have forgiven him/her," but its really hard to act in forgiveness. One way that Brian Jones suggests actively forgiving is through kindness. Now, when I first read this I thought, "Sure I can be kind to those I need to forgive." However, when I got to thinking about it, I realized that its not that hard to act nice and kind to our enemies (aka those we need to forgive) as it to deliberately find kind things to do for our enemies. So, I'm processing how I can deliberately show kindness to those I need to forgive. Feel free to post some ideas if you think of any.

I am in the process of buying a book (I haven't bought it but I want to) called The Shack by William Young. Its a pretty controversial book right now and I'm in no way suggesting it for reading...but I'm told its pretty good. Its written in a fictional way. Anyways, I'll let you know what I think as I read it. I appreciate the comments from some of you who are also on the journey to forgive. I just encourage you to continue on it. Read, pray, study, and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance as you move along. That's all for now...

Our Babies

Jess took some cute pictures of our babies...here they are...


Leo got a haircut. He looks so much better. He also smells a lot better!


This is the first time I've ever seen Belle lay on a pillow. Weird. She usually prefers to lay on blankets or plastic.

My apologies to the Reds

Just want to apologize to all Reds fans for the Jinks I passed their way by posting the previous blog. That's all.

My Thoughts on a Blockbuster Trade and other Sports Related Stuff You Probably Don't Care About

Ok, lets be honest...its not blockbuster. However, its huge for the Pacers. I LOVE O'neal and wish he would have worked out in Indy. But, he was part of that awful melee in Detroit with Artest and Jackson, which led to the eventual tumbling of this Eastern Conference powerhouse. He made way too much and left the Pacers with no cap room for 2009. Now, Bird can start the rebuilding process and hopefully start building around some young talent in Danny Granger and Dunleavy. The Pacers have historically picked well in the draft and hopefully tonight that trend will continue. I'm hoping they grab one of the big men in the draft to replace O'Neal. I like Hibbert, Lopez, and Koufos. It would be wise of them to grab a point guard at the 17th pick to back up Ford, who like O'Neal, has a history of injury problems. I'm a dork, but I'll probably watch the draft tonight...while flipping back to watch the best pitcher in the National League face the Blue Jays.

Speaking of Volquez. What a pitcher! When the Reds faced Boston, many thought he would crumble under pressure...nope...7IP 2ER and 9SO! So, his next start was against the red-hot Yankees...crumble?...nope...7IP 2ER and 5SO. With the exception of his first three games (Baker seeing what he could do), he has given the Reds 6 innings of quality pitching in EVERY START. He should get the nod at the all-star game to start or follow Webb.

Anyways, I'm taking a break this week from blogging about forgiveness to blog about sports. I hope to start a new book on the subject. I enjoyed reading Getting Rid of the Gorilla and hope that if you are looking to forgive someone you'll take some time to read it. I'm out...gotta get back to writing a new sermon series.

Indianapolis Baby Shower

Jeremy and I just got back from our baby shower in Indianapolis. We had a great time and his sister Shelley did a great job hosting it! Here are a few pics. This is Shelley preparing the riblets we had.
Jeremy had to put a diaper on a bear while blindfolded. He did pretty good except I think he put it on backwards!
We love our new diaper bag, thanks Shari!!

And as promised.....

O.K. Here it is (Bethany and Mindy). This is me at 7 months.

Cincy Baby Shower

Sorry I haven't posted any pictures yet, I've been busy. Here are just a few shots of the shower in Cincinnati. This is so cute!
Amberlee made this cake herself. It was awesome - thanks Amberlee!
Hangin out
The last time we took a picture like this Mindy was pregnant with Allen. Now Allen is in the picture and I'm pregnant w/Eli! Crazy!
The shower was so much fun - thanks everybody that came, it was so great to see you. A special thank you to everybody that helped, you know who you are and I love you all very much!

Don't Buy American

Ok, maybe that's a little harsh...but Thursday our A/C Compressor Clutch when out in our Jeep. That's now three times we've had this thing in the shop since we bought it. (Including two days after we bought it when the 4X4 went out) My dinky little Zx2 only had one shop visit. Anyways, if you know anything about cars you know that the A/C Compressor controls the air conditioning. So, as several self-proclaimed mechanics have told me, "Just don't use the air conditioning!" Well, the clutch is off balance, which means we've got metal rubbing against metal even when the air is turned off. I can't drive it more then 8 miles before the smell of burning metal and smoke causes me to pull over and let it cool down. So, Tuesday I have to get the whole compressor replaced. I'll never buy a General Motors vehicle again. Sorry, all of you hard working Americans...maybe they should focus more on building a decent car instead of snazzy names and onstar capabilities.

Ok, I feel better. Thanks for letting me vent.

Jessica is back from her business trip/family trip. So, things hopefully will slow down enough for us to post some pics from our Cincy trip. We're looking forward to this weekend. My sister is throwing us a baby shower in Indianapolis. Hopefully, I'll see some of you there! I better get back to work...blog at you later...

UPDATE: I'm an idiot and just realized that Jeep is a Chrysler product. I still won't buy GM or Chrysler again for that matter!

Man in the Mirror

I've continued to read Getting Rid of the Gorilla by Brian Jones. What really spoke to me was his chapter on forgiving oneself. Guilt, Jones explains, has two faces. One face is God-inspired guilt that leads to repentance. The Holy Spirit convicts me of sin, which leads me back to God. The guilt I feel when I sin is the Holy Spirit poking me in the gut. I then go to God asking for forgiveness and He forgives.

However, for me there is always a guilt that follows this exchange. Jones calls this phantom guilt. "Man, I can't believe I did that." "Why do I do that?" These are the comments that immediately follow God's incredible forgiveness of my sin. I humbly ask God to forgive me and then proudly do not accept His forgiveness. Then for days or weeks I beat up on myself for failing.

I'm not sure if I'm alone in this struggle. But, I believe that my journey towards forgiveness begins with looking in the mirror and forgiving myself. "Jeremy, let it go. God has forgiven you." These are the hardest words to say. But, releasing myself of past sins will help me to release others of their sins against me.

A New Journey

Recently, I (Jeremy) have been involved in a pretty intense Bible Study. In this Bible Study, we've been studying about drawing our hearts closer to God. I've learned that everyone has wounds that go deep to the heart. Some have wounds that are small and some are big. Anyways, I've been asking God to reveal to me wounds in my heart that keep me from drawing close to Him. I believe that He's telling me that I have unforgiveness in my heart. Now, before you think I've gone crazy or having an emotional breakdown, remember that this is a blog and its hard to put into words this journey. I'm talking about the journey that God takes all of us on towards spiritual growth and maturity.

My journey starts with forgiveness. I decided to start reading a book on the subject and I came across a wonderful book by Brian Jones: Getting Rid of the Gorilla. If you have ever struggled with unforgiveness, this is a great read. Anyways, I'm going to post a few blogs here and there that will share with you some of the highlights of my journey towards forgiveness.

Two days ago, he opened by eyes towards a passage of scripture in which I've always struggled. Jesus says in Matthew 6:14-15, "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Jones also struggled with this passage and couldn't understand the meaning behind it. How could God really not forgive someone who doesn't forgive? I mean, I understand if you cut me off in traffic and I don't forgive, how this could apply. But, what about the father who's daughter was molested? What about wife who lost her husband to a drunk driver? How can we expect them to forgive?

Jones found some relief as he really dug into the Greek. Aphiemi is the Greek word here that as a verb is translated "to forgive." He found out that there are 142 instances in the New Testament. 45 of those instances the writer uses it to describe the sense of releasing something closely held or trapped. If you think about it, forgiveness is nothing more then releasing. If you owe me 5 bucks, I have the option to release (or forgive) you of that debt. Jesus Christ died to release or free us from the penalty of death. Now read that passage using the word "release."

I believe the reason God does not "forgive" us when we don't "forgive" others, is because until we release others, we ourselves are held captive by bitterness, rage, hate, and all other sorts of sins. Jesus is saying, release others so that you can be released as well. I'm working towards releasing people who have caused me pain in my life. Do you know someone who needs to be released as well? Ask God to reveal that person to you, so that you aren't held captive by your unforgiveness.

Sorry for the long post and horrible grammar. I'll do better next time and it'll be shorter...especially since I won't need to explain why I'm writing.

Ken Griffey Jr (and some other thoughts)

Kurt Snibbe at ESPN's Page 2 did a nice little cartoon that illustrates Junior's legacy. I was at birthing class and missed the home run. I had been watching (and listening) to as many games as possible to make sure I got to hear it. Oh well, being prepared to have a baby is really more important. (Seriously, no sarcasm.) Anyways...I'm happy for Griffey and glad he made it to such an elite club. In my opinion, Griffey should go down as the greatest player in my generation. He'll definately be mentioned among the greats: Ruth, Aaron, Robinson, and Williams. While Barry Bonds wrestles with the feds and Sosa remembers that he can speak English, Junior will quietly and unanimously walk into the hall of fame as a first balloter.

Jess is headed out of town today. Her employer is sending her to a conference on addictions in Morgantown, WV. She'll spend the weekend with her family in Beckley.

We just got back from Cincy. I was hoping to post some pics...but we haven't had a chance to sit down and upload them. Hopefully, we can get that chance here soon. Thanks to Sheryl and Bethany for planning the baby shower and for those who got us so many wonderful items. And also to Bob, Justin, and AJ who kicked my butt in golf. Seriously, I had fun. You all rock!

Some Random Thoughts

Jessica and I went to a friends house last night to play some Wii Olympics (fun times). They are a recently married couple and 8 months pregnant. She was at Starbucks last week and the lady at the counter actually said these words to her: "You're not going to have that thing here are you?" To make matters worse, she obviously thought she was making a joke and decided to go on and say things like: "So, are you having a boy or a girl?" "Have you picked out a name?" and stuff like that. Why do people get so weird around pregnant people?

Don't you hate it when you buy toilet paper from Sam's Club and then six months later you realize that you don't have an endless supply like you thought you did when you bought the 1000 roll pack from Sam's Club? It's so deceiving!

We are watching a friends dog this week. Cosmo. Cosmo is a black lab/pointer mix. She's a wonderful dog as long as no one comes over. She's very quiet and nice. However, as soon as someone comes over she becomes ultra-hyper like a pomeranium or chihuahua. Belle hasn't come out of hiding much. I don't think we can scar her anymore then she's already scarred. She is the spawn of satan you know...

I'm waiting for the bug guy to come by the Church. I told him I think I found some roaches. He looked around and didn't see any indication that I had seen any roaches. Then he proceeded to explain what kind of bug I probably saw. So, I killed some roaches last week and bagged them up. They've been sitting in my office. Hopefully, no one thinks I'm weird. But, he has to be shown the error of his ways, even if this costs me my job because visitors visited our Church only to find the minister had a bag of roaches sitting on his desk. Anyways, that concludes Jeremy's random thoughts for the day.

The Lady and Son's

This is Jess blogging now - I wanted to write my own review of the Lady and Son's before Jeremy got the chance. For those of you who may not know, the Lady and Son's is Paula Deen's restaurant and it's the main reason why we (o.k., I) chose Savannah for our vacation. I would just like to say that this restaurant was fantastic! If you like southern food, it can't be beat. If you are a northerner like Jeremy and can't appreciate fine southern cuisine, it's probably not worth the wait. So...here it is... You saw the line on the blog below, here is the sign. The restaurant is three stories tall, we ate on the third floor. You can order off the menu or get the buffet, each floor has it's own buffet, all the same food though.
The only reservations left after standing in line for a really long time was 5:00 and 8:45. So we took the 5:00 and arrived as dinner was starting. We all had to stand across the street and wait for our name to be called. Before they start calling names a guy comes out and rings the dinner bell and yells "Come and get it". Jeremy thought it was hokey, I thought it was fun. Such a stick in the mud, that one.
So this is me eating the deliciousness. It was THE BEST fried chicken I have ever had in my life. I also really liked the mashed potatoes, green beans, yams, and banana pudding. I sampled the low country boil and creamed corn which were o.k. I did not care for the mac and cheese or fried green tomatoes. We were also served garlic and cheese biscuits (Red Lobster's is better) and hoe cakes which are like mini pancakes. The sweet tea was fabulous and I'm gonna try to re-create it. We left stuffed for a really long time. So, don't listen to Jeremy when he tells you it wasn't good b/c it was awesome and totally worth the hour and a half wait. I also went next door to the gift shop and picked up another cook book which was great b/c all of the cookbooks were autographed. O.K. that's it, I'm done raving about the Lady and Son's.

Savannah Trip

Wednesday we left for Savannah GA. Here are a few pics from the trip...


First we went to Tybee Island, which is outside of Savannah. It was a little overcast and the ocean was cold, but we still had a great time. My back still somehow got burnt.


Next, we went to Savannah. Our hotel was really nice, but our bed broke as soon as we placed our stuff on it. Evidently, it was just put in and whoever installed it didn't do a very good job. So, they upgraded us to a freakishly huge suite! We were on the top floor, with a jacuzzi tub, and a balcony (one of like six rooms with a balcony). It rocked! So, we went down to River Street. This is a picture of River Street. Very cool...lots of shops, live music, and restaurants.


The next morning we stood in line to go make reservations for Lady and Sons Restaurant. We got there 1/2 hour before they opened and this is the line that was there. It took us an hour and a half before we got to make reservations.


Afterwards we got breakfast and walked around Savannah. Its a beautiful city. Here's a fountain in one of the many parks.


That evening we ate at Lady and Sons. More about the food of Savannah later...


After dinner we went on a horse drawn carriage ghost tour of Savannah. Its the most haunted city in the United States. Then that evening we went back down to River Street for some more live music.

Saturday we went to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Its huge...here are a few pics...


Sing it with me, "Baby Beluga in the deep blue sea..."


Jess touching a sting ray. Evidently, the GA Aquarium is incredibly busy on Memorial Day weekend. If you are planning to go, go on a Tuesday or on a non holiday weekend.


Jellyfish...its like we're swimming with it!

Happy Anniversary

I would like to wish my beautiful wife of 6 years a happy anniversary. It has been the best years of my life and I look forward to many more to come. I love you Jessica!

A Small Scare

Jessica and the baby are healthy. After writing the title, I realized that it might actually sound like we had a serious "small scare." I'm not kidding, it was really small, but still scared us. On Thursday, at 6:30pm our power went out! Jessica and I were heading out to Walmart and stopped by our neighbors to drop off a package (Fed Ex guy couldn't read our house number). Their power went out while I was standing in the doorway talking to them. They called me about an hour later to say it still wasn't on. Luckily, our friends Jason and Deanna invited us over to their house to watch The Office season finale. Which rocked by the way! Jessica has been quoting lines from it all weekend. Our power ended up coming on at 8:45, but I would have been at home shaking and biting my nails in the dark if it weren't for Jason and Deanna. I can't wait till next season!

We had a great weekend. Jess and I went on a date Friday night to see Prince Caspian. Great movie! I've got the Narnia series sitting on my bookshelf to read...and I think I'm going to read it now. Saturday we had a "throw stuff away" day at Church. We cleaned out a ton of junk that's been sitting around for like 100 years. Then Sunday was our Cell Group's end of the school year cook out. By then, Jess and I were so beat. We barely made it through the party and had to leave early cause we were so tired.

We leave for Savannah, GA Wednesday. Jess and I are taking a few days to relax on the beach. We're going to the Lady and Sons restaurant, the GA aquarium (in Atlanta), and hopefully a tour of Savannah. We're looking forward to the trip and hope to post some great pictures when we get back!

Back to Work

I (Jeremy) have been sick since Sunday afternoon. I'm not sure if its something I ate, or if I had a virus. Anyways, I haven't had these kind of flu like symptoms or missed two days of work in a row in a long time. I learned a couple valuable pieces of advice for any of you that may experience the same kind of flu like symptoms that I experienced. First, drink Gatorade...that way you don't dehydrate. Second, start a BRAT diet. Brat stands for...

Bananas
Rice
Apples
Toast

So, I'm starving today. Ready for my stomach to be settled enough to eat some Krystals or some Mexican food. Yum! Jessica is also sick, but she has a cold or something. I let her sleep in this morning (hopefully Leo did too). Get well soon Jess!

Happy Birthday Jessica

No, this isn't our baby. Its a really good picture of Jessica and a cute picture also. So, Happy Birthday Jessica. I hope you have a great one!

Some pics

Jeremy and I took some time yesterday to drive around and take some pictures close to our house. Here are a few... This is at a marina about three miles from us.
This is picture was actually inspired by Bethany, who every time she comes to our house says "That's so pretty, you need to take a black and white picture of that." So I finally did. Thanks Bethany!
This is our driveway type thing that leads down to our house.

Really Cool Story

For the full story go to http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080430/SPORTS/804300483

I heard this story on the radio this morning and was very surprised. Evidently, this girl hit her first college home run. Then as she rounded first, she missed the bag. Realizing this, she turned abruptly blowing out her knee. So, if her teamates help her, she's disqualified. If the coach orders a pinch runner, then she only gets a single. So, without prompting, the ladies from the opposing team (Central Washington) pick her up and carry her around the bases. Western Oregon goes on to beat them eliminating them from the playoffs. WOW!

A Red's Vent

Every year Reds fans complain about Adam Dunn. Every year he hits 40 home runs and 80+ RBI's. Well, I still don't like him. I'm sorry, but he's paid 13 million this year. The same as David Ortiz, Derek Lee, and Albert Pujols. I would much rather have those guys on my favorite team.

The above picture is a picture of Josh Hamilton. I know the Reds got Volquez for him, but he's got 5 home runs and leading the AL in RBI's. I know its not my team and I'm no GM, but why is Dunn so untradeable? Why did they not keep this guys. The Reds lack an RBI producer and they let the best one they had go, to keep a money eating guy who will get hot some time this summer and knock in a bunch of home runs (with no one on and no one out) only to go cold again in the fall ending up with great stats, but not really helping his team.

Anyways, that's my take on Dunn. Hopefully, Walt Jocketty will work his St. Louis magic for the Reds. There's my vent.

On another note, the Reds bullpen has been worth the money. Wisely, Baker moved Affeldt to the pen. He, Weathers, Burton, and Cordero have been money. If only Cuento, Fogg/Belisle, and Arroyo would get with the program. I don't expect Arroyo to be a great pitcher (like the Reds organization would like him to be). There's a reason the Sox gave him up for Willy Mo.

Ok, there's my Reds blog. Have a nice day...

Stupid Things That People Say To You When You're Pregnant

So now that I am 5+ months pregnant I've had the joy of experiencing really bad things that people say to you when you're pregnant. I'm not putting them in a top ten list type order or anything, just laying them out there. If you're reading this and realize that you have been in fact one of those people who have said one of these things to me, don't take it personal, just roll w/it.

1. Talking about how much you are showing. Here are a few of the ones I've encountered: * Wow! You're already showing (The instant that you tell them you are having a baby.) * You're getting really big! (Like I didn't notice that when my clothes stopped fitting). * Are you sure you're not having twins? (I think this person said it as a joke but I'm not sure.)
It's not that this one is really all that bad b/c it is obvious that I'm going to get bigger, it's just that I never know how to respond. And it makes me paranoid that I'm too big for how far along I am.

2. "If you eat cold lunch meat you could kill your baby. Is lunch meat really that important to you?" Someone actually said these words to me. I know that you can't eat cold lunch meat b/c of lysteria (a weird bacteria) but I was asking about heating it up and this was the response I got from a co-worker.

3. Picture this - A child about two or three throwing a fit so bad that I'm pretty sure their head is going to start spinning around a la excorcist style. The parent everytime w/o fail looks at me and says "See what you have to look forward to." Again - how am I supposed to respond to this? Wow - I am so excited, thanks for the encouragement.

4. In a tone that sounds like I have a terminal illness asking "How are you feeling?". Here it's not the question that's the problem, it's the way that it's asked. Seriously people, I'm pregnant, I don't have cancer.

That's all I can think of right now although I'm sure that there will be more to come as time goes on!

Stuff Christian's Like

I found the link to this site on Jessie's blog. (Thanks Jessie). This guy has a blog dedicated to the things that Christian's often refer to that are sometimes funny or ridiculous. He's a Christian himself and just has a great spin on some of the things that you tend to hear a lot of in the church. It's hilarious, you've got to check it out. Here is is: http://stufffchristianslike.blogspot.com

Leo the dog

I took Leo for a walk at the park today. It was a very nice day today with a high of 83 and sunny! So, we walked around the loop twice (about a half mile) and Leo stopped looked up at me, like "I'm done!" What in the world? So I dragged him around one more time and came home. I just wanted the world to know that I have the laziest dog in the world.

Police Stakeout!

Hello bloggers. I had a pretty cool thing happen to me today. I got to the office about 8:45 this morning and there was a car with two guys parked in our parking lot. I didn't think much about it, because we get random cars hanging out in our parking lot all the time. Well, I forgot something at home and had to drive all the way back home. By the time I got back to the office it was about 10am. Well, now its 11am and they are still sitting there. Pretty weird. So, I went over to them to see if there was anything I could help them and they said they were working. The guy driving pulled out his police badge. They are undercover agents on a stakeout! How cool is that? I thought that only happened in the movies! Hopefully, the stakeout isn't towards me or something with the Church...

Some Sunday Pics

Here are a few pics that Jess took last week.



This is a picture of an ugly bush in front of our house. Obviously it isn't that ugly...so I think we might keep it.



Here is Leo, Gigdet, and Bumper hanging out together. They're best friends forever!

We're having a boy!

Here's a profile picture of the baby. He's healthy and was moving a lot this morning.



This is a picture from the bottom up. The nurse said its like he's sitting on a glass table.

Sorry we haven't blogged in a while...I'll do better!

New Firepit

Jeremy and I decided that we live in the perfect place for a fire pit and found one for a really great deal so we got it. Tonight was the first time we used it and it was great! Except- some of you probably remember Jeremy's tendency to build fires out of control so we had to wait a while for it to be approachable. He still has some bugs to work out! We can't wait till it gets warmer so we won't freeze as much. Anyways, here a couple of pics of our new little contraption.

Its time for a sports blog again

I haven't blogged about sports in a while...so I thought I would give my thoughts on the starting rotation for the Cincy Reds.

The top three are locked. Harang and Arroyo look great this spring. I think Josh Fogg will be a good number three starter. He's got experience and the Reds will be paying him too much for him to pitch in the minors. Number four and five are the question marks. I think Volquez has earned a starting spot. He has had a GREAT spring. If I were Dusty Baker, I would give the fifth spot to Johnny Cuento, who looked very today against the Tigers...and has shown flashes of greatness. I am really rooting for Matt Belisle...but I just don't think he's that great. Maybe they'll keep him at middle relief. The Affeldt experiment is going to be a flop and Bailey isn't ready. I am psyched about Cordero closing and Burton/Weathers/Coffey setting him up. Coffey has lost some weight and looks pretty good this spring. Great job Reds on picking up some strong arms to boost an awful 2007 pitching squad.

I'm really curious to see what happens with the lineup. Baker obviously loves Patterson, but Freel, Hopper, and Bruce are all quality guys out in CF. If it were my choice I would never have signed Patterson and would have given the job to Bruce. Freel and Keppinger are great utility guys off the bench...and Hopper would be a great DH. But, that's why I'm preaching on Sundays and Baker is coaching :-)

That's my thoughts on the Cincy Reds. Working on my NCAA bracket right now. Jessica and I are going head to head again. She loves the bracket! It cracks me up how excited she gets come March. YOU ARE GOING DOWN JESSICA! HA!

A Few Pics

Here's a cute pic of Leo. He got a hair cut the other day and appreciated it today when temps were up to 70! Crazy weather...



Here's a beautiful picture of Jess. I caught her after work the other day.



Here I am fixing some grilled cheese and soup for dinner. Fun times!

Knoxville's First Snow

Ok, its not the first snow here...but the first time it has stuck to the ground long enough for us to take a picture :-). I predict that by midday the snow will have melted away. Surprising enough, Knox County Schools are still in session. The whole city usually shuts down at the thought of snow!



Here's a great picture of Jessica beating me up in a boxing game on Wii. She's really good at boxing and bowling. She's really bad at golf. We just got Mario Party 8 and we LOVE it. We also got Rayman Raving Rabbids 2...its pretty cool...but not as good as the first one. The games are not as good (especially the dancing ones), but it does allow for four players to play a series of games to compete for a high score of your choosing. That part is WAY better then the first one. There's an older couple in the Church who also have a Wii...and love it. She's all the time bragging about the 250 she bowled. Its sort of weird to see even grandparents into this thing!



Finally, a picture of Leo and Belle getting along! The other day Belle jumped up in bed with Leo and us. She's really starting to warm up again to us and now she's warming up to Leo. But, don't worry Amberlee, she's still Satan incarnate :-).

A Change in Plans

We have withdrawn our offer on building a house. Last week I found a mistake on my taxes (which were already sent in), and so we've decided to go a different route. It was a difficult decision, but we both agree that it will be best in the long run. So, we're back to square one. We still hope to be in a house before the baby is born...so please pray for us as we seek God's direction for our lives.

In other news, Jessica had a high blood pressure reading last time she was in for a check up...so the doc put her on some medicine. Now, she's back to normal! However, she's still got the whole morning sickness thing going on. We'll know in 7 weeks or so the sex of the baby. You can be sure we'll post that pic!

We've had a sudden growth at CCC. Its been exciting, but that coupled with school has kept me off of blogger. I'll try to do better :-)

A Spending Spree

Hello bloggers! We haven't blogged in a while so here's a couple updates...

1. Jessica is doing GREAT! She had a little problem with her blood pressure a couple weeks ago and now she's taking blood pressure meds and Monday she went in and they said its back to normal. We were a little nervous there for a while.

2. We decided to build a house. Here's a picture of what its going to look like...



We put down our earnest money Monday and our tentative date for completion is June 30. So, it's just around the corner!

3. We bought a wii!!! I was at Sam's yesterday browsing around and I noticed that they were all out of PS3's and XBOX360's but they had some tickets for Wii's. So, I was like, "Do you guys actually have some in stock?" The lady whispered back, "Yeah, we got 25 in this morning." So, I got one for regular price (Ebay is selling them for like $100 more). I traded in my PS2 and games and got some money to buy some controllers and games. FUN TIMES! Anyways, probably not the best financial decision, but ultimately it was for the baby :-)

That's all our new news. Hope everyone is doing well. They should start breaking ground in two weeks, so I'll start posting pics of the updated house. I'm sure my posts won't be a cool as the Murphy's when they built their house...but I'll do my best!

We're having a baby!

We are very happy to announce that we are having a baby. The due date is Sept. 2nd. The Doctor said the baby looked and sounded healthy. We actually got to hear the heart beat! We are both so excited and appreciate the prayers and support we have received from many of you. I'm going to start blogging from the office now, so we can post more pics!

Thursday's Video of the Day

Great Song!

Thursday's Video of the Day

We still can't get our pictures to upload off of our MAC. I took a really cute one yesterday of Leo and Belle sleeping together on the couch. It was adorable. I guess she's finally used to him. Anyways, here's a fun video for your viewing pleasure.

Jeremy's Top Ten Movies of 2007

Please note that some of these movies are not family friendly.

In response to Justin's top ten list, I decided to do one of my own :-). Him and I have completely different tastes in movies and you probably do as well. But without further ado...these are the top ten movies that I saw this year and enjoyed.

Number 10 - 300. I found it very interesting how the Spartans carried on war tactics and how strong such a small number can be.

Number 9 - Departed. A lot of cussing, but very strong action/suspense.

Number 8 - Harry Potter. Not the best one in the series, but still a very good movie.

Number 7 - License to Wed. Incredibly cheesy, yet so much can be learned in this movie and it was a nice romantic comedy that Jess and I watched together.

Number 6 - Pirates of the Carribean. Also, not the best of the series, but still very good.

Number 5 - American Gangster. Not a family movie, but it was an amazing depiction and with Jess now working in substance abuse, very eye opening.

Number 4 - Oceans 13. I love the Oceans series.

Number 3 - Dan in Real Life. One of my favorite Steve Carrell movies and Jessica's favorite of 2007.

Number 2 - Bourne Ultimatum. My favorite of the three Bourne movies. Great movie.

Number 1 - Evan Almighty. If you have not seen this movie, go see it with your family. One of the best "Christian" movies I have ever seen.

Merry Christmas

Just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas before we head out to the land of no internet (West Virginia). Merry Christmas everybody!!!!!

I LOVE PRESIDENT BUSH!

Bush signs foreclosure relief measure into law

WASHINGTON - President Bush on Thursday signed a measure to provide financial relief for financially strapped homeowners facing foreclosure or bankruptcy.

The bill gives a tax break to homeowners who have mortgage debt forgiven as part of a foreclosure or renegotiation of a loan. No taxes would be owed on the value of any debt forgiven or written off. Currently such debt forgiveness is taxable income.

For those who are not aware, Jessica and I had to negotiate a forgiven debt in order to sell our home. Well, we have been scraping and checking under the cushions in the couch to save up for the taxes that would have been owed for this forgiven debt. Well, my accountant is currently checking, but it looks like we may have just caught a break. Hopefully this new bill applies to us!

Just some pictures

We haven't posted any pictures in a while. I'm taking a sick morning this morning (doctor's appointment) so I've got some extra time to post some pics. Here are just a few...

Well this is what I posted five minutes ago. But for some reason, Blogger is not uploading any of our pictures. Really frustrating and this is probably why Jessica hasn't posted in a while. Facebook takes like two seconds to upload pictures, but Blogger is a pain in the neck...so I'll have to post those pictures later. They were really nice...sorry you won't get to enjoy them today.

Jeremy's Power Rankings

Here's a quick look at the power rankings. The Steelers fell off with an awful loss to the Pats, while the Seahawks are slowly moving back up the rankings.

Number Five - Seattle Seahawks. I told you early on in the season that they would quietly win their division and make the playoffs. One of the few predictions I got right.

Number Four - Indianapolis Colts. Their offense looked bored Sunday...but then again the Ravens looked tired.

Number Three - Green Bay Packers. Looks like Favre is OK.

Number Two - Dallas Cowboys. Romo looked like a seasoned Veteran Sunday with that comeback win. Very well done.

Number One - NE Pats. Why is it every week they have a chip on their shoulder like the world is out to get them? Don't cheat and stop running up the score and maybe you can win some friends back :-). They'll win this week, but watch out next week...cause Miami will surprise everyone winning in Boston. Just watch....you'll see.

Thursday's Video of the Day

This one is for Jessica. She's feeling sick and it will make her smile to see and hear her favorite Christmas song :-). I love you Jess!

Jeremy's Power Rankings

We just had a great weekend at Dollywood. Hopefully we can get some pics on here tonight. Last week was CRAZY...without a break...so hopefully this week will slow down and we can post more! Onto the rankings...

Number Five - Pittsburg Steelers. The Steelers moved back into five with a win against an uninspired, lazy, undisciplined Cincy team...but they are the only 9 win team in the NFL...so they switch with the Jags who lost against...

Number Four - Indianapolis Colts. Starting to get healthy and their offense is starting to click again. Watch out!

Number Three - Green Bay Packers. Everyone knew they were the second best team in the NFC. Its too bad Favre got knocked out so early, but probably his injury kept the Packers from getting demolished. Sorry about the early bandwagon pick for Favre...I guess I just don't want Brady to get it :-)

Number Two - Cowboys. TO is leading the league in reception yards. He's happy and playing well.

Number One - NE Pats. They can lose tonight and I still would keep them here. They have nothing to win for and they have proved in 11 games that they are by far the best team in the NFL. The only hope for the rest of the sorry AFC is that they become lazy and content and rust up before the playoffs.