tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62404666756378663802012-01-26T23:47:56.375-06:00Birds of a feather blog together.Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.comBlogger3191100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-10845988069132301842011-02-03T17:02:00.003-06:002011-02-03T17:07:27.775-06:00

This could be a sign.I've successfully created a place that I have been committed to for years, and once leaving it for a while it seems that everyone can live without it, including me.So, barring unexpected inspiration, this creative chapter, Betanarrative, is closing. I've considered a new blog, ministerially focused specifically on worship, but there are so many of those I don't want to be

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-21757972913508099342010-12-23T17:46:00.002-06:002010-12-23T17:53:43.946-06:00

The place no one wants to be. Adam told me that once. I think it's true. Either you haven't left for where you want to be, you're waiting in a city you have no business being in otherwise, or you're waiting for someone to take you to your final destination. No one wants to be at the airport. Even still, you shouldn't complain.Today I partook in the miracle of human flight. I'm spending Christmas

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-27318783918015268852010-12-20T22:27:00.003-06:002010-12-20T22:38:33.350-06:00

No, how have you been?I'd say the last few weeks have been busy, but it's just not true. Well, I had one busy week, but that ended. Classes are over for the quarter. I start again with a one-week intensive beginning Jan. 5-8, that's a Wednesday through Saturday, I believe. Pre-marital and marital counseling! I figure I know enough college students that I could likely be a marrying pastor at some

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-13144222594147878942010-12-04T18:30:00.002-06:002010-12-04T18:33:26.892-06:00

Like Venn diagrams? Check out thisisindexed.com.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-125379225719326302010-11-27T15:50:00.004-06:002010-12-10T11:23:45.452-06:00

What type are you? I've been working on tomorrow's worship set for church for the better part of the week. It's been difficult. It usually is for different reasons. This time I can't seem to get straight what I want to say, how I want transitions to go, etc. It's all the stuff people don't really notice, but they don't notice because hours of prep go into it. You never notice when things go

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-69590584723811548992010-11-26T11:49:00.004-06:002010-11-26T12:06:08.240-06:00

Thanksgiving is over.The shopping season is upon us. I want to get my haircut today, but I hate going out on busy days, period. It's not that far, so I'll probably go. And since I'm in a wedding tonight, I really should. This Sunday, after Black Friday, is the first of the season of Advent. What is Advent? The word means "coming." In the Christian tradition it's the four Sundays before Christmas

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-47972216130522540742010-11-22T09:32:00.007-06:002010-11-22T10:08:45.131-06:00

I'll never own a dog. It was a brisk morning. Katie, my beige Corolla, kept me company as we headed off to church. I was greeted along the way by familiar red and green lights, intersections and passers-by. "More leaves have fallen since last week," I thought in pre-determined prose. Squirrel!I saw it, too. But I wasn't the one who wanted to catch it. A black lab, appropriately dressed for the

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-44091297148482397582010-11-20T16:09:00.002-06:002010-11-20T16:33:45.567-06:00

I have a love/hate relationship with suburban life. First, love. I'm fond of having my own place to live, with my own room. I enjoy the comfort of my car, even with all the repairs. I find comfort in feeling safe in my neighborhood. More than almost all the other things, I love showers. Hot showers. Showers that almost burn my skin, but don't. I've heard glorious tales of showers from friends on

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-24228553521251141382010-11-15T14:55:00.003-06:002010-11-15T15:21:42.800-06:00

What is gossip anyway? I have trouble anymore telling the difference between gossip and news. Stories on the news often have little to do with news, and more to do with people. Some shows bypass news altogether, just to talk about people, especially the things that no one should care about. (i.e. TMZ, where for 6 minutes they hemmed and hawed over a celebrity not wearing shoes in a public

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-69929946502609901042010-11-09T08:44:00.004-06:002010-11-09T09:10:14.747-06:00

Living above a funeral home has its surprises.2:15 A.M. I'm startled from my slumber by a ringing phone. Judging by the stark black, it's well into the night, not yet time for the receptionist or director to have made their way to work. Most days I bring a cordless into the room. Four guys who sleep deeply should have as many phones as possible in this business. Each late night call carries its

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-68058059823443668552010-11-08T19:00:00.001-06:002010-11-08T13:52:36.244-06:00

By their very nature, some would say those two words don't belong together. Artists seem to be intrinsically undisciplined. This is easily seen during high school and college years, when studies are shirked for artistic endeavors. I had an assignment during my first year in seminary to log each of my 168 hours for one week. 20 of those were spent playing guitar! Needless to say, I wasn't spending

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-1261156030165979242010-11-05T19:00:00.000-05:002010-11-05T19:00:01.749-05:00

Have you ever read An Awesome Book? You should. Then come back. ...Did it remind you of Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss? For me it's one of those inspiring books that makes you think of how big life is. What is it that kills our creativity? Okay, maybe kills is a strong word. Maims? I remember standing at the kid-check station at my first job at Chuck E. Cheese's for hours at a time. I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-45727663558372623642010-11-05T12:45:00.004-05:002010-11-05T13:27:38.014-05:00

Some of you already love this. You just haven't seen it yet. An Awesome Book of Thanks! by Dallas Clayton

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-52527870613475813522010-11-03T23:35:00.021-05:002010-11-04T15:54:53.709-05:00

Are you one of those artsy types? For those of you who aren't nerds, it's National Novel Writer's Month. I've never participated, mostly because I don't have any desire to write a novel. What exactly is NaNoWriMo? It's an event throughout the month of November each year where hundreds, even thousands of writers become recluse in order to write an entire novel in 30 days' time. Here's the FAQ

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-33758261610816771792010-11-01T09:43:00.006-05:002010-12-10T11:26:23.340-06:00

Women, it's your leg hair's turn to shine.If your response to that comment was somewhere between your stomach and gag reflex, you're in the company of many others who share your cultural expectation that female legs should be shaven.But it's No-Shave November! The only time of year that applauds men for facial laxity. It coincides with the changing season, when the whipping wind increasingly

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-498594278176708702010-10-29T09:48:00.003-05:002010-10-29T10:11:26.334-05:00

Today, I'm gonna:clean my room. Or not.get some groceries. If I get around to it.listen to some music. Unless I want quiet.watch Community and Outsourced. Potentially.call a friend. If I feel compelled.leave things half done. Because it's Friday, and I've been finishing things all week.wear what I want to wear. Without caring if anyone sees me in it.drink this orange juice. (Yum.)enjoy today.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-60544444020979037732010-10-28T23:47:00.003-05:002010-10-28T23:59:50.796-05:00

Not that I anticipate this being a regular occurrence. Soul City Church is opening up on the North Side of Chicago. I thought the site looked really snazzy for a start-up church. I mean, I thought our site was nice for a plant. And I still do, because it is. But there is definitely a generational difference between the graphics and methods used. (i.e. text vs. video as primary communicators.)

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-46845985351625922132010-10-27T14:12:00.004-05:002010-10-27T14:23:23.921-05:00

I have an amazing body.The wind is blowing frenetically outside for more than a day now, but I haven't felt it. I have been inside, recovering from a fantastical bout of food poisoning. Thankfully, I'm feeling much better, though I think my stomach muscles are tense due to the violent uploading of my innards.It all started Monday afternoon. I went to a certain, unnamed restaurant, that also

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-38884019570909333372010-10-25T18:12:00.003-05:002010-10-25T18:28:59.113-05:00

You know, it's true what they say.The older you get, the less you see your birthday coming. It's no longer the frame that you fit your day into. It slowly becomes one of the pieces in the frame of any other day. That frame for me was spent driving to Ohio for a friend's wedding. Thankfully we fit a joyous birthday picture into that frame. A couple of friends and I made the trip out to Ashtabula,

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-33354020341443377512010-10-21T22:38:00.006-05:002010-10-22T00:16:16.006-05:00

What is it about a good haircut that makes me feel, well, sexy?Is it the conversation? Every time I get my haircut there's always conversation. Maybe because, as John says, I'm a conversation whore. That's pretty much entirely true. But usually the stylist (Yes, stylist. I would have it no other way.) asks questions about me to prevent awkward silence, so I just talk about myself. In the words

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-62089917218278666752010-10-20T22:08:00.003-05:002010-10-20T22:11:43.230-05:00

I had something substantial to say, but my brain's tired. So instead, you should check out Gungor, a creative and inspiring band. Seriously. I'm inspired. Thanks to Madison at Through Eyes Wide Open for your post!

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-15982975950886541042010-10-19T18:29:00.003-05:002010-10-19T18:36:51.272-05:00

I may have lied a little. Today I lifted a comment from a conversation in an online class. After posting it on my Facebook I got several responses from excited to upset, all undeserved.My bad.See, we were talking about organizations and churches, and I was posing a question: When is it time to let one die? As the conversation went back and forth, a classmate said, "No one's out there writing a

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-41801538428716964162010-10-18T20:28:00.002-05:002010-10-18T20:31:15.524-05:00

I saw this video on Amber from Hope, Coffee, Melody's Facebook.Enjoy!

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-80586273509426634062010-10-18T19:59:00.006-05:002010-10-18T20:28:03.448-05:00

I couldn't hear it make a sound.Under the light of my desk lamp, between it and my open bible, I saw a fly. Not a housefly, but some sort of flying insect. It was tiny and brown, with quick little wings. It flew rather well. The lone light in the room beckoned it, and as the fly would meet the siren, it would quickly bounce away; the landing was too hot to handle. I saw the fly. Oddly, I couldn't

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-22342306891680647992010-10-16T17:56:00.003-05:002010-10-16T18:15:43.155-05:00

Ever feel like you could be doing more?Not in a day-to-day sense. I'm sure many of us feel like we could be involved more, serving more, loving more. Then again, we may want to do less. And sleep more. After 5 hours, I'd like to sleep more.Oh yeah. A long-time friend got me thinking. She has had one blog for a long time. It began as a personal blog with all sorts of vulnerability and life lessons

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-68387337833500807862010-10-15T08:53:00.003-05:002010-10-15T09:28:08.656-05:00

God, the HeroThat's what my duct tape bible has penned next to Psalm 116. The psalm reminds me of an epic comic book. I can see it all happening in vivid inks and graphic squares. It makes me wonder what the melody to this one was, since all the Psalms are just lyrics of songs. It was probably epic. Like the theme from Pirates of the Caribbean. Toward the end, I came across this little gem: "I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-91880409681367370222010-10-14T10:56:00.006-05:002010-10-14T11:22:00.152-05:00

Instead of learning it, I'm teaching it.You'd think after reading the Bible pretty consistently for 10 years or so, I could do this pretty well. Turns out, it's really difficult. There's an overarching theme, main characters, subplots, twists and resolution. It's like any other story. On the other hand, it's huge and overwhelming, and if I spout off at the mouth about what I think any "green

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-33268606300601069502010-10-13T09:31:00.008-05:002010-10-13T10:01:50.875-05:00

Growing up changes things.Or maybe it's growing up American. I'm not sure, because I've never grown up anything else. Maybe if I grew up African, South American, Japanese or French I wouldn't have exchanged creativity for efficiency and process.I used to breathe worship. My last couple years in high school and two in community college prepared the way for three years of undergrad as a Worship

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-39971176640847676122010-10-12T11:57:00.004-05:002010-10-12T12:06:04.596-05:00

I blame my roommates. I've never been much for TV. Maybe it's because it separates us from real people. I know I have trouble paying attention to anyone or anything when there's anything on it, probably because of the moving pictures SQUIRRELHowever, I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Not thinking about TV, just thinking. And when I need a break from thinking? I've found TV a helpful

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-22091741865312913852010-10-09T19:17:00.010-05:002010-10-09T20:04:24.454-05:00

We could feel the burn.Somewhere during the 10th mile, the hill gone unnoticed on the way out became a monster obstacle to our return. I never thought it possible, but the mountain climbed straight into the sun. The sun that stared me down.Right into my will. "Everything in the darkness will be made light." I've found its truth. Be it the light of God or the light of day illuminating, it holds

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-60594677967979730202010-10-01T09:51:00.003-05:002010-10-01T10:32:02.501-05:00

Few things are sad as a dying dream.It's a fading star. A slowly detuning violin. A comedian who gets a soft smile, but never a laugh. It's the reality that reality is reality.I signed up for the Prairie State Half-Marathon 10 weeks ago. I was spitting into my own face. "Future disciplined" me was hocking a giant loogie at "I don't have to work hard for anything, and you can't make me" me. I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-49735730490146388072010-09-27T16:44:00.005-05:002010-09-27T16:46:58.408-05:00

Amazing what a missing apostrophe can do.Half-marathon update: Oct 9 is the day. I still haven't found anyone to cover my morning shift at work.Also, I'm behind in my training. I've run as far as 8 miles, but I've been way too inconsistent. Apparently I don't have this discipline thing down quite yet. I am doing well at a lot of other things, but this one's buggering me down. Anyone out there

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-88401905792333393382010-09-25T18:23:00.007-05:002010-09-25T18:54:51.489-05:00

I know how to go through a buffet.When I was little, I thought I knew how to do the buffet. You see what you want, you take some, and then you move on to the next thing you want, right? Sort of.If you see some good salad or pasta or soup or processed over-salted meat product, and you get a good amount like a normal meal, you'll fail. You can't get just as much of everything as you always do;

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-15236838759537503312010-09-17T13:33:00.003-05:002010-09-17T13:52:49.710-05:00

It's my new favorite topic.Maybe it's because I'm a poster child. I mean, who doesn't want to feel like they're on the crest of a trend? Unfortunately, by virtue of surfing this wave, it means I live in the trough of uncertainty that comes with life as an emerging adult. That, my friends, is irony. If you're not caught up on the topic, here's a very helpful article from the New York Times. (It's

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-71942287166336933092010-09-14T22:50:00.003-05:002010-09-14T23:17:26.566-05:00

Nothing so disappointing. One of the only negative memories I have from my undergrad is a certain class I took. Surprisingly, it was a leadership class. I swear the entire course could have been taught in a weekend, and I'm sure I still wouldn't have remembered anything. In the professor's defense, it was his first time teaching it. I think it'd been thrown at him and I heard it got way better in

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-30584837929365830402010-09-13T16:16:00.003-05:002010-09-13T16:35:15.523-05:00

It certainly does take a lot of time.In a recent conversation I was made aware of my desire to prioritize things I value. I'm generally not one to plan ahead. However, some things are worth it. For instance: mentoring and pastoral meetings. Last week I spent about 6 hours in one-on-one situations with college students, many connected to my church, some not. It was all great. Beforehand I made

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-3987712604051802932010-09-07T12:43:00.002-05:002010-09-07T12:49:14.561-05:00

A euphemism for a porta-potty? That, or Starbucks, where I am spending a few hours today with my new computer! I'm excited that I finally have something, and not just anything... it's a MacBook Pro! I got an amazing deal on Craig's List, although the disk drive is a little sketch. But for what I paid, something had to go wrong. The software is running beautifully.Anyhow, I'm at the Sbux working

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-868162120264518972010-09-01T00:10:00.005-05:002010-09-01T00:55:09.359-05:00

How would I describe it?To one friend, I described the effect of Madi Diaz's voice thusly:"When she hit those high notes, they're so warm and invasive they rose up to the frozen ceiling of my heart, a part I didn't even know was there, and warmed it; and now that part loves, too."Hyperbole? Perhaps. Even still, after seeing this performer for the second time, the first being the Ten Out of Tenn

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-755813662663609322010-08-30T22:13:00.004-05:002010-08-30T22:20:30.071-05:00

Today for the first timeI saw the road as a runnerWhat was once a four-mile eternitySegmented into digestable portionsI believed it was a level trackCircling the basketball courtLevel from start to finishEven in difficulty; level in planeFalse.The first half? All uphill.The second half? All downhill.The end? Back uphill.There's a rhythm.That's why I died after two miles?That's why after a quick

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-79985379991742672112010-08-24T09:55:00.002-05:002010-08-24T09:59:07.237-05:00

I've held out as long as I could.This is possibly the last time I'll use my laptop, considering the screen is almost dead. I thought about getting an external monitor and keeping it alive, but I can't even run music without it skipping and jumping all over. So, I think it's time for a new computer.Here's what I would like:InternetiTunesDVD PlayerWordExternal speakersSupports Logos softwareThat's

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-9465523551766169792010-08-21T21:43:00.002-05:002010-08-21T21:47:49.414-05:00

"I have no idea to this day what them two Italian ladies were singin' about. Truth is, I don't want to know. Some things are best left unsaid. I like to think they were singin' about something so beautiful it can't be expressed in words..." - Red, Shawshank RedemptionOn a strange impulse I wandered across my lawn to the church next door. I've never noticed all the cars on a Saturday night, but

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-3985664229962688982010-08-17T22:35:00.004-05:002010-08-17T22:41:52.180-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of bringing one of our church kids down from a small tantrum.He had forgotten to feed the fish, so his mom said she’d do it. “But I want to feed my fish!” I was offered the chance to field the situation, which I, of course, had to do. I knocked softly and entered the darkened room, sat behind the slightly cracked door, and with just enough light to discern the outline

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-85788115752594182732010-08-17T22:32:00.002-05:002010-08-17T22:35:38.977-05:00

I really don't want to buy a new one.My laptop decided the screen didn't want to work anymore. But if it sits in one position, and I don't move it, it's fine. So, it's now a desktop. Then my wireless thing stopped picking up the internet. It would know the router was there, but that's it. Weird. Then EVERYTHING went really, really slowly. Like, almost comatose. So, I restored to some time in the

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-58920531111518707842010-08-05T21:32:00.006-05:002010-08-05T21:49:49.687-05:00

At least one is what you think it is. I've been running, training for the half-marathon in October. It's been mostly good, but I haven't kept a consistent schedule, which I think supports my "I don't try really hard and still do good at most things" mentality. I'm working at being more disciplined. It's funny that people would probably think I run because I'm disciplined, but really I run to be

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-58400922470404309242010-07-28T17:25:00.007-05:002010-07-28T18:19:26.942-05:00

Welcome to the interwebz version of the OB/GYN, where you get to see my thoughts on participative worship in utero.(The thoughts are in utero, not the worship.)Worship Leader surprised me this month! Their July/August issue, Return of the Folk, is actually really helpful, and talks about things I care about, namely participation in worship. The very first article mentioned the exact same things I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-25078233626925813992010-07-23T16:13:00.006-05:002010-07-23T16:30:35.699-05:00

Who says an oil change isn't eventful?In an effort to save time I went to Jiffy Lube instead of TJ Discount Auto to get my oil changed. I feel like I cheated on TJ, but I won't have to deal with that until he sees the new oil change sticker inside my windshield next time I go. 3,000 miles of smooth sailing. I was surprised at the hospitality I got today. They treated me kindly, called me by name

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-16472300829762924472010-07-22T13:01:00.006-05:002010-07-22T13:54:05.119-05:00

Who are the prophets among us?My entire life I have been intrigued by the prophetic role. As a high schooler I remember listening to a homily during mass, reflecting on these words of Jeremiah:But if I say, "I will not mention him or speak any more in his name," his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-41153666157479940032010-07-20T15:06:00.003-05:002010-07-20T15:21:53.952-05:00

Words.We use them constantly, every day. If we're not speaking them or reading them, we most often think by way of them. Our language has formed our thoughts, and we have trouble thinking about what we can't put into words. Those thoughts are echoes of an idea, bouncing off distant walls, reaching us in faint waves, barely perceived. But the thoughts we do understand, perceive and communicate

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-6021178334832387672010-07-15T13:14:00.011-05:002010-07-16T11:38:57.618-05:00

We were both drained.And as we sat talking, I noted that The Machine was stealing our joy.The Machine does not live.The Machine has no brain.The Machine commands its tasks, all it has done, all it knows.The Machine needs no input.The Machine is efficient, with replaceable parts. (Thank you, Henry Ford.)The Machine requires maintenance. Not love, creativity, warmth.The Machine was stealing our

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-78899896524288793662010-07-14T22:27:00.002-05:002010-07-14T22:42:29.155-05:00

What if we...spent an entire church year telling the story of God, hitting the highlights each week?supplemented that with short sermonettes, in case someone misses a week?translated those into Spanish for those who need a resource?added a list of resources on each theme? (audio, video, technological, experiential, print, etc.)used different media/art to illustrate the plot development?planned

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-44155522510613757102010-07-12T22:30:00.002-05:002010-07-12T22:33:54.669-05:00

I ran two miles today, I think for the first time ever.After about a mile of running/talking to God, I thought:"I'm almost half-way done, and I still have a lot more to say. I'm gonna need to run a lot farther if I want to say everything I want to say, because at the end, I still want time to listen."That's motivation.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-30328801329520046672010-07-10T17:13:00.003-05:002010-07-10T17:28:16.549-05:00

I went to my job today.After almost 8 hours of sleep I snoozed my alarm twice before climbing out and heading to the bathroom only to realize I didn't have time for a shower. No problem. I have thick clothes.I headed off to my job to serve tables, run food, clean trays and make money. It was a good day, overall. Pastor John came and ate and we talked about sermons and life, and that was

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-33161461326799176412010-07-07T21:32:00.003-05:002010-07-07T21:47:00.133-05:00

Tonight, I ran.Five laps around the pond of my backyard. I figure that's about 1 mile. A good impulse run to work out some of the caffeine of my quadruple espresso. Hours later my fingers still jitter above the keys.Tonight, I ran.Lap 1. Let's keep a slow pace. I guess I'll run one, walk one, run two, walk one. That'll be good. I wonder if those guys fishing are going to catch anything.Tonight, I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-52999737901297078372010-07-07T19:18:00.004-05:002010-07-07T19:52:46.563-05:00

I finally read the book.My friends said, "Well, if you gave her a copy you'd better read it so you can talk about it. So, in two sittings I read the whole things. It was really good! I loved the analogy of story and life, and how Miller's conversational writing turned the pages for me.It really got me thinking, about my life, and the story I'm living. I avoid any conflict, any pain - even good

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-83583622983286333142010-07-03T17:45:00.002-05:002010-07-03T17:54:37.833-05:00

This commercial made me laugh:Mostly because, well, I called it. (see For Girls, #8)

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-68501029892307359192010-07-01T16:02:00.005-05:002010-07-01T21:13:42.660-05:00

And that's what you're here to read, right?Here's a story by one of my longest-time friends from Florida. I laughed quite a bit at this ages-old memory. I doubt anyone can enjoy it as much as I did.But I'm biased.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-90648607067018785172010-06-28T12:39:00.006-05:002010-06-28T12:50:17.854-05:00

It's a rather odd place for a book.But there it was. I discovered it while helping some friends move out of a familiar building.What struck me about this particular find wasn't the book itself. Rather, it was the conversation I shared with my roommate about it.Me: "That's weird."Jon: "I know, right? That book's, what, maybe 200 pages, and it's supposed to be a Tolkien Reader?"Me: "Huh?"Jon: "

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-21743441632307117152010-06-24T16:10:00.003-05:002010-06-24T16:36:11.515-05:00

Somehow I made my way to the lake.It was that kind of dark that makes you wonder who's creepin' on ya; it isn't foggy, but it feels foggy. My feet carried me this way, then that, and ended at the place where I stood weeks ago, peering over the water. Only now, the place where I stood stands under a few feet of water. It's amazing what a month of rain can do.I cast my eyes skyward to meet the

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-56147081717150864382010-06-22T11:28:00.006-05:002010-06-22T11:53:38.939-05:00

Nothing's changed.[text conversation]Me: Where/when u guys ballin today?Doug: Gordon Park in Lagrange... why whats up[end transmission]I've never been pegged as a sports guy. Despite my four years of soccer, two of basketball, one of bowling, and winning the middle-ball semi-finals for our team in 6th grade, no one will ever put me and sports together.That's why Doug had no clue I was asking to

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-41179205415555883172010-06-21T08:24:00.007-05:002010-06-21T09:07:11.452-05:00

Welcome to the first day of summer, the longest day of the year.It's a welcome sight, really. Spring is through, which makes me think we'll have consistently hot weather. Last year, Summer seemed to miss Chicago. Honestly, I didn't mind. Who really wants 90+ degree weather all the time, anyway? Not me.I spent the first waking hour of summer in my new favorite place: the patio of our apartment.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-26302668113185074572010-06-18T10:32:00.005-05:002010-06-18T10:52:45.909-05:00

Do you find that true in your life?I'd be hard pressed to find one time in my life where I didn't want some type of mentor. Someone to help me get from here to there in music, knowledge, faith, skill, worship leading, exercise, or something else. I've been blessed to have some of those relationships in the past, and look forward to more in the future.But the reality for many people is they never

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-80674603229978806772010-06-16T09:28:00.005-05:002010-06-16T10:02:27.652-05:00

Acts 8 tells the story of Simon the Sorcerer.I admit, every time I hear of this bible character my mind goes to Tim the Enchanter from Monty Python's Holy Grail. And then I start yelling, "Bring me a shrubbery!"But no one ever does.I read Simon's story through the lens of discipleship. That subject has been on my heart lately, which is why I'm reading Acts. I figure the book that talks about the

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-81287708564129983252010-06-15T17:10:00.005-05:002010-06-16T09:25:44.524-05:00

I was surprised how much I felt it.As I returned the vacuum to the hall, walked back and closed the curtains for the last time, my heart sank a little deeper into my chest. This had been my home for three years. And it was ending.My life didn't flash before my eyes, but my life in the seminary apartments did. I lived in three different apartments in three different years, with plenty of different

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-83797297337399394072010-06-15T17:08:00.002-05:002010-06-15T17:10:00.838-05:00

Summer!I've had the same design since the start of the year, and it was nice and dark for winter. But now that summer's hit, I figure I should match the outdoors with this new template design, provided by Blogger.Great job, y'all.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-43782882425013213142010-06-14T18:55:00.004-05:002010-06-14T19:06:00.685-05:00

I'm two for two.I had Donald Miller's book A Million Miles in a Thousand Years recommended to me by three different people. I figured I'd better check it out.I went to Family Christian on the 8th and picked up a copy. I read about 4 pages and lent it to a friend. I don't plan on getting it back. I heard once that if you want someone to read a book, you should "loan" it to them so they feel the

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-42546023405419907412010-06-11T12:54:00.002-05:002010-06-11T12:58:42.348-05:00

I have neglected you.My lack of writing has, in the past, been due to a lack of what to say. A drought of ideas. A feeling that I have nothing to add to the internet, or to the reader. And so I abstain.Not this time.The past week, since classes ended, my mind has been a whirl. And were I to post just one line for each thought I've scribbled hastily in my journal, I would post more than you would

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-11822653430340666512010-05-26T09:30:00.002-05:002010-05-26T09:32:57.331-05:00

It's that time again.Finals are right around the corner. The best part is that I'll be done with classes. That'll probably lead to playing more music and blogging more. Creative stuff, ya know?After these classes are done, I only have SIX more. That's it. And my CPE internship. But, man. It's so close, I can taste it. And it's sweet. Like Fun-Dip.The other week I had a pack of taco seasoning in

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-29297566229419264902010-05-24T10:08:00.002-05:002010-05-24T10:11:01.084-05:00

Last week I watched the news.It was depressing.This week I saw this.I'm just confused.Help?

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-78417585319953049872010-05-22T10:17:00.003-05:002010-05-22T10:28:03.612-05:00

I'd leave it somewhere, and then get it when it's full.Brilliant!I was journaling* this morning. Once I had finished, I flipped back to the front and noticed the first page - the one where I put my name and address in case I lost my journal."I hope someone would send it back," I thought. "Maybe they could read it first and send it back." Yep, that's what I thought. I write as if someone else is

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-31758317952928223262010-05-17T14:34:00.002-05:002010-05-17T14:39:42.738-05:00

"That must have been an accident."So I thought.But I kept watching. And as my eyes focused on the car in front of me, I could see it was with pure intent that the greasy box once containing a burger was tossed out the window.How could I be so sure?Simple. As we kept driving down the single-lane stretch of construction, I saw the driver toss the fry wrapper out the window. Then the soda cup! The

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-48840499253544121232010-05-08T12:29:00.001-05:002010-05-08T12:30:38.881-05:00

I wrote this up for my church's blog today. Enjoy!If praying is like breathing, I have prayer asthma. Sometimes I breathe just fine. I can stretch out my arms, open my mouth wide, and breathe in the goodness of the world. But sometimes, in certain seasons, I'm coughing, weezing, gasping. Can you relate? I've been gasping lately. In fact, several people I know have. Not only gasping for breath

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-17085334058879932802010-05-07T09:49:00.001-05:002010-05-07T09:50:40.402-05:00

Has anyone used Blogger to post videos?I'm trying to upload one and it's taking forever to "process". More than 12 hours, in fact. It's an .mp4 file, so it should be compressed reasonably.Any experience out there?

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-43714953342201407952010-05-03T16:10:00.003-05:002010-05-03T16:13:31.040-05:00

We are!Because in about a month, my roommates and I will be moving into the upstairs apartment of a funeral home.Seriously. This is not a joke.John knows a guy who lives there now, but his wife and he are moving out. So, vacant apartment, two blocks away, twice as big? And the price is much better than our current situation.So, soon and very soon, we are going to live upstairs of dead

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-12492938781614226762010-05-01T10:09:00.004-05:002010-05-01T10:34:15.575-05:00

What's with all the chapter/verse stuff?One of the best parts of my seminary education is learning to look beyond chapter/verse markings in Scripture to try and make connections.The crazy thing is that connecting the dots this morning is better attributed to the work of Andrew Peterson than my efforts at school.I've been working at Romans 12:2, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-43941113165851119632010-04-30T15:51:00.004-05:002010-04-30T16:09:24.570-05:00

I've got a lot to offer.The Inciting IncidentI met a student at Trinity last week, a friend of a friend. We'll call her MJ. (Mostly because I'm watching Spider-Man.)MJ: "I'm going to lead worship for the youth group at my church, and I have no idea what I'm doing!"DL: "Well, if you need any help or insight, that's kinda what I've done for the past 8 years or so. I was a worship arts major, and

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-15930415487838144172010-04-29T14:28:00.003-05:002010-04-29T14:39:25.802-05:00

Or... "My Life Feels Plain"Yesterday, while reading The Making of a Leader, I had words put to what I have suspected for a while.I am a plateaued leader.It happens to everyone at different stages. I guess I've hit mine. I feel like I'm not getting any better at, well, anything.Again, this sounds so much more depressing than it actually is. Don't worry, I'm emotionally stable, and everything's

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-34430561173350642712010-04-28T12:17:00.003-05:002010-04-28T12:25:48.423-05:00

I'm joining many of you.I'm glad to be. I know many of those who read this blog are in transition. I never realized it, but it's true. I don't know if it's the stage of life we're in, or maybe I attract transient folk. But there is transition in most people's lives.Is it in mine?Lately I've had this unsettling feeling of being, well, unsettled. It's not an emotional unsettling; I'm not worried

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-60380138200904396542010-04-27T10:09:00.004-05:002010-04-27T10:28:47.088-05:00

I'm not obsessed.Really, I'm not. If I were obsessed, I'd be thinking about it all the time. But I don't. Just occasionally. Or even often.But I think about it enough. Just enough, in fact, that I start to take the matter into my own hands.At least I try.The reality is, I'm just taking it into my own mind. The actual isn't meeting up with my ideal. In my head, my situation will change the more

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-11212709406831081322010-04-26T22:08:00.002-05:002010-04-26T22:18:54.382-05:00

So continues the saga.I was made aware that my last post regarding my voice sounded a little more dismal than I intended. So, let me explain.A part of my identity has been lost, in a way. It's part of my occupational identity; who I am because of what I do. It's like how I'm not Catholic anymore. It was such a part of me that there's a gap now that I'm not it. Now, I hope to sing again, so it's

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-75867891812477075562010-04-24T01:14:00.003-05:002010-04-24T01:16:32.077-05:00

Her: Can you break a twenty?Me: Sure as you can break a heart.She smiles, thinking she heard me right, but not wanting to seem arrogant.Her: Excuse me?I act disinterested.Me: I can definitely break your twenty.She goes back to Iowa.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-86720481426082921992010-04-20T14:47:00.002-05:002010-04-20T14:56:31.095-05:00

It's been a month.Maybe not exactly a month, but about. I've been without a voice for that long. I can speak fine, but singing is still a problem. I'm sure it doesn't help that I have a job where I need to incessantly talk over people, and that my recent cold has left me with a present case of bronchitis.Feels like forever.I've slowly been coming to terms with this fact:I derive much of my

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-30371588786432260462010-04-16T14:25:00.003-05:002010-04-16T14:28:26.567-05:00

You've already seen my classes.Yesterday, as I was running (be impressed), I considered my classes. And I thought, "Man. This is a lot of theoretical going on."Then I sat at Starbucks with some friends from school, and we talked about life and faith. And I thought, "Man, this is great."And it was on my run that I put the two together. And I thought, "I need the people in my community to help me

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-64206439528414405362010-04-14T22:58:00.002-05:002010-04-14T23:01:00.692-05:00

Dear Internet,Hello. I know we spend a lot of time together, and I never really talk to you. How are you?I have to admit, I'm writing with an agenda. I know you have a lot of blogs, and you probably can't even keep track of all of them, but there's one by my friend Erin that's been neglected for a bit. I was just wondering if you knew anything bout that.Let me know if you can help. I'd appreciate

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-30732691611073393172010-04-13T15:41:00.003-05:002010-04-13T15:47:35.531-05:00

I've begun the new quarter!- He writes, with an exclamation point. -Yes, that was intentional. And no, it wasn't sarcastic, though many would likely expect that after last quarter. Why? I'll tell you.A few weeks ago, I was ready, so ready to be done. I wanted to be finished with school and never do it again. Just get me out of here. But now, I'm rather enjoying it. I think it's because I enjoy

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-3097135187384855402010-04-06T11:54:00.004-05:002010-04-06T12:04:12.192-05:00

Who doesn't like to be the go-to guy?For me, it's been a strange few years. And I seem to be the go-to guy for disengaged couples. For those of you who know my story, this is probably no surprise. For those who don't, Surprise! I was once engaged.Recently, yet another friend joined Club Disengaged. We are many in number, more than I thought there would be. But each person seems to be better off

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-86507796187659427422010-04-03T10:33:00.002-05:002010-04-03T10:42:05.542-05:00

I've been thinking about this day since I woke up.Holy Saturday is often forgotten. Jesus didn't die today. He didn't rise today. Nothing noteworthy seems to have happened. But still, I can't help but think a few scattered thoughts, and scribble them down quickly before scampering to work.Is it better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?I see the disciples asking a question

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-38779209833888987692010-03-31T09:16:00.002-05:002010-03-31T09:19:36.418-05:00

It's my 250th post, and I've never, ever written about exercise.That's because I don't do it much. It's one of those things that sounds nice, but in reality... well, it is nice. I just don't do it often.Yesterday I went running for the first time in 6 months or so. Part of that is certainly due to the weather not being suitable for running. I bought new shoes last week and everything, just so I

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-70428136509509703432010-03-30T10:18:00.001-05:002010-03-30T10:19:57.633-05:00

Here's a short essay for a scholarship application. It's on my favorite subject: Me. ;)Following Jesus.When I think of my call, and my goals for my life of ministry, those are the two words that come to mind. The voice of the writer inside of me yells, “That’s cliché!” But I like to remind the writer that the most resounding truth is never cliché, as long as it is well-supported.It's been 10

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-12271139487714458872010-03-29T16:35:00.003-05:002010-03-29T16:59:30.165-05:00

You don't know what you got 'til it's gone.It's true.I sing.A lot.I'm in a band. I lead worship at church. I yell out random choruses during my work day to help the time pass. I sing when I'm frustrated. I sing when I'm excited. I just like to sing all the time.I sing.I used to sing.Just like any muscles, the vocal chords don't react well to abuse. I suspect mine are reacting to poor treatment,

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-30946556997760474572010-03-23T18:11:00.002-05:002010-03-23T18:16:59.618-05:00

Turns out I have trouble with choices.I went to Express one day to buy a shirt. I found a design I liked, and a color. But there were three different "cuts." Overwhelmed by the choices, I didn't buy any.I get into reading moods. I'll look at my bookshelf and see plenty of great books. But since I can't decide which one to read, I don't read any.I have a week's worth of Spring break. I had almost

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-27252818171489211142010-03-11T11:40:00.003-06:002010-03-11T11:42:48.758-06:00

Okay, so it's only been a week since last post.But, seriously?I was doing so well!Erin, I need you.I need the indwelling sense of pride you give me.I need the irrational motivation to scribble random thoughts before bed.I need the panic of waking up, thinking, "Did I blog yesterday???"Without you, I forget. Or remember, but to no end.An actual post might come later today, depending on how much

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-52130734121630402342010-03-04T13:51:00.002-06:002010-03-04T13:55:18.208-06:00

Yay for roommates!A couple weeks ago one of my roomies totaled his car. That sucked for him.Thankfully, there are three of us, with three cars. Well, two cars. But we're making do quite well. Sometimes I loan my car to my uncarred roomie, and sometimes I borrow the other's car. It all works out nice and smooth.I wonder how things would be if we did that with all of life. Like, if your neighbor

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-87609628313012588682010-02-27T18:47:00.003-06:002010-02-27T18:48:28.560-06:00

1. In my room.2. On my couch.3. In the kitchen.4. In my apartment building.5. The Thai food place on Roosevelt.6. On my blog.

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-19266530662422702482010-02-26T12:03:00.002-06:002010-02-26T12:08:35.840-06:00

Who loves grocery shopping?I don't.However, I recently realized my financial situation, and I have to prioritize it again.Any strategies you guys use? I'm sure planning ahead is key. But uh...Help?

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-26516507191303369452010-02-24T21:03:00.002-06:002010-02-24T21:08:38.632-06:00

I am so upset right now. Every once in a while, I suspect a serious amount of hidden agenda on American Idol. Tonight's one of those nights. Arguably the best performance of the night (definitely top 2, next to Casey James) was Andrew Garcia. Did you see it? Good night. It was so good. He reminds me of Israel Houghton a ton, but in a good way. Anyway, they basically said it wasn't good enough,

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-58386755328128354782010-02-23T10:34:00.001-06:002010-02-23T10:34:11.670-06:00

What's another word for nerdy amazingness?VisualThesaurus.comI'm not going to explain it. I'll just let you see it. Unfortunately, you have to subscribe if you want to use it a lot. But it'll let you play with a couple words. Float the arrow over the dots and such. It's pretty sweet.Go, word-smiths, go! Blogged with the Flock Browser

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-71718119192680981422010-02-22T13:48:00.003-06:002010-02-22T13:50:04.435-06:00

Me: I don't know what to blog about.Grant: Write about how you have to preach your sermon today.: I've already done something like that.: Write about how you haven't read your books, so your assignment is going to be 2 1/2 weeks late. Or write about how you're behind in your pastoral care class. : Ok, now I just feel bad about myself.: Write about how you're pooping.Roommates are helpful for

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-81595128115703994452010-02-20T01:01:00.004-06:002010-02-20T01:14:50.330-06:00

So. Good.Alright, I know I've already talked this guy up before, but seriously? He's just good.I got the new album in from across the pond, and oh my goodness. It's like importing a fine wine, or a delectable chocolate. As I worked today, all I wanted to do was leave, so I could listen to the album again.So I came home. I grabbed my computer. I sat on the couch.And I watched George Lopez?Is my

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-45381370139169214522010-02-19T11:06:00.003-06:002010-02-19T11:09:51.227-06:00

Does anyone have moral dilemmas anymore?I've spoken with some people, Christians, regarding money that goes to the government. There is this pervasive sense that "the government screws us over, so I'm gonna get what I can."That doesn't fly with me.Sure, the government may screw us over. But we've signed up to live here. We've got a choice not to.And then there are insurance companies. They screw

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240466675637866380.post-58694221491148474962010-02-18T10:14:00.004-06:002010-02-18T10:22:14.866-06:00

This and every Friday for the next 6 weeks: All you can eat fish.Having grown up Catholic (and leaving with no bad taste in my mouth), I am familiar with fasting from meat on Fridays during Lent. It's a small act of sacrifice and mindfulness about the season we're in.Certainly sacrificing meat for a day isn't a big deal. Well, unless you're a carnivore. Like me. I don't think a meal really counts

Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08723390116868166355noreply@blogger.com3