Caedmon's Call on Grey's

Has it really been two weeks since I last posted?!??!?! Yikes! Hope you had a great Christmas...Ours was awesome! I will write details later. I will just say that "Squeals of Delight" would be a good theme for the day as Jay (our son) had his first Christmas...

Speaking of gifts...Here is the link I promised you this morning to the Caedmon's Call Song that will be played on Grey's Anatomy on Jaunary 3rd's episode. It is called, Ten Thousand Angels. Free Steamng download! Nice.

http://www.inorecords.com/caedmonscall/tenthousandangels.mp3

Enjoy!!
CH

Keep It Secret

Found a link to a huge list of references to "inside" references to Pixar Movies! Apparently, these folks really look to cross-reference everything that they do! Wow, that's great marketing!

Here is a blog entry that delineates all sorts of these references. I will say that these thoughts are not my own. They are the thoughts of the Blogger, Jim Hill. And sometimes the word choice is not very good.

In other words, I really thought this article was way too neat to pass up...but because of a few things, you should read it first...then, look like a complete GENIUS in front of your children, other family coming in for Christmas, and all your friends, because you know where all the neat "references" are.

Click Here for the article.


Who knew there was a Dinoco Station in Toy Story...years before Cars hit the theatre. Awesome!
CH

It's Snow Joke

The Weather Channel has this really funny "Holiday Greeting," and puts you right in the middle of an Epic Conditions Show segment...Check out mine! LOL!

http://www.snowjoke.com/viewer.php?id=20345

To Create yours visit:

www.snowjoke.com

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!
CH

More than 31

Christmas is full of all sorts of flavors!!

If there's a flavor that you long for, but haven't had in a while...for instance, Grandmamma's persimmon pudding. Then, you need to look no further than David Michael and Company!

These flavor experts are trying to do all that they can to help you find you flavor, and have even started placing interesting products on the shelves. Some of the things you might find from them are "slicable" salsa (like slices of cheese and it doesn't drip down the front of your shirt,) carrot flavored chewing gum ("You're not leaving this table until you finish chewing your gum!"), pizza ice cream that you use like a chip dip, and a white forest cake slushy that you can drink through a straw.

WOW! Sounds like you might want to find out more at www.dmflavors.com

Yum! (I think.)
CH

Volunteer Your Vote

Your vote really does count, and will truly make a differnce in lives of many Tennesseans! AWESOME!!

I received this earlier today....
_____________

Hawkins County Memorial Hospital is participating in an online contest, sponsored by Siemens, to win a state-of-the-art MRI system.

Hospitals from around the country have submitted two-minute videos, and the hospital whose video receives the most votes wins the MRI.

Hawkins County Memorial’s video,” Wish We Had a Brand New MRI,” is set to the tune of “Rocky Top” and features hospital employees, patients, the Rogersville Middle School band – and even Smokey.

Area residents can view the video and a cast a vote for Hawkins County Memorial at http://www.winanmri.com .

Voting ends Dec. 31, and one vote may be cast per computer per day. What's even more. the Rogersville hospital is the only Tennessee hospital participating in the contest.

Here are the Lyrics to “Wish We Had a Brand-New MRI” (Remembe, to the tune of Rocky Top:)

Wish we had a brand-new MRI / Down in the Tennessee hills.
Ain’t no foggy film on our MRIs / A new one better still.
Once I had a brand-new MRI / along with some pouring-down rain.
Indoor scans, better for our patients / to scan those bodies and brains.
MRI, you’ll always be / Saving lives in Tennessee.
Good ol’ MRI / MRI Tennessee / MRI Hawkins County!!!

__________________

Volunteer a Vote! Thanks!
CH

Ideas Are Popping

You might have seen the pizza commercial where the guy is hanging out all day with a sheet of Bubble Wrap...and just popping it!

To be honest, I could probably see myself doing that if I had a really big sheet of it, and all day to waste. :) After all isn't that what bubble wrap is for? Well, apparently not!

Some kids have great imaginations and were challenged to create new uses for Bubble Wrap! Thus began a contest, the Bubble Wrap Competition for Young Inventors.

So far there are 15 semifinalists, and the grand prize winner will receive a $10,000 savings bond. Sweet!

Here are some of the ideas: Some saw Bubble Wrap as a building material for shock-absorbing flooring for dancers. Others thought that it should be wrist cushions for people with carpal tunnel syndrome.

The winner will be named January.

Here's the official Site for the competition:

http://www.nmoe.org/bubblewrap/

Happy Popping or Inventing :)
CH

Give Thanks!

We like to sing the song, "Give Thanks" at church every so often. I think the words are very appropriate for today.

Give Thanks with a grateful heart
Give Thanks to the Holy One
Give Thanks, because He's given
Jesus Christ, His Son

And now, let the weak say I am strong
Let the poor say I am rich
Because of what the Lord has done for us
Give Thanks...

I pray that you may be blessed today as you gather around the table with friends and family. Today should be fun for us, we are headed to the home of some good friends, and Jay will get to celebrate his first Turkey Day!!!

Grace and Peace,
CH

LOL!

Want to bring up office morale??? Want to come into work, and know that you are going to have a great day?

Well, contrary to popular belief, whistling while you work isn't the key anymore. Actually, it's laughing!

Researchers from the University of Missouri-Columbia say that on-the-job humor helps to increase efficiency and creativity...not to mention, happier employees tend to have better communications skills and are also less likely to leave their company.

So, Laugh it up in your cubicle and make the boss smile :D
CH

Ol' Skool Rules!

Before your kids wanted an X-Box, before I wanted a Nintendo Entertainment System, and when Sony was only know for its stereos, not its Playstation, there was the Atari!

Now, the toy that brought you Pac-Man, Frogger, Pole Position, and Spaced Invaders, has received the official respect it deserves. The Atari 2600 game system is among the latest toys to be inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame!!

Atari is among this year's three great inductees to the Hall. The other two are the low-tech kite and the Raggedy Andy doll. Other toys in the Hall of Fame include Barbie, Legos, and the Slinky! Slinky! (For fun it's a wonderful toy! It's fun for a girl and boy...sorry, I like the Slinky.)

If you are wondering where the Toy Hall of Fame is located. You can find it as a part of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.

Long Live Pong!
CH

I'm Going to Miss My Shows

In the coming weeks, we will soon find our TV's full of reruns and formerly cancelled series. It makes me sad, because I really got into some of the new shows (and of course have held onto some older ones). Honestly, I think Big Bang Theory is a stitch, but now it has had to halt production because of the writers' strike.

If you're wondering why the writers for your favorite TV shows (including 24) have decided to strike, this video does a pretty good job of explaining the whole thing from the writers' perspective. It's worth the 3 1/2 minutes to watch.

http://weblogs.variety.com/wga_strike_blog/2007/11/writers-strike-.html


Hoping everyone can get along soon,
CH

What will they think of next?

Google Me this...Google me that...All I want are directions on a map...no problem!

If you have a hard time finding your way around, you may not have to worry about rushing into a convenience store to get directions anymore. Just get it at the pump.

Next month, you will be able to consult Google maps on displays built into fuel pumps!

You won't be able to type in specific addresses, yet (they are working on that,) but you will be able to pick points on maps or select destinations such as restaurants, hospitals, businesses and popular tourist spots.

Then, you can print out driving directions and take them with you.

Wonder if they help me get out of a paper bag?

CH

The Jitters

If you haven't ever had a chance to drive up Interstate 81 to Virginia Exit 7, then, now is the time for a trip to Nita's Frozen Stone and Creamery!

It is much like a Blue Ridge or a Marble Slab...but with an amazing concoction called THE JITTERS. It is a chocolate covered waffle bowl with coffee ice cream, chocolate fakes, and a shot of espresso mixed right in the thick of it. Or you can do a Chalmer's Jitters. Same waffle bowl, chocolate flakes, chocolate covered espresso beans, and a double shot of espresso in the middle!! Awesome!

I tell you this to say, that it sounds like I could keep up with Chicago as the windy city has been named people in Chicago as the most caffeinated in the United States.

Apparently, Chicagoans eat more chocolate and drink more cola than other U.S. urbanites, and are among the top consumers of energy drinks and coffee.

They are also likely to say caffeine is good for you. (I would agree...life is too short for sleep. Drink more coffee. LOL!)

Tampa, Miami, Phoenix and Atlanta rounded out the top five most caffeinated cities, while residents of San Francisco, Philadelphia, New York, Detroit and Baltimore consumed the least caffeine.

The survey looked at consumption of coffee, tea, chocolate, sodas, and energy drinks in 20 major US Cities.

Seattle took the top spot in just caffeinated coffee consumption. (What a surprise?!?!? :)

Nearly 60 percent of residents in the city said coffee would be the most difficult caffeine product to give up.

(AMEN!!)

CH

GORGEOUS Day

If you were ever a fan of the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin...then you need to mark down November 15th!

That will be the day to to wear khaki shorts, and shirt, not to mention speak with an Aussie accent, and chase wild animals that are the world's strongest, meanest, and most venimous. :)

That day has been set aside as Steve Irwin Day, really it is a date to remember Steve's life and mission to conserve wildlife. Why November 15th? Not what you might think.

It happens to correspond with the birthday of Steve's favorite giant Galapagos tortoise, Harriet, and on that day, Terri Irwin, will release a memior entitled, Steve and Me: Life With the Crocodile Hunter.

We'll Always Miss you, Steve!

CH

Winners!

I am such a proud Hubby and Papa!!

Meredith, my wife, text me yesterday with a message of good news. She and our son, Jay (3 and a half months old) had won a costume contest...with a small cash prize!!! WOO!

They were in downtown Greeneville, TN, for their Halloween Happenings, and got to the Lion's Club Costume Contest just in time. Meredith told me they were the last ones in line for judging in the 0-3 years category.

The two of them won for their costume of a Mama Kangaroo and a Joey. It's a really cute costume and I will post a picture as soon as I can. Thanks to our friend, April Mullikin, for all the help with sewing the tail and the gluing of ears. Worked perfectly!

Hope you and your kids had a great time last night!

CH

What a Bargain!

Shop the yard sales...the thrift stores...and always check between the cushions of your couch:

A student who just bought a pullout couch for a couple hundred bucks at a flea market found a painting worth 10 times that amount hidden inside when she unfolded the sofa at home.

It was a tiny 10- by 15-inch oil painting. However, it sold for $27,630 at an art auction last weekend!!!

The work is called, "Preparation to Escape to Egypt," and was painted by an unknown artist close to Venetian painter Carlo Saraceni between 1605 and 1620.

And stories like that are why I LOVE "Antiques Road Show!"

Oh yeah, check your pockets, too. :)
CH

Corgis Rule!!!

I've always loved being a Corgi owner, because they such amazing dogs and they are such great companions. My Grandmother used to raise and show them, so anything neat about Corgis has always put a little pride in my step. Imagine my puffed out chest when I read this:

______________________________________________

And the winners are ... Poppy, Anna, Oliver and Megan.

Actress Helen Mirren has been garlanded with awards for her portrayal of Britain's Queen Elizabeth in the film "The Queen" and now her corgi co-stars have won two awards at the Fidos -- www.thefidos.com.

The world's first international awards for canine film stars were given out at a ceremony at the London Film Festival on Sunday. The four corgis were named as the Best Historical Hounds as well as picking up a Best in the World prize.

The corgi breed completed an impressive hat-trick at the Fidos when American Travis -- a Welsh cardigan corgi -- was named Best Comedy Canine for "Year of the Dog."

The Fidos are the brainchild of journalist Toby Rose, who awards the Palme Dog at the Cannes Film festival to the year's finest canine performance on screen.

(Source: Yahoo News

And the winners are ... Poppy, Anna, Oliver and Megan.

Actress Helen Mirren has been garlanded with awards for her portrayal of Britain's Queen Elizabeth in the film "The Queen" and now her corgi co-stars have won two awards at the Fidos -- www.thefidos.com.

At the world's first international awards for canine film stars, given out at a ceremony at the London Film Festival on Sunday, the four corgis were named as the Best Historical Hounds as well as picking up a Best in the World prize.

"I know one should avoid acting with animals and children, but these little chaps were a pleasure to work with and deserve all the plaudits for their fine performances," Mirren, who is currently filming in the United States, said in a statement.

The corgis are owned by retired caterer Liz Smith -- dubbed Corgi Liz on the film set of "The Queen" -- who lives near Ipswich in east England.

Their success at the Fidos takes to 59 the tally of Oscars, Baftas and other major awards received by "The Queen."

The corgi breed completed an impressive hat-trick at the Fidos when American Travis -- a Welsh cardigan corgi -- was named Best Comedy Canine for "Year of the Dog."

Here's a video link of the Winning Pembroke Welsh Corgis:

http://news.sky.com/skynews/video/videoplayer/0,,30100-1290502,.html

(Source: Yahoo News)

_________

I love my Welsh Corgi (Alex) and our Corgi Mix (Pepper)!!!
CH

Grab a Tissue

If you haven't become a fan of the Boston Red Sox baseball team as they play in the World Series...then, it might becoming a fan might be inevitable after hear the story of Andrew Madden.

Andrew is 13-and a huge Red Sox fan! What's even more special about him. though, is that Andrew just came out of heart transplant surgery Sept. 30--and and he couldn't have been matched with a better surgeon!

Dr. Kristine Guleserian is a Boston native, and she is a true red sox fan too. So, in the weeks leading up to the surgery, they would talk baseball first, and then talk medicine. The story gets better.

Dr. Kristine presented Andrew with a Red Sox cap that she purchased at Fenway Park (where the Red Sox play.) Andrew wore it into surgery and then, his surgeon decided that he had been through a lot and wanted him to live another dream...again, I say, the story gets better.

She was able to arrange it for Andrew to go to Boston. Grace Airlines provided a jet, and $15,000 of fuel was paid by the Texas Rangers (another Professional Baseball Team--how's that for being kind! Maybe you can be a fan of the Rangers, if you don't want to be a Red Sox fan :) Then, to top it all off, Andrew was able to walk out on the field, and even watch a game in the suite of the President of the Red Sox!!!

This is one of those things that makes you want to cry really hard...like after an episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition, because people just give and give and give...

I imagine Andrew got to meet a few of the players, too...but what's even more is that the players probably wanted to meet him.

Blessings,
CH

R U Friendly?

My wife, Meredith, and I were traveling this weekend in the city of Winston-Salem, NC.

This is where Meredith grew up, and as we were there, we were saying how nice the place is. The people are nice, and the cityscape was wonderful! We enjoyed it very much.

So, if you live there or nearby...it's understandable.

Since I was on the subject of "Nice" Cities...I found out that Travel and Leisure Magazine did a survey or two for Amercia's Best Cities...and here are the results from the "Friendliest Cities." Notice that 4 of the top 5 are in the South :) ...and what's more...Number 3 is where some of my favorite people live. So, I have to say that I like this list :)

1 Charleston
2 New Orleans
3 Minneapolis/St. Paul
4 Nashville
5 Austin
6 Portland, Oregon
7 Honolulu
8 San Antonio
9 Santa Fe
10 Denver

More at http://www.travelandleisure.com/

Happy Traveling,
CH

EXCLUSIVE PREMIERE

I feel like a Hollywood Insider or something along those lines with tomorrow night's exclusive premiere of THE TEN COMMANDMENTS.

The movie is a new animated feature film (No Charlton Heston) that features Ben Kingsley, Elliot Gould, and Christian Slater. Our friends at the Marquee Cinemas at the Fort Henry Mall in Kingsport have been so kind to reserve a theater for us.

So, tomorrow night at 7, 130 WCQR VIPs are going to get a chance to "screen" the movie the night before it is released to the public. It is sure to be an awesome time!

If you'd like to go the event, you have "win your way in." Make sure you are listening this afternoon at 5:20, tomorrow morning at 7:20, or be near Exit 7, Bristol, VA, tomorrow afternoon from3-5, for your last opportunities to win passes.

A few more details, Mike Riddles is the one who will have tickets to give away tomorrow at The Shouting Sprout (An Organic and Natural Food Store) Grand Opening, next to Outback at Exit 7, Bristol VA.

For more on the movie, make sure you visit www.wcqr.org or www.epicstoriesofthebible.com

Let My People Go (to the movie!!)
CH

2007: A Grocery Odyssey

Grocery Shopping may be transforming right before your very eyes.

Not only did I hear Steve Smith (CEO of Food City) say that soon we may not have to scan every single item in our cart anymore...because of technology that may allow us to push the cart of goodies through a scanner and have it all rung up in fell swoop...But I also heard that you may soon be cruising the aisles with "intelligent" carts that warn you if you happen to be buying too much junk food!!!

The high-tech model will be fitted with a computer screen and barcode scanner so that it will read each product's individual code to give you information about calories, nutrition, sourcing and the environment.

Trials of touch-screen computers on shopping carts have been implemented in stores in the United States.

Where were these before I decided that I need to do Weight Watchers?!?!? :) I just hope they don't have really loud alarms when you do put too much junk food in the cart. That would be really embarrassing.

"It's PEANUT BUTTER, I promise!!"

CH

The Infamous Infomercial

Last night, Meredith (my wife) and I were watching some TV, and all of a sudden this guy, who sounded as if he had a fake Bristish Accent, comes on to do an infomercial. It wasn't a long one, but it did take a good 2-3 minutes.

What was the guy selling? Something that I'm not sure I was sold on buying. But isn't it always like that?!?!

It was the Sonic Scrubber...or something to that effect. What was hilarious about it was that it was like taking an electric toothbrush, adding 6 different brushes to go on it, and selling it. What was even funnier was that the brushes weren't much bigger than a toothbrush head. LOL!!

And this guy was talking about tackling soap scrum, grout, and stainless steel stains with this "itsy bitsy teenie weenie" scrubbing brush. Then, he went on to say that you could clean the microwave, and (the one feasible usage) getting stains out of clothes. All for...yup...19.95!!! I love that! It makes me laugh so hard. That has to be the magic infomercial number.

I'm sure you've seen some pretty ridiculous stuff, and this by far, was NOT the most silly. However, it did get me thinking about all those items, and wh we believe the hype. After all, if we bought every product that actaully did what it said...then, we'd have a spotless and gigantic house, tons of the money in the bank, and know how to speak 25 different languages in 5 days.

Here's to the infomercial!!!
CH

Walking The Talk

The man who spent months reading all 44 million words of the Encyclopedia Britannica has just finished his next project -- 381 days trying to follow the Bible's more than 600 precepts and teachings.

And now, he's written a book called The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible to recount his endeavour.

With the help of a spiritual advisory board of rabbis, priests and ministers, Jacobs tried to live every facet of his life based on strict interpretations of Scripture.

This led him to:

•Wear white.
•Wear a robe and sandals.
•Herd sheep.
•Eat crickets.

His biggest challenge?

"That'd be no coveting, no lying, no gossiping. They're little sins, but they're killers. My year made me realize just how many of these sins I committed every day. And refraining from them for a year was really hard but completely transforming."


CH

You Can Take This Job AND...

...I'll take this one...You thought I was going to say something else, didn't you? LOL!

Working Mother magazine has released its 2007 list of the 100 best companies to work for.

Companies were selected for the list based on replies to 575 questions.

The questions covered size of workforce, compensation, child care and flexibility programs, leave policies and others. Particular weight was given to flexibility and family-friendly policies.

Some of the Top 5 (In alphabetical order) were:

* General Mills
* IBM

* The McGraw-Hill Companies

* UBS

* Wachovia

Have a gr8 day!

CH

Look who has NFL Fever!

JONES SODA!!!!

Yup, the same Soda Company that brought you Turkey and Gravy soda have now taken their love for football to a whole new level....maybe too far.

You can now quench your thirst with sweat or maybe some dirt soda!!

As the company is coming out with a five-pack of sodas with flavors taken from an NFL locker room.

They're Dirt, Sports Cream, Perspiration, Natural Field Turf and Sweet Victory.

And according to their spokeswoman, Clare Bowles, Perspiration Soda tastes kind of salty with a twist of stinky football sock. Gosh, that sounds so delightful.

Be on the lookout for them. They won't be hard to spot. Each bottle also has picture of an NFL player on them, and will be in stores in a few days.

MMMMMMM....Sweaty!

CH

You Make The Call

If you think you know your TV...

For instance what will go well, and what will flop this season.

Then, you ought to try your hand at a new online game called... TV Big Shot!

The game works a lot like a fantasy sports league---You Sign up, and you get a budget of $300 million to create a fantasy TV network.

You can buy and sell shows in hopes of gaining points via press coverage, ratings and more. At the end of the season, the network with the most points wins.

I got dibs on Sunday Night Football, and House!! LOL!
CH

The Fan

You and your husband may be huge fans of a sports team or two...the Colts, the Red Sox, the Vols...I could go on, but I won't...

I've known some pretty devoted fans in my lifetime, but I am amazed at this level of fandom...

Paul and Terri fields just welcomed their son into the world, and both are extreme Chicago Cubs fans! So much so that they named their child...Wrigley Fields...
Just in case: Wrigley Field being where the Cubs play their baseball games.

However, just before you think...awww...poor kid...Paul and Terri gave him an out. They say that he can go by his middle name when he's old enough to decide.

His middle name is Alexander...

CH

PS- I've attached my own "fandom" picture. I recently received a "Jays" cap from my wife. I am not a Toronto Blue Jays fan at all, however, with my son's name being, Jay...It was too cool to pass up on trying to buy one. Guess you could say that I am a JAY fan. Proud Papa that I am!

A Weekend of Firsts

Before I get to my quick stories, just wanted to say "Thank You" for your support during last week's 3-Day Sharathon event. We ended up raising $209,169. If you missed your chance to pledge during Sharathon, not to worry, just drop by WCQR.org, and you may make a gift. Thanks!

Now back to my regularly scheduled blog:

This weekend was a lot of fun for the Harper family, especially for our son, Jay.

We traveled to see Meredith's cousin, Leah, at Maryville College in Maryville, TN (and there is still discussion on how to say that city, because I grew up hearing nothing, but Mare-uh-vul...however, while we were at the college...the football announcer, the fight song, and a couple of people said it was Mary-Ville College. Now, I'm totally confused. Do you know?)

One of the things we did while at Maryville was to go see the football game! The "Flying Scots" (Maryville's Mascot) were 3-0...the best start and most wins in a season they have had since 1985. Wow!

So, we took Jay to his first football game!! The neat thing was that we were able to get really close to the action since it is a NCAA Division III school. Actually, a couple of time, we had to jump up and get in front of Jay's stroller, just to make sure the ball didn't come flying in on him. He had a great time, and so did we...and the Flying Scots are now 4-0 after defeating the Greensboro College Pride 24-7!!!!

Sunday, it was exciting to see you at Freedom Hall as Tobymac came to town. Thousand-Foot Krutch and Barlowgirl opened for him, and it was Jay's first "professional" concert. Jay got to see Daddy play at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Greeneville not too long after he was born, but that doesn't count as "professional."

We had his little ears wrapped as best as possible, and he pretty much slept through the whole thing! However before the music started, Jay was really the hit of the concert. Not to worry about who was going to be on stage, many of you wanted to meet Jay for the first time face to face. I'm glad you did.

We stayed inside for some of the concert, and then, decided to make our way outside to give his ears a rest. Mommy Meredith took great care of him for a good while, and after I was "off duty" from WCQR, we were able to let Meredith go watch some of the concert while I held onto our sleepy boy. We also got to meet a handful of families, one in particular...had a little girl named, Isabella. Isabella thought Jay was cool!! She's 1. :) We thought her family was cool, too.

So, there you have it, we made back just in time for Daddy Chalmer to watch a little football, and then, it was time to hop up and get back tot he weekly grind.

Hope you are having a blessed day!
CH

Sharathon

Up until Friday night at 7, we are in "fundraising mode" at WCQR. Every six months, we make an appeal for all to help support the ministry by their prayers and financial contributions. It's a really exciting time!

Just a reminder that...if you've not made a pledge...please feel free to do so at www.wcqr.org or by giving us a call at 1-888-477-5676. Currently we are over the $100,000 mark on our way to $275,000. Your help is needed and appreciated :)

In other Sharathon news, my son, Jay, got to be the youngest Sharathon volunteer!!! My wife, Meredith, and Jay came by to help answer phones and take pledges. Meredith did most of the talking...Jay is only 10 weeks old (today!!!) I will say that Jay was probably more of the youngest Sharathon distraction....instead of volunteer. Most wanted to spend some time with him (and I understand why...he's a cute kid..not that I'm biased or anything!) rather than answer phones. LOL!!! Good job, son. HA!

Hope you are having a great day!
CH

It's Football Time In...

PITTSBURGH!!!

Yup, now that football season has officially arrived. There are must watch games from Friday evening to Monday evening, and there's a chance that on Sunday, you pull out the gold and black garb to root for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Turns out that Pittsburgh has the most female fans of any NFL team...Green Bay was second...while Buffalo was third. And the Steelers know exactly how to keep you loving the game and their team. This goes way beyond Women's apparel, too.

The Steelers host a simulated Training Day, just for you! Where over 300 women gather to learn blocking and running drills, spend some time in the training room, and even offer a course called, "Football Knowledge For Women."

I'll bet lesson number 1 from that "Knowledge..." course is how to properly use the Terrible Towel! LOL!!!

Happy Football Season!

CH

(Photo: MSNBC.com)

Inside Me

Yesterday, I had a ball waking up and spending a little time with Meredith (my wife) and my son, Jay.

For several minutes, Jay and I were bonding our relationship as I said things that sounded silly, and Jay would smile or coo back. It's really incredible how much that truly means to you as a new Dad. And Jay is getting to the point where he is be coming more and more responsive. He is truly a little man, and it's fun to watch that person come to life!

Since it was so fun, and wonderful, at lunch time, I left the office and started driving home. I HAD to see my family. There was this innate desire to be there with them. I didn't want to be away from them. I couldn't stand it any longer.

So, I drove, and on the way there, I talked to Meredith, who didn't know that I was coming home for a quick lunch. When I was about 5 minutes from the house, Meredith said she was getting ready to go inside, and all I could say was, "Do you mind staying outside for a few more minutes?" "You're almost here?" she asked.

I arrived, and we had a wonderful time holding Jay in his new "favorite" spot...underneath the maple tree in the back corner of our yard. It kept him shaded and cool while he looked around, and continued to discover new things. Flat out incredible. I was only there for 20 minutes, but it was 20 minutes that I will remember for a long time to come.

I love being a husband, and a Dad.

CH

Chocoholics Unite!

If you've ever uttered or heard the phrase, "I'm a chocoholic."

Then you understand that resistance to the candy is pretty much futile. However, put your mind to rest!

There's good news!

Turns out that such sweets are not truly addictive!! Even though, researchers say that there are certain compounds found in chocolate as evidence that it does cause addiction. Many of those compounds also exist in higher levels in other foods such as avocados or cheese!

And personally, I don't know too many many people who say..."I have got to have an avocado!!"


CH

Dinner on the Run

I read this quick "fix-it" article, and found it a great resource. Meredith and I have just started the journey of children, but we ALWAYS have trouble planning for meals, and then, it just takes too long. Maybe this will help....I hope will help you, too.

(Yahoo.com)
Having kids means that you are not only constantly on the run but also that you want to provide the healthiest meals you possibly can. I know exactly what you are thinking — how can I make great home-cooked meals when life is so hectic? Let's go over some tips to help you prepare nutritious meals more quickly.

Kids can eat what adults eat. Don't plan to be a short-order cook each night. Instead of making two different meals, save time by serving your kids what you are eating. And if the kids declare that they won't eat what you're serving, then don't worry about it. Young kids won't starve themselves, and they may eventually learn to eat something new.

Create "planned-overs" (not leftovers). Always keep future meals in mind so that, when you have the time, you can cook a double or triple batch. For example, cook enough chicken for two meals and have baked chicken and mashed potatoes one night, and chicken and pasta salad another night that week.

Cook on the weekends. This will save you time during the week. Meals can be frozen and then thawed (in the refrigerator) on the day you are going to eat them.

Buy prepared foods. So many foods now come ready-to-eat and these foods save loads of time. Choose pre-cut fruits and vegetables, prewashed salads, frozen vegetables, cut or shredded cheeses, skinless, boneless, trimmed meats, or precooked meats.

Keep your pantry stocked with quick-to-fix foods. These include pasta, rice, canned or frozen fruits and vegetables, canned tuna or chicken, and seasonings and condiments that will add more flavor. Keeping such foods on hand will save you time and trips to the grocery store.

And last, have your kids get involved in the kitchen. This can become a time saver for you and also help your kids learn about cooking.

Bon Appetite!
CH

Give Back

In remembrance of the tragedy of September 11th. You have the chance to give back to the community, and even the nation.

Bristol Motor Speedway is hosting their second annual Blood and Bone Marrow Drive tomorrow, 10am til 6pm. it's in affiliation with the national NASCAR drive as well as the Hendrick Marrow Program and Jimmie Johnson Foundation.

Come donate a unit of blood and join the National Bone Marrow registry, and you could save a life.

The first 150 donors get a BMS goodie bag (lots of Speedway cool stuff and driver souvenirs.) Plus, they're not going to let you starve, you will be offered hot dogs, chips, and drinks. And although that is an incredible offer...if you are a donor, you will have the chance to drive your car a few laps around the Speedway Track! (That track also has new pavement. Should be a lot of fun, and quite smooth. )

So, consider giving the gift of life in two ways!

Hopefully, a unit is not one of those gas tanks they use to fill up the cars with... :)

Thanks,
CH

Is that a...CHICKEN?!??!

This just doesn't happen everyday.

This afternoon, I was at lunch at Taco Bell in Gray with my friend, Jason Sharp, and all of a sudden he says, "Dude, that guy just set a HUGE chicken outside the door!!"

There was a LARGE chicken outside the door (Rooster to be exact.) His owner came into Taco Bell, and ordered a couple of cups of ice as we over heard him say that the chicken was getting warm in his cage, and needed to be cooled down.

We continued our conversation ...kind of...because it turned right back to the chicken. We just didn't get it.

So, Jason saw the guy going to get the ice, and asked, "Is that your chicken?" The guy perked up and said, "Why, yes, that is the famous Mr. Clucky!"

We were at a loss...because we had never heard of the FAMOUS Mr. Clucky.

He continued, "Mr. Clucky has been on the CBS National News, and we are on our way from New Hampshire to Miami/South Beach. He rides on my bicycle handlebars and he's done commercials and movies. The people in South Beach know exactly who he is and even wave to him when we ride."

"You didn't order a chicken quesdilla, did you? Cause that would be wrong! LOL!"

"Nope. I've been a vegetarian for 37 years." (Smile from him.)

Jason and I got up to go see him, the guy handed us each a Mr. Clucky card. It read, "Mr. Clucky loves you" and gave the rooster's web address.

I pulled out my phone and recorded a quick 30 second blurb of his appearance at Taco Bell. (Lord knows that doesn't happen everyday.)

So, now, we have met Mr. Clucky, and his owner (don't know his name) and here is my video. I took it on my cell, so, sorry for the quality, but I HAD to capture the moment.

I think that's as random as it gets. But I'm glad Mr. Clucky loves me, and he loves you , too.

CH

www.mrclucky.com

A Musing

You can plan, and plan, and plan...and somehow (in my experience) things don't often work out how you planned.

Now, that is not always a negative thing. Acutally, it can be quite positive to see where your blind spots are...or how God can work something amazing out of something you think is unsalvagable. The past few days have been a series of events in that vein.

-The Wii Story that I told you yesterday.

-My wife and I had to switch phone numbers, because of things we didn't understand in our wireless plan. Probably something we didn't read in the original contract. Again...didn't work out the way we planned.

-I sent a package to my Dad yesterday. Asked for Next Day, early morning delivery. Hasn't arrived yet. He really wanted to send it today.

-Our dog chews up part of our kitchen floor that needs to be replaced, but now REALLY needs to be replaced. Unplanned expense.

(Per comment: We will replace the kitchen floor. Not the dog. She's too cute, even if we have to replace the floor. LOL! Thanks, John!)

-However, God has resurrected a song for our praise band that I haven't played in a while. Love Song by Jason Morant. We played it during Communion last week. I feel the congregation liked it a lot. But God is using the song to bless our band, bring a passion for playing to them, and to fall in love with God, more and more. Incredible! Not planned, but Thank God for Grace.

So, let me encourage you...things don't always work out the way we see them, but something will be around the corner- an answer. God is that Good! Hang in there.

"Strength Will Rise As We Wait Upon The Lord." -Everlasting God, Benton Brown

CH

I Could Go On...

My wife is the hardest person to surprise!! Had it worked out the way I planned, then last night, I would've made a big spectacle about what I had gotten her for her birthday...in front of our friends as we shared Bible Study, and then partied in celebration of Meredith!

But alas, it didn't work that way...rather, we got a few days extra to practice up on her new gift before everyone came over. Yup, I was able to nab a Wii for Meredith. Here's the story:

I was trying to be a good husband and find Meredith something for her birthday that she really wanted. That would be a Wii (not to mention- it isn't such a bad thing, because I would get the chance to play, too. Bonus!) The two of us had been searching for some time for the system, and every time we'd try, the store would be out of them. So, we stopped looking for a while, and then, picked back up again, after playing at our friends' house (Thanks John and Denise!)

After some major calling, I found a store that had one. took my lunch break, and bought it!!! Woo!! I had the PERFECT Present. The next night, we were at John and Denise's for Bible Study, and I told them. Don't say anything, but bring your controllers next week for the party. Meredith has a surprise coming. Little did I know 24 hours later, the surprise would be no more. LOL!

Meredith had gone with our son, Jay, to the Mall for a "Cooking for Life" class. so, after having the Wii on our mind again, she stopped into the store to see if, by chance, they had one. They didn't, BUT...the new store by the new Wal-Mart might. So, the clerk called. Yup! they had 2 systems. Meredith puts her name on it, and leaves for the store.

In route, she calls and says, "Hey..the new game Stop has a Wii. I'm going to get it right now!" I didn't know what to say. So, I said something ridiculous like, "uh...I really really want to be there when we get it. that's a big purchase. I just want to be with you when we get one..." It didn't work. So, I had to divulge. And the surprise ended.

Although, it helped because she was able to pick up another controller and game...Since then, we have had no problems playing, playing, and playing. Meredith is really awesome at Wii bowling, and we like my Mii, because it really looks like me. LOL! Next up, downloading Super Mario Brothers for some ol skool gaming!

Peace,
CH

Great Insight

If you are curious who is popular in "pop culture" today, last night, was a great tool for insight. The Teen Choice Awards were announced. This helps let you know who kids thought were the "best of the best" as far as their TV, Movie, and Celebrity influences. It's interesting...


Teen Choice Award Winners

Movies

Action adventure:Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Drama: The Pursuit of Happyness

Actor, drama: Will Smith (The Pursuit of Happyness)

Actress, drama: Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls)

Actor, action adventure: Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End)

Actress, action adventure: Keira Knightley (Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End)

Actor, horror/thriller: Shia LaBeouf (Disturbia)

Actress, horror/thriller: Sophia Bush (The Hitcher)

Villain: Bill Nighy (Davy Jones), Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Hissy fit: Ryan Seacrest (Knocked Up)

Breakout male: Shia LaBeouf (Transformers)


TV

TV movie: High School Musical 2

TV show, comedy: Hannah MontanaTV show, reality/variety: American IdolTV actor, comedy: Steve Carell
(The Office)TV actress, comedy: Miley Cyrus (Hannah Montana)Breakout: America Ferrera (Ugly Betty)
Music

Single:Girlfriend, Avril Lavigne

Male artist: Justin Timberlake

Female artist: Fergie

Rap artist: Timbaland

R&B artist: Rihanna

Breakout artist, female: Vanessa Hudgens

Breakout artist, male: Akon

Payback track:What Goes Around …Comes Around, Justin Timberlake


Celebs/special

Male hottie: Zac Efron

Female hottie: Jessica Alba

Comedian: Dane Cook

Summer song: Hey There Delilah, Plain White T's

Ultimate Choice: Justin Timberlake


(Source: USA Today)

CH

Talk about Embarrassing

I am a class-a, number 1 CLUTZ!!!

Last night, some friends and I were at the Bristol Motor Speedway (www.bristolmotorspeedway.com) for the NASCAR Craftsman Series Truck Race. The O'Reilly 200! The race was spectacular, and we had great seats right on the high banks of the World's Fastest Half Mile!!! However, after the race was a different story for me.

As we were walking out of the track, some guys were playing a makeshift game of soccer with a stadium seat pillow. They were kicking it in front of them to others in the crowd, and others would pass it back. I know, it sounds silly, but actually, it was kind of fun. Then,....here it comes...

I had just turned my head to see one of my friends, Andy, take the pillow and send it flying behind his back and over his head (that's called a rainbow)...then back to the guys. I smiled and was turning back to see where I was go-SMACK!!!

I ran right into a sign, and (as my friend, Jason R. says) there's this moment in every fall where you have to decide, if you can stop yourself or you have to keep falling. He said he could see me almost catch myself, but then...no...WHAM right on the hard sidewalk. So, of course, it made a huge noise, and everyone (including me) started laughing hysterically. That's all I could do, I was soooo embarrassed.

And besides the emotional scars, I have the battle scars to prove me fall, too. You can see the picture of my "strawberry," "Carnage" or "Boo Boo" when my friends develop their pictures ( We all forgot our digital cameras. But we did get a disposable...so, it will be in a few days. I tried to take a picture with my cell, it just didn't capture it as well. )

So, the moral of the story is...don't fall (you thought I was going to say, look where you're going...guess that could work too.)

Now you know, and knowing is half the battle,
CH

Speechless

I've been struck by the song, "Give Me Words to Speak" by Aaron Shust this week, because several of our friends have been struck with tragedy, and many times when that happens, I am at a loss for words. I just don't want to say the wrong thing, sound ingenuine, or seem like I don't care. It's a balancing act, and that song becomes my prayer...Find out more at www.aaronshust.com

And while you're at it, please keep this in mind for my wife, and me. This is something that she wrote to our Sunday School class. Any help with prayer or more is appreciated.

Please pray for my friend Keri Brown Still. You can read her story on www.helpkeri.com She and I were in the marching band together in high school. Thinking about all that and the fact that she has a new baby makes me incredibly sad. She has Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), and, from what I understand, hospice has been called in. She's only 29 and is new mother. In high school we never would have thought things would turn out this way. We just can't take any moment for granted.

Keep your family close,
CH

HSM 2

Friday's premiere of "High School Musical 2" drew an estimated audience of 17.2 million, which would make it the most-watched basic cable program ever!

For some reason, that statement doesn't surprise me today...Why? Because Meredith and I ran into Xavier at the Verizon store last night. Xavier is a sales guy who has a wife, and a 6 year old daughter.

Now, it is obvious that kids really put all their eggs in one basket when it comes to TV shows or "action figures" or whatever it is that they like. For instance, my nephew, Parker, loves the movie , Cars, and everything is Cars, Cars, Cars...

Xavier's six year old, decided that High School Musical was her thing...She dropped playing with Barbies and Bratz...and wants everything to do with Zach! LOL!

So, Xavier was telling us that she now has the DVD, the CDs, the lunchbox, the poster, the oatmeal...sorry, reminded me too much of the Spaceballs movie...pretty much everything that has the likeness of the movie.

And Friday...oh, Friday...he said he was getting off of work...called his wife, who (bless her heart) said she was trying to get out of Kmart with their daughter in the background saying...Mommy, when are we going to see Zach??? I wanna see Zach and Corey!!! Can we go???

Meredith and I have so much to look forward to, when our son, Jay, gets older. LOL!!

CH

Surprise

This morning, I was running a little later than normal to work.

So, I get out the door, into the car, and OF COURSE, I had to get GAS!!!! I never seem to remember from one day to the next whether or not I need to leave a few minutes early to fill up the tank.

Luckily, there is a gas station just around the corner. I look at the clock, look at my gas meter, and quickly drive in. I swiped my card to activate pay-at-the-pump, and as I am putting the gas in my tank, there are these big yellow fliers on the pump. I start to read, and find that today is the first day of the station's Customer Appreciation Days.

They had some sales going on, etc... but the thing that caught my attention was that you would receive a FREE Aquafina if you put more than 10 gallons in your tank. Mine was at 12. I thought for a split second, "Do I go get one? Do I have enough time to get one? I'm not going to be able to get any more free stuff here, my gas tank is full. Okay, ready? Go get one...quick!"

So, I made my way into the store, and the cashiers were tending someone else, and I immediately thought, "Bad idea. Going to get caught here, and be late. Way to go...Oh, it's my turn..."

I stepped up to the counter and asked about getting a free Aquafina. The lady behind the counter was amazingly cordial. Wonderful smile, and a great laugh. She and another worker conferred. Turns out, Pepsi hadn't delivered the water, yet.

"Well, shucks...(Great Laugh by cashier, because people just don't say shucks anymore)...Thank you, I"ll come...

"No wait, honey...we've got you a consolation prize!"

"I love consolation prizes!!!"

(Another big laugh while she hands me a bag full of stickers, NASCAR promos, and an antenna ball...AND...AND...she must've read my mind...a brand new Travel coffee mug!!)

I took my parting gifts, and raised them up in the air, and said, "I'm a winner! I'm a winner! Thank you! Have a great day!"

Big smiles all around, and that is a great start to the day...and believe it or not (without speeding) I made it to work with 3 minutes to spare. Whew.

Hope your day is full of great surprises, too!
Chalmer

Take a Pit Stop

Hola!

Got a chance to see my brother-in-law this weekend! He is stationed in Germany, and had taken some leave to come see his new nephew, Jay, and so we could take a mini-vacation to see the Tennessee Aquarium, Ober Gatlinburg, and more. We had a blast, and we will certainly miss him as he goes back to Europe.

-Time to switch gears...

It's been a bit cooler today than it has in the past little but, and I am certainly thankful for that. However, the Dawg Days of August are still upon us, and we would like to give you a break from all that heat.

The easiest way to do that is to come see me today at Food City, South Roan Street, Johnson City. I will be there from 4-6pm with some FREE Cookies and Lemonade allow you a little time to kick back, relax, and enjoy a little oasis in your busy schedule.

While you're there, you can find out about Raceway Ministries and how to support their efforts at Bristol Motor Speedway. They do a great job sharing the love of Christ to those that are in the area for the World's Fastest Half-Mile.

I know that this Pit Stop already sounds like a greatest thing since sliced bread, but I have one more reason that you need to stop by today...

BRISTOL TIX!!!

Yup. Come register for a pair of Tickets to the Food City 250 (Winner announced at 5:50 today) and to qualify for our grand prize of 2 tickets to the SOLD OUT Sharpie 500!

I will see you at Food City on South Roan Street (and if you miss the one today...there's a chance to do it again tomorrow...same time...different place...Moreland Drive, Kingsport!) Thanks again to Food City, Bristol Motor Speedway, and Raceway Ministries!

CH

Baby Blues

My wife, Meredith, and I planned a quick vacation before our son, Jay, arrived. When we asked the doctor if that was okay to "go away" for a day or two, he wasn't necessarily keen on the idea, because labor can happen anywere....and I mean ANYWHERE...

Antoria Gillon's American Idol audition was interrupted yesterday when she went into labor!!!

Antoria wasn't due to give birth until today, so she thought it was safe to wait in line at Texas Stadium, starting at 2:30 a.m. , for her try-out.

Of course after waiting for 16 hours, she got her chance to sing, and ...

"I felt something over my body when I was singing, and I knew right away what it was. The judge stopped and asked if I was OK, and I said, 'I just want to finish my song.' "

Enduring intense contractions, she finished singing, got the familiar sheet of yellow paper and only then climbed into the ambulance.

She then welcomed a baby boy into the world...The baby's name: Jamil Labarron Idol McCowan.

She must've been singing some major baby blues for that to happen...and she made it to the next round. WOW!
CH

(Source: USA Today)

Fast Food Nation

When I was a little kid, my mom said that I instantly recognized a McDonald's when I saw one...and all of a sudden I was clamoring for a Happy Meal. Now, research shows that not much has changed...I would have probably been of the same mind as these kids:

McDonald's Corp.'s packaging makes preschoolers think its Chicken McNuggets, hamburgers and french fries taste better, according to a Stanford University study aimed at reducing childhood obesity.

Sixty-three children who took part in the research tasted foods and beverages from McDonald's, some of them served in regular McDonald's packaging and some in plain paper. The kids, who ranged in age from 3 to 5 years old, preferred the taste of the items in the McDonald's wrappers.

So, maybe the next time your kids won't eat their brussel sprouts, you can just put it in a Quarter Pounder with Cheese box, and they'll instantly taste better! LOL!!!

CH

17!!

Being a parent is not for the faint at heart...and having a large family is one ting, but I don't know how the Dugger family does it, especially the Mom, Michelle...?!??!?!

Here's a story I read today from the AP:

An Arkansas family has just expanded to 17 children.Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar welcomed their seventh daughter into the world Thursday.Jennifer Danielle weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

Thirty minutes later, the Duggars were talking about having number eighteen.All the children's names start with the letter J. They're home-schooled and range in age from 19 right down to the newborn.There are two sets of twins in the brood. Jim Bob is a 42-year-old former state representative. Mama Michelle is 40.The Duggars' talent for having children has not gone unnoticed. The family has been featured on several programs on cable's Discovery Health Network.Discovery Health's Web page says the Duggars have gone through an estimated 90,000 diapers --so far.

Wow! I really did think a family with 4 children was big. Underestimated. :)
CH

Safety

Last night Meredith, my wife, and I were in Toys R Us, and some of the shelves were bare. The reason being is that Fisher Price has recalled over 1 million toys across the nation due to excessive levels of lead paint.

Some of the toys are Sesame Street and Elmo. Others are Dora, Diego, and Blue Clues toys.

Find a full list at:

http://www.fisher-price.com/us/default.asp

Have a great weekend, and shop til you drop!!! SALES TAX HOLIDAY! WOOO!!
CH

Having a baby...

CHANGES EVERYTHING!

Or at least that's what I've been told. Meredith and I are learning that every single day. However, it is totally worth the focus time on Jay. Although, there is something that I've noticed about being a parent that has completely shocked me...

It's not the dirty diapers...

It's not how in love we are with our son...

It's not how amazing even the littlest move or noise Jay makes, makes us smile...

See, as a parent I thought I was joining this elite, wonderful club. Turns out, it's not as glamorous as it sounds, because all of our conversations from July 12th til now, have in some form or fashion become about INPUT and OUTPUT.

What am I, in third grade??? I haven't talked this much about bodily functions since I was 9! LOL!

I guess I should feel privileged, though. Cause now I can carry on a REAL, ADULT converasation!!!!!!!

Blessings,
CH

Thus endeth the hiatus...

Hello and greetings from blog central!

It has been a long while since my last post, but I have a very good reason. In two words, PATERNITY LEAVE!!! LOL!

My wife, Meredith, and I have been very fortunate to enter the realm of parenthood with our newborn son, Jay.

Jay is a happy, healthy baby, and to our thankful surprise...is sleeping through the night (for the most part.) We're talking 5 or 6 hours, but that is great sleep!

In the coming months and years, you'll get to find out more and more about Jay, how parenting challenges us, and how rewarding it truly is.

In the meantime, enjoy the attached picture of our new addition, and continue to pray that God puts his protection, guidance, grace, and love over our son.

CH

Family Matters

This letter came from my sister who lives in North Carolina about something special that her husband, Cory, is looking to be involved in-That's them on the right:

I bought Cory new shoes and a helmet for Father's Day so that he could start biking again (road biking...for those of you that don't know what that is think Lance ArmStrong.)

Cory is doing his first race in September and needs to raise a min. of $200. So please help!
You can do this by going to the site I've copied and pasted at the bottom of this e-mail.

Also keep in mind that racing is a big thing for my husband because of his heart disease. His doctor always said he wouldn't be able to do things like biking racing/speed skating but he has proved that he can. He has actually done both!!!

His doctor also said he was suppose to have open heart surgery again at 15, but hasn't had to have it yet because he's kept his heart so healthy.

So lets help people with MS and help keep Cory's heart healthy!!!

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?px=3824506&pg=personal&fr_id=5420

Thank You!
Dorothy Simons


Just wanted to get the word out. Have a great day!
CH

Weird- But Great Idea

Check it out!

www.spaghettiicecream.com

CRAZY!

CH

S.T.M - Save Their Marriage :)

It cracks me up how true it is! When you get married, it seems that you have all these expectations of who will do what as far as the chores are concerned. Who's going to do laundry? The dishes? Eradicate the spiders?

If you're headed to a wedding this summer, you might want to consider giving the happy couple something that is irreplaceable...and may help them to really get a great start!

(Drum Roll, Please!)

Basically, it's a piece of paper. But for these purposes, we will call it a Task Master with all these chores! Beside these fantastic tasks, you will find his, hers, or take turns boxes to check! It's got all sorts of things on there, and if there are some chores that aren't listed, the creators were amazingly brilliant to place spaces for the extras! WOW!

I dunno, just a thought to place inside their wedding card, or on top of the Pyrex Casserole dish you give them :)

Click HERE for the list!

CH

That's Brat-Tastic!

When it comes to holding a cook out, your husband may like nothing more than to throw some hamburgers and bratwurst on the grill! YUM!

However, the idea of regular bratwurst taste just doesn't seem to be enough any more. After all, we throw chili, slaw, onions, relish, etc. on top...

So, some Brat makers are starting to go a bit outside the box with "flavored" brats and not what you'd expect either...Flavors range from kiwi, maraschino cherry, lemon and even aloe vera!!!

Although, there is saving grace here...one new flavor sounds fine...a "chili-honey" brat.

MMM...Aloe Vera!! Who's hungry?

CH

Sounds like a Plan

If you are planning to head out of town at any point this summer, Dunkin' Donuts wants you to come visit along the way.

They have partnered with MapQuest in order to provide your driving directions - all the while highlighting the Dunkin' Donuts locations throughout your trip. In hopes that you'll want to stop in for a treat.

Now, that's a cool idea, but what's even more... is that if you use this service, they want you to sign up to win all sorts of prizes, including $10,000.!!!! (Not too shabby for "Mapquest-ing")

Find out more at www.myicedcoffee.com

Peace,
CH

One Month

Today I have Baby Harper on the brain, because...

The major countdown for the Baby begins today:

1 Month til projected due date!!!!

7/7/07

Although, we are super-excited. I think that means my "honey-do" list just got insanely longer. :)

Have a blessed day,
CH

Baby Stuff

As our due date for Baby Harper gets closer and closer, we've started receiving wonderful fun and really cool clothes!

And it looks like I'm going to have tell Meredith to spread the word to her July Due Date Bulletin Board Mommies about a new clothing line...

Please feel free to do the same, if you know someone who is looking to dress their newborn in a hip, modern and designer style. Tell them to visit what they call --forgive the name-- Beverly Hills Burp Club, which specializes in "celebrity" baby needs.

Actually, the stuff is really fun, and not too outrageous as far as the products go. But it is expensive for what it is. The clothing line says they cater to famous mommies like Jamie Lee Curtis, Vanna White and Emma Thompson, among others. They have also been mentioned in InStyle Magazine, on the Today Show, and US Weekly.

Just about a month now til Baby Harper meets us all! YAY!
CH

Whoa

WOW!

Sorry it has been so long since I have written. It has been a crazy time as we get closer and closer to welcoming Baby Harper into the world!


Of course, I know this is just the beginning of a whole new world. So, we ask for your continued prayer support :)

CH

SUMMER IS SAVED!

And so will your kids clothing --from melting popcicles!!

You know as well as I do that most popcicles in the Hot Tennessee sun and humidity disintegrate so fast that it's hard to even get the thing in your mouth. But not any longer! Popsicle Brand has come to the rescue!

They have introduced a new product called Long Lasting Slow Melt Pops. They claim that they cling to the stick longer and thus sparing you and your kids' all the mess.

And if you needed another incentive just to try them...They're a good source of vitamin C, and have real fruit juice.

Flavors include Cherry, Strawberry/Kiwi, and Lemonade. Oh yeah, and not too worry, you'll pay somewhere around $4 for a 20-pack.

YES!

CH

You say Tomato...I say Mickey Mouse

We are decorating our nursery in Classic Disney...and my wife loves tomato sandwiches. So, I thought this was appropriate, and pretty neat!

Enjoy!

CH

A Chinese man bought a Mickey Mouse-shaped tomato from his local agricultural market.

Chen Guoping, of Dongzhuangqiao village, Zhejiang province, bought the tomato.

"It looks so much like a mouse head that I bought it without hesitation. It looks very funny," he said.

His fellow villagers all say they have never seen a tomato like it, reports People's Daily.

Daddy Boot Camp

Two words: Joy or Terror

...that may easily enough describe what might happen tonight in the back of Babies R US. I'm headed to Daddy Boot Camp this evening. We're supposed to talk about how to take care of mom and baby in the best fashion. Then, have races to build a crib, change a diaper, and all the stuff that we're somehow supposed to miraculously know before we have the baby! LOL!!

So, Pray for me tonight...and the other dads, too, in hopes that our wives don't say..."uh...he's not my husband..."



CH

Monday Night Menu

FREE!!!

If you need a quick nutritious meal for tonight, or sometime this week. Swing by the store, grab a jar of Ragu, and then, log onto www.ragu.com for some great recipes, and a FREE "Soccer Mom Shortcuts" book.

Awesome!
CH

Eat Like The Prez

Yesterday, the White House held quite a fancy party for her Majesty, the Queen. Lots of fancy food, fancy attire, and I'm sure fancy language accompanied everything. However, according, First Lady Laura Bush, our President doesn't really enjoy getting all gussied (sp?) up, and most of the time, would rather eat comfort food...

Some of his favorites are :

PB & Honey Sandwiches

Homemade Potato Chips

Sarah's Tex Chex Mix

-- Here's the recipe for the Chex Mix (Yum!):

3 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon Yucatan Sunshine (habenero pepper sauce)

1 tablespoon Tabasco

2 tablespoons Worcester sauce

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp oregano

½ tsp garlic powder

3 cups Corn Chex

3 cups Rice Chex

1 cup Wheat Chex

1 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

1 cup pistachios

3 cups pretzels

Directions:

Mix all ingredients in large bowl, spread on baking sheet and bake for 1½ hours at 200 degrees.


Enjoy!
CH

(Source: abc.go.com)

Spider-Mania

I went to see Spider-Man 3 this weekend!!!

It was okay... The special effects were great! The storyline was really good as well.


However, I think I would say that I like Spider-man 3 not for it's THEATRICS, but rather for its THEMATICS.

Here's what I mean...In my humbe opinion, the acting wasn't as great as I thought it could be. So, I focused more on the themes that could easily translate into our lives. I won't spoil the movie for you, but basically, it deals with anger, revenge, and selfishness in ways that it makes it very easy to relate. The dark suit (and the mass of stuff that causes Spider-man to have that dark suit) is a great example of what happens when you are completely surrounded and engulfed in those things aformentioned. That's not healthy for anyone.


The movie, then, helps create this incredible journey of self-discovery, and forgiveness. So, though, it may not be something I want to sepnd $7.50 on again... it surely gave me lots of food for thought.

If you would like to help design a Bible Study Cirriculum based on Spider-man...I'd be happy to place in my two cents worth. :)

CH

Healing Begins...

Thank you so much for all of your prayers, comments, and your thoughtfulness...

If you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, feel free to visit:

http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/

Today's devotion (May 3rd) was one that God knew I needed to read. The quote that sticks out to me is,

"I praise God with my hands. If I am left without hands, then I praise God with my feet. If I am left without feet, then I praise God with my spirit. Should my spirit fail me, then it is time for me to be with God."

I trust you, Lord.
CH

Little Dog

Kalla (Kay-la)
August 22, 1998-April 29, 2007

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

-We miss you, Baby Girl.

OPen a Book...

Read to your kids, because it could save your life!!

A four year old saved his Mom's life because he knew his numbers. At least the numbers 9-1-1.

The toddler called the emergency number after his mother blacked out during a gall bladder attack. He told the dispatcher, "Mommy is sick. Mommy needs an ambulance."

His mother, says he knew what to do because of his favorite book: "It's Time to Call 9-1-1: What to do in an Emergency."

The volunteer fire department will honor with a T-shirt, a plaque and a ride on a fire engine. His parents have already given him a new puppy!

That's awesome!
CH

Mommy Moments

If you had a dime for everytime your kids did something funny or embarrassing...you'd either be a Billionaire...millionaire...or at the very least, you'd get to retire! LOL!

Though I don't have the cash to pay you for those moments, I do know how you can make those adventures into the sitcom that it seems they already are.

There's a new site that is asking for your stories to be submitted, voted on, and then, be made into sitcom webisodes, starring Leah Remini from King of Queens.

Visit http://www.inthemotherhood.com/

CH

Danicng With The President

And to think that Heather Mills got voted off Dancing With the Stars:


http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=49750&cl=2510661&ch=49799&src=news

LOL!!! Our Prez can bust a move!

CH

Just for kicks!

Fill in the Quiz! It's Great!

www.findyourspot.com


CH

Relection

This is an adaptation of an amazing devotion that Shawn Groves wrote:

You've got dance lessons, soccer practice, and church...it seems that you spend more time in the van than in the bed...and that can get really tiring and so you dream that your husband comes home with a gift certificate for a free massage...but in honesty, you would gladly settle for a cheerio free car...a haircut, or ten minutes of silence without the kids knocking on the bathroom door...because you love...and honestly sacrifice so much day after day...thanked or not...if that is the case, you should know that you are more than you realize, that you are special, more valuable than any one can imagine, even to the point of letting you know that you are essential...not because of what you do...the money you spend...or the fact that you listen to a "safe" radio station...but just because you are you...and beautiful in the eyes of many, but most of a loving God.


CH

Prayers

I'm asking for your prayers for our Welsh Corgi, Kalla...

Last week, she started feeling sluggish, and started losing her appetite. Turns out, she has anemia, because (for an underlying cause that has yet to be determined) her red blood cells have been attacked by her body... she's getting better, but hasn't made it out fo the woods just yet...So, I'm looking to God, and I asking you to help in the adventure. She's a good dog, and I just want her to feel like herself again...

I would love it, also, if you would leave her a note of encouragement here.

Thanks,
CH

General Ramblings...

WOW!

Not that this is the most important thing in the world...but this is "something to talk about..."

I'm currently listening to Sanjaya singing his last notes on American Idol. I can't believe it...

---

On other notes, I went to Emory and Henry today to spend some great time with Mass Communications majors and some friends as I lead a workshop on some digital audio software. Love it!

Not only that, but I had a great discussion with Dr. Lauder--as well as a great lunch roundtable-- about all the things that surrounded Blacksburg, and how it has affected the E&H campus. It became even more close to home.

I even got chocked up as I played an audio sample that I had produced in honor of the victims.

My heart still breaks, and my prayers are constantly with you.

CH

For you and the kids...

It can be really tough to talk about tragic events with your kids. Sometimes as a parent, your words may just get caught in your throat, or you may be afraid of what to say...for fear of saying the wrong thing...

Here are some suggestions from a friend of WCQR's ministry, Dr. Tim Clinton, to help you comfort in this time of need:

Time: Limit the exposure

Talk: In age-appropriate ways, but also communicating a sense of safety

Tenderness & Touch: Make sure you are reaching out and letting them feel you close and the safety that you bring to them.

Together: Don't separate yourself

Truth: Share God's Word and pray together


CH

A Place of Hope

Here's a chance for you to help our friends in Blacksburg with the onset of today's tragedy.

You can send encourageing emails, and prayers to people of Virgina Tech through our ister station in Lynchburg, VA:

comfortvt@spiritfm.com

Thanks,

CH

Sanjaya-ize

LOL!!

Despite whether or not you are a fan of Sanjaya on American Idol, you can now have his HAIR!! This link will lead you to a site where you can upload your face to placed in the photo. I've always wanted a FAUX-HAWK.

http://www.zingfu.com/create_upload.php?scene=319


I will post mine as soon as I can.

Have a great day!
CH

PEEPS!

I LOVE EM!!! "Peeps" are one of the best things about Easter Candy. Sure, you got your jelly beans, your Creme Eggs, but "Peeps" are just so easily portable and they come in cool shapes. If you don't want to get out in the crowd at the store to grab some...you can make them at home...perfect for some time with the kids!

Marshmallow "Peepz" by Chef Francisco Migoya
Yields about 30 pieces

Ingredients (Many measuring spoons have the "gr" measurment:)

300 gr. egg whites, room temperature
450 gr. sugar
150 gr. corn syrup
150 gr. water
15 gr. powdered gelatin, bloomed in
90 gr. cold water yellow food coloring , as needed
100 gr. confectioner's sugar combined with 100 gr. cornstarch

For the yellow sugar:
200 gr. granulated sugar
Yellow food coloring, as needed


Directions:

1. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Sift confectioner's sugar and cornstarch mix over prepared pan. Combine sugar, corn syrup and water in a small pot. Over high heat, cook to 311 F. While sugar reaches this temperature, place egg whites in a small mixing bowl and whip on medium speed. Once sugar reaches the desired temperature, remove from heat and mix in bloomed gelatin, stirring vigorously with a whisk.

3. Increase mixer speed to high and whip egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Pour sugar and gelatin mixture down the side of the bowl while the machine is running. Continue to whip until meringue cools.

4. Once cooled, stir in food coloring. Add until you obtain a bright yellow color. Pour into a piping bag (or large Ziploc bag) fitted with a plain piping tip.

5. Pipe onto prepared sheet pan. Immediately after piping, sprinkle yellow sugar on top.

6. Let marshmallows set at least 2 hours.

7. Using melted chocolate and a toothpick, paint the eyes on the "peepz."

8. Reserve in a dry airtight container.

(Source:www.abcnews.com)

Enjoy!
CH