Disclaimer—You can complain all you want about what I write but you get what you pay for folks (i.e. it’s all about the money). Really, if I offend you, I’m sorry. I surely need to say that ‘cause with the many folks reading this, there will be someone offended and complaining. Such is life.
It’s an effective way of teaching for FrankTheCowboyfromNebraska. You tell ‘em FrankTheCowboyfromNebraska. Mildred, the church gossip, and self-appointed monitor of the church's morals, kept sticking her nose into other people's business. Several members did not approve of her extracurricular activities, but feared her enough to maintain their silence. She made a mistake, however, when she accused Frank, a new member, of being an alcoholic after she saw his old pickup parked in front of the town's only bar one afternoon. She emphatically told Frank (and several others) that every one seeing it that there WOULD KNOW WHAT HE WAS DOING! Frank, a man of few words, stared at her for a moment and just turned and walked away. He didn't explain, defend, or deny. He said nothing. Later that evening, Frank quietly parked his pickup in front of Mildred's house... walked home... and left it there all night.
Joesixpack says—Here’s the deal, this guy plays big! I was invited to a Gung Ho meeting again by an acquaintance at Mudd Advertising (i.e. seems to be a rather effective way to motivate folks). Ben Jacobson, the basketball coach at UNI spoke. It was a typical coach talk but he reminded us that to win, a team has to have a certain effective attitude. They have to be tough, really tough mentally and physically. They have to work hard, work really hard all year and every day (i.e. most folks don’t realize how difficult it is to be great--it’s easy to be average). Some how some way a team has to have a team concept (i.e. a bunch of individuals just wont’ win—it has been proven over and over). Some how some way a team must develop a championship feeling. He said —feeling sorry for yourself is a waste of time. His first year of being head coach at UNI they started 13 and 2. The fans were calling him another John Wooden. Then they lost 7 out the next 8 and they wanted to get rid of him (i.e. he can’t coach). Hey, ya gotta win (i.e. it’s all about money folks). Another statement he made that I like—We have no rules but have expectations; if our players can’t live to our expectations, they have to leave (i.e. now that is an effective way of handling players). Such is life.
Whining, complaining, belly acking, and begging are not qualities of folks we enjoy being around. BUT they seem to be effective! Ouchy ouchy! Joesixpack says—What part of “WHAAAAAA” don’t you understand? Legislators, teachers, farmers, business folks, churches, golfers, housewives, employees, students, parents etc. all seem to whine so it must work or why would they do it. MabelTheComplainer says—I’m here ‘cause I’m not all there!
MissPerfect says--I bet I do things that don’t make much sense to others—she doesn’t whine (i.e. maybe MissPerfect has more horse power than others). But they make sense to me. SusieQ says--hug and kiss me until I whine! Many effective things, ways, and methods make no sense to others ‘cause they have never experienced them. Like my mentor says—We are all programmed by our past environment. Such is life.
CadillacJack says--Make me understand my criticism by making me do it (i.e. it’s very effective). We went to the Splash in Golden (i.e. a water fun spot for younger children). I poke fun of Arlene a.k.a. championcarsleeper (i.e. she can sleep in the craziest positions and at any time). Sometimes she sleeps with her mouth open. ANYWAY I was sitting on my lounge chair at the Splash and fell asleep. I woke up three times and had my mouth open all three times! Ouchy ouchy! Here is another personal example of effective correction of a negative attitude. I called our niece who lives in Denver and asked if her and John wanted to have pizza with us. I got no response so I thought negative thoughts. Then I got this email--Uncle Erv--Sorry we didn't get a chance to get together this weekend ... I've been having trouble with my phone lately in that it doesn't show me when I have voicemails or text messages. So I didn't know you had called until last night when another person left me a voicemail. Sorry about that! Hopefully you guys are having a good time so far. Oh man, there is usually always a reason, a reason that we don’t know about. It’s sorta kinda like what BigSpenderRalph said to his buddy TightWadDallas—Your wife is hot, way hot!!! Here is a couple of bucks for you to turn on the AC! Here is another ervthing—I thought on the way back from CO, we would swing over by Sioux City as I always wanted to play the Dakota Dunes course. So I go on line, get the number and give them a call—Hey we’re traveling from CO back to IA and was wondering if I could play your course—that seems quite a ways out of your way—well, I always wanted to play it and I’m 64 and not getting any younger—you have a point there; so what day do you want to play—Thursday—sorry but we have a tournament that day but since you are going that far out of your way I’ll let you play at 6:30 if you want—okay I’ll do it—where should we stay the night before close to the course—Saskatoon—I never heard of that town—it’s a little ways down the road—wouldn’t Sioux City be closer—no this would be the best—How’s the course—great—didn’t the Hooter Tournament play there a few years ago—no, but the Canadian Open is being played here in a couple of weeks; this course is only 6 years old, are you sure you have the right Dakota Dunes, we are in Canada—what! No I want to play the Dakota Dunes in South Sioux City, SD—you got the wrong course (i.e. we both had a good laugh—AAA well thank you anyway! So I called the other Dakota Dunes (i.e. a private club but I did talk my way on--it’s all about money folks)—Thursday is ladies day so I couldn’t play (i.e. I didn’t have enough money for ladies day)—maybe next year. We drove straight home on Wednesday for our 12.5 hour drive. Sooooooo ervie, don’t get soooooo excited sooooooo fast.
It might be reality (i.e. quite effective). I saw this saying on a t-shirt worn by a middle aged guy in Golden. It read—If you’d meet my family, you’d understand! Have you ever said—I‘ll never be like my dad or mom and you’re just like ‘em. Well flip the pancake—You acquire the good of your parents too! Soooooo, parents, be a good example. It’s a very effective way of parenting. Daphney (i.e. James and Heather’s dog) barked in the back yard. Our Little Erin 2.75 years old ran to the back door and said—No Daphney, no barking! I wonder where she heard that before! Kids mimic their parents if we like it or not. Just look around at families (i.e. it is what it is). Such is life.
So what is the most important thing our kids can mimic in us? That might depend what’s the most important thing to us I would guess. GeorgeTheCrook says—the best life lived without Jesus is still a life without Jesus! You know what folks, we can’t make anyone do something that they don’t want to do (i.e. we can lead them to water but can’t make them drink). But we can put a little salt in their food to make them thirsty. We all copy (i.e. mimic) somebody or some bodies—So who do you copy? Think about that—think about what you think about! Erin is yet a baby but she’s still the boss (i.e. a very effective boss)!
SusieQTheCowgirlFromCo was buying a new saddle. She asked her husband BillyTheCowboyFromCo—Does this saddle make my butt look big? And what do you think BillyTheCowboyFromCo said—Of course he said—Not a bit! That was a very effective response (i.e. my opinion).
LuckieEddie says Whiners are not much fun to be around. No they aren’t LuckyEddie. A guy can take about soooooo much of them. An effective way to deal with them is to not be around them. They are near impossible to change and they are just a drag to your life. We were going to the park and a pickup pulled up beside us. On it’s side it read—Rocky Mt. Bathroom; we fix ugly bathrooms! Hey, ugly bathrooms are easier to fix than whiners (i.e. my opinion). Why do you think folks are complainers anyway? ItchieBithcie says—To really be a good whiner you have to show effective emotions like crying, whine loud, stomp your feet, pout, be persistent, have great facial expressions and learn certain magical words. Such is life.
Saturday question—When you talk to God, do you whine or thank Him? I read this while eating my oatmeal with strawberries on it—the quality of your attitude will help determine the quality of your life, so you must guard your thoughts accordingly. So the next time you find yourself dwelling upon the negative aspects of your life, refocus your attention on things positive. And, the next time you’re tempted to waste valuable time gossiping or complaining, resist those temptations with all your might. And remember: You’ll never whine your way to the top…so don’t waste you breath.
I played golf at the Fossil Trace Golf Club in Golden (i.e. voted the best course in the Denver area). http://www.fossiltrace.com/ I played with BusinessWomanJan (i.e. a real estate broker associate) and SmilingSally (i.e. she was always smiling). ANYWAY we had a very pleasant time (i.e. that’s how they described it). Fossil Trace is a tough course for anyone but maybe especially for woman (i.e. I never heard either of the gals complain, whine or talk trash). One time SmilingSally got in a deep bunker and it took her several shots to get out. She said to me—I’m tired with a smile on her face. Later on I kidded her about that and she said—It was hilarious! They both had a very positive attitude (i.e. fun to be around). I think it was on the 14th fairway when I asked them how old they were—62 and 66! They called themselves the Divot Divas! I had to ask them what a Diva was, I didn’t know. They were very nice gals who seemed to enjoy life very effectively. I shot a 84 from the blues. I thought I shot a 85 but I had my score card on the counter as I had some notes on it. Heather added it up and it was actually a 84 (i.e. I need her around more). A triple, 2 doubles and 2 birdies. Those deep bunkers and several undulating greens were tough for me. I played the same ball for the whole round, played everything down and putted everything out (i.e. that’s golf isn’t it—givemes and rolling the ball is like, what kind of score do you want to have before you start the hole). Of course I played on a 5star course too. I have the Life of Riley now don’t I. Such is life.
It was very effective--Jones applied to a collection agency for a job, but he had no experience. He was so intense that the manager gave him a tough account with the promise that if he collected it, he'd get the job. Two hours later, Jones came back with the entire amount. "Amazing!" the manager said: "How did you do it?" "Easy," Jones replied: "I told him if he didn't pay up, I'd tell all his other creditors he paid us."
Heather and I had to get a new tank of gas for the grill one night. We went to Home Depot. A young man helped me get the tank out of the cage. I asked him—How do you like your job—I like it very much; I’m around some real nice folks—fellow workers or customers—both. I like to here that—usually you hear more whining than positive stuff? That attitude is very effective (i.e. my opinion). The Divot Divas and I both think that positive folks enjoy life more. What do you think?
Riley had another effective picnic in the park—Spent time with family, hiked Mt. Falcon twice, rode bike for 25 miles with my little Peanut Heather, went to church with the family (i.e. little Erin got her chocolate donut with sprinkles on it) and got to go to music in the Denver Park. Arlene had more fun that Riley I think. Little Erin loves Grandma and Grandma loves little Erin. They spend a lot of time together. It was very special for both. That’s the way it’s suppose to be folks. Such is life.
This is what a vendor had on his tee shirt--ThebleachersectionCubby says--"Shut up and drink your beer". Translated into my language it means quit your whining, buck up, suck it up, rub some dirt on it and lets get going! AverageJoe says—Half of the folks really don’t care and the other half are glad it happen to you. So throw those chips away, get your butt off the couch and do something for someone else.
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
swervinervin
KR’s thought of the day—Whining is never harmless. It destroys from the inside.
TheProfessor’sPithySaying—There is no cure for an empty head.
June 26, 2010
June 19, 2010
Mentality
LuckyEddie says---Sometimes it’s a little better to travel than to arrive! I think what LuckyEddie is saying is that we are always in such a hurry to get somewhere that we miss the travel. Is that a normal mentality? Really, what do you think? We are retired so time means nutten to us soooooo..! We are in CO visiting our little Erin, James and Heather and I got to do something I said wanted to do when I retired (i.e. when time means nutten to us). We drove through southern NE by state highways and county roads going through all the little towns. I was more excited about it than Arlene but up with my mentality. Maybe she has a more normal mentality. I don’t know. I like experiences (i.e. maybe unusual experiences according to your mentality). ANYWAY StacyO was sorta kinda our travel guide (i.e. she grew up in this Nebraska area on a cattle ranch doing all the cattle stuff—a very special gal in our mind and hearts). She suggested the roads and also a place to stay (i.e. I wanted an experience and not a Holiday Inn Express). What a good time we had (i.e. like I said--time means nutten to us—we’re retired)! Actually we started our NE experience via way of Waukee/Iowa Cubs game with our little Charlie, Chet and Jessica (i.e. a beautiful summer evening at the ol’ ball park). We saw two spectacular catches. One was by the I-Cub’s center fielder who made an unbelievable catch on a hard line drive in which he went back and to his left making a diving catch landing hard on his belly. The fans stood, hooted and hollered, and clapped showing their appreciation. The second catch was by about a 10-year-old boy off a foul ball. The foul ball was sorta kinda behind first base. Two pretty gals of about 14 stood up to try to catch it but it went through their hands. The little boy, two rows back from them, snagged the foul with his glove and instantly gave the ball to the girls (i.e. no hesitation nor was he told by his father—it was a spontaneous response). The father said something to his son and the crowd clapped for the boy. You have to have a certain mentality to do that. I was really impressed as well as some of the crowd.
We headed down the road and stayed at a huntin’ lodge that night—Hunt Nebraska, Inc. http://www.huntnebraska.com/ in Arapahoe, NE population 1,001. If was quite nice and fun. John the owner has been doing this for 30 years he told me. We had dinner at Muddy Creek Saloon—what a name for a place (i.e. only in small town Nebraska folks).
MissPerfect says--There are cowboys who wear cowboy hats but have no cattle. This guy didn’t wear a cowboy hat but had many cattle. Oh ya! We stopped for a sandwich at Trails West Texaco near Trenton. I asked the clerk what’s exciting going west—she said, not a darn thing!—there is just two old barns! She was wrong. Our last stop before Morrison, CO was at a feedlot by Yuma, CO. It was the largest feedlot I have ever seen. I turned in the lot driveway and there was a sign that read—We don’t do public tours. I didn’t want a tour but just ask some questions. I pulled up to the office/scale house and walked in. There were two office gals in an open type office (i.e. very nice gals). We started talking when the manager came out of his office and introduced himself to me. He was Collin who was about 35 I would guess (i.e. he would have to have a certain mentality to run this operation). This feedlot had capacity for 125,000 head (i.e. that’s a lot of cow pies folks). I asked a ton of questions—It was owned by JBS—they have 15 to 20 cattle buyers all over the country who buy cattle daily—they own their own packing plant in Greeley, CO—90% of the corn is grown in a 20 mile radius—average gain is 3.5 for the steers and 3 for the heifers—1% death rate—around 80 employees. I had the greatest of time. Oh yes, it smelt like cattle folks. Such is life.
JoeBlow says this is a good mentality to have -- Remember, to give a warm hug to those close to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart freely. Say, "I love you" to your loved ones, but most of all mean it. Hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there. Give time to love, time to share the precious thoughts in your mind and remember to forgive no matter how bad the hurt.
A guy has to have a certain mentality or is really addicted. I talked to a guy this week In Aplington. He was sitting on his front porch smoking a cig. He told me he has walking phenomena and can’t seem to shake it. He has had it about 6 weeks and has had a double dose of antibiotics but still fells terrible. Hey, he must not feel bad enough to quite smoking. Such is life.
Forgive me my nonsense as I also forgive the nonsense of those who think they talk sense.~Robert Frost~ Joesixpack says--There is a big difference between people who want to say something and people who have something to say. Often, those with something to say don't talk much and those who want to say something won't be quiet. Ouchy ouchy! It’s time to wrap this “It’s Saturday up folks. Such is life.
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
erv
June 12, 2010
Encourage (i.e. UPlift)
Voof Voof Voof – It seems like everyone is barking about something these days. How about you and I bark in a positive way. Who can we encourage today? So listen UP folks!
MissPerfect says--I will try to help others. I will try not to let a day pass without reaching out an arm of love to someone. Each day I will try to do something to lift another human being out of the sea of discouragement into which he or she has fallen. My helping hand is needed to raise the helpless to courage, to strength, to faith, to health. In my own gratitude, I will turn and help others with the burden that is pressing too heavily upon them. Hey folks, it’s the right thing to do so just do it! And who will be happy about the result? Answer--You and the other person. Such is life.
Be an encourager folks (i.e. an UPlifter). I was working with some clients on a real estate deal. We really had a good time together. They are probably in their late 70s. I asked them if they went to high school—no we didn’t; they both said they quit after the 8th grade but she did go back to get her GED degree. She wishes she would have gone to high school as she likes education but her father said—you don’t need an education to be a wife! She didn’t know about that but he manipulated her with a piano and lessons. It worked. ANYWAY her father also said—The sun will have to come up in the west before we have a TV! Well in the 50s they got a TV! I kidded this gal in saying—You probably said—When the sun comes up in the west we’ll have a computer in our house! She said you’re right erv, but you know what, we have a computer in our house and I’m attending computer classes. Parents who are encouragers give their children a huge, massive advantage (i.e. that’s my opinion). I recently heard a star linebacker from UNI speak. He said for his first 3 years his parents drove all over the country to see him play maybe 4 plays. They were always there but never said much (i.e. they were just being encouragers without pressure). His senior year he became a star and his parents were also always there. They had the same attitude (i.e. didn’t say much). This young man said—I realize what great parents I had (i.e. great family and that’s much more important than football). Such is life.
Hey Rookie! Sidthe10centmillionare says—One of the great things about life is its unpredictability (i.e. full of ifs). Joesixpack says—You lost me, hello! I don’t like unpredictability! Okay this is not unpredictable. I was walking past the TV and Arlene had the Today Show on. They said-- Women spend 20 years of their life fixing their hair. Ouchy ouchy! Just think if all women had buzz cuts and used no makeup. They would all be on the same playing field. Just think how much more would get done in this world. Yabut capitalism would never let that happen. I can’t imagine how much money is spent on hair and makeup (i.e. it’s all about money folks)!
It was sooooooooo encouraging (i.e. UPlifting). I had this dream—He was going to put millions into this deal and I was going to put a lot less in. It was going to make each of us a million a year. I asked him how come he would do that—I like you. Then I woke up!
This was discouraging (i.e. not UPlifting) – The other morning I went for an early walk. I was coming back and met this guy at the corner with his two big beagles. One took a crap on Jenny’s lawn and the other took a crap on the street. Yucko! Where is your brain dog owner? It was the same day that the kids got out of school. Can you imagine some little girl walking bare foot for the first time stepping into that fresh dog crap?
This was encouraging to me—yes it was. I was in the post office the other day and the gal who we sold our used van was there too. She says to me—The van is going to North Carolina tomorrow. So you still have the van—yes we do. It was a 1999 Dodge 4 cylinder short van. We probably sold it to them maybe in 2003. It had 90,000 miles on it. I asked her how many miles are on it now—185,000 and we haven’t done any work on it. Wow!
Do you know why geese honk? They are always honking it seems. The reason is to encourage each other (i.e. UPlift each other). So honk at each other folks. Such is life.
I went for a walk in the rain this week—I like to walk in the rain (i.e. it’s encouraging to me). ANYWAY when I got back, I finished reading The Walk by Richard Paul Evans. Rox at the office said to me one day—erv, have you read the new book by Evans called the Walk—no I haven’t—He’s the guy who wrote The Christmas Box. I sorta kinda forgot about it. This week there was a book lying on the counter—Arlene said she thought I would enjoy reading it. It was the book. I really enjoyed it. I suggest you read it (i.e. very easy read). Let me know what you think of it. Here is another suggestion—go to the movie Letters to God. We went this week at the Grundy Theater. As we were entering, our neighbors were also entering so we went in together. It cost a dollar to get in (i.e. senior discount) but it cost $9.50 for a couple of small popcorns and sodas! I gave the lady a hundred dollar bill—I don’t have change—I had to borrow $10 from NeighborKarl to pay for our treat. I think that is just sooooooooo funny.
Joesixpack says—Folks who are always given stuff just expect it and it seems they aren’t very appreciative. They don’t acknowledge others’ gifts (i.e. they seem to just expect it). Hey Joesixpack, I sorta kinda agree. I just had a reminder of this situation. I did a small little deal and they showed no thank you or response. I think they just expect it. When folks respond to others graciousness and support, they are much more willing to give the next time (i.e. it’s encouraging). GeorgeTheCrook says—It’s just our culture so don’t get soooooo excited erv. I won’t GeorgeTheCrook, I just won’t give to them anymore. I’ll give to those who are appreciative. That’s easy. Flip the pancake—I wonder if God ever says—why in the world aren’t they thankful for my grace and love. Does he say—well, I just won’t give to them anymore; I’ll just give to those who are appreciative? I bet God does like thanking and acknowledgement. What do you think?
AverageJoe says--Each waking moment holds the potential to think a creative thought or offer a heartfelt prayer (i.e. that makes a person an encouraging type of person. OverTheTopBill says--Every increased possession loads us with new weariness.
Is this statement encouraging or discouraging to you? Certain things will never happen to you again. Does your attitude have anything to do with how you answer that? Does your past environment have anything to do with how you answer that? Maybe it’s up to you how you interpret that question. Listen up—It took me four times to get it right last week. A friend called me a…! Hey, it’s encouraging to me that it only took 4 times! Such is life.
I read this while eating my oatmeal with blackberries (i.e. my kid sister’s favorite) on it—Life is a team sport, and all of us need occasional pats on the back from our teammates. In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen…Since we don’t always know who needs our help, the best strategy is to encourage all the people who cross our paths. So today, be a world-class source of encouragement to everyone you meet.
We went to a friend’s wedding last Saturday in Hutchinson, MN. We parked next to a car that had a bumper sticker that read—I stop for Moose! The wedding was very much encouraging to me (i.e. about God, family and friends—very refreshing to me and UPlifting). We drove through Waseca, MN on our way. I haven’t been Waseca since 1964 I think. My friend Jerry and I drove there on a rainy day to buy bows at Herders (i.e. at their factory at a discount price). There is a little lake in Waseca and I slowed down for a mother duck and her ducklings crossing the road and got hit from behind. Ouchy ouchy. I got home and strung my bow and broke the bow. Not a good day. ANYWAY I called my friend Jerry as we were going through Waseca. I haven’t talked to him for about 5 years. Oh yes, he remembered the day. So how is it going Jerry? Well I had my hip replaced and they want to replace both my knees (i.e. he had a detached retina five years ago). Toooooo much softball. Jerry was a very good fast pitch softball player. In fact they won the national title once and maybe more. He has been inducted into the Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. Here is the rest of the story—I worked for Kandiyohi County Maintenance department during my college years. Every year the maintenance department and the office guys would play a slow pitch softball game and the losers had to pay for the keg. Jerry and I played a lot of ball during this time. So on this particular night, Jerry and I played a game somewhere and he rode with me to the county game which was at Kandiyohi Lake. When we got there the game was in progress so I got to play a little but then it started to rain. Most of the guys went home except for maybe 6 guys (i.e. one was the county engineer and another was the guy in charge of maintenance). We sat in a shelter and drank a couple of beers together (i.e. Jerry and I were under the age of 21). I said to those guys—you should hire my friend Jerry—come on in Jerry and apply. They hired him and he retired from Kandiyohi County about 5 years ago. Such is life.
It was encouraging that others didn’t know either. At the wedding, the praise team led us folks in several songs. One was Come thou fount of every blessing. At the reception I asked the guy sitting next to me (i.e. a guy I didn’t know)—I sang that song since I was a kid at Roseland Reformed Church in Roseland, MN and I still don’t know what my Embenezer is? What is it? He didn’t know nor did the guy across the table (i.e. and they both had ties on but no robes). They asked the other folks down the table. No one knew. After some time, the guy next to me came back. He talked to two pastors (i.e. they had ties and coats on but no robes) and got two different definitions. Huh, interesting.
Joesixpack says—We all know how to change this world, our life and the church for the better but the hard part is doing it. Most of the changes (i.e. around the house, in business, in our churches, and in our lives) don’t get done until they become a necessity (i.e. until we are forced to). Some folks they don’t realize that it’s a necessity. It’s really encouraging to see something happen on a proactive basis instead of a reactive basis. Many times the reactive reaction is tooooooo late. Such is life. John Wooden just past away. I have always been a follower of him. Here a few of his statements—Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are—You can’t let praise or criticism get to you. It’s a weakness to get caught up in either one—What you are as a person is far more important that what you are as a basketball player—If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not dong anything. I’m positive that a doer makes mistakes—Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be—it’s what you learn after you know it all that counts. He was an encouraging man (i.e. my opinion). Encouragement is sooooooooo UPplifting now isn’t it. This two-letter word in English has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that word is 'UP.' It is listed in the dictionary as an [adv], [prep], [adj], [n] or [v]. It's easy to understand UP, meaning toward the sky or at the top of the list, but when we awaken in the morning, why do we wake UP ? At a meeting, why does a topic come UP ? Why do we speak UP , and why are the officers UP for election and why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report? We call UP our friends, brighten UP a room, polish UP the silver, warm UP the leftovers and clean UP the kitchen. We lock UP the house and fix UP the old car. At other times this little word has real special meaning. People stir UP trouble, line UP for tickets, work UP an appetite, and think UP excuses. To be dressed is one thing but to be dressed UP is special. And this UP is confusing: A drain must be opened UP because it is stopped UP. We open UP a store in the morning but we close it UP at night. We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP ! To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP, look UP the word UP in the dictionary. In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4 of the page and can add UP to about thirty definitions. If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used. It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don't give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more. When it threatens to rain, we say it is clouding UP . When the sun comes out we say it is clearing UP. When it rains, it soaks UP the earth. When it does not rain for awhile, things dry UP. One could go on and on, but I'll wrap it UP, for now ........my time is UP ! Oh....one more thing: What is the first thing you do in the morning & the last thing you do at night? U P! Don't Mess UP. Now I'll shut UP.
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
erv
KR’s thought of the day—When I get angry, I ask God for patience.
TheProfessor’sPithySaying—Whatever is good to know is difficult to learn.
MissPerfect says--I will try to help others. I will try not to let a day pass without reaching out an arm of love to someone. Each day I will try to do something to lift another human being out of the sea of discouragement into which he or she has fallen. My helping hand is needed to raise the helpless to courage, to strength, to faith, to health. In my own gratitude, I will turn and help others with the burden that is pressing too heavily upon them. Hey folks, it’s the right thing to do so just do it! And who will be happy about the result? Answer--You and the other person. Such is life.
Be an encourager folks (i.e. an UPlifter). I was working with some clients on a real estate deal. We really had a good time together. They are probably in their late 70s. I asked them if they went to high school—no we didn’t; they both said they quit after the 8th grade but she did go back to get her GED degree. She wishes she would have gone to high school as she likes education but her father said—you don’t need an education to be a wife! She didn’t know about that but he manipulated her with a piano and lessons. It worked. ANYWAY her father also said—The sun will have to come up in the west before we have a TV! Well in the 50s they got a TV! I kidded this gal in saying—You probably said—When the sun comes up in the west we’ll have a computer in our house! She said you’re right erv, but you know what, we have a computer in our house and I’m attending computer classes. Parents who are encouragers give their children a huge, massive advantage (i.e. that’s my opinion). I recently heard a star linebacker from UNI speak. He said for his first 3 years his parents drove all over the country to see him play maybe 4 plays. They were always there but never said much (i.e. they were just being encouragers without pressure). His senior year he became a star and his parents were also always there. They had the same attitude (i.e. didn’t say much). This young man said—I realize what great parents I had (i.e. great family and that’s much more important than football). Such is life.
Hey Rookie! Sidthe10centmillionare says—One of the great things about life is its unpredictability (i.e. full of ifs). Joesixpack says—You lost me, hello! I don’t like unpredictability! Okay this is not unpredictable. I was walking past the TV and Arlene had the Today Show on. They said-- Women spend 20 years of their life fixing their hair. Ouchy ouchy! Just think if all women had buzz cuts and used no makeup. They would all be on the same playing field. Just think how much more would get done in this world. Yabut capitalism would never let that happen. I can’t imagine how much money is spent on hair and makeup (i.e. it’s all about money folks)!
It was sooooooooo encouraging (i.e. UPlifting). I had this dream—He was going to put millions into this deal and I was going to put a lot less in. It was going to make each of us a million a year. I asked him how come he would do that—I like you. Then I woke up!
This was discouraging (i.e. not UPlifting) – The other morning I went for an early walk. I was coming back and met this guy at the corner with his two big beagles. One took a crap on Jenny’s lawn and the other took a crap on the street. Yucko! Where is your brain dog owner? It was the same day that the kids got out of school. Can you imagine some little girl walking bare foot for the first time stepping into that fresh dog crap?
This was encouraging to me—yes it was. I was in the post office the other day and the gal who we sold our used van was there too. She says to me—The van is going to North Carolina tomorrow. So you still have the van—yes we do. It was a 1999 Dodge 4 cylinder short van. We probably sold it to them maybe in 2003. It had 90,000 miles on it. I asked her how many miles are on it now—185,000 and we haven’t done any work on it. Wow!
Do you know why geese honk? They are always honking it seems. The reason is to encourage each other (i.e. UPlift each other). So honk at each other folks. Such is life.
I went for a walk in the rain this week—I like to walk in the rain (i.e. it’s encouraging to me). ANYWAY when I got back, I finished reading The Walk by Richard Paul Evans. Rox at the office said to me one day—erv, have you read the new book by Evans called the Walk—no I haven’t—He’s the guy who wrote The Christmas Box. I sorta kinda forgot about it. This week there was a book lying on the counter—Arlene said she thought I would enjoy reading it. It was the book. I really enjoyed it. I suggest you read it (i.e. very easy read). Let me know what you think of it. Here is another suggestion—go to the movie Letters to God. We went this week at the Grundy Theater. As we were entering, our neighbors were also entering so we went in together. It cost a dollar to get in (i.e. senior discount) but it cost $9.50 for a couple of small popcorns and sodas! I gave the lady a hundred dollar bill—I don’t have change—I had to borrow $10 from NeighborKarl to pay for our treat. I think that is just sooooooooo funny.
Joesixpack says—Folks who are always given stuff just expect it and it seems they aren’t very appreciative. They don’t acknowledge others’ gifts (i.e. they seem to just expect it). Hey Joesixpack, I sorta kinda agree. I just had a reminder of this situation. I did a small little deal and they showed no thank you or response. I think they just expect it. When folks respond to others graciousness and support, they are much more willing to give the next time (i.e. it’s encouraging). GeorgeTheCrook says—It’s just our culture so don’t get soooooo excited erv. I won’t GeorgeTheCrook, I just won’t give to them anymore. I’ll give to those who are appreciative. That’s easy. Flip the pancake—I wonder if God ever says—why in the world aren’t they thankful for my grace and love. Does he say—well, I just won’t give to them anymore; I’ll just give to those who are appreciative? I bet God does like thanking and acknowledgement. What do you think?
AverageJoe says--Each waking moment holds the potential to think a creative thought or offer a heartfelt prayer (i.e. that makes a person an encouraging type of person. OverTheTopBill says--Every increased possession loads us with new weariness.
Is this statement encouraging or discouraging to you? Certain things will never happen to you again. Does your attitude have anything to do with how you answer that? Does your past environment have anything to do with how you answer that? Maybe it’s up to you how you interpret that question. Listen up—It took me four times to get it right last week. A friend called me a…! Hey, it’s encouraging to me that it only took 4 times! Such is life.
I read this while eating my oatmeal with blackberries (i.e. my kid sister’s favorite) on it—Life is a team sport, and all of us need occasional pats on the back from our teammates. In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen…Since we don’t always know who needs our help, the best strategy is to encourage all the people who cross our paths. So today, be a world-class source of encouragement to everyone you meet.
We went to a friend’s wedding last Saturday in Hutchinson, MN. We parked next to a car that had a bumper sticker that read—I stop for Moose! The wedding was very much encouraging to me (i.e. about God, family and friends—very refreshing to me and UPlifting). We drove through Waseca, MN on our way. I haven’t been Waseca since 1964 I think. My friend Jerry and I drove there on a rainy day to buy bows at Herders (i.e. at their factory at a discount price). There is a little lake in Waseca and I slowed down for a mother duck and her ducklings crossing the road and got hit from behind. Ouchy ouchy. I got home and strung my bow and broke the bow. Not a good day. ANYWAY I called my friend Jerry as we were going through Waseca. I haven’t talked to him for about 5 years. Oh yes, he remembered the day. So how is it going Jerry? Well I had my hip replaced and they want to replace both my knees (i.e. he had a detached retina five years ago). Toooooo much softball. Jerry was a very good fast pitch softball player. In fact they won the national title once and maybe more. He has been inducted into the Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. Here is the rest of the story—I worked for Kandiyohi County Maintenance department during my college years. Every year the maintenance department and the office guys would play a slow pitch softball game and the losers had to pay for the keg. Jerry and I played a lot of ball during this time. So on this particular night, Jerry and I played a game somewhere and he rode with me to the county game which was at Kandiyohi Lake. When we got there the game was in progress so I got to play a little but then it started to rain. Most of the guys went home except for maybe 6 guys (i.e. one was the county engineer and another was the guy in charge of maintenance). We sat in a shelter and drank a couple of beers together (i.e. Jerry and I were under the age of 21). I said to those guys—you should hire my friend Jerry—come on in Jerry and apply. They hired him and he retired from Kandiyohi County about 5 years ago. Such is life.
It was encouraging that others didn’t know either. At the wedding, the praise team led us folks in several songs. One was Come thou fount of every blessing. At the reception I asked the guy sitting next to me (i.e. a guy I didn’t know)—I sang that song since I was a kid at Roseland Reformed Church in Roseland, MN and I still don’t know what my Embenezer is? What is it? He didn’t know nor did the guy across the table (i.e. and they both had ties on but no robes). They asked the other folks down the table. No one knew. After some time, the guy next to me came back. He talked to two pastors (i.e. they had ties and coats on but no robes) and got two different definitions. Huh, interesting.
Joesixpack says—We all know how to change this world, our life and the church for the better but the hard part is doing it. Most of the changes (i.e. around the house, in business, in our churches, and in our lives) don’t get done until they become a necessity (i.e. until we are forced to). Some folks they don’t realize that it’s a necessity. It’s really encouraging to see something happen on a proactive basis instead of a reactive basis. Many times the reactive reaction is tooooooo late. Such is life. John Wooden just past away. I have always been a follower of him. Here a few of his statements—Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are—You can’t let praise or criticism get to you. It’s a weakness to get caught up in either one—What you are as a person is far more important that what you are as a basketball player—If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not dong anything. I’m positive that a doer makes mistakes—Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be—it’s what you learn after you know it all that counts. He was an encouraging man (i.e. my opinion). Encouragement is sooooooooo UPplifting now isn’t it. This two-letter word in English has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that word is 'UP.' It is listed in the dictionary as an [adv], [prep], [adj], [n] or [v]. It's easy to understand UP, meaning toward the sky or at the top of the list, but when we awaken in the morning, why do we wake UP ? At a meeting, why does a topic come UP ? Why do we speak UP , and why are the officers UP for election and why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report? We call UP our friends, brighten UP a room, polish UP the silver, warm UP the leftovers and clean UP the kitchen. We lock UP the house and fix UP the old car. At other times this little word has real special meaning. People stir UP trouble, line UP for tickets, work UP an appetite, and think UP excuses. To be dressed is one thing but to be dressed UP is special. And this UP is confusing: A drain must be opened UP because it is stopped UP. We open UP a store in the morning but we close it UP at night. We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP ! To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP, look UP the word UP in the dictionary. In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4 of the page and can add UP to about thirty definitions. If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used. It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don't give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more. When it threatens to rain, we say it is clouding UP . When the sun comes out we say it is clearing UP. When it rains, it soaks UP the earth. When it does not rain for awhile, things dry UP. One could go on and on, but I'll wrap it UP, for now ........my time is UP ! Oh....one more thing: What is the first thing you do in the morning & the last thing you do at night? U P! Don't Mess UP. Now I'll shut UP.
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
erv
KR’s thought of the day—When I get angry, I ask God for patience.
TheProfessor’sPithySaying—Whatever is good to know is difficult to learn.
June 5, 2010
The Stories
Joesixpack says—It’s the side of mountains which sustain life, not the top! We all have a story folks. SusieQ says—What does praise God mean? It means being grateful for all the wonderful things in the universe and for all the blessings in your life. So praise God by being grateful and humble. Such is life.
MyWiseFriendJean says—Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads! A friend told me he helped a guy who he really dislikes. So why did you do it guy? It was the right thing to do! I think this guy is going the right direction. You can see why he is one of my buddies. I read this while eating my oatmeal with blackberries on it—Sometimes, amid the demands and the frustrations of everyday life, we forget to slow ourselves down long enough to talk with God. Instead of turning our thoughts and prayers to Him, we rely upon our own resources. Instead of praying for strength and courage, we seek to manufacture it within ourselves. Instead of asking God for guidance, we depend only upon our own limited wisdom. The results of such behaviors are unfortunate and, on occasion, tragic. Such is life.
I asked Ben (i.e. husband of a Northwestern College friend who we have had the pleasure to get to know some) if he would write his story for us. Here is Ben’s story written by him to be shared with you. ~ I grew up on a farm in Sioux County, first attending a country school where I was the only student in my class, total of 9 students in the school. I was baptized and raised in a God filled Christian home, Reformed Church in America. My parents always read the Bible and prayed at both the noontime and evening meal. We attended Sunday worship, Sunday school, catechism and mid week prayer services. At age 13, I confessed Jesus Christ as my personal Savoir, I was a Christian youth until about age 17 or 18. I was fortunate/blessed to have local Sioux county people who believed in me, encouraging me to further my education. A local dentist, whose daughter I dated, was the first to encourage me to enter a profession such as medicine, law or dentistry. After high school I was fortunate to attend Northwestern College and the University of Iowa, graduating from Medical School in 1970. Subsequently after Internship, I was active duty military, ER physician, Diagnostic Radiology Resident UCI finishing Residency in 1977. I had a fulfilling, wonderful career as a Diagnostic Radiologist, retiring at age 64 in Oct, 2009. At about age 17, I became Godless, still believing in God but not feeling I needed him in my life. I was in a Godless marriage for 28 years, raising 2 children who did not grow up in the Church or learn about Jesus. I began recreational use of drugs such as nicotine, alcohol, pot, in college and medical school. This also led to occasional use and abuse of other drugs such as cocaine and psilocybin[mushrooms] in the late 1970s. I stopped using all drugs but alcohol when my children were about 4 or 5. I became dependent and addicted to alcohol in the 1980’s. I was fortunate to be directed into AA in 1988. I have been blessed to remain sober since, AA sobriety date September 5, 1988. I had 2 Christian sponso4rs in AA who helped me to renew my faith in God, encouraging me to again establish daily prayers, Bible reading, and attend worship services. In 2003 I renewed acquaintance with a devoutly Christian high school friend from Sioux County. We had not seen or talked to each other for 38 years. We were married in June 2004. My faith in God has been renewed. I am a believer, follower and servant of Jesus Christ. WE feel blessed to be in a Christian marriage, praying together, reading the Bible, attending church worship, participating in small groups in church. We thank God daily for great health, wonderful family and friends. We both feel having grown up in Christian home has directed us and led us on the path to where we are today. Ben VZ benvz@mchsi.com
I got to know Rick Vesely a little through church meetings and having lunch with him (i.e. I try to pick his mind). He’s the guy I asked you to vote for the cruise if you remember. ANYWAY We had the opportunity to have COFFEE AND DONUTS WITH RICK at the golf course and he told us his story. He is suffering from ALS (Lou Gehrig's). He now has a hard time talking and is losing the use of his left hand. They have put a feeding tube in. He is learning to communicate with the use of a commuter as it looks like he will lose his voice. He told us to live our lives so we have no regrets. He has such a great attitude facing death but he said—I’m not sure how I will handle it. He said he isn’t scared to die but isn’t very excited about the process. He also said—I’m terminal and all of your are too. In fact there is a good chance one of you will die before me. So, make sure you have a relationship with Jesus so you are certain that you will spend eternity in Heaven. Rick is a very humble person besides being very creative, exciting, and enthusiastic. I said when I introduced him—When I think of Rick I think of the statement he has made to me several times—Do it right. He said in his talk—I hate it when folks say – That’s good enough. It’s not just good enough, do it right. He said the kids talk to him about his disease and ask to see his feeding tube but the adults who use to talk to him seem to avoid him. Are we something else folks! You may read the newspaper article that was done on him a short while back at the following link if you like http://www.wcfcourier.com/news/local/article_47acbb0c-52c5-11df-8e8f-001cc4c03286.html
Rick Vesely rickves@traer.net
I saw that Rick wrote this in a public thank you--Don't take any opportunity in the sharing of the Gospel for granted. Make Every Opportunity Count!
I substituted a half day recently and taught three sections of 6th grade Iowa History. I enjoyed the subject and told some stories (i.e. stories about me). They were so interested but when I told them that when I graduated from high school in 1963 and that fall my Daddy, Chester, died, well, they listened intensely. Actually I told them that my Mom, Anna, sold the farm for $350 an acre in 1964. I got a email from my big sister maybe 5 years ago that the owner sold the rock piles off the farm to a landscaper in the Twin Cities for more than he paid for the farm. They all said –rip off! The early settlers paid $1.50 per acre (i.e. that is why we were talking about the price of land—the settlers probably said it was way too much). Everyone has a story. Such is life.
A neat business owner sent this to me. This is the gal’s story in one minute. I think you’ll enjoy.
Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUQYJ77qa50
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
erv
KR’s thought of the day—When you cry, God cries with you. But he cant wipe your tears unless you let him.
TheProfessor’sPitySaying—A learned person never suffers from boredom.
MyWiseFriendJean says—Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads! A friend told me he helped a guy who he really dislikes. So why did you do it guy? It was the right thing to do! I think this guy is going the right direction. You can see why he is one of my buddies. I read this while eating my oatmeal with blackberries on it—Sometimes, amid the demands and the frustrations of everyday life, we forget to slow ourselves down long enough to talk with God. Instead of turning our thoughts and prayers to Him, we rely upon our own resources. Instead of praying for strength and courage, we seek to manufacture it within ourselves. Instead of asking God for guidance, we depend only upon our own limited wisdom. The results of such behaviors are unfortunate and, on occasion, tragic. Such is life.
I asked Ben (i.e. husband of a Northwestern College friend who we have had the pleasure to get to know some) if he would write his story for us. Here is Ben’s story written by him to be shared with you. ~ I grew up on a farm in Sioux County, first attending a country school where I was the only student in my class, total of 9 students in the school. I was baptized and raised in a God filled Christian home, Reformed Church in America. My parents always read the Bible and prayed at both the noontime and evening meal. We attended Sunday worship, Sunday school, catechism and mid week prayer services. At age 13, I confessed Jesus Christ as my personal Savoir, I was a Christian youth until about age 17 or 18. I was fortunate/blessed to have local Sioux county people who believed in me, encouraging me to further my education. A local dentist, whose daughter I dated, was the first to encourage me to enter a profession such as medicine, law or dentistry. After high school I was fortunate to attend Northwestern College and the University of Iowa, graduating from Medical School in 1970. Subsequently after Internship, I was active duty military, ER physician, Diagnostic Radiology Resident UCI finishing Residency in 1977. I had a fulfilling, wonderful career as a Diagnostic Radiologist, retiring at age 64 in Oct, 2009. At about age 17, I became Godless, still believing in God but not feeling I needed him in my life. I was in a Godless marriage for 28 years, raising 2 children who did not grow up in the Church or learn about Jesus. I began recreational use of drugs such as nicotine, alcohol, pot, in college and medical school. This also led to occasional use and abuse of other drugs such as cocaine and psilocybin[mushrooms] in the late 1970s. I stopped using all drugs but alcohol when my children were about 4 or 5. I became dependent and addicted to alcohol in the 1980’s. I was fortunate to be directed into AA in 1988. I have been blessed to remain sober since, AA sobriety date September 5, 1988. I had 2 Christian sponso4rs in AA who helped me to renew my faith in God, encouraging me to again establish daily prayers, Bible reading, and attend worship services. In 2003 I renewed acquaintance with a devoutly Christian high school friend from Sioux County. We had not seen or talked to each other for 38 years. We were married in June 2004. My faith in God has been renewed. I am a believer, follower and servant of Jesus Christ. WE feel blessed to be in a Christian marriage, praying together, reading the Bible, attending church worship, participating in small groups in church. We thank God daily for great health, wonderful family and friends. We both feel having grown up in Christian home has directed us and led us on the path to where we are today. Ben VZ benvz@mchsi.com
I got to know Rick Vesely a little through church meetings and having lunch with him (i.e. I try to pick his mind). He’s the guy I asked you to vote for the cruise if you remember. ANYWAY We had the opportunity to have COFFEE AND DONUTS WITH RICK at the golf course and he told us his story. He is suffering from ALS (Lou Gehrig's). He now has a hard time talking and is losing the use of his left hand. They have put a feeding tube in. He is learning to communicate with the use of a commuter as it looks like he will lose his voice. He told us to live our lives so we have no regrets. He has such a great attitude facing death but he said—I’m not sure how I will handle it. He said he isn’t scared to die but isn’t very excited about the process. He also said—I’m terminal and all of your are too. In fact there is a good chance one of you will die before me. So, make sure you have a relationship with Jesus so you are certain that you will spend eternity in Heaven. Rick is a very humble person besides being very creative, exciting, and enthusiastic. I said when I introduced him—When I think of Rick I think of the statement he has made to me several times—Do it right. He said in his talk—I hate it when folks say – That’s good enough. It’s not just good enough, do it right. He said the kids talk to him about his disease and ask to see his feeding tube but the adults who use to talk to him seem to avoid him. Are we something else folks! You may read the newspaper article that was done on him a short while back at the following link if you like http://www.wcfcourier.com/news/local/article_47acbb0c-52c5-11df-8e8f-001cc4c03286.html
Rick Vesely rickves@traer.net
I saw that Rick wrote this in a public thank you--Don't take any opportunity in the sharing of the Gospel for granted. Make Every Opportunity Count!
I substituted a half day recently and taught three sections of 6th grade Iowa History. I enjoyed the subject and told some stories (i.e. stories about me). They were so interested but when I told them that when I graduated from high school in 1963 and that fall my Daddy, Chester, died, well, they listened intensely. Actually I told them that my Mom, Anna, sold the farm for $350 an acre in 1964. I got a email from my big sister maybe 5 years ago that the owner sold the rock piles off the farm to a landscaper in the Twin Cities for more than he paid for the farm. They all said –rip off! The early settlers paid $1.50 per acre (i.e. that is why we were talking about the price of land—the settlers probably said it was way too much). Everyone has a story. Such is life.
A neat business owner sent this to me. This is the gal’s story in one minute. I think you’ll enjoy.
Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUQYJ77qa50
Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:
erv
KR’s thought of the day—When you cry, God cries with you. But he cant wipe your tears unless you let him.
TheProfessor’sPitySaying—A learned person never suffers from boredom.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
