Early this morning, our Buddy Bunny passed away. He had a personality of endless curiosity and boldness. Buddy would run up to any animal that came in the backyard, and try to play with them (despite whatever intentions said visitor initially came with). This resulted in a ton of funny moments with neighborhood cats, a few inappropriate ones with the younger ones he could catch (!), and a single harrowing encounter with a raccoon that Buddy miraculously survived.
Buddy liked Jessica best, and would come when she'd call - though he would often run up to me too - only to taunt me by running circles just outside of petting reach. But we still had lots of cuddles in between the games of chase. Buddy would flex into your hand as you scratched his sides for him, and if you did both sides, it was like he was dancing. What made it funnier is that this always started him reflexively licking - which he would do the entire time.
Buddy had one "wife" of sorts, my cousin's white Angora named Ghost from whom 4 offspring were born. He did have "strong feelings" towards our cat Roxy - who vehemently rejected his endless advances.
Overall though, Buddy lived a very happy life. He knew cats and chickens best, and loved his people. He was King of the Backyard - and was undoubtedly the best pet we've owned after Monster. We'll always remember our amazing Buddy Bunny...
Monday, October 10, 2016
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Contentment
Psalm 37:4
New International Version (NIV)
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
Enjoy serving the Lord,
and he will give you whatever you ask for.
Enjoy serving the Lord,
and he will give you whatever you ask for.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
Delight yourself in the Lord,
And He will give you the desires and petitions of your heart.
Delight yourself in the Lord,
And He will give you the desires and petitions of your heart.
The Voice (VOICE)
Take great joy in the Eternal!
His gifts are coming, and they are all your heart desires!
Take great joy in the Eternal!
His gifts are coming, and they are all your heart desires!
1 Timothy 6:6-8
New International Version (NIV)6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)6 Devotion to God is, in fact, a way for people to be very rich, but only if it makes them satisfied with what they have. 7 When we came into the world, we brought nothing. And when we die, we can take nothing out.8 So, if we have food and clothes, we will be satisfied with that.
Amplified Bible (AMP)6 But godliness actually is a source of great gain when accompanied by contentment [that contentment which comes from a sense of inner confidence based on the sufficiency of God]. 7 For we have brought nothing into the world, so [it is clear that] we cannot take anything out of it, either. 8 But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.
The Voice (VOICE)6 This is ironic because godliness, along with contentment, does put us ahead but not in the ways some imagine. 7 You see we came into this world with nothing, and nothing is going with us on the way out! 8 So as long as we are clothed and fed, we should be happy.
Philippians 4:11-13
New International Version (NIV)11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
11 I am telling you this, but not because I need something. I have learned to be satisfied with what I have and with whatever happens. 12 I know how to live when I am poor and when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of how to live through any kind of situation—when I have enough to eat or when I am hungry, when I have everything I need or when I have nothing. 13 Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.
11 I am telling you this, but not because I need something. I have learned to be satisfied with what I have and with whatever happens. 12 I know how to live when I am poor and when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of how to live through any kind of situation—when I have enough to eat or when I am hungry, when I have everything I need or when I have nothing. 13 Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
11 Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances. 12 I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. 13 I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]
11 Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances. 12 I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. 13 I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]
The Voice (VOICE)
11 I am not saying this because I am in need. I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances. 12 I know how to survive in tight situations, and I know how to enjoy having plenty. In fact, I have learned how to face any circumstances: fed or hungry, with or without.13 I can be content in any and every situation through the Anointed One who is my power and strength.
James 4:1-3
11 I am not saying this because I am in need. I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances. 12 I know how to survive in tight situations, and I know how to enjoy having plenty. In fact, I have learned how to face any circumstances: fed or hungry, with or without.13 I can be content in any and every situation through the Anointed One who is my power and strength.
James 4:1-3
New International Version (NIV)
Submit Yourselves to God
4 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
Submit Yourselves to God
4 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
Give Yourselves to God
4 Do you know where your fights and arguments come from? They come from the selfish desires that make war inside you. 2 You want things, but you don’t get them. So you kill and are jealous of others. But you still cannot get what you want. So you argue and fight. You don’t get what you want because you don’t ask God. 3 Or when you ask, you don’t receive anything, because the reason you ask is wrong. You only want to use it for your own pleasure.
4 Do you know where your fights and arguments come from? They come from the selfish desires that make war inside you. 2 You want things, but you don’t get them. So you kill and are jealous of others. But you still cannot get what you want. So you argue and fight. You don’t get what you want because you don’t ask God. 3 Or when you ask, you don’t receive anything, because the reason you ask is wrong. You only want to use it for your own pleasure.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
Things to Avoid
4 What leads to [the unending] [a]quarrels and conflicts among you? Do they not come from your [hedonistic] desires that wage war in your [bodily] members [fighting for control over you]? 2 You are jealous andcovet [what others have] and [b]your lust goes unfulfilled; so you[c]murder. You are envious and cannot obtain [the object of your envy]; so you fight and battle. You do not have because you do not ask [it of God]. 3 You ask [God for something] and do not receive it, because you ask [d]with wrong motives [out of selfishness or with an unrighteous agenda], so that [when you get what you want] you may spend it on your [hedonistic] desires.
The Voice (VOICE)
Worldly wisdom may promise the good life, but it leads to chaos and destruction every time. Ultimately true wisdom comes from God.
4 Where do you think your fighting and endless conflict come from? Don’t you think that they originate in the constant pursuit of gratification that rages inside each of you like an uncontrolled militia? 2 You crave something that you do not possess, so you murder to get it. You desire the things you cannot earn, so you sue others and fight for what you want. You do not have because you have chosen not to ask. 3 And when you do ask, you still do not get what you want because your motives are all wrong—because you continually focus on self-indulgence.
Things to Avoid
4 What leads to [the unending] [a]quarrels and conflicts among you? Do they not come from your [hedonistic] desires that wage war in your [bodily] members [fighting for control over you]? 2 You are jealous andcovet [what others have] and [b]your lust goes unfulfilled; so you[c]murder. You are envious and cannot obtain [the object of your envy]; so you fight and battle. You do not have because you do not ask [it of God]. 3 You ask [God for something] and do not receive it, because you ask [d]with wrong motives [out of selfishness or with an unrighteous agenda], so that [when you get what you want] you may spend it on your [hedonistic] desires.
The Voice (VOICE)
Worldly wisdom may promise the good life, but it leads to chaos and destruction every time. Ultimately true wisdom comes from God.
4 Where do you think your fighting and endless conflict come from? Don’t you think that they originate in the constant pursuit of gratification that rages inside each of you like an uncontrolled militia? 2 You crave something that you do not possess, so you murder to get it. You desire the things you cannot earn, so you sue others and fight for what you want. You do not have because you have chosen not to ask. 3 And when you do ask, you still do not get what you want because your motives are all wrong—because you continually focus on self-indulgence.
Matthew 6:31-34
New International Version (NIV)
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
31 “Don’t worry and say, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 That’s what those people who don’t know God are always thinking about. Don’t worry, because your Father in heaven knows that you need all these things. 33 What you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what he wants you to do. Then he will give you all these other things you need. 34 So don’t worry about tomorrow. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Tomorrow will have its own worries.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
31 Therefore do not worry or be anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted), saying, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ 32 For the [pagan] Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; [but do not worry,] for your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The Voice (VOICE)
31 So do not consume yourselves with questions: What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? 32 Outsiders make themselves frantic over such questions; they don’t realize that your heavenly Father knows exactly what you need. 33 Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these things will be given to youtoo. 34 So do not worry about tomorrow. Let tomorrow worry about itself. Living faithfully is a large enough task for today.
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)
31 “Don’t worry and say, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 That’s what those people who don’t know God are always thinking about. Don’t worry, because your Father in heaven knows that you need all these things. 33 What you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what he wants you to do. Then he will give you all these other things you need. 34 So don’t worry about tomorrow. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Tomorrow will have its own worries.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
31 Therefore do not worry or be anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted), saying, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ 32 For the [pagan] Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; [but do not worry,] for your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The Voice (VOICE)
31 So do not consume yourselves with questions: What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? 32 Outsiders make themselves frantic over such questions; they don’t realize that your heavenly Father knows exactly what you need. 33 Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these things will be given to youtoo. 34 So do not worry about tomorrow. Let tomorrow worry about itself. Living faithfully is a large enough task for today.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
When can we get a dog?
My desire to get a dog doesn't seem to ever fully go away. Jessica wishes it would because to get one would cause her great suffering from the smell... And my ongoing wanting for one makes her feel like she cannot ever make me content.
I don't want to make her feel like she cannot please me if she cannot grant this wish. How would I feel if there was something Jessica always wanted but I could never give without great discomfort? Wouldn't I be hurt that she would want something that would cause me problems? I would feel helpless, and a false-guilt, like I'm the bad guy for always saying no.
Maybe I just need to pray daily to be happy without a dog... Ask God to change this desire in me...
I recognize that I do need to relearn the secret of being content in any and every circumstance. Dog is not my God. Dog is not my spouse, or kids.
But don't they each fill different holes/needs in life?
Do I want a dog because I'm depressed, or am I depressed because I still want a dog?
Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
I know that a dog doesn't solve any problems in life, and that I have to go to God for my comfort and help... But I guess I feel like a dog helps me get there- helps me to seek God.
A dog to me represents unconditional love. Positivity every morning. The best listener. One who feels with and for you. In those ways, it reminds me of those quality of God. A dog gets me (prayer) walking and makes me want to play...
So when would it be right to reconsider getting a dog?
-when my job is secure
-when we are out of debt
-when I've saved up enough for initial costs ($2k)
-when Bella has no accidents
-when I have time to train it and help it integrate into our family (PTO)
-when there is nothing else crazy going on
-when I get advice first : outside perspective about the readiness of our family for adding a member. Do others see us as ready? What potential problems am I blinding myself to?
-when Buddy and Roxy are gone(?)
-when I'm doing well spiritually: consistent with God and content in life, so that I'm not seeking a dog out of desperation or need for an emotional escape
What is the REALITY of owning a dog vs the IDEAL in my mind of what it is like...
Monday, November 09, 2015
Nov 9 - 2015 The day of Monster's passing
Today my beloved kitty passed away. Monster was like a dog to me - loyal, playful, intelligent, comforting. Monster was affectionate without being sycophantic. He would play tag, lick my head, jump in bags, tolerate cuddling children.... he was the BEST CAT EVER.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
10th Anniversary Indoor Skydiving
We had a BLAST going to Half Moon Bay for our 10th Anniversary, and one of the highlights was doing some Indoor Skydiving!
Monday, October 08, 2012
God ALWAYS comes through...
It seems so sadly silly that we humans have such a short memory-span. If I look at my past, I can clearly recall numerous ways that God has come through and provided for me... yet I still manage to get nervous, fearful, and short-sighted. Good thing he's patient and likes to impress his children! (I can kinda relate there)
One day before my company CS was announced to be acquired, I received notice of a job from a colleague that I'd worked with for just 3 months right out of college at WP. There's no reason she should have remembered me, except that God put me in her mind! She and our old manager (who I really liked) both landed at this company called WR.
The next day, the company I was at announced the acquisition publicly, and I learned that Kaiser coverage would end for employees of the new company. This would have forced my hand, in having to search.
I applied for the SDR position at WR, and got an interview even though there were 2 others ahead of me that had already completed the interviewing process. Our face to face meeting went well and Trushar seemed like a person that I'd do well working under. We setup tentative time to have a follow up call for the next day at 630pm.
After receiving no response from Tru by noon, I decided to give him a quick call - and surprise him by initiating a Mock Call...
I dialed. He answered. I said, "Hello, is this Trushar?" (Yes) "This is Tim Crose from WR. I was just exploring your website and it looked to me that your company does quite a bit of work in the embedded development space..." From there we continued role playing for a few minutes and he loved it. Towards the end I said, "Listen, I'd really like to setup another call with you and perhaps pull in some of my more technical counterparts to discuss a potential fit with WR. Will tonight at 630 work for you?" (Trying again to confirm our previous arrangement). Tru said "No - I don't think that will be necessary." I said, "Ok, well what next step will work best for you:?" Trushar said "Well I'm going to get you an OFFER!"
And the rest was history.
God provided for my family once again - and though the environment was WAY more technical than I'd ever been exposed to before, He protected me from being overwhelmed or discouraged thanks to Trushar (a great manager) and the fact that I already had friends inside!
I'm just getting close to the 1 month mark at this new job - and already it seems too good to be true.
Thank you, Heavenly Father! You're a great Dad.
-TC
One day before my company CS was announced to be acquired, I received notice of a job from a colleague that I'd worked with for just 3 months right out of college at WP. There's no reason she should have remembered me, except that God put me in her mind! She and our old manager (who I really liked) both landed at this company called WR.
The next day, the company I was at announced the acquisition publicly, and I learned that Kaiser coverage would end for employees of the new company. This would have forced my hand, in having to search.
I applied for the SDR position at WR, and got an interview even though there were 2 others ahead of me that had already completed the interviewing process. Our face to face meeting went well and Trushar seemed like a person that I'd do well working under. We setup tentative time to have a follow up call for the next day at 630pm.
After receiving no response from Tru by noon, I decided to give him a quick call - and surprise him by initiating a Mock Call...
I dialed. He answered. I said, "Hello, is this Trushar?" (Yes) "This is Tim Crose from WR. I was just exploring your website and it looked to me that your company does quite a bit of work in the embedded development space..." From there we continued role playing for a few minutes and he loved it. Towards the end I said, "Listen, I'd really like to setup another call with you and perhaps pull in some of my more technical counterparts to discuss a potential fit with WR. Will tonight at 630 work for you?" (Trying again to confirm our previous arrangement). Tru said "No - I don't think that will be necessary." I said, "Ok, well what next step will work best for you:?" Trushar said "Well I'm going to get you an OFFER!"
And the rest was history.
God provided for my family once again - and though the environment was WAY more technical than I'd ever been exposed to before, He protected me from being overwhelmed or discouraged thanks to Trushar (a great manager) and the fact that I already had friends inside!
I'm just getting close to the 1 month mark at this new job - and already it seems too good to be true.
Thank you, Heavenly Father! You're a great Dad.
-TC
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
Last night I had my own "Inception" experience: I had a dream within a dream! In the 1st layer, I was asleep in bed with my wife Jessica Crose (on a boat?) and in the 2nd layer I was an astronaut crashing back to earth in a ship or space station... (that's a first!) ...at some point there was also extensive motorcycle and dirt bike activity - I think I was racing along Joshua Struwe and Matt Sustaita. When I woke up from layer 2, my uncle John Sullivan came into the room, grabbed me out of bed and threw me over his head! I flipped (love my dream reflexes!) and that woke me up from layer 1 as well. DANG. That was pretty exciting. Hafta try to do that again!!!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
On to bigger and better things
We have been undisciplined with our finances and struggled for some time with trying to make ends meet for a family of four with only 1 income. Because of a lack of faith and the aforementioned lack of discipline, our contribution had been irregular.
Jess and I decided that we were going to repent and give contribution on faith, believing the Scriptures of God's promises about opening the floodgates (he even invites us to test him in this!). We were tapping credit each month anyways, so what else could happen?
Now we had an ongoing prayer that God would not let me lose my job before letting me get into my next one... that I would have seamless employment because as the breadwinner - EVERYTHING rides on my being able to bring an income.
After talking with my ex-neighbor, I put in an application with Sprint. I thought it went out into the void because I never heard anything back. My neighbor and I reconnected with our families and he told me that he did submit my resume and that he thought I would be a great candidate for an open position on his team.
A week later I was interview with his boss. A week after that I was interviewing with his Boss's Boss.
And then I was waiting for an offer.... and waiting.... and waiting.
I was getting anxious because it was taking what seemed like FOREVER to get things to move forward. And I was just ITCHING to put in my 2 weeks notice.
And then the MIRACLE happened: on Sept 1st, I got laid off!
I was working at home because of a jury duty summons, sitting in my pajamas when I got the call. It was beautiful. Because I was getting laid off as part of a reduction in force, I would be getting severance! So that explains it! God was delaying my offer because if I had put in notice that week as planned, I would have missed out on the FREE MONEY!
So now I am expecting to start on Sept 16th, and am enjoying the 2 weeks off. God has taken care of us financially and answered the prayer to protect my job EVEN BETTER than I could have imagined.
Praise be to the Almighty God, who loves and is able to answer prayers! AMEN!
---- UPDATE ----
September was really a month of testing for my faith. Week 1 had my joyful as I believed the plan to be for me to start with Sprint. Week 2 had me depressed as no offer came through. Week 3 was me realizing that I can't put my family through my selfish moodiness, and have to suck it up and regroup. Week 4 was me repenting and applying for jobs again. Sprint told me they still want me, but won't be able to get an offer out till mid Nov at the EARLIEST. My severance will only last to cover Nov mortgage. Not sure what to do here...
Now, into October - I posted on FB my urgent need for help finding a job, asking my friends if there were openings in the companies that they could refer me for. Sent the same message via email to all my church contacts. OVER 20 people responded, providing links to their companies' websites and expressing support.
I applied again to Trancos, a company that I'd previously had a great interview with but never heard back from. The position I'd applied for was still listed on their website. Got in the door for round two - and this time got an offer! But complications: it's in Pleasonton which is not BART accessible, so we'd have to buy a car. For several months I'd just be building up my book of business, so no real commissions to enjoy. And Kaiser doesn't start for 90 days. SIGH.
I also got some traction via a friend on a temp position in SF, with MarketTools. They gave me an offer, and even though the position is only until Feb to cover for someone's maternity leave - it is great pay and no cold calling - and keeps me in my field selling tech solutions! AMEN. I accepted. Still have to do COBRA, but at least with greater income, I can cover that cost.
But now I'm sick and have to get a PICC line for IV antibiotics. Boo. I at least feel like I have more strength now because I want to do everything I can to stay healthy and provide for my family.
Still waiting on social security disability claim (200+ days!), but have new hope there to Expedite the process.
We'll see what's next.
Jess and I decided that we were going to repent and give contribution on faith, believing the Scriptures of God's promises about opening the floodgates (he even invites us to test him in this!). We were tapping credit each month anyways, so what else could happen?
Now we had an ongoing prayer that God would not let me lose my job before letting me get into my next one... that I would have seamless employment because as the breadwinner - EVERYTHING rides on my being able to bring an income.
After talking with my ex-neighbor, I put in an application with Sprint. I thought it went out into the void because I never heard anything back. My neighbor and I reconnected with our families and he told me that he did submit my resume and that he thought I would be a great candidate for an open position on his team.
A week later I was interview with his boss. A week after that I was interviewing with his Boss's Boss.
And then I was waiting for an offer.... and waiting.... and waiting.
I was getting anxious because it was taking what seemed like FOREVER to get things to move forward. And I was just ITCHING to put in my 2 weeks notice.
And then the MIRACLE happened: on Sept 1st, I got laid off!
I was working at home because of a jury duty summons, sitting in my pajamas when I got the call. It was beautiful. Because I was getting laid off as part of a reduction in force, I would be getting severance! So that explains it! God was delaying my offer because if I had put in notice that week as planned, I would have missed out on the FREE MONEY!
So now I am expecting to start on Sept 16th, and am enjoying the 2 weeks off. God has taken care of us financially and answered the prayer to protect my job EVEN BETTER than I could have imagined.
Praise be to the Almighty God, who loves and is able to answer prayers! AMEN!
---- UPDATE ----
September was really a month of testing for my faith. Week 1 had my joyful as I believed the plan to be for me to start with Sprint. Week 2 had me depressed as no offer came through. Week 3 was me realizing that I can't put my family through my selfish moodiness, and have to suck it up and regroup. Week 4 was me repenting and applying for jobs again. Sprint told me they still want me, but won't be able to get an offer out till mid Nov at the EARLIEST. My severance will only last to cover Nov mortgage. Not sure what to do here...
Now, into October - I posted on FB my urgent need for help finding a job, asking my friends if there were openings in the companies that they could refer me for. Sent the same message via email to all my church contacts. OVER 20 people responded, providing links to their companies' websites and expressing support.
I applied again to Trancos, a company that I'd previously had a great interview with but never heard back from. The position I'd applied for was still listed on their website. Got in the door for round two - and this time got an offer! But complications: it's in Pleasonton which is not BART accessible, so we'd have to buy a car. For several months I'd just be building up my book of business, so no real commissions to enjoy. And Kaiser doesn't start for 90 days. SIGH.
I also got some traction via a friend on a temp position in SF, with MarketTools. They gave me an offer, and even though the position is only until Feb to cover for someone's maternity leave - it is great pay and no cold calling - and keeps me in my field selling tech solutions! AMEN. I accepted. Still have to do COBRA, but at least with greater income, I can cover that cost.
But now I'm sick and have to get a PICC line for IV antibiotics. Boo. I at least feel like I have more strength now because I want to do everything I can to stay healthy and provide for my family.
Still waiting on social security disability claim (200+ days!), but have new hope there to Expedite the process.
We'll see what's next.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
Skydiving 2007
Found this video and actually had some software to rip and upload it!
good memories of my first skydive...
good memories of my first skydive...
Monday, February 21, 2011
Presidential Quotes
Happy President’s Day!
Here are some not so famous quotes from each of the Presidents on our money.
$1 Bill/Quarter
George Washington -1st President
“I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.”
$2 Bill/Nickel
Thomas Jefferson- Third President
“A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government.”
$5 Bill/Penny
Abraham Lincoln – 16th President
“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”
$20 Bill
Andrew Jackson -7th President
“As long as our government is administered for the good of the people, and is regulated by their will; as long as it secures to us the rights of persons and of property, liberty of conscience and of the press, it will be worth defending. “
Franklin Rooselvelt –dime – 32nd President
“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.”
John Kennedy Half Dollar 35th President
“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.”
Dwight Eisenhower – Silver Dollar 34th President
“A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Keepin' the Love ALIVE
Instead of giving Jess a bouquet of flowers and box of Chocolates, I gave her a bouquet of Chocolates, and box of (edible) flowers!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Spiritual Decision Making:
- Should I date/marry this person or that one (or not at all)?
- What schools should I apply and consider going to?
- Join the Military, Get a Job, or Go to School?
- Take the Job or Stay put?
- Have kids now, later, not at all?
- Do I need Surgery, meds, or should I hold out for a miracle?
- Do I move or stay?
When you're faced with a tough, scary, or deeply emotional decision, how do you go about making a choice?
- Do you avoid it until the last minute and then let chance/fate/other people dictate the course of your life? (Prov 20:4)
- Do you respond impulsively and give into your emotions - leading you to whatever decision "feels" best? (Eph 4:14)
- Do you agonize over everything and try to think your way through it? (Prov 21:30)
- Or - do you seek God's guidance through his Word, Prayer, and the Spiritual Family He's surrounded you with? (Eph 5:15-17)
How you go about the decision making process says a lot about your faith and trust in God, your humility, and the network of friends and advisers you've surrounded yourself with.
We are all surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses (Heb 12:1), and since we're supposed to live our lives openly and in the light (1 Pet 2:12), with Jesus as Lord (including Lord of our Decisions!) - how we go about finding answers and understanding can make a huge spiritual impact to those around us. (1 Cor 8:6)
Here's the process that I've tried to implement for large life decisions (and many more mundane ones as well):
- Identify the decision as far in advance as possible (Prov 4:26; 14:8, 15; 21:29)
- Figure out what choices you have available (obvious ones and even the long-shots) (Luke 16:1-15)
- Map out pros/cons, the "what if's", "x leads to y" type scenarios as far as you can take them (Psalms 119:59, 128)(Prov 20:25) (Luke 14:25-33)
- Now Pray...
- honestly about your heart's desires. (Prov 13:12)
- asking God to reveal and refine your motives (since your heart may be lying to you) (Psalm 44:21, 139:23) (Jer 17:9-10)
- asking for discernment and clarity of mind (1Peter 4:7)
- for an obvious answer (Psalm 85:8-13) (Prov 3:6, 4:11, 11:5)
- to submit your will and for help trusting even when you don't like the answer... so that things go HIS way and not just yours, acknowledging that his paths and understanding are ALWAYS better than your own. (Isaiah 55)
- Study your Bible
- all related word searches
- topical searches
- spiritual books about the topic
- events/situations in the bible that relate (how would you respond in the same situation? what did the character do right / wrong?)
- Choose your advisers and present the situation to them, soliciting their input(Prov 11:14, 12:5, 12:15, 13:10, 15:22, 19:20, 20:18) - think through those you know, asking...
- "who has experience with this?"
- "who do I admire/respect spiritually?"
- "who knows me well?"
- Do I have enough here to make a decision that I am confident will honor God and be blessed? If not...
- Seek more advisers if the matter is not clear. (Prov 13:20) This is a GREAT opportunity to let other Godly Men and Women (perhaps outside of your normal spheres of contact) influence your life and get to know you better...
- Lastly - if you have any mentors in the world, you may tap those shoulders as well - because again, your humility here may move their hearts towards a relationship with God. But be especially careful with their responses, since they may not be working with the same priorities (like pleasing God first) as you...
- Compile and Review all of the input that you receive. Pray about it. Follow it in faith (Prov 16:1-3) because...
- God likes giving good gifts to his children (Mt 7:11)
- He always works for your best interest (Romans 8:28)
- You are working with integrity to make not just a "good" decision - but the BEST decision... (2Tim 2:15)
- God has power to bless and protect you - even if the end result feels painful, seems to fail, etc. He won't let bad advice that you received - but faithfully followed out of deference for Him - ever ruin your life or make you miss your true blessings, potential, inheritance.(Prov13:6)
- Repeat steps 2-8 as needed/able until you can proceed confidently or your deadline for deciding arrives. Hopefully the former and not the latter :-)
I consider my life to be extremely blessed - and I attribute that not to my deserving it, but to my striving to walk and live the way most pleasing to God (as much as I can!). I hope this study and these practicals lead to the same for you!
Your bro,
Timbo
Friday, January 14, 2011
A dream come true!
Best of the Bay - Espetus San Francisco from Espetus.com on Vimeo.
Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
Proverbs 13:19
A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul...
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Remember and be grateful...
After soliciting input about how to deal with a tight financial situation and strong desire to go snowboarding with my wife - 3 friends offered to provide $50 each! This might be a conspiracy of love...
I just want to be grateful for God's blessings on my friends, and moving their hearts to share those blessings with us! Because of God's Kingdom we are very rich indeed!
We will continue to ask God to honor his promise to Abraham for us as well:
Genesis 12:3
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Luke 16:9
I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
Romans 13:8
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.
I just want to be grateful for God's blessings on my friends, and moving their hearts to share those blessings with us! Because of God's Kingdom we are very rich indeed!
We will continue to ask God to honor his promise to Abraham for us as well:
Genesis 12:3
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Luke 16:9
I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
Romans 13:8
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Tim(e) Well Spent
I took vacation time this past December for a couple reasons:
- Help keep Jess out of the Darkness of a Deep Depression
- Spend time with friends and family
- Have a few adventures
- Because I had to... work was closed (for 1 week)
I am happy to reflect on this time off as being well spent (as am I, after it all!)...
- Dec10 - Girls' 2 year birthday. Brought pizza and cupcakes to school and prepped the house for the party.
- Dec11 - Successful 2nd Bday Bash for the Babies... Zip line action, kids wielding plastic clubs against a volleyball-pinata, Noah's Ark cake. Good time. HUGE attendance, too many gifts, spoiled babies. But with so much food, fun, friends, and family - we're just really grateful to be so loved.
- Dec13 - Helped make the twins' two year check up with the doctor a (marginally) less difficult experience.
- Dec15 - Participated in Mirabel's goal-planning meeting at WeCare.
- Facilitated for MJ's first actual use of the toilet (miraculous milestone, as any parent will attest).
- Dec18 - Join Nate Cox on a missing car investigation... aiding him in the exploration of a deep ditch off of a deserted road, in the rain. Nice little adventure :-)
- Dec20+21 - got all my Christmas shopping done in 1 day, but went and scored $30 cash back by returning everything and applying coupons!
- Dec24 - Hosted Christmas Eve with the Littleton Family.
- Top gifts received: HDMI cable, Kirkwood snowboarding gift-cards, Munchking Expansions!
- Dec25 - Attended Brunch with the Littletons, saw Jack & Mimi.
- Hosted Christmas with the Croses - Josh & Ivette made it over. Even Victor and Arica made it over for a surprise visit!
- Dec26 - Sandy & KC visit, and bring a demonic singing dog.
- Dec27 - Went to JumpSkyHigh and let the girls jump their silly little hearts out! Garrett Savage made a special appearance and hung out for the afternoon.
- Dec28 - Got my filling fixed (yay).
- Installed a pull-up bar that does double duty by supporting an indoor swing.
- Dec29 - Visited the Walters crew and played some Halo game.
- Dec30 - Took the girls to SuperFranks and burned them down over 3 hours and 3 different rooms!
- In-N-Out pig-out. Yum! 2 Double-Doubles went down all too easily.
- M.Allum came over, shared some stories, showed us some Adaptive Biblestudies, and proved to be quite a useful partner in New Super Mario Bros Wii.
- Dec31 - Matt Sustaita graced us with a Visit and babysat for us to have a quick date!
- Went to YogurtLand with my wifee to consume some pro-biotic goodness and read our Bibles and reconnect.
- Popped "fireworks" popcorn as a family for the girls' entertainment :-)
- Had AK+Cat, Jwong, and Garry "the Hulk" Hernandez over for some good grubbin', "Apples to Apples", Bomberman Blast, and ringing in the New Year! (and surprise: Jess participated in all of it!!!)
- Jan1 - Played Munchkin using my newly expanded gargantuan deck with J.Struwe and M.Allum.
- Watched "Twilight: Eclipse" with my wifee (the peaceful couch-time made up for the weak movie).
- Jan2 - Visited my Grandma June for lunch along with my parents.
I also...
- Went to at least 5 different parks with the kids to help burn off some toddler energy.
- Witnessed (and captured) many precious moments with my girls: around 40 new vids and a ton of pics generated.
- Finished the first Dexter book. Restarted The Shack.
- Discovered and completed the Trigun anime series (loved it!)
Writing all this out really helps me to think back gratefully on this time. Thanks to all who intersected my life at any point and made this vacation a good one!
Ecclesiastes 5:19 (New International Version, ©2010)
19 Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Fainting Kittens - LoL!
This has got to be one of the funniest things I've ever seen. Better than goats, because you EXPECT them to have "cat-like reflexes"...
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Friday, October 15, 2010
Monster's First Bath
Man! That cat is a BEAST!
I broke a sweat just trying to wrestle him down into the water... and he struggled the whole time. Thankfully he didn't hold much of a grudge about it.
I broke a sweat just trying to wrestle him down into the water... and he struggled the whole time. Thankfully he didn't hold much of a grudge about it.
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