vi·car·i·ous trav·el·er

2010-12-31T09:40:00.006-07:00

A new season of life calls for a new blog: Cultural Jet Lag. Please follow me at www.culturaljetlag.wordpress.com. Themes of faith, family, culture, and the world will be discussed along with book reviews and new films! Thanks for following along!

2010-10-16T19:22:00.006-06:00

BOOK RANT: RADICAL by David PLATT
"We are molding Jesus into our image . . . And the danger now is that when we gather in our church buildings to sing and lift up our hands in worship, we may not actually be worshipping the Jesus of the bible. instead, we may be worshipping ourselves".

Knowing my struggle with pop-culture Christianity, a mentor suggested I read this book. There is much to appreciate about Dr. Platt and his ideas. He is obviously very bright and yet he comes across gently. I would not disagree with many of his ideas, but found the book to be sufferficial and steeped in modernist thought with a tinge of American exceptionalism behind an age old missions rhetoric.

In Radical, Dr. Platt identifies the American Dream as a value system "dominated be self-advancement, self-esteem, & self-sufficiency, by individualism, materialism, and universalism". He goes on to say that "we have a dangerous tendency to misunderstand, minimize, and even manipulate the gospel in order to accomodate our assumptions and our desires... how much of our understanding of the gospel is American and how much is Biblical?"

These thoughts resonate deeply. In recent years, I have been struck by the weak Biblical hermeneutics delivered from many pulpits. Sermons quickly become the platforms for setting agendas - agendas for evangelism, for building plans, for budgets, for making a name for ourselves (in Jesus' name).

Of course, this is nothing new. Religious leaders have notoriously used power for self-gain throughout history. However, i wonder at the cultural undercurrent of American individualism and how it manifests itself in the American church. What unique eisegetical pitfalls does the independent evangelical church face? Why is individualism so great a danger to the church?

Dr. Platt suggests that individualism is dangerous because it leads to complacency and a lack of zeal to go to all the world and preach the gospel. While I cannot argue with this point, I am more interested in delving deeper into where this individualism came from, how it has polluted the framework of American church, and what an appropriate response should be.

Perhaps we can trace this individualistic trend back to the Great Reformation of the 16th century. Or perhaps it was confounded by (or was it precipitated) by the cultural shift toward humanism that took grip of the newly independent protestant denominations. Within a few centuries, the church continued to divide, splintering into faction after faction. I am afraid to know just how many denominations exists today in North America. I am more afraid to know how many independent churches exist with no authorities or theological guardians keeping an ear to the pulpit. Each church upholds a unique and "true" interpretation of God's word and is burdened with the great task of making disciples. I can't help but ask, disciples of whom?

When Christ said to Peter, "upon this rock, I will build my church", did he really have the assorted independent denominations of the 21st century in mind? Do these schisms reflect the way of Christ as he led in humility and submission? I cannot recall the last sermon I've heard about Biblical submission that wasn't geared toward women only. Rather, our pastors uphold rhetoric of independence - after all, we have been set free in Christ. Lone ranger pastors. Rebellion and self-determination outweigh respect for elders, compliance to authority, and seeking out Godly council. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if Martin Luther stuck it out and reformed within. Is it possible that in an act of righteous protest the path toward individualism and rebellion was forged? Is it possible that this path has led to this evangelicalism "dominated be self-advancement, self-esteem, & self-sufficiency, by individualism, materialism, and universalism"?

This poses some significant challenges for a struggling evangelical who longs to be set free of the American church. In a future post, I hope to explore some of the perplexities this presents in terms of the authenticity of protestantism in general. But for today, I must consider that the way of the consumer is not the way of Christ. Perhaps this cagey creature should stick it out and learn a lesson or two from Christ about submission and healthy spiritual reform before she jumps ship in search of the perfect church that meets all of her individual needs.

2010-10-16T18:14:00.008-06:00

AMERICAN MANGER SCENES
For several years now I've wrestled with my inner "evangelical". I like the music, the coffee, the manger scenes. There's something so American about church. It's a great show, often quirky, but to me, always a little foreign as I watch the others swaddle up the fake baby Jesus and grab another cup of coffee. Although I have struggled against it for so long, I find my inner evangelical is now on the outside looking in at the American evangelical church. A drive-thru nativity spectator.

My husband says I'm recovering. I prefer cagey. . . wary, skeptical, trapped. Perhaps it's the Third Culture kid inside that's having a hard time recognizing this American god. Perhaps it's the media critic in me that just can't stop analyzing script in terms of culture, power, and hegemony. Or perhaps God is doing something very fascinating and utterly confusing. These next few posts will explore some of the questions a cagey, recovering evangelical ponders, a few book reviews, and some interesting thoughts I hope to borrow from respected friends. Come on ring those bells and everybody stay tuned.

Topiary Kathy

2008-11-10T09:46:00.001-07:00

Kathy, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Hi sis and her hubby came to visit us this weekend. We visited the topiary garden at the old School for the Deaf in Columbus. Although impressive, it was smaller than we anticipated. But we found that it was a good size for interactive topiary snap shots.

topiary bottoms

2008-11-10T09:43:00.001-07:00

topiary bottoms, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

topiary pet

2008-11-10T09:42:00.003-07:00

topiary pet, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Topiary Chair

2008-11-10T09:42:00.001-07:00

Topiary Chair, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

us

2008-11-10T09:41:00.001-07:00

us, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

first anniversary: haiku

2008-11-10T09:40:00.001-07:00

first anniversary: haiku, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim and I celebrated our first anniversary at Haiku, our favorite Asian fusion restaurant in Columbus. It is barely in "walking with heels" distance. I barefooted it the way home.

First anniversary: haiku

2008-11-10T09:36:00.001-07:00

First anniversary: haiku, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

First anniversary: haiku

2008-11-10T09:35:00.001-07:00

First anniversary: haiku, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Columbus half marathon

2008-10-22T23:12:00.001-06:00

RaceJim, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

This weekend was the Columbus marathon. Jim had been planning to run the half but forgot all about it. Without any training or even a good jog for several weeks, he got up before dawn, in 38 degree weather and joined the thousands of runners at the start line. Luckily, he had a good friend to run it with. I tried hard to meet Jim at various points along the course to get a few photos but the early morning lighting just didn't work it. Here, he is pointing at the house in the next photo.

President's house

2008-10-22T23:06:00.001-06:00

RaceGee, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

This is the University president's house. It is the only landmark we know on that side of the railroad tracks. We only know this because the night before the race, Jim and I attended a new faculty reception there. The race led through a few other interesting sections of town but we weren't successful in meeting up again. And so, these are my only 2 pictures of the Columbus half!

Over the Rhine in Kentucky

2008-10-22T23:01:00.001-06:00

OTR4, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

My wonderful husband convinced me that Kentucky is not too far to drive to see Over the Rhine play in a vineyard. Although it did take us a good 4 or 5 hours to get there via the scenic route (and getting a little lost), we enjoyed the fall foliage and meeting the front porch locals. When we arrived, the sun was just setting against the Kentucky hills. We plopped down our lawn chairs and opened a bottle of Kentucky white paired with pizza. It was a truly fantastic way to enjoy an October Saturday.

Over the Rhine making a little jam

2008-10-22T22:56:00.001-06:00

OTR7, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Gotta love the stand up bass!

2008-10-22T22:55:00.001-06:00

OTR3, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

2008-10-22T22:54:00.001-06:00

OTR8, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

2008-10-22T22:50:00.003-06:00

OTRGuitar, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Kentucky autumn.

2008-10-22T22:50:00.001-06:00

pond, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The sun was setting, so we didn't get to explore much of the vineyard. I was able to snap this photo though before the sun sank and we drifted along with the music.

2008-10-22T22:47:00.001-06:00

tree, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Date Night: waterfire

2008-08-14T19:20:00.001-06:00

Front row seats, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

JIm took me out on a fabulous date over the weekend. First was a scrumptious dress-up meal at a restaurant along the river. Then we walked up to COSI where a lovely string of wood fueled bonfires blazed on the river following the waterfront. It was very serene amidst the tall buildings of the city.

WaterFire

2008-08-14T19:16:00.005-06:00

WaterFire, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim wants a fishing pole

2008-08-14T19:16:00.003-06:00

Jim wants a fishing pole, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Deb wants a marshmallow

2008-08-14T19:16:00.001-06:00

Deb wants a marshmallow, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

CAT

2008-08-14T18:44:00.001-06:00

CAT, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

So, it's been awhile since I've posted. Marriage has been more fun than blogger, but I promise I will get back into . . . with the help of new flicker photo uploading tools.

This is a picture of Cat. She's pathetic and long outlived her 9 lives. When she died my mom told me about it in a P.S. She said, "P.S. Cat is dead." But now she is immortalized on blogger. And we have a happy ending.

2007-10-15T09:34:00.001-06:00

shove, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Although we really had no idea how it would work out, Jim and I decided to get married during our regular Sunday service. We attend IAC (International Anglican Church) that meets in Shove Chapel on the Colorado College campus. This church has been a place of spiritual growth and healing for both of us. We wanted our wedding ceremony to be non-traditional but yet to really focus on the sacrament of marriage. We often integrate dedications and community prayer times into the regular weekly liturgy and asked our pastor his thoughts on integrating the wedding liturgy into the service. Both Ken and his wife Sallie were very open to the idea and helped us organize a beautiful service - full of worship, good teaching and community participation. I wouldn't have done a thing differently! It was truly a wonderful service!

Flowers

2007-10-14T23:30:00.001-06:00

window, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The day before the wedding, Jan somehow threw together these absolutely vivacious bouquets of flowers! They immediately made me feel vibrant and happy!

Meg

2007-10-14T23:28:00.001-06:00

hair, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Meg-scissorhands was the first to arrive and shazam my messy hair into something lovely and pretty!

amanda

2007-10-14T23:25:00.001-06:00

amanda, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

As Meg was busy making me pretty, Amanda found other things to occupy her attention!

dressing

2007-10-14T23:24:00.001-06:00

dressing, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

I had no idea how many people are required to get a bridal gown on! I never intended to have a "real" gown, but i got it on sale - $99! It was surprisingly comfortable and, in retrospect, I think I would have felt a little underdressed in a building as beautiful as Shove.

processional

2007-10-14T23:20:00.001-06:00

processional, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim and I decided to meet half-way down the isle - a symbol of two becoming one. It also struck me as an interesting representation of the biblical analogy of Christ calling his bride the church. It was nice to have Jim come and call me to join him. I really love that he is an intentional man and enjoy responding to him.

Declaring our intent

2007-10-14T23:15:00.003-06:00

intent, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Dr & Mrs!

2007-10-14T23:15:00.001-06:00

mr_mrs, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

This is the most significant and wonderful moment of my life - becoming Mrs. Jim Gregory!

our first steps together

2007-10-14T23:12:00.001-06:00

dress, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Something about the movement in this photo intrigues us. Perhaps it captures all the flutters we were feeling at the alter.

rings

2007-10-14T23:08:00.001-06:00

rings, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim and I checking out our rings!

prayer

2007-10-14T23:07:00.001-06:00

prayer, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Perhaps our favorite aspect of IAC is the community. We felt blessed to have so many gather round and pray over us.

2007-10-14T23:06:00.000-06:00

worship, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

We also love the worship at IAC - it's not just about the music but about surrender to God.

moms

2007-10-14T23:01:00.001-06:00

moms, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

In our post-wedding chaos, we really didn't get to see much of our parents. But everytime I looked around for our moms, they pretty much looked just like this!

paparazzi

2007-10-14T22:57:00.001-06:00

paparazzi, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

After the wedding, we were mobbed by our own family members wanting to snap a few shots. family or paparazzi?

groomsfolk

2007-10-14T22:54:00.001-06:00

groomsfolk, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim looking studly with a few of his closest friends. The day before the wedding, I came home to find these guys swarming my car with buckets, hoses, soap suds and sponges. It was highly impressive - almost out of a scene from zoolader - but much less hazardous! I look forward to getting to know these guys better in the future. Andrew, in particular, was the pillar organization and happiness that kept the wedding flowing so beautifully. We feel so honored to be known as friends!

bridefolk

2007-10-14T22:50:00.001-06:00

bridefolk, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

It was an honor to have Yvette, Heather, Laura, and Kathy all fly out to join me! These are a few of the most fantastic ladies the world has known. They remind me of an old proverb: "well-behaved women rarely make history" ;)

The Gregory Family

2007-10-14T22:47:00.001-06:00

JFamily, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

It was so nice to finally meet Jim's sister Laura and spend more time with Marilyn and Windy! The weekend went so quickly that I was sad to have had only a little time to spend with my new in-laws.

Our parents

2007-10-14T22:45:00.001-06:00

parents, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Dennis Family

2007-10-14T22:43:00.003-06:00

DFamily, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Families

2007-10-14T22:43:00.001-06:00

families, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The whole Gregory-Dennis clan!

ourselves

2007-10-14T22:42:00.001-06:00

comfy, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

In the midst of all the hubbub, my handsome husband and I had a moment or two to ourselves.

flowerboys

2007-10-14T22:41:00.001-06:00

flowerboys, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Airplane

2007-10-14T22:40:00.001-06:00

airplane, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Getting silly with the bride and grooms folk.

nails

2007-10-14T22:39:00.001-06:00

nails, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Everything about the wedding was PERFECT! well, everything but my Vietnamese manicure. They looked great indoors, but the moment i went outside they turned florescent! This picture doesn't really capture their beauty.

garden

2007-10-14T22:35:00.001-06:00

garden, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

sisters

2007-10-14T22:34:00.001-06:00

feet, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

While Kathy and I may not look a whole lot alike, we both LOVE to be barefoot. I think we were the only girls at the wedding without shoes!

Train tracks

2007-10-14T22:32:00.001-06:00

tracks, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Before heading off the the picnic reception, Jim and I took a little stroll along the tracks.

selah

2007-10-14T22:31:00.001-06:00

selah, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Selah is my favorite baby girl!

frisbee

2007-10-14T22:30:00.001-06:00

frisbee, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Sendoff

2007-10-14T22:24:00.001-06:00

sendoff, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

2007-10-14T22:23:00.002-06:00

car, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim had given me a fun swivel camera as a wedding present - perfect for self-portrait photography. As we drove to the wedding after-party, I was having a grand time taking self-portraits when Heather B, T and Joel's party-car pulled up along side us.

after party, baby!

2007-10-14T22:23:00.001-06:00

afterparty, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

After the wedding and reception, we threw a little after-party for close friends and family at the Inn at Palmer Divide. It was really beautiful . . . and WINDY!

Tables of fun

2007-10-14T22:20:00.001-06:00

tables, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Not only was the Asian food some of the best I've had in America, but we had lots of Asian things to do at the tables: eat with chopsticks, make origami, and write haiku!

2007-10-14T22:19:00.000-06:00

fam_party, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

It was so nice to have family and good friends around us!

haiku contest

2007-10-14T22:18:00.001-06:00

haiku, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

By popular opinion, Joel Strayer won the best origami competition with this "parrot-parrot" masterpiece and Josh Whiteman won the best haiku competition with "An ode to springroll". It went something like: Roll your own springroll, roll, roll it, roll it now, roll your own roll, yum!

Lane the Artisan

2007-08-15T12:28:00.001-06:00

lane, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

As many of you know, I have been opposed to the diamond industry ever since my visit to Angola in 2001 and saw how conflict diamonds had destroyed much of their society. Due to the globalized trade, it is almost impossible to buy a diamond with confidence that it was not mined unethically in Africa.

Jim and I decided to go a different route. We hired Lane, a local artisan to make a ring for us of reused elements. The process was complicated at times but a wonderful experience!

This ring is not only a symbol of all the traditional things a diamond ring has become recognized for, but also our deep value in reusing the things we own or the things around us, including local artisans. We are confident that no part of this ring has played a role in Africa's conflict or the current retail diamond industry. We really enjoyed working with Lane and his girlfriend Laura and would highly recommend them to anyone else in a similar quandary!

the ring

2007-08-15T12:25:00.001-06:00

ring, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The ring turned out to be lovely! At first, i was a little uncomfortable with the size and glitz of it, but am learning that this is (for Jim and I) a reminder of my worth to Jim and how he feels about me. It is very strange and not something i had considered a diamond ring speaking into previously. Anyway, I like that it is not delicate or fragile. It's sturdy and one of a kind and completely recycled!

The center stone was cut sometime before 1920 in Europe. The cut is less sparkly and more simple and deep than modern cuts. It belonged to a family for a long time until an heir recently sold the diamond. Lane said that he knew the family and said that there was no shady business involved. The setting is from the deco period. The side diamonds were my fathers. I recall him mentioning something about them coming from Israel.

When i look at my hand, i not only see a rock, but all the things that it represents for Jim and I and am very happy!

My favorite day!

2007-07-11T09:23:00.001-06:00

bad, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Monday, July 9, 2007 is a day to remember! Jim asked me to be ready for a surprise adventure at 6 AM. I was to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring along a nice dress, wrap, makeup, and my guitar. I had no idea what to expect.

Jim planned to give me envelopes with clues along the way. I was allowed to ask 10 yes or no questions throughout the day so I had to choose wisely. I noticed we headed north on I-25 when he handed me an envelope with this picture of Michael Jackson as my first clue!

Once we jumped on the toll road toward the airport, I got my first question correct. “Are we going to the airport??”

clue2

2007-07-11T09:22:00.001-06:00

clue2, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim managed to get me checked in, through security and to our gate before I figured out clue #2 (Wyoming)!

Turbo Props

2007-07-11T09:20:00.001-06:00

1plane, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

We boarded a twin turbo prop plane headed for Jackson Hole, Wyoming for a fantastic day or adventure!

Transport

2007-07-11T09:19:00.001-06:00

2car, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

We arrived in Jackson Hole to unbelievable weather. It was sunny and in the upper 70’s – a perfect day for a convertible.

Grand Tetons

2007-07-11T09:18:00.003-06:00

3tetons, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The airport conveniently sits on the edge of the Grand Teton National Park. We put the roof down and explored the gorgeous park.

horses

2007-07-11T09:18:00.001-06:00

4horses, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Soon, we pulled into the corral at Jackson Lake lodge. Jim had arranged to take me horseback riding through the park. It was a gorgeous two-hour ride on my faithful horse, Rugrat. Rugrat was an Appaloosa and a stubby broom tail. While the other horses walked peacefully along the trail, gracefully swatting the flies from their bellies with their beautiful long tails, Rugrat resorted to veering into the bushes to scratch his tummy and using his back legs to kick the flies. Only once did he buck with both legs off the ground. We became fast friends.

rugrat

2007-07-11T09:17:00.003-06:00

5rugrat, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

warning

2007-07-11T09:17:00.001-06:00

2warning, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

With about 40 minutes to take-off and about 10 minutes from the airport, we glided along the range in our convertible, soaking in the gorgeous scenery. Then, we noticed the swirling lights in the rear mirrors. Fortunantly, the officer was very gracious and, although curious as to why we flew to his town for only a few hours, let us off with a warning. We returned the car, walked right through security, and boarded the return flight to Denver with minutes to spare.

Feasting

2007-07-11T09:16:00.001-06:00

dinner1, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Fox Run

2007-07-11T09:15:00.003-06:00

dinner2, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Jim took me back to his house where he asked me to fix myself up and put on the dress he picked out for me to wear. When I came upstairs, I found him wearing a tuxedo andlooking so handsome. I was perplexed because I couldn’t think of any restaurants in the springs that would warrant a tux.

We go tin the car and headed away from town. Soon, I realized that he was taking me to Fox Run Park – the park where he runs and prays, and where we had his spiritual birthday party. We pulled up to the pond and as I looked down at the gazebo. It was lined with candles and rose petals. In the center was a table with roses and place-settings for two. Jim’s friends, Greg and Dan, were waiting for us. They served us kombucha and sushi – my favorites!

Joy

2007-07-11T09:15:00.001-06:00

dinner3, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

A beautiful question!

2007-07-11T09:14:00.003-06:00

ring2, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

After an amazing feast and feeling absolutely overwhelmed by the way Jim takes such good care of me, he lead me to the waters edge and asked me to sit down. He told me all the things he loves about me and then knelt down and asked if I would marry him. I said that it would be my honor! He pulled out a gorgeous ring and put it on my finger. WE’RE GETTING MARRIED!!!

Togetherness

2007-07-11T09:14:00.001-06:00

ring1, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Happiness

2007-07-11T09:13:00.001-06:00

ring3, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Other Official things!

2007-07-11T09:12:00.001-06:00

signing, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

The next morning, after Jim picked me up and took me to breakfast, we pulled out his new fountain pen and contract from Ohio State. Within 24 hours, two of Jim’s greatest dreams have come to fruition. We are officially engaged and we are officially going to Ohio! These last few months have been a wonderful adventure and are just the beginning of many more adventures to come!

Take me out to the ballpark

2007-06-17T21:10:00.001-06:00

SkySox-Game, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

After all these years living in the US, baseball still seems like something foreigners do. Jim and I decided to join some friends from church for a sky sox game. My motto is, "when in Rome", so Jim helped me take the cultural experience seriously - a hotdog, chili cheese fries, funnel cake and chaser ale. Ughh. But I learned so much - a balk, top of an inning, the seventh inning stretch. In fact, Jim gave me a multiple choice quiz on the seventh inning stretch. A. ending the game in the seventh inning if one of the teams has a huge lead B. all the players do group stretching on the field C. A stretch limo comes out on the field and everyone dances D. the spectators stand and stretch.

I said A because the other answered seemed subjective to geographic location: B. if we were in Japan (they love group calisthenics), C. if we were in Mexico and the limo was teal, D. if we were in New Mexico and everyone did the "sun salutation" yoga stretch. I was wrong. At the seventh inning, I stood and pretended to know the words to take me out to the ballpark. It was a fun night - almost like being in another country!

world map

2007-06-14T13:44:00.001-06:00

worldmap, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

I recently discovered www.world66.com. At this web site plots the countries i have visited. Looking at this map, visiting Russian and China make you look well traveled! ;)

State map

2007-06-14T13:37:00.001-06:00

statemap, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

rummy cubes

2007-06-07T21:44:00.001-06:00

rummy cubes, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

A few weeks ago, Jim's parents were able to come out for a week long visit. We had a lovely time exploring some of the more delicious spots in Colorado Springs. I was impressed with their VW camper, in which Marilyn and I were destroyed by Jim in a rousing game of rummy cubes. Another highlight was making smores and foil dinners at the campground. Jim is very blessed to have such lovely and godly parents!

spiritual bday

2007-06-07T21:41:00.001-06:00

sbday, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

May 11 was Jim's 25th spiritual birthday. we decided to throw a fabulous bash at fox run park with all of jim's good friends and his parents who were in town! Those who could not make the trip sent a stone. I know that may seem a strange gift, but do you remember the line in the old hymn Come Thou Fount which says, "here i raise my ebenezer"? Many of us presented Jim with an Ebenezer stone to remember all that God has done in his life up until this point and excitement as we look to all that God will do in and through Jim in the years to come. It was a beautiful occasion with lots of good friends and food!

bats and dogs

2007-06-07T21:34:00.001-06:00

hotdog, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

We also played some games like croquet and wiffle ball. I think the wiffle ball caved in on itself during the first swing and a croquet mallet snapped in half before we even ate! After cleaning up and heading to the car, i found this beautiful feast of orange and hotdogs adorning my car antenna. The co-worker pranks are never ending!

The race

2007-06-07T21:30:00.001-06:00

race, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

These are a few shots Marilyn took of Jim and I and Jim's adviser who also ran the race in Louisville. I was all decked out in camera gear and tracking jim through text messaging on my cell phone. it was a really great adventure!

lip them

2007-06-07T11:10:00.001-06:00

lip-them, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

one of my favorite movie scenes is from lost in translation where the japanese lady is saying "lip them!" Well, yesterday, i did "lip them".

I don't know how i did it but as i was walking to lunch with my coworkers, i felt the breeze. somehow i put a big rip in my pants- right at my bum! thank God for all those years watching MacGyver where i learned the many uses of duct tape!

PB and toe J?

2007-06-05T06:47:00.001-06:00

PB, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Did you know that peanut butter is good for taking away itchiness? That's what Josh told me at work yesterday when i mentioned my toe itched. Near lunch, Josh brought me a jar of peanut butter and a knife. I found the gesture thoughtful and happily proceeded to lather my itchy toe with creamy peanut butter before i noticed all the snickering from the boys. PRANK! i can't believe i bought this one!

venus rising

2007-05-10T22:53:00.001-06:00

venus, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Venus outshines all the other stars and planets in the night sky. It is beautiful. Tonight, I sat in my hammock, gazing toward the heavens in wonder. Sometimes wonder for me is disappointing and just plain unromantic.
Tonight, I questioned why i look to the sky to talk to God or imagine that heaven is in the sky. Are dead people really floating around in the atmosphere? What is the sky but vast space between earth and a vaster space? As a child, I imagined that God was on the other side of heaven, peaking through a cloud. I am realizing the absurdity of that idea. If God is not beyond, where is he? Perhaps within? Within space, earth, atoms, particles, persons - the cosmic glue.
Tonight, this gave me great comfort. He is other. I am tired. It is inevitable that i will disappoint others and be disappointed for we are limited in energy and wisdom. Yet the God that permeates all things does not grow tired or weary. He is everlasting. Today, this thought is grounding.
And so my eyes turned away from the sky and i looked at my toes realizing that God is just as present there as he is with Venus.

2007-05-03T21:36:00.000-06:00

race, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Last weekend, I tagged along with Jim to Louisville where he ran a half marathon. This was my first race and I was nearly overwhelmed by the sheer mass of people wanting to run a long distance. I heard that there were 11,000 people running and i wondered how on earth I would be able to keep up with Jim along the way. He decided to run with his cell phone and send short texts letting me when he approached mile markers. At first i recieved simple messages like "1" or "2" but then started to get more descriptions like "I'm behind elvis". I can't even text and walk so i was impressed. It was a really fun event and i suddenly caught a glimpse of myself as a soccer mom. i suppose, if you live in america, some things are inevitable.

Winner!

2007-05-03T21:31:00.001-06:00

finished, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Less than two hours later, Jim took the medal . . . a medal. hmm, i'm not sure how that works, but anyway, I was so proud to meet him at the finish line! I was really impressed. Did i mention that he ran an awesome race?

Gregory's

2007-05-03T21:28:00.001-06:00

Gregory, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Marilyn, Windy and I manned the pace car. Actually, there was no pacing-we could hardly keep up with the race in the car! We had a great time trying though!

carriage ride

2007-05-03T21:26:00.001-06:00

carriage, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

After the race, and a good clean up, we explored a bit of Louisville. Jim hailed us a horse-drawn carriage and we leisurely discovered the waterfront.

lafayette

2007-05-03T21:18:00.001-06:00

lafayette, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

We finished the weekend in Lafayette where i got to see Jim's grad school stomping grounds and more amazing people to meet. In fact, i spent Saturday night at Patricia's house- a truly beautiful woman with so much grace to share. We visited the Alliance church that Jim attended for 6 years. The weather was beautiful so we spent much of Sunday afternoon on Randy and Sally's porch watching their dog be smart. The guy in the bottom picture is a good friend, Craig, who decidedly has the most joyful laugh i've ever heard. This was a full weekend, rich with good people and good memories!

2007-05-02T22:59:00.000-06:00

space, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

This is a picture of Randy and Sally's backyard. Their dog is one of those shepherding dogs that needs something to do at all times. If you don't assign a job, the dog will make up a chore. Bree determined that it would be useful to the family if she ran from the porch to the woodpile everytime someone waved. Sally commented that it wasn't long before you could see the path from space. she's right! here's a shot of the dog's hard work taken from google earth!

NAB

2007-04-22T21:23:00.001-06:00

josh, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Few places could thrill me less than Vegas, but despite the endless kachink of slot machines and wedgy posters, Matt, Josh and i joyfully immersed ourselves in the world of NAB (national association of broadcasters). One week of seminars and training sessions plus the world's largest expo of media stuff was nearly overkill, but well worth it. we got to see tech stuff that won't hit the retail floor for years to come and also got our hands on the latest cameras and gadgets that are coming out this year.

Josh spotted his picture in a recording arts text book! He's the audio guy next to the cameraman. he was happy, but not happy enough to actually buy the book - hence the bad camera-phone picture!

2007-04-22T21:14:00.001-06:00

jeff, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

I spotted jeff caylor getting all crazy with the high roller slot machine. I think he lost a full dollar. It was fun to find him amidst the chaos of NAB. I think there were over 110,000 media geeks in attendance. The people behind us just won $150 dollars in the giant slot machine, one of which was jeff's dollar. I think he prefers to say "donating" rather than "gambling".

2007-04-22T21:10:00.001-06:00

chair, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

My first night in Vegas, we went to a recommended restaurant (I don't remember the name). I gasped in recognition of this chair at our table. When i was five years old, i remember not being able to sleep and so i woke up my Dad. We went to the kitchen and kneeling beside a chair very similar to this one, I prayed the sinner's prayer. It was one of my first memories. I also remember standing on the chair helping my mom strain cream through cheese cloth to make homemade cottage cheese (not something available in Japanese grocery stores and not at all an appetizing procedure). I think the memories were more delicious than the food!

peep jousting

2007-03-30T15:00:00.001-06:00

peeps, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Leli organized the first ever alliance peep jousting tournament. We hand selected our peep warriors, gave them toothpick lances, and gave them 25 seconds to joust in the microwave. Josh's peep exploded. My peep fell over and took the lance to the heart by Leli's peep. Matt's peep struck Brian's peep but there was no puncture wound-just a sticky toothpick. I think we need to learn more about high altitude peep jousting before we try again next Easter.

Swazi-sale

2007-03-27T22:00:00.001-06:00

sale, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Teresa and Jan are planning to go to Swaziland on a missions trip this summer. With soaring ticket prices, our Friday night "Life Group" decided to throw a fundraiser: a yard sale. Everyone donated all kinds of great items and baked goods. It rained most of the day but somehow managed to make enough to really help both of our girls. It was fun to spend the day together.

more than money can buy

2007-03-27T21:57:00.001-06:00

joel, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

Yard Sales are a typically duds on rainy days. joel tried to help us gain customer interest despite the rain. He showed off a lovely zebra print dress and a donated Queer Eye book. I'm not sure what sort of customers he was trying to attract, but we gave him an "A" for Effort!

Turkey party!

2007-03-27T18:32:00.001-06:00

party1, originally uploaded by staarkidd.

No, this isn't Thanksgiving. In light of Jim and Dan's trip to Turkey, Selin and Kutay came over for dinner to prep the guys for their trip. Both Selin and Kutay are Turkish and attended the University that Jim is visiting. Selin is also an engineer and works with Jim. Kutay recently finished his PhD at Drexel and will be working from home and keeping an eye on their baby who is due very soon! They offered some great cultural and travel tips. As i write this, Jim and Dan are in Turkey. Dan, going his fourth or fifth day wearing the same clothes due to a lost bag!