Haven't we all felt this way?

One day while walking down the street a highly successful Human Resources Manager was tragically hit by a bus and she died. Her soul arrived up in heaven where she was met at the Pearly Gates by St. Peter himself.

"Welcome to Heaven," said St. Peter. "Before you get settled in though, it seems we have a problem. You see, strangely enough, we've never once had a Human Resources Manager make it this far and we're not really sure what to do with you."

"No problem, just let me in," said the woman.

"Well, I'd like to, but I have higher orders. What we're going to do is let you have a day in Hell and a day in Heaven and then you can choose whichever one you want to spend an eternity in."

"Actually, I think I've made up my mind, I prefer to stay in Heaven", said the woman

"Sorry, we have rules..."

And with that St. Peter put the executive in an elevator and it went down-down-down to hell.

The doors opened and she found herself stepping out onto the putting green of a beautiful golf course. In the distance was a country club and standing in front of her were all her friends - fellow executives that she had worked with and they were well dressed in evening gowns and cheering for her. They ran up and kissed her on both cheeks and they talked about old times.
They played an excellent round of golf and that night went to the country club where she enjoyed an excellent steak and lobster dinner.

She met the Devil who was actually a really nice guy (kind of cute)and she had a great time telling jokes and dancing.

She was having such a good time that before she knew it, it was time to leave. Everybody shook her hand and waved goodbye as she got on the elevator.

The elevator went up-up-up and opened back up at the Pearly Gates and found St. Peter waiting for her.

"Now it's time to spend a day in heaven," he said. So she spent the next 24 hours lounging around on clouds and playing the harp and singing. She had great time and before she knew it her 24 hours were up and St. Peter came and got her.

"So, you've spent a day in hell and you've spent a day in heaven. Now you must choose your eternity,"

The woman paused for a second and then replied, "Well, I never thought I'd say this, I mean, Heaven has been really great and all, but I think I had a better time in Hell."

So St. Peter escorted her to the elevator and again she went down-down-down back to Hell.
When the doors of the elevator opened she found herself standing in a desolate wasteland covered in garbage and filth. She saw her friends were dressed in rags and were picking up the garbage and putting it in sacks.

The Devil came up to her and put his arm around her. "I don't understand," stammered the woman, "yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and a country club and we ate lobster and we danced and had a great time. Now all there is a wasteland of garbage and all my friends look miserable."

The Devil looked at her smiled and said ...

"Yesterday we were recruiting you, today you're an Employee."

California - Day 5

• Well this ended up being the last day in CA. The meeting that was supposed to last all day was over by noon. So I called the travel agent to see if I could come home a day earlier, because I miss my sons (see comment on previous blog) and their mother.
• The journey from Alameda north to Sacramento was going to be tight time wise, so I had to go kind of fast sometimes (forgiveness was asked for any time a speed limit was broken by more than 10 MPH (which was a lot)
• At this tunnel outside of Oakland the traffic went from 4 lanes to 2 lanes so lost a lot of time waiting.
• The plane was supposed to leave at 1:45 PM, and as that time approached, I knew that in spite of my NASCAR type driving, I was not going to make it. So I started praying that if I was supposed to come home tonight the Lord would have to delay the take off of the plane.
• When I turned in my rental car, there was a problem with the receipt, so I had to go inside, where they were training someone new, which took more time.
• Finally got on the shuttle and the driver kept waiting and waiting to let more people get on.
• The United stop was the 3rd of 4 stops putting my farther behind.
• Got into the terminal at 2:10 PM, walked to the counter and asked what my options were because I had missed my flight and it was the last United flight out of there today.
• The guy looked at the computer screen and said, "It's just now starting to board"!! I said "PRAISE THE LORD!!!".
• I hurried down and made the flight with time to spare. I am writing this in Chicago waiting for the flight to Columbus. I told Angela this story and also said that if anything happens to me between now and the time I get home, it was definitely God's plan for me today!!
• It was a good week with making new friends, eating great food, and seeing some amazing sites, but glad to be home

Day 3 & Day 4

• Day 3 went very well, met with the team all day, helping them work on their ability to work together as a team. There seems to be some interpersonal issues, that surfaced, but the team was very honest and dealt with them well.
• We went to dinner at a restaurant on Fisherman's Wharf. Small place but good food, had shrimp & crab stuffed ravioli. Too full for dessert!
• Day 4 was supposed to conclude early, but several issues came up that kept the team there until after 5:00 PM. They all left and headed back to Fairfield, 2 hour drive.
• I finally got some free time. So I took the famous 17 mile drive down the coast. Saw lots of very pretty coast and ocean scenes, but it was kinda cold. Afterwards I drove down to Carmel and walked around downtown. It was a lot like downtown Granville, only more expensive and less people speaking English. Walked by lots of people speaking different language, but I remained calm, got Angela a present and made my way back to the hotel.
• Did not see anyone famous.
• Finally got to check my work email and had 46 emails!! Spent almost rest of evening getting caught up.
• Tomorrow I drive to Alameda, CA for meetings and then back to Sacramento for a 6:00 AM flight home on Friday.
• Cannot wait to see my baby doll!!!!!!!

Califormia Day #2

• The 2nd day started by meeting the Fairfield, CA plant staff and touring the the facility. They make bars (Zone and Glucerna primarily). It is the smallest of all the plants in our division with only 200 people.
• After leaving the plant, I stopped at the Jelly Belly jelly bean factory which is right across the street from the Abbott plant. Did not have the time to take the tour, but went into the visitors center and bought some jelly beans, Angela does like them so I can share her part if it anyone is interested.
• Then drove about 2 hours southwest to Monterrey, CA right on the ocean. My room has a partial view. I guess there was famous old book written about Cannery Row here, but if I read it I forgot it.
• The whole group went to dinner at a seafood place on the ocean and they made me order the lobster, it also came with shrimp and scallops, so I was very happy we had to walk a little to get back to where we parked. IT WAS VERY GOOD!

California - Day #1 - random thoughts

Yesterday was a very long day. Flying from Columbus to Chicago to Sacramento (6 hours in the air) then drive 1 hour to Fairfield, CA, UGH!

• Heard church was great, thanks to Billy for teaching for me, hope someone remembered to turn the coffee pots off.
• Never have flown into this part of California before, the airport is about 10 miles from civilization, completely surrounded by farms and fields, very pretty though.
• Traffic was nuts even at 6:00 PM local time (9:00 PM in O-H-I-O). 3 lanes each way going about 75 MPH both ways on I-80. Rental car is a little Ford Focus and it was doing about all it could to keep up.
• Hate that i missed the Browns game, it figures, the game I miss is when they score 51 points! Brady who?
• Sat next to guy with a Michigan shirt on the flight, made sure they kept sharp objects away from him.
• Very nice room, has a "comfort" bed so you can dial in the firmness you want, almost made up for not having my baby doll (Angela, if you did not know) sleeping next to me. Missing her already, but Brandon came home so I am sure she will be busy today, anyway.
• Getting ready to go to the Plant today, will have a day #2 report later.
  

POWERFUL!!! (must pause music player on right)

Random update 9/4/2007

What a weekend, it was great but very busy.

• On Saturday we had our CONNECT group over for a tailgate party to celebrate the beginning of football season. It was a GREAT day, supposed to last until 4:00 PM but went on until after 8:00 PM. We had a lot of fun with cornhole, eating, talking, and eating again. Angela made a Buckeye cheesecake that was gone by the end of the day to tell you how good it was.
• Good day = All OSU fans, Bad day = Mississippi State fan (DD) and Michigan fan (SH).
• Sunday was also very good. Drason shared from his mission trip with the church to Maine, class was good as well. Had a family thing rest of the day with perfect weather, and more good food.
• Monday, another great day. Went to Swappers Day, think "Deliverance" yard sales, and you will get the picture. Went with Brandon, Blake, and John. Blake bought a semi-auto shotgun after taking up a collection from all present. We found a food booth that sells turkey legs that were HUGE!
• Last night Angela and I tried a new restaurant, The Grill, in the north end of town. Was really good and not too expensive. Came home and watched the Indians beat the Twins again.
• Today I found out Amanda had quit her job and was seeking God's new direction in her life. Prayt that God will their family's needs. (I think she could fill in for Dr. Phil when he is on vacation, but we will see.)
• Leaving for Chicago tonight for a couple of days
• Brandon and Corey may be moving out this week to their house in Columbus for school, so we might be empty nesters, until they come home again. They are growing up tooooooooooo fast. But I am very proud of all 3 boys. (so DO NOT do anything that not make me proud of you)
• No Boys will be Boys updates, yet, that I know of!

wish this was my little girl!

World Clock - Click HERE

Check this out! Ron & Angela both sent me this link

click the title above

Boys will be boys #5

A couple of Sundays ago, after we ate lunch, the boys went to Big Lots and bought some assorted water toys for the yard, a blow up swimming pool, 2 slip and slide things, etc. They played with them in the back yard with some neighbor kids.

Came home that night from church and everything was in the front yard with a hand made sign "Park Trails Public Pool" next to the blow up pool.

A little later, Angela just happened to be talking to a neighbor and the neighbor mentioned how much fun the boys had sliding into the pool. Angela had quizzical looks (as you could imagine) and the neighbor went on to tell her what happened.

Sunday night when we were at church, the boys took the slip and slide, put it on the stairs inside the house, put the blow up pool outside the front door, covered themselves with Palmolive dish washing liquid, and slide from the top of our stairs, out the door and into the pool!!!!!!!

Not only that, they videotaped it! I have not seen it, but they showed it to Angela and she about had a heart attack.

Apparently it was the talk of the neighborhood, with cars honking, neighbors stopping by for the show, etc.

I cannot wait to have grand kids and tell them all the interesting things there fathers did growing up!

And by the way, if anyone knows of anything our boys have done that we should know about, please let us know before we see the video!!!

Just catching up

Wow, I did not realize it was 7/11/2007 since I last updated my blog. At least I am not as bad as Pastor Dear, 6/25/2007 last update. I thought when Pastor Shawn got here his life would be easier? Sure DD is keeping him busy!!

Here is what happened since last update:

• Went to Chicago for 2 days worth of meeting, tried to fly back on the 6:15 AM flight, but flight was delayed 4 hours, so what else is new? almost always happens to me.
• Signed up to take a cruise with the family the week before Christmas, never been on one, but have wanted to for a long time. Found a great deal to the Western Caribbean for 5 nights
• Angela's sister Tammy had the great(?) idea to have a wiener roast last Saturday night! It was only about 85 outside, but she thought it would be fun? What was funny is she came to our house to cool down! Ended up being fine, cooled off very nicely when the sun started going down.
• Tammy got the twins and Brooklyn BB guns so they were entertained the whole time shooting empty coke cans
• Had the Salyer family reunion on Sunday (that was why we left church early, nothing wrong Pastor Shawn, it had nothing to do with the songs written in 15 sharps). Had a good time, Angela had to work, so she left early, I don't think she enjoys buffets of food, cooked by unknown people, sitting out on picnic tables on a hot day, too much.
• Brandon & Corey organized the family softball game and their team won
• My brother Jim and family came. Could not believe my nephew, Nathan, lost about 100 pounds! Looked like a different kid, much better.
• Having a great week at work, nice to get up, go to work, come home, eat Angela's food, for a change. Start traveling again next week to VA and then MI at the end of the month. Do I need a tetanus shot before crossing the Michigan border?

travel woes

I flew from Columbus yesterday through Chicago and on to Phoenix.

1. Flight was delayed leaving Columbus almost an hour due to the storm. Hasn't rained in almost a month, but when I am trying to fly out of town it storms
2. Flight leaving Chicago delayed 30 mins before boarding
3. Once boarding finally started we had to wait in the 90 degree, at least, Jetway, while the crew got a 95 year woman on her last leg settled in her seat.
4. As I was getting on I heard a yipping dog, I had a bad experience with dogs and planes once. I sat next to a lady with a dog that yipped for 4 hours!! She kept giving it these pills to relax it, she ended up giving it about 10 pills before it quieted down, hope the dog was OK.
5. Back to the story,
6. I am sitting right behind the elderly woman, the man who had the dog was the son-in-law of the elderly woman listed above, and he was sitting across the aisle from me, in the middle seat. The man between him and me was allergic to dogs and was making a BIG STINK about it.
7. Then a family gets on the plane, grandma, grandpa, mom and 2 little boys, all sitting apart from each other. Grandma sits next to me, grandpa was putting his crane in the overhead bin when he accidentally whacked the guy who was complaining about the dog, in the side of the head!!!
8. The guy gets even more upset, so now the flight attendant gets involved and musical chairs begins.
9. The guy with the dog switches places with grandma, so he is sitting on my right in the middle, with his wife, daughter of the old lady, right in front of him, dog under seat in front of him.
10. Grandma gets moved next to the guy complaining about the dog and getting hit in the head, and grandpa is now sitting right in front of her.
11. NOW the plane gets delayed for 2 hours on the runway due to a storm in Chicago! (see #1 above)
12. Finally, the plane takes off but only after the pilot comes back and checks the old lady out, I think he was seriously thinking about asking her to get off the plane, she looked that bad. Daughter got medicine and gave her some and she settled down.
13. Finally take off, dog is fine, old lady asleep, chair all the way back in my lap, bad guy finally calmed down, when 2 hours into a 3 hour flight the guy with the dog, gets out his cell phone and calls someone in Phoenix telling them they will be late!
14. Flight attendants come from both directions telling the guy he just broke federal law and telling him to turn it off. He does turn it off, claims ignorance and flight lands without a problem.
15. Get bag pretty quick, get to rental car fine, look at display on the car and it 8:00 PM and still 98 degrees outside!
16. Today coming back from the plant it was 109! Don't care if it is dry heat or not, 109 is HOT!
17. Gotta be an easier way to make a living!

The Bridge Builder

by Will Allen Dromgoole

An old man, going a lone highway,
Came, at the evening, cold and gray,
To a chasm, vast, and deep, and wide,
Through which was flowing a sullen tide.

The old man crossed in the twilight dim;
The sullen stream had no fears for him;
But he turned, when safe on the other side,
And built a bridge to span the tide.

"Old man," said a fellow pilgrim, near,
"You are wasting strength with building here;
Your journey will end with the ending day;
You never again must pass this way;
You have crossed the chasm, deep and wide-
Why build you a bridge at the eventide?"

The builder lifted his old gray head:
"Good friend, in the path I have come," he said,
"There followeth after me today,
A youth, whose feet must pass this way.

This chasm, that has been naught to me,
To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be.
He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;
Good friend, I am building the bridge for him."

This is my hope and prayer that I can be a bridge builder for my sons.

Some of the things they think are "old fashioned" today, are really the bridges we built based on the times we crossed the turbulent river.

Boys will be Boys #4

Tyler and Rachel were driving today from his Grandmother's house in Morehead, KY here today, when he spotted 2 puppy dogs on the side of the road. Being the good Christian boy he is, he stopped and picked them up. So now we have 2 more dogs, Tyler and Rachel for the week, so we have a house full.

Corey and Jeremiah also fell in love with the dogs, and noticed they had lots of ticks and burrs on them. Corey had the idea that after they took the tics off the dogs, they would burn them in a small coffee can. Things were going well until the fire went out and Corey had the bright idea to add GASOLINE to the embers!!! As I was screaming "No, Corey it will catch fire" you guessed the fire went from the coffee can up the gas pouring out into the gas can itself and started burning. Well Corey threw the can down (close to the house) as Tyler grabbed the hose and Corey tried to hook the hose up to the faucet, as everyone else took off running. Finally, the hose was hooked up and the fire was doused with only a small ring of burnt grass around the coffee can and a melted gas can to show for the excitement.

As Corey was telling Brandon the story, it reminded him of a time in Jackson, TN where he and his friend Will had a similar problem, but that time some of the gas got on the house and caught it in fire! (Sorry Donna and Lewis, I had not heard this story before). They got the fire out before much damage, but Brandon noted that there is still a mark on the house today!

boys will be boys #3

Banjo = $200

Decoys of woodland creatures = $100

Enjoying the warm sumer night with your friends = PRICELESS

Boys will be Boys #2

Had a GREAT Fathers day! Tyler called from Memphis early in the AM, Brandon gave me his present before he left for Napoleon, Ohio, and Corey slept on the couch all afternoon while I paid bills and balanced the checkbook!

• Tyler called today and said he was doing laundry recently and saw smoke coming from his clothes dryer! Seems like the clothes he was wearing while rebuilding his car were soaked with gasoline. Well the washer did not remove all of the gas and it spread to the other clothes, so when he put them in the dryer they caught fire! Luckily he was right there and was able to put out the fire before it spread.
• Still waiting on my Fathers Day present from Corey and Tyler. Corey said it was on the way but it was "complicated". (Found out today that "complicated" was a cash flow issue = too much cash out, not enough cash in), but I think they are in Columbus right now getting it.
• Brandon was bought a new TV and sold his old one to Corey and his old Wii to me. Has basement set up like a theater to watch it. Brandon has his paps wheeling and dealing genes in him. Pap would be proud.
• Both Brandon and Corey are doing very well in softball right now, Corey finally got moved to the outfield where his speed is a big plus. I am amazed at how fast my boys can run, I was never as fast as they are!

Neon is fading quickly, engine almost gone, needs to be replaced, but would cost more than I paid for the car. #1 prayer request = figure out what to do about a new car. Hate to buy a new car, but need something reliable. Tyler is going to try to work his car magic on it like he did on his car. Really have nothing to lose.

FINALLY, working in Columbus after 2 weeks in Chicago. Traveling is OK, but I miss sleeping next to my wonderful wife! She is much softer and sweeter than any hotel room will ever be! Glad to be home, unlike some people I know, I enjoy home cooking more then eating out!

I am thankful for a wife that loves to cook for her husband and family. Right now she is in bed reading her recipes preparing for Tyler's visit next week.

Pray for our CONNECT group, we have had a couple of visitors the last couple of weeks, one very strange one and one very nice one. Summer is a hard time for people with young kids due to sports, and vacations, but pray that remember their class cares for them and misses them when they are gone.

That's all for now, good night, and God Bless!

Boys will be boys

• Sitting in a hotel room in Chicago watching the Cavs trying to play basketball. They are losing by 5 points going into the 4th quarter
• Tyler rebuilt the engine on his car last weekend! That boy amazes me with his know how and willingness to do things I would never dream of doing. Replaced a few parts and got it back together and the car runs fine.
• Corey fell asleep on the couch last week so Brandon thought he would be funny, so he put hot sauce on Corey's lips, guess it about burned him up!!
• Angela got Brandon back by putting the same hot sauce on his taco, he took a bite of it and almost threw up.
• Brandon and Corey had this great idea to help do the landscaping on our front yard, but Angela is having a hard time getting them to finish the job. They did a good job of clearing the old stuff out, but need to build a retaining wall before we can plant the new stuff.
• Thats all for now!

Amazing Computer Animation

Hit Pause button (II) on Music Player at right for this to work correctly

Memorial Day

How easy it is to just enjoy the great weather and the day off of work, without really remembering what Memorial Day is all about.

I have to admit that our family has been very lucky in that no relative, that I know of, has paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

BUT that does not relieve me of the obligation to stop and say a special prayer this weekend for all of those families who have lost love ones defending our country!

We are very blessed to live in a country where men and women have always been willing to take the fight to the enemy and defend all of us, even those that do not agree with them.

I think there are 2 things that make our country great:

• Freedom of Religion, for each to search out and understand how God is reaching down to us, just like our salvation, where we are free to choose to follow Christ.
• Freedom of Speech, many people confuse their freedom to speak with my freedom to listen! Everyone in this country has the right to say whatever they want to, but we also have the right to listen or not to listen! Sometimes this causes people to say and do things that are the opposite of what I believe (think Rosie), but our troops are still dieing today to protect that right!

So make sure you stop this weekend, visit the grave of a loved one who has passed on, and say a prayer for them, their family, and then pray for our troops, and our leaders. They need it, they are under all kinds of attacks; spiritual and physical.

GOD BLESS THE USA!

Ballad of the Average Joe

To the tune of "Somewhere over the Rainbow"....

Somewhere under the radar
Out of sight

I’ll be quietly working
Away from the lime light

Somewhere under the radar
It just feels right

Too much noise and attention
Is a future not so bright

Someday I’ll wish upon a star
That average Joes will go as far as EE’s

Without the pain and suffering
That visibility can bring,

That’s where you’ll find me.
Somewhere under the radar

Try as I might
Life in the safe zone can be

Soaring at your own new height.

Dreary Day

We are finally getting some long overdue rain. Grass was just starting to look brown in some places. This week should be a good week at work after yesterday which was wall to wall meetings. My boss will in Chicago all next week so things are always a little slower, can get caught up on some things. Don't get me wrong I like my boss a lot and definitely have had a lot worse. somehow it it is just different.

Mark and I were discussing work last Saturday on our way to Buca. somehow we got on the subject of what kind of workers should Christians be? I have always believed that Christians need to put forth extra effort, more than others as another way of showing we are different than the world.

For me, it comes back to the cliche' that "I may be the only Christian some people ever see" or "If every Christan was just like me, what kind of world would this world be?" I really believe we need to stand out at work more than we do at home or church.

I have had people report to me, who called themselves Christians, but took every opportunity to get out of doing what was expected of them!! When I called them on it, they claimed that what happens at work was different than what happens outside, NO IT DOES NOT!

How effective of a witness would anyone have if they cannot lead by example in the simple basic things of everyday life?

Something to think about on this dreary day, time for ME to get to work!

Sad times

This not been a fun week at the Salyers.

1 of the twin great nephews fell off a chair and broke his arm.

Brandon's leg showed "abnormal" on an X-ray and he has a an MRI tomorrow morning

And Henry is in Hospice as his body is shutting down.

The week has been such an emotional roller coaster that it is hard to put into words how I feel. I know that God will take care of Brandon.

gotta a cut this short, Tanny just called and wanted us to come back to the hospital.

Just pray for all 3 of those listed and their families.

Raising Kids

With our church hosting a Global Impact Celebration this weekend, we get to have a missionary speak during CONNECT group, so I get the week off from teaching.

The 1st speaker was great. Walker Moore, was here Wed & Thurs and he was both funny and challenging. Thursday was especially good. He talked about the concept of kids growing up, how they need to act like and be treated like adults at a specific time during their lives. I agree with the concept and can look back how in our son's lives how that has worked well for us and allowed our boys to learn some responsibility at a young age.

Tyler was a store manager of a dry cleaners at age 15, Corey has had his own business mowing yards for several years, and Brandon has had a job outside the home almost since the time he could drive. We have tried to make sure they are not given everything, and I feel they have an appreciation for the value of a dollar and that it is OK to work towards something before you get it.

I can just look around and still see people who call their 30 year old kids to get them out of bed in the morning so they are not late to work. The kids never learned any responsibility because they never mowed a yard or helped out around the house that I know of anyway.

Our boys are not perfect and have made mistakes, but the thing I am proudest of is that they have learned from the past and are better men today for it. No parent wants their kid to have to go through hard times or struggle with relationships or money or problems.

THAT is the point where kids have to grow up. When they go against the way they were raised and make a bad choice, they always know that love at our house is unconditional, but there are consequences for actions. When they take that responsibility, they become the men God wants them to be.

Jack blew it?

I can't believe it but Jack Bauer just let the Chinese get the circuit board and escape!! Today's episode of 24 was great!! Not only did Jack make a big mistake (which keeps the show on the air) but Bill Buchanan was fired by his wife! Great story lines are emerging, this is a well written show.

Now back to reality:

• New worship pastor accepted the call and starts in June! Can't wait, think he will be just what the church needs to continue the blessing's God is giving our church
• Spent last Wed-Fri in Chicago, hated being away from the family, but suffered through 4 star meals, 800 thread count sheets, and 3 kinds of creme brule` all at the same time! Life is tough sometimes.
• Helped scrub the outside of the Dear's new house Saturday got lots of sun and the house looks like new.
• God continues to bless our CONNECT group. Laura's 2 daughters were saved on Sunday morning, ate lunch with Amanda and Drason Sunday shared horror stories of raising 3 sons.
• The study of Romans is amazing! I am learning so much as I prepare the lesson about how God is working all around us.
• Actually using the treadmill, trying to get my summer body ready, it will take awhile I am sure.
• Pray for Global Focus this week at church, pray that God will speak to lives and people have the courage to answer.
• Thank God everyday for 1 thing he has done for you recently! It will make your day.

Easter Sunday

Here is my beautiful wife dressed up as the "Easter Bunny" with all of the little kids in the family. This has become a family tradition because the kids love it!!

We had great day in all respects. Church was super with salvation's at both services. Our Sunday School class had record breaking attendance with new couples joining and becoming involved in our church.

The lesson was out of Romans,

(Rom 1:4 MSG) his unique identity as Son of God was shown by the Spirit when Jesus was raised from the dead, setting him apart as the Messiah, our Master.

What a perfect verse for Easter Sunday where we celebrate the resurrection of our savior! That verse tells it all about why Easter is so important to Christians, it is that resurrection that sets Jesus apart from everyone else that claims any kind of power or ability to save us from our sins.

That should get us all excited about becoming a better christian this year. No matter what we have done in the past, we are all forgiven by the true savior who rose from the dead and lives today in Heaven.

Amazing Grace

• Angela and I went to see the movie "Amazing Grace" last night. I give it a B+. It was the story of an English politician in the 18thCentury who fought for, and finally succeeded in getting the slave trade banned in England. His inspiration was his Pastor, an ex-slave trade ship captain who became a christian and gave up his job, to serve the Lord.
• I wondered later, how many of us would do that? What if God convicted us that our job was getting in the way of serving him and led us to quit and go another direction with our life.
• I know of 1 person would did that, my father-in-law, Billy Allen.
• He was 40 years, a successful business man whom God called him into the ministry. He gave it all up and to do the Lord's work. From what Angela tells me, there was much financial sacrifice, but he never wavered. He went on to be a successful Pastor for 17 years, before God called him home. What a role model he was!
• I think that is what separates people in life, the amount of passion and commitment they have for what they believe in. Way too many people in life, just want to coast through their job, their spiritual walk, and their relationship with others and their relationship with Christ. They really do not want to listen to what God is telling them to do, mostly out of fear of the unknown.
• That is why people like Billy Allen and some long forgotten English politician, can change their part of the world and make the world a better place for all of us, still today.
• What is stopping you or me from changing our little corner of the world?

Pictures from recent trip

Tyler cooking

Old Friends

Statue of Liberation in Memphis

Tylers class

What a week

• Well the Buckeyes pulled one out last night! We were down by 17 points at halftime but we chipped away and finally went ahead with a few minutes to go. We made a free throw with about 3 seconds left and UT had 1 last shot that our big guy blocked. The only problem was the game was not over until about 12:30 AM this morning!!!

• Sorry to my UT friends, this was payback from the football bowl game where you cheated and beat us (you know what happened)

• Starting to get quotes for fixing the house back up, may have to move out for a few days after they sand the floor to let the new coating dry. Angela is working on other options, that are more family friendly.

• Brandon home this week on spring break. He finally bought a Nintendo Wii, and man it is fun!!! for those uninformed, it is a wireless system where you swing the controller based on the game you are playing. for example, when you are playing the bowling game, you swing it like you are throwing a really bowling ball. Great fun for the whole family. Even Angela and Tammy got into the act. Brandon goes back to school this Sunday, guess he will want to take it with him, maybe not.

• Corey got a haircut!! Hasn't been this short in a long time, looks like he is 25 years old. He is going professional this summer with his mowing business, advertising and working for the same guy Brandon did last summer.

• Have one of the new couples from church coming over tonight, trying to meet more of the people in the CONNECT group. One thing we all need to watch is that we don't always stay with the same people from church and form a clique. We need to reach out and make new people feel at home, meet new people, pay forward some of the blessings God had given to us.

• I would like to challenge all of you to invite someone you know over to your house for some fun and conversation. If you think your house is not big or nice enough, be very careful, God has blessed each of us with what we have for a reason, His glory. We need to use what he has given us big or little. I really believe we have to show God we can handle what he has given us, before He will bless us with more. So pay it forward for His glory!

It happened again!

I was traveling to my office so I decided to check voice mails on the way. I had 2 frantic messages from Angela saying there was water everywhere and she did not know how to turn it off!

The water supply line to the sink broke and water was pouring out from under the sink. She called Todd and Corey, both were close by. By the time they got it off it was about ankle deep in the kitchen.

So here we are again facing the replacement of the kitchen floor. The same thing happened before when the valve on the ice maker to the refrigerator busted and a much smaller amount of water was spilled.

This time we might have to replace the kitchen cabinet(s), the floor again, and a few things in the basement. Angela had just looked and it had been almost 1 year since it happened the 1st time.

And of course it could not happen at a worst time. We have some people from our CONNECT group coming over on Friday night and the Music Pastor search team over Saturday. Angela is really handling it well, all things considered.

stuck again

Well it is 10:00 PM eastern time and I am stuck in an airport again! My boss Patti and I are in Chicago for 2 days of meetings. We left for the airport today about 4:00 PM for a 7:30 PM flight that is now delayed until 11:35 PM, if all goes well, will get in about 1:00 AM and then drive home get some sleep and have very important meeting with the VP of HR at 10:00 AM!!

I have been here so long that my laptop battery died and I had to switch batteries with Patti from her laptop.

And I am glad I did!

It seems that when my baby doll gets lonely she gets on eBay and looks around, well to my surprise she is bidding on 4 items, hair barrettes.

If you know Angela, you could guess that plain plastic $1 kind would not be for her. No she is bidding on items around $10 each! Who ever heard of antique hair barrettes? I am sure one of them was like that.

Leave it Angela to find "Hair Jewelry"! In addition she won a ring and is bidding on others. Guess I will have to change my password again.

I am starting to see a pattern with my family when I leave town. Either going out to dinner without me or EBay shopping or something. Oh well, it could be worse, at least when I get home I know they will be there and will genuinely welcome me home.

I now understand why they ask, "When are going out of town again?"

Jeff

wierd sounds

Angela called me at work today to say that the shower in the boys bathroom was making a weird noise, like motor running, causing the pipe to vibrate.

She called Todd, our personal fix it guy, who came over about 7:00 PM. I went upstairs with him and sure enough there was a low humming sound coming from the shower head. We checked in Corey's bedroom to see if he had anything hid in his closet. (The back of his closet is on the other side of the wall of the shower).

The sound was definitely coming from the shower head, we looked around and didn't find anything until Todd picked up Corey's razor, (why does he have a razor?). He had bought one of those new razors that has a battery that vibrates, supposedly to give you a closer shave. It was running! Since it was hanging on one of those shower caddies that hang on the shower head, the vibration was going to shower head, mystery solved!

We all got a good laugh out of it, except Corey who is in denial about that being the cause.

We also one of the families that heard a BOOM outside of our house last week. It made it into the papers that people from Columbus to Newark to Zanesville heard what sounded like a sonic boom between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Corey even went outside to see if something hit the house.

The official government version said it was nothing, but I think it was secret of aircraft flying over. I am not paranoid or anything but you never know~!

not my idea of fun

Well it's 7:15 PM on Monday night and I have been waiting in the Ottawa airport since 3:30 this afternoon. My flight was supposed to take off at 5:13, then 6:30 and now 7:50. That takes me to Chicago and then I hope to catch the last flight out for Columbus. If not it will be the 3rd time spending the night in an airport, which is not fun. Will try for hotel, but most will be booked up by now.

The ironic part is that it was a beautiful day here today. It was cold, but the sun was shining brightly. The bad weather was closing in on Chicago, no snow but low clouds slowing down the airplanes. I knew the bad weather was coming, which is why I was leaving tonight instead of tomorrow, so much for trying to plan ahead.

I found out my family had a party while I was gone and then someone went to Abuello's without me (course they charged it to me, I love computers, you see who is spending what almost instantly). I am beginning to worry that Angela is out for my money, I will have to keep an eye on her.

Supposed to get a big storm tomorrow, planning on working from, if I make it home, on Tuesday.


Nothing much new with the boys:

• Tyler moved into his house
• Brandon moved out of his old dorm, into a new room
• Corey didn't go anywhere

Big News, I almost forgot, Brandon and Charlie won some kind of a video game tournament at OSU! Hopefully the start of something big, maybe he can make a living and pay off our mortgage or something. Thanks Brandon, I know you will do the right thing.

That's all, I see a plane pulling up, PRAY FOR ME to get home tonight. I need to keep my baby doll warm!

Big Daddy

Winter Wonderland!

• It has been quite a week so far. Temperatures below zero, snowed about 4 inches today. It took my 45 minutes to get to work this morning and over an hour and half to get home. Averaged about 20 MPH all the way home tonight but made it home safely.
• Monday AM on my way to work I was stopped at the light by Bob Evans, getting ready to make a left turn onto the freeway, when the brake peddle went all the way to the floor! What are the odds of the brakes failing while I was stopped instead of traveling 60 MPH! It shook me a little, but know God's hand was on me and I made it safely to Deke's. so the Neon is back in the shop, getting new rear brakes.
• We are finally in the process of finishing the family room. When I lost my job in 2000 we had just finished the kitchen. God has provided the $$$ and we are painting the family room barn red and have a new couch on order. The painter has the 1st coat on the loft and it looks better than I could have imagined. Cannot wait until it is all done. My sister-in-law Pam liked the idea so much she went and bought the exact same sectional sofa we got!
• Tyler is fixing up his new house before moving in. He put tile in the kitchen and will have hardwood floors down before he moves in. Not sure where he gets his talent, but must be from his great grandfather Salyer. Sure not from me, I am not allowed to do anything involving tools or a paint brush.
• Corey's basketball team lost their tournament game so the season is over. The most memorable part was at the end of the 1st quarter Corey got a technical from the ref! He had to stay seated for the rest of the game, which was the only time this season he sat down.
• Have to travel to Canada next week for business, cannot imagine how cold and snowy it will be but will give a full report when I return.
• Question: Why do people have blogs and only update them once a month? Their lives must be so boring they have nothing to write about.
• God bless and stay warm and safe!

Is January over already?

Hard to believe today is the end of the 1st month of the year. Time is really going by fast. A couple of things are already obvious about this coming year:

1. Our cars are falling apart, the Neon is in the shop, the Caddy is still losing oil. I did some research today and found out the problem with the Caddy is the Northstar engine is prone to lose oil! The options are spend $2,000 to fix or put 1 quart of oil in the engine with every fill up! Guess which option I will choose.
2. Pastor Noel preached against playing the lottery (how did that guy get here anyway?) So now I have follow around armoured cars hoping they crash to get rich quickly
3. Our boys are becoming men, Tyler closed on his house yesterday, Corey is doing great job coaching and moving out in the fall, and Brandon actually turned in his meal plan at OSU because he was not using it very much, saved a bunch of money.
4. Finally getting the family room painted and new furniture on the way! Had been on hold since I lost my job at Longaberger, but God has been good!
5. Finally, Tinker, the dog, snores worse than Granny James every did! He climbed up between Angela and I this AM, and woke me up at 0500, snoring in my ear.

GOD IS GOOD! It will be a great year!

Please call me this from now on

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Reverend Lord Jeffrey the Harmonious of Colquhoun St Cahoon Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

lot going on since last time

The Salyer house has been very busy over the last few weeks:

• We had a water leak in both bathrooms and had to have the tile replaced.
• We bought a new sectional couch, yet to be delivered
• Took the twins to a model train show last week, I had a great time, but the boys told Angela "this better be good" before we went. Bribed them with pancakes from Bob Evans before we went.
• Corey's basketball team is doing great, won 4 in a row, homecoming game tonight (for middle school?) against Madison who defeated them soundly the 1st time(32 - 2 after 3 quarters).
• Brandon got another deer and was invited to an archery event at Ohio State with the archery team, apparently he is a very good shot!
• Tyler bought a house and closing next week, moving in before Valentines day
• Angela fell on the ice and is slowly recovering
• I got my passport and am getting ready to travel to Canada next month, (yes you need a passport to get to Canada now, don't you watch the news?)
• Jack Bauer is trying to find his Dad on 24, wonder if he knows his brother tried to have him killed?
• Hero needs to find a special sword on "Heroes" to retain his power
• Smash got busted by his mom over the steroids, but Coach Taylor did not turn him in. (cannot wait until next week when Buddy Garrity gets the shock of his life)
• Neon been running all week with the "Check Engine" light on, no time or $$$ to fix.
• OSU basketball team is for real!

Is that enough? Hope your week went calmer.

Have you got 24 fever?

I have caught the "24" fever. It was only the end of 2004 when I started watching. Have not missed an episode since, keep thinking I will go back and watch the early seasons, but have not taken the time.

Jack Bauer is an American superhero come to life. He can do amazing things every hour the show is on. If you have not seen the show, it takes place over 24 hours (hence the name) each show is 1 hour long. In the 1st 4 hours of the show this season:

• Jack has been returned from the Chinese prison
• Traded to Muslim terrorists by the US government so the US can capture another bad guy.
• Escaped from the bad guys
• Found another bad guy who is really a good guy when no one else could.
• Tracked down another family being held captive by even more bad guys
• Killed one of his best friends because he (Curtis) didn't like the bad guy who is now the good guy.
• Almost had a mental breakdown
• Watched a nuclear bomb explode in downtown LA, (not Lower Alabama either, but the one in California)

What a way to start a day!!!!

Another good week

• I got rid of the walking boot and crutch this week. Doctor said break was healed, but need to wear an ankle brace for 3 weeks
• Corey's team won both games this week, his team is really getting better. Wonder if he will be the next Thad Matta?
• The OSU Basketball team finally beat a ranked team yesterday. We beat UT on a last second shot. It will take something like this help Buckeye fans get over the football team loss.
• Went to Japanese Steakhouse yesterday with Bonner's and their grandkids. It was Brooklyn's birthday. The kids were excited about all the knife twirling and fast movements made by the Chef.
• Close to buying a new couch for the 1st time in over a decade! Angela thought she wanted a sectional, but Tammy tried to talk her into a couch and love seat. I am OK either way, but do not really like the sectionals with a chaise on the end. But willing to go along, just excited about something new.
• Tonight opening night for TV show "24". All kids are going to Tammy's to watch with her and Gary on their plasma TV. 2 hours tonight and 2 hours tomorrow.
• Continue praying for our CONNECT group. We are still growing, pray that we are effective in our outreach to new couples in our church.

Bad night last night

Well, we had waited 51 days since beating Michigan to claim our next National Championship. Everything was ready at home. The family showed up, we moved the furniture around. We even placed the buckeye helmet and bobbleheads back on the TV like we had for every game this year. I even wore my "Big Daddy" jersey that Corey got me for Christmas 2 years ago. That jersey has only been worn twice before last night. The Texas game and the Michigan game both wins. I didn't know what else to do to get ready.

We got the opening kickoff and ran it back all the way for a touchdown! Pandamonium at the house jumping and shouting, excitment all around. Little did I realize it would downhill fast from there on. During the celebration in the end zone, someone jumped on Ted Ginn's ankle and he was out for the rest of the game.

It would not have mattered, we stunk!

at times it looked like we were playing with 4 lineman not 5 because Troy Smith never had any time to do anything. Worst performance by an OSU team I can remember.

Today at work was not much better, everyone quiet and moping around. Trying to remember the good year we had.

But Remember: We were in the National Championship Game and only 1 other team made it there. We had a great year with lots of good memories, beating Texas and Michigan. don't forget, spring practice is only a few months away.

Starting the New Year

As I look ahead towards 2007, I can already see it will but another exciting year.

Corey will be moving out in the fall to go to main campus. So the house will be a little quieter.

I will be back on my diet once I can start walking again, and the holidays are over. Too many desserts to sample this time of year to waste time dieting.

CONNECT group still going well, might have a class spin off of ours if the Lord leads that way. Cannot wait to meet even more new people and get them active in our church.

There will be some sad times in 2007 also. My Aunt Edna died this week and we are going to the funeral today. My Aunt Nellie died this month as well. As time marches on I am more reminded that our time here on earth is short compared to eternity. We better enjoy the journey now.

Any other suggestions for New Year's Resolutions?

Merry Christmas Report

We are having a great Christmas at the Salyers. Angela and Rachel are asleep, Tyler is watching TV, Corey is at Kyles, and Brandon is at the Thomas'. I am catching up on email and after reading Pastor Noel's blog, I am glad things are quiet here.

It was a hectic time on Christmas day, but the boys slept in until 8:30 AM, the latest present opening time ever. I was of no help to Angela, due to the broken ankle, and Angela kept forgetting to bring out presents! We were all done and she found more of Tyler's presents, thought we were done again and Brandon found one more for me! Angela just had a lot on her this week, but all is well that ends well.

By my account this was the best Christmas ever. Everyone got something they wanted, and something they were surprised to get. Angela was the big winner of the day with a "dream" blanket, food processor, and silver punch bowl being the big things. I got some clothes, a new book to read, my Woody Hayes picture re-framed, Bible software, and Civil War DVD set.

Angela's family showed up (25 people) for dinner and gift exchange, I got some stupid Ostrich, but Tyler traded me, since it came with an OSU shirt. It was lots of fun with all leaving around 10:00 PM.

Today, Angela, Rachel, Tyler and I went to the mall and bought a few little things, tomorrow is Easton!

Ankle doing fine, went back to doctor, new X-ray showed nothing bad, so I get to stay in the walking boot and 1 crutch.

Christmas Trivia

Christmas Wreath:
The Christmas wreath is a symbol of Eternal Life that has come to us through Jesus' coming into the earth to save mankind. The circle is a symbol of eternity in that it has neither a beginning or end. The evergreen symbolizes life that continues to bloom even in the midst of winter. Sometimes there are candles lit in the middle of the wreath to show that Christ, the Light of the world, has come and brought us this eternal life.

Gold Ornaments:
Gold represents the gifts the Wise Men gave. They gave Jesus precious gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. We bring Jesus precious gifts, too. Our gifts are faith, hope, and love. We love Him because He first loved us.

Gifts:
We share gifts with one another at Christmas to remind each other of Jesus - the greatest gift of all.

Reason for the Season

As we approach Christmas I would like to remind everyone that Jesus is the Reason for the Season. It is so easy to get caught up in getting ready for family to come in, buying and wrapping presents, and even taking care of a broken ankle, to forget why we celebrate Christmas.

If Jesus had not been born 2,000 years ago, who knows where we all would be right now. So I am declaring a 7 day waiting period on asking for anything.

I think for the next 7 days when we want to ask people for something, we should stop and just be thankful for what we have.

If you feel the urge to ask somebody for something, call them and thank them for all they have done in the past for you.

If you find yourself thinking about all the things you don't have this Christmas, stop and thank God for all you do have.

If you are dreading seeing those relatives you "put up" with once a year at the family Christmas part, take Pastor Noel's advice from last Sunday and talk to them how Christ coming to earth has changed your life.

And whatever you get. or don't get, for Christmas remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Season. That is the greatest present of them all.

Good News!

Just got back from the Doctor. No ligament or tendon damage, did another X-ray, and I now have a walking boot and 1 crutch. I had a little trouble getting the hang of walking with 1 crutch, but figured out it was a "rhythm" thing, and like skipping in kindergarten, I figured it out.

Going back to work on Wednesday for at least part of the day.

It really is crimping my style, not being able to walk. Had a few more Christmas presents to buy, but I am not complaining, could be a lot worse. Sean talked about his ankle "dangling" from his leg when he broke his ankle.

Yesterday, I asked Brandon to take me to the doctor and he quickly agreed. Today when I got him up and told him we needed to stop and get gas, Brandon said "to go across the street?", I said no to go to Columbus. He was shocked because he went to bed at 3:00 AM!

He thought we were going to our family doctor at Cherry Westgate, about 2 miles from our house not Mt. Carmel East about 45 min away.

That's all for now, thanks for your prayers and treats!

one tough guy

That is what the doctor told me today after he told me that my ankle was broken! I fell last Monday at home, but went to Chicago all week for work. I wore a brace and it never really hurt much.

I got home today and since it was still swollen I decided to stop for an X ray. Well it was broke, so now I am sitting here in my chair at home with my foot up. It has a splint on it, and I am supposed to use crutches.

Go to orthopedist next week to see if I need a hard cast or maybe a walking boot.

Chicago was good, the food was great, but glad to be back.

All for now, anyone want to teach my class Sunday?

jeff

Weekly report

1. Nothing major happened this week, just work and getting ready for Christmas
2. Angela cooking all week for CONNECT Group party tonight, I MUST approve all food before allowing others to consume, sort of like a personal quality control. So far she has passed with flying colors!
3. Tyler was named the MVP of a basketball game he played in this week.
4. Brandon "won" a hunting trip to Texas on eBay (he really didn't win, he has to pay for it.) Like Pastor Noel said, no one goes to Wal-Mart and says they "won" anything, why do we do it on eBay?
5. Corey had a date, but said she looked different than her photo he saw before hand
6. I go to Chicago next week for work

That's all for now.

Well, we knew it would not last.

Well winter finally made an appearance in central Ohio. After the best Indian summer I can remember with temps in the 60's, it finally is getting cold. Very windy over the last 24 hours with temps dropping into the 30's. All next week the highs will be in the 30's and the lows in the 20's (FYI to the Dear's vacationing in Florida, hope you have your winter coats in the car for when you get back).

I am not complaining, we had a great fall.

Last week was uneventful, work was good, just getting caught up on some stuff. Putting up Christmas decorations at home including my Ohio State Tree (pictures to follow) and our Dickens Village collection of houses.

Celebrated my 51st Birthday last night, got a nice ecard from DD, very funny, and a card from Aunt Rhoda, Cranes, Smith's, Mom and Dad, etc. Angela got me a note holder for my desk with a train on it, and the boy's went together and got me a "Jim Tressel" sweater! (A gray sweater vest with OSU logo) just what I wanted!

We thought we were going to KY today for the Logan Christmas party, but Angela found out she had the date wrong, it is next Saturday! I think she is getting "some-timers" which is a Kentucky version of Alzheimer's (pronounced "all-timers" in some parts of Ohio and Kentucky)

So we kind of have a free day, but there is always shopping to do for some kids from church, decorations to put up and of course football to watch!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This picture shows 6 people sleeping in the living room of my mother-in-laws house in Morehead, KY. We just got back from spending our Thanksgiving there and we had a great time. We had 14 people all over the house Thanksgiving night and would have not had it any other way.

1st the bad news, we finally had the nerve to tell Tammy that no one really liked the dinner rolls and cakes she has been getting from Riley's Bakery in Newark. For years Gary has gone down there and stood outside to get the rolls and cakes for family events. We always thought everything from there was so dry and hard to eat, but we never could bring it to tell Tammy. She thinks they are great! Well we told her and now she is paranoid about everything she makes. She even called Corey tonight and asked him what else she makes that no one likes!

Now the good news, we had a great time.

The food was great, even Pam's breakfast was very good, with plenty to go around. It was the first time that everyone had been together for Thanksgiving, maybe ever. I know it wasthe 1st time since Billy Reid passed away and Memi moved to KY. Everyone got along and got to do there own thing. Some played Phase 10, some watched football, some watched hunting shows, and the rest just talked to each other.

On Friday, JR took Brandon and Blake out to some land he owned for them to hunt. Brandon said it reminded him a little of deliverance and was glad he had a gun, they saw a few does, but no bucks. JR gave Blake a muzzle loading pistol and Brandon and Corey a muzzle loading rifle.

Tyler and Memi got up at 0430 to be at the stores by 0500, said the Wal-Mart lot was overflowing. The rest of us got up and went shopping around 0700. Tami and Gary left to fight the crowds at Jeffersonville Outlet Malls.

Got back Friday, so today we put up the outside decorations. Angela and I then spent the rest of the day in Columbus Christmas shopping. I was surprised how easy it was to get around, there were people, but not a lot. The weather was great with temps in the 60s.

Tomorrow, have another dinner at the Bonner's with Kyle and Amy and their families and then back to work on Monday.

I'm Back!

Well, I am finally back and ready to get you caught up on what has been going on, it has been a very busy time since our last blog. so let work my way backwards.

1. Go Bucks! OSU beat the dreaded team from up north, in without a doubt the best football game I have ever seen. We had about 20 people over to watch and my brother in law Gary was going nuts! He was wearing a scarlet and gray wig and was yelling and screaming at the TV. He was so nervous the whole game he never sat down, but would pace and yell all the time. This game was an instant classic and was much better than something called the "Iron Bowl". Who names a bowl after a household appliance? Those people from the Alabama can be a little odd, but we love them. So now it is back to Arizona to play in the National Championship game on 1/8/07
2. Saturday AM I helped at the church by manning the coffee bar at the Ladies Holiday Brunch. Angela was in charge of this part and it looked great. Her and Tammy decorated the table, and Pam, Kellie, and Tammy got to attend. Angela made us all laugh by telling the winning story about the funniest Christmas when she told about how the girls tied her dad's bedroom door shut on Christmas Eve so they could sleep without him waking them up. Angela also made us cry by telling the night her dad died after returning home from Nashville. It is a great story, ask her to it to you, if you have not heard it before.
3. Thursday was a travel day unlike any other. I had been in Phoenix all week on business and was trying to get home. When I checked my bag, the boarding card did not give me a seat number so I knew something bad was up. To make a very long story short, all the flights from Phoenix to Columbus on ALL airlines were oversold for Thursday and Friday! to get back home, I had to take a 4 hour flight from Phoenix to Orlando, wait 4 hours and then fly 2.5 hours to Columbus. The only other option was stay in Phoenix until Saturday! At least I got a free airplane ticket out of the deal.
4. The week in Phoenix good and bad. The purpose of the trip was to present a cultural awareness simulation (training session to all those who do not have a Masters Degree) to all the Plant Managers from every Abbott Nutrition mfg plant. My part went really well, so I got some kudos from those that attended. The other good part was the food! It was wonderful, Mexican type for breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by the chef at the plant in Casa Grande, AZ south of Phoenix. Only bad part was it was meetings all day everyday from 0800 until 07:00 PM, so after we would eat in the evening we had about hour to unwind before going to bed and starting all over the next day.

Vacation Pictures

Where we stayed in Gatlinburg & Hilton Head

Angela at The Lady and Sons

Part of the gang from TN

The Last Night

We have been on vacation with the same 9 couples for the last 4 years. We all look forward to the fall when we travel to Gatlinburg. The last 3 years we have stayed at the same place and have developed many fun routines.

The 1st night we all go out to dinner together, Friday we go out to a nice place and eat, Thursday and Saturday night we grill out, and Saturday morning the men cook breakfast.

But Saturday night is always a very special time. After dinner we all gather around and tell 1 Praise report from the last 12 months and a prayer request for the next 12 months. It is wonderful time with tears and hugs as we pray for our kids, each other, health and job needs, and just for God to work in our lives.

It is very rare to have those kinds of friends and that is what we miss most since leaving TN and moving back to Ohio. We have made many new friends and renewed family ties in Ohio and that is great!

I think it was Mark Twain that said a lucky main has 2 or 3 close friends during their lives, we feel very fortunate to have 9 couples in TN that are that to us.

Vacation Day 3 to End

• Day 3 began badly with a "Low Oil Pressure" warning from the car, but added some oil and no problems until later. The trip from Hilton Head to Gatlinburg was fine with no problems. The back seat had already started to fill up with things we had bought. The trunk was already full with baggage. I had to pack more than normal because I left Sunday for Chicago for work, since I did not want to take a chance on the flight, I carried a set of clothes with me. Angela just packed like she normally does, see earlier posting for details. We met up with our friends and ate at Corky's that night.
• Day 4 was a shopping day (aren't they all?). Anthony, Chris, and I went to a Christmas store to look at their train display, I bought 2 OSU ornaments for my Ohio State tree. Dirk and Ken met us at lunch at Cracker Barrel. We then spent the rest of the afternoon at a Bass Pro shop that was huge!! Never been in one that big before. Angela didn't buy much but was scouting out her purchases for later. Sid cooked out hot dogs and burgers for dinner. Played dominoes, was winning till others got sleepy and went to bed.
• Day 5 more shopping! Angela and I went by ourselves. Car started giving the same warning as before so I took it to Billy at Ridge Road Automotive. Billy was a character, 64 year old chain smoker, who had his shirt unbuttoned to his belly button, but wore a coat over his shirt. He hadn't shaved all week, but I was stuck with no good options. Had to leave the car. Went to Gatlinburg, visited the Pepper Palace with the largest selection of hot sauces I have ever seen! Bought 2 jars and sampled about 20 different types. Ate at the Peddler, a great place in town with everyone and headed back to cabin. Didn't sleep well worrying about the car.
• Day 6, Billy called at 9:00 AM and said he could find nothing wrong! Praise The Lord! Better yet he did not charge us anything. Picked up car with James, ladies went shopping again, and Anthony and Chris went to the UT game, James and I stayed around the cabin and watched the OSU game and got some of the food ready for that night. Sid cooked tenderloin and fish on the grill. (Read next posting for more details about what happened later)
• Day 7, headed home early due to my flight was supposed to leave at 5:30 PM, ended up leaving at 8:00 PM. No problems driving home.
• A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL! It was just good to get away and see our old friends.

Vacation Day 2

Got up late, walked on the beach this morning, collected sea shells. Beautiful day, about 80 and sunny.

We did it! We ate lunch at THE LADY AND SONS, the Paula Deen place. We had to wait about an hour, but it was worth it. Angela had the buffet, and I had pulled pork, dessert was good but small portions. Angela got a new apron with "Put some south in yo mouth" printed on it.

After lunch we walked around the City Market, a collection of shops and eating places trying to walk off some lunch. Angela has fond memories or her childhood of little roadside places where her family bought pecans (PEE-Cons). She has looked and looked and finally asked a shop owner where to buy pecans, he told her "Kroger! There are no little stands selling them anymore". Oh, well, that's progress.

We also visited a little store that sold hand cream, the sign said "Know samples". (for my Alabama friends it should have said "no samples")

Looked for a train museum, with no luck, so we headed back, stopped at a place across from the hotel for dinner.

A good time was had by all!

Heading to Gatlinburg tomorrow, probably will not have internet access, so I will catch y'all up later.

Vacation Day 1

We left yesterday after church and drove south of Charleston, SC. Great weather, saw 1 bad wreck, but otherwise uneventful, until we got to the hotel.

We went to a nearby Subway where Angela ordered a salad, it was interesting because the girl who took her order had some kind of a cajun accent. She asked Angela if she wanted crackers, which Angela interpreted as her asking if she wanted no-fat dressing? Not even close, but I stepped in a interpreted. When we paid for the salad, I looked in the bag and saw no fork was present, so I asked for one. The girl looked at me and said they didn't have any! Angela asked how she was going to eat her salad and the raging Cajun offered up a spoon! Luckily, the hotel had a fork so momma was happy!

When we checked in, the only room was on the 2nd floor. When we brought our luggage in Angela asked where the elevator was, and was told they didn't have one! Now if you have seen those movies about people bringing lots of luggage, they have nothing on my wife. I have 1 suitcase, 1 laptop, and 1 other small bag. Angela has 2 suitcases, 2 makeup bags, 1 bag with nothing but stuff to read on the trip, and a bag full of hair curlers. We (me) got to drag them up the stairs and then back down this morning.

Today we got to Hilton Head about 1:00 and checked in at our oceanview room, pictures to follow. We then drove to Savannah, GA and had a late lunch at Uncle Bubba's Oyster House. Angela is now a fan of raw oysters!!! Uncle Bubba was there, but outside in a meeting so we only saw his back. While here we found out that Paula's Party Show is filmed there, so I got a picture of Angela standing where Paula Deen stands, she was so thrilled!!!!

Later we walked around River Street in Savannah for couple of hours, found the River Street Sweets known for their Pralines (pronounced Pray-leens). To our (my) good luck they had their Halloween candy 50% off, so I made up for it by buying more than I would have! It is good stuff, whatever is left, I will share, but don't hold your breath.

We also found the "Lady and Sons" restaurant where we are going tomorrow. Didn't look like much, but it is on the inside that counts. More on that tomorrow.

Finally, we went to a kitchen store where I found my Christmas passing party gift for the Allen family get together, while Angela found a few things that I know will benefit my stomach in the end, so I bought them for her.

A good time was had by all!

Champions! And other stuff

Wrap up of the weeks activities:

1. Brandon and Corey won the championship of the Columbus Parks Department Fall Softball, 1 pitch competitive co-ed league! My nephew Kyle hit a homerun in the bottom of the last inning to win the game!!!
2. Corey was named the new Granville Christian middle school basketball coach! Jay Burson (ex-OSU basketball player) is the new GCA athletic director and called Corey and offered him the job! He is so excited and can't wait to get started.
3. Pam and family are pumped up about the possibility of being on TV. Not sure of all the details but I think Pam submitted information to the new Rachel Ray TV show (She is on Food TV channel with shows like how to eat on $40 per day and a cooking show) and they called her back. Sounds like the show will be about the "uniqueness" of their family, if you know I what mean!
4. I told Angela they should give John his own show, "How to eat on $40 per week!" or "How to survive with nothing but a twist tie" or "McGiver gone wild"
5. STARTING VACATION TOMORROW!!

Happy Birthday Angela!

Well today is a BIG day in the family, Angela turns 50. I know she does not look 50 but I can verify that she is. We are celebrating tonight with her sisters at Buccca Di Beppo in Columbus.

For her birthday and our 25th anniversary (also this year) I surprised her with an upcoming trip to Savannah, GA to see her idol, Paula Deen, the Food TV star! We are leaving a week from Sunday, spending a few days in GA and then meeting our TN friends for annual trip to Gatlinburg.

It continues to amaze me how time is flying by. It seems like only yesterday that we were baby sitting Kyle and Amy and now in the blink of an eye we are watching their kids. Seems like time is going faster and faster every year.

Back to Angela. There is guy at church who gave me the nickname of "Lucky". It comes from the fact that I am "Lucky" to be married to the piano player (which is Angela). I am lucky, she is beautiful, talented, and fun to be around. She is my best friend and I LOVE HER!

I am the luckiest guy in the world. There are many people who do not have anything close to what we have. Sure, we could always use more money, but who could not? Our boys do not always do what we think they should, but overall they are great boys. Even though our extended families have their moments, but I know they would be there for us.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the woman I love!

CONNECT Group 10/15

It started out like any other Sunday morning CONNECT group, with snacks and coffee and the group settling in. Amanda asked me ahead of time if she could share a praise and of course I said yes.

She stood up and for the next 5 minutes or so, told how God was working in her life, healing her marriage and giving her life meaning again. How God had closed doors until she realized she needed to seek God's will in her life instead of her own.

Then someone else shared a recent example of how God was real in their life and working right now! This continued on for over 30 minutes, and I realized that there was no need for a lesson from me that day. God softened our hearts and the class provided the content.

We laughed and cried, prayed and thanked God for the amazing way He is moving in our lives. It was a day that the Spirit moved in a way that only He can. You cannot plan for anything like that, but we just have to be sensitive to it.

It reminded Angela and I of some of the special times we had with friends back in Jackson, TN. That is a special group of people that we will always share a special bond with. It only made me more excited about seeing them all again in Gatlinburg in November.

Big Night Tonight!

Tonight is the Bonner family bonfire and wiener roast at Henry's farm, weather and wind permitting. Can't wait to see everyone again, Jordan is coming home and bringing a few friends, so Corey is a little excited, think he actually took a shower today! Memi and JR are coming from Kentucky and maybe even Angela's Aunt Carol and family from Portsmouth.

Angela called Carol last week to get her secret recipe for coney sauce for hot dogs. Somehow Angela remembered way back a long time ago when she was a little girl and Carol owned a restaurant. The sauce made quite an impression, but when Angela asked for the recipe, Carol said she didn't know and didn't think the sauce was that good anyway. So for the last week have had hotdogs and different sauce recipes so Angela could figure out how to make it. She settled on one I like, but who knows if it was like the original. I had a good week!

Get to try out the new hot dog cooker forks we bought at Backwoods Fest this year, they about 4 feet long and should keep me from burning the hair off my hand from getting too close to the fire. Suggested to Tammy that Gary start the fire about 2 hours before time to eat to let it burn down some. Full report later. I think Brandon, Corey, and Kyle are upto something.

The other big thing for the night, is yesterday Pam flunked a personality test she took as part of applying for a job! One thing Pam has is personality, so can't wait to get full report on what happened. More to come on that as well.

Eternity!

Last night Corey, Kyle and I went to Spring Hills Baptist Church (SHBC) to watch their production of "Eternity". This play portrays what it will be like when we die and go to Heaven to be judged. There were 5 different scenes with people at various stages in life who have died and now must face the judgment. (We saw something similar when we lived in Jackson, TN, but it was called Heavens Gates, Hell's Flames).

This was a very powerful and emotional hour with joyous moments of those who get to meet Jesus because their name is written in the Book of Life, but tragic for those whose name is not there. Satan jumps out of a pit in the floor and has his demons drag the person to the fiery pit and throw then in, screaming.

To show you the power of this show, SHBC has extended the number of shows until next Sunday, last night was supposed to be the last night. Also, this was the 1st church service I have ever been to where they asked people to leave! There were so many people wanting to attend, that Pastor Pound asked anybody who has already seen the show or who could come back another night to give up their seat because there were 100 more people outside wanting in!

Before last night about a 150 people had accepted Christ as their Savior, with at least another 20 to 30 going forward last night.

PRAY for those who were moved by the play, but did not respond.
PRAY that they have the courage to make the commitment to repent of their sins.
PRAY that they make Jesus the Lord of their lives
PRAY for the cast and crew, I know they are getting tired (Jeremiah is portraying Jesus)
PRAY that people take their unsaved family and friends

You will leave changed

It's Official!

Brock Bonner is officially a family member forever!! Kyle and Kellie met with the judge today surrounded by family. They passed whatever kind of legal waiting period, and got to take the little fella home with them. From what I heard from Great Aunt Angela, Brock got his picture made in the judges chair holding the gavel and probably slobbering on everything.

Corey scared me to death because I text messaged him and asked how it was going and he replied "Not good". As my breathing slowed and my chest felt tight, Brandon called and confirmed everything went quick and fine.

Corey, remember paybacks are coming, it may not be soon, but there will be a day, like when your auto insurance and gas bills are due, they might "lost".

BIG Bonner costume party and weenie roast bonfire this Friday will now really be a celebration!

One of those days

Yesterday was one of those days within the extended family, a little drama, a little humor. The following is based on a true story.

My brother in law, John, took his family to watch Jordan (my favorite niece, unless Olivia is reading this, then you are) run a half marathon near her college. According to reports she did well and passed her personal best with a time a little over 2 hours. (Note: I get tired riding in a car for 2 hours let alone running for 2 hours.)

On the way home the family stopped at Cabella's, which is to hunting what Bass Pro Shops are to fishing. Blake ordered a new hunting bow, possibly for his birthday, bought some arrows and the family hit the road home (visit#1). Well a short time later Blake realized that he had bought the wrong thing and being the good father that he is, John turned around and returned to the store (visit #2). While waiting for Blake to come out of the store, Pam took advantage of the time to go shopping at a nearby Target (Note to self: need to write a blog the creative shopping habits of the Allen girls), John waited in the car, took out his retainer (I thought there was age limit on those things?) and somehow it fell out of the car without him noticing it. So the family gets back in the car, back on the highway heading west when John realizes that he does not have his retainer. They turn around again and return to the store (visit #3) and pull up to the parking spot they had, just as someone was pulling into it and getting ready to run over the retainer, John jumps out scares the poor guy to death, but rescues the device and finally head home.

When they get home, an Asian couple arrives at their home to pick up the stove that Pam had decided she did not want any more. John walks out to meet them and warmly welcomes the 1st person to exit the car with a, "hello young man, how are you doing today?" greeting. To which the reply was, "I am the wife". Needless to say the rest of us were crying with laughter, not at John of course, but with him, because all of us make the same mistake of thinking that Asian women look like young Asian boys!!

The big news of the day on the Salyer side, Brandon shot 2 does yesterday, the last one was doe-zilla, weighing over 200 pounds. Unfortunately after he shot her, she ran through the woods into the heavy brush where it took over an hour in the pitch black to find her and carry her out of the woods, (with my help I might add). I saw parts of the Bonner farm I did not know existed.

Finally, pray for Kyle, Kellie and Brock on Tuesday, the adoption will be finalized and the little fella will be theirs forever legally.

Friday Night Lights

Watched a new TV show last night, Friday Night Lights, on NBC (on Tuesday's, go figure). The show as very well done, it is about a small town in Texas that is nuts about its high school football team. Great action, intriguing stories, some parts not for kids, but overall pretty fair.

Why am I writing about a TV show? Well, as part of the show it reminded me of a big difference between living in the north and living in the south. What the TV included was the team praying before the game. They even said the word "Jesus" on prime time!!

For those who have never lived in the south it is a common practice that before any high school sporting event is played, there is a public prayer offered. There is no one talking or being disrespectful, even in public schools! It is something that my sons got to experience growing up and playing sports.

Many people make fun of NASCAR, but it is the only major sporting event, where someone prays before the race starts, publicly, over the PA system. I wonder sometimes if that is why some people in the media make fun of those who attend or support NASCAR events?

I am glad there are still parts of this country where faith is a part of their everyday lives, and it is normal to give God thanks for all he has done.

Our family always pray before meals, home or in restaurants. It is important that we are not ashamed to thank God for what we have everyday.

Say an extra prayer to God when you read this and thank Him for what he has done for you.

Facing the Giants!

What an awesome movie! I think everyone should go and see this movie about what happens when we take our eyes off of God's purpose for our lives and work on what we think is important.

It is currently at Easton, look for a location near you.

Click the "Plugged in Online" link to the right for more details.

surgery update 9/29/2006

Just got back from the doctor and got the go ahead to resume normal activities. My nose and sinuses are healing slowly, just like the doctor expected. Will take 4 to 6 more weeks for a full recovery.

BIG game tomorrow night OSU versus Iowa at Iowa. Should be a good game for awhile, but OSU will pull ahead and win big in the end. Wonder if Pastor Noel was has recovered from Auburns close win last night at South Carolina? Too close for comfort for the #2 team in the country. Starting to wonder if a OSU vs AU national title game could happen? (I know MSU will not be there, LOL DD). Might have decorate the pastors office door if that happens.

Deer bow hunting season starts in the AM. Corey, Brandon and Blake all have deer stands up and are ready to go. Hope Corey gets one this year, he was shutout last year while Brandon got 2.

Continue to pray for Messick family.

Guiding Light

This was from my devotional today. It reminded me that the #1 problem with people who are in the "darkness"of sin, is that they do not know they are in the darkness, i.e., they do not know there is another way.

1 John 2:7-11, Holman Christian Standard Bible ®
7 Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command, but an old command that you have had from the beginning. The old command is the message you have heard.
8 Yet I am writing you a new command, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining.
9 The one who says he is in the light but hates his brother is in the darkness until now.
10 The one who loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. Or in it
11 But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness, walks in the darkness, and doesn’t know where he’s going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

"The front of his T-shirt read, Be the Moon. I was curious to know what that meant, so as the guy walked by I turned around and read the back of his shirt. It read, Reflect the Son.

Since science was never my strong subject, I had to think about the shirt's message for a moment. Then it hit me. Just as the light of the moon is actually a reflection of the sun, so Christians should be a reflection of Christ, the Son of God.

Christians are similar to the moon in three ways. First, the moon doesn't have the ability to produce its own light. It's simply a celestial body that depends on another source for light. In the same way, Christians don't have the ability to produce our own light. The best we can do is to reflect His light.

That's what today's verse means when it describes the Christian who "lives in the light." When we live "in the light" of Christ, we are like mirrors that reflect His light. Second, the moon's ability to reflect the sun depends on its position in relation to the sun. In the same way, our ability to reflect the light of Christ depends on our relationship with Him.

Finally, the moon often provides enough light for a person on the earth to walk around outside without falling flat on the ground. When Christians are growing in their spiritual lives and staying close to the Lord, they give off a light that can guide others who may be stumbling in a dark world.

What about you? Are you being the moon? Do you reflect the Son? Allow God to use you as a guiding light for others this week.

Take a close look at your life. Where are you in relation to Christ? Do you know Him as your personal Savior? Are you staying close to Him through prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship with Christian friends?"

Passing on

My best friend from high school, Rod Messick, passed away today. We were part of the original CE Harmonaires singing group when we both were in high school. He was a year older than me, but we both caught up with each other the next year at The Ohio State University for a couple of years where he met his future bride, Julie, and moved to Richmond, VA and got married. They had a good life with 5 girls and then finally 1 boy.

The thing that gets me about this is how fast it happened. Rod had been bothered with a bad back for years. About 2 weeks ago they ran another test and found Stage 4 bone cancer! They gave him 2 months to live, but he is already gone.

I got a chance to talk to him to him last week and he told me that he would meet me in heaven, and he is right. Rod was a Christian and is now no longer in pain and is walking down the golden streets with Jesus after hearing "well done good and faithful servant".

Say an extra prayer for Julie and the kids, his sisters Soni, Sally, and Holly and their families as well. I know his parents Don and Harriet really well and they must be heart broken. No parent wants their children to die before they do, so remember them.

This just proves that can be short and fragile, we must be ready to go at anytime. So make sure that you live your life to the fullest everyday and love those around you like it was your last day on earth. It very well may be.

Surgery update

Well, I made through the surgery yesterday. Had a lower turbinate coblation and cysts removed from both sides of my front sinuses. Feeling pretty good today, both sides of my nose are swollen inside so it is hard to breath through my nose. Throat is sore from the tube during surgery. Otherwise doing fine.

Going back to work tomorrow because "Salyer's don't miss work". My dad worked for 42 years and I cannot remember him missing work ever!!! He passed that on to me, because I have probably missed 5 days total in the last 20 years. I hope my sons have that priority and go to work when they are supposed to be there.

Great website

http://www.pluggedinonline.com/index.cfm

This website reviews movies, TV shows, and music from a Chrisitan perpsective

Does God hear all prayers?

Last week in CONNECT class I said that God only hears prayers from those that are saved. I based this on scripture in James 5:16 and Matthew (Ask, Seek, Knock

Pastor Noel get wind of what I said and preached a mini-sermon on Sunday to clarify. (Note: this was the 1st time someone preached a sermon based on something I said)

Since we were moving Brandon back into OSU dorm last Sunday night during the service, I got the CD and listened to it twice and now I want to re-phrase my statement.

1. God hears everything, everybody, including children, can pray to God and he hears them.
2. There are a few examples in the Bible of when God answered the prayers of sinners.
3. God will answer the prayers of the saved, because He said He would
4. God may choose to answer the prayers of the unsaved, but is not obligated to.
5. See Pastor Noel's blog for scripture supporting all of the above

Hope this clears up any confusion, remember if you are saved, it is not an issue!

Read Joshua Chapter 3 for this Sunday.

What a day! GO BUCKS!

OSU is number 1! We beat Texas like a drum last night. The offense played great, the defense was better than ever, still have a little problem stopping the run. We had about 20 people over to cook out and watch the game. It is going to be a great year!

Wonder how the temperature was in the Dear house last night? He is an Auburn fan, she is a Mississippi State fan. Auburn clobbered MSU yesterday so I know he was very happy!

Today is also move in day for Brandon. After church, we load up and take him to OSU. School doesn't start for 2 weeks, but he has a job there getting ready the dorm for the majority of kids to arrive.

Answer to prayer for Amy S., starts a new job soon, hired her on the spot (company obviously recognizes talent when they see it, wait a minute, that was the same place that let me go)! Good luck anyway.

Got a call about my best friend from high school, just diagnosed with bone cancer, called and left a message of support and pray. So keep Rod M. in your prayers.