Review: The Wheel Man - Watermelon Slim and the Watchers

Solid, rootsy blues soaked in Slim's oaken voice accompanied by some smoking musicians. Slim is old school and keeps the blues blue. Here's the INFUZE review:

The Wheel Man - Watermelon Slim and the Watchers

Review: Miles Away - Gina Villalobos

With a voice that evokes thoughts of Lucinda Williams and Melissa Etheridge, Villalobos writes heartfelt lyrics over a country-tinged rock soundscape. Here's the INFUZE review:

Miles Away - Gina Villalobos

Hello, My Name is Andrew...

...and I like American Idol. I tried not to watch this season. I really did. But, like some stinkin' tractor beam it pulled me right in. Part of it has to do with the fact that, come bedtime for my little girl, there's really no place to seek solace outside of our living room till she's fully asleep and snoring soundly. Yet, I could try to resist and yet, it's like a drug. The music just calls to me.

Well, now that I've got that off of my chest I just wanted to applaud American Idol for their show last evening, Idol Gives Back. I didn't watch all of it partially because I just wasn't in the mood and, well, it just creeps me out a bit to watch Celene Dion perform and because my wife had control of the remote and was doing her best ADD impression of switching between two or three channels as I sought to return to the world of Hogwart's in the sixth installment of Harry Potter. But, I did see enough to consider the show a well-intended and appropriate one. Sure, charity is big time in Hollywood right now with celebs like Madonna and Angelina Jolie adopting kids like they're new handbags but, the bottom line is that these are truly issues that need to be addressed. I'm with Bono in thinking and hoping that our generation may be the one that eradicates poverty and suffering like that being seen in modern day Africa. And American Idol took a nice step in bringing aid and visibility to that cause last night.

It's daunting to see such issues before us as we sit in our comfy chairs and couches, drinking from our cool beverages, enjoying aid conditioned luxury with our full bellies while a mere distance away, literally millions of people are struggling with AIDS/HIV, malaria, impure water, and starvation, many of these attributable to poverty. Many times I wonder how to make a tangible difference when the problem seems so large. But, that old adage holds true here: The journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step. We're going to help out in any way we can. I encourage you to do the same.

Check out the ONE campaign site for more details: www.one.org

Recent Reading and Viewing

For whatever reason, I've been in a very good place to devour fiction. As I've already mentioned, I've been pouring over the Harry Potter books and this time is no different. The fifth in the series was the best yet, drawing out more interesting characters and plot devices. I'll admit, in some ways, having the movies around only helps to enhance these books as people like Professor Snape seem fully realized in the person of Alan Rickman. Either way, it was an excellent read. I picked up #6 just the other day and am going to start any day now.

Chuck Palahniuk writes with such a wry cynicism and biting sense of humor. He continues to amaze me with his unique look at life and his first-person style of writing leaves little to be desired. Survivor is a great look at celebrity and life and proves to be a great read.

Stranger Than Fiction is one of the better movies that I've seen in a long time. Will Ferrell plays the straight man well in this one, making you genuinely care for him and Emma Thompson is wonderful. Maggie Gyllenhaal is also terrific as Ferrell's love interest and continues to earn some solid credibility with her acting choices. I really enjoyed this film for it's portrayal of the writing life, of showcasing the writer's almost visual imagination as they view a scene in what comes across as an entirely different vision than most. I also appreciated the struggle with the character and the author. It sounds a bit crazy but, when writing, those characters seem far more real than they really are at times. Either way, this is a keeper!

Sexual Healing

Recently, for whatever reason, the word "sexual therapist" has caught my eye whenever I see it. Most often, it's on a book I'm receiving into our store's inventory or on the back cover as I'm doing my best to strip the label off so I can send it back. But, the title has grabbed me as of late and left me with a question: How does one become a sexual therapist?

Well, let's consider the connotation here first. The initial understanding, at least in my sleep-deprived head, is that one who fits this description is one who, now stay with me, provides sexual therapy. This is a person who majored in sex, so to speak. How do you do that? How do you become the guy or girl who is the sex major? Was there a class for this? What university do you go to to get this degree? Do you see my frustration here? My confusion?

Now, I'm all for the institution of sexual therapy. Clearly, there are numbers of folks in this world who find themselves struggling with various disorders and situations that call for the instruction of someone who's a little more knowledgeable. But again, more knowledgeable? Okay, one image for you and I'll close this little crazy diatribe: Dr. Ruth. Dr. Ruth is one of our foremost sexual therapists. I just don't get it....

Interview: The Almost

Here's another interview that I was able to do recently for INFUZE, this time with Aaron Gillespie of The Almost. We talked about the genesis of the project, Gillespie's relationship with his UnderOath bandmates, and more...

Check it out:

Interview: The Almost

Living in the Tension

My newfound pursuit of writing and trying to, I don't know, actually make money doing this sort of stuff has led me already to rubbing elbows with some really interesting people. My little gig at INFUZE has not only allowed me a forum to develop what I hope are my talents, it's also given me the opportunity to dream, to create, and to simply be challenged by what those around me are doing. Some of the people I share webspace with there are published fiction writers, pastors, comic book creators and illustrators, music producers, and more. Being in this sort of company simply makes me stand in awe because, clearly, my work is not quite there.

One of the guys there who's been super friendly, helpful, accomdating, and I could go on forever, is my friend, Matt Conner. Matt is a church planter and freelancer who is a much more gifted writer than I am. Just the other day Matt tapped into some of my heart through a blogpost that he wrote regarding our need for certainty and the reality of mystery in our lives. I thought this was really good. Check it out:

The Role of Certainty

Review: Southern Weather - The Almost

To be honest, I'd never heard of The Almost before this came across my desk. I'd heard of Aaron Gillespie, the young man who essentially makes up The Almost's day job with metalcore band UnderOath but had never caught wind of this offering. I'm glad I did. Far more accessible that UnderOath's work, the album is a great listen. Here's the INFUZE review:

Southern Weather - The Almost

Review: Trailercana - Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadors

This is an album that I happened upon due to one of the media contacts I've developed. I had a feeling when I stuck this in the CD player that I'd probably enjoy this but it ended up being a great album. It's quirky, homey, funny, and yes, poignant. For something a little different, this is worth your time! Here's the INFUZE review I did:

Trailercana - Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadors

Infuze 3.0

This is something that I'm pretty excited about and am asking that you take the time to go ahead and visit. I've been writing for the better part of nine months for a website called Infuze. If you're one of the three frequent readers here (thanks Mom!) then you know this because this is where all of those silly reviews that I post link to. Anyway, Infuze has provided me with not only a forum to write but with an eclectic class of people to rub virtual elbows with and to learn from. And now it's got even better!

Infuze 3.0 is our new launch which is going to enable for more content, more features, and more opportunities. From increasing reviews and interviews and news, to offering up new staff blogs as well, it's a whole new experience. Our new tagline, courtesy of my pal Mr. Matt Conner is: Criticize by Creating. This is the heart of Infuze and I hope you'll take the time to stop on by.

Oh, did I mention I'm now a staff writer and blogger for them? Check it out at:

www.infuzemag.com

The Original Gap

Tyler lost his first tooth not too long ago playing on the playground! Here's the gap! He's actually lost the one beside it since but, well, being the attentive parents that we are, we don't seem to have a picture of that yet!

The Truth War

It's been a little while since I've posted anything really related to the Church or to things emergent but this recently crossed my path and I just felt like commenting a bit. I knew that this book was coming, due to a few bloggers here and there that spoke of it, yet I guess I just wasn't ready. Now, to be fair, the answer to begin with is, no, I haven't read the book. I have taken a few moments to page through, have read the cover copy, and looked through the list of references and footnotes cited in the back. And, even though I haven't read it, I think I'm saddened by John MacArthur's newest, The Truth War.

Let me say this before I continue. I respect Dr. John MacArthur even while I disagree with him. He has spent a good portion of his life studying and defending the Bible and his work in that area cannot be denied. Yet, while I respect his study, tenacity, and passion for this I do clearly disagree with some of his conclusions. This is certainly one such case.

Two things, again, having not read the book yet, stand out at me at the outset. One such issue is Dr. MacArthur's clear misunderstanding of what comprises the emerging church. A quick flip through the footnotes indicates that MacArthur's knowledge of the emerging church is limited to the statements and works created by Brian McLaren. Now certainly, Brian has in some ways shouldered much of the initial public burden of bringing some discussion to light but I think I'm confident in saying that McLaren himself would argue that he does not speak for the whole. One of the beauties and, for some, frustrations of the emerging movement is the focus on discussion and conversation. We bring all the ideas to the table and attempt to work them out in a collaborative context. While McLaren has done a whole lot of legwork for the emerging church, he is not the sole spokesperson. I'm just left wondering if Dr. MacArthur truly studied the movement enough? Just a concern.

My second concern and frustration begins with the cover image and extends to the wording contained. The mainstream world sees enough of Christians bickering and fighting and, Lord knows, history itself is rife with this kind of strife. Yet, here we are in 2007 calling each other out to war. The language of war itself presupposes a number of things and I think Dr. MacArthur is rash in his assessment of the movement. The emerging movement is by no means perfect. I daresay that those considering themselves within would argue the same. Yet to call out a war on fellow believers seems to be in poor taste and simply poor judgement. A diversity of opinions resides in the pool known as emerging and perhaps one is better left reading a book like Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches: Five Perspectives and decide for oneself.

For a few more thoughts on the issue, pastor Bob Hyatt has posted some good stuff here.

Review: 10 Days Out: Blues from the Backroads - Kenny Wayne Shepherd

I grew up a huge fan of the blues due to the openness of my parents with an appreciative nod toward Mr. John Belushi and Mr. Dan Ackroyd. Running across the music of John Lee Hooker changed my life and introduced me to a whole new world of music. Kenny Wayne Shepherd is one of the new breed and this recording finds him trying to prove himself to the old guard. Very, very good. Here's my review:

10 Days Out: Blues from the Backroads - Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Review: Time Without Consequence - Alexi Murdoch

For fans of Joshua Radin or even Jack Johnson, Alexi Murdoch is a good guy to give a listen. Strongly acoustic with some unique fluorishes, this is a great step for the indie artist. Here's my INFUZE review:

Time Without Consequence - Alexi Murdoch

Review: Self-Titled - 33Miles

Some kids like their pop a little country flavored and that's what fledlging CCM group 33Miles tries on their self-titled release. It falls a little flat for my taste. Here's the review:

Self-Titled - 33Miles

Review: Good and Reckless and True - The Alternate Routes

Sometimes a band comes across your way and they're just that good. Welcome to the land of The Alternate Routes. Here's the review I did of their new album for INFUZE.

Good and Reckless and True - The Alternate Routes

Review: Rocky Balboa DVD

Here's a review I did of the new DVD for Rocky Balboa, the final in the series, for INFUZE. I grew up a die-hard Stallone fan and Rocky was at the top of the list when it came to movies so, while I'm a bit biased, I think this was a good one!

Rocky Balboa

Some Recent Reading

Despite my slight bummed out spirit over not knowing which way to go with this life I've been given, and in between trying to jam out some writing here and there during the few, very few, quiet moments I have in life, I've been able to catch up on some reading lately. I think that the situations of life have lead me to wanting something of a fantasy adventure to lose myself in so my choices definately reflect that.

Christopher Moore is simply one of my favorite writers that I've come across and this one doesn't disappoint. It's a very unique look at vampires, relationships, and love. In only a way that Christopher Moore can!At the behest of my good friend Celena, I once again eschewed my fundamental, evangelical moorings and dove headfirst into the world of young Mr. Harry Potter. She suggested that I wouldn't be able to put them down and, well, I'm still reading and am now debating whether or not I might need to pre-order number seven!

Just a thought I had while overhearing some discussion while in the midst of reading through some of these books...The concepts of magic and wizardry and the like are among some of the dangers upheld against the Harry Potter series in much of the conservative Christian crowd. And while I agree that the Bible does teach against placing your trust in divination and dealing with certain things, I'm not so sure that this series is intended to really charm you into picking up a crystal ball, a broom, and a new wand from your local magic shop. Either way, I was just struck with the idea that some of our traditions and ideas might be seen just as unusual. Consider some sects of believers who greatly emphasize holy water or anointing oil. What of those who pray over rooms and windows and doors, seeking solace from the Enemy? I don't know. All I'm saying is that sometimes we need to stop and consider what we're doing.

A Loss of Passion

Just recently I had some friends of mine nail me to the wall. Not literally, mind you, but two separate friends on two separate occasions pointed out some things going on in my life that just really made me sit up and listen.

The first came via an email from a guy that I've never even met in person. Matt is someone I met through my involvement in writing for Infuze and has been just a tremendous encourager and friend along the process of my trying to break into some sort of paid writing life. He's tossed me opportunity after opportunity and has continued to invest time into me. I'm incredibly thankful for his friendship and help. It was in his response to an email of mine though, that he really got me.

I'd emailed him asking, once again, for any ideas for writing venues and if he'd be willing to sort of share his journey of writing with me so that I could share it with my wife who was struggling to understand some of what I was doing. Essentially, she didn't get how my writing stuff for free would one day lead to me writing for money. And she especially wasn't real happy about my taking on more work to boot. Anyway, Matt made this sage declaration in that email before going on to tell me what I'd asked. He wrote:

"We seem to have much of the same heart and you seem frustrated in a job you don't want and without writing, I would wonder if you were moving toward any personal passion at all..."

Ouch. But right on.

The second friend to call me out, although this one was not so much a call-out as it was a clarification and understanding, was one of my dearest, Celena. Celena and I have known each other forever, having been friends since elementary school. Our paths have weaved in and out and our friendship has weaved with it but interestingly enough, we always end up back at the same spot. She is one of my most valued friends in this world and I was thrilled as she was in town and we had a chance to catch up at the local Perkin's one night not too long ago. I say catch up but that's sort of misleading. We arrived at the restaurant around seven in the evening and ended up leaving around one in the morning. For my money, that's a little more than catching up!

Anyway, a similar discussion came up in our talk and I shared with her my frustrations in doing what I do now and she pointed out part of the problem.

"You don't want to work for The Man," she said, smiling. I laughed but, truth was, she was right. I've never been much for the nine-to-fiver or anything closely resembling a traditional structure. And to top it off, the work that I do is rather unfulfilling. Totally not my passion.

I'm thankful for friends that tell you like it is and help to clarify things that you yourself just think nobody sees or understands. They were right. I have lost that sense of passion and, well, I don't want to work for The Man anymore. The quandary I find myself in now is in trying to discover where to go. Mid-life crises are supposed to happen later in life, not at the ripe old age of thirty!

Review: Blind Man Walking - Cadillac Sky

For those who enjoy a bit of the high lonesome sound on occasion, here's a review I did for INFUZE of a terrific new progressive bluegrass group, Cadillac Sky. Check it out!

Blind Man Walking - Cadillac Sky

You've Gotta Be Kidding Me!

Here's the link to a news article talking about an Ohio city's decision to pull a Dukes of Hazzard themed production due to it's racist content, primarily the use of Confederate-themed images. How sad is this world? It's the freakin' Dukes of Hazzard!

City Pulls Dukes of Hazzard

Review: Chronology Volume One - Third Day

I grew up on these guys' brand of southern styled Christian rock and although they've disappointed me with their past several albums (for my money, they've gone a bit soft in their old age!) I was able to review this greatest hits collection for INFUZE. Check it out.

Chronology Volume One - Third Day

Me & the Boy

Just this past week, my wife's uncle passed away and she decided to travel with her mother up to Maryland for the services. She took Peyton along, leaving me and Tyler to be bachelors for a little bit. It's been a really good time.

I don't know. There's something about times like this, with him at the age of four, that I really start to feel the pressure of the clock and calendar pressing in on me. I can still see him in my mind's eye the day he was born and we were so happy, scared, and unsure of the future. I remember him learning to crawl and to walk and to talk. And now, well, now there's no stopping him.

Just the other night as I finished tucking him in he asked if I would lay there with him for a few minutes before going out of the room. Finding it hard to say no, I lay there with my son in my arms. My heart simply melted and I told him, "Hey buddy, I just want you to know that I love you so much" and I hugged him to me tight. Tears pressed against my eyelids and I just held him.

There is an immense sense of pressure that comes with being a father. Yet, there is also a tremendous reward. I so desperately want to be the kind of father that my son and daughter can look to with pride, smiling and with faces beaming, saying to friends, "That's my Dad!" I want my kids to know that they are loved above all else by God and their parents, and especially by me. I want them to know that there is nothing they can do to make me not love them with all of my heart.

I kind of feel like I needed to just unload that right now. Thanks for letting me.

Review: Black Snake Moan: Music from the Motion Picture - Various Artists

Here's another review I did for INFUZE, this time of the soundtrack for the new Sam Jackson flick, Black Snake Moan. It's a great listen, particularly for fans of delta blues. And you'll have to read the review to find out what I think of Jackson's own singing!

Black Snake Moan: Music from the Motion Picture - Various Artists

Review: Glory Revealed - Various Arists

Interesting new collaboration along the lines of City on a Hill and Songs from the Voice. Here's the review I did for INFUZE:

Glory Revealed - Various Artists

Review: Sex God - Rob Bell

Review I did for INFUZE of pastor Rob Bell's new book. Good stuff. Not quite what I expected but equally thought provoking and applicable.

Sex God - Rob Bell

Tell the Truth

I mentioned in an earlier post that I've been spending some time, when I can find it, reading some books on writing. In addition to it being the advice of a friend, I simply thought that if I really want to do this writing thing, maybe getting some pointers is a good idea. So, I've been reading Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird and just finished reading Stephen King's On Writing. Both books were exceptional, funny, witty, and very practical. Ironically, both were incredibly encouraging as well. Writing is oftentimes a solitary occupation with few rewards save the joy of doing the work and any encouragement, even from a book, goes well in my book.

In the reading, I noticed two common threads that both authors seemed to harp upon. The first item was that in order to develop, to grow, and to truly become a great writer, one must write. Whoa. This is crazy stuff. But the simple fact is that its true. The old adage holds true here as well: "Practice makes perfect." Besides, you never know what gems might burst forth in practice. So, I'm working on that. I'm doing all that I can to make time, even when it looks like there's no time to be had, in order to simply write. And, the truth is, the more I do it the more the ideas and drive are coming. It's a little bit disturbing but its also very, very cool.

The second thing that both authors emphasized was that in order to be a good writer you must tell the truth. This isn't to say that you don't write fiction or that you don't embellish at times but simply that you write from what you know. You tell the truth. The trick, and Lamott really hit home hard on this one, is that in order to tell the truth, that also means that you've got to be willing to tell the truth about yourself. You've got to be willing to open your soul to the world for each and every one of your characters will in some way or another carry a piece of your DNA. They are a part of you, like it or not, and you've got to learn to write the truth.

I'm not sure that I'm ready for all that yet but at this point it doesn't really seem to matter. I've come this far and I'm not turning back. I hope I get better. I hope somebody reads my work and likes it. I guess we'll see.

Review: Five Score and Seven Years Ago - Relient K

Here's one I did for INFUZE of punk-pop quintet, Relient K. Definately an album worth picking up if you like that style...

Five Score and Seven Years Ago - Relient K

Review: Some Loud Thunder - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah

Here's a review I did for INFUZE of indie faves Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's newest album. At times a bit too experimental but repeat listens help a whole lot...

Some Loud Thunder - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah

Interview with Joanne Cash

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Joanne Cash (you might be familiar with her older brother) and learn about her stories, as well as discuss her newest project, Gospel, for INFUZE. Please check it out!

Interview: Joanne Cash

Review: Gospel - Joanne Cash

Here's a review of an album by Johnny Cash's little sister, Joanne, that I did for INFUZE. A bit southern gospel with a dash of country. It's real gems are the three tracks she shares with him...

Gospel - Joanne Cash

Review: All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone - Explosions in the Sky

Great album from these post-rock pioneers. Here's the review I did for INFUZE:

All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone - Explosions in the Sky

A Romantic at Heart

This past Valentine's Day, just a little less than a week ago, I gave my beautiful wife a variety of gifts. Candy, flowers, and such were the truck that she found passed her way along with the requisite card. Actually, eight cards but who's counting. Amongst these many baubles was a small booklet I'd found, containing a variety of "cute" coupons that she could have and give to me over the course of time. Being a more sensitive male, I steered clear of the one I saw that was virtually all possessed with bedroom play and instead opted for the sweet, sensitive one which contained such tasks as breakfast in bed, foot rubs, and walks on the beach. What was I thinking?

Well, either way, I gave it to her and now I've got to be that oh-so-romantic man and step up to the plate. Just this past Sunday eve she passed along to me my first task, the task of writing a love poem to her. Now, let's just be honest: I'm not a poet. I've run across some old poems, love and otherwise, that I penned in my earlier days and, to tell the truth, they're awful. It's a sad commentary on how bad the offerings were at my high school which allowed these oozing pages of drivel to find their way into our student publications. But, I digress. I'm a man of my word, and I'm hoping it doesn't completely backfire on me, but here's a little poem, albeit rough, that I've composed for my sweetheart.

Untitled (I'm never very good with titles although if I had to drop one on this I guess I'd call it "A Day of Love")

Morning dew gathers upon silken petals

and feathered flocks take to a dim-lit sky

growing bright

Bright with hopeful rays of sunshine

but none so bright as the

Joy which she's brought to me.

Dappled oaks tremble in a noonday breeze

mossy boughs wavering

Signaling approval as the lovers

rest beneath their shade

The sound of laughter echoes

from the clear stream beside

But none so pure

as she's brought to me.

Pinks and oranges slowly fading to purple

casting curious images upon an eventide skyline

Gentle roaring waves, soothing, strong

caress the shoreline

Velvet sand soft between our toes

gazes meet as lips join

The most beautiful embrace to me.

I don't care who makes fun of me for tossing up poetry, I love you, sweetheart!

This is Priceless!

You just can't appreciate this until you've read the story!

Man Breaks Into Home Over Porn Screams!

The Boy's an Animal!

I love Tyler's eyes on this picture!

Behold the Pop-Tart!

A Face You Can Trust?

For those of you who may be unaware, I have been a white, Caucasian male my entire life. On top of that, I've grown into a rather big guy. I stand somewhere around 6' 3-4", and weigh in at, well, let's just suffice it to say that I fill out my frame pretty good. Over the past several years, I've opted for a bit of a full goatee to fill out my face and hide my babyface. During this time, I've never, at least in my estimation, been discrimated against or really even looked at twice. On this past Monday that all changed.

Prior readers will recall that I currently languish in the world that is known as Christian retail. The good Lord has seen fit in His immense grace to provide me a position that provides for minimal interaction with customers but, on occasion, this protocol must be breached and I find myself asked to answer some questions or carry a large box out to an elderly lady's car. Traditonally, while this is not my most favorite time of the day, I'm okay with it. This leads me to Monday.

I was sitting at my desk, watching the clock at the bottom right-hand corner of my screen, willing the digital numbers to change more quickly, and I found myself summoned to our customer service area to help carry a package to someone's car. "No problem," I thought to myself and slowly, sleepily ambled over to the appropriate region of the store. I saw two older gentlemen standing at the counter, a medium-sized box before them. Almost immediately upon my entering their view, one of the gentlemen wrapped his arms around the box and said, "Let me see how heavy this is...Oh, it's no problem! I can carry this out!" I shrugged, smiled my assent, and headed back to watching the digits shift.

Not long after, the young associate who had summoned me walked back to my corner and shared, "That was weird, huh? They were going on and on about the one guy's arm not being able to carry it out and the other guy having some condition but when they saw you...!" I've got to say, this was a first. Sure I'm a big guy. Yes, I have the goatee which can tend to be a bit unruly. And yes, I'd neglected to shave for a few, okay, four days prior. But I work for a Christian bookstore! I was only left to sit and ponder. Was it me? Was it them? Hmmm....

Review: Something About Us - Michael O'Brien

I've been a fan of this guy for a long time, simply because he's got an amazing voice. This album has that whole Michael Buble/Tony Bennett thing going for it too! Check it out!

Something About Us - Michael O'Brien

Bird by Bird...

In my hiatus from blogging here, I've been spending my time doing all sorts of things like interviewing people with mixed results, working, wringing my hands as I ponder the future, and, oh yeah, reading. My friend, Matt, recommended that if I want to write it is probably a good idea to read some good books on the subject as well as just read in general. So, the holidays behind us, I've started to work on that.

The first book I picked up on the subject of writing was Anne Lamott's, Bird by Bird. This is a book I've been wanting to get for a long time but just never did. Lamott's Traveling Mercies changed and challenged the way I think about a lot and I was excited to see how she'd impact my thoughts on writing. Finally, I picked it up and here we are, finished and discussing it.

The book itself is great, offering solid advice accompanied by Lamott's signature wit and self-deprecation followed up with a big slice of poignancy here and there. She is one who truly loves the craft and wants to gift all who are willing to try with the tools and encouragement to take their pens in hand and put them to paper. If you're thinking about writing, if you are a writer, or if you're just curious about the whole process, this is a great book for you.

But that's not why I write this. In one of Lamott's chapters, she breaks out for just a moment, offering an example of how writers intrinsically have a message within their work. She's not advocating the world of "after school special" writing but rather the simple idea that we write to share our worldview and our thoughts. Inherent within are going to be value and moral judgements. It makes sense. As she shares this example, I was hit with the proverbial lightbulb going on. This was one of those things that just made me go, "YES! YES! YES!"

She writes:

"I'm not suggesting that you want to be an author who tells a story in order to teach a moral or deliver a message. If you have a message, as Samuel Goldwyn said, send a telegram. But we feel morally certain of some things, sure that we're right, even while we know how often we've been wrong, and we need to communicate these things. For instance, I used to think that paired opposites were a given, that love was the opposite of hate, right the opposite of wrong. But now I think we sometimes buy into these concepts because it is so much easier to embrace absolutes than to suffer reality. I don't think anything is the opposite of love. Reality is unforgivingly complex." (Note the italicized portion especially!)

Now, I'm going to leave you to think about that for a while. Stay tuned and I'll address my thoughts on it shortly!

My Little Miss Sunshine

Okay, I'm sure we've all been there. It's one of those times where you simply give your ascent to a friend or loved one about some random thing or circumstance because either (a) they're going to win the argument anyway or, (b) it's something you're just not that worried about one way or the other. This was me but a few short weeks ago as my wife approached me with the suggestion/declaration that we were going to enter our lovely daughter, Peyton, into the local Manatee County Fair baby contest.

"It'll be fun! She'll do so great! And we could win $100 AND free tickets to the fair next year!" she enthusiastically shared with me.

Apparently, I'm an idiot. I nodded, smiled, and thought nothing of it. Yet, the closer the days grew to the actual event, I began to have a few misgivings.

"Are you sure?" I asked, "Don't you remember our watching Little Miss Sunshine?" She'd simply laugh off my concerns and we'd go our separate ways on the issue.

Finally, we come to the day. We roll out of bed early and head over to the local fairgrounds. Actually, we're there before the fair actually opens because the pageant starts that early. Thankfully, the younger contestants were being judged first. So, we pull into the parking lot and proceed to gather our belongings to head on in. As we're doing so, we began to take notice that there are a bunch of cars already in the lot. And we're watching some of these folks gather up their belongings and kids. They're pulling virtual wardrobes out of the back of their cars, touching up their children's makeup as they head down the dusty trail to the large tent where the pageant is to be held. This was a cause for concern as we pushed our stroller toward the tent of doom.

It really should be taken as a sign when the tent we were headed to was directly across from a large livestock area which was used for the judging of cattle and swine. This irony was not lost on me as I pushed the stroller into the bowels of the tent and found a seat. My son squirmed and tugged and tried my every ounce of patience as I waited for Erin to finish checking Peyton in. I took the few moments I had between Tyler talking, poking me, or making a run for it, to look around and check out the competion. Upon doing so, I felt it was time to go.

Turning one way, I was a woman enter with a bundle of clothing, a child in tow, and a virtual pound of regalia she proceeded to begin applying to her child. Looking the other way only brought my eyes to a young lady, this one not much older than four or five, her hair up in curlers, as her mother adjusted her outfit and applied a bit of blush to her cheeks. There was no place to turn that really held any new view. I instantly began to feel sick to my stomach. This was not right!

Before long, it was time for judging. My wife stood in a long, long line of women and men with their prospective children as they were paraded before the board of judges. I won't lie; there were some cute kids. It's just that they were all dolled up and dressed up and made to look far more uncomfortable than any newborn or one year old should. These kids should have been crawling around, spitting raspberries at one another rather than being made to smile for the judging panel! And before long, the judging was over.

It was a short while and the judges reached their decision. I know it's a shock, especially after you see the picture, that Peyton didn't win. And truthfully, she didn't have a chance one way or another. We came to find out that there were a number of areas she could be entered in, best hair, best eyes, best outfit, and some other random ones as well. We only opted for best eyes because the kid's got some beautiful eyes and well, we're poor so ponying up more money for more categories to help fund the fair didn't really make sense. This automatically took her out of any real running outside of the entered category. Bummer.

Needless to say, we won't be entering Peyton into any more contests anytime soon. We'd just as soon have her recognized for just being a cool kid as opposed to being put up on a butcher block to be judged. What a world! We're a bunch of crazy people!

State of the Union

I am so, so, so very tired right now...

Needed Some New Backgrounds!

Review: Beautiful News - Matt Redman

This is a solid album but not Redman's best. Look for the songs to go big in churches though...

Beautiful News - Matt Redman

Review: Enter In - Chelsie Boyd

This is a great example of what happens when a young artist is seemingly being forced into a mold. The talent is clearly there but the album lacks heart.

Enter In - Chelsie Boyd

Review: Begin to Hope - Regina Spektor

I caught her video for "Fidelity" on VH1 one day and decided I had to pick up the album. I'm glad I did.

Begin to Hope - Regina Spektor

Review: Nashville - Solomon Burke

This is an amazing album and, had I heard it in 2006, would have had it on my Top 10 for the year!

Nashville - Solomon Burke

Review: Live at the Ryman - Marty Stuart

I'm pretty stoked that in a couple of days I'll be getting to do a phone interview with this legend. This live recording showcases the best that is Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives!

Live at the Ryman - Marty Stuart

Review: Like Red on a Rose - Alan Jackson

I know what you're thinking, "Alan Jackson?!" But give this one a shot. This is not the Jackson of old. Rather, he makes a nice turn and offers up some unconventional country on this release. Well worth your time.

Like Red on a Rose - Alan Jackson

Review: Johnny Cash Live in Ireland DVD

Great stuff from the Man in Black.

Johnny Cash Live in Ireland DVD

Secret Confessions

Okay, I have a brief confession to make. I suppose it's not so much a confession as it is a secret desire. Don't worry kids! This is totally PG but it's something that I've thought quite a bit about, the sadness of which will strike you later. Ready? Okay, here goes:

You know those machines that you find in your local grocery stores or pharmacies? The one's that they have their for you to check your blood pressure because you're bored out of your mind while you wait for your prescription to be filled? Okay, have you ever just happened to be in the store as people were sitting down in them? Keep in mind the instructions listed on the machine. "Do no talk during the procedure." "Do not move during the procedure." "Do not breathe during the procedure." Okay, maybe the last one's a stretch but you get the drift. So, these people are locked into these modern-day torture devices, and I do mean locked in, and you happen upon them. Even better, you happen upon them from behind. Now, my secret desire is this: To just run up from behind them and scare the living crap out of them, old or young. I want to freak people out.

Is this sick? Um, probably. Would it be funny? Um, yes. Will I do it? I'll never tell...

Kids Pics

Review: Floating World - Anathallo

Here's an album that you simply must hear! One of my top 5 of 2006!

Floating World - Anathallo

...And What Have You Done?

This is the question that has been bouncing around my head during the holidays and as we enter into a new year, courtesy of John Lennon and Yoko Ono as posted earlier.

What have you done?

It's a powerful question that has caused me to reflect back upon the year that has quickly faded and forward to the days charging toward us. Please allow me a few moments to share.

2006 was a very interesting year for us as a family. It brought to us the amazing gift of our beautiful baby girl, Peyton Brooke, as well as some solid milestones for us as well. Both Erin and I finally completed our bachelor's programs and will walk in May of 2007. I also continued to grow in my understanding of the faith, particularly in terms of the ancient church, and discovered a great collaborative friendship with my friends Richard and Fred. Renewed friendships also abounded as my good friend, Celena, and I picked up where we left off and have carried on. I found my passion for writing renewed and provided a venue with an opening at Infuze as a reviewer. This opening has probably afforded the greatest opportunity thus far as well as a great new friend in Matt Conner.

Obviously, there was a lot of good in the year and we are so very thankful for those times and people. God has truly blessed us with so much and we cannot say thanks enough.

Yet, even in the good times, a little rain must fall. 2006 saw the pulling back of certain friendships as well as continued dissonance with the insitutional church as a whole. Those two issues have certainly left an asterisk on the year, leaving me with questions. Friendships, I understand, will come and go as life ebbs and flows. Life situations will draw people together and apart as the time goes. I understand this but it still doesn't assuage the sadness within at the passing of the baton.

Yet, perhaps the toughest thing in the past year has been my struggle to come around to pushing ahead, to doing something. Renewed fervor for the church has eluded me yet I realize that to truly be whole it is something I need to dive back into. In addition to that struggle, I'm more and more convicted and convinced that 2007 is to be our year to strike out at the injustices of the world, offering our finances, support, and prayers to fighting for whatever causes we can, local and global. 2006, in hindsight, was a year spent in thought, cynicism, frustration, and busyness by and large and I aim to not make that mistake in 2007.

Review: How to Grow a Woman From the Ground - Chris Thile

Another review into the hopper. Great album from the Nickel Creek frontman.

How to Grow a Woman From the Ground - Chris Thile