Joe Jon's Weblog!

Caden Hoops

2012-01-21T14:31:00.001-05:00

Caden Hoops a video by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Caden is in the red shorts. He recovers the ball, breaks the defenders ankles, then takes him to the hole. Mad game. Much more advanced than when his two big brothers were that age.

My Three Boys

2012-01-15T16:28:00.001-05:00

My Three Boys, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Sunday afternoon on a long walk on the "back forty."

Gabe Hoops

2012-01-10T20:43:00.001-05:00

IMG_0050.MOV a video by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

6'3" 12-year old 6th grader (Class of 2018) Gabriel Bryant with a couple of rebounds and a 12-foot jumper in game action.

First Eye Exam

2011-12-28T19:45:00.001-05:00

First Eye Exam, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Caden got his first eye exam today. He has perfect vision, for which we are thankful. He did so well!

Guess who finally lost his first tooth?

2011-12-27T19:45:00.000-05:00

Guess who finally lost his first tooth?, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

And the one right next to it will probably go in the next day or two. He's a trooper!

Cuban Sandwiches

2011-12-26T16:14:00.001-05:00

Cuban Sandwiches, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

I made the whole family Cuban Sandwiches for lunch today. Experiment #1 in my foray into international recipes. I got 2 thumbs up from everyone.With a few seasonal desserts for good measure.

Sick, but still had a family meal on Thanksgiving.

2011-11-26T16:42:00.001-05:00

Sick, but still had a family meal on Thanksgiving., a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

We did not travel to see family on Thanksgiving as I was feeling extremely poorly. My wife managed at the last minute to throw something together for her and the boys (I ate a couple of bites). Deviled eggs, homemade mashed potatoes, pineapple casserole, candied yams, pineapples, ham, bread, and green beans all made for a great last minute feast. She is pretty amazing, and I am thankful for her.

Fall Camping

2011-11-01T19:02:00.001-04:00

Fall Camping, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Steaks on the grill by the campfire. A nice Cabernet breathing nearby. Lots of goodies (baked potatoes, olives, salad, grape leaf rolls, mushrooms, etc.) on the side. A couple of Bass Pale Ale already in the tank. A delicious tobacco pipe with some nice Burley tobacco at the ready. The winds have calmed. The stars are shining. God is good.

Beach Webcam

2011-09-19T15:34:00.001-04:00

Beach Webcam, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Well, the one by the pool, at least. I dropped my wife and kids off this weekend at the beach and headed back home Sunday evening. I'll be joining them again on Wednesday night after I wrap a few things up at work. When she called and said she was headed to the pool I asked her to stop by the webcam with the boys so that I could see them. Pretty fun!

The boys are glad to be back at the beach for 2-weeks! #fallvacation

2011-09-17T18:03:00.000-04:00

The Kindergartner

2011-09-16T12:07:00.001-04:00

The Kindergartner, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Caden wearing his apple crown. School is in full swing for the little guy as he began his first "officially official" year of homeschool a few weeks ago. He is proud to show me his work each week. He is off to a great start!

2011-09-09T22:35:00.001-04:00

While playing my 12-year old in chess this evening he moved a pawn across the board for promotion to Queen. As his pawn reached the final square he yelled out loudly, "RELEASE THE KRAKEN!" Scared me to death. That boy ain't right.

Books!

2011-07-30T18:43:00.001-04:00

Good use of time., a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Some kids run for the toys and video games. I love seeing my boys run for the books!

Shopping this morning at BJ's in Cary.

Update: One of our friends at church is a general contractor and all-around handyman. He came today and put in our new water heater for us. Hot showers tonight! Woo hoo!

Water Heater Is Done

2011-07-29T20:25:00.001-04:00

Water Heater is done., a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

I'm really glad I was here when our water heater caught fire.

I hit the rest button after the hot water disappeared this afternoon and immediately saw sparks and high voltage melting going on. I ran and turned off the outside breaker. I saw a tiny flame on the water heater and smacked it with my hand, putting it out. I then went inside for a flashlight. I came back and looked under the house and saw 8-10" flames rising from the upper thermostat. I had Gabe run for a big cup of water while I screwed the water hose on. Gabe came back and threw the cup of water on the flame. I then hit it with the water hose for a couple of seconds. A wee bit scary.

Looks like we have no hot water for a few days. I guess we'll take our showers in the travel trailer until we get a new unit. This old one has had it.

Yarborough's Ice Cream with my buddy Caden

2011-07-11T20:48:00.001-04:00

Yarborough's Ice Cream with my buddy Caden, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

We sneaked away from the older two boys, who were at a scouts meeting, and grabbed some ice cream with mommy.

Ninja

2011-07-09T15:06:00.003-04:00

Ninja, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

He sleeked down the hallway, swiftly but silently bounced through the laundry room, and, before I knew it, he was upon me in the office. Caden, the ninja. With help from the folks at Enter the Ninja.

Caden has Chicken Pox!

2011-07-03T00:44:00.001-04:00

Caden has Chicken Pox!, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

A bummer for our little guy. We started seeing the bumps on Wednesday evening. It caused us to cancel Plan's B and C for the holiday weekend after our hopes to travel to the mountains for a long weekend were crushed. But, we've been having a little "staycation" and have enjoyed our family time at home!

Don't Scratch, Little Buddy!

2011-07-03T00:41:00.001-04:00

Don't Scratch, Little Buddy!, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

It's hard for a 5-year old not to scratch that oppressive itch!

Bag of (Free) Candy

2011-06-21T21:52:00.002-04:00

Bag of (Free) Candy, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Stacie's mastery of "couponing" has gotten to the point that I don't even realize the kind of deals she is getting. It seems all sorts of foods we didn't see much BC (Before Couponing) are always popping up because she got them for free or for next to nothing. Take this bag of candy bars, etc. This bag (along with a dozen or so already eaten the last 2-3 weeks) cost her a grand total of $0.00.

She is feeding our family at the rate of ten cents on the dollar at this point, and it has made a huge difference for the family budget. She is amazing.

Disclaimer: No, dear friends, she is not just feeding us junk food.We eat healthy and nutritious meals, for the most part, but enjoy pizza, hot dogs, burgers, etc. too, throughout the month.

Gabe Headed to Boy Scout Camp

2011-06-19T21:44:00.001-04:00

Gabe Headed to Boy Scout Camp, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Gabe is all packed up and ready to go to his second Boy Scout summer camp. Six nights of fun and adventure at Camp Raven Knob with his friends from Troop 942. As you can see, he has his foot locker, sleeping bag, and plenty of water and Gatorade for what appears to be a hot week coming up for the boys. We'll be missing Gabe, but hoping he has a great time and earns another 2-3 badges toward his Eagle Scout rank. We'll go up Wednesday afternoon to see how he's doing, so we'll see him in a few days.

Boy Scout Troop 942, Sanford, NC

2011-06-19T21:37:00.001-04:00

Boy Scout Troop 942, Sanford, NC, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Loaded up and ready for a week of summer camp!

STUCK

2011-06-18T00:59:00.002-04:00

Pretty funny video of two photographers/videographers who got stuck in the DFW airport and decided to do something fun with their time. I'm hoping that as my three boys get a bit older they'll want to do some fun things like this with me.

Read an interview about it all here.

Caden & Blackberries

2011-06-16T00:08:00.001-04:00

Caden & Blackberries, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Along the wood line by our home we have a good number of Blackberry bushes. The boys find them to be a nice treat. Caden gathered about twice this many this afternoon.

Gabe's Hair Cut from Dad

2011-06-11T19:47:00.001-04:00

Gabe's Hair Cut from Dad, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Before (right) and after (left). The Wahl clippers are officially paid for with Gabe finally relenting and letting me cut his hair. I was even able to layer it up a bit. He is pretty stoked. We cut it while his mom was out, and she came home and was pleasantly surprised.

Saving Money

2011-06-08T21:45:00.001-04:00

BP060811, a set on Flickr. Click each pic to enlarge!

Stacie had what we believe is a record in coupon savings the other night when she paid $13 for a whopping $118 in groceries. Her skills in the mastery of "couponing" are growing like a young Padawan evolving into a Jedi Knight.

Speaking of people who wield light sabers - our recent purchase of a Wahl hair clipper is saving us some bucks, too. As you can see by the photos I cut Caden's hair with the #2 guard, leaving his Mohawk untouched, much like a Jedi carving in to a platoon of Storm Troopers. His Mohawk is growing to be pretty long!

I also cut Ethan's hair for the first time using the #8 guard on top and #6 guard on the sides and back. I also trimmed it up with scissors and a comb. "Dad ain't bad!" is the word so far.

Gabe, whose hair is about as thick as a bamboo jungle in East Asia, won't let me touch him. And Stacie's beautiful hair requires the mastery of someone far more proficient than what my humble clipper skills can offer.

So, with these initial cuts we've already paid for half of what it cost for the clippers. 2-3 more cuts and I'll be able to save we saved a few more bucks.

In other news - Gabe and Ethan are taking their End of Grade testing in the homeschool today and tomorrow. They are looking forward to a bit of a break. But we'll be cranking up the homeschool a little earlier this summer while moving toward a more year-round calendar. Caden will officially be in Kindergarten this summer. He has been doing well in his preschool level work, and enjoyed the most recent Homeschool Co-Op group while learning about Dr. Seuss and his array of books. We hope to do some fun, easy-at-home type of science experiments this summer. We're also looking forward to some vacations coming up in September and October.

Random Pic for 6/7/11 Ethan & Caden

2011-06-07T21:47:00.001-04:00

Random Pic for 6/7/11 Ethan & Caden, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Waiting outside of JC Penney while mommy shops.

I added a bunch of pics on Flickr including random shots of Gabe's first basketball tournament a few weeks ago (see how tall he is compared to other teams!), Caden break dancing in the street, our 11-year old chocolate Lab and our 15-year old yellow Lab, a huge hawk behind our house, Ethan's horse riding lesson, among others. Click the Flickr badge to the left (below the Twitter badge) and enjoy!

Busy, But Not Completely Absent

2011-05-15T21:26:00.002-04:00

Life is a whirlwind. I actually have a ton I could be posting about here, I'm sure, but I have sort of been going with the "micro" theme in terms of my use of social media. If you follow my Twitter feed you can get a small glimpse of what's up, such as Gabe's recent USSSA basketball game, which I consider his "breakout" game against one of the best teams in the state. He totaled 13 points and 10 rebounds (his first double-double) along with 5 or 6 blocks. He is probably the equivalent of a 7'0" center out there as a 6'1" 11-year old. He was very aggressive today, and it showed in his performance. So, instead of writing up huge blog posts about it I "tweeted" a few "tweets" while Gabe was playing.

I also have been trying to get more active posting pictures on Flickr, mostly with my cell phone. Stacie and I are horrible about taking pictures of the kids. We should do it more often. So, we're going to try a bit harder in the coming seasons to be more active there.

You can catch the action via the links to the left of the page. There you will see both my Twitter feed and my Flickr feed. You can actually "subscribe" to the Twitter feed and get updates via your cell phone. If you're really that deep in to what is up in the family, that is.

I am hoping things will slow down some, but I don't imagine that happening in the next 15-years as the boys get involved in more and more activities. I guess I just need to settle in and hold on for the long haul!

First Black Snake of the Year

2011-04-23T15:48:00.001-04:00

First Black Snake of the Year, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Today was a great day for snake hunting. It had been dreary the last day or two, so I knew that when the sun popped out, so would the snakes. My oldest two boys and I headed for the fields behind our home looking for anything fun along the way. We scanned the edges of a small pond and worked our way through some thick brush. Finally I headed straight for a big stump near the pond in a clearing in the field. Bingo. This nearly five-footer was sunning on the edge of the stump. He was an easy catch.

Black Snake 2

2011-04-23T15:45:00.001-04:00

Black Snake 2, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

When I first caught him he had a good grip on my arm. I don't think he has fed yet this spring as he looked pretty thin. Hopefully he'll catch some mice and yard moles behind our house and keep the rodent population down. I walked the several hundred yards back to our home and set him loose on the edge of our back yard.

The Mohawk

2011-04-21T21:01:00.002-04:00

Mohawk 3, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

He posed the question concerning a mohawk hair cut only a few weeks ago and his mother and I laughed it off with a simply stated, "No."

But you don't know the persistence of Caden, our 5-year old, third shift, breakdancing, ninja.

Um, long story there. Nevermind that.

So, he persisted. And persisted.

We hemmed. We hawed.

We relented.

And here he is in all of his mohawky glory. Yes, he does look a tad like David Beckham, doesn't he?

The boy named man. I can't wait 'til the folks at church see it on Sunday.

Mohawk 2

2011-04-21T20:58:00.003-04:00

Mohawk, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Front view of the mohawk. He is loving it. See how happy he is? Big smiles from a little goober.

Mohawk 3

2011-04-21T20:58:00.001-04:00

Mohawk 2, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Side view of the mohawk. He's bad.

Mohawk 4

2011-04-21T20:57:00.001-04:00

Mohawk 4, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Later in the evening after he had rubbed the gel out. Almost looks normal. Where's the gel?

A Series of Posts on the US 421 Bypass Behind our Home - Part 1

2011-04-20T19:20:00.003-04:00

No one has ever mistaken me for an environmental extremist or, as they say, a “tree hugger.” I do not lament the good use of what God has given us to help us along in this life. But I also understand well that God has placed us humans on this earth to care for His creation. So, whenever I see something that is wasteful when it comes to natural resources, I pity it.

The destruction of the forest behind our home for the extension of US Highway 421 Bypass around downtown Sanford, NC, may or may not be an example of such a waste. When we moved here nearly four years ago we purchased our home knowing all too well that there would be a highway built behind it at some point. Frankly, the bypass is probably needed, or at least wanted by those who consistently get snarled through the business portion of 421, and we use the current portion of it often to skip the traffic lights that cause us to crawl through town. So, no tears are being shed for the necessity of the road, nor for a lack of knowledge. We weren’t overcome by the news like some of our neighbors who were here beforehand and learned of it without being able to do anything about it. We were able to purchase our home for somewhere in the neighborhood of 15-20% less than the previous owner had wanted as a result of the highway (plus a considerable amount of fixer-upper quality the home held). And we love our house. More than twice as big as our former home in Winston-Salem for only a little more with a large playroom, a fourth bedroom we turned into the homeschool room, an extra full bathroom, and an office. It was a poor man’s dream.

We also felt that the highway was a few more years out and that we actually might be leaving Sanford within a few years, allowing us to completely miss it. But the government stimulus package from last year enabled the project to be moved up, and here we are, huge machines working already with a completion date just a year or two away.

Even though we knew it was inevitable, we are still quite bummed about it. The next ten posts will tell you why.

Scroll down and follow along.

Before its Time - Part 2 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:19:00.002-04:00

9, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

In the fall of 2010 we read in the local paper that the stimulus funds had been approved and the completion of the bypass would begin in late March or early April. A couple of months ago we started seeing pick-up trucks with surveyors and soil testers out and around the fields near our home and figured it had all begun. Just a few days ago the carnage began with several large vehicles and dozers moving earth and wood, and trees started to fall. This one was among the smaller trees, but had many years on it. It looks to be much older than I am, judging by the rings.

Stacks of Misery - Part 3 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:18:00.001-04:00

8, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

The tree was one of many that were already stacked in a pile that would triple in size over the next couple of days. Except for the time it took to drag them to the stacking area most of the trees were cut, stripped of their limbs, and stacked in a matter of seconds by the huge machines.

They Begin at 6:30 AM Each Day - Part 4 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:17:00.001-04:00

7, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

It was actually pretty interesting to watch them working, despite how objectionable the task at hand was to us. They were very efficient in their work. We took our dogs over to the machines so that they would be much less nervous the next day than they were the first day the monstrous machines came to work so close to their dog lot.

A Child's Dream - Part 5 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:16:00.002-04:00

6, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Only a small lad at five years old, Caden was awestruck by everything that was going on. Who could blame him? The machines were enormous and the path of destruction appealing to a boy bent on taking in as much as he can. He really wanted to drive them.

Scenic Beauty - Part 6 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:15:00.001-04:00

5, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

All of these pictures were taken with my cell phone cam, so truly no justice is found in their quality. Take this picture, for example. In my four years in Lee County I have yet to find a more beautiful patch of rolling hills, green fields, and awe inspiring tree lines. The fall colors are amazing each year. I have wondered many times how someone could choose such a spot to bring a highway through. If they had just moved northeasterly a few hundred yards it would have hidden much of the encroachment and left a great place for a park or recreation area. Not just for our sake, mind you. It could have remained a beautiful area for many to enjoy.

A Good Walk Spoiled - Part 7 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:14:00.005-04:00

4a, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Our family would walk down a tiny path to a hidden creek, allowing the dogs to play in the water and giving us a great opportunity to get out and enjoy nature and the various wildlife beside our home. Deer, coyote, squirrels, birds of all kinds and many other animals would frequent the wooded area. That path is now a wide workway for the machines.

Surveying the Damage - Part 8 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:14:00.001-04:00

3a, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Surveying the destruction gave us a bit of a morbid feeling. It seems all of those trees we enjoyed so often were like friends, and now we were losing them, day by day.

An Amazing View - Part 9 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:13:00.002-04:00

2a, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

I would sit on my deck in the back of our home and gaze across the field as the sun set, the late afternoon light warming the tall row of trees beyond the edges. The glow of the leaves was a highlight for me each day as I slowly tugged a draw from my tobacco pipe and thought of the very simple things in life. It was so quiet there with these friends. Several of them are already gone in this photo.

My Mighty Friend - Part 10 of the Series

2011-04-20T19:12:00.004-04:00

1a, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

One neighbor has lived in our neighborhood her entire life, some 68-years. She said this mighty Oak tree was enormous even when she was a little girl. The tiny portion of tree hugger in me did go down to embrace it, if only to measure its great size, and I was not even able to get half way around its gigantic girth. I discovered this tree when we first moved here and was instantly drawn to its majesty and size. I would enjoy its shade and sit under it quietly, pipe in hand, to reflect on life's simple pleasures. It gave me shade in the heat of summer and protection from the wind in the coolness of spring. I am so fond of this Oak. This poor picture does it no justice as it is truly a beautiful work of God’s creation. It will fall in the next day or two after enduring for so long. And I will miss my friend.

Tornado in Sanford

2011-04-17T07:57:00.000-04:00

Some amazing pictures of the storm damage in our town of Sanford, NC, just a few miles south of us.

Taken by Wesley Beeson of the Sanford Herald.

Flickr

Sleep Over

2011-03-18T21:43:00.001-04:00

Sleep Over a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

The boys had a couple of friends over for a sleep over tonight. It's loud in this house.

Current Pipe and Tobacco Collection

2011-03-09T21:52:00.001-05:00

Current Pipe and Tobacco Collection a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

My 12 favorite pipes in the rack (http://www.twocousinspiperacks.com/) along with a few pounds of tobacco.

The books, bottom to top: ESV Bible, Westminster Confession of Faith with Larger & Shorter Catechisms, The Valley of Vision, my personal journal, two separate/topical journals.

Working Together

2011-03-09T21:36:00.001-05:00

Working Together a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

A recent warm day made for great weather to get a little yard work completed. Our two labs Bailey (Chocolate) and Brady (Yellow) seemed to enjoy it, too.

Caden and his Ring Pop

2011-03-09T21:34:00.001-05:00

Caden and his Ring Pop a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

He loves his ring pops.

Found this Morning

2011-03-01T06:59:00.001-05:00

From Last Night's Storm
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

From Last Night's Storm. A 40' tree fell from the woods beside our house into our yard. It was an old, dead tree, so last night's wind toppled it over fairly easily, I'm sure. The storm looked a little crazy for a while. With Ethan, for scale. (Cell cam photo.)

January and February have been so busy, but hopefully things will begin slowing up now that March is here. The Upward Basketball league is finished and the boys had a great time. Hopefully that will free up some time to focus on some things we need to work on.

We had planned on doing some camping in our travel trailer, but with gasoline expected to approach or surpass $4 a gallon, we may be staying home much of the spring. It's one thing to burn $35-40 in gas to get there and back. It's another to pay more for gas than the camping fees and food/entertainment for the weekend. Maybe we'll splurge for one trip, just to say we did.

Red Truck Fly Fishing Rods

2011-02-10T06:36:00.001-05:00

I cannot wait for spring. I'm looking forward to being on the streams and rivers of western North Carolina with my three boys. They're fishing way out west, but this video still had me shaking a little bit this morning. Late March/early April can't come soon enough.

Gabe B&W

2011-01-30T17:08:00.004-05:00

Gabe B&W, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

The thinker.

Ethan B&W

2011-01-30T17:07:00.002-05:00

Ethan B&W, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

Smooth.

Caden B&W

2011-01-30T17:06:00.000-05:00

Caden B&W, a photo by Joe Jon! on Flickr.

He's bad.

First Video

2011-01-30T08:24:00.001-05:00

First Video
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Caden helped me shoot the first official video with the new Panasonic HM-TA1 mini camcorder. He's always happy to oblige. Our old Sony Handycam is on its last legs. But we got this little camera, which is smaller than my cell phone, for less than 70 bucks. Hopefully it will last a year or two.

I have woefully neglected the blog after assuring myself I would be more active in the new year. But my blog activity is always a sure sign of how busy I am in life. Work has been crazy, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, basketball practices and games, homeschool activities, and much more fill up our time. And all along we forget to take pictures and make little notes.

I have done well keeping my written journal, though. And I am reading much more than normal. I have been updating Twitter with short bursts almost daily. I rarely do anything with Facebook anymore, though I have been getting razzed by friends at work whenever Stacie goes on my Facebook page and "likes" a product such as "Clairol" or other products focused on women.

The questions I asked Caden in the video are from the Westminster Shorter Catechism (WSC). In our family devotions we have been catechizing the children from the WSC, and they are doing well in memorizing the questions and answers. When I read that 80% (or more) of Christian children sent to public schools apostatize from the church when they leave the home it gives me pause for concern. We are thankful to be able to educate our children and bring them up in the ways of the Lord in our home.

I am getting eager to get back out on the creeks and streams of western North Carolina with my fly rod. I am looking to take some time in April and fish during the week, and I have the areas around Cherokee and the Pisgah National Forest in mind. If you would like to go, bring your tent and sleeping bag and we'll make it happen. I know of a few good places in that area, but am looking to get off the beaten path on this trip. I like the idea of having to hike in for 30-minutes just to wet a line. I don't think most fly fishermen are willing to do that, preferring the ease and comfort of fishing by the road, elbow to elbow. Either way, I plan to take my three boys with me. I also plan to have a fly rod in their hands more than mine this year. I want them to get "eat up with it," so to speak, so that I'll have fishing buddies for life.

Can you find the child in this picture?

2010-12-29T18:10:00.002-05:00

Can you find the child in this picture?
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Caden is fond of the "I Spy" books. Here he is the subject of a similar search.

Can you find:

Big Bird?

A frog?

A colorful turkey?

A 5-year old human?

Now you get the idea. I Spy books by Scholastic

Home Sweet Home

2010-12-26T09:25:00.001-05:00

Home Sweet Home
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

A view of our home after 4-5" of snowfall. We're expecting another inch or two.

Our Back Yard

2010-12-26T09:23:00.004-05:00

Our Back Yard
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Looks like a good 4 or 5" of snow - so far.

Sanford, NC Snowfall

2010-12-26T09:23:00.001-05:00

Sanford, NC Snowfall
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

8:30 AM on Wicker St. (42) near Carthage Street, heading towards the park. Shot with the cell phone.

JR Moore & Sons General Store - Gulf, NC

2010-12-24T18:57:00.001-05:00

JR Moore & Sons General Store - Gulf, NC
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

We finished up our Christmas shopping at J.R. Moore & Sons just a few miles up the road from our house in Gulf, NC. This was the sole store that I shopped in this year as I looked online for all of my shopping needs. Stacie, however, has essentially been Christmas shopping since June in stores throughout the southeast. She's a bargain hunter.

If I could, I would choose to live somewhere so far out that a place like JR Moore would be the closest thing to a Walmart within 100 miles.

A Christmas Message From Bill Maher

2010-12-22T18:52:00.001-05:00

Anti-materialistic/anti-Oprah Christmas Greetings from Bill Maher.

Warning: Some PG-13 language.

Perspective on Size

2010-12-20T18:49:00.003-05:00

My nearly 6' tall11-year old son standing next to another 11-year old. They are just 38-days apart.

John Piper - Bad News: Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

2010-12-18T23:40:00.000-05:00

Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'Lux Aurumque'

2010-12-12T13:16:00.001-05:00

There are 14 different countries represented. Each of the singers are coming through on a live feed with their webcam and microphone. Pretty awesome.

What shade of red is your neck?

2010-12-11T12:02:00.001-05:00

What shade of red is your neck?
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

The boys picked up some awesome hats at their Gigi's house. They pretty much love 'em. These hats belonged to my father, which means the boys will keep them forever.

Check Caden's STP hat. He's sporting' it with the "farmer's tilt."

They look like they are ready to do some hunting. I think I'll start taking Gabe and Ethan next year. If only I can talk Stacie in to eating some venison...

Holographic Maps: The Latest Cartographic Innovation - PSFK

2010-12-11T11:50:00.001-05:00

Holographic Maps: The Latest Cartographic Innovation - PSFK

Cartography gets even better. With video.

How to Speak Christianese - Tape Series

2010-12-10T17:52:00.003-05:00

<p>&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;Oh</p>

From A. Piper at 22 Words. Does this video remind you of a whole bunch of people you know like it does for me? ;)

Homeschool Bowling

2010-12-09T14:29:00.001-05:00

After two frames our 5-year old is beating Ethan and me by a pin. Sigh.

"Deer Foot"

2010-11-20T18:05:00.002-05:00

"Deer Foot"
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Ethan called out to me and said, "Dad! A deer foot!"

Amused, I replied back, "You mean deer tracks, buddy?"

"No, a deer foot!"

I walked over and, sure enough, it was a deer hoof, and 4-5" of the leg with it. We were hiking the fields behind our home enjoying a sunny afternoon when he discovered it.

Homeschool International Night

2010-11-19T18:48:00.002-05:00

The boys selected Greece as their country of choice this year. It's a much smaller crowd this time around with the local homeschool group. The last couple of years were pretty packed. A bummer, as I love the wide variety of international flavors. Stacie cooked up some delicious pastitsio for our Greek dish.

2010-11-17T13:50:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Caden!

2010-11-17T11:10:00.003-05:00

My little buddy boy turned 5 today. He has been so excited, counting the days down for the last week. Stacie took him to Target yesterday to spend some birthday money he received from his Gigi (grandmother). He selected a Nerf gun (about the 10th we have now - the Nerf gun wars are insane in this house!) as his toy of choice. As he walked to the check out line he proudly displayed it, letting everyone who got close to him know it was his birthday and that the Nerf gun is what he picked for his big day. He is the most outgoing of all of us.

YouTube - Keith Green - Oh Lord, You're Beautiful

2010-11-17T07:48:00.002-05:00

YouTube - Keith Green - Oh Lord, You're Beautiful: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Fall Color

2010-11-16T11:56:00.005-05:00

Fall Color
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Not the best year for fall colors, with the recent mini-drought we had at the end of summer. Most of the tress are shades of dark red, dark orange, and brown. But a few have shown to be bright and cheery, such as the maple in our front yard. View from the playroom upstairs.

I've been working evening shift hours the last week and plan to on through Thanksgiving week while the PM manager enjoys his newborn daughter. My day crew is full with veterans, but the second shift is very new for the most part, so I want to be helpful to them without being the overbearing boss. I think they appreciate the manner in which I approach them and help them.

I actually enjoy the evening hours, too. When working day hours I get home around five or six o'clock, depending on the needs of the day, and might have two or three good hours with the family as we all grow weary and prepare for bedtime. Working evenings, though, allows me to rise around 8:00 AM and enjoy the first four or five hours of the day with them before getting ready to leave for work. It's been a nice change of pace.

Some interesting sites of late:

Reformed Book Shelf A small collection of mostly Puritan writers for loan. The service is free minus the cost to return the books (a couple of bucks) and you can keep the book up to 30-days.

The Heidelblog The weblog of R. Scott Clark, professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Westminster Seminary, CA. Always something interesting popping up. His book, "Recovering the Reformed Confession" is on my "Top 10 Books I Plan to Buy When I Get Some Extra Cash One Day" list. Right now food and shelter seem to be the most pressing needs.

Green Baggins A bit deep for the layperson at times, but a helpful blog from Lane Keister, a Presbyterian Church in America pastor. There are several contributing writers, as well.

Daily Westminster A selection from the Westminster Confession of Faith and Larger & Shorter Catechisms for use in private devotion or family worship. The reading schedule was organized by one of my favorite preachers, Dr. Joey Pipa, Jr.

Homeschool Spanish Co-Op Lunch Celebration!

2010-11-10T14:59:00.002-05:00

It was a great first session in the homeschool Spanish co-op for Gabe and Ethan. They got a great introduction to the Spanish language and worked on some fun projects and homework. Today they ordered their lunch in Spanish at San Felipe Mexican Restaurant in Tramway and enjoyed the fellowship of their classmates from the Christian Home Educators of Central Carolina. They are already looking forward to the next session after the holidays!

How Members Can Serve the Church on Sunday Morning

2010-11-07T21:19:00.001-05:00

From the 9Marks blog.

How Members Can Serve the Church on Sunday Morning

Random Pic from the Week

2010-11-05T19:56:00.001-04:00

We had a good coupon from restaurant.com for a local Irish pub in Surfside Beach called "O'Keefe's." It was a great lunch. Ethan and I had a game of darts while waiting on our burgers. He almost beat me. Almost.

Sunrise

2010-11-05T08:38:00.001-04:00

I love how the rays spring up from the horizon. The ocean was calm and smooth. It's been a nice week. We're heading home shortly.

Ethan Our Early Riser

2010-11-05T08:36:00.002-04:00

7:00 AM on the beach right in front of our camper. It was beautiful, as always.

A Rainy Last Day at the Beach

2010-11-04T11:27:00.001-04:00

We had five rain-free days, so we won't complain too much about this one rainy day. Most trips to the beach where we have a rainy day or two find us lounging in the library or walking through the mall. This morning we chose the library, though we may grab some lunch and hit the mall later if the rain keeps up. The forecast has it raining pretty much through the evening, so we'll have to get creative.

A Nice Finish To Supper

2010-11-03T21:09:00.002-04:00

He ate his meat, and now he'll have his pudding. With some chocolate milk to boot. K&W Cafeteria in Surfside Beach. I wish we had a K&W in sunny Sanford, NC!

Homeschool at the Beach

2010-11-03T19:12:00.000-04:00

They work hard early in the morning to have the rest of the day for the beach and play.

Homeschool at the Beach 2

2010-11-03T19:11:00.002-04:00

Stacie helps Caden with his preschool.

2010-11-02T19:56:00.000-04:00

A little Baskin Robbins on a cold evening is good for everybody. Caden is loving this Rainbow Sherbert.

Back at the Beach

2010-10-31T14:16:00.001-04:00

A perfect afternoon to lounge in the sun. Upper 70's with a slight breeze.

2010-10-30T21:28:00.001-04:00

The first night of the fall beach camping trip had us doing about 30-minutes of trick-or-treating in the campground, running out for some Japanese for supper, grabbing about 20-things from Walmart, and coming back to the camper to organize a bit. The boys are keeping themselves busy with computer games and silly bands (the horror) as we draw close to bedtime. We're hoping for a nice, quiet week of vacation.

Most of the campground will empty by tomorrow at lunch. It sure is packed solid tonight. I have a big day of fishing coming up on Monday with my buddy Heath. Looking forward to it!

Ethan Shooting the Bow

2010-10-25T21:16:00.003-04:00

Ethan Shooting the Bow
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

A natural with the bow and arrow, Ethan looks like he might be lining up a nice buck from 20' up in the air in a deer stand. He loves archery!

Gabe and Ethan attended "Webelos Woods" with Troop 942 and Pack 942 this past weekend. The Troop helped the Pack with a number of activities Saturday throughout the day and there were a few other Troops/Packs from the local scouting district. Gabe camped with the Troop on Friday evening and Ethan and the Webelos came up early Saturday morning.

Friday evening I was packing up a few things and bent down to pick up a shirt from the floor when I felt the little pop in my lower back. Once again I have thrown my back out, which caused me not to be able to take Ethan Saturday morning. Stacie stepped in at the last minute and took him to the campsite, though they did not stay the night. They all returned Saturday evening and we enjoyed some time at home together. Caden was very helpful with his bed-ridden Dad throughout the day while the others were away.

So, I was confined to the bed a good 16-18 hours per day Saturday and Sunday, and somehow managed to go in to work this morning for a couple of hours to do payroll for my team. That almost beat me down, as walking is extremely painful. I am going to see a doctor in Cary tomorrow to see about an ESI. My last one was 3-years ago, and it worked like a charm. I'm hoping to get the same results this time, as well.

Boy Scout Gabe

2010-10-25T21:14:00.001-04:00

Boy Scout Gabe - Camping
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Gabe was happy to be with his friends in Troop 942. He enjoyed camping in the 38 degree weather and stayed quite toasty in his 20 degree bag!

Frisbee Golf Rocks

2010-10-21T22:15:00.003-04:00

Frisbee Golf Rocks
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

The local homeschool group does a lot of fun things through the year. Today was Frisbee golf, which we hope will be planned at least monthly. The boys may have enjoyed it more than the monthly bowling trip. Though wearing a sour look on his face, Caden actually had just as much fun as big brothers Gabe and Ethan.

The Nuts & Bolts of Chess

2010-10-18T21:55:00.001-04:00

chess pieces julia
Originally uploaded by j suits

Literally. Sounds like a fun project for the boys and me... Click the pic to go to the Flickr page with the "how-to."

Hanging Out Back

2010-10-18T21:34:00.002-04:00

downsized951017001720.jpg
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

So life has been stalled the last few days while several of us have been quite sickly. It started earlier last week when Gabe started throwing up one evening. The next day Caden was throwing up through the night. By Friday evening Ethan and I joined the fun, and Stacie, though not vomiting, was worn down and feeling pretty bad all day Saturday.

Since Friday evening I have lost eleven pounds of weight from not eating or drinking for three days. I was able to go in this morning long enough to do payroll for my team, but quickly abandoned any aspirations of putting in a full day by mid-morning, leaving to get some rest at home. I worked a wee bit from my home office, but am only beginning to recover a little energy from gulping down 64 oz. of Gatorade throughout the day. I ate a few corn chips for lunch, as well, and some mesquite chicken at supper was surprisingly gentle on my tummy.

I have a good 12-14 days of vacation to burn before the end of the year. We're definitely planning on escaping to the beach for another week. We may do some regional travel, as well, over a couple of long weekends. But the idea that really appeals to me is using a few days for a "staycation" and just staying at home. Maybe I'll do a little painting or fix up a few things. Or catch up on some reading. Or just plain rest. As hectic as things have been the last 120-days I could use a little time to do "nothing."

Sparkler Fun

2010-10-17T21:18:00.001-04:00

Caden's Sparkler
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

The boys ran through the night, sparklers in hand, blazing a trail through the darkness. Gabe and Ethan were yelling (screaming) with joy, while Caden would frequently stop, taking in the brightness of the little flares. Never far from a watchful father, he would quickly come for another one, his thirty seconds or so of fun having burned away. He had been begging to light the sparklers once again for several days, but I had been sick the last two nights. Though not 100%, I was happy to oblige him the thrill of another light before beginning another week of distractions and responsibility. The smiles on the boys are one of my greatest joys in this life.

C.S. Lewis on Personal Devotion

2010-10-12T21:53:00.002-04:00

I particulalry like the part about the pipe and pencil at the end. My pipe and personal journal are two of my favorite things. And I tend to like the meat of a good doctrinal book to a devotional book more often than not.

"For my own part I tend to find the doctrinal books often more helpful in devotion than the devotional books, and I rather suspect that the same experience may await many others. I believe that many who find that "nothing happens" when they sit down, or kneel down, to a book of devotion, would find that the heart sings unbidden while they are working their way through a tough bit of theology with a pipe in their teeth and a pencil in their hand." - CSL

Saturday Evening Update

2010-10-09T21:59:00.006-04:00

It’s not from a lack of time that I haven’t written to the blog, but an odd sense of distraction that has kept me from visiting the page. There’s been an enormous amount of “stuff” preoccupying my time the last few weeks, and I have not felt up to the task of creating anything significant or presenting an update of the variety of things going on in the life of the Bryant family. So, with a number of folks asking about it, and wondering what’s been going on, I thought I would offer a brief update, youngest to oldest.

Caden is just 33-days away from turning five. He is settling in to the routine of doing a little bit of homeschool each day pretty well. He is still pretty quiet, overall, somewhat stubborn like most 4-year olds, and has this really neat habit of just coming up to Stacie and me and giving us a big hug. He loves going outside and is anxious to do some tent camping.

Ethan has been playing flag football. This is his first year playing, so he is still trying to learn the game, and looks lost at times. But he had been asking to play with the pads because he wants to “hit” the other guys. I am glad I decided to give him a glimpse of the flag game, as it lets him see how to work as a team, and how several guys can affect the play. Maybe next year I’ll let him suit up. I think he would be one of the bigger kids in his age group. Most importantly, he is having a great time being out there!

Gabe is 11-years and 5-months old and stands just over 5’10” tall. He is pretty huge. His coordination hasn’t caught up with him, but that will come with time. He still loves books and reads them more than he watches TV or plays on the computer/Wii combined. There’s been talk of bumping him up a grade level, but right now I am happy he is where he is. One of the benefits of homeschool is that we determine where he is placed based on his skill level. He’ll do fine either way.

Stacie has been busy. When the phrase “a woman’s work is never done” came around it was made with women like her in mind. She is still a master of the coupon, and boggles my brain at times with the deals she comes up with. Paying ten bucks for fifty dollars’ worth of groceries is no longer impressive to her. She wants the real bargain. Homeschool has been going well this year, and the boys are working hard. I think she is ready for another quick trip to the beach, though.

I have been busier than ever at work. I had a recent regional audit, somehow escaped a bigger corporate audit (that I really wanted to do), and completed the entire year-end processes of inventory, annual budgeting for next year, capital reconciliation of all fixed assets, vacation liability reports, etc. etc. I also had a big meeting in Charlotte with a number of execs from the company. The bulk of this happened while my mother was undergoing complicated surgery and we were facing a 10-day vacation where everything was paid for, but little would be refunded if we cancelled. Talk about a wee bit of stress.

Somehow God worked it all out and things for the most part have gone well. My mother is recovering, despite having to go through a second surgery to fix a few things, and has a good number of family and friends helping her up in Winston-Salem. The vacation was a good time away despite about half of it being rained out. The meeting in Charlotte went better than expected and the boss (and his boss) seem to be pretty happy with me. And all of the year end business was turned in on time, despite my having to turn it in a good 10-days earlier than my peers due to my choice of vacation time. (Lesson learned.)

So the fall (mid-September through Thanksgiving weekend) is the busiest time of the year for us. This fall is no different. Almost every night has something planned. Monday and Tuesday the boys have Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, respectively. Thursday nights Ethan has football practice. Wednesdays are always a late work day for me, with my typically getting home after 7:00 PM. Saturdays always have either a scouting activity or campout and football games for Ethan. Sunday is the Lord’s Day, and we commit all of it to church and fellowship or rest.

The new Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC) church plant we have joined in Cary, NC, is Shiloh Presbyterian Church. http://www.shilohopc.org/ is the web address. It started in early June and has been a fantastic church home for us thus far. Though we are still searching for a pastor we have been blessed with the likes of Joey Pipa, Jr., Lacy Andrews, Bill Shishko, Phil Proctor, Dr. John Carrick, Dr. Sid Dyer, and Matthew Judd preaching for us. When we reviewed the mission and values of this work we knew it would be a great work to join. So, we transferred our membership from Providence OPC in Greensboro to Shiloh and now enjoy a 30-minute drive as opposed to a 70-minute drive to church. We miss our brothers and sisters at Providence, but are quite anxious to continue growing with our new work.

Shiloh Presbyterian has a good 17-18 families making up a portion of the maybe 80-90 members and regular attendees to start. Almost all of the families homeschool and perhaps half of the group are children under 18. We have quickly come to love the people in this work. Their fervency for their faith is inspiring and contagious.

The mission work is reformed theologically, and covenantal in its approach to Christian living, which is what I am eager for in my own family’s Christian walk. Most importantly there is a strong desire for Christocentric preaching that is applicable to gospel-centered living in the life of the believer. We are very eager to see who God provides to shepherd our congregation, and to see God raise up men to be our elders and deacons.

Recently reading:

The Puritan Library - http://www.puritanlibrary.com/ - A nice collection of works from the Puritans. I have been going there often the last few weeks.

Knowing God by J.I. Packer – This is the same book I read in 1991, but it is a completely different read. Amazing. If you have never read it, I strongly urge you to pick it up.

Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by RC Sproul – I have been reading this at bedtime with Stacie. It’s a great intro to many facets of the faith for her.

Training Hearts, Teaching Minds by Starr Meade – We have been using this summary of the Westminster Shorter Catechism off and on in our family worship throughout the week.

Recent Web Sites:

http://www.chapellibrary.org/ – Free (limited) tracts, booklets, and books from a Puritan and reformed perspective. Donations appreciated. A very nice collection of works.

http://www.esvonline.org/ – The English Standard Version of the Holy Bible online. Create an account, take and keep notes, highlight text, listen to audio of the text, utilize daily reading plans. A great tool.

http://www.reformationart.com/ – Prints and posters of key figures and events related to the reformation through the ages. I think I am going to buy a few to decorate a few empty walls in our home!

http://www.wtsbooks.com/ – The bookstore of Westminster Theological Seminary. You can typically count on them for having the lowest prices on most reformed titles, Bibles, and more.

2010-09-24T10:44:00.000-04:00

We made it right at dark last night. After a good breakfast the boys are in the sand and surf. Nine days of beach fun are here!

A Beautiful Day for the Gun Range

2010-09-04T11:50:00.001-04:00

I'm mainly shooting through some older pistol and .223 ammo. I haven't lost my touch.

More on Caden's First Days of School

2010-08-27T18:36:00.002-04:00

He's reading his little workbook he created to me.

His First School Project

2010-08-23T11:21:00.001-04:00

His First School Project
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Caden has officially started pre-school in the homeschool. The last year or so he has done a few things with colors, numbers, reading, and writing. But this will be his first "official" year of school with a regimented daily schedule of academics, art, etc. We think he'll do fine and be much more prepared to begin Kindergarten next year. This morning he completed an art project. A raccoon! Doesn't he look thrilled to be in school??? OK, it will grow on him.

The homeschool room is ready, curriculum is in place, the students - Gabe, Ethan, and Caden - are excited, and the teacher (Mommy) is all set for a great year.

Coupon Master

2010-08-13T23:34:00.002-04:00

couponfood.jpg
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Stacie continues her dominance in the world of couponing. I remember when we first got married. She would go to the grocery store with 2-3 coupons she happened to see in the paper. Now she has a huge red binder all sectioned out in some order with pages upon pages of baseball card holders full of coupons. The detail to organization is amazing!

She gets pretty excited when she scores huge savings. For the year she has been averaging around $32 paid for every $100 worth of food, and she plans to do much better.She tells me she wants to dip below $25 per $100 soon.

Tonight she sent me this picture of a number of items, including milk, orange juice, french bread (yummy french toast!), Pop Tarts, apple sauce, Rice Krispy Treats, cheddar cheese, yogurt, cereal, turkey breast, etc. She brought this nice pile of food home for the grand total of $3.65.

Yes, that is three dollars and some change. One gallon of milk should have cost that. This trip is certainly going to lower her average!

She is getting good!

Flashback Friday: Ethan Shoots!

2010-07-16T07:55:00.001-04:00

Ethan Shoots!
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

Back in 2007 I snapped this shot of Ethan dribbling off Gabe, stopping, and popping a jumper with great form for a 6-year old. He dropped several shots in a row from 15' from the dirt court yesterday. He's signing up for flag football this week. He loves his sports.

Delicious "Sugar Baby" Watermelon

2010-07-14T18:13:00.000-04:00

Delicious Watermelon
Originally uploaded by Joe Jon!

The first watermelon (of what appears to be close to a dozen?) picked from the garden was delicious. These little "Sugar Baby" watermelons are not as big as we thought they would be, but it was fun growing them, nonetheless.

The garden was (and still is) a fun idea, and we learned a lot of lessons this spring and summer. We're going to expand on it next year, but have decided to focus on the vegetables we actually enjoy and can get the most bang for the buck on. Corn, watermelon, cucumber, squash, and zucchini come to mind. There may be a couple more. Hopefully we'll see more success.