< ben's blog >

Look Over Here!

2009-03-17T17:13:00.002-05:00

Dear Readers,

Please check out my new blog on the WordPress format. I am doing some hands-on learning with different blogging software and wanted to get your thoughts on which you as a reader prefer.

Thanks a million!

www.benmclain.wordpress.com

Cletus Take The Reel - Tim Hawkins

2009-03-16T15:45:00.003-05:00

This is pure genius from Tim Hawkins! I'll never listen to that song the same way again!

Yeah, I've Been There!

2009-02-05T16:05:00.005-06:00

Back From Vacation!

2009-02-03T17:05:00.000-06:00

Stories and pictures coming soon!

Logic Test

2009-01-06T13:22:00.001-06:00

Arm Chair Logic Test - I scored 14/15, but since when has anyone I've known ever been logical?

I Can't Wait

2008-12-16T15:34:00.003-06:00

I love [ this guy ] and his sense of humor. I know you will enjoy his Countdown to Christmas! Everyone Sing..."On the First Day of Christmas..."

"H" v. "F" - Call It Like It Is

2008-12-10T10:40:00.004-06:00

This was brought to my attention recently. I support the site and what they stand for, but this particular article I just could not help but to comment. "H's" instead of "F's"? Seriously? This is just another in a long line of Americans becoming soft on the issues (and by issues - I mean any issues). I am so tired of tip-toeing through my days in hopes of not offending someone or worse - hurting their poor little feeling. Boo-Freaking-Hoo. Then I come across this. Ahhhh! To all those who think this is a good idea, you get a big fat "F".

Word of the Day: Offal

2008-12-08T16:21:00.009-06:00

At least it sounds yummy, that is until you look it up. Thanks Merriam Webster! Also thanks to ~db~ for the photo.

Random Rundown

2008-12-08T16:16:00.003-06:00

Listening to: _Kings_Of_Leon - Only By The Night
Watching: Chuck, Could You Survive, (and LOST in a month)
Surfing: Buzzfeed, Facebook & Live 100.5
Eating: Milo's, Starburst & Ice Cubes

Wah Wah Wah Waaaaahh.

2008-12-05T16:57:00.002-06:00

These are great! Enjoy the next time you are at work, home or any other place with an overhead paging system, speakers and Internet access. Did I just imply my house has overhead speakers and a paging system? I guess you'll never know.

Sad Trombone

Instant Rimshot

The Pied (sp?) Piper

2008-12-04T16:53:00.005-06:00

Not that it is a requirement to read the cutting insights and humorous stories which flow from my unbridled mind - but there is a link over there to the left << face="verdana">I promise not to lead you into a cult - I haven't prepared my compound yet...(jk).

As You Can See...

2008-12-03T13:46:00.003-06:00

As you can see, with no posts in the month of November - my year-end parade of events has kicked into full swing. December shows no signs of slowing and January is the big vacation - which will be well-needed by then. I promise myself to post more...how do you make a ASCII picture of fingers crossed...?

Volcano Tacos, Axe Body Spray & Subway!

2008-10-31T12:56:00.002-05:00

Dyed taco shells? Axe doesn't work? Eating food makes you gain weight! This kid is a genius (& I LOVE HIM!). Great delivery, cutting insights. Sadly, he is more aware of ad tricks than half of America! Go little guy, Go!

Fav Line: I Know Guys Who Have Axe and That Does Not Happen!

Originally found at www.redspurs.com.

Christian Science Monitor

2008-10-29T10:19:00.002-05:00

C.S.M. is the leading the charge (even if it is somewhat forced) by closing it's print publication in April 2009 and going strictly on-line. The FUTURE is now!

BTW - They have great political cartoons (props to Clay Bennett)!

Rock 'n Row?

2008-10-28T17:02:00.003-05:00

AC/DC meets Excel? Sadly, I love Excel more than AC/DC, but only because Angus Young never helped me do a pivot table. So next time you crank up excel, just imagine the following lyrics...

"For those about to graph, we salute you!"

Also, I just really wanted to use that headline!

Build A Mii From Hol-Lii-Wood

2008-10-27T15:54:00.006-05:00

As you may know, I am enamored with the Wii. There is no doubt about it, but even now (many moons after the initial purchase) I am still finding fun things to do with it! The latest of which - highly customizable characters (Miis) modeled after famous people. After checking out a few sites, I have plenty to get started on.

www.famousmii.com/mii > Really good stuff!
www.gamercreated.com > Even Better Stuff!!

Mid-October?!?

2008-10-13T13:29:00.004-05:00

Mid-October and no post! Apologies abound. Have been busy of late - until blogging becomes my full-time job (anyone? companies need a blogger? corporate? hello?) Oh well, as I was saying - until blogging becomes "$" - then you will have to settle for random posts about random things.

Gospelr - Microblogging for Jesus!

2008-09-22T15:13:00.000-05:00

Hey Guys and Gals, Check out Gospelr. If you like Twitter, then you'll love this. If you have no idea what I am talking about, then smile and nod anyway! My screen name is "Ben" imagine that!

FOOSBALL + MEAT = GOAL!!!

2008-09-09T15:06:00.002-05:00

To this marketing masterpiece (and the geniuses behind it), let me just say "Well Done!". It's a pun - get it? Luckily this little gem is much more creative than my ill attempts at being punny.

Behold the Sauage vs. Sausage Foosball Table!

The small touches of making the floor resemble a grill pit is the stuff that makes me cry. And don't think that I didn't notice that you can't spell TEAM without M-E-A-T. I'm just surprised they didn't use that line. How perfect!

Juice Box Hero!

2008-09-08T14:59:00.002-05:00

What is the big deal? I do this everyday on my commute home (sucker included)! At least he wasn't on SNL or in Milli Vanilli. This is too cute! As seen on VideoSift...

Juicebox Hero!

The Go Plate!

2008-09-04T13:33:00.003-05:00

This is almost as handy as the tailgate itself. I am all for anything that makes college football in the South better (as if that is even possible). Bring on the wings!

The Go Plate!

Too Much Even For Me...

2008-09-04T13:31:00.002-05:00

Krispy Kreme Burger = Disgusting

Original by Flickr User ccavines Here

Noah's Ark!

2008-09-04T13:12:00.002-05:00

Wow! Just enjoy. This is impressive no matter what you believe. Just imagine if it was like a mini zoo inside, with real animals, a petting zoo, aquraium, etc...! I would totally love to check this out next time I am in Holland (which would be the first time I would be in Holland - but whatever.)

The Original Dutch Noah's Ark Site

Lots More Pics of The Dutch Noah's Ark

Great Harry Carey

2008-09-03T16:06:00.003-05:00

This impression certainly rivals that of Will Ferrell's. Way to go Ohman (you were also on my fantasy team this year). Will Ohman does Harry Carey!!!

Great Shirts

2008-09-03T14:21:00.004-05:00

Here are just a few t-shirts from Please Dress Me which basically grabs and compiles them from all over the web. Below are a few of my faves... It is never too early to start thinking about gifts for me for the 1st day of Autumn (Aug 22 BTW) or Mexican Independence Day (Aug 16). Either one...

My Plea For America

2008-09-03T14:14:00.002-05:00

To anyone with common sense, this post will not concern you - but to all the others in America (and there are a bunch of you) please use some appearance of intellect when casting your vote for the leader of the free world come election time. Whether it is Obama / Biden or McCain / Palin - make sure your vote is a vote for the leader who most closely resembles your beliefs and hopes for America. Forget personal histories, past mistakes, media-induced panics - and use your vote for you! That is all, now back to funny videos and goofy internet happenings. Thanks.

Paintball Mona Lisa

2008-08-29T12:04:00.004-05:00

This may be the coolest thing I've seen all day (heck - all week for that matter!) So, I already love Mythbusters on the Discovery Channel (thanks DVR), then I came across this clip via Buzzfeed. Just watch and be amazed.

Mythbusters Mona Lisa Demo

Da Vinci be Darned!

Alabama Crimson Tide Football

2008-08-28T12:44:00.003-05:00

I've waited all year to use that headline, and since the Tide's first game is just 2 days away what better time to post about some good 'ol southern, smash-mouth football. But instead of the usual player breakouts, emotional breakdowns and not-yet-broken hearts - how about a goofy list!

The Top 5 Things To Do This Saturday During The Alabama Crimson Tide vs. South Carolina Clemson Tiger Game.

#1. Come Up With a Shorter Title for This List
#2. Call Your Friends After Every Play and "Ask What Down Is It?"
#3. Twitter About How You Could Have Made That Catch
#4. Pause and Rewind the Game to Catch Players in a Funny Position or Tackle
#5. Watch 1/2 the Game, Eat and Then Fall Asleep on the Couch

Go Tide!

LOST Countdown Timer!

2008-08-26T14:18:00.004-05:00

Get your very own LOST countdown timer. Time until Season 5...

Fantastic Contraption!

2008-08-26T12:44:00.002-05:00

This maybe my new favorite puzzle game (online at least) since I'm still lovin' the Kakuro. Use your brain for something beside skull stuffing and see how far you go. Warning: Mission to Mars is pretty tough!

The Fantastic Contraption

Spaghetti Cat

2008-08-20T16:22:00.002-05:00

Much like this post, this clip makes no sense yet still makes me laugh!
Meatballs?

$5 Footlongs!

2008-08-19T17:12:00.006-05:00

A great cartoon from Left Handed Toons (check 'em out in my big fat link list to the right) and here's one of my favorites below!

"Unnecessary Dairy Overlap"

Live 100.5

2008-08-19T11:44:00.005-05:00

Let's all welcome to B'Ham "Live 100.5 - Birmingham's Modern Music". So far, so good. I have been listening all morning at work and I must admit they don't suck. Keep it up Dave Rossi! You just might replace "The Vulcan" on my dial. Web is still under 94.5, but I'm sure they will be swapping shortly!

Listen Now!

Google Insights

2008-08-18T16:18:00.003-05:00

Brilliant! Okay maybe not "theory of relativity" brilliant, but cool nonetheless.

So, I have been playing with Google's new tool (still in beta), but I have a feeling Google Insights could (and will) be huge! It scares me that MySpace ranked so high in searches, but aside from highlighting the downward spiral of America's youth - it is a pretty neat little tool.

Search by state, country, term, time frame - anything! Find top related searches, comparisons, the movers and shakers as fas as search terms go...basically just dive in and play around a while. Then come back here a leave a few comments (in a week or so - if you can tear yourself away).

Check 'em out!

Please Invite Me On This Show!!!

2008-08-18T15:53:00.007-05:00

So today via a blurb on AdAge.com I came across my new favorite foreign TV show (just below Ninja Warrior of course)...it is "The Gruen Transfer" out of Austrailia. The format is basically an irreverant round table discussion of ads from ad professionals. They also have a part of the show called "The Pitch". Instead of 5 more paragraphs praising the show, go watch it in full on their website.

It's Awesome!

Awesome Video - Who Am I?

2007-08-06T11:22:00.002-05:00

The Unknown

2007-07-24T14:04:00.000-05:00

The Unknown. Sounds like a scary B-movie, but the only thing scarier is the "actual" unknown. Wether it is the unknown of death and after life, or simply the unknown of a blind date, not knowing is tough. And waiting while you don't know is tougher.

I can use the prayers next time you kneel. Thanks and God Bless.

Neat.

2007-07-16T16:42:00.002-05:00

Here is where I made my old blog header. Neat little place where you can spell out anything you wish with Flickr Photos. Enjoy!

http://metaatem.net/words

The Great Web Crash of '07!

2007-07-13T13:07:00.000-05:00

Breaking News: All Online Data Lost After Internet Crash

Sweet Home Alabama!

2007-07-12T16:11:00.002-05:00

I love being from the South, I love being from Alabama and I love showing off the ol' homestead. So many times, the Heart of Dixie gets a bad rap or shown in a negative light. As a native, and someone who is proud of where they come from, I thought I would share a few of what I will now call "ALinks". Get it...? AL Links? Anyway, continue for just some of what AL has to offer.

Alabama Bureau of Tourism & Travel

Alabama - Wikipedia

al.com - Everything Alabama

North Alabama Photographers Guild

Defintely check out the NAPG (last link). Great shots of AL taken by Alabamians!!

Bunny Slope?

2007-07-10T14:48:00.000-05:00

I thought this was a nice little cartoon by Charles Addams (found at Neatorama).

Have a favorite cartoon, feel free to post it in the comments section! Enjoy.

Posting Bonaza!

2007-07-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

Keep reading for a recap of all things cool (and by all, I mean a couple of things I stumbled across while surfing the net)...

Periodic Table of the Internet

So Nice, They Animated Them Twice

The Origins of Symbols

Wear the Memories!

2007-06-26T09:59:00.001-05:00

For any collector of baseball cards, this post should bring back the memories. I can recall hours and hours of checking the "Beckett Baseball Guide" sitting in my bedroom floor with literally hundreds upon hundreds upon hundreds of cards all spread out by maker, year and team. Scouring the piles for Griffey Jr's, Ripkens and Chippers. So now instead of getting out the old, dust-laden shoe boxes, I can re-live the good times with > this! < Keep reading to hear about one of the "coolest" and "most unlikely" find in my collection.

So the story goes like this...My dad was hauling off some trash to the local dump. Upon his arrrival he began talking to a guy he knows. As they were talking, another guy in the bulldozer ran over several boxes of baseball and footbal cards. Dad saw them, flagged the guy down and all three men started to sort through them. Seeing as how the guy didn't run OVER the cards, they were still in excellent shape. Dad thought it might be worth something, so brought home a few boxes. After 5 hours on the back porch, I finally came across the find I was looking for, a Ronnie Lott Rookie Card ($20 then). I thought that would have been the best card I would find all day, until seconds later I found the Joe Montana Rookie Card ($45 then). So as they say, one man's trash is another man's treasure. I forgave my dad for bringing home trash as a present and still have both cards to this day.

Drama Chipmunk is Hilarious!

2007-06-21T10:26:00.000-05:00

That is just the greatest thing ever. Drama!!!

Welcome (Back)

2007-06-12T16:12:00.000-05:00

Welcome Back. If you haven't been here in a while, you may notice some changes. Keep reading for a recap.

Updated Color Scheme: I have either watched too much "Design on a Dime" or not enough! You decide.

Updated Format: 3 posts per page seems like very little, but it keeps it clean, plus there is that "older posts" button if you're really interested in what happened last week (or month).

Updated Amenities: Flickr Shots, The Hot List and Other Tidbits adorn the side, completing this compelling (rookie) web design.

Let me know what you think, via the comment button almost directly below here!

I Called It (American Idol Finale)!

2007-05-17T15:35:00.000-05:00

In homage to the Greatest American (Stephen Colbert if you didn't follow the link) and his balloon-laden celebration on the Colbert Report, let me say too...

I CALLED IT!

That's right. I called the American Idol Finale. I said waaay back (somewhere around the final 10) that Blake Lewis and Jordan Sparks would be the final 2 on American Idol. Of course I have no post or recorded converstion that proves I actually said it, but trust me...I called it. Let the balloons reign down and the confetti fly!

Aside from the pitiful season 6 of AI, Blake and Jordin have been the high spots for me. I will be completely happy with either one winning. I am just sad that Chris Sligh will not get to make David Hasselhoff cry (but hey there is always "America's Got Talent" starting soon).

Go Blake or Jordin. Either way. Long Live Taylor Hicks and Rueben Studdard!!

Happy Birthday (To Me)!

2007-05-17T11:18:00.001-05:00

So yesterday (May 16th) was my birthday. Nothing exciting, but I thought it waranted a post. So Happy Birthday to ME!

My Gift: A New Episode of LOST! Charlie's Greatest Hits. I loved the episode because I felt like the writers got back to the "human drama" of LOST as opposed to the "Four Toed Statue" and Invisible People.

My (Actual) Gift: Amy had cookies from Edgar's delivered to the office. They were gooood. As I told a friend of mine, if you don't know Jesus, these cookies will introduce you to him. Heavenly!

Yea for turning 26 (I guess)?! Only 29 more years until discounted coffee at Jack's.

Math Game!

2007-05-17T11:08:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know you are not killing aliens, or blowing up buildings - but it is a "game" nontheless. Stay sharp and work out your brain for 5 minutes and you will thank me when the McDonald's drive-thru short changes you out of your $10 or $20 and you can tell before you leave the parking lot.

4 Favorites!

2007-05-15T13:09:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few of my favorite links over the past few days. Enjoy!

1. Vintage Coca-Cola Ads

2. Now Featuring!

3. Cool Cards

4. Optical Illusion

Nothing else to read...so you actually don't have to.

JASPER, ALABAMA!

2007-05-03T08:58:00.000-05:00

ZOMG WTF LOL !!

Ok, so the best show ever invented (LOST on ABC) just so happened to mention my home town last night on the episode entitled "The Brig". It was when Sawyer confronted Locke's Dad (Anderson Cooper - a.k.a. Tom Sawyer).

Sawyer (Ford) asked Sawyer (Cooper) if he had even been to Jasper, AL? I almost shot milk out of my nose!!! That's my hometown!

Does this mean that Sawyer and I were born in the same hospital? How cool! So much props and a HUGE shout out to LOST and the writers for including Jasper, AL!!!

Black & White #1

2007-04-12T16:16:00.000-05:00

Just some of my B/W photography. Enjoy!
.

Faith Through Fire Youth Rally

2007-04-10T14:25:00.000-05:00

_______________

Just a quick head's up for anybody still checking my blog. (I'll apologize later for not posting in over a month or two.) Hopefully the lack of posting will take a turn for the better coming up! But back to the reason for the post...

New Bethel Baptist (my church) - is having our First Annual Youth Rally this Saturday the 14th, @ 6pm. This year's theme is "Faith Through Fire" (see Zech 13:9 for our inspiration). So to all of you who may be reading this, I hope to see you there and ready to worship!

I also thought I would share the logo I created for the rally (see below)...

LOST...Shhhh!

2007-01-22T15:48:00.000-06:00

_______________

I came across this site a while back, and it is a shame I have not plugged it before now! www.darkufo.blogspot.com. "Dark" has all (and I mean ALL) of your LOST needs! Enjoy.

.

The Greatest Puzzle Ever!?

2007-01-19T16:10:00.000-06:00

Dear Blog Readers (or Breaders as I like to call you in my head),

I love me some puzzles!! I have just recently (re) ignited my love for sudoku. After about 10 or so puzzles, I came across a link to "Kakuro". Needless to say, I was intrigued! Kakuro is supposedly Sudoku's harder brother...and it is!! If you want a fun challenge I suggest Kakuro! Although it deals with numbers, there is very little math involved.

Challenge your (dumber) friends and raise your self esteem! Although be careful, because there is a slight risk of head explosion on the tougher levels!

Enjoy. www.kakuro.com

-- ben

Bankhead National Forest

2007-01-18T11:52:00.000-06:00

This was atop a 100ft waterfall in Bee Branch in the Sipsey Wilderness! It was breathtaking (but that was probably the 10 mile hike more than anything else)! Enojy!

The Rise of Fall

2006-11-08T16:34:00.000-06:00

A neat little picture I took! I felt like an ant...with a digital camera!

Keeping Up!

2006-11-08T16:30:00.000-06:00

In an effort to keep up with my blog, I thought all my millions of readers (you know: me and my 999,999 different personas) would enjoy a post!

So, just to give any wanderer-by a brief little summary, I have some big things coming up in the near future!

1. I am launching a new interactive website! (very cool and very fun)!

2. I am gearing up for Christmas (but not until after Thanksgiving)!

3. My blog design will change with the seasons / events!

4. And finally, the LOST season (fall) finale is tonight!!!

Enjoy and see you all soon!

A Beacon of Hope

2006-10-26T14:48:00.000-05:00

Photo of the Day #2

Photo of the Day

2006-10-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

Photo #1 in the new series "Photo of the Day"!

Halloween!

2006-10-25T12:52:00.000-05:00

In honor of the quickly approaching Halloween holiday - I thought I would spruce up the blog a little...festive huh? I have also made some other updates around the blog, including "This Week's Hot List" among other thing. Hope you enjoy the new look...and come back real soon!

-- ben

Haven't Forgotten!

2006-10-24T16:46:00.000-05:00

For the "0" people that read my blog - I haven't forgotten about (the lack of) you. So in an effort to quell the non-existant revolt over no posts, I offer this one.

I look forward to no posts about this.

Thank you.

2006-08-24T16:32:00.000-05:00

OK Go - Here It Goes Again

This is awesome!

Art

2006-08-08T14:57:00.001-05:00

In a recent conversation (of which I'll spare you), I said just because you put something in a museum doesn't make it art. With that quote, I got to thinking and hence this question...

If you could own any piece of "art" in the world what would it be?

Leave a comment so we can all make fun of your taste!

-- ben

To Be Continued...

2006-08-02T11:04:00.000-05:00

In efforts to hold to my posting resolution - here is today's post. I mean what is the point in having a blog if you don't offer something of value. Speaking on "Value" and "Continuing" ... how about this

Do you (the reader) consider it worthwhile to continue your education past a Bachelor's Degree?

or

Is a Master's Degree really worth it? and In What Field?

Discuss - if anybody even reads this thing!

-- ben

I Looked

2006-07-26T15:15:00.000-05:00

Ok - well I looked (in spite of my last post) and it has been 3 months to the day that I posted something. You would think that in that time events worth a post would have happened - but not so much.

However, I am more intrigued by the fact that it was 3 months TO THE DAY! I must get bored around the 26th of every month! Oh well.

'til next post...

- Ben

New Post - New Beginnings!

2006-07-26T14:44:00.000-05:00

Yes - you all have the right to not care what I post anymore - since I haven't posted in (I don't even want to look) - but it's been too long for sure!

So hopefully, over the next week or so - I can do some spring cleaning and get things straightened out again. Maybe post some more - and get some feedback - but that part's up to you!

Anyway - welcome back if you had me "bookmarked" - or welcome to any first timers!

...until next post...

- ben

New ADIDAS Videos

2006-04-26T14:06:00.000-05:00

Ok Everybody,

I must admit I am a huge fan of viral videos (Brooke "Burger Queen" Burke, Subservient Chicken, Etc...) - but even these new releases from Adidas have blown my mind.

There is NO product (as far as I can tell) and very very very little to do with shoes, but nonetheless - they are cool for whatever reason?

They are hard to explain - so instead just enjoy!

http://www.r213g037b053.net/

-- ben

Sermon City

2006-04-25T13:22:00.000-05:00

All,

I have created a new blog site dedicated solely to God related issues / thoughts / questions / etc...I hope to move all my sermons / thoughts to that site in the near future...feel free to visit us at...

http://sermoncity.blogspot.com

Thanks.

- Ben

Thanks to God...!

2006-02-10T09:16:00.001-06:00

Too many people don't give God enough thanks for all he does, and if they do then it is usually in church around other fellow believers...Well, how are people that don't go to your church supposed to know that you thanked God for his goodness?

I want to thank God for all he does for me! How wonderful He is to us, even when we aren't so wonderful to Him.

Accomplishments & Aspirations

2006-02-10T09:04:00.000-06:00

Hey Everybody,

Via a post on www.landonhowell.com, I came across the "101 List of Things I Want to Accomplish" by some AOL guy, yada...yada..yada...but it did get me thinking about my own list. Well, by no means do I have the time right now to come up with 101 things, so here is at least a start...wow I feel like a cheap copycay poster! Oh well...maybe that's one of the things on my list - 11. Don't Be a Copycat

1. Visit All 50 States

2. See the Pacific Ocean

3. Visit Another Country

4. Go to the Olympics

5. Have Healthy Children

6. Write a Book

7. Lead (More) Souls to Christ

8. Run My Own Marketing Firm

9. Have a Street / Building / Etc Named After Me

10. Own a Classic Corvette

In The Loop

2006-02-08T11:38:00.000-06:00

Guys and Gals,

I am starting to feel I am letting you (the readers of my blog) down. I haven't posted in a while - although I will take the easy way out and say I have been busy at work. Well, hopefully this little post will at least ease my conscious enough until I can get back in the habit. It is harder than it looks to keep on top of these things.

Anyway, that's all for now! Updates Forthcoming...!

--ben

My New Kitchen

2006-02-01T15:18:00.000-06:00

Hey Everybody,

Just thought I would share a mini "Extreme Home Make Over - Ben's House Edition". Here is just one of several shots of my new kitchen. I must say, "I absolutely love it". Yea!

--ben

Test One: Go Sox!

2006-02-01T15:14:00.000-06:00

So What Series: #3

2006-01-24T11:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I discovered Monday that I had a case of the strep throat all weekend. I haven't had strep since I was 10. You may ask "so what" as the series is so aptly titled...well the "so what" is...

The same cure for strep 14 years ago still works today...a shot, lots of rest, a day off and a rousing session of video games.

Ben = 1
Strep = 0

thanks xbox...! :)

--ben

Headlines: Jan 23, 2006

2006-01-24T11:36:00.000-06:00

Ford to Fire 30,000; Close 14 Factories
DaimlerChrysler to Cut White Collar Staff by 1/5

Those were just a few of the headlines that caught my eye this morning. If you have been watching the automobile industry for any length of time in recent years these headlines should come as no surprise. Being from Alabama, and especially since the introduction of the Mercedes, Honda, Toyota and Hyundai plants locating to our state, the automobile industry has become all the buzz around here.

What will it take to "wake up" these manufacturing giants? The way I see it, the problem is simple - they "got the big head." Ford and Chevy among others think that everyone wants to be uber cool by driving the largest possible land yacht across town, when in fact had they (the companies) been paying attention they would have seen the trend away from HUGE cars to more enviro-friendly alternatives.

I also blame all of you "land yacht captians". Do you REALLY need an 8 passenger vehicle when all you haul is your makeup bag and a copy of the latest People?

Anyway, I will keep driving my gas-sipper and continue to pull out of the gas station ahead of all you who have been standing there for 15 minutes waiting for the pump to go bone dry.

--ben

p.s. - maybe that's it...people are being exposed to incredible amounts of gas fumes while waiting to fill their excursion and in turn the fumes are making them think that $100 for a tank of gas is a good deal...! HA!

Headlines: Jan 18, 2006

2006-01-19T13:35:00.000-06:00

As an ongoing effort to keep this blog semi-current, I though I would just make a breif statement about the day's top (or bottom) news story - depending on what I feel at the time.

Disney to Buy Pixar...?
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/01/19/MNG93GPQ704.DTL&type=tech

I personally don't want to see this deal go through. Everything Disney touches recently seems to be jinxed. I love Pixar and don't want to see them get crushed in the politics of a corporation such as Disney. Let them (Pixar) continue to churn out mega-hit after mega-hit and leave "the man" out of it. However, my prediction is that Disney will buy Pixar and we can all put on our rubber boots to wade through the crap that will result from the buyout!

I also hope they don't change names...Pisney or Dixar? Both sound really gross...!

--ben

Staying Updated...!

2006-01-19T13:24:00.000-06:00

Not all my posts have to have a catchy series name (although I think it helps) or (makes me look like a nerd)...either way!

This posts is just to say what's up and get a feel for how many people visit this blog and what they want to see more of...and yes I know it is "my blog" but talking about me gets old quick. I am a firm believer in discussion so let's start some commenting around here...

I need something to get me out of this recent rut...ideas?

TALK PEOPLE!!!

--b

Sermon Series: #2

2006-01-12T14:51:00.000-06:00

Confidence in Church? - Philemon 1:10 & II Cor. 7:14

Confidence is defined as trust or faith in a person or thing, a trusting relationship, a feeling of assurance, the quality of being certain or without doubt.

We find two examples here of Paul writing to two different churches on two different occasions, about two different men – however both churches share one thing in common; Paul’s confidence. Now you have to ask yourself a as church (and church member) – would Paul, but more importantly God, have confidence in your church (or you)? In order to answer that – we need to know why Paul had confidence in the churches found here in the scripture.

I. Openness to Receive

A. Notice in (Philemon v 12 and 15) Paul asks the church to receive Onesimus into the fellowship of believers. Not only into the temporary home of the church but “to receive him forever.” Paul has faith and trust that Philemon and the church will receive Onesimus just as they would Paul if he came to the church. How many of us would be willing to receive someone who has done us wrong? We know that Onesimus was not just some prisoner in the same cell with Paul – he had a history with the people there in Colosse. I think we would be more willing to take in strangers than someone who had hurt us in the past.

B. Now notice in v.15 of II Corinthians Paul mentions the reception of Titus at Corinth. Here we know that through the testimony of Titus (about Corinth) Paul was encouraged and in turn was able to encourage the church. Through the reception of Titus (and the testimony of Titus about Corinth), Paul knew Corinth was upholding the commandments of God. See: Romans: 15:7 - Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God

II. Obedience in Righteousness

A. Paul also had confidence in these churches because of their obedience. Something we as Christians sometimes lack. In the letter to Philemon, Paul asks the church to receive Onesimus even as would receive Paul. Paul then goes on to thank them in advance because he has the confidence that the church will be obedient to the will of God. A lot of churches would stop there and think they have done their part – but notice Paul have faith that the church will do even more than he asks. How many churches are willing to do that?

B. Again we find that Titus has witnessed to Paul of the obedience of the church at Corinth. Could visitors or past members say that about your church? Paul says that Titus called to remembrance the obedience Corinth had. Can you call to memory the last time you were obedient to God – let alone someone else?

Simply put, Paul had confidence in these two churches because of three things –

1. Their Openness
2. Their Obedience
3. but most importantly THEIR confidence in GOD.
_______________________________________________________________

Philippians: 1:6 - Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Philemon 1:10 - I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: 11: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: 12: Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: ……… 15: For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; 16: Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? ……… 20: Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. 21: Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

II Cor. 7:14 - For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. 15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. 16 I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

So What Series: #2

2006-01-12T13:44:00.000-06:00

Hello All,

This is the 2nd post in the so what series...which in itself is reason enough to say so what. Anyway, I wanted to post today to make sure that I am keeping my "not just posting every two weeks" resolution.

Not much to say today, I just got back from Subway (which really hit the spot). I am trying to get motivated to finish my day - but it is not looking good. I mean I have plenty to do - just can't get started.

As not to bore you, I guess I can wrap it up! Leave a comment if so lead...and if not...peas...

--ben

So What Series: #1

2006-01-10T15:25:00.000-06:00

Ta-da,

Since I thought of another (S) to start a series with - I present the "So What Series" which I guess will entail things that will make you say "so what?"

I came up with the name first, so cut me some slack.

The "So What" technique is also useful in marketing (which I am in). So here is a little "so what" tid bit. When asking a question, you can find deeper meaning by asking "so what". When you start to dig down by asking what things "really" mean you being to find the actual meaning behind either the question or the answer.

Ex. Tide gets clothes cleaner. (so what)
Cleaner Clothes = Cleaner Looking Kids (so what)
Cleaner Looking Kids = Better Self-Esteem for Mom (so what)
Mom buys more Tide because she feels better about herself.

--ben

Keeping Track

2006-01-10T13:47:00.000-06:00

(Y)A'll,

I have tried to keep some sort of order with my posting, making it easy to navigate. So far I have 2 "categories" if you will. The Sermon Series & The Sound Off Series. Titles are pretty self explanatory. Enjoy.

--ben

Sound Off Series: #1

2006-01-10T13:43:00.000-06:00

Sound Off - The Book of Daniel

I am sure I am not the first and also sure I won't be the last, but I will still make a comment on NBC's new show (term used loosely); the Book of Daniel. I have already posted my comments elsewhere, but this is my first "post-show" comment, and I can safely say "Just as I expected".

Without pulling down the trusty thesaurus: I'll just say it was BAD. Kudos to the many affiliates who would not air the show. To you I say "thank you". To the advertisers who backed out of supporting the show...to you I say "smart move".

Here is a link to some reviews both good and bad. I will not tell you to not watch the show; that is your descision but I do encourage you to read the Bible and draw an educated response as to why you do (or do not) agree.

http://www.rateitall.com/i-551978-book-of-daniel--nbc.aspx

*Note: my ultimate breaking point came when a supposed man of God said "God D***".

--ben

Sermon Series: #1

2006-01-10T09:57:00.000-06:00

Prepare to Worship - I Samuel 7:3

I Samuel 7:3 – And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, if ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.

The definition of prepare is to make ready beforehand for a specific purpose. Therefore, before you begin to prepare, you must know for what you are preparing. In this case, the event dictates the preparation and the event is the worship of God. Thankfully, God has laid out the steps to prepare us for worship. *Key Thought - We need to prepare ourselves before we can worship God.

The 3 things we must do to prepare for worship. Remove Our Idols, Return to Our Lord & Renew Our Service.

I. Remove Our Idols – II Chronicles 19:3

The removal of our idols is up to us. Idol: one that is worshipped blindy and lacks substance.

II. Return to Our Lord – Isaiah 44:22

Be careful not to simply remove idols and replace them with more idols. Return to God.

III. Renew Our Service – II Corinthians 4:16

Serve God and only God, and serve Him in spirit and truth.

<<>>

God also give Christians a stern warning about being unprepared in Luke 12:47.

II Chronicles 19:3-
Nevertheless there are good things found in thee, in that thou hast taken away the groves out of the land, and hast prepared thine heart to seek God.

Isaiah 44:22 –
I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee.

II Corinthians 4:16 –
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

Luke 16:13 –
No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Romans 7:6 –
But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.

Luke 12:47 –
And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.

Beginnings

2006-01-10T09:23:00.000-06:00

Genesis 1:1 - "In the beginning..."

It was a good place to start for God, so it seems like the beginning is a good place to start for me too. Now the question is the beginning of what? For starters: this blog...

Welcome to my "official blog". I have a few different websites I tinker with as well as several accounts around places such as myspace and so on, but I don't have a central place that is soley dedicating to blogging. And yes, I know I am late as far as the trend goes, but if I was doing this to be trendy then I am sure it would only get updated every 2 weeks or so.

The key to communication is brevity, and since I have blown that out of the water so far, I will just say thanks for taking a look and I hope you will return. Since I really haven't given you anything worth returning for as of yet - let me say that I hope to turn this into an all inclusive little slice of blogville, usa.

Updates coming soon,

-- ben