BlakeandJaime

ORB loves Texas A&M Commerce

2010-02-01T10:13:00.001-08:00

Oak Ridge Boys- Seven Nation Army (2009)

2009-03-10T15:14:00.001-07:00

The newest ORB song

The Blackwwod Brothers

2009-03-03T13:27:00.001-08:00

Great old video

Personal Finance

2008-11-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

Everyday during 4th period between 11:55 - 12:40 I get to teach the class that has become my most enjoyable. This year Coach Wade put a new elective in called Personal Finance and asked if I would teach it. I accepted and I am glad I did. We use Dave Ramsey curriculum and it is a blast to teach. I love the group of students in this class. They are all very smart and interested in the subject matter. We have learned things from staying out of debt, saving money for college and retirement, and doing a budget. I hope this class works out for this group in the long run.

Maddie in Chapel

2008-10-09T17:52:00.001-07:00

DC Homecoming 2008

2008-09-28T18:48:00.001-07:00

This past Friday night was Homecoming at Dallas Christian. I hesitated on whether or not to take the girls because I would absolutely not be able to watch the game if they came. We got there right at kickoff and my prediction came true. Maddie was pretty easy, but Macie didn't want to stay still. I walked her around a little bit, but finally in the 2nd quarter she relaxed a little bit with Jaime. We stayed around and saw Laci Butler get crowned Homecoming Queen (yeah!) and then left. It took us awhile to leave because of everyone who wanted to see the girls. I think it took the entire 3rd quarter to leave Charger Stadium. By the way, the Chargers defeated TCCH 53-28. TCCH was a good team.

Long Run #3

2008-09-21T12:01:00.001-07:00

Last 7.5 miles that I ran on Friday night.

It took 1 hour 22 minutes.

I know I am slow.

Joe Biden Tells Chuck Graham to Stand Up

2008-09-13T13:28:00.001-07:00

This is Hilarious! Sounds like something I would say.

Ponder this?

2008-09-07T14:15:00.001-07:00

Why is it that abortion is legal, but if someone murders a woman and her fetus it is a double homicide?

Double standard?

Sinus Infection

2008-09-03T19:58:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't posted in awhile, and I have a good reason. Starting a week ago I started feeling my allergies coming on. I thought I was taking the necessary medicines to combat this, but it wasn't enough. I even suffered an extended weekend with Jaime's family not feeling that great. It all came to a head Tuesday morning as I felt like my head was about to explode. I went to practice in the morning and tried to teach, but knew I wasn't in condition to make it through the day. I went to the doctor where he told me I had a severe sinus infection. I basically laid in bed the rest of the day and night and went back to school the next day. Although I wasn't near 100% I felt so much better than yesterday.

One of the things this hurts is my running. I want to feel 100% before I start running again, but the question is.....where on my chart to I go to? Do I continue like I have been running all along, or do I take it slowly?

I promise I will write more in the future. Maddie has her first soccer game on Saturday!

Long Run #2

2008-08-24T14:35:00.001-07:00

This morning before church I ran my 5 miler in 51:31. This time is good since my 4 miles last week went 43:01.

I am kinda tired.

The Long Runs

2008-08-16T20:03:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the quality of the picture.

I have 28 weeks till my marathon. My schedule is to run for 3 miles on Tuesday and Thursday and then sometime during the weekend to run a "long" run. I have been running 3 miles every other day since late June (3 weeks off for vacation and medical procedure), but today was the first 4 miler.

God has blessed me with great weather tonight. I finished the 4 miles in 43:01. I know it is slow, but I did it and feel pretty good right now. Next weekend is the 5 miler.

Issue #2: Abortion

2008-08-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

Is this size better?

Issue #2 I will take on is the issue of abortion.

Obama believes:

Obama is very pro-choice. He believes in the fundamental right to choose. Believes it shows the freedoms and equality of women. He is a strong supporter of Roe v Wade. In the Illinois Senate, he vetoed a bill to ban late term abortions because it did not contain a clause to protect the life of the mother.

McCain believes:

McCain is very pro-life. He says abortions should be legal in case of rape, incest, and when the life of the mother is in danger. He wants the Roe v Wade decision to be overturned and has said we would put judges in the Supreme Court to help overturn this. McCain has said he will do everything in his power to stop partial birth abortions. He voted to prohibit public funding that promotes abortions. Voted NO to a $100 million package that would educate teens about pregnancies and contraceptives.

I believe:

This is very easy for me. I am very pro-life. Ever since I witnessed the births of my girls I don't see how anyone can go through with an abortion. I know if I was a woman then my viewpoint could possibly change. I see the choice of abortion as an option in case of rape because the pain associated with this would be brutal, but MOST abortions happen because a man and a woman can't control their sexual desires and get pregnant. The easiest way for them to get past their sin is to get rid of the life form they created. It is a scientific fact that the baby is a living organism from conception. This is also a huge election because there may be 2-3 Supreme Court justices who will be nominated during this presidency.

So, my choice is easy.

Obama 1, McCain 1

Issue 1: McCain vs. Obama

2008-08-10T14:03:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the smallness of the picture. I am still a novice at blogging.

I probably won't have too much time here in the next couple of weeks because of school starting, but I wanted to do this.

For the next several blogs I will write about important issues and what each candidate believes in that issue, and then I will make my opinion. I hope to educate the voters come November.

Issue #1: Iraq War

Obama believes:

This is a dumb war. He says he is not opposed to wars, but not dumb wars. He has always been against the war (unlike Clinton). Believes in withdrawing of troops and even had a plan to leave Iraq fully by April 2008. Yes, I know if it August 2008. Believes in political solution.

McCain believes:

Supported use of forces in Iraq. Has criticized the management of war, but is still behind most of Bush's policies. Supports troop increases and believes in the moral value of the war.

What I believe:

I believe this war was a mistake. There are obvious positives and negatives about this war. One, we saved the people of Iraq the madman Saddam Hussein. We have taken tyranny out of Iraq and instilled the beginnings of a democratic government. Negatives are for sure the loss of lives. But think of the loss of lives if Hussein were still in power.

I f think that the Middle East will never be peaceful. It is impossible. There are many blunders here. The first starting with the WMD. Now, before you blame the Republicans on this, there is much evidence of high ranking democrats saying that Saddam and his WMD must be stopped. Both parties believed this. Bush's problem with Iraq is that he did not have an exit strategy. If we leave Iraq immediately, I believe Iran will be in when the troops leave and this will be a disaster. For this reason I am very much on the fence which person I would support for this.

I think Iraq is ready to take care of themselves. They are lucky we don't take all their oil and use it to pay off this war. Thinking budget-wise and the loss of American soldiers, I may have to give a slight edge to Obama.

So Obama 1, McCain 0.

Summer Update

2008-08-09T12:49:00.001-07:00

I know many of you are on pins and needles everyday waiting for an update. I apologize for this, but my motivation hasn't been there.

Here is an update since Washington DC ended:

We spent some time in Brownwood with Jaime's family for 4 days. Of course the girls had a blast and I got to spend some quality time with many of my nephews and niece while the others went out on the lake. The last time I went out on the lake I got very sick that night, plus I do not think boating is very fun.

I went to Newberg Night at the Ballpark with Brock. Very exciting evening if you love the Rangers.

I have spent quite a few days being a single parent as Jaime has tons of in service days she does. The girls were absolutely great.

We got the girls' pictures taken so I am sure I will be sharing those with you later.

We just enrolled Maddie is Fall Soccer! Yeah!

I am still almost fully recovered from my vasectomy. It still hurts to run, but I need to get my training ready for the 28 week chart that I have. I have been running 2-3 miles consistently. I am hoping the weather and my health cooperate with me throughout at least October.

I need some rain!

I go back to school on Monday. This year is going to be different. One thing I do enjoy is not doing Varsity volleyball anymore. I am looking forward to my 8th graders this year. I am also teaching a Personal Finance Class. I haven't even seen the curriculum yet, but I am sure since it is from Dave Ramsey it will be first class.

My mother has a birthday tomorrow.

Jaime and Maddie spent a whole day at Hawaiian Falls Water Park. Maddie loved it.

Well, that is all for now. I hope to keep this updated.

Washington DC Day 3

2008-07-23T08:45:00.001-07:00

This will finish out our series on the trip to Washington DC. The only thing we did on Day 4 was go to the International Spy Museum (no photos allowed) and did souvenir shopping. I told Jaime we weren't in the 80's anymore and that nobody bought souvenirs. What do you think?

Day 3 started out visiting museums in the Smithsonian. We first went to the National Air and Space Museum. Jaime and I quickly got bored of that and went to the Holocaust Museum. Since there are no photographs allowed there this will be a somewhat short blog. We spent probably 3 hours at the Holocaust Museum. I kinda already knew everything about it, but Jaime did have quite the learning experience. Which reminds me, there are many Holocaust survivors that are dying off. If you ever have a chance to hear one speak, I suggest you don't terry around.

We then went to look at the White House. Here are some pretty close pictures that we got to take. PS - We had to wait well over an hour to get to this location because of security reasons unknown to us.

The Archives Building. We went here around 5:30pm. Had to wait about 45 minutes to see all the documents. Jaime and I were very tired because we were on our feet ALL day.

Recognize this document?

Recognize this signature?

This didn't do much for me. These documents are so old you could barely make out what was written. I guess it is neat to see these documents, but not to wait in line forever.

We finished by relaxing in the hotel at night and then going to ESPN SportsZone for dinner. I was hoping to watch a little Rangers-Angels action.

Hope you enjoyed your tour through Washington DC. I should be going back in May 2009 with our 8th graders on an 8th grade trip. At least now I will have an idea about everything.

Also, we got the picture sent to us by Ralph Hall. It is a .jpg file also with a .zip

I have tried all the BitZipper and WinZip and still can't figure it out. If you are knowledgeable in this and would like to help me out, I will send you the file for you to open and you can save it like normal people and send it to me. Thanks in advance.

In the Morning

2008-07-17T20:21:00.001-07:00

In the morning I am gone for the procedure most men dread. I won't go into any specifics, but please say a little prayer that everything goes well. If I feel like it I will continue the Washington DC trip here in the next couple of days.

Topic to think about while I am out: Offshore drilling. C'mon Nancy, lay off!

Washington DC Day 2

2008-07-16T11:41:00.001-07:00

Day 2 in Washington DC was by far our favorite day. That morning we went to Arlington National Cemetery. The afternoon was spent touring the capitol with an assistant of Ralph Hall, and the evening was spent in the new Nationals Ballpark where the Nats won 5-0. (One of their few wins of the year). I apologize in advance for the many pictures and probably bad captions.

We took a tour of the cemetery on a trolley-like bus. It had several stops on the way. The first is the tomb of John F. Kennedy. Here is a interesting tidbit: His brother, Robert, is the only one buried in the cemetery with a cross as his tombstone.

I could have taken this picture 1,000 times. This place is huge with the tombstones all perfectly aligned. Makes you think of all the people who have sacrificed for our country.

Here we see a funeral progression. Wonder what the story was behind this soldier.

I forgot what this is called, but it is right in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The president gives every Memorial Day address from this location. In a future picture I will stand where the president stands.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The inspection part of the Changing of the Guard.

This was probably my favorite part. Watching this ritual gives you goosebumps. These men have to abide by many rules including the exclusion of alcohol. They have to be a certain height and have 29 inch waists. You can watch this on YouTube.

I am standing where the Presidents stand when they are giving the Memorial Day address.

My wife is so good looking. How did she ever marry me?

Mmmmmmmmmm

This starts our tour of the capitol. These were the first ever doors to the capitol. They look old.

The star we are standing on represents the absolute center of the District of Columbia. It felt like the city of Brady here in Texas.

This is where the Supreme Court ruled for most of 1800s. Imagine the geniuses and arguments that took place here. John Jay was the man!

The middle area is an area where nobody can walk. It is reserved for funerals, mostly presidential funerals. I remember when Reagan was here and people walking by the casket. The tour guide told us how long the line was to see him and I could tell you it was going to be a long wait.

This is a statue of famous women. From Susan B. Anthony to Sandra Day O'Conner to Rosa Parks. There is one more space available, but they are saving it for the first woman president. I have a feeling it will be awhile.

This was for my good friend Jeff Stanglin.

Not many people know that there is a statue of Chris Berman in the Capitol.

Jaime and I outside Ralph Hall's office.

By the way, Ralph Hall is 85 years young. Looks great. They took a picture of us with him in his office and will be sending us the picture. I will post it once we get it. He is one of the nicest men I have ever met. We are lucky to have men like that serve us in the House.

Just outside the capitol.

That night we traveled to the Navy Yard where the new Nationals Ballpark resided. Very easy to get to. This is the main gate where everyone enters.

For some reason I am not looking at the Presidents.

The view from our seats. Great ballpark. I will dedicate another blog to the comparison of Rangers Ballpark and Nationals Ballpark. It will be close.

Mmmmmmmmmm

Jaime and I got to "reconnect" with each other without children for 4 days. We missed them greatly, but it was great spending alone time with each other. We only had one little fight, but you will have to wait for Day 3 to hear about it.

That's it for Day 2. Please post a comment and let me know what you thought.

Enough said

2008-07-15T12:29:00.001-07:00

I guess if we had a democratic president or if George W. Bush didn't mess things up earlier, things would be different. LOL

Washington DC Day 1

2008-07-14T12:25:00.001-07:00

Last week Jaime and I had the opportunity to visit Washington D.C. Throughout the next 3 blogs I will highlight what we did for each of the days.

First: Day 1 - Tuesday, July 8th.

We flew from DFW to Reagan National. Took the metrorail everywhere we went so we didn't have a car. Everybody in Washington uses the metrorail because parking is scarce and expensive in Washington.

Here we ate at Union Station and Jaime took a picture with our future president and 2 people who will say anything to get elected.

After dinner we walked a long distance from our hotel to these memorials. This first one is the Korean War Memorial. The soldiers were many and each were different.

The next one is of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The wall is much longer than the picture shows.
This is in front of the World War II Memorial.
The is taken in front of the WWII Memorial. Right behind me when I took this shot was the Washington Monument. In front you can see the reflecting pool, Lincoln Memorial, and on either side is the Korean and Vietnam Memorials.

Lincoln looks taller than 6'5'' in this picture.

Abe Lincoln: War criminal or a great president?

Nice reflection on the reflecting pool. Also this is the place where runners go to run. Good security is the main reason they run here.

My first 5K

2008-07-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Eastridge Church of Christ had a huge 4th of July celebration. One of the events was a benefit 5K race. The problem with this is that it started at 4:00 in the afternoon. That's right, 3.1 miles in the afternoon heat running on asphalt. Here are some of the highlights:

I pretty much ran with Howard throughout the race. We kept telling each other how ridiculous this was running in such high temperatures. This was taken about 10 minutes before the race enjoying the shade.

The Start: Didn't want to start to fast now.

Finishing strong. Ended up in 9th place.

Although you can't see. My body is drenched in sweat and I was hurting pretty good.

A Week Out of Town

2008-07-03T08:06:00.001-07:00

We are finally home. Last Wednesday night we set out to drive from Royse City to May, Tx (near Brownwood) for a week long journey to visit Jaime's family. It was a great trip as the girls had a blast. There were many trips to the local swimming pool as well as Maddie caught her first fish. On Sunday night we embarked to Abilene to spend 3 nights with Jaime's sister and her family. During that stay we drove to Sweetwater to see Jaime's other sister and her family. It was a good time, but let me tell you....there is nothing better than sleeping in your own bed.

Down Deep Inside clip

2008-06-21T11:47:00.001-07:00

Back when I was a child, Brett and I would listen to this song non stop for days. This is for Brett.

Maddie's 1st Ranger Game

2008-06-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

Maddie went to her first Ranger game last night when the Rangers hosted the Atlanta Braves. I was pretty hesitant on whether or not to take Maddie. I like watching the game. I don't like to get interrupted. I didn't want to leave in the 5th inning like many people do with young children. It went great! Maddie was good until late in the 7th inning and we stayed until the end of the 8th inning.

By the way, the only reason Jaime likes going to the Ranger game is to eat, eat, and eat. She spent my retirement savings on food and ice cream. She told me when we go the game in Washington that she will get nachos.

Here are some pictures of the event:

A Shot....And a Goal!

2008-06-17T20:30:00.001-07:00

One of the things I am doing this summer is playing indoor soccer for the men's team of Eastridge. I was hesitant to do this for many reasons. Number one, I don't exactly look like the typical soccer player. Number two, I haven't played soccer in 25 years. Number 3, I did not want to get hurt. My goals this year is to not hurt the team when I am in the game and also to score a goal. Well, today the other team didn't score when I was in the game and also I scored a goal. I have had about 5 close calls, but I finally converted after I gained possession of one of my misses about 5 feet from the goal line. I saw the ball get away from me and the open net when I dove with my legs to dribble the ball in the net.

I have figured out indoor soccer is much like hockey. If I didn't play 7 hours a day of hockey on the PS2 with Jeff then I think I would be totally lost. There are 5 players per team and a goalie. You learn to use the boards to your advantage. Never hold the ball (or puck) too long. I try to play like Jere Lehtinen. We had a double-header today and I am very sore. I ran a lot last night and it caught up to me tonight.

I am running out of ideas on this blog. If I don't start getting comments then I will cease to exist in many, many lives.

Perkins' Father's Day 2008

2008-06-16T11:19:00.001-07:00

We kids made this video for our Dad for Father's Day.

Maddie Finishing up Swimming Lessons

2008-06-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

Maddie finished swimming lessons yesterday we a great day and 10 minutes of Thursday. Thanks again to Laura for an outstanding job. Hopefully she will welcome her back next year.

Maddie's Swimming Lessons

2008-06-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

Don't be fooled by the pictures and video. Maddie is scared to go underwater. Laura has done a fantastic job of making Maddie feel comfortable. We appreciate all she has done this week.

Training Has Begun

2008-05-30T10:22:00.001-07:00

The marathon training has begun.

I have been doing much research on running and pacing. I have completed 3 runs of at least 2 miles this week. I average around 10:00 minutes a mile and feel very good when I am done. I plan on running 3 miles tonight, but will stay between 3-4 miles during the heat of the summer. I actually like running right now. 5 minutes after I complete a run I feel like I can do it all over again.

January 18th in Houston will be the day. If you want to come be apart of it, Jaime and I have reserved a room with a fold out couch.

Oak Ridge Boys In Concert 1982

2008-05-22T19:05:00.001-07:00

I am gone for about 4 days so enjoy this during my absence.

What's on Blake's Mind?

2008-05-15T19:43:00.001-07:00

Just thought I would keep you abreast on what is running through my mind.

1) The Oak Ridge Boys have announced they are halfway done recording a rock-in-roll album. This excites me a great deal.

2) Our annual 8th grade boys vs. Faculty game is tomorrow. The faculty is undefeated in the 9 years I have been teaching. This team we have this year will be our best yet.

3) I am still thinking about my marathon in Houston on January 18, 2009. I have been doing much studying on how to train. The entry fee has been paid and the hotel has been reserved. Anyone want to run with me?

4) School is almost over. Can I handle both girls 2 weeks by myself?

5) During the summer I will be playing in an indoor soccer league with some guys at church. Last time I played soccer I had 6 year old girls on my team.

6) I still haven't seen the Stanglin baby. I want to visit and visit soon.

7) I still think about the Stars' game I was at against San Jose in Game 6.

8) Still thinking about that Oak Ridge Boys' album!

God's Hope

2008-05-08T16:55:00.000-07:00

My Dallas Stars' Experience

2008-05-05T18:05:00.003-07:00

For the last two weeks, Kirk Wade and I have been in discussion about attending a Dallas playoff game. I have been to one other playoff game (Reunion Arena vs. Sharks with Jeff) and it was something I wanted to experience again.

After deciding against going to Game 4 (Wed. night) because of church duty, we decided after Game 5 we would get the cheapest tickets available. On Saturday morning Kirk got us two cheap seats on the next to last row in the upper level corner of the offensive zone.

I was rather nervous about this game. I didn't want the Stars to be a part of history by blowing a 3 games to 0 lead in the 2nd round.

I don't know what to say about this game other than "classic".

To be part of this experience will be one I will never forget. Oh sure I have seen multi-overtime games before, but nothing like being in the arena. I have never heard AAC like that. I was proud that Kirk and I stayed although we did have school the next day. Kirk did say that if I didn't work with him that he would have called in sick the next day. I told him not to evaluate my teaching today.

Marty Turco was the difference in this game. I felt like San Jose had more chances than Dallas and Turco turned them all away. When Morrow scored the goal at 1:25am the place went nuts. I will never forget that moment or the game.

I got home at 3:15am and it still took awhile to fall asleep. Will go to bed around 8:30 tonight (hoping Maddie will cooperate).

Anyone want to give us $$ for the Western Conference Finals against the Red Wings. Whenever Kirk and I watch a game together (in the non-gayest of ways) we are 3-0.

Bass notes

2008-05-03T14:52:00.001-07:00

Everyone knows I am a fan of the bass. Here are some classics. Some of those JD Sumner ones brings me back to a kid listening to the record player.

Happy Birthday

2008-04-24T19:27:00.000-07:00

Today, Richard Sterban turned 65 years old. You guys know what I think about this guy so I will just say, "Happy Birthday!"

Also, on a side note, the Oak Ridge Boys are going to be at Game 4 of the Mavericks-Hornets series singing the National Anthem and also providing the halftime entertainment. If anyone has tickets, please let me know.

I WILL DO IT!!!

2008-04-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

The date: Sunday, January 18th.

The mission: 26.2 miles in the Houston Marathon.

This is kind of a lifelong dream of mine. Less than 1% of the world can claim this athletic endeavor. I will start training 26 weeks before the race, but I will start running 2-4 miles consistently before I start training.

My father has run a marathon in his earlier days and although there were many jokes made at his expense for this, I am rather proud.

This will be my only marathon because I don't want my body to take a constant beating like my fathers. I also know that there will be tremendous weight loss in training. And those who know me that is one thing I don't want.

My aim is to finish. 5 hours will be a reasonable goal.

Hypotheticals

2008-04-19T19:43:00.001-07:00

1.) Would you go skydiving if there was a 1% of your parachute not opening. The reward for doing this is $1.5 million dollars.

2.) If you were to be one of the top 5 athletes in a particular sport, what sport would that be?

3.) If you were certain that God spoke to you to sacrifice one of your children, would you?

4.) If you were to be transformed into one of the Oak Ridge Boys, who would you choose and why?

Decision 2008

2008-04-07T10:36:00.001-07:00

Jaime and I had two free airline tickets anywhere American Airlines flies in the continental United States. This summer we were trying to decide where we wanted to go.

I wanted to go to:

1) Colorado - I wanted to fly to Denver and stay in a nice, secluded cabin. Kinda like a second honeymoon.
2) Seattle - I always wanted to go to the Northwest. Also wanted to trek to Canada.
3) Grand Canyon - Having to rent a car and drive over 3 hours from Phoenix made this choice easy to forget.

Jaime wanted to go to:

1) New York City - I promised her before we got married that we will go there sometime in our lifetime. That might be 30 years from now because I have no interest in ever going there. Rude people, crowded city, and expensive shows and hotels are not my idea of a good time.
2) Washington DC - Didn't want to go to a crime-ridden city.
3) Boston - Again, have no urge to go there. Rude people. I do want to go to Fenway sometime.

The winner:

Washington DC. We plan on staying 3 nights there. If you know of any great things to do there please let me know.

We plan on visiting:

Arlington Cemetery
White House
Washington Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Smithsonian Museums
Nationals baseball game
Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Church of Oprah Exposed

2008-04-04T07:15:00.001-07:00

For some reason this really got to me. There aren't many more influential people out there like Oprah and for her do be doing this is devastating. I don't watch her and will continue not to watch her. I know she does many good things for many people, but to say that Jesus Christ is not the only way to salvation is absurd.

Cute Maddie Story

2008-04-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday morning all of us were in the living room doing what we normally doing...Jaime on the computer, Maddie and Macie playing, and I was cleaning. Maddie then asked us where we were going to eat tonight. I told Maddie we may stay at home tonight because we are low on money for the month. Maddie didn't really acknowledge us.

Then about 15 minutes later Jaime went to Maddie's room and noticed Maddie was in her closet. She saw Maddie going through her pants pockets and Jaime asked what she was doing. Maddie told Jaime that she was looking for money in her pockets so we can eat tonight.

What a heart!

Oak Ridge Boys Heartbeat 1987

2008-03-26T23:10:00.001-07:00

If you want me to start writing again tell me what you think of this video.

Updates and Thoughts

2007-11-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would give you an update since I haven't written in awhile.

Macie is growing up. She crawls everywhere (and quickly). She has learned to pull up which usually means a fall is coming.

We went to Maddie's Open House this past Monday. She and her classmates showed what they have made and sang several songs for everybody. I have it on video so hopefully someday I will learn to post those videos on here. It is amazing what Maddie's teacher (Mrs. Conner) has done with those kids.

I am enjoying life much more not doing volleyball. Basketball season has started and we are 2-0, but the pressure is not as great as volleyball and I am getting my appetite back, I have gained 8 pounds since November 1st. I hope to gain around 15 more before next August before it starts again.

I had the honor of going to the Texas-Texas A&M game on Friday. It was the largest crowd to ever see a game at Kyle Field. It was amazing to see the Aggies, who were huge underdogs, to beat the Longhorns. It will be an experience I will never forget.

Now on to Thanksgiving. On Wednesday night we met with our immediate family and had a great time. On Thursday we met at my parent's with the extended family. Had 27 people in my parents house and everything went pretty smoothly. The Cowboys killed the Jets to go to 10-1.

Between now and Christmas is usually my favorite time of year. Things I despise about this time of year are:

1) Christmas shopping. Nothing I hate worse. I never seem to pick the right gift and everywhere is so crowded. Plus, we have too many people to buy for so finding the right presents in a few places is very hard.

2) Christmas specials on television. There is nothing worse than Sunday night made for tv movies that are about Christmas.

3) Money seems to go out much quicker in December.

4) Worthless bowl games. Watching BYU vs. Central Michigan does absolutely nothing for me.

But I will go to an Oak Ridge Boys concert on Dec. 18th in Richardson.

Political Blog #1

2007-11-09T10:33:00.001-08:00

My good friend Jeff has asked me to start blogging about politics. Now, I am not the smartest cookie in the cookie jar, but I will try to have some good points.

In the picture above we see Senator Obama failing to put his hand over his heart during the national anthem. I checked the video of this and it is this way throughout the entire song. On a side note, it was a terrible version of the national anthem.

I have seen many people do this. At sporting events it is pretty common to have the same appearance as Obama and they seem to be showing respect to the anthem, flag, and country.

Here is the question:

Is Obama held to a higher standard because he is running for commander-in-chief? He already is a Senator and I believe they are set to a higher standard as well. I agree he has his rights not to put his hand over his heart, but I think I would want my next President to respect the customs of this country enough to do this simple gesture of respect.

Just so you know I have no problem with him not wearing an American flag pin.

What are your opinions on this matter?

Underrated Joys

2007-11-06T13:17:00.001-08:00

Today I thought about writing a few things that give me joy in life:

1) When you don't have to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch.

2) When the total at the grocery store is less than what you thought it would be.

3) When Kenzie sits by your bedside waiting for you to get up.

4) When you pull into your driveway and your yard is freshly cut.

5) When you see Maddie pray by herself over Macie hoping she will feel better.

6) When the wife hugs and kisses you for no particular reason other than she loves you.

7) When my mother makes rice with the soupy chicken on top.

8) Coming home to a clean house.

9) The feeling after a win.

10) Pulling into your destination after a long trip.

11) When teaching on the Holocaust, seeing students actually cry.

12) Figuring something out in Wednesday night Bible class.

13) Having my parents take care of Maddie and Macie when we work.

14) Seeing Macie smile.

15) Maddie giving me kisses while I buckle her in her seat.

16) Seeing that all the bottles are washed.

17) Only 13 more months till student loans are payed off.

18) Knowing that Tony Romo will be the Cowboy's QB for the next 6 years.

19) Knowing that my brother will never beat me in basketball or tennis again.

20) A low note by Richard Sterban.

Greatest YouTube Video Ever

2007-11-05T08:32:00.001-08:00

Poor Macie

2007-11-02T11:40:00.001-07:00

I am unable to load photos today, so it will have to wait till tomorrow.

Macie has been suffering the last few days. The doctor says she has croup, walking pneumonia, and a double ear infection. That sounds like alot. Luckily, Macie has gotten some medicene in her and seems to be doing much better. This is Macie's first sickness and we hope it is her last for awhile.

If you have ever come across a baby with croup, it is hard to see how they are still living. Their cough sounds like a baby seal and you wonder how they are breathing. I hope Macie continues to recover and we can go back to being our wonderful, happy family.

Maddie as Uniqua from the Bakyardigans

2007-11-01T15:09:00.001-07:00

Halloween - Stupid Holiday

2007-10-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

These are many reasons I do not like Halloween:

1) Normally the weather is very uncooperative. Most of the time it is windy and cold.

2) Candy. I think candy is one of the more overrated things in this world. Try telling Maddie after she goes trick-or-treating she can't have candy tonight because it is too close to her bedtime.

3) Dressing up. Anything you have to wear a costume to is very homosexual. I hate spending money so Maddie could have a costume.

4) People knocking on your door for candy when you don't have the light on.

5) The people from the neighboring trailer park come and crowds our neighborhood. There is no way you can drive on our little bitty streets with the traffic and the other people that leave their cars parked on the curb.

6) Halloween movies. I have never liked scary movies.

7) Watching teenagers and young adults go trick-or-treating. A cheap way to get candy.

8) My students think more about Halloween than their upcoming Chapter 5 Test.

9) Jack-o-lanterns = waste of time and energy

Volleyball 2007

2007-10-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

The blog is officially up and running.

One of the reasons why I haven't written in so long is the hectic atmosphere that is Dallas Christian Volleyball. This season was by far the most hectic I have ever had.

Practice started on August 6th and the season ended with a playoff loss at Midland Christian this past Saturday. Here are some of the highlights (or lowlights) of the season:

1) Finished with a record of 26-12. We finished 11-5 in district. We finished 3rd out of 8 teams in TAPPS 5A-Division 2

2) I had the greatest parents I could have ever asked except for one particular family. I would go into detail, but I can't on such a public forum.

3) We beat Prestonwood Chr. this year. They are always one of the top teams in the state. This was the highlight of the year.

4) I will really miss the 8 seniors I had on the team. I coached these girls when they were in 7th grade and I can honestly tell you that I love every single one of them.

5) The 12 girls I had represent Christ in everything they do. I am more proud of them for this than I am their volleyball accomplishments.

6) Having Steve Hutcheson and Brandon McLean help is such a blessing. They are both quality men that I learned much from.

7) The volleyball girls love Maddie and Maddie loves them just as much.

8) I drove 1,980 miles on the bus this year for volleyball. Thank God those were all safe miles.

I will be writing daily so please keep checking and leave your comments.

Summer is Over

2007-08-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially over. With volleyball season starting Monday I will have no more time to call summer. Volleyball is basically a summer job as well, but that will be another topic. Here is a brief recap of the summer:

1) Started out taking care of Maddie and Macie when Jaime still taught school. This made me appreciate Jaime even more.

2) We went to San Antonio our first weekend where I sprained my ankle severly. My ankle still isn't the same and I regret not staying off of it. We went to Sea World and got to spend some quality time with Brett, Jenny, Zach, and Ethan.

3) The next week was preparing for DC volleyball camp and being part of a committee to select our new MS principal.

4) DC Volleyball Camp. The longest week of my life. It went great, but it wears me out.

5) The next week Jaime had a conference in downtown all week. More quality time with the two girls.

6) We then had Maddie's birthday at Chuck E Cheese and then out to Brownwood to help my in-laws move.

7) Jaime and I then took 4 days to go to Austin for my coaching clinic. We had a great time, but missed the kids a bunch. Thank goodness for grandparents!

8) The next week I took the Varsity hopefuls to San Antonio for a team camp. I think this team we have this year can do wonders!

9) Winding down the summer has been fun. Keeping track of Ranger trades, enjoying our new church are some of the things I did,

Will have a volleyball report next week.

5) The next week was

HELP!!!

2007-07-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to figure out the last 2 years how to convert videos to the computer or a DVD.

I have a Panasonic mini-disc camcorder that records from DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD-RAM. I don't know how to switch them to computer or to a dvd. I have read online, but can't find anything.

Any help would be appreciated.

William Lee Golden - Louisiana Red Dirt Highway

2007-07-24T07:24:00.001-07:00

For Kirk Wade:

Mr. Mom

2007-06-29T07:28:00.001-07:00

This week was a week where Jaime spent doing an AVID meeting everyday in downtown Dallas. This left me with an opportunity to be Mr. Mom for the entire week. Here is a rundown of what I learned:

1) My mother has a tougher job than I do.
2) Maddie is becoming a good helper for her little sister.
3) I have to get out of the house at least once a day.
4) I miss Jaime.
5) It is hard to cook when you have been taking care of kids all day.
6) I do not do a good job of dressing and fixing the hair of girls.
7) If the kids don't nap, you don't get a break.
8) There is nothing on television between 2-5pm.
9) With the rain this week, it is impossible to go outside and kill time playing.

Oak Ridge Boys BLOOPER!! - Jesus Was Born Today

2007-06-26T14:48:00.001-07:00

ORB - Blooper. Poor Duane....

Top 5 Bottom 5 Things I Have Done This Summer

2007-06-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

Since it has been awhile since I have posted I will give you a top 5, bottom 5 things I have done this summer:

Bottom 5:

1) Being on a committee to interview and meet with principal candidates. I really feel for administrators. Having to do this was a learning experience and shows what hard decisions people have to make. Shows God works in many ways.

2) Doing volleyball camp for girls going into 1st-4th grade. It was hard to keep their interest for almost 3 hours a day, but through some good ideas from a couple of my varsity players and Jaime made it better.

3) Going to my father-in-law's retirement party and the guys there making me stand up so they could have a little fun with my height. Very embarrassing and humiliting. I am not a novelty act.

4) Twisting my ankle severly in San Antonio while playing basketball. It has been 3 weeks now and my ankle is still swollen and purple. There will be a rematch next summer.

5) Not being able to mow my yard because it has rained so much. This time next month we should be begging for rain.

Top 5:

1) Being able to spend time with my girls. Watching Maddie at the Saturn Rd VBS made my heart melt.

2) Being able to stay up later and sleeping a bit later. Macie is sleeping well through the night although we have to go in her room several times a day to put her pacifier in her mouth.

3) Going to San Antonio. We had a great time staying with Brett, Jenny, Zachary, and Ethan. Plus Sea World was a blast (even though I was in a wheelchair, sorry Jaime)

4) Being able to watch Season 2 of "24". Thank you Blockbuster Online

5) Being able to go on a date with my wife. It is really hard to focus on your marriage when you have 2 kids so young. Thanks to my parents for allowing Jaime and I to spend quality time together.

Ok, you guys pick the next topic: I will hope to update daily.

Sea World 2007

2007-06-06T12:12:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday we left for Brett and Jenny's house and a stay in San Antonio. We have been looking forward to this for a long time. On Sunday after dinner Brett and I decided we would play our much anticipated game of basketball and tennis. We decided to play basketball first. I won't say who was winning and how much, but Brett suffered an injury when I was trying to knock the ball off his leg while going out of bounce. Brett won't be fathering any kids anytime soon.

After he recovered 3 teenagers from next door wanted to play so Brett and I played them 2 against 3. We won the first game and then the second game I landed on a foot and twisted my ankle severly. I was in a ton of pain and feeling the angry glance from my wife I knew I was going to be in trouble. After spending 10 minutes on the ground writhing in pain, Brett took me to a medical clinic for some x-rays. Thank goodness the x-rays were negative. But the real problem was Sea World the next day. We rented a wheelchair for $10 and Jaime (w/o complaining) pushed me and Maddie around the entire park for the entire day. I think I owe my beautiful wife much. Also, thanks to Brett and Jenny for the hospitality and it was great to spend some time with my nephews. Here are some pics of the trip.

Maddie's favorite part of the day. She threw little fish into the mouth of the dolphin. It's amazing how gentle these mammels are.

This was Jaime's favorite show. I thought the 2nd girl from the left was real cute.
Jaime and Maddie at the Critters Show. Jaime's arms are now toned from pushing us in a wheelchair all day.

Us in the wheelchair. You won't find me wearing a cap too often. I am wearing my favorite Team Finland Hockey cap.

Sea World

2007-05-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we (excluding Macie) are going to venture to San Antonio to my brother's house to enjoy a full day at Sea World. This will be Maddie's first trip to San Antonio and Sea World. We are looking forward to seeing her reaction to everything. We will give a report back when we return.

New Terrorist Arrested

2007-05-29T14:08:00.001-07:00

The Oak Ridge Boys - I Know

2007-05-22T15:39:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite all-time gospel songs.

What You May Not Know About Me

2007-05-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

1.) I don't mind going to work when I don't have to coach.

2.) I really like Elvis Presley. He is one of the Top 3 solo singers of all time right behind Duane Allen and Neil Diamond.

3.) I make it a point to be the nicest person in the world to wait staff and fast food personnel. I hope to make their day a little better by serving me.

4.) Maddie has me wrapped around her little finger.

5.) So does Kenzie.

6.) Andrew is the only person in all my family that could beat me in tennis. No one could beat me in basketball. (Although I would like Michael to challenge me).

7.) I am a great driver.

8.) Understanding the Bible gets harder for me for some reason.

9.) Barney drives me crazy, but Sesame Street doesn't.

10.) Whatifsports.com's Gridiron Dynasty is my favorite hobby ever.

11.) Having my mother (and father) be our care-giver when we are at work is the biggest blessing ever in my life.

12.) I am scared if getting old and slow.

13.) I do not like talking on the phone.

Maddie and Macie

2007-05-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Mimi had a great idea of taking the same pose and dress with Macie at 3 months and compare it with the same one she took of Maddie at the same age. Very cute. Remember, Macie is much heavier than Maddie at this time.

#31-40

2007-04-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

The list continues:

#31 - Roy Williams
#32 - Jeff Jordan (When I was a kid in Middle School, I chose this number because of him)
#33 - Tony Dorsett
#34 - Hershel Walker
#35 - Marty Turco
#36 - Jussi Jokinen
#37 - Kenny Rogers
#38 - ?
#39 - ?
#40 - Bill Bates

5 Most Painful Moments

2007-04-16T18:23:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my father's blog I decided to list the 5 most significant physical pain that I have felt:

5) The readjusting of my dislocated knuckle. I dislocated my right, pinky knuckle while punching a wall during a faculty-8th grade basketball game back in 2000. The doctor gave me shots to numb the pain, but I still felt the pain.

4) Ganglion block at the doctor's office (Oct-Nov, 1989). If you don't know what this is I can sure tell you. It is a shot given to the side of the neck to hit your central nervous system. This was not a quick shot either. If I remember right it took between 3-4 minutes to administer this shot. I knew I was in trouble when the nurse came in and started crying.

3) Ganglion block at the hospital (Oct-Nov 1989). This was my first shot in the neck and I didn't like it too much. Seeing my mother cry was not something I needed with a 4 inch needle sticking in my neck.

2) Kidneystones (Sept 10, 2001). Woke up in the morning and had severe back pains and vomiting. Literally thought I was going to die. Had to spend two nights in the hospital and passed the stones between 1st and 2nd periods three days later. That was a good feeling of relief.

1) Compound fracture (left wrist), October 8, 1989. While playing 1-on-1 football with my already-hit-puberty brother on a Sunday afternoon, I made a great move to the outside to utilize my speed. Well, Brett then tackled me onto the sidewalk where I was bracing myself for the fall. My wrist looked terrible. Problem was, my mother and sister were shopping, my father was in the middle of his long jog. Brett got on his bike and peddled like crazy to get my father. He sprinted the rest of the way home and went to the hospital. 3 surgeries later around early December I found relief. I had severe nerve damage to my arm that had me in constant agonizing pain. This is something I know I will never forget, or my parents. I will forever have the scars of the pins and skin graph that I had.

Tonight Show - Surprise Appearance

2007-04-08T19:18:00.001-07:00

Uniform Numbers #21-30

2007-03-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

#21 - Myself - It is my favorite number. Sorry Guy Carbonneau.
#22 - Brett Perkins. Sorry GW Goal Stanley Cup Winning Brett Hull
#23 - Micheal Jordan
#24 - Everson Walls
#25 - Joe Nieuwendyk
#26 - Jere Lehtinen (Was there any doubt?)
#27 - Shane Churla
#28 - Darren Woodson
#29 - Kenneth Gant (This one was hard)
#30 - Manny Fernandez

Uniform Numbers #11-20

2007-03-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

#11 - Danny White (most underrated QB in Dallas Cowboy history)
#12 - Roger Staubach (don't remember a down he played)
#13 - Dan Marino (wish he could have won the Super Bowl)
#14 - Gary Hogeboom (great name)
#15 - Jamie Langenbrunner (loved the guy)
#16 - Dean Evason (anyone else remember his SH goal against Det?)
#17 - Quincy Carter (I hate I have to put him on here)
#18 - Blake Perkins (my first basketball number when I was 6)
#19 - Steve Yzerman (I respect that guy, played on one team his whole career)
#20 - Ron Springs (owner of new kidney thanks to Everson Walls)

Uniform Numbers #1-10

2007-03-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be neat to let you know what the first athlete that comes to my mind when the number is mentioned. I couldn't think of a picture so I thought I would share with you my close-up of Richard during a recent ORB concert.

#1 - Rafael Septien (Warren Moon a close 2nd)
#2 - Derien Hatcher
#3 - Alex Rodriguez
#4 - Toby Gowin
#5 - Darryl Sydor
#6 - Trevor Daley
#7 - John Elway
#8 - Troy Aikman
#9 - Mike Modano
#10 - Pavel Bure (Jeff remembers these days)

I Am An Addict

2007-03-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have to admit something. For the last 10 years I have been addicted to nasal sprays. Now, before we get any further, I am not the type of person who squeezes the bottle all into one nostril. Each night I would spray a little bit, enoug for me to go to sleep. I have tried cold turkey several times, but the lure of a good night's sleep was too much to pass up.

I have bought a $40 kit called Rhinostat. With this, it helps you ween off the chemicals you are addicted to. I have been applying the drops and haven't noticed too much difference in doing this and colds turkey. I am determined never to use nasal spray again. If I use it I will pay everyone who comments on this post $5. If I do this, then maybe I have more incentive to get unaddicted.

Please post so I can get your name down for the $5.

Top 4 Elvis Songs

2007-03-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

4) Love Me Tender - A nice little ballad. Would be a great Oak Ridge Boys' song with Duane taking the lead.

3) In the Ghetto - A late Elvis entry. This song is signature Elvis and whenever I hear it I think of a fat Elvis about to sing his last song.

2) Can't Help Falling in Love With You - Wonderful love song that makes me think of all the girls I fell in love with - all one of them.

1) Suspicious Minds - Not even close. Wonderful song. Great beat, chorus, background vocals.

Oak Ridge Boys - Songs I Don't Like

2007-03-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

I know what you are thinking....another ORB post. But, here I list some songs I usually never listen to. That doesn't mean they are not greatness, but my personal opinion. Hopefully I can list some songs you will recognize.

ELVIRA (1981) - The song that the Oaks are most known for makes me want to gag. The only great part about it is Richard's bass parts, but that is getting old. Maddie has developed a liking to this song and points like Richard does during the bass parts.

FANCY FREE (1981) - Jeff and Gerald will kill me for this. I remember as a kid hoping this song would end on the cassette player in the car so that "Everyday" can come on

OZARK MOUNTAIN JUBILEE (1983) - William Lee Golden leads. It is a very slow song.

I'LL BE TRUE TO YOU (1978) - The first ORB balled that went to #1. Boring story, slow chorus. They actually put these on back-to-back records.

I GUESS IT NEVER HURTS TO HURT SOMETIMES (1984) - Very slow song. Joe leads, chorus slow. Richard does have a good part toward to end.

ANY SONG WHERE STEVE SANDERS SANG LEAD.

I hope the ORB doesn't read this.

Worldliness vs. Godliness

2007-03-07T08:13:00.000-08:00

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world - the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does - comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

I John 2:15-17

I recently gave a chapel talk on worldliness and thanks to my father I received very good information. When I think of worldliness, I think of what the world and the media thinks is okay. What they think is okay doesn't mean God thinks it is okay. John warns us in his book about this. I can't imagine what was worldly in his day, but it is probably times 100 today.

What kind of tv shows do we watch? Television is far different today than when I was a kid. Primetime tv is pretty much a joke now. If you watch comedies, most of them get their laughs by having people poke fun of other people. We take this subconsciously and use it in our everyday lives.

What kind of video games are out there? I hear my students all the time talking about playing these graphic and violent video games hours upon hours. That is why most of them are out of shape and have the social skills of a snail.

What kind of language to people use? Now, on television you hear all sorts of language. I never really had a problem with language because I think I am intelligent enough to find words that aren't profane.

So, whatever the media and politicians try to tell you what is okay, think about it in terms of Godliness. God forbids many things. I am working on trying to fix mine. But thank to God's grace, hopefully I will still see eternity.

Macie Pictures

2007-03-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

She just turned 4 weeks old.

Spy

2007-03-01T10:06:00.000-08:00

There is a show that I happened to come upon about a month ago. While surfing through PBS I noticed a British show called "Spy" that came on in two, one-hour segments at 1:00 am and 2:00 am Sunday morning.

The basis for this show is that MI6 had 3,000 applicants to become a spy and they took the top 8 and sent them through rigorous education and exercises to see which one would be the greatest spy of all of them.

Everything is in a heavy English accent which was kinda cool. It was also very cool to see how spies are trained. My favorite, Nicola (pictured above), won. The stupid thing about this show is that there is no prize, no job, no anything.

So I encourage you to channel surf PBS sometime and tape this show. Good, clean tv.

Recruiting Saturday

2007-02-21T20:49:00.000-08:00

Go Duquesne Dukes!

Friendship and Politics

2007-02-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

Today, I thought I would write about the differences in political parties and how it breaks apart some friendships. I have actually seen political differences get in the way of two people becoming friends . I have also seen political differences break families apart.

I thought I would give you a view from the other side. Jeff and I have been friends for a long time. I consider him one of my best friends and someone who I can rely on more than anybody. Jeff and I were roommates for almost 4 years in college and we got along perfectly. Was it the hockey? Was it the good looks? I don't know, but I can 't remember us getting into a fight.

The thing is Jeff and I have pretty opposite views when it comes to politics. I am a moderate-conservative and Jeff is a liberal (at least that is what I think). Sometimes the word liberals have a negative connotation to it. We didn't get too deep into political talk while we were at college. We mainly talked about our political science professors and their views. Sometimes we agreed and sometimes we didn't agree. I don't think Jeff has ever gotten upset with me for any of my political views, and I know I haven't gotten upset with Jeff over his. Actually, I have learned much from Jeff. He knows there are sour apples within the Dem party and I know its the same for the Rep party.

To sum it all up. Just because people have different views doesn't mean they are wrong. One thing that I know is that most of the time, these people LOVE their country. That is why they are in office.

The Oak Ridge Boys - Just A Little Talk With Jesus

2007-02-15T20:42:00.001-08:00

Live from 1977. If anyone can doubt Richard's coolness, the doubt is erased here.

Thought this was cool

2007-02-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

Pictures from Feb 4th

2007-02-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

Macie Jordan Perkins

2007-02-05T07:13:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, February 4th, 3:37 PM, Macie Jordan Perkins came into this world. I will have a photo blog showing various pictures later today.

Everybody seems healthy and big sister Maddie is so very proud.

At the Hospital

2007-02-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

Well it is Sunday afternoon, Feb 4th and we are a couple of hours away from delivering child #2. Will post pictures and commentary when it is over.

Blog Update

2007-02-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

There will not be a blog posted until the birth of our 2nd child. The baby girl is due on Friday, February 9th. Please keep Jaime and the baby in your prayers.

Sickness

2007-01-26T20:47:00.000-08:00

This has been a rough week on the Perkins family with sickess.

First, I was sick from last Saturday morning till now with cold/allergy like symptoms. I kept myself medicated so I never really got too bad.

Now, Jaime is very sick. She has told me she hasn't felt this bad other than the flu. She is coughing all night and can't take many of the good medications because of her being pregnant. Please pray for her because her due date in now less than 2 weeks away.

Maddie has also developed a cough and a runny nose. I hope that doesn't get worse.

My mother is now bedridden with fever, chills, and a sore throat. I hope she can use her days off to rest up.

Well, I am off sleeping in the baby's room till all are well. No fan from hell so I don't know how I am going to fall asleep.

Childhood Story

2007-01-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

Jaime and I are both suffering from cold-like, allergy systems since last Saturday and Jaime had a rough night last night coughing. It reminded me of this story.

I was in sixth grade. I had a huge coughing attack that didn't seem to go away. Now usually when I am sick at such a young age I would call out to my mother or father and they would take care of me like the good parents they are.

Except this night.

I didn't have to call for my parents. My father came in like he always did when he was sick and told me to pick up my pillow. I figured he was going set up a palate for me in the living room couch, or maybe I would get to sleep in my parents room. I followed my father as he exited into the kitchen and went toward the back door. He then opened the door to the back seat of our 1986 Chevy Surburban. Imagine my surprise when I realized he wasn't going to take me for a stroll through Pleasant Grove, but to sleep in the vehicle in the garage.

After about 5 minutes my mother came and got me.

Dallas Morning News Article

2007-01-23T07:54:00.000-08:00

Oak Ridge Boys blend various styles

COUNTRY MUSIC: Longevity a cornerstone of harmonious quartet

06:52 PM CST on Monday, January 22, 2007

By MARIO TARRADELL / The Dallas Morning News

Texan Duane Allen joined veteran country music group the Oak Ridge Boys in 1966, when he was a 22-year-old classical-music-degree graduate of East Texas State University, now Texas A&M University-Commerce.

He's been an Oak for 41 years and counting.That's a lifetime in one job, something most of us couldn't even imagine. Not only that, the other three current members of the four-part harmony quartet – baritone William Lee Golden, bass Richard Sterban and tenor Joe Bonsall – have called themselves Oaks for at least three decades.
Courtesy
The Oaks (a.k.a. Oak Ridge Boys)

And the band hasn't slowed down. The group still averages about 150 concert dates a year. In 2006, they played 157 shows. Add Wednesday's gig at Fort Worth's Bass Performance Hall to the 2007 touring tally.

"We just love what we do," Mr. Allen, 63, says by phone from his home in Tennessee. "When I was a little boy growing up in Texas, I used to dream about singing in a quartet, singing four-part harmony. Back then it was gospel music, because that was all my little mind could imagine.

"I dreamed of being in one of those groups. I couldn't dream any higher," says Mr. Allen, who was raised in northeast Texas, just south of Paris. "I thought that was the ultimate.

"The Oak Ridge Boys called me, and I joined in 1966 and I got to live all those dreams. I saw the top of the gospel music industry, and I still realized there was more. I wanted to take our music to a wider audience."

He did. With 1977's "Y'all Come Back Saloon," an easygoing, down-home number that immediately established the group's hearty-voiced sound, the Oak Ridge Boys began a string of country-music staples. In all, they enjoyed 34 Top 10 hits, including 17 No. 1 singles, which carried them through 1991.

Plus, with 1981's pop-crossover smash "Elvira," the Oaks had achieved pop-culture fame, enjoying several gold and platinum albums.

"It's that big, booming bass voice and those other three voices singing so aggressively," he says of the group's signature style. "There are no falsettos in our group. We are four full voices. We don't sing pretty, four-part harmony and make it blend. We are very aggressive in our singing. We put all the power into our music."

That hasn't changed. The Oaks remain active recording artists with 2006's Front Row Seats, the group's seventh release since 2001 on gospel imprint Spring Hill Music. At Spring Hill, the group can freely glide back and forth between gospel and country. In fact, Seats is a decidedly mainstream country CD filled with songs from Nashville's most active songwriters such as the quirky "Hard to Be Cool (In a Minivan)" penned by Rory Lee Feek and Tony Villanueva, and the gospel-tinged "Jonah, Job and Moses" written by Bill Anderson and Tina Silers.

"We opened up our old stomping grounds and we recorded a country album. We wanted to sound like it was on the radio today. We asked for songs that were written by songwriters that write country songs for artists today."

Of course the days of hearing the Oak Ridge Boys on megawatt country radio stations in huge markets such as Dallas are long gone. A slew of new groups have taken their spot on the dial.

Yet Mr. Allen still feels that he and his musical mates are part of the modern country music industry.

"Rascal Flatts ... Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, they all come up to us ... Collin Raye, they all tell us how we influenced them. Little Big Town told us they knew they wanted to sing country music when they heard us do 'Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight.' We hear all of these stories from these people who make us still feel a part of the business, even though we are not at the top of the charts anymore. That's OK. We had our day."

Onstage, the Oaks offer a broad overview of a long, varied career. Naturally, they honor the rich gospel history, which predates the current lineup to the days when the entity was known as the Oak Ridge Quartet. Of course, Mr. Allen and his fellow singers deliver plenty of the country hits; expect to hear "Y'all Come Back Saloon," "Elvira," "Bobbie Sue" and many others.

They also spend some time on the new material, some of which blends gospel with country and bluegrass.

"I feel like we are very fortunate that we have that history; we address it every night, but we don't stay there," Mr. Allen says. "We keep taking people on a new trip. It really begins with us. Do I want to go on a new trip? Yes. We are still excited about finding new songs to sing.

"It's like having a baby. You mine that song for all of the magic in it. You put it out there and see the expression on people's faces. You have a new baby."

After 41 years, it doesn't get old.

"I love to make three minutes of magic," says Mr. Allen. "And it makes no difference if it's at the top of the charts. Does it work for me? You have to make it work for you before you make it work for anybody else. When the people come to see us they get our magic three minutes at a time.

"That's what keeps them coming back. People want to be entertained."

E-mail mtarradell@dallasnews.com

Plan your life

Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at Bass Performance Hall, 555 Commerce St., Fort Worth. $42-$68. 1-877-212-4280, www.basshall.com.

The Oak Ridge Boys - Break My Mind

2007-01-17T11:29:00.001-08:00

The Oak Ridge Boys - The Nolan Ryan Express

2007-01-13T08:42:00.001-08:00

Per 1993. Richard is so cool.

Updates

2007-01-09T06:20:00.000-08:00

I hope you can read this color without getting a headache. This is the closest color I can find that matches what the walls look like in Macie's room.

Most of our time now is getting the house ready for the arrival of our little baby girl, Macie. We have decided for sure now her name will me Macie Jordan Perkins.

Thanks to my father to helped paint the room in record time. Even came over to put a second coat on. What servanthood! Thanks Dad.

Also, I think my mother and wife are getting more excited about the room than they are the actual baby. I can thank my mother for giving Jaime so many ideas that Jaime wants to spend all our housing savings on this room. But, the tab was picked up for x-mas on some things so I can't complain too much.

Maddie is doing great. She is conversing more and more. She loves her big girl bed and still wants to look at kitties on the computer.

Angelo St. made the playoffs this year. I know you don't care.

Christmas 2006

2006-12-26T19:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, to make a long story short, 2006 Christmas had more downs and ups.

First of all Jaime was sick. She got some sort of virus Christmas Eve that put her down for awhile. It was tough on Maddie not being able to see her mother all day, but with the help of other family members, she made it through. Jaime is feeling much better now and she is really uncomfortable in her pregnancy. Makes me realize how lucky I am to be a man.

Second, I had a long night Friday night. After driving from Royse City to Brownwood Friday morning I left from Brownwood that afternoon and arrived in Wichita Falls around 7:00 for a 7:30 Oak Ridge Boys concert. But, when I pulled in the parking lot I noticed something in my car wasn't right. I checked my tires and my rear driver's side was flat. Unable to locate a place to put the jack I drove very slowly around till I found a convenience store and bought some fix-a-flat. Put it in and then made the concert for the 2nd half of it. Drove very slowly back to Brownwood and arrived after 1am. Thanks to my father who talked me through everything. I would have never thought of the fix-a-flat and talking to him settled my nerves as well. I will give a review of the concert at another post.

All in all, Maddie enjoyed it. She behaved for most of the trip and played real good with her cousins. It was nice to see everybody again. Some of Maddie's presents were:

V-tech computer gaming system

Winnie the Pooh computer game

Play vaccuum and broom

Clothes, Clothes, Clothes

Memory Game

Duck game

coloring books

Being the Best

2006-12-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we do things to see if we are good at it. Here are certain things I beleive I am good at, and certain things I could use a little help.

Good:

1) Back when Jeff and I were sophomores at ACU, I believe I was the greatest NHL 95 player in all the world. Whenever we weren't studying, working, or dating, we played this game. It included activating your goalie whenever you feel necessary which led me to 3 straight shutouts with Andy Moog vs. Detroit. That is the highlight of my college career. There was no online play back then, but if there was I doubt there would have been much of a chance for my opponents.

2) Basketball officiating. Although I started off slow, I believe if I started again, I would be in the top 10% of all HS officials in the state of Texas.

3) Coaching basketball. I can pick up everything the other team wants to do within the first 2 minutes of the ballgame. Doesn't mean anything though if you don't have the talent to stop it.

4) Mowing the yard. Lord knows I much experience in this.

5) Driving. Careful and dependable.

6) Handwriting. I believe my handwriting is better than 75% of all men. Also, my father and brother have great handwriting for guys. Jeff on the other hand, is hard to look at. Sorry, Jeff.

7) Kissing. This is what Jaime tells me.

8) My inside out forehand in tennis. When used properly, I am unstoppable.

9) Basketball. I am so much better now than I was 13 years ago.

10) Running long distances. Although I hate it, I am pretty good at it. I will run a marathon sometime in my life.

11) Keeping a good budget and saving money.

Bad:

1) Ironing. Everything about it.

2) Swimming. Deep ends don't put a smile on my face.

3) Doing flowerbeds.

4) Golf. Have totally given up on the expensive sport.

5) Making the bed. Jaime is never satisfied with wrinkly sheets.

6) Taking my time when it comes to eating.

7) Not being in contact with certain friends.

8) Talking on the telephone

9) Singing. Someone who loves to sing, but can't carry tunes that well. My father and brother stole this from me. Evidently, it was stolen from my little sister and certain cousin Jeff knows about.

10) Weight lifting. It takes strength to enjoy this. I am on 9 weeks now of weightlifting. Still can't tell anything.

George Washington - Political Parties

2006-12-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

I usually don't get political on this blog, but when I was teaching this past week over the presidency of George Washington I came across this quote on Washington's farewell address:

"Let me now...warn you...against the harmful effects of the spirit of party...This spirit, unfortunately...exists in different shapes in all governments...but in those of the popular form, it is seen in its greatest tankness and is truly their worst enemy."

Now what Washington was referring to was the continiued bickering between Alexander Hamilton and his Federalists and Jefferson and Madison and their Democratic-Republican Party. Each party hated each other like you wouldn't believe. Here we are starting a new country and all we do is argue with each other. Washington saw this as a major problem that could hurt our country.

Now let's take this to the present. Republicans and Democrats have always had differences. They will always have differences. I have been watching national news more and more to see what spins Fox News and CNN put on their station. It isn't a secret that CNN is pro-democrat and Fox is pro-republican, but the way people are treated is nuts. I have fallen out of favor with Sean Hannity because its either his way or the highway. I watched Hannity and Colmes the other evening and noticed when they went to a commercial break there was a mistake and the cameras didn't pan away from the two guys. They didn't say a single word to each other and looked disgusted to be sitting near the other person. Is Sean Hannity so bad you can't even look at him? I know Alan Colmes looks like he is dying of AIDS, but exchange a nice glance maybe.

Now Jeff may have more to say on this because he is more informed on these matters than I am. Jeff and I have remained really good friends despite being on opposite ends. I can honestly say I am not as far to the right because of him.

To end with a Duane Allen quote, "Why can't we all get along with each other...be a brother...be a friend"

My Christmas Present

2006-12-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

Well, after going to two Oak Ridge Boys concerts in October wasn't enough, I told myself I wouldn't go to the concert in Wichita Falls on Wednesday night, Dec 22nd. But, after checking the website I noticed there was a single ticket located on the first row right in front of Richard Sterban. Couldn't pass up the opportunity. So I called Jaime and she agreed that this would be my Christmas present. I heard "Jesus Was Born Today" is the best song ever to hear in concert. I will post a review of the concert next week.

Things That Irritate Me

2006-12-08T08:49:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I am a pretty laid back and relaxed type of person, but there are a few things that irritate me. Here they are in no particular order:

1) Nuts. Why put them in brownies? Why are they in desserts? They have a horrible taste, smell bad, and you always wonder where those nuts have been.

2) Referees that think they know it all and let you know about it during a basketball game.

3) Students who don't turn in their work on time. It creates more work for me. Plus, what happens when they don't have their work on time in college?

4) Blistering winds out of the north when I am outside, but inside it is pretty cool.

5) Not being able to watch sports in leiu of The Biggest Loser, Survivor, Dancing with the Stars, American Idol.

6) Neighbors who sit outside in 20 degree weather and just sit there and talk while they enjoy their favorite alcoholic beverage. Looks like white trash.

7) Restaurants that don't have large glasses and need to be refilled every 2 minutes.

8) That ice cream is not good for you.

9) The book of Revelations

10) Kenzie running the same route along the fence and leaving a track of dead grass in my back yard.

11) Having to drive the gas guzzling Tribute all the time now instead of the gas saving Civic.

12) Having to park my car outside now.

13) People who comment on how tall I am. I think everyone knew this.

14) People disrespecting the Oak Ridge Boys.

15) People who ridicule me for the way I handle money when they are the ones close to bankrupcy.

16) Rotel in Chicken Spaghetti

17) LBJ freeway

18) People who do everything in their power to take out everything Christian here in America.

19) Long invitation songs at church.

20) When changes to my plans have been changed.

What are some of yours?

Worst ORB Video of All Time

2006-12-06T10:40:00.001-08:00

The 2:45 mark of the video will make you laugh.

Maddie at 29 Months

2006-12-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

Just some observations of my precious daughter:

1) I personally think she is pretty smart. She picks things up real quick. She will even outsmart me sometimes.

2) She likes for someone to be around her at all times. She never wants to play by herself and always enjoys the company of others.

3) She is very sweet. She loves to hug and kiss and show you how much she loves you.

4) She is kinda cute.

5) She will be one fantastic big sister.

6) She can count to 20 and knows her ABC's even before she turned 2.

7) I plan on teaching her the presidents of the US.

Why I Haven't Written in Awhile

2006-12-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

People have been e-mailing and calling me asking why there are no updates on the blog. Well, to be honest, I didn't think that many people read this. I thought only Jeff read it so maybe he could catch up on old nuggets from college. I also seem to have had a loss of what I want to write about. I know I am the only one here that likes ranking Bond movies. I know I am the only one here that loves the Oak Ridge Boys (besides these lucky ladies on the picture above). So, please send me topics or ideas on what you want me to write about.

My New Favorite Bond Movie - Casino Royale

2006-11-18T07:39:00.000-08:00

Jaime and I went to see the movie last night and what a show it was. Casino Royale now rates up there with Goldfinger and From Russia with Love.

Just a note if you want to see a movie this is one to see. Even Jaime enjoyed it. I haven't read a bad review yet, and there is a reason.

Updates and Thoughts

2006-11-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't written in awhile so I will give updates on the Perkins' family.

1) I have been working out with weights for the past 3 weeks. It was real tough at first, but the soreness has been worked out. I work out every other day during a one and a half hour off period in the morning. Trainer's name is Gestapo Gafford. I will let you know if I see a muscle.

2) Our family is strongly considering switching congregations. Eastridge provides us an opportunity to serve closer to home, be involved in the community, and have a smaller and closer church for us to feel like a family.

3) Angelo St. had a pretty good recruiting year this year on whatifsports.com

4) I hope I can say the same thing for Merchant Marine.

5) Jeff Stanglin passed his Texas Bar Exam. Yeah!

6) The Oak Ridge Boys are going to be in Wichita Falls on Dec 22nd for a Christmas concert and I will not be going. I feel like I have been away enough.

7) Jaime is getting more and more pregnant, but you can't tell she is pregnant from the back.

8) Maddie is talking up a storm now. She tells me everything she did at Mimi and Papa's everyday. Her favorite song is the "Train, Train" song by the Oak Ridge Boys.

9) If I were 18 again I would go to Texas A&M and be part of Aggies for Christ.

10) My mom's chicken and rice on the slow cooker is one of my favorite meals.

11) My father now has a weather station. Once we can get it up and running I will post a link on the blog.

12) First game of basketball is 12 days away.

My Texas A&M Weekend

2006-11-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I had the opportunity to sit just 8 rows back of the Oklahoma Sooners at the Texas A&M/Oklahoma football game. This is my 3rd A&M game and it was by far the best experience so far. This game drew the largest crowd in Aggie history as a national television audience witnessed a close game.

I won't go into the game because Coach Fran is a fan of the field goal when down by 7 points and 2 minutes left so I will give you some A&M observations.

1) Very classy fans (except when they do their chant, "Beat the h*ll out of OU"
2) The sits are very narrow. I know this was built in the early 1900s when the average weight of 140, but standing that close to people makes me a bit uncomfortable.
3) Everyone wears maroon.
4) Lee Corso is a short dork.
5) The new 3,000 inch HD tv they have is awesome. I really don't know how big it is.
6) Thanks to the Callaways for allowing me to go with them.
7) I didn't get home till after 3:30am Sunday morning, but I still went to church.
8) Thanks to Jaime and Maddie for letting me go. I will make the same trip this weekend with some buds.

My Oak Ridge Boys Weekend

2006-10-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

I decided 3 months ago when the Oak Ridge Boys were coming to Texas that I needed to go to the shows on Saturday night in Corsicana and Sunday night in McKinney. I called 25 minutes after tickets went on sale in Corsicana and the only seat they had available was the upper balcony, next to last row, in a theatre built in the 1930s. Now most of you know that I am a bit taller than the average man, especially in the 1930s. If you took the end of my seat and put your index finger out, that would be the length to the back of the chair in front of you. I was so uncomfortable I thought about standing to the side. Well, the concert was a success and I loved every moment of it.

But the best night was Sunday night in McKinney. I had a front row seat right in front of Richard Sterban. Now if you don't know about my infatuation with this man, then you don't know me. I literally was within 5 feet of him most of the night. Here are some things I noticed about Richard that you may not know:

1) He looks like he is in his 30s.
2) He never takes a drink of water throughout the concert, even though they have a bottle for him.
3) He likes it when people cheer his low notes.
4) He looked right at me on most of his low notes because he knew he would get a reaction.
5) The guy dresses pretty sharp most of the time.

I got to shake his hand during "Everyday" (One of Gerald's favorites) and Duane's hand after the concert. It was by far the most I have enjoyed a concert. Being that close is something I will never forget. The picture underneath this one there is no zooming involved.

I was a bit farther away in Corsicana.

Texas Stadium Observations

2006-10-24T10:08:00.000-07:00

I will write more about the Oak Ridge Boys concerts in the next one, but I wanted to share with you my experience at Texas Stadium on Monday Night Football.

1) Texas Stadium is old. My goodness it is most older than I thought. The rows are 35 seats deep so if you sit in the middle, getting in and out is impossible.

2) Traffic is terrible. Hardly moves. Thanks to a couple of shortcuts by Frank and some daring driving, we made it in by kickoff.

3) They patted us down. No metal detectors. I could get something through if I wanted. Plus, the line was so long it took 20 minutes to get in once you get to the gate.

4) Alcohol, alcohol, alcohol. I swear most people that go to the game go to just drink. Drunk people make lousy fans. I almost saw several fights break out between Cowboy and Giant fans. Drunk people like to hug you, rub your head, and do things that are only comfortable with your wife.

5) You can't even hear the PA guy (George Dunham) in the stadium.

6) The turf is terrible. I saw wrinkles all over it.

7) People should not put their own names on the back of jerseys.

8) If you are wearing a faded Bill Bates jersey, its time to get a new one.

9) Do not bring your overweight self and your overweight wife and bring your 9 month old twins for a night game. That is only 2 small seats for 4 people.

10) Why go to the game if you are a Giants fan? It's like Sean Hannity going to the Democratic National Convention.

11) All in all I had a blast. Wish the Cowboys could have done something.