The Laffoon's leave tomorrow morning for our Celebrate Your Family event at Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City Michigan. This wonderful experience is a chance for families to get away together, have some fun and laugh, learn and love together.
Our special guest is comedian Joby Saad. Joby is sure to be a hit with family members of all ages!
Celebrate Your Family is only one way to make great family memories. Tell us ways you Celebrate YOUR family!
Blessings~
J & L
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Enchanted
Well it's been a great holiday weekend so far. We had a terrific Thanksgiving day, with the exception of the Lions game of course. The food was scrumptious and I didn't over eat which is a good thing.
The Christmas decorations are now hung in the Laffoon household and yes Laura got in her shopping...BUT the highlight of my weekend took place yesterday when I took Grace to see Disney's "Enchanted". It was fantastic!
Grace and Daddy are not shoppers, so while mom and Torrey scour the mall for deals, we go out for "date" of lunch and a movie. The first time we did this was when she was very small and we went to see "Monsters Inc." she climbed in my lap for that movie. This time it was just her head on my shoulder and her hand in mine.
If you don't like hokey, predictable, feel good movies then don't go. If however you believe love is the most powerful thing on the planet and that dreams do come true, then grab someone you love and get to that movie...you'll leave loving them even more.
It isn't often you leave a movie seeing couples arm in arm kissing and laughing, but you will after this one. It isn't often that a movie makes me so happy that I get misty, but this one did. It isn't often that a movie so closely reflects real life, but this movie which is set between childhood fantasy and real adult love, clearly reflects where my 10 year old Gracie is...still a child but equally a blossoming woman...
Gotta go, I don't want Laura to see me "misty eyed"~
Jay
The Christmas decorations are now hung in the Laffoon household and yes Laura got in her shopping...BUT the highlight of my weekend took place yesterday when I took Grace to see Disney's "Enchanted". It was fantastic!
Grace and Daddy are not shoppers, so while mom and Torrey scour the mall for deals, we go out for "date" of lunch and a movie. The first time we did this was when she was very small and we went to see "Monsters Inc." she climbed in my lap for that movie. This time it was just her head on my shoulder and her hand in mine.
If you don't like hokey, predictable, feel good movies then don't go. If however you believe love is the most powerful thing on the planet and that dreams do come true, then grab someone you love and get to that movie...you'll leave loving them even more.
It isn't often you leave a movie seeing couples arm in arm kissing and laughing, but you will after this one. It isn't often that a movie makes me so happy that I get misty, but this one did. It isn't often that a movie so closely reflects real life, but this movie which is set between childhood fantasy and real adult love, clearly reflects where my 10 year old Gracie is...still a child but equally a blossoming woman...
Gotta go, I don't want Laura to see me "misty eyed"~
Jay
Monday, November 19, 2007
Worship?
I was given 4 tickets to the Michigan State vs. Penn State football game Saturday by a very generous friend. After looking at the weather forecast Laura decided she and Grace would stay home, so I took Torrey and two of his friends. It was a great time, the Spartans put on a second half come back after being down 24 - 7 to win the game.
As I observed the happenings of the day, it occurred to me how unbelievably similar a football game is to Church. The BIG difference I see is the dedication of the worshipers.
We arrived early (very few worshipers arrive late to football games) to find people enjoying the breaking of bread and drinking of varied drink. It seemed as if they actually enjoyed being together...hmmm.
As the appointed hour approached, thousands flocked to the football temple with great anticipation and general glee. As we took our seats it fascinated me to realize that the "regulars" in our section talked as if they were old friends, even though they only see each other a few times each year. They welcomed us with friendly banter and high fives as the kickoff approached.
There were worship leaders on the field of play, and a supporting worship band and singers, even though most of the singing sounded like chants of some sort, it was amazing to see how quickly the 60,000 in the congregation joined in enthusiastically.
I was further amazed as I watched the regulars encourage my son and his friends as they introduced a "new" worship chant. Everyone thought it was that chant which turned the game in MSU's favor...
Anohter astonishing development was how frequently the congregation stood in opposition to the black and white stripped clergy, challenging their interpretation of the "holy book" of rules. Bottom line is they were free to question, without fear of being ridiculed as heretic.
Finally the worshipers shouted in one voice as the climax of the service ended with a buzzer and three zero's registered on the jumbo tron. After the service, many were overheard making plans to go and break more bread together...a real worship service!
Why is it we can get so excited and embrace the celebration of a finely chiseled athlete carrying a dead pig carcass over a chalk line, but we struggle to celebrate Eternal life through Christ.
I'd love to hear your explanation>
As I observed the happenings of the day, it occurred to me how unbelievably similar a football game is to Church. The BIG difference I see is the dedication of the worshipers.
We arrived early (very few worshipers arrive late to football games) to find people enjoying the breaking of bread and drinking of varied drink. It seemed as if they actually enjoyed being together...hmmm.
As the appointed hour approached, thousands flocked to the football temple with great anticipation and general glee. As we took our seats it fascinated me to realize that the "regulars" in our section talked as if they were old friends, even though they only see each other a few times each year. They welcomed us with friendly banter and high fives as the kickoff approached.
There were worship leaders on the field of play, and a supporting worship band and singers, even though most of the singing sounded like chants of some sort, it was amazing to see how quickly the 60,000 in the congregation joined in enthusiastically.
I was further amazed as I watched the regulars encourage my son and his friends as they introduced a "new" worship chant. Everyone thought it was that chant which turned the game in MSU's favor...
Anohter astonishing development was how frequently the congregation stood in opposition to the black and white stripped clergy, challenging their interpretation of the "holy book" of rules. Bottom line is they were free to question, without fear of being ridiculed as heretic.
Finally the worshipers shouted in one voice as the climax of the service ended with a buzzer and three zero's registered on the jumbo tron. After the service, many were overheard making plans to go and break more bread together...a real worship service!
Why is it we can get so excited and embrace the celebration of a finely chiseled athlete carrying a dead pig carcass over a chalk line, but we struggle to celebrate Eternal life through Christ.
I'd love to hear your explanation>
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Practice what you Preach
Laura and I tell couples all the time that they need to get away just the two of them on a regular basis. This practice is critical in keeping marriage healthy, and besides once you get past "all the details" ie getting off work, taking care of the kids, it's actually FUN!
So today Laura and I are getting away for a couple of days to go hunting...NO NOT the four legged white tailed kind, but "hunting" none the less.
We're at a friends cabin in the woods, so don't be upset if we don't return your phone call :-)
Just practicing what we preach!
Blessings~
J&L
So today Laura and I are getting away for a couple of days to go hunting...NO NOT the four legged white tailed kind, but "hunting" none the less.
We're at a friends cabin in the woods, so don't be upset if we don't return your phone call :-)
Just practicing what we preach!
Blessings~
J&L
Monday, November 12, 2007
Does he listen?!?!
So the other day Jay and I were having conversation and I used the word "tump" when refering to something being knocked over. "Careful or that will tump over." Jay began to laugh excessively! He just kept repeating "tump? What kind of word is that?"
Tump is in between tip and dump. Sometimes tip is not strong enough and dump is too strong! I grew up in the south and tump was a word I used often. But here is the kicker...I have used it my entire life! Including the last 22 years and 26 days of my married life!
The question begged to be asked,"If you have never heard me say 'tump' then have you been listening at all?1?"
HMMMMMMMMMM?
Tump is in between tip and dump. Sometimes tip is not strong enough and dump is too strong! I grew up in the south and tump was a word I used often. But here is the kicker...I have used it my entire life! Including the last 22 years and 26 days of my married life!
The question begged to be asked,"If you have never heard me say 'tump' then have you been listening at all?1?"
HMMMMMMMMMM?
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
A new kind of seminary?
I try to read books that stretch my thinking and that I might not always agree with...here is an excerpt from Brian McLaren's somewhat controversial "A New Kind of Christian".
When I said that seminaries operate n the modern model,I meant (among other things) that they put theory before practice and that they assume that knowledge (not character, skill, experience, know-how, passion, and so on) is power...
I firmly believe that the top question of the new century and new millennium is not just whether Christianity is rational, credible, and essentially true (all of which I believe it is) but whether it can be powerful, redemptive, authentic, and good, whether it can change lives, demonstrate reconciliation and community, serve as a catalyst for the kingdom.
So what do you think of this "Radical"????? book? These words ring true to my ears.
Blessings~
Jay
When I said that seminaries operate n the modern model,I meant (among other things) that they put theory before practice and that they assume that knowledge (not character, skill, experience, know-how, passion, and so on) is power...
I firmly believe that the top question of the new century and new millennium is not just whether Christianity is rational, credible, and essentially true (all of which I believe it is) but whether it can be powerful, redemptive, authentic, and good, whether it can change lives, demonstrate reconciliation and community, serve as a catalyst for the kingdom.
So what do you think of this "Radical"????? book? These words ring true to my ears.
Blessings~
Jay
Monday, November 05, 2007
Enter Torrey!
Torrey is a great kid. Let us say that right up front. He has for the most part been a joy to parent, given us so many reasons to be proud, and is a respectful and respected young man. He communicates well with his friends and adults alike and even talks to us about issues which many teens stay mute. That being said, he is still a teenager.
From time to time (Ok more and more these days) Torrey will be out at night. He’ll be off to a ball game or Campus Life meetings or Youth Group. While he’s gone, we get Grace to bed and actually have some quality time as a couple. Sometimes talking, sometimes reading, sometimes in front of the TV. Often, we will start to connect in a way that would naturally lead to additional connecting later on in the bedroom.
Enter Torrey. Being good parents, we try to engage him in conversation about his evening activities. More often than not, he can’t wait to spill forth the plot lines that unfolded over his night out. From time to time however, whether he’s tired or irritated at a friend or just not in a talking mood he simply refuses to communicate about his night. Jay usually dismisses it (as a man I guess he understands when another guy just doesn’t feel like talking) I (Laura) on the other hand can get pretty bent out of shape.
I take Torrey’s lack of communication as “a young man with an attitude” or a child who “doesn’t know who butter’s his bread” and quite honestly it can really set me off. My sensitivity (or over-sensitivity according to Jay) is now transferred to my attitude and demeanor. Without knowing it or understanding why, all that connecting with Jay that has occurred suddenly vanishes, along with Jay’s hopes for further connection.
Gotta Go...Torrey's at Campus Life and Jay's looking for a little "connecting time".
From time to time (Ok more and more these days) Torrey will be out at night. He’ll be off to a ball game or Campus Life meetings or Youth Group. While he’s gone, we get Grace to bed and actually have some quality time as a couple. Sometimes talking, sometimes reading, sometimes in front of the TV. Often, we will start to connect in a way that would naturally lead to additional connecting later on in the bedroom.
Enter Torrey. Being good parents, we try to engage him in conversation about his evening activities. More often than not, he can’t wait to spill forth the plot lines that unfolded over his night out. From time to time however, whether he’s tired or irritated at a friend or just not in a talking mood he simply refuses to communicate about his night. Jay usually dismisses it (as a man I guess he understands when another guy just doesn’t feel like talking) I (Laura) on the other hand can get pretty bent out of shape.
I take Torrey’s lack of communication as “a young man with an attitude” or a child who “doesn’t know who butter’s his bread” and quite honestly it can really set me off. My sensitivity (or over-sensitivity according to Jay) is now transferred to my attitude and demeanor. Without knowing it or understanding why, all that connecting with Jay that has occurred suddenly vanishes, along with Jay’s hopes for further connection.
Gotta Go...Torrey's at Campus Life and Jay's looking for a little "connecting time".
Thursday, November 01, 2007
We're meeting with Pastor's and it's SCARY!
Laura and I are going to be in Lansing MI tomorrow for the Church of God General Assembly. Basically we're hanging out with a bunch of pastor's and church leaders from the Church of God (Anderson, IN).
We are going to present our new model for marriage ministry in the church. We are very excited as this model has been birthed out of an article I wrote earlier this summer, entitled. Marriage Ministry in the Church: Do Nothing, Reap Nothing! It has grown out of our concern for the challenges marriages are facing and the unique position the church holds to help couples meet those challenges. To read the article visit our Marriage Champion site.
We are believing God that He is uniquely positioning Celebrate Ministries to Challenge and Equip churches to help marriages beat the challenges they face.
Pray for us...Pastor's can be scary :-)
Jay
We are going to present our new model for marriage ministry in the church. We are very excited as this model has been birthed out of an article I wrote earlier this summer, entitled. Marriage Ministry in the Church: Do Nothing, Reap Nothing! It has grown out of our concern for the challenges marriages are facing and the unique position the church holds to help couples meet those challenges. To read the article visit our Marriage Champion site.
We are believing God that He is uniquely positioning Celebrate Ministries to Challenge and Equip churches to help marriages beat the challenges they face.
Pray for us...Pastor's can be scary :-)
Jay
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
The continuing saga of a not smart woman
Okay so I went out and bought the game "Are you smarter than a 5th grader". I needed to prove that I could keep up! I failed! MISERABLY!!
Last night, we sat down as a family to play this game. The goal is to win the million dollars by answering 10 questions: 2 from 1st grade, 2 from 2nd and so on through 5th grade. The instructions tell you that the questions are actually taken from grade school curriculum!
So here we go- I was first- I did not make it to 3rd grade! Did you know that there are 13 stripes on the American Flag?!?!?! Did you know that it takes 365 days for the earth to completely circle the sun?!?! I was pretty sure it only took 12 hours! My family got some really good laughs at my expense. That is what I am here for!
So lets see if you can answer the one question that did stump my fam but that I did answer correctly:
Finish this song- "Oh, I went down south to see my Sal singing" WHAT?
Have fun!
Last night, we sat down as a family to play this game. The goal is to win the million dollars by answering 10 questions: 2 from 1st grade, 2 from 2nd and so on through 5th grade. The instructions tell you that the questions are actually taken from grade school curriculum!
So here we go- I was first- I did not make it to 3rd grade! Did you know that there are 13 stripes on the American Flag?!?!?! Did you know that it takes 365 days for the earth to completely circle the sun?!?! I was pretty sure it only took 12 hours! My family got some really good laughs at my expense. That is what I am here for!
So lets see if you can answer the one question that did stump my fam but that I did answer correctly:
Finish this song- "Oh, I went down south to see my Sal singing" WHAT?
Have fun!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Are you smarter than a 5th grader!
The easy answer is NO! At least I am not! Grace is in fifth grade and she is much smarter than I. Her favorite thing to do right now is come home from school and quiz us all on whatever they are currently studying. Recently we have been quizzed on plants, their structure, how they grow and eat, etc. I did not do to badly on that quiz!
Currently in school, Grace is studying American History, specifically Native Americans. Last night she came home asking us all kinds of questions about tribes, where they lived, what they were known for, what they did for trade,etc. Grace's favorite part of the quiz is to turn it on us and make us ask her questions from our limited knowledge!
Last night, Jay was just sure he had her! He was asking her all kinds of questions concerning Native Americans and their history. Grace was answering every question correctly! Jay, being the competitive person that he is, thinks long and hard. "AH-HA!", he exclaims, "I've got one for you little girl!" " What is the name of the tribe from the Great Plains region that was known for wearing Mohawks?" Grace looks quizzically at him. " I do not know that one", she replies dejectedly. "Iroquois!" Jay exclaims triumphantly. To which Grace replies,"Dad that is not right. The Iroquois were northeastern woodland Indians." Stunned, Jay thinks, " Oh you're right I am thinking of the Apaches!"
Now I am NOT the only person in our family not smarter than a fifth grader!
Currently in school, Grace is studying American History, specifically Native Americans. Last night she came home asking us all kinds of questions about tribes, where they lived, what they were known for, what they did for trade,etc. Grace's favorite part of the quiz is to turn it on us and make us ask her questions from our limited knowledge!
Last night, Jay was just sure he had her! He was asking her all kinds of questions concerning Native Americans and their history. Grace was answering every question correctly! Jay, being the competitive person that he is, thinks long and hard. "AH-HA!", he exclaims, "I've got one for you little girl!" " What is the name of the tribe from the Great Plains region that was known for wearing Mohawks?" Grace looks quizzically at him. " I do not know that one", she replies dejectedly. "Iroquois!" Jay exclaims triumphantly. To which Grace replies,"Dad that is not right. The Iroquois were northeastern woodland Indians." Stunned, Jay thinks, " Oh you're right I am thinking of the Apaches!"
Now I am NOT the only person in our family not smarter than a fifth grader!
Friday, October 26, 2007
He is so exhausting!
Okay so here is the deal ladies-do you ever find yourself being exhausted to the point that you need to sleep for an entire day? I do often and I have discovered the cause! JAY!!! Not for the reasons your mind is already thinking either!
Frequently, which means often at short intervals, so in real people terms- ALOT! Anyway, I accuse Jay ALOT of being the energizer bunny- he keeps going and going and going and expects the rest of us to keep up! I tell him that it is not humanly possible and that he is a freak of nature to keep going like he does. Here is the essential crux of the problem- HIS BRAIN NEVER STOPS! HE always took my accusations of him being freakish as a ploy to distract from my laziness and love of sleep. But now I have proof that he is a freak!
Last Saturday morning as we are enjoying our first cup of coffee, Jay gets this funny look on his face and says this," I think I wrote a chapter of our new book last night." To which I replied, "Great! I did not hear you get up to go write?" " I didn't get up. I wrote it in my sleep". " FREAK!!!" was my loving response. Jay then begin to recall all the thoughts that had come together in his brain while he slept! He actually did write a new chapter for our new book while he slept. It is actually very good and has some depth! Now he believes me when I tell him he is a freak.
Have a great day and enjoy the freaks in your life!
Frequently, which means often at short intervals, so in real people terms- ALOT! Anyway, I accuse Jay ALOT of being the energizer bunny- he keeps going and going and going and expects the rest of us to keep up! I tell him that it is not humanly possible and that he is a freak of nature to keep going like he does. Here is the essential crux of the problem- HIS BRAIN NEVER STOPS! HE always took my accusations of him being freakish as a ploy to distract from my laziness and love of sleep. But now I have proof that he is a freak!
Last Saturday morning as we are enjoying our first cup of coffee, Jay gets this funny look on his face and says this," I think I wrote a chapter of our new book last night." To which I replied, "Great! I did not hear you get up to go write?" " I didn't get up. I wrote it in my sleep". " FREAK!!!" was my loving response. Jay then begin to recall all the thoughts that had come together in his brain while he slept! He actually did write a new chapter for our new book while he slept. It is actually very good and has some depth! Now he believes me when I tell him he is a freak.
Have a great day and enjoy the freaks in your life!
Saturday, October 20, 2007
I Don't hate animals...But this is ridiculous!
Let me start by saying that I am not an animal hater. I could never hurt an animal nor would I EVER condone that type of behavior. That being said I must speak out!
I saw a clip on the news this morning featuring Ellen DeGeneres and her "Dog Tragedy". Basically Ellen broke down crying on national TV because an organization she adopted a dog from took the dog back after Ellen violated the terms of the contract.
Ellen had spent $3,000 getting the dog neutered and "trained" to live with her cats. The dog wouldn't "fit in" so she gave the dog to her hairdresser and received daily "updates" about cuddly little Iggy. Her hairdresser has two daughters and Ellen is just distraught over these two girls losing their dog.
Now, I am sensitive to how easily young girls can get hurt, my Gracie reminds me of that almost daily. And I do feel for those two girls and I hope they get Iggy back.
What perked my ears and caused me to investigate was the $3,000 Ellen had spent in the first two weeks she owned the dog. I am aware of Ellen's fame and associated "fortune" I'm sure, but it made me ask what does it cost to own a dog?
I did some research and found that owning a dog for an average of 14 years (the average life span of a dog) ranges from $4,200 to $39,000. Those figures blew me away. Why? because I know how that much money could impact a PERSON in need.
Now don't go off on how dogs are good for your health, and make great companions, blah blah blah...guess what? So does having a relationship or friendship with a PERSON!
$4,200 can educate, medicate, clothe, feed, house, and impact a child for ETERNITY! Through Compassion International someone like you and me can impact impoverished children around the world. $32/month would help a child for over 10 years before it would cost $4,200.
Don't even get me started on $39,000. That's 10 kids for 10 years...wow!
I think before we shed one tear over an animal, we should shed many until we assist every PERSON who genuinely needs our help.
I saw a clip on the news this morning featuring Ellen DeGeneres and her "Dog Tragedy". Basically Ellen broke down crying on national TV because an organization she adopted a dog from took the dog back after Ellen violated the terms of the contract.
Ellen had spent $3,000 getting the dog neutered and "trained" to live with her cats. The dog wouldn't "fit in" so she gave the dog to her hairdresser and received daily "updates" about cuddly little Iggy. Her hairdresser has two daughters and Ellen is just distraught over these two girls losing their dog.
Now, I am sensitive to how easily young girls can get hurt, my Gracie reminds me of that almost daily. And I do feel for those two girls and I hope they get Iggy back.
What perked my ears and caused me to investigate was the $3,000 Ellen had spent in the first two weeks she owned the dog. I am aware of Ellen's fame and associated "fortune" I'm sure, but it made me ask what does it cost to own a dog?
I did some research and found that owning a dog for an average of 14 years (the average life span of a dog) ranges from $4,200 to $39,000. Those figures blew me away. Why? because I know how that much money could impact a PERSON in need.
Now don't go off on how dogs are good for your health, and make great companions, blah blah blah...guess what? So does having a relationship or friendship with a PERSON!
$4,200 can educate, medicate, clothe, feed, house, and impact a child for ETERNITY! Through Compassion International someone like you and me can impact impoverished children around the world. $32/month would help a child for over 10 years before it would cost $4,200.
Don't even get me started on $39,000. That's 10 kids for 10 years...wow!
I think before we shed one tear over an animal, we should shed many until we assist every PERSON who genuinely needs our help.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
A Birthday thought...Confirmed
I'm 46 today...firmly rooted in middle age! This morning in my journal I reflected on the insignificance of life...in the scope of time and space and the shear number of souls walking this planet I am nothing...dust.
I further reflected however that Christ is everything..."in-Him" all was made and all is held together...so I concluded my journal entry this morning with the following:
"I am dust Lord and you are the Swiffer...so pick me up and take me where you wish...Swiffer me to the place you see fit. If I am to be 'Butt Dust' may I be 'Butt Dust' for You."
Those heart felt thoughts were confirmed this morning as I opened my email to read my daily Bible text I receive from our friends at the Moravian church
Tuesday, October 16
Psalm 119:9-16
Ezekiel 20:30-21:17; James 2:1-13
You have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight. Surely everyone stands as a mere breath. Psalm 39:5
Creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope. Romans 8:20
Amazing Creator, in the grand plan of your creation we are but a speck; our lives a mere blink of your eye. You are our teacher, help us to comprehend - we long to understand. Amen.
So fellow "Dust Bunnies" who or what is "Swiffering" you?
Jay
I further reflected however that Christ is everything..."in-Him" all was made and all is held together...so I concluded my journal entry this morning with the following:
"I am dust Lord and you are the Swiffer...so pick me up and take me where you wish...Swiffer me to the place you see fit. If I am to be 'Butt Dust' may I be 'Butt Dust' for You."
Those heart felt thoughts were confirmed this morning as I opened my email to read my daily Bible text I receive from our friends at the Moravian church
Tuesday, October 16
Psalm 119:9-16
Ezekiel 20:30-21:17; James 2:1-13
You have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight. Surely everyone stands as a mere breath. Psalm 39:5
Creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope. Romans 8:20
Amazing Creator, in the grand plan of your creation we are but a speck; our lives a mere blink of your eye. You are our teacher, help us to comprehend - we long to understand. Amen.
So fellow "Dust Bunnies" who or what is "Swiffering" you?
Jay
Monday, October 15, 2007
Can we fill God with Joy?
For the last 5 years Grace has slept in a "Petite Twin" bed that was my grandmothers. Grandma was 4'10" at her peak and had shrunk with age so the bed was plenty big for her. Grace however is growing like a weed and we would often find her sleeping with her feet off the end of the bed.
Saturday we were out at "Jay's Furniture Barn" in Elwell MI. We wandered back in the clearance section we found the perfect bed at an affordable price.
The bed has a bookshelf headboard complete with two reading lights built in which is perfect for our little girl who easily reads two to three books a week. It has dresser drawers "built in" underneath the bead which gives Grace extra space not needing a dresser in her bedroom. And best of all (for dad) the bed needed little assembly as it came in pieces that slid together.
As Grace snuggled in her bed that night, the strangest thing occurred. I found myself filled with a feeling I had never experienced before. The pure joy of "Fatherhood". Grace had never asked for a bed. She didn't really know she needed a bed. As her father however, I not only knew she needed it, but wanted to provide it simply because I love her. Grace's grateful response to the gift brought me pure JOY!
I think God is like that a lot with us. He knows what we need, even when we don't know we need it. He provides for us simply because He is our Father. No strings attached, no "ifs" no conditions. When we respond with gratitude for the little things God provides everyday, I believe we fill our Heavenly Father with JOY!
Thank God for the little ways He provides and know you are a blessing to HIM!
Jay
Saturday we were out at "Jay's Furniture Barn" in Elwell MI. We wandered back in the clearance section we found the perfect bed at an affordable price.
The bed has a bookshelf headboard complete with two reading lights built in which is perfect for our little girl who easily reads two to three books a week. It has dresser drawers "built in" underneath the bead which gives Grace extra space not needing a dresser in her bedroom. And best of all (for dad) the bed needed little assembly as it came in pieces that slid together.
As Grace snuggled in her bed that night, the strangest thing occurred. I found myself filled with a feeling I had never experienced before. The pure joy of "Fatherhood". Grace had never asked for a bed. She didn't really know she needed a bed. As her father however, I not only knew she needed it, but wanted to provide it simply because I love her. Grace's grateful response to the gift brought me pure JOY!
I think God is like that a lot with us. He knows what we need, even when we don't know we need it. He provides for us simply because He is our Father. No strings attached, no "ifs" no conditions. When we respond with gratitude for the little things God provides everyday, I believe we fill our Heavenly Father with JOY!
Thank God for the little ways He provides and know you are a blessing to HIM!
Jay
Friday, October 12, 2007
It's been a while...but this intrigued me
I received the following from a friend...it's harsh but definitely some food for thought...
There was a Chemistry professor in a large college that had a few exchange students in the class. One day while the class was in the lab, the Professor noticed one exchange student who kept rubbing his back and stretching as if his back hurt.
The professor asked the young man what was the matter. The student told him he had a bullet lodged in his back. He had been shot while fighting communists in his native country.
In the midst of his story, the student looked at the professor and asked a strange question. He asked, "Do you know how to catch wild pigs?"
The professor thought it was a joke and asked for the punch line. The young man said this was no joke. "You catch wild pigs by finding a suitable place in the woods and putting corn on the ground. The pigs find it and begin to come everyday to eat the free corn. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the place where they are used to coming. When they get used to the fence, they begin to eat the corn again and you put up the second side of the fence. They get used to that and start to eat again. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. The pigs, who are used to the free corn, start to come through the gate to eat, you slam the gate on them and catch the whole herd.
Suddenly the wild pigs have lost their freedom. They run around and around inside the fence, but they are caught. Soon they go back to eating the free corn. They are so used to it that they have forgotten how to forage in the woods for themselves and so they accept their captivity.
The young man then told the professor that is exactly what he sees happening to America. The government keeps spreading the free corn out in the form of programs such as supplemental income, tax credit for unearned income, tobacco subsidies, dairy subsidies, payments not to plant crops (CRP), welfare, medicine, drugs, etc. While we continually lose our freedoms- just a little at a time.
One should always remember "There is no such thing as a free lunch!" You can never hire someone to provide a service for you cheaper than you can do it yourself.
So? What do YOU think?
Jay
There was a Chemistry professor in a large college that had a few exchange students in the class. One day while the class was in the lab, the Professor noticed one exchange student who kept rubbing his back and stretching as if his back hurt.
The professor asked the young man what was the matter. The student told him he had a bullet lodged in his back. He had been shot while fighting communists in his native country.
In the midst of his story, the student looked at the professor and asked a strange question. He asked, "Do you know how to catch wild pigs?"
The professor thought it was a joke and asked for the punch line. The young man said this was no joke. "You catch wild pigs by finding a suitable place in the woods and putting corn on the ground. The pigs find it and begin to come everyday to eat the free corn. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the place where they are used to coming. When they get used to the fence, they begin to eat the corn again and you put up the second side of the fence. They get used to that and start to eat again. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. The pigs, who are used to the free corn, start to come through the gate to eat, you slam the gate on them and catch the whole herd.
Suddenly the wild pigs have lost their freedom. They run around and around inside the fence, but they are caught. Soon they go back to eating the free corn. They are so used to it that they have forgotten how to forage in the woods for themselves and so they accept their captivity.
The young man then told the professor that is exactly what he sees happening to America. The government keeps spreading the free corn out in the form of programs such as supplemental income, tax credit for unearned income, tobacco subsidies, dairy subsidies, payments not to plant crops (CRP), welfare, medicine, drugs, etc. While we continually lose our freedoms- just a little at a time.
One should always remember "There is no such thing as a free lunch!" You can never hire someone to provide a service for you cheaper than you can do it yourself.
So? What do YOU think?
Jay
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Marriage is hard work!
Not that this statement is news to any one that is married! Today alone, without discussing my own marriage, I have talked with over 5 different people concerning their marriages and the struggles as human beings we have living with another human being! I won't even go into my own marriage and the struggle I have putting undue expectations on myself to be the perfect wife and mother!
So if we all stink at marriage, and we can all acknowledge that, why do we give the media attention to those poor celebrities whose marriages stink too??? Just because they are in the limelight, why does that give the media any right to point out the faults in their relationships? I don't think it does! Nor should we find pleasure in the fact that their marriages are not any different than our own.
So that is my two cents!
Laura
So if we all stink at marriage, and we can all acknowledge that, why do we give the media attention to those poor celebrities whose marriages stink too??? Just because they are in the limelight, why does that give the media any right to point out the faults in their relationships? I don't think it does! Nor should we find pleasure in the fact that their marriages are not any different than our own.
So that is my two cents!
Laura
Monday, October 01, 2007
Meatloaf memories
We had a first in the Laffoon household tonight. Our 10 year old daughter Grace announced that SHE was going to make dinner! Ok, so what are we going to have? "Meatloaf, corn and a salad" came the reply. I think the real reason she wanted to make dinner was to kill some time after being "grounded" from "screens" (TV, Computer, Game boy etc.)
None the less, when dinner hit the table at precisely 6:36pm EST we all ate in amazement at the delicious food she had prepared. The meatloaf was exceptional with a delightful red glaze. The sweet corn tasted as good as it did this summer when we froze it, and the salad was "tossed" to perfection.
I don't think I'll ever forget the memories and flavor of our first episode of Gracie the Gourmet!
In other news, Brittany Spears lost custody of her children today...do you think she'll miss the Meatloaf? I think she already does~
So what's your favorite meatloaf memory?
Jay
None the less, when dinner hit the table at precisely 6:36pm EST we all ate in amazement at the delicious food she had prepared. The meatloaf was exceptional with a delightful red glaze. The sweet corn tasted as good as it did this summer when we froze it, and the salad was "tossed" to perfection.
I don't think I'll ever forget the memories and flavor of our first episode of Gracie the Gourmet!
In other news, Brittany Spears lost custody of her children today...do you think she'll miss the Meatloaf? I think she already does~
So what's your favorite meatloaf memory?
Jay
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Mamma's Comin' HOME!
Laura's been away since Sunday, visiting her mother and boy am I glad she's arriving home tonight! Now there are MANY reasons I'm anxiously awaiting her return ;-).
The main reason, however is how well she balances our household. I know for a fact that when I'm away, Laura and the kids have a non-stop party...that's right, when dad's away the rest will play! And yes when I'm parenting alone the house runs more like a military establishment...but in my defense it is the only way to keep my sanity~~
Brittany Spears, Madonna, and Angelina Jolie may have more people watching there parenting skills, but the truth is parenting is done best when both mom and dad bring their strengths to the table and show the kids that both parents are certifiably INSANE!
That's all for now...I'll be in a much better mood tomorrow!
Jay
The main reason, however is how well she balances our household. I know for a fact that when I'm away, Laura and the kids have a non-stop party...that's right, when dad's away the rest will play! And yes when I'm parenting alone the house runs more like a military establishment...but in my defense it is the only way to keep my sanity~~
Brittany Spears, Madonna, and Angelina Jolie may have more people watching there parenting skills, but the truth is parenting is done best when both mom and dad bring their strengths to the table and show the kids that both parents are certifiably INSANE!
That's all for now...I'll be in a much better mood tomorrow!
Jay
Sunday, September 23, 2007
To Tivo or not to Tivo
Television kicks off the fall season tonight. Along with some of our family favorites, we're looking forward to some of the new offerings out there. One I am definately NOT going to miss is Kid Nation. What kind of world will they create? What bad habits will they show they've learned from mom and dad?
One I will definately stay away from is Dirty Sexy Money. How low can a network go to try to lure an audience? Simply appeal to the base nature in humans. How sickening. We see the same stars, with the same tired plot lines year after year because some marketing firm in New York or LA thinks their little corner of the universe is REAL...ha!
When will we see real people on a real show again...Maybe I was an Everybody Loves Raymond fan because I saw so much of my family in it, but at least I had something to connect with. I prefer not to connect with Dirty Sexy Money, but would rather my life be about Fun, Monogamous, Philanthropy. Since the networks would never run a show like that, it's up to us to LIVE IT!
Blessings~
Jay
One I will definately stay away from is Dirty Sexy Money. How low can a network go to try to lure an audience? Simply appeal to the base nature in humans. How sickening. We see the same stars, with the same tired plot lines year after year because some marketing firm in New York or LA thinks their little corner of the universe is REAL...ha!
When will we see real people on a real show again...Maybe I was an Everybody Loves Raymond fan because I saw so much of my family in it, but at least I had something to connect with. I prefer not to connect with Dirty Sexy Money, but would rather my life be about Fun, Monogamous, Philanthropy. Since the networks would never run a show like that, it's up to us to LIVE IT!
Blessings~
Jay
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
13!!!
Okay ladies~ I now know why we call cannot look like the models we see in magazines and on tv! All this time, I thought it was me! I needed a new diet. I needed to add a bzillion more hours on the treadmill! NO NO NO! According to the fashion industry it is because we are not 13!
Maddison Gabriel the hottest new model making headlines is only 13! She models women's clothing for women 2 and 3 times her age! That is you and me! I do not know about you but I do not have the body of a thirteen year old.
Now I could get caught up in all the rigamaroll surrounding whether a girl of 13 should be allowed to model because of the environment and losing her innocence and yada yada yada.....BUT....
Here is my point, I don't think she should be modeling clothes as a 13 year old that are suppose to be for a 30 or 40 year old! We wonder why we go into that clothing store to buy the hottest new fashions of the season and they don't fit? Well, those clothes fit the model - yeah and she is 13!
Give me a break!
Maddison Gabriel the hottest new model making headlines is only 13! She models women's clothing for women 2 and 3 times her age! That is you and me! I do not know about you but I do not have the body of a thirteen year old.
Now I could get caught up in all the rigamaroll surrounding whether a girl of 13 should be allowed to model because of the environment and losing her innocence and yada yada yada.....BUT....
Here is my point, I don't think she should be modeling clothes as a 13 year old that are suppose to be for a 30 or 40 year old! We wonder why we go into that clothing store to buy the hottest new fashions of the season and they don't fit? Well, those clothes fit the model - yeah and she is 13!
Give me a break!
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