Throne Room Lush

I Think I'm Ditching My Blogger

2009-04-11T18:56:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone. Well the time has come to ditch my blogger account. I was given the opportunity to start a new blog at our church website. Here's the link if you wanna check it out. I can still post videos and Mp3's and such of upcoming music as well as pictures. I'm gonna keep my Facebook and Myspace to keep in touch with friends. I'll use the Facebook mainly to post pictures of family for my dear sweet Momma. I know that I have posted some personal stuff on here but I think I will use my closest friends for that kind of stuff as that has gotton me in trouble a couple times. I hope to see you guys comment on my new site. Goodbye my dear blogger. I remember when I created you doing a worship set at our first 24 hour IHOP meeting and the name Throne Room Lush just popped out of nowhere.

More Studio Time

2009-03-29T16:55:00.010-04:00

Well I have been slowly but surely making time in the studio. Last night a group a friends got together and sang. Something we have done often in the past. Let me tell you how privileged I felt being in the presence of people who love God as much as they do. There is a certain kind of anointing that happens when we all get together and sing that really can't be replaced. I am happy to say also that my beautiful wife was able to finally use her God given talent and sing with us on all these tracks. It was a beautiful thing to hear her. She has a strong rich voice and great tone. Anyway, enough braggin on the wife. Here are some pics and vids of the night. Enjoy.

Click this to go to my You Tube page to watch more videos of my recording adventures

Kingdom of Comfort

2009-03-04T06:17:00.001-05:00

This is a video I made to go along with what I will be speaking about on the 24th. Let me know what ya think.

I'm Going Deeper On This

2008-12-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

**This started out as an e-mail to everyone who participated in singing and arranging the carol that we sung on Sunday. But it quickly turned into something I did not expect so I decided to e-mail everyone in my address book here at Yahoo. So to the carolers and arrangers, Thank you. It was really fun and good to hang out a little with everyone. God has blessed us with great talent in the church.**

Here's what was coming out as I was writing my thanks

Everyone did a great job remembering the lyrics. I am quite sure that I, myself, will remember my part of the song for the rest of my years. All while being somewhat oblivious as to what everyone else was saying in the song. I must say I had to concentrate. This made me think of something interesting. I'm not gonna get all preachy and weird but check this out. This carol is a really intricate process of melodies and harmonies each having a distinct part. When each line is sung, it forms a rhythmic choral progression. Each melody or harmony is working as one to achieve the goal which is the song. With this being said, something hit me. Each of us were responsible for own part. We each had our own job to do to create the song. Look at it this way. The song could basically be recorded in separate places at separate times and as long as it is in the same rhythm and the same key. It will unite the melodies and harmonies and create one song. With that being said I decided to formulate a question to myself.

Could the melodies and harmonies represent the will of God in our lives?

Not what the words say but in how they are sung to form a song. If each of us is living out the will of God in our lives. Is it possible that Christ-like unity would flood the church? Could our lives intricately be woven together to create a beautiful song, maybe a new one? When each of our lives are walked out in Gods will we inadvertently unify ourselves with His kingdom, thus creating the new song that resonates from earth into heavenly places.
Let me explain my view about the new song. I believe the perfect will of God is harmonious and rhythmic. If we are created in His image, then we could say that God has used rhythm to represent the very essence of existence that being through a beating heart. Each of our steps walked, each of our prayers prayed is a blending of rhythmic patterns and harmonies. When we sync ourselves with Gods will in our own lives, we take part in His song as a whole. A song that will resonate from the earth when all flowing together in divine unity, not a man made strive to agree unity.
Knowing this gave me a new perspective about when people are called to other places or when I find myself worrying about things I don't need to worry about. In being oblivious to all the parts but confidently knowing my own I was able to accomplish the perfect will of this song. What if I could translate that into playing my part in Gods eternal song? What if we all, truly lay our lives down and begin to axe away at that giant log in our eyes? What if we take the proverbial finger and point it inward? How could we deeply change our lives by simply focusing on the posture of our hearts before the Lord?
I had never doubted the fact that the new song will arise. My question now is, how loud will it be? And to answer that, I would say, intense, kind of like a roar.

Captured,
Eric

Feeling Sick/Cops At My Door

2008-11-03T13:12:00.002-05:00

Today I feel super sick and had to miss my Monday team. This stinks because I like my Monday team and it's beginning to grow and flow a lot better. All this said I feel like crizap. My head hurts, I'm in and out of the bathroom which seems like a constant. My stomach also hurts. I'm really hoping that I didn't eat some bad chicken at the chinese buffet yesterday.

*knock at the door - 1:20pm* Cop at the door, "Is someone with you inside" Me "Just me and my daughter", "Are you sure", "Yes", "Can I walk out your back door to be sure that I have the right apartment", "Sure but I have to warn you that the back of the house is kinda messy right now", "That's OK,(on his cb), it's the next apartment over", Me "Something I should know about", "Oh we just chased this guy and he went into that apartment", "OK, good luck", "Thanks"

Man, these apartments stink. I can't stand being here any more and I want my kids to grow up in a house, rented or owned, but at least with a yard. And preferably without hoodlums. So as I lay here feeling ever so cruddy and missing my Monday team, I will pray that we somehow get into a house by the time my lease is up in July. Ahhhhh.

Shulamite Invitational

2008-10-26T17:49:00.007-04:00

Well this was my first fundraiser to ever put on or be in charge of. It was pretty nerve racking but I'm glad to say that everything turned out way better than I could have imagined. The fundraiser was to raise funds needed to purchase equipment to further the process of opening a recording studio. Eventually it would be nice to be able to have a quality recording studio to record music, messages and whatever. Not only that but to help singer/songwriters and worship teams from other churches with a chance to record a quality cd. We also want to be able to extend our services in a mobile sense going to there place of worship to record live. It's a dream but I believe that God wants to bless it. We made a lot more than I ever could of thought. Plus we had fun and got to communify a bunch. The fundraiser consisted of a hog roast, silent bake auction, hay ride, skateboard ramps, a bonfire, wonderful Indiana October weather, good music and finally a horseshoe tournament. Yep, a horseshoe tournament. There are a lot of good horseshoe players out there and we were able to set up a eight team tournament with one late entry. The battles were fierce and the finals ended up being Rick Thompson and Michael (the wonderful man who roasted the hog) vs. Kris Scheid and myself. It was a hard fought game as we were in the lead. Then I threw my second ringer which was canceled as Rick threw his own upon mine. This cancellation gave Rick and Mike the lead. The game eventually was getting to be a nail biter as the score was suddenly 19-19 (we play to 21). It was Mikes throw...................no points...............it all came down to Kris. Two more points is all we need...............he throws...............1 point..............................last throw.............it skips...............right into a point. We ended up winning 21-19. We came away with the "Golden Shoes" which we have to put on the line next year at The First Annual Shulamite Invitational. Like I said, lots of fun and we raised more money than expected. I think I could only possibly put together a fundraiser once a year. Too stressful to do this for a living.

Blog Censorship

2008-10-21T15:35:00.003-04:00

Well I had to censor some earlier comments in an earlier post. I guess when you want to vent or ask yourself questions in a public viewable way, you can't always expect people see it in the right perspective.

I Cry Every Time I watch This, Go Figure

2008-10-13T19:07:00.000-04:00

Paint

2008-10-13T18:13:00.006-04:00

Here are some before and after pics from the job I bid and did.

Sometimes Crying Is Long Overdue.

2008-10-01T16:43:00.003-04:00

Well I had almost a complete public meltdown while leading worship last Sunday. I was singing a song that I wrote about four years ago and I think the words and the message finally hit me. And I realized that just because I write a song that exuberates a surrender and an overtaking of my life by the Holy Spirit doesn't necessarily mean that that's where I am at the moment. But it has everything with where I desire to be. Sure we can go all day singing things like "I lay it all down for You" or "You complete me" or even "I will praise You". The point is that we remain aware of our current state before the Lord and that we are honest with Him about the condition of our hearts. I personally don't make the best decisions all of the time with my head but my heart is really what is crying out. Thats why it is a battle in the mind. The war rages on in our heads, do this do that, don't do this or that. I believe it is why God has chosen to look at our hearts. Davids heart was tremendously in love with the things of God. But his mind often led him to make bad decisions. In learning how to become a community I hope that I can remember this so I don't become offended when someone I know makes a bad choice. Can I look at their heart first? I can't wait until the day that my mind is actually and willingly able to follow suit behind my heart, if that makes sense.

Madi Is Starting Kindergarten

2008-08-18T23:07:00.003-04:00

Well one of my little girls is growing up fast. Madi is starting kindergarten in 2 days. Time really flies. She was really shy at her orientation and we are all nervous about her getting on the bus for the first time. I hope she adjusts well. She's growing up too fast.

I Really Don't Do This Enough

2008-08-11T23:42:00.007-04:00

It has been a long time. Between all that has been going on, it's been really hard to keep up with this site. I know I've said many times that I want to update as often as possible. And I've said that mostly to myself. But I apologize to those who actually come to this thing to see whats going on with me. In a nutshell I have been really busy. Probably busier than I've ever been before. I am at the point of slowing down and am on the other side of craziness. Between the church changing locations (which is an ordeal all on it's own), trying to get a cd finally accomplished, trying to pay bills, and trying to be a good Husband and Dad to a family of six, man I am wiped. It's getting close to that time when I need to take inventory and decide on the things that I really need to think about vs. things I don't. Yes folks once again it's time to simplify. I can slowly feel my health deteriorate. As a diabetic (which I think somewhere I forgot in my mind how big of an issue this is for my body) You are real susceptible to leg amputations if you do not take care of yourself. They say if your lags start to tingle or become numb that this is a sign. Now in my mind at this point, I cannot tell the difference between abnormal numbness or just sore legs from standing most of the day. Now I'm noticing that even if I sit most of the day there is still awkward numbness. This is caused by bad blood flow due to being over weight and a smoker. I know, I know the smoking thing and yes I am a moron. I have however decreased my smoking by about half and am on my way to finally quitting. I now smoke about five a day which by most smokers standards. Doesn't compare to the pack and a half to two packs a day. Nevertheless, does not justify my actions. the truth of the matter is that I am addicted to it. And I am praying for strength and I want my God to intervene. Ugggg. Not trying to bring anyone down but these are just some things I'm going through and now is not the time to unload. All in all, most of my work in changing locations is done. Now it's time to just try and get comfortable in a new environment. I still kinda feel like I'm in a strangers church and that they asked me to lead worship for a few Sundays. It's been about a month now and I'm just starting to realize that this is our new home. The place is so big. As always I'll end with...Anyway, here are some recent pics and vids and I'll try to post more sooner..Maybe if I ever get an office computer.

P.S. The cake is one that Erin made out of snack cakes for a wedding. She's trying to get in the biz.

Hey,Hey,Hey

2008-06-27T01:20:00.004-04:00

Well the bass parts are done, now the focus begins on guitar overdubs. This is the funnest part for me. This is a time where the creative juices start to flow. The layering everything together starts to happen about this time. Then, all that would be left is the vocals which can be tedious. Then the final mix. Ahhhh, we are so close. After it is all mixed I want to place the Cd in a couple of good artists hands, and let them listen to it. I want the art on the Cd to represent what is inside, on the Cd. I don't want some cheesy picture of me staring off into the sunset, or better yet, leaning up on a building wall in the city somewhere. Those cover shots have been done over a hundred times. I really want good solid God ordained art on the cover. Which leads me to the best transition of all. My friend Ryan is not only a dear brother, but a phenomenal artist. Not only is he an artist he is a musician and muralist as well. I can't wait to get this Cd in Ryan's hands to see what God comes up with. I am a little scared though as I know Ryan will not pour on the fluff as to what he thinks about the music on the Cd (be gentle bro). Anyway, Here is some of Ryan's art. Remember that these murals are on flat walls. The one in the big auditorium is at Morning Star where Ryan goes to church in North Carolina. Check these out.

Almost Done WIth The Bass

2008-06-16T22:00:00.005-04:00

I went to my Dads today to record more tracks on the bass. I'm using a Fender Jazz bass that is way scratched up with stickers everywhere. When I play it I feel like Krist Novoselic(for those who don't know, He was the bassist for Nirvana). It just made me feel real punk rock, like I wanted to play bass with a pick. Anyway, I'll take some pics and share em' with ya. So far I've got bass down on:

If I Fall
Ran Away
Comin' Home
Remain
Thunder In Me

We still have:

I Believe
You Are Good
You Alone
I'm Alive
Sacrifice

I go back on Wednesday to finish the rest. Thus far it has gone smooth, after I lay all the bass down we can start concentrating on the production of the song. Vocals will be the last thing to record which will be the hardest. More later.

Shalom Ya'll

Sigh***

2008-06-13T15:56:00.003-04:00

Well my Internet is up and running again (I must say at a cost $$) and I am now able to update. I had a great time with my family at Cedar Point and I was able to ride a coaster that shoots you 120 mph up a vertical 420 ft track. It was quite the rush. If I ever go to Cedar Point again it will be in the beginning of June. We didn't have to wait any longer than 30-40 minutes to get on a ride. Some, you could just walk right on and only have to wait for the next car to come. We rode all but 3 and some twice. So it was a lot of fun. Next week it's back in the studio for a couple of days to lay down bass tracks for the rest of the songs. I hope it goes smoothly. I'm gonna try to get a Cd of what we've done this far so I can start to listen to these songs more often. Just to see if any ideas come. Next week, I also embark on the journey of a road that was once traveled. And this time, I intend to clear the path.

"But the prodigal did not stay way, There was a destiny he had to keep. And I may have gave my mind a dirty day. But tonight I've got floors to sweep" - Don Chaffer

The Story Of My Life

2008-05-22T14:05:00.003-04:00

Does anyone struggle with this as much as I do. Gas is now 3.99 a gallon and I haven't seen a half tank in months it seems. Oh well, I still have my motorcycle and I suppose we could get everyone to ride bikes to the grocery store.

That's A Wrap

2008-05-12T21:58:00.003-04:00

Well, Mike, Neil, My Dad and me finished recording the necessary parts in Neil's basement. So far all of the songs now for sure have the drum parts recorded. Now it is a matter of adding other instruments, vocals and other what-nots. It feels good to have it done and I can't wait till it all starts to come together. Mt next post I'll talk a little about the concept of the album and list the final songs. Until then, enjoy this vid.

Neils Basement

Some Of My Fam

2008-05-09T00:26:00.002-04:00

Here is an old picture I found with me, my brother and my sister. This is one of the few photos (maybe the only one) in existence with all of us together. I like to keep it around cause my wife says I'm hot.....in a dirty hippy kinda way. Hey, she sought me out.

Recording Session 4 / Bringin' The Bass

2008-05-07T20:48:00.005-04:00

Well I was off to my Dads today to lay down some bass tracks for as many songs as I could. I was able to record on "Thunder In Me" and "If I Fall". Those are the longest songs thus far so later I hope to get some more done. Last Monday we laid the tracks for "I'm Alive" and "You Alone". It went real smooth and I can't wait to get the bass and vocals down on those. We are six songs in the mix so we need to record at least six more, I would hope, to have a full cd. Here are the lyrics for "I'm Alive and "You Alone".

I'm Alive:

Your right, I know better than this
To be doing the things that I’ve been
Truth, I know it comes from Your lips
And the lie is in willful sin

All my life I’ve been running in my head
In their eyes I am the walking dead but I am alive

Now I lay before Your mighty throne
In hope that You would cleanse me
Bound, by this lust and wickedness
I am Yours to be made free

All my life I’ve been running in my head
In their eyes I am the walking dead but I am alive

I know that I have turned away from You
And at times, I’m even angry
Here I am so helpless and alone
You are my hope and my day spring

All my life I’ve been running in my head
In their eyes I am the walking dead but I am alive

You Alone:

King of Kings, to You I bow
Before Your Mighty Throne
Lord of Lord I lift my voice
To You and You alone

Hallelujah

Also check out the pics from my Dads home studio and catch a sneek peek of "I Believe" on my mini player (to the right). Keep in mind that there are no vacals on the track and it is a rough mix down.

Vocals

2008-05-03T00:23:00.003-04:00

Now I am perfectly aware that I do not posses the best vocals on the planet and actually far from. My voice is an "accuired taste"(my friend Jason made this comment back when we were in a band a 17 years old) and since this comment I've come to know it's truth. I have had people come to me and say that they love my voice and I've also have had people close to me say it's really bad. Nevertheless, I enjoy singing and I try to do it with as much emotion that I possibly can. Who wants to hear someone sing when their heart is just not into it. Last week I went to Mikes house to lay down vocals for the song "If I fall" and "Thunder in me". It was a lot of fun and surprisingly relaxed. I did a couple of takes and it seemed we had em for the most part. I will go later next week to redo any parts I missed and to lay down tracks for the other songs. Here are some pics from Mikes

Recording Session 3

2008-04-23T17:35:00.006-04:00

Last Monday I found myself in Neils basement recording a song I wrote about 2 years ago originally called "Falling In Love" and then referred to as "Falling"(to many mushy things sometimes and I don't want to seem like I have Jesus is my boyfriend syndrome) into now being called "If I Fall". The song is a two part song so the second half needed a name. So in essence the song is now called "If I fall(Draw me Away)". Let's hear it for the two part song name. Iknow, Iknow......lame. Anyway, this song is really meaningful to me as it represents my ongoing struggle with honesty before God and myself. I have never actually got to hear the song as I heard it in my head until Monday. It has a nice flow and completely expresses the emotion of the lyrics musically if that makes sense. We had to record the song in two different segments as there are two different time signatures in the song. We did about five takes of each part and will sort it out later. The lyrics are as follows

If I fall(Draw me Away)

These days are getting shorter, and the nights are so long
When it seems that every choice I make, just turns out all wrong
But through everything that I have gained, I count it all as loss
For the sake of knowing You, to carry my cross

If I fall let it be, that I'm falling in love with You

All that You are, is all that I need
A Healer, a Saviour and a Lover, King of Kings
The higher I lift You, the lower I go
Now that I've found You, I will never let You go

If I fall let it be, that I'm falling in love with You

Take my life, only You remain
Draw me away, kiss me again

Draw me away, draw me away, draw me away

It should be interesting once this recording is complete because there are a lot of things to get in place. Instrument parts, vocals, soloists, choirs, samples, you know, parts. It's becoming a full time job if I really ever plan on getting this done. I NEED PRAYER!!

*all lyrics are subject to change during the recording process*

Check this out for a really cool recording session

Explaining The Lyrics Part 1

2008-04-08T19:13:00.003-04:00

Well I called this part one because I'm sure I might need to explain others along the way. There has been some thought on whether the line in the song You are Good is an acceptable thought that makes sense, so let me explain. The line in question is "Your love endures me". Let me start with the definition of endures.

endure:
v. tr.
1. To carry on through, despite hardships; undergo: endure an Arctic winter.
2. To bear with tolerance: "We seek the truth, and will endure the consequences" (Charles Seymour).

v. intr.
1. To continue in existence; last: buildings that have endured for centuries.
2. To suffer patiently without yielding.

What it is that I'm saying here is that it is the love of God that endures me, my actions, and who I am. It is the reason that I am able to continually come to God despite the fact I continue to fall short on many occasions. If you were to ask the question of "Why does God continue to accept you even though your life may seem contradictory to what God desires. What is the thing that causes Him to endure a relationship with so many hardships". The answer to that question would be, His love. It's His love that causes Him to endure this relationship with me. His love endures me. I hope this makes sense. As a writer I want to get my point across all while maintaining an artistic form in the way that I understand my relationship with Christ to be. Plus the phrase "Your love endures me" flows better than the phrase "Your love will endure me" or "Your love is enduring me". Anyway I hope this explains it.

Recording Session 2

2008-04-08T17:19:00.007-04:00

This week we hopefully knocked out two songs. When I say knocked out, I'm referring to nailing the drum parts. Everything else can be overdubbed as needed. We set out to record the song "You are good" and in doing so, it seemed to go pretty smooth. We did maybe five takes and all of them seemed pretty good. Now we can pick and choose which was the best. After that we felt pretty good so we decided to take a run at "Thunder in me". We took two takes and it really sounded good. Hopefully we were able to get those two songs wired in. Here are the lyrics to both songs.

You are Good:

Oh Lord, I am waiting, to hear You speak my name
For Your voice is sweet and Your love endures me

Oh Lord, if You are for me, then who can be against me
Even though I’m weak, You are strong

You are good, You are faithful
I am Yours, You are mine

Thunder in Me:

You thunder in me, shaking me to change
Your burning, what's inside me, only You remain
You were broken beaten, Your blood poured out for me
King of the redeemed, to You we will sing

Worthy You are Worthy Worthy is the Lord

Your beauty defines me , You are all I crave
Jasper, resounding, in Your majesty

Worthy You are Worthy Worthy is the Lord

We are waiting for Your great return
Awaken the watchmen let the incense burn
Gather the people to the House of the Lord
Surely He is coming sound the alarm

Hopefully we can knock out two more next week. Please keep us in your prayers. I also have been working hard on compiling all of my songs together. I went through my books and it seems I have about twenty three completed songs. Now the task is being able to pick the cream of the crop, which is hard to do because I have a personal attachment to them all. I think I might put that job in the hands of someone else. Plus it's interesting to hear the different styles of the songs. There are about three that are straight up bluegrass, as amazing as it may seem. Maybe that comes from all the years of listening to classic bluegrass and fixating on the Grateful Deads music. Just be prepared, this record is gonna contain blues, rock, bluegrass, arena rock, alternative and funk. But trust me, it won't be all over the place as much to sound like a compilation cd or anything. The key is in the placement of the songs. Like I said, keep us in your prayers.

Recording Session 1

2008-03-31T23:52:00.005-04:00

Today we got set up in Neils basement to start recording some tracks to the song I Believe. It was a simple set up with just two guitars, keys and drums. The basic point today was to get at least the drums close, if not complete for this track. That way later you can add instruments and even redo some of the guitar parts. I will add bass guitar later when the drums are all tracked. Tomorrow I'm gonna meet with Mike and try to lock in some keyboard/organ parts. Being in the studio is definitely a foot in front of the other type of thing. This album is not about writing the next cool worship song or trying to get my name out there. I've had the vision for some of these songs for a long time so they have developed in my mind for some time now. The point is to try and capture that vision, all while staying true to any kind of anointing that may reside on the song in general. I'm putting my heart out there and letting the listener in on my journey thus far. Like when you put your heart and soul into a painting that is representing who you are. I want this album to represent who I am and what I aspire to be. But not only that, I want it to be something that is a worthy offering to God. So making sure that we are not only playing through the songs but we are worshiping God at the same time. Sounds simple enough but you can get so wrapped up in wanting the song to come off right that you lose your focus on why you wrote the song in the first place. If our hearts are not in the right place while recording the songs then it will definitely sound dry. Oh, I got to play and record with a Martin today and it felt real nice. It was like the Lord was like "I know you really like Martins(the grocery store to, but in this case the guitar) so for your first recording session, I'll let you play this one". And boy was it nice. But in dramatic Eric fashion, I played to hard and broke a string. Ahhhh. Oh well, it's just a string. I want to list the different guitars that are used, you know basses and drums and stuff. It's the musician in me. All in all I feel like I am creating art and I just found the colors that I needed. And I pray that it all goes smooth and that there is purpose in all of it. This is my chance to capture a moment in my life. A diary of sorts. I'm gonna take my camera and try to capture some pictures to show ya'll what the sitch looks like. On that note, here are the lyrics to the first song

I Believe:

I believe, You are who You say
I believe, Your the Truth, the Life, the Way
I believe, You didn't die in vain, I believe

I believe, my sins are washed away
I believe, You've taken all my shame
I believe, Your healings’ for today, I believe

Though the trials by fire, burn me deeper everyday
Even when I can’t see, when Your right in front of me
I believe,

I believe, You've risen from the grave
I believe, Your coming back again
I believe, That all will be made clean, I believe

Though the trials by fire, burn me deeper everyday
Even when I can’t see, when Your right in front of me
I believe,

I believe in You Jesus, I believe Your the Son of Man
I believe in You Jesus, Lion and the Lamb

In the times when I feel like, I will never become free
All I do is remember, when You first said You love me, I believe

I believe in You Jesus, I believe Your the Son of Man
I believe in You Jesus, Lion and the Lamb

*Yes, I do say I believe 21 times in this song but that's the point.

Back In The Studio

2008-03-27T21:09:00.004-04:00

Well my Dad has lined up some studio time for me in the basement of Neil Kyle. Yes, Mike and Neil will be helping me on this project as well as my Dad. This is good because I feel the Kyles get a good sense of my musical style from our little stint with Jubal Forest. I will be recording some old and some new, eventually creating a good sounding studio Cd. So far this is where I'm going with the song selection

I Believe
Thunder In Me (Worthy)
You Alone (King of Kings)
My Everything
You are Good
Falling

Here are some that I would like to do if possible, to round out a full album
Arise O Lord
Remain
Capture Me

Plus I have some that I'm currently writing which I hope to have done during this time. Also a lot of the songs need to be reworked in places and lyric tightened up a little. It's all part of the process but I'm looking forward to it. We are meeting this Monday so I'll be sure to post, not only to journal the experience for myself but to let you all in on the process. Which it is a long one. Please keep me in your prayers. This is something I've wanted to do for a long time and with the right people. So God is definitely lining it up.

Steve Thompson For President

2008-03-27T01:18:00.002-04:00

My friend Ryan called me up and told me to check this out. He regularly attends MorningStar and told me that the video people there decided to have some fun with editing. He said they ran it at the church and everyone got a kick out of it. I thought it was hilarious, especially the Rick Joyner parts. Leonard had me cracking up to.

Jeez

2008-03-25T15:36:00.006-04:00

I woke up this morning to find that the wind had blown in such a correct manner to catch the tarp covering my motorcycle. Needless to say, the wind knocked it over. When I looked out my front window I was kinda in disbelief. Luckily there were only a few minor scratches. I decided to put the bike on my back porch so the wind could not catch a full gust, strong enough to knock over a motorcycle anyway. I haven't posted in a long time and I don't feel bad about it. Usually I do, but this time I don't. I've been really trying to understand where God wants us to go, as a worship team and congregation. Our Sunday mornings have been good (with a few snags here and there, musically). People seem to be drawing closer to God and there is an excitement and a refreshing that comes along with it. But more about that in another post. This one is just to catch up. My friends "The Scheids" are coming home in late May and I am eager to hang and seek and play music with my friend Kris again. Plus having Jean and the kids back makes for an exciting summer for me, my wife and family. I'm looking forward to the warm weather this year like never before. I'm just ready to open the windows and really enjoy spring. I sure by the time it gets really hot I will long for fall. But, that's why I live here. The changing of the seasons is awesome. But the older I get, the more I long for a consistent temperature. You know, like 77 - 87 degrees, all year around. Well I'm gonna bail now. The day is full of things to do and places to rest.

Freedom

2007-11-16T23:19:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite poets is Josh Garrels

A Thankful Heart......Part 1

2007-11-14T19:04:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's been a long time. I am not going to promise a post anymore. I've learned my lesson. At any rate I have been preparing to speak about the importance of a thankful heart. To say the least I've been getting rocked on this issue ever since I was asked to speak about it. It's hard to realize that your not thankful enough. As a worshiper it is enlightening to see how often I come to God without being thankful for the simple fact of who He is and What He's done. Always having an agenda to accomplish in worship. That being His presence or for the Spirit to move. That is usually my utmost concern. That God shows up. Not often do I spend time before I enter in, preparing my heart to receive by being thankful for the many blessings in my life. It's been good because it has changed my perspective on life itself. Focusing on what God has done and thanking Him for it. The words "You are good" mean a lot more these days. All this being said, I have to speak tomorrow. I've never been a real good speaker. Nor have I often had the opportunity to practice and get better. God is faithful though and I'm not nervous, well maybe a little. I pray that I can encourage and give a little hope to people.

Organized Chaos

2007-09-27T21:52:00.000-04:00

I have been an organizational fool the past couple of weeks. I like to be organized in my own life but when your job is to come in and organize someone elses it can tend to be frustrating. Frustrating within, not with them of course. I guess that I tend to be organized because all while growing up my life was in complete chaos. I had no goals or any desire to prepare for the future. My Mom calls me her "free spirit" if that gives you ant clue to my childhood. Now, after surviving those brutal years I tend to over prepare sometimes. I love spontaneity and would never sacrifice that for an organized plan. But I do like to at least have a prepared option. Anyway, boring post I know, but I am committed to posting at least once a month. Maybe when I get more time I'll shoot for twice a month. Yippee!!

Sorry About The Mini Sermon

2007-09-09T23:58:00.000-04:00

Ok, so it seems that God is overwhelmingly dealing with me on some issues that I may need to address within myself. Not sure about others but this seems to happen on a regular basis and if it doesn't I begin to ask myself if my pursuit is even advancing. Anyway, it seems that I often try to put God into some kind of form. For example, something is done and the presence of God shows up and the tendency is to think, well God showed up last time we did a, b and c so that must be the formula to His presence. I would just like to say that I believe that when we put God into a form we are totally missing out on the very thing that God wants to accomplish, that being freedom. Most of us, if we were really honest with ourselves, would recognize that we have done this in some way. Through a worship service, a message, or a word. The problem with putting God into a form is that we begin to rely on the form instead of God. Basically it's a form of idolatry that begins to take root in our lives and we go living our walk from one form to the next. Then when we get around to realizing that God is not there we search the Christian realm to find where God is at next. I'll frankly say that usually by the time we find it, God has already left that thing, because it was made another form and we are getting and experiencing only remnants of His presence, which we associate with His actual presence. Make sense? If not I understand because I tend to get long winded and I don't feel like retyping. Let me just say this. One of the greatest acts of spiritual warfare is to wait on God. The enemy would so rather have us trying to keep busy on finding the next form, or giving our lives to a form than to actually wait on God and move as He moves, not moving where He's been. Waiting can be just as powerful as just being. Being who you are instead of dressing yourself up like your brother to receive a blessing. There is no fooling God, so those who are afraid to be themselves aren't looking for Gods blessing they're looking for mans. But hey we all go through this stuff right. It's all part of "the journey". So why is it that no one wants to hear it until it comes from a valid and comfortable source. I guess that goes into another subject which would be an issue of rank. This blog is already to long so I will tackle that another day. Point you ask? If you do have a form or formula in which you think God responds, chances are, your relying on the form more than you are on the Holy Spirit to lead us into the presence of the Father. God wants nothing more than for us to finally surrender all of the bull and simplify our walk with Him. We just gotta be willing to let it go.

Yes, I am Excited About The Colts

2007-09-06T20:34:00.000-04:00

I am not ashamed to say that I enjoy watching the Colts. Just wanted to let Ya'll know. Kickoff is on the way. Gotta run.

Fwa-bapp!?#!

2007-09-01T02:43:00.000-04:00

Not sure why but I have always stayed up really late. It's quarter till' three in the mornin' and I am just starting to get tired. I woke this mornin' at nine or so. Once I got home today I felt that I could nap but I pushed through thinking I would get to bed at a decent time. Yeah Right! Right now I am so exhausted I can't think straight. All this to say that I know I need to get up early tomorrow and that I will go to bed late and so on and so on. Pretty soon something will have to give and I will catch a good ten hour sleep night. I remember when I was a kid and I would stay the night at my friends house and we would stay up all night. We would have a couple of friends stay over and the first one asleep either got his legs shaved, drenched with garlic pills (they'd smell for a few days after, even with showers) or shaving cream in the hand. We'd feather they're nose to make it itch and wham! They'd wake up to the flavor of Barbasol. We were bad kids. Well not really bad, just creative and bored. There's an oxymoron for ya'. G'night all.

I Miss My Friends

2007-08-31T01:08:00.000-04:00

I would like to say that I miss Kris and Jean. There is rarely a time when you run across a brother who not only is fun to hang out with but is as real as it gets. Kris was and is just that to me. Here was a man that seemed to never judge me for my mistakes and only encouraged me to be all that God wants me to be. He never said those specific words to me but through his actions and him sharing his struggles with me, I would assume it would be something he would say. We are on this journey and it never fails that God will bring the right people into your life at the right time. Kris undoubtedly taught me how to relax and let God work things out. And all of this he did by just living his life. A servant and a brother he is. I would just like to say that it is very rare when people like this come along. This is for Jean too. These are the kind of people that open their home to people in need and give their time for the good of the cause. They live it out, every stinking hard step that it is, they live it out. When they left, there was no grand send off, no tears, no remember whens, no recognition of service. Let it be said that God uses people like this because they never looked for recognition. Only some friends to share their lives with. One of the last things I said to Kris and Jean before they left was "Well man, I just want you to know that you guys will always have friends up north, remember that." I trust that being called a friend to them, is just as important as it is to me, and as it is to God. It is an honor to have them as friends. It makes me want to look around and see what valuable friendships I have overlooked because of just plain stupidness. Kill the clique, find a friend.

*Kris and Jean don't actually dress like this - this was an 80's party

Stress Relieva

2007-08-26T18:11:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics of my new bike. It is really fun and peaceful to ride around town while copping a cool breeze. I was washing it today and noticed a piece of metal sticking out of my back tire. Most likely a nail from driving on C.R. 26 and all the construction. Not sure how much a new tire will be but the bike is wrapped up till I get one. To think I've rode this long and haven't noticed scares me, though it could have happened today. I'm not sure what I would do if the tire burst while going 65. Probably curl into a ball and pray for the best.

Oh Jeez

2007-08-22T15:42:00.000-04:00

My friend Ryan who moved to South Carolina awhile ago came for a visit. Ryan is a real friend and has been hugely missed by me. For me, he is a breath of fresh air because he pursues God in a way that most people don't. Fervently. Ryan is a gifted painter and musician and I just miss hanging out. Sometimes I struggle with boredom. Not that I want to be constantly doing something because I love to relax too, but there seems to be a fine line. Let me give an example of an average thought process that creates a feeling of boredom."Hmm, I'm bored maybe I should find something to do, well, I'm sick of the Internet, Every video game I have I've played a million times, T.V. is lame and there is nothing interesting ever on and Seinfeld doesn't come on till' like ten, Maybe I should read, Arrrg reading makes me tired and I don't want to sleep." That's just an example, I know, I know, I should pray or do something constructive but let me tell ya folks, I've made it a habit to pray continually through conversation in my normal relationship with Jesus, not to say that I shouldn't make time to meditate. But at this time, I hardly have the attention span. I know maybe I can go for a ride (motorcycle that is). That always seems to clear my mind in a way that nothing else can. And it relieves boredom. In other news it's interesting to see the many changes taking place as I mentioned in my last post. Through everything I notice more and more the changes that are happening in me. How God is allowing me to understand the dynamics in relationships and how they work. I'm not saying that I have attained anything. Far from it. But God is letting me grow and I can say, I'm not who I was yesterday.

New Things Are A Comin'

2007-08-19T18:38:00.000-04:00

God, has been so generous, to allow me to go through many things in my life up to this point. I feel like I have certainly learned many things and I am still learning many others. For some reason, God has allowed me to enter into a somewhat new journey, that being leading worship for the Voice Ministries Sunday service known as Voice 17. It has been really exciting to watch what God has been doing to this Ministry and it's leaders. It seems that God is restoring a family atmosphere within the ministry. There is a realness returning. Through all of this, it will be my job to create a worship team from scratch. Though it may have it's crazy moments, I'm positive that God will use this time to allow even more growth in our understanding of what it means to be a worshipper of Christ.

Blog Envy

2007-08-03T11:31:00.000-04:00

Man, I really envy those who can keep a blog going nonstop. It's been two months since my last blog and I bet my poor mother is just beside herself about the whole thing. She calls me and says "Ok Eric, I'm tired of looking at those clouds." When I first started this thing I wanted the coolest blog on the block but I guess sometimes that life takes over instead. I always go to my site and I'm like "I should write something, ehhh, I'm to tired." Well today I guess I could write about my new motorcycle, which I might add is one of the biggest stress relievers I've ever known. Well at least while riding, maybe not the payment thing. I ride it everywhere. Erin likes it to, at least I think she does. We have the kids so her rides are far and few between. I said if she got her license/permit
I would teach her how to drive it, but when I said that, she just looked at me weird. There are quite possibly a lot of changes on the horizon, some of which I can't talk about now. But, please pray a quick prayer when your done or while reading this. Pray that Gods timing would prevail. That's all.

Today

2007-05-30T20:23:00.000-04:00

Today I went outside, looked in the sky, and saw this.

The Question?

2007-05-02T20:27:00.000-04:00

To post, or not to post?

Concert Pics

2007-04-07T19:25:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics from last nights show. It was fun and interesting. The photos were taken by Kris's dad. Kris told me that photography has always been a fun hobby for his dad. He said he used to have his own dark room before the digital age took over. I thought it would be fun and have him come out and take some pics.

Check out Kris and the lean back.

Recording And So On And So On

2007-03-30T00:21:00.000-04:00

Well today was a fruitful day as far as recording goes. We spent about five hours laying down tracks for the first half of "Falling in Love". It's starting to sound like it should and is coming together nicely. Part of the hard part is using the drum editor and making it sound like a real drummer. I've been continually impressed by the program, cause if you use it just right, it sounds very real. But it takes a lot of time. So far though we got the basic gist of about, maybe 4 songs. only about 7 more to go. I have been toying with the idea of taking some of the material from the first album and recording it in the studio. Songs like "Change", "Strangely I Find" and "Rescue Me" but I'm not sure yet. There are definitely things on the old Cd which I think could be better. That's it for today though. Here are a couple of pics of me laying down some electric guitar parts with the guitar that Kris built with His hands. Maybe some sound clips soon on myspace. It's over there in the links section.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Freedom

2007-03-26T20:04:00.000-04:00

This is a clip of a Jason Upton song called "Freedom" (old song, new band) Anyway, there is a great annointing on this song and this video contains a cool jam section.

Here are the Lyrics:

Freedom:
Back in the bible there was that old Pharaoh
Who ruled over Egypt and Israel
God spoke to Moses through fired up bushes
Said kick off your shoes and stay awhile

All of humanity was made to worship me
Pharaoh get outta my way, God is sayin'

Freedom to dance, Freedom to sing
Freedom to grow
I'm telling you Pharaoh let Gods people go

Worship now, Worship now
Worship your God, let 'em go

Well, we live in a country supposedly Pharaohless
But all over town and in churches abide
Powerful weeklings who practice they're politics
Stealing from Jesus his beutiful bride
Whether you're Pharisees, Sadducees, heresies
You best get outta God's way God is sayin'

Freedom to dance, Freedom to sing
Freedom to grow
I'm telling you Pharaoh let Gods people go

"Yet Hope Remains"

2007-03-25T18:42:00.000-04:00

Lots going on these days I guess. I was just confronted on my back porch with the thoughts of my greatest fear. Or more so "what is my greatest fear?" And I have decided that when I am confronted with the thoughts of death is when I am most afraid. It's not really the actual dieing that scares me. But it is the cause of me potentially missing out on living on this earth watching my kids grow, loving on my wife and enjoying those spontaneous moments of laughter with friends. The hardships in our lives cannot replace an instant of genuine laughter. In reality my health has not been to good. I was just recently told that I have diabetes. I'm not sure what type yet but my blood sugar is really high. When I first went in it was like 570 something but I have been able to maintain at about 250 or so. which is still high by normal standards. But with this also comes the thoughts of other serious things happening due to the diabetes. Anyway, I am ashamed that it has taken something like this to slap me awake to learn how to take care of myself. Like eating right, maintaining ideal body weight and making good choices. I always say to my kids before they go outside to play. I say "make good choices". Through all of this I am also confronted with faith and as I would like to say that I would never waiver I find there is a shifting sometimes in my faith. I want strong faith. But I waiver. This is probably one of the truest statements I could say about myself. Through thinking this out I thought "I'm sure that one of the greatest human fears is death" To the world it seems so final. The fear is, never being able to think thoughts or see anything anymore or talking with someone else. You know, darkness. Then I thought, If the greatest fear of man is death, Then the message of eternal life would be the greatest hope a man could have. This is where faith steps in. We are saved by grace through faith so at some time in our lives we believed only by faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. We believed there was a God in the first place. So why does our faith waiver through time and circumstance. Yes we are saved by grace but we have to believe we are. Just as this is true I want to believe that I will be healed or more so am healed according to the will of God. So through it all I have hope. Hope that I can have the will power to change my life and diet. That when I am weak, I can rely on God to strengthen me because it is easier to give in. I definitely need a influx of self control. Well I looked away for a moment and lost my train of thought. Bye all. The upside is I've already lost about 20 pounds. I need to lose about 30 more (yikes)

Valentines Festivities

2007-02-15T18:05:00.000-05:00

Erin and I were lucky enough to get out this Valentines Day. We went to a catered dinner and concert at The Crossing - Middlebury. The cost was thirty bucks a couple and we were treated to various breads and dips, chicken alfredo, veggies and roasted potatos, and cheesecake for dessert. Following the dinner was an intimate performance from Josh Garrels. Josh is a awesome singer songwriter that has performed everywhere including Conerstone for the last few years. Josh is a great singer and I would compare his voice to some of the best out there. Check him out here.
Here are a couple pics from the night. We were also happy to enjoy our dinner with Jay and Katie Brewer. Good friends that we haven't seen in awhile so that was fun to catch up. Jay is a great bass player who also plays upright (yes we've had a few fun bluegrass jams)

Where Ya Been?

2007-02-13T20:10:00.000-05:00

In case ya'll have been wondering where I've been lately I thought I'd use this post to maybe clear some things up. To get to the point I have been concentrating on writing and recording the original material that I have compiled over the last few years. In August, when the live recording was erased, I felt the Lord telling me to come away. Since then I have done a lot of thinking and a lot of praying. Long story short I have found a lot of things in my life that I need to be cleansed of. There are a lot of things I need to forgive for, in myself and others. I realized that I had released God from my box only to build a bigger one around Him. I realized that in my box also existed religion, elitism and disunity. My family has become a very important factor in my life and unity with my wife has become the utmost. My goals are now different than what they were three months ago. My beliefs are now different then what they were three months ago. My relationship with Jesus is more real than ever, because I've learned to be real with Him. My life is no longer consumed by "doing". I also had to ask myself the question of whether or not I was "on-board" with everything that was happening and going on around me. And I guess it is weird when you run into people and the first thing they say is "are you still going to so and so?". Like I'm supposed to break it down in the middle of an aisle at Wal-Mart. For me there are just to many things that I feel checked about. That's not to say ANYTHING negative at all by any means. Until I get things figured out in my family and my walk, I would rather step away (not down) than sow disunity. Make sense? Because my views toward certain things may differ, I am not pointing a finger at anyone or anything. I am simply trying my best to make sure that I am walking in the will of God for my life. As I am sure everyone is. And though my path may be different. I can still be in unity with the one who is walking His path for them. We can all agree that Gods will is the most important thing that we can accomplish right? So we can agree that when one is on the road to accomplishing Gods will it should be something that is celebrated. So now that that's out of the way, God has been opening and closing doors and it has been an adventure seeing what God is doing. It's been awesome over at "Bikers at the Crossing" in Goshen. The people there are so honest and hospitable. They've asked if I would lead the service the first Sunday of every month which has been an honor. These people are really after the heart of God. I was led to sit in with another worship team at "The Lighthouse" in Goshen after the Pastor called to see if I could help them out. I said yes and to my surprise Mike Kyle walks through the door. It was great playing with Mike again and after we talked it looks like Mike is gonna join us on drums the first Sunday in March. It should be great. That service we will be worshiping the whole time, which is about an hour. I really feel that God is reconnecting some relationships that were never supposed to be separate in the first place. Well, all in all I've been fine with this transition. I still love and adore all those who I don't see that much anymore and am forever grateful to them for helping God shape who I am. But now it's time for me to walk my path. About five or so years ago I received a prophetic word from a woman at a Morning Star worship conference. She said that she saw me in a room, kinda like a college dorm. And I was playing guitar and singing songs (keep in mind she knows nothing about me). She says That I am writing these songs and I'm wondering why I can't get out into the world and sing these songs. Then she said the Lord gave her a picture of me in that room and that I was barefoot. She felt the Lord saying that I have not left the room because my shoes have not been made. The path that is laid for me by God requires specific shoes that He will make. To me it says that God has designed for me the shoes I need to withstand the road that lies before me. In all of this I truly believe that my shoes have finally been made. Now I am mustering up the faith and courage to walk.

Snow Fun

2007-01-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

Well it finally snowed here in the region and the kids are excited and decided to go play in our backyard field. They made angels and threw snow on each other. I decided to post a few pics of the snow fun. They did this while I was in the studio. Madisen looks like the younger brother in "A Christmas Story". This week we are going sledding which should lend to lots of fun and screams. Know any good hills in the area? Let me know!! Nothing to far, plus we don't want to pay. Just some good old fashioned find a hill and sled action.

Over A Month

2007-01-24T19:32:00.000-05:00

Well it's been over a month since the last post. I think about posting all the time but for some reason it seems to great a task. Maybe I'm just not that interesting at the moment. Who knows? I've decided that my one gift from my tax check this year will be an Ipod. Preferably a 30 gig Ipod. Right now I have a little over 10 gigs of music on my computer and would love to transfer it all to the pod. I figure I could hit shuffle and probably not here the same song for 6 months. I like the idea of having my own Ipod because it's kinda like you can hold the soundtrack to your life in your hand. You can tell a lot by a person by what kind of music they listen to. Then again there are people who listen to certain types of music because the main trend in society claims it to be good. In most cases, it's simply not true. Arrg, I have the most death defying itch on my foot, jeez. I guess I could be considered somewhat of a music snob. Which is ok with me, I guess. I'm just picky and it seems music influences a lot in life. "Does art imitate life, or does life imitate art?" Theres a question for ya.

The Man

2006-12-14T15:24:00.000-05:00

There is this new thing on My Space that allows you to sell your songs via your "MySpace". So I'm thinkin that this sounds like a great idea and I click the link to set it up. That's when I was made aware that, for some reason or another, I have always had a suspicion about the internet and "the man". For some reason I dread using my real name on stuff and especially giving out credit card information. Don't get me wrong, I have bought things off the internet and have used e-bay a few times. But I still dread it. Ever since I was a kid I feel like I have been pumped thoroughly with doses of conspiracy theories through movies, news, media in general. The thought of always being lied to by corrupt politicians and greedy tv evangelists. It just made me think about how much stock was put into my life to make sure that I would turn out to be someone who is always questioning the motives of everything. Also not being able to trust while remaining in fear that at any moment, my life could be taken away. Then you have the issue of, is it all made up to keep us in fear. Or is it real, and made a mockery of to keep us in the dark. Don't worry I'm not a paranoid freak or nothing but I'm conscious that something suspicious is there. Oh well, maybe I'll do the song thing, not sure yet. I need to make sure the thing is ligit. Maybe I'll give it a few months while I work on my "suspicions of the man" :)

Hooray For A Picture Post!!

2006-12-08T13:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures of a couple of recent events (within the last year). The first is my wife and I playing at The Crossing in Middleburry. The second is at an Open Heavens gathering. The others are just random. Soon I'm gonna get some pics of our recent studio time for everyone to enjoy. Take care all.

Erin and me @ The Crossing - Middleburry

Leading Worship - Open Heavens

Bob Deering and I

Leading Worship - Open Heavens

Extreme Close Up

Kris And I Jammin In My Living Room

Heres One of the Hairy Chin

The Light of My Life

My Army!

Random Thoughts

2006-12-02T02:55:00.000-05:00

For the last few days I have been trying to get in the studio and start to get some stuff down. It's been fun to hear things come together in the process. We're using a program that samples a real drummer to different beats. I have, until recently, been a huge skeptic about these sort of programs because I had just felt well...uncertain about it. Call me weird. Anyway, the program we are using is remarkable and we have barely tapped into it. There are so many possibilities and options, plus things you never really thought of, or heard. Once we got a solid beat for a skeleton through the song I was able to lay down a bass track. I think a lot about bass when I'm writing music for a song. I have always felt that the bass guitar really directs the progress of emotion through the song. Kinda like a "point A to point B" journey through music. The bass directs. At any rate it was good to hear the bass and drums together. To be able to get the music stuff that is in my head out and into a computer and back out through speakers is a comforting feeling to a guy like me. We got three songs where bass and drums are recorded, I Believe, Thunder In Me, and My Everything. We'll go back after the rhythm guitar and other things are recorded and add drum accents here and there. Like fills and crashes and rid cymbals, you know stuff like that. It would be cool to somehow let everyone in on the process of recording this stuff. I think most would be amazed to hear a song go from baby to toddler to teenager to adult. When it comes to the recording process anyway. Maybe I'll get some pics up of me and Kris in his home studio. It's lotsa fun. So far I got seven songs written and am also in the process of writing more. I would like the CD to be a ten to twelve song CD. I really believe that when it's done. I will honestly be able to say that "If you want to know who I really am, listen to this CD". For me that would be a real accomplishment. I just want to offer something genuine. I don't want to think about a certain goal when it comes to writing. For example, Like what is a worship song and what's not. Or think, will people be able to enter into worship with this. Those thoughts have plagued me often and I forget why I write in the first place. To commune with my God. These songs are first, experiences I have with God in moments of prayer. I more or so decide whether or not I'm going to let people in on it. It is weird because sometimes I feel like I could be putting myself out there, and in some sort of weird way, it's getting harder to do. Maybe I'm just weary. Well I know this blog was jumbled so I apologize. More on all this stuff individually later.

All We Gotta Do Is.........

2006-11-28T04:08:00.000-05:00

This is good.

Cool Quote

2006-11-23T22:23:00.000-05:00

So I was watching Larry King live last night. His guest was James Dobson of Focus on the Family. Larry King decided to ask him his thoughts on hurricane Katrina and why he thinks God would do something like this. James Dobsons reply was simply this:
"I, by no means, understand what is going on in the mind of God as much as a dog can understand what's going on in mine". After hearing this I was reminded that faith is still at the helm of the ship. Remember folks that we can think we understand what God is doing in our time but we still only see dimly as looking through a glass. When we are so driven by what we believe God is doing. It may be time to step back and question our motives and agenda. I am not called to understand why God does what He does. I am called to love Him with everything I have and to love others as I love myself. We can spend a life time trying to accomplish understanding of our King. But it will surely be wasted if we do not love in the capacity that He desires us to love. Seek love over all things and truly the mysteries of God will be revealed to us in the right time according to His will. Now if I could just figure out how to love myself.

Just Do What You Feel

2006-11-11T02:33:00.000-05:00

I am looking forward to playing again next week. It has been some time since I've played a coffee house or sang with my wife. When we sing songs it just feels natural, like we're not trying, but it's happening. I wish I was better at picking out vocal parts for my original songs. I trust her and her voice. So I usually end up saying "Just do what you feel". Then I got to thinkin.

This Is Like, Some Really Good Stuff...Well About The Book

2006-11-09T18:38:00.000-05:00

So I'm reading a book that came out last year called "The Barbarian Way". I am only 15 pages in and have been rocked. I relate to the subject matter in so many ways. I am kinda a "full force" guy when it comes to believing in what I believe. When I gave my life to Jesus it was a done deal. Since, I have never questioned whether my decision to accept Christ was valid or not. It was simply something that needed to be done in order for me to have any ounce of sanity. It was simply the love of God that wooed me from the dark intent of my heart. Out of all the things I have subjected myself to, the message and the crucifixion of Christ was the only thing that ever made sense. Anyway that is a whole nuther story. To the point Eric. I find myself never questioning the motives of God. I do however question my own wants and desires (same thing - inside joke jp~) Arrg these rabbit trails. I however am not perfect and I fall so very short all of the time but, I have realized in my barbarianess I will not be stricken down. I will not let sin defeat me. I will not let spiritual accusation consume me. And I will wear my scars boldly as I know that the way to the heart of God is a devastating road. With that being said I would like all who read this excerpt to consider the possibilities of your barbarian ways.

"From the moment Jesus walked among us the invasion began. And just as with those who crossed paths with Him here on earth, those who are most religious will be most offended and indignant. Barbarians are not welcome among the civilized and are feared among the domesticated. The way of Jesus is far too savage for their sensibilities. The sacrifice of God's Son, the way of the Cross, the call to die to ourselves, all lack the dignity of a refined faith. Why insist on such a barbaric way? Why a reckless call to awaken the barbarian faith within us at the risk of endangering this great civilization we have come to know as Christianity? Because Jesus did not suffer and die so that we could build for ourselves havens, but so that we might expand the kingdom of His love. Because invisible kingdoms are at war for the hearts and lives of every human being who walk on the face of this earth. And times of war require barbarians who are willing to risk life itself for the freedom of others"

In some way shape or form I think that Christians have become so wrapped up in agenda and pride that we forget about the thing that makes us Christians in the first place. The fact that we have given ourselves to God to accomplish His will, not our own. And that we've tried to recruit those who surround us to build man made kingdoms with man made rules. We can't keep taking God out of a box just to put Him in a new one. Just because the box is larger, doesn't mean it will house Him. Freedom in Christ? I hope I and the church will get there someday. Until then, I'm ready for a revolution!

Why Blog?

2006-10-01T17:05:00.000-04:00

I have noticed that I have been lacking in the blog area again. So I decided that I will not be to hard on myself and that I would just try to keep up with life as I try to keep up with this blog. I am convinced that no one reads this any way. Which reminds me why I decided to write this imparticular blog. A friend of mine told me that they decided not to blog anymore because someone read their blog and decided to confront them about the thoughts on the blog. Jeez, can I say blog one more time in that sentence. Any how it reminded me about why I blog in the first place. This being freedom of thought. See I feel by letting the world in on my thought process I can actually be of help to those who may be going through the same types of things that I am experiencing. To even ponder that someone shouldn't have certain opinions or thoughts seems like we would want to make everyone just like we are. Which I'm sorry but that is totally wrong (my opinion). My hope in writing this is to encourage those in one: that they continue to express themselves no matter what others think, and two: that those who criticize other people thoughts and feelings would take a look at themselves and ask "why do I have to point out others short comings so I can feel better about my walk and what I do" Our job as Christians and in accountability is not to go rummaging through someone's house looking for sin, but if we happen to see sin, to try to help the individual out of it through love, not criticism. There is a fine line between helping someone along through their walk and letting God do His work in them, than stepping in and deciding you know what's best for them in a situation. Especially if you know that the person is currently seeking God. Let God move and get out of the way. Your walk is your own and God will work because He is sovereign. So to this person, I hope you read this and that you would continue to blog, because I enjoy your thoughts. And really when it comes down to it. Who cares what others say, if you know in your heart that you are pursuing God. Because in the end those people won't be there with you. But they will be answering to God for their own actions.

Rich Mullins

2006-09-19T22:01:00.000-04:00

Today is the aniversary of the death of Rich Mullins. Rich (though I was saved after he died) was and is an influential man of God in my life. I would and do encourage all to read his writings and listen to his songs. Rich continues to be one of the most real men of God I have ever had the chance to listen to. I just thought I would give Rich a tribute for being an essential influence. Thanks Rich, your legacy lives on through Christ.

What??!!??

2006-08-31T21:51:00.000-04:00

Well the concert felt really good and there was a lot of positive feedback. Though some of the songs were unknown to the majority of the people, I saw many of them singing the lyrics and they seemed to be genuinely worshipping, which I found to be exciting. There was definitely a movement of God in the room at times throughout the show. I think really all in all it was an excellent night and I was able to introduce my music to a willing audience. When it was all said and done I found out that Mike (our sound guy) plugged the HD24 recorder into the power strip that my dad normally plugs all of his gear into. And unbeknownst to him he routinely turned the power strip off at the end of the night. Now I want to make perfectly clear that there is not a single person at fault here. Simply an honest mistake and really not even that. Mike saw an outlet and plugged it in, my dad did what he does every Tuesday night and turned his power strip off, which I will say now that, Ahem.... All of the data was lost for the recording. Surprisingly I feel OK about this unfortunate event because I believe that God is in control. Now there will be no way to replace the atmosphere that was established last Tuesday, but maybe God has something else in mind ie: another show, studio recording, nothing at all. I'm not sure what God has in store but I would like to hear from all who read this for suggestions. Should I do another concert? If so, how long should I wait? Should I do it totally different? Should I just let it go? I am at peace with whatever God wants but, I believe He will make it more clear through you guys. So let a brutha know.

IIIIIIII'''''''''''MMMMMM BBBBAAAACCCKKKK

2006-08-25T22:16:00.000-04:00

Anyway, I finally got my laptop back in order and let's hope it works. My minds for the last couple weeks have been consumed with this coming up concert. I guess I just hope that people are blessed by the songs and that it proves to be a good atmosphere for worship. I guess it's hard to find help to get things started as a musician. It's funny how when your "no one" in the music world people barely want to help out or say that they will.**edit: this pertains to no one in particular but is the feeling I get in my own woundedness because I unintentionally put my priorities above others. I see this and hate it...end edit** But we all know if Martin Smith showed up to church to do a gig they'd be lining up down the street to help out. Anyway, I hope all goes well. I believe God has a great purpose for this night (Tuesday August 29th at the meeting place in Elkhart)I just hope I do not get in the way.

Prayer* God, purify my heart. My ways are not Yours. Sorry for all the crap that I think and do. Use me dispite my ways. Your will be done.

S.O.S Need Computer

2006-07-26T16:58:00.000-04:00

To anyone who has an old computer sitting around, I need it. My home computers video card is dead and it's built into the motherboard. My laptop is way freaked out and very unstable(it took over a week to insall a fresh windows on it cause it kept shutting down) Anyway, if any of ya'll have an old computer (even a dinosaur) let me know I could use it until we can afford a new one. At any rate, all is well, growth is interesting, banners are waved, love prevails, the crucified life is imminent and His joy is my strength.

It Is For Freedom

2006-07-06T00:48:00.000-04:00

I was thumbing through my journal the other day and ran across this old writing. The first word in my journal is "Freedom" and it reads as follows:

Freedom - Freedom is not what one is when there is a lack of rules or when another doesn't have authority over you. Nor is it one who is able to do what he wants regardless of rules, laws or consequence. Freedom comes when one is walking in the true will of the Father. A freedom comes when you know that you feet are exactly where they are supposed to be. Freedom is being trumpeted in the land. Freedom cannot be contained. Freedom will not be ignored. The spirit of freedom will prevail.

Galatians 5:13 reads "For you were called to freedom brethren, only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love, serve one another."

We are called to freedom. We are called to walk in the will of the Father. So often we turn freedom, or what we perceive freedom to be, as an opportunity for selfish gain. But our Father desires us to use freedom as an opportunity to love one another. I am not serving or loving with a true spirit if I am not walking in the will of God.

Prayer - "Lord I desire my every step to be ordained by Your perfect will. Please allow me to see when my flesh is after selfish gain and when I am loving or serving in the flesh. Quickly allow me to regain any steps lost in the path you have for me"

There are many traps and snares along the path of freedom. The enemy fears a man walking in true freedom. What is more dangerous to the kingdom of darkness than a man walking in the will of the Father. The traits of a man walking in freedom are humility, love, fruit, service, wisdom, perspective, power and authority. Through obedience, holiness is not unattainable for we are one. Seek my will, deny your flesh,hear My voice, hear the trumpet sound. Freedom is near, it will come, it cannot be stopped. The closer you come to Me, the closer you come to freedom and freedom is My will for all. - end entry

I read that today and it reminded me that God still has a plan for my life. Though I am still seeking His will I am never-the-less a "Freedom Fighter". So that being said, it is for freedom why I pick myself from up off the ground, look up to the sky, and take another step up the mountain of life.

WARNING!!WARNING!!..(the post under this is not meant to judge anyone at all but meant to encourage, if I judge anyone in this post it is myself.)

2006-06-29T19:31:00.000-04:00

Please, if you are going to read the post "Man of Faith" do not be led to believe I am judging harshly in any way. I am simply ranting particular feelings. I believe the undertone of the post is to encourage myself and hopefully encourage the reader. I will however take your comments to the following. I encourage thought and debate :)

Man Of Faith

2006-06-28T19:25:00.000-04:00

My life is not perfect. I struggle in every possible way and often think that I'll never really be able to change. My mind wonders to the depths of despair and I never fail to find myself wishing for better times. I seem to want to find this super equation that helps me understand my purpose in this world. Truth is, I wallow in my own punishment. It would be so easy to turn into a person who blames society or "the man" or others who just don't have it figured out. To turn my angst to politicians and to the world, to muster up some kind of cause to protest against. Even blame the church and religion for being hypocrites and liars. But the truth is, I have been given life. I have been created to love. I am fearfully and wonderfully made by the Creator of all beings who sits on a throne and marvels in the lives of His creation and people. "Peace be still" He says to the storm clouds of my soul "I have chosen you". I have but one request of my God. That His will be accomplished in my life that I might one day stand before Him in everlasting eternity. You see, if you don't believe in God, or you do but not "The One True God" there is a longing that is never filled in our souls. We have but one chance to sit at the table of the Lord. And the only way to accomplish this it to believe. Believe that in all of this chaos and random times of joy that we are in the process of being made whole. Are you whole? Or is something missing? Can you honestly say you are complete? There comes a day in surrender when you have exhausted all of your options and you look up through a lightning filled blood red sky and say "You are my portion my God my Savior, no matter what, I will follow. Though You slay me, I will trust You Lord" The answer is found in the One who has been brutally slain. Jesus is as real as it gets folks and trust me I have searched for other means and have followed other desires. Jesus is the only One who has not betrayed me or left me in any way. But it has been I who has gone astray. I understand there are religious pretenders out there who kill the word Christianity with their money grubbing and rules of salvation and their betrayal of love to those hurting, and to them I pray swift reconciliation. But also believe this. There are those out there who have really lived the life, and stood their ground for the sake of a very real God. What drives such men and women to endure every pain in life.......I believe the answer is faith. Faith in a King, a Friend and a Lover. Would you die for what you believe in? Would you endure ridicule and humiliation and face the mockery of your friends and family for believing in an ever criticized religion. I propose this. Christianity is not a religion, it is life. It will cost you everything to walk out the will of God for your life. It is the most painful and the most rewarding. You know what is really important in your life when you can say you are willing to die for it. Be encouraged and have faith. For this life is but a vapor. Let the beauty and mystery of Jesus capture your every waking breath....and live life.

A New Leaf

2006-06-25T17:23:00.001-04:00

Well I said that I would try to post every Friday and it has now been over a month since I last posted. Speaking of, I saw a great T-Shirt yesterday that a friend was wearing. It was all black and on the front in red letters it said "Procrastinators Unite Tomorrow". I was like "Dude that shirt rocks". As you can see I identified with it. Than I got to thinking, "Man I am so that way in my spiritual life and life in general that I have suffered consequences in both." In my spiritual walk I have said things like, "I need to read the word more or I need more time with the Lord, I need to spend more time with my family discussing Godly things" in the natural I have been known to put bills off, and avoid situations that need attention, and say "I need to write more". Yesterday I noticed finally and harshly, I am a procrastinator. And for once it didn't feel like a joke, it felt real. Not that I want to read the word and pray more because of performance based relation with God, but because I know I will benefit from it in my decision making for my future and for the lives of my kids. In essence I need to stop talking about how I am a Christian and in love with God and actually BE a Christian and LOVE God. I and my generation hurts because of this horrible trait, and we seem to just wait for everything to fix itself. I don't know about you but I want my yes to be yes. Ahem....next Friday

The Fleeting Dream

2006-05-19T13:54:00.000-04:00

So I had a dream last night where I was talking to this girl from another state and I was at some kind of flea market type thing. Anyway she found out my name and thanked me for writing a song that was dear to her. I thanked her and asked her which song. She began to sing it and at first I didn't recognize the song. Then she began to sing the verses and I began to cry. "I forgot about that song" I told her, "I gotta start singing it again". The reason I was crying was that a song meant so much to someone when I (the writer) had forgotten about it. Right then I made it a point to remember the melody and the words as she was singing it. Then I woke up and...........well you guessed it. Immediately I forgot the words and melody. Maybe the words and melody count or maybe it was a metaphor, regardless the song in my dream sounded so cool (melody and all). I do remember when the girl started singing it, I flashed back (in the dream mind you) to playing at New Life Community Church (my old church) where I was playing the song. So it was in the flashback where I heard the song with a full band. Well, I guess I need to write some more. Bye for now. Oh yeah, I will now try to post every Friday so check back next week.

K.C. Trip Day 3

2006-04-28T23:52:00.000-04:00

Today has been revelation after revelation. It is amazing that when we get into a place of beholding God that he reminds us that He is with us and for us. Many prophetic words were spoken over my life today reminding me that God counts me worthy. You see my struggle is that I see God as wanting to reprimand me for my short-coming. When again it places the focus upon myself instead of Christ. The idea is beholding Jesus and in doing that we become what we behold. Well a heavy duty word was spoken over me this afternoon about "Him wanting to meet with me tonight" or the Lord saying "I will meet with you tonight". So I'm gonna go and wait!!!

K.C. Trip Day 2

2006-04-28T00:05:00.000-04:00

Another great day and just a little problem with the laptop but nothing huge. I spent most of the day in the prayer room and was able to see my wife on the webcam at home. some technology is good I guess. Today I read a book called "Overcoming the Religious Spirit" by Rick Joyner. Needless to say it completly changed my life. My outlook on myself and just the process God has everyone in has changed. I realize that I need to take my eyes off of my own sin and focus them where they need to be, which is on Jesus of course. Sounds pretty simple right. Well thats the point. God has made a simple way for us to love and to be loved by Him. But our nature and the enemy wants to complicate that so we can be sucked into a bunch of religious garbage so our focus becomes that on ourselves instead of the blood of Jesus which makes us holy and acceptable in the first place. It is a revelation and a life changing experience for me to realize that. Anyway I could go on for awhile but I would rather at this time stay before God for the rest of the night, to make sure it soaks in. Oh yeah, I took a spiritual gifts test. Now most of these are wierd and by no means does it suggest my calling in life (the test even states that). I tried to answer as honest as possible and the results said that my gifting is in prophecy first and then prayer. Interesting to say the least. Well more tomorrow.

K.C. Trip Day 1

2006-04-27T02:15:00.000-04:00

Well after spending most of the night trying to get my internet working, I finally got it. My computer (laptop) is acting way up. I should just slap it and put it in it's place. As you can tell it has frustrated me tonight and in the past. Anyway, on a positive note. We made it just fine. Kris and I were on our way to the van which was supposed to leave at 8:00am. when my RV suddenly ran out of gas. The gas gauge doesn't work so I guess you could say that I miscalculated. We walked to the gas station and got a gallon of gas and a gas can. To make a long story short I continued to flood the engine resulting in a major inconvienence. Josh gracefully came to our rescue. We tried jumping the RV battery cause I killed it trying to start it to often as a result of my impatience with the whole scenario. Needless to say that my RV is now locked up and sitting in the Jimtown school parking lot since they were generous enough to let me park it there. I hope it will start when I get back. It took about 10-11 hours to get here and I am now sitting in the pleasant atmosphere of the K.C. house of prayer. The 12-2am slot has been very good thus far. Kinda mellow in the room but the worship team is kickin. I hope to spend the most of my hours here in the prayer room for the next 3 days. I do have a couple of meetings with the Forerunner Music people but I hope they will be quick and to the point as I would bet they would want the same thing. I just want to be with God and rekindle that giddyness. To have joy again and dare to walk totally and completly in His ways. I do have weak legs and I tend to fall alot. It's starting to hurt. Intimacy. Theres a word, or how bout this one, love. Geez, wrap your head around those. Or better yet, forgivness. I need to start forgiving myself so I can move on. Once I forgive myself I think I'll bee able to start loving others. Well we'll see what day 2 holds. I love and miss you Erin Jayne. I wish I could see that when I'm with you more often than when I'm without.

What The?

2006-04-16T20:40:00.000-04:00

Ok, so you gotta check out this video of a 12 yr old ripping a crazy drum solo. Make sure you watch it till the end. I know you'll be amazed at the talent this kid has.

IHOP-KC BUSTIN' OUT

2006-04-12T15:38:00.000-04:00

Well we have started recieving the Ihop-KC web feed at our home and it has been really awesome. The worship has been really good and you can just sense the level of annointing and blessing that God has bestowed on this house of prayer. They are on a different level since a couple of years ago. The flow is so natural and not pre-determined. I especially enjoy Misty's nights as well as Clay Edwards, Justin Rizzo and Shawna Forrey. These worship leaders are exceptionally well and their teams are tremendous. If you get achnce check em out. For the prayer room schedule and webcast go here
We have been recieving the free web cast under the Global Bridegroom Fast link. It says that it is available free the first Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of every month. For some reason the link has worked since my wife and I started using it last week. Maybe it's God knowing how much that we need to be refreshed. There is something about KC and their(Gods)house of prayer. I think it might be that they are walking in their specific calling. Nothing more, nothing less. The ministry is in the will of the Father. Their not trying to build something. They are just being obidient to God, not man. Anyway, God is a good father.

Random Post

2006-03-19T18:45:00.001-05:00

Well I wanted to update and thought "I'll show some pictures" Here are a few random pics to share and soon I will write a novel on this thing. I haven't quite been able to put my thoughts into words and I suppose not writing them down is kinda my way of avoiding them. But I know and realize the sooner I face my thoughts the sooner I can move on. God is so patient with me. And I so lack faith in Him. Well, here are some pics.

Someones Wishes at the Skatepark

Madisen as a Librarian

Mom & Maddy

I'm In Love

2006-03-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

Recently I aquired a "Boss AD 8 acoustic guitar processor". Now if your a non musician or non guitar player you may not understand what the big deal is, let me explain. The ad 8 allows my "Morgan Monroe Serenade" electric acoustic (pictured-retail $599)sound like a $2000 Martin through a process of COSM modeling (Composite Object Sound Modeling). For guys like me (rich in spirit, poor in finance) this is a dream come true. You see I mostly play electric acoustic and rarely ever play unplugged. So this is perfect for my situation. I love the playability of my guitar and it sounds good plugged straight into a P.A. I've had no complaints. But now the sound is amazing. I gotta give it up for Boss and this pedal. The pedal also offers features like reverb, mic modeling position and a built in tuner with a mute function. Also on the pedalboard is a Boss Chorus CE-5 and an RC20 Looper with a Rolls headphone amp and an Art tube preamp direct box. Now I am set. The last feture I could ever desire is a Boss Digital Delay (maybe way later). Oh yeah, here are the models of acoustics achieved through the Boss.

Martin D-28 mic'd by a Nuemann U87, Martin 000-28 mic'd by a Nuemann U67, Gibson J-45 mic'd by a Nuemann U67, Gibson B-25 mic'd by a Nuemann U87, Guild D-40 mic'd by a AKG C12 and a Jose' Ramirez mic'd by a AKG C12

My Guitar

My New Toy

Suffering

2006-02-17T18:16:00.000-05:00

I am now the proud owner of this painting. My friend Ryan painted it a long time ago and is now moving out of town. He said I can have this painting. It now hangs in my living room above my couch. I love it's representation of the cross. It shows that Jesus' sacrifice was no walk in the park and that he truly endured pain and suffering. I also dig the way it shows darkness in the true separation of God that occured when Jesus died. It truly portrays the question "Why have You forsaken Me". A question I'm sure Jesus never lokked forward to asking. Or maybe He did.

Original Painting By Ryan Singleton

The Show Was Great

2006-02-08T00:55:00.000-05:00

Well tonight I saw Chris Tomlin and Matt Redman at the Morris. It was really good. Chris did what seemed to be the greatest hits collection and Matt did some of his popular songs. The songs done from what I can remember were, in no order:

Chris: Holy is the Lord, Indescribable, We Fall Down, Famous One, How Great Is Our God, Enough, and some others

Matt: Blessed Be Your Name, Once Again, The Heart Of Worship, a new song I had not heard and a couple more.

All in all it was a great night and the media presentation was off the hinges. It really was presented as an art form. Louie Giglio had a great message too. I was glad to see everyone that I hadn't seen in awhile. Good friends, time with my Dad and great worship. What a night.

Apollogy 4 Tha Wurst Speling N Thu Wurld

2006-01-30T18:17:00.000-05:00

So I was reading my last post and noticed that I could have been thought of as a drunk the way I mispelled everything. "So use spell check" you might say. Well, I just forget about it and by the time I post, I just don't wanna go back. So I apoligize if you really have to try to understand sometimes what I'm trying to say.

Is There Some Kind Of Light I'm Missing

2006-01-21T03:24:00.000-05:00

Weel I suppose now that I will write about the deslolation that has infultrated my mind and spirit. Through all that has happened in 4 months ie. surgery, Emma born, vascetomy, no job within sight (jobs come here and there but not in longevity). Needless to say I have had alternate things try to comsume my life. The hide and seek game is over for now. I tired of looking. In seeing this I understand that a pursuit is nescesary. I feel that somehow I have lost the key to my fathers heart. I used to feel like I could unlock it and at any time. And in the times when I couldn't. It was my "wilderness". See what I have noticed is the "The Wilderness" periods are far and few in between, when the only anwser is to physically lean upon the cross of Jesus. Other times we are lost in "The Woods" if you will and we happen to run acrossed revelation here and there. You see the woods are not desolate. You have your friends, family, Spouse, disteraction, a so called prophetic word and even a plan, also a whole lotta God told mees. The wilderness seems to be a desolate place to make your abode. It's uncomfortable, a place without advice, a place of fear of the unknown. Barren of friends and friends ideas. Absolutly no finances. You are left with you and what you think that the voice of God sounds like. You start to question "Do I know what His voice sounds like, or is it my voice" Does God always tell you good things? Does God think everything is peachy. You ask things like "Am I a Christian in compared to what I think a good Christian would look like" "Then why can't I love with purity" "Why can I not kill my motive" The only thing left to do is four things:

Pray
Be Silent
Listen
Write

In that order.
If anyone knows of a job that could suit me, please let me know, I need it:)

The Big 30

2006-01-20T01:54:00.000-05:00

Live Worship Show

2006-01-20T01:50:00.000-05:00

Crazy

2006-01-13T21:14:00.000-05:00

Things have been nuts around the homestead with the new addition and school starting back up again. We need to find a rhythm so keep us in prayer please. I will post more later but for now, much love **pat..pat...peace**

A New Ward To Love

2005-12-20T19:46:00.001-05:00

Well she's here 7lbs 12.5 oz. 21 in long. Emma Jean Ward is her name and she will be the last of Mine and Erins dynasty. She is totally beautiful and very quiet so far. We love her and we hope ya'll will to. And if not, Hey, it's your loss, hahahaha.

Emma Jean Ward

Mamma And Emma

Pappa And Emma

Ethan And Emma

Raygen And Emma

Madisen And Emma... She's Thrilled!!

Emma Jean

Emma, Very Peaceful In Daddy's Lap

How Do You Lay Out Your Clothes

2005-12-14T22:22:00.000-05:00

Well I haven't posted in quite sometime. I guess I have been waiting for something more meaningful to hit me and when it does, I am to lazy to type it out. As a father though, you run acrossed little nuggets and milestones that your children cross. Such as, my five year old daughter Raygen. She had an Idea on what she would do after we said "Raygen, you need to "lay out" your clothes for tommorow just in case Mommy has the baby." This is what she came up with. Aren't kids great.

Raygens Idea Of Laying Out Clothes

Frodo, Do You Remember The Shire, It'll Be Spring Soon

2005-11-30T17:04:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning...well afternoon, and noticed there was something quite middle earth about me. When I looked in the mirror I felt I was coming straight out of the shire. In my quest to grow my hair longer I have fallen into a trap of serious hobbit head. Take a look for yourselves :)

Frodo's Haircut

Funny Jokes

2005-11-18T00:54:00.000-05:00

Q: How many guitarists does it take to change a light bulb?
A: Twenty. One to change the bulb and nineteen to say, "Not bad, but I could've done better".
Q: How many bluegrass musicians does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Two. One to screw it in, and one to complain that it's electrified.
Q: How many bass players does it take to change a light bulb?
A: Only one - but the guitarist has to show him first.
Q: How many bass players does it take to change a light bulb?
A: None. The piano player can do that with his left hand.
Q: What did the drummer get on his I.Q. test?
A: Drool.

It Was Fun To Do FonDue...Hardy Har Har

2005-11-16T22:19:00.000-05:00

Tonight Erin and I had a Fondue dinner with our friends Kris and Jean along with Bruce and Linda. It was interesting and something new for dinner. Erin and I have noticed that our dinners are much to repetitive and it is time to try new things (within reason ie. sushi, cow tongue, etc.) The menue looked like this.

Appetizer:
Dank Stinky Fondue Cheese with Very excellent Bread

Dinner:
Brocolli, Zuccini, Potatoes, Mushrooms, Onions, Chicken, Beef Tips and Shrimp all dipped (or not) in a luscious Beer Batter and fried in Peanut Oil. Then you would have your choice of delectable dipping sauces like Ranch, Honey Mustard, Cocktail, Horseradish, Dill, and Barbeque.

Dessert:
Strawberries, Cherries, Bannanas, Marshmellows and Pound Cake dipped in hot melted Chocalate.

It was quite the feast. We will probably do it once a year because the preparation is insane. Anyway I am glad for friends and family to share time with. Theres nothing quite like good humor, stories, food and good music to make your day seem better.

Living Like Jesus

2005-11-07T21:46:00.000-05:00

My quest to live like Jesus often boggles me. I want to live out what I so desperatley know to be true, but in my wickedness and confusion I seem to say and do the exact opposite. I know that I am at the mercy of Gods love and am only accountable to the revelation in which I've received. So why is it so hard to love others how we want to be loved. Unconditional is defined as:
Without conditions or limitations; absolute: demanded unconditional surrender.Or: not contingent; not determined or influenced by someone or something else.

Rich Mullins says this about Gods love

"If you've ever known the love of God, you know it's nothing but reckless and it's nothing but raging. Sometimes it hurts to be loved, and if it doesn't hurt it's probably not love, may be infatuation. I think a lot of American people are infatuated with God, but we don't really love Him, and they don't really let Him love them. Being loved by God is one of the most painful things in the world, it's also the only thing that can bring us salvation and it's like everything else that is really wonderful, there's a little bit of pain in it, little bit of hurt."

Suffering? Ahh O.k. makes sense now right.....for you maybe....not me. You see, I long to join in the suffering of my great King. I do, because to join in this type of suffering means I get to experience life like Jesus, and in return I grow closer to loving like Him. Which is by far the one thing I need revelation of. Not only do I want to love like Him, I want to live like Him. Hang out with whom He hung with and also fight against what He fought against. This is by far my most relenting quest to date. It just might consume me. Jesus is the vision. Jesus is my cure.

Warning, This Quote Might Make You Green

2005-10-31T21:04:00.000-05:00

Words Of Wisdom

My Space? Only Cause I Can Post Music

2005-10-31T16:14:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. I recently started a "My Space" account so I can post music from my first CD. I will also post new music as it comes. It's a pretty cool site in that aspect, but when it comes to blogging, I gotta give it up to blogger. I will be deciding soon on whether or not to get my own actual site. The only thing that is stopping me thus far is learning html and how to actually build one. I want a site that will include a blog as well as songs and pics. I would like to post pics without actually having to write about then. Plus have a news page for upcoming shows and worship times. It would also be cool to have a forum for bible study and stuff. Anyway gotta run. Oh yeah check out the my space page

Multimedia Mullett / Scored It

2005-10-30T01:21:00.000-05:00

Well my google search led me to find a mullet site. It's kind of ripping my idea to take pictures of random peoples mulletts and create a fun coffee table book for all to enjoy the fashion style of the mullett. I will begin my quest next week. I'f you would like to go with me then let me know. I go hunting in the begining of next week. Hopefully I will have taken at least 20 different types of mulletts. Wish me luck

HipShaw Thoughts / Do You Really Know Me

2005-10-29T00:57:00.000-05:00

Hipshaw thoughts are thoughts that kind of come off the cuff. Tonight will be filled with the most random and dispersed thoughts I've had over a month. They are not in order of importance.

1. I laugh at Owen Wilsons Jokes.
2. Quato is the prophet in the movie Total Recall.
3. I Think I made up the word hipshaw.
4. Earier I was baffeled by my ability to blatently rely on grace.
5. I don't want to be the christian I hate.
6. Somtimes I like to watch horror movies. I don't know why
7. The enemy saying, you don't have a voice at voice.
8. I remember the show "caroline in the city" and I used to watch it every night.
9. I watch Conan Obrien.
10. My house needs more plants.
11. chodepeas.
12. I so need gas.
13. shrimp scampi.
14. This is the best house I've ever lived in.
15. I'm the worlds greatest sinner.
16. I need prayer.
17. I wish I had a Harley.
18. I like the Walflowers and Dinosaur Jr.
19. One More HipShaw
20. Luk 5:20 Impressed by their bold belief, he said, "Friend, I forgive your sins."

Warning Signs Of A Religious Spirit

2005-10-25T22:38:00.000-05:00

Recently I stumbled upon something Rick Joyner had wrote that was entitled "Warning Signs Of A Religious Spirit". It was very interesting and insightful. Not only did I recognize the signs in myself. It also led me to think about what I am involved in. You see, my desire is to be as close to God as I can. I realize I am further away than what I want to be. I also am aware that I can't compare my walk to anyone elses. It is unbenificial for me to look at someone elses life and make that the standard of my spiritual journey. I need to do what God wants me to. In reading this I was surprised at my own tendencies of judgement. But I also believe that there is no one who has never thought these thoughts....NO ONE. It is an awakening. Let God deal with the wicked and unjust.

Ecc 3:14-17 I've also concluded that whatever God does, that's the way it's going to be, always. No addition, no subtraction. God's done it and that's it. That's so we'll quit asking questions and simply worship in holy fear. Whatever was, is. Whatever will be, is. That's how it always is with God. I took another good look at what's going on: The very place of judgment--corrupt! The place of righteousness--corrupt! I said to myself, "God will judge righteous and wicked." There's a right time for every thing, every deed--and there's no getting around it. (The Message of course)

Now I know that most of everything that Rick Joyner says is credible. And I do know he is right on most of the time. But when you read this ask God to reveal it in your own heart and separate the wheat from the chaff. Ask God to reveal to you what is truth, not Rick Joyner. Remember God sees you the same. A lovable son or daughter.

Warning Signs Of A Religious Spirit:

1. Tend to see your primary mission as tearing down what you think is wrong.
2. The inability to take a rebuke, especially from those you judge less-spiritual.
3. A philosophy that will not listen to other people, only to God.
4. Overwhelming guilt that you can never measure up to God's standard.
5. The tendency to see more of what is wrong with people and other churches, than what is right with them.
6. The belief that you have been appointed to "fix" everyone else.
7. A leadership style that is bossy, overbearing, and intolerant of the failures of others.
8. A sense that you are closer to God than other people or that your life/ministry is more pleasing to God than other's.
9. The belief that you are on the "cutting edge" of what God is doing.
10. A mechanical prayer life.
11. Constantly doing things so that people will notice.
12. The tendency to be suspicious of or oppose new movements in other churches.
13. The inability to join or endorse anything you deem is not "perfect".
14. The belief that you discover deep new meanings in Scripture that nobody else has seen before.
15, If while reading these warning signs, you were thinking of how they apply to someone else, you may have a serious problem with religious spirit.

Ouch right, if this is what the religious spirit does, I'd say we all need to evaluate our conversations with God and others. Remember this though and it might help. You are responsible with what God has given you. No more, no less. What God has given you is what's in His word. Everything is to be tested by scripture and prayed after for understanding. I was once told by a leader that I shouldn't look so grumpy on Sunday because I lead worship. I said "I'm not going to lie about my life cause it's Sunday". He responded with "Well if your not going to be happy then maybe you shouldn't lead" Be transparent? Yeah right!

God Loves Bikers

2005-10-23T16:04:00.000-05:00

Today I helped a friend lead worship at a church meeting called "Bikers at the Crossing" which was a group of Harley Bikers that meet twice a month at a coffeehouse (The Crossing)to worship and hear a message. The speaker was a guy named Patrick whom I met in jail when I spent time in there serving an unkown warrant for a speeding ticket and driving without a license in 1996 or something. Anyway, Patrick was in the jail with me and was then known by the jailees as "preacher man". It was good to hear Patrick speak and his message was good too. He talked about being faithful to the end and the church of Philadelphia in Rev. 3. Good stuff. It was good to go to another church and be a part of what God is doing in our region and in the lives of others. Glenn Sharp was there to which was surprising to see Glenn in a church full of bikers. Isn't God great like that :)

Perspective

2005-10-22T09:35:00.000-05:00

A couple days ago I fell asleep siting up on my couch. Needless to say that I woke up with the worst kink in my neck and shoulder that I've ever felt. I hope it will go away soon. I have been writing songs lately and have learned to embrace the frustrations of writing worship music. I mean anyone can write a congragational worship song. I'm talking about a song that grips the listener. I have learned that my worship in this season is more reverent than rejoicing. I would like to find the joy in worship, so I can actually say "there's no other place I'd rather be" because when it comes down to it, it's not true. So I don't want to write a song of false statements just because they sound good to the church. What I've found is that preparation through prayer is the way to go. Because it sets my spirit in the right place to convey my true emotion towards God. So at the time when I write, my statement is true "there's no other place I'd rather be". I did however through this process write a new song called "I believe" which is a song about choosing faith instead of circumstance. It says something along the lines of "even when I can't see, when Your right in front of me, I believe". Faith is simply believing Jesus is who He says He is, regardless of evidence. Choosing to worship regardless of what we are going through or where we are. Saying "I believe You are the Christ"

Feels Like Home

2005-10-20T13:37:00.000-05:00

Well I said I would post a pic of the home studio so here it is. We'll see how long it will stay clean. Maybe once I get on it, I can post some sample stuff through the telephone from audioblog. It may sound rough but it might be fun.

The Corner Of My Bedroom

Caution, Home Recording In Process

2005-10-19T22:44:00.001-05:00

Well I decided to start recording again. Right now I am concentrating on writing new songs and recording them as I go. The result will hopefully conclude in a positive experience, digging deeper into the beauty and majesty of Jesus. I am, at the moment, reconfiguring my laptop into the home internet machine and my home computer into the recording machine. Lots of moving programs around, getting rid of useless stuff, blah, blah, blah. Later, I will take a pic of my new home operation so you can see it in all it's glory (yeah right). I am eager to get started. Eventually I will colaberate with other musicians in order to complete the cd. This time I want to do it right as far as packaging and distribution. As far as the live cd goes. I want to package it right one day. It was only 2 years since the recording of that cd (10.31.03) but it feels like decades. I've gotten such a good response from it that I want to eventually redesign the whole thing (lyrics on the insert...uh...an actual insert). Josh Petrillo gave it the album of the year in 2004. Anyway, I will mostly be focused on making this cd a worship cd, since my heart has been engulfed in worship for the past 2 years. I relized something while cleaning my daughters room today. It seemed the more I dug in, the messier it got. When I said that statement to myself I paused. Wow, "the deeper I go, the messier it gets" I thought. Worship is not about being proper or singing the right song or wearing the right clothes (not in conjuntion with the levites in old testament). But it's a filthy, knock down, zealous, fight. And the deeper we go, the messier it gets. You see, the flesh wants to do everything it can to kill our God given desire to worship Him. So in the midst of it, all this junk comes up, emotional and physical. But here is a thought to ponder. When it gets real messy, I mean, REAL messy, think of this. It's got to be tainted before it's purified. Yes my friends we are all on a journey (not the band) to purification. Chances are we will be, to the last breath. So when it gets dirty..........rest easy

Columbus (John Ruebens Home Town)

2005-10-17T12:56:00.000-05:00

Well I finally got around to posting some of the pictures from my Columbus weekend. It was really fun and exciting. I always love working with John and enjoy playing his music. A new Cd is in the works and hopefully God will orchestrate me being able to collaberate with John once again. I met a lot of nice people in Columbus and once again I saw God doing things outside of Elkhart which is always a fresh reminder on how I need to destroy that mindset of the "christian bubble". Anyway, when critisized about selling beer in a christian establishment Franky simply replied "Some people enjoy having a beer when they eat a burrito". Does anyone at all believe that alcolhol does not make you an alcolholic. The reason you drink does.

Johns New CD "Desert Days" And His T-Shirt. The Lower Line Says "Folk For The Soul"

This Is The Vineyard Church We Played At

This Was Our Stage Setup At The Vineyard. I Was On The Left

John Talkin To Some Folks

John's Flyer

The Store Front Of Frankie's. Notice The CBN Sign. "Christian Buisness Network" Lol

Inside Frankie's (That's Franky On The Left)

The House We Stayed At. It Was Emaculate

Musician 4 Hire

2005-10-08T14:28:00.000-05:00

Well right now I'm in Easton Ohio (half our from Columbus) at a Panera Bread with my friend John Lee who is playing tonight in Columbus at Franky's Coffeehouse. We are discussing tour dates and promotion. Right now I am playing various instruments with John for his live shows. I played alot of the instruments and helped with arrangments on Johns CD "Desert Days" so it seemed natural I play the live stuff to. John is lining up dates to play and if all goes well I'll be busy with that often, doing gigs in Bloomington, Indy and Chicago. Basically a four hour radius. I have a great time doing this because it is a chance to do what I love doing, glorifying God through music. John's songs are more reflective and offer the soulution of Christ not as the answer to struggle but the rock in the midst of struggle. Well got to go now, on my way to Grove City. I'll post full pictures of the trip later.

John Lee's Website

You Gotta Friend In Me

2005-09-24T01:21:00.000-05:00

So right now I am sort of doing freelance for work. Working at the restaurant here and for my friend Conan there. I sure would like to find something steady though. As usual both of my cars are going kaput at the same time. We finally got the minivan running solid again (waterpump)and now my station wagon (which I just paid off) is leaking oil from the oilpan, badly (80$ job). Luckily I have a few friends that know cars and are willing to help me. I don't know where I would be without my friends. You know the people who are for you and not against you, the ones you can get way past small talk in a matter of seconds. The ones who watch you fall and are there to help you up even when you didn't heed the warning. And last but not least, the ones who still call you when you haven't "been around" regardless of how busy they are. Wow, kinda sounds like Jesus doesn't it. I want to thank my friends for being like Jesus;)

8th Wonder Of The World

2005-09-12T11:44:00.000-05:00

My Mom is in town for the week so we decided to invite my Uncle Brian over with his family and order pizza. We ordered Brunos and it took like two hours for it to get here. When it finally got here we understood why it took so long. This pizza was the biggest I've ever seen. Needless to say we didn't come close to eating it all. We had a blast that night and we were all full. Thanks Brian for contributing to the fullest stomach I've had in months :)

Mom and my Uncle Brian

Rich Inspires Me

2005-09-07T13:03:00.000-05:00

I have always been a fan of Rich Mullins ever since I got saved. His lyrics are something I can relate too, not to mention hearing the passion in his voice when he sings. I was blessed enough to get his dvd at the library last week. The dvd includes a 15 to 16 song set live at Studio B. and some excerpts from a 2 day seminar held at Lesea. Through watching this dvd you could tell Rich was a man very fed up with the christian culture and how we use, what I'll call, christian entertainment as one of our main sources of worship. So when we go to these concerts and we expect that the singer or songwriter should lead us into worship, we are really the ones who suffer. There is such a thing as christian entertainment, and guess what, it's not a bad thing. If we all had our priorities straight we wouldn't have to worry about other peoples. God will deal with us and he will set our priorities straight. See we (I believe) as christians (including myself) have this view of what a good christian should look like. So we spend our whole lives trying to live up to that view instead of letting God change us. I love music. Sometimes I don't want to be serious. God knows this about me and I don't think He minds. He wants me to have fun and be happy and enjoy the life and family He's given me. But God also knows I love to worship and He loves to be worshiped. I guess the point I'm trying to make is that, you can worship anywhere. But don't expect others to when you think they should. Worship is between you and Him. It's one of those things that should be done in secret as well as corporate. If your not worshiping in secret, and your waiting for that corporate meeting to worship. You might want to rethink your gameplan.

People Get Ready

2005-09-03T00:57:00.000-05:00

I thought this was very interesting concerning the devastation and location of this hurricane. Intrigued by the lawlessness of the people in New Orleans and reading about what they're going through (of course I have know idea) I was wondering what the meaning of Katrina meant and this is what I found.

Katrina is derived from Katherine
Gender: Feminine
Usage: English
Pronounced: KATH-u-rin, KATH-rin
From the Greek name Αικατερινη (Aikaterine). The etymology is debated: it could derive from the earlier Greek name ‘Εκατερινη (Hekaterine), which came from ‘εκατερος (hekateros) "each of the two"; it could derive from the name of the goddess HECATE; it could be related to Greek αικια (aikia) "torture"; or it could be from a Coptic name meaning "my consecration of your name". The Romans associated it with Greek καθαρος (katharos) "pure" and changed their spelling from Katerina to Katharina to reflect this. The name belonged to a 4th-century saint and martyr from Alexandria who was tortured on the famous Catherine wheel. Another saint by this name was Catherine of Siena, a 14th-century mystic. This name was also borne by two empresses of Russia, including Catherine the Great, and by three of Henry VIII's wives.

In short, what this this name is saying is:

1. It is one of two
2. Torture
3. My consecration of Your name
4. Purity

Breaking it down (and I know this might be a little to out there for people). I should say, Looking through spritual lenses, this could be one of two circumstances that will bring suffering to this nation that God will use to bring consecration to the name of His Son (This could be one of the latter). Through this it will bring purity and humility to those who will embrace it. When I think about this, of course I am grieved that we allow and embrace such disgrace to the Kingdom of God ie. abortion, voodoo, porn (and I know we all sin, I am the biggest of all) but I am also grieved for the lives it will cost. I do know and belive however it is because of the grace of God that He doesn't just call it over yet. He is sounding the trumpets. It's not about what we do, I cannot stress this enough. It's not about how dedicated we are to ministry, no matter how great it seems. It's not even about The House of Prayer, which I belive so much in. What I do know is that when we get to heaven God will not ask us questions like "how many hours were you in my house" He will however let us know whether or not He knew us (Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity). See we can live our whole lives doing, and miss the whole point of just being. Being what you say? Being the son, daughter, wife or husband God created us to be. So whats the answer? What do I need to do you might say. Well, I don't have the answer, but I know who does and if you read all this, you do to. Let's just pray that this isn't just another thing that will fade away like 9/11 a few years ago. Jesus remembers 9/11, all of the abortions, and all of the unrepented sin in America. And He will remember the modern day Sodom and Gamorahs of America. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate America but as a follower of Christ, I am called to love the world, not be of it. "Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done". Believing that statement also means believing in this one, "Whatever it takes." Whatever it takes to draw us closer to Him. Here is one of the reasons God has me alive.

Madisen, No She Doesn't Wear Glasses