Belding?

For those of you who haven't heard, I was hired this week as the Summer School Assistant Principal of Gladstone High School. So if you want to see me this summer, misbehave and get sent to my office. I'm one step closer to becoming Belding!

Buckeyes and Bruins leave Bookie reeling...

Well,

So long. It's been real. Between Braydon Brus' bday bash and watching our lil ones run their first race with their mommies today, Ben and I we're able to catch a bit of tourney action. And what looked like (if Memphis was to beat weird OSU and Kansas over UCLA) good chances to repeat for Jefe here....spells L-O-S-E-R. I will have to turn the crown over to either the senior citzens of the GL posse, the trash-talkin' SoCal Big Ten aplogetic, Lansing's own Martin Scorcese Ghettochild B Brus, or may be the Doctor "who gets 12 roses from a male patient with Schizophrenia this weekened" Newman....I dunno. Or could the "Cardinals" beat the Tigers again this year (aka Jinkins over GL posse). Don't leave out "Abs of steel" or Ms. Lena "first round winner" Gaines. Have I left any other possibilities? Oh yeah, could the "Cash money 4 leaf clover" take his Daddy to victory lane?

Enjoy it. And enjoy the winning cash...let me know how that feels...hint...hint. (Playin). Much love. Still have to get Tahoe tix. Anyone have any final suggestions for us. We're looking at Reno or Sactown...then doing some travelin and ending in LA. Mas Amor. Go Gators...i hope

On the same, yet more exciting note for me atleast, my former stundent, Adrianne McNally, played (ESPN2) in the Div II NCAA Championship today for Florida Gulf Coast Univ. but lost 61-45. She starts as a freshman! She had a great game though. Props for the Ptown Pirate!

Jeff

I hear the drummers drumming a birthday tune!

Happy Birthday, Bill!! Thanks for keeping this family laughing! We love you so much and hope you feel extra special on your big day. Grace also sends her Papa a BIG birthday hug!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! WE WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! HERE ARE TWO SHORT SONGS TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE YOUR BIG DAY!


Gabcast! DAD'S BIRTHDAY #0



Gabcast! DADS BIRTHDAY PART 2 #1

Round 2 Update and Reflections

Well the Sweet 16 is set, and the leaderboard is tight once again this year with Abigail once again proving that she was not a one hit wonder last year. Dad (W. Gaines) has taken the overall lead, but Abigail is right behind and perhaps has better picks when it comes down to the Final Four. The politically charged Obama08 (Jeff) is bringing it strong this year, but Wes, mom, and my self are right behind. Don't count out B. Brus, Norm, or last year's champ D. Jinkins either because they are definitely not out of the running.

Once again, the Big 10 has proved just how weak they really are. If Justin Cage makes his second free throw, OSU is at home too along with EVERY OTHER BIG 10 TEAM! I picked Texas A&M to be in the Final Four because of the above Acie Law IV who is the most clutch shooter I've seen since MJ put on the Carolina Blue. If that guy has a shot to win it inside of 2 minutes, he doesn't miss. Look for a couple of the #1 teams to not make it to Atlanta. I'm picking Tenn over OSU, and USC over NC. Can't wait till Thurs!

First Round Leaderboard Updates and Reflections

First off...happy St. Patrick's Day everyone. After the opening round of "madness", I think this year's tourney so far has been notable for it's lack of "madness." The top 20 teams have all advanced and those like me who caught George Mason fever after last year, and picked a bunch of 1st round upsets, find themselves towards the bottom of the leaderboard. The shining star so far is the G-dora girl herself, Abigail. Perhaps, what I love most about her kicking my butt so far is the fact that I walked into the house lastnight after grabbing dinner, only to find her on the couch, wrapped up in the USC-Arkansas game. This only happens once a year, this is March Madness! Abigail picked 29 of 32 games correctly (290 points), and her competitive nemesis, L. Gaines is nipping at her heels with 27 of 32 (270 points). There's a bit of a log jam for third with Bill, Norm and D. Jinkins coming in with 26 of 32 (260 points). My only claim to fame so far is picking VCU over Duke (I believe I hinted at this), and Winthrop over ND. That's it, and now I'll go back to 12th place with my cousin Anna. Steve has made his yearly walk to the basement, and Sarah Jane is right behind at this point, but don't worry, everything changes today as the point values go up, and everyone gets new life. Look for a big upset today. Can the Hooseier take down the Bruins? Doubt it. But I had a Spartan dream lastnight! Can Izzo prove once again that he's one of the best come the middle of March. Down with UNC!

STEVEN SHOOTER #18 LAMPI

Estas son las mañanitas, que cantaba el Rey David. Hoy por ser día de tu santo, te las cantamos a ti.

Despierta mi bien despierta mira que ya amaneció. Ya los pajaritos cantan. La luna ya se metió

Que linda está la mañana en que vengo a saludarte. Venimos todos con gusto y placer a felicitarte.

Ya viene amaneciendo. Ya la luz del día nos dio. Levántate de mañana. Mira que ya amaneció.

Alavio, Alavia, Ala vim vom va, Esteban, Esteban, rah! rah! rah!

Deal or no deal?

Well, despite what may have been in cases #36, #8, #16 and #22 - perhaps season tickets to Michigan home football and basketball games, full Michigan attire, meet and greet Chris Weber (childhood michigan hero), an offer to move to Michigan and live with my fav Aunt and Uncle...?

Joel has chosen to forgoe what may have been in those cases and says "deal" to the most wonderful, smart, beautiful, God-fearing woman he's ever met - Lauren Elizabeth Rossi

Deal or no deal? "Deal" (push the button)

This is how it went down - on a chilly night on March 10th at Niagara Falls, NY. The multicolored lights illuminating the rushing waters that supposedly release positive ions in the air that have been known to turn friends into lovers, couples into spouses and have even inspired some to go over the falls in a wooden barrel... Joel Dae Eisleben proposed to a miss Lauren Elizabeth Rossi on one knee, in the snow...

Mission accomplished! - Here is a checklist of victories that ultimately led to a successful proposal-

1. did not forget to bring the ring to buffalo

2. Survived a 6 hour drive to chicago with to be fiance

3. avoided confiscation of the ring at the airport by swallowing the ring and passing it once I arrived in Buffalo - (painful, and not sure if necessary)

4. earned the love of a large italian family with past connections to the mob (was not wacked by lewis the older brother)

5. did not drop the ring over the falls

6. did not drop myself over the falls

7. proposed on bended knee

8. told her I loved her and that I wanted to marry her

9. got an "ok..." - good enough for me

10. reported back to uncle bill with the results

Operation Wedding has commenced:

We are thinking August 4th or the 11th

Now the balls in your court Uncle Bill - How much do you really love your nephew???

... more than a sunny day in california?

No, Jeff, you can't tan in Tahoe

Hey, there, everyone!

Sorry to take your minds off the basketball watchamacallit for a moment, but I wanted to get the Tahoe ball rolling, so to speak. Wes and I found some pretty decently-priced tickets from Indy to San Fran during the week of the 6-12th, so we wanted to try to jump on them sometime in the next month before they skyrocket, if we can.

Have any of you Tahoe regulars nailed down or thought about which days during that week would be best (or how many days)? Have any Midwesterners bought tickets? Would weekend days be better for those who have to use vacation time? Just a few thoughts. Anybody know anything about this?

We're so excited to see everyone together in one place. This was a great idea. Are the LA pups coming? I'd like to see Brenda and Harley do some more wrestling.

P.S. be thinking about Cash these next few days. the poor guy's got a nasty cold that he can' t shake. we're hoping he starts looking better before we have to get him antibiotics. he's still got that killer smile, though.

P.S.S. looks like we've got two gaines-lampi birthdays in the next week!

YE 2007: KNOCK

Yo,

So don't forget to check out the previous post by Jake, but I told some of ya I would get some footage of YE 2007 Steve Lampi...the sequel...and a bit of lampi fun with the lil guys, Brad Brus rif, the classic "countdown" to the weekend ha! ...and the new Lampi....G-unit Grey Grey Midtown Playa....here's where to go:

Let the Madness Begin!

Yes, it's one of my favorite times of year again. Jim Nantz and Billy Packer are ready to go, Greg Gumble has given us the pairings and I'm ready to make my picks only to realize once again that it's really anyone's guess (e.g. George Mason). So, I'm calling on all who frequent this blog to get signed up by this Thursday and then ante up to the bookie (give us the skinny Jefe). This goes out to all Gaines-Lampi's and friends to make it even more interesting so feel free to send invites out. Also, please take a minute to read the special tribute on our Group Page when you get in. This year tourney challenge has a special dedication. Good luck!!

Click here to join the madness

ARE YOU READY FOR THE MADNESS???

WHAT IS UP!

Amidst the amorous anniversaries, insomianatic baby sympathies, artic freezes, and moments of birthday amnesia right.....emerges a favorite past time amongst the G-L posse. Steveo, you happy Bday on the 16th by the way. Lil prelim announcement not uncommon for me to pull out....

But.......it's MARCH MADNESS!!!!!! (I just heard Wes pump his fist, Sarah hearing the cash register Cha Ching, and Jacob slide on his Dukie sweater)
I'll make this short and sweet. Question/Answer Style pretending I know what you're thinking about our upcoming tournament between 2 highly competitive extended families.

First of all..

Q: Who is the bookie?
A: I am (period). Next question.

Q: Why for money?
A: Why not....Anyways I didn't get paid last time for winning...oh wait, my father-in-law cam through. So, I'm rolling over the 20 dollar winnings into this pot. We have about 16 or so immediate family players and at 2 bucks entry/person....that's oh yeah = well you can add. .....o yeah, and + 20 too from lat competition

Q: Can I play?
A: EVERBODY BETTER PARTICIPATE! Please! Invite close friends too (aka Brus') etc and inlaws!!!

Q: How do I play?
A: I'll blog the link soon (Sun or Mon) or email you (ESPN.go.com is the tourney manager)

Q: What should I do to get prepared?
A: You can go cold turkey into this and guess (good chance of winning prob) or do some research. During my first year of college at GVSU (isolated and depressed) I had some time to research....and won my floor's tourney. I dunno

Q: How do I pay up?
A: Tahoe we can pay up...or if the winner is not going....I guess just mail it to he/she???

Q: When does it start and end?
A: You can make your picks this Sunday night or Monday...but before games start Thursday....and track progress via any sports website. (CBS.com, espn.go.com)
It ends the first weekend in April I think

Q: Is Jeff this psycho?
A: Yes, but so is Wes....Jake...Steve....Ben.......whatever...you would to if you learned how to bet on horses...jk dogs...jk...I was close, but Steph put the brakes on her father and me in Fla.

Q: Are you in?
A: TBA


Awaiting SoTahoe and meeting Gracie when she turns 16,

Jeff

happy anniversary

just wanted to say happy anniversary to my loverly husband of three years!









(now, that's a man a girl can be proud of).

HAPPY 26th BIRTHDAY BECKY!

A look back at 25!

Grey is ready for tahoe

P1000739
Originally uploaded by stevelamps.

We can't wait to see you all in the mountain country of Lake tahoe. We need a break frm this wintery weather. I just got back from Willow Creek yesterday in Chicago and it took me 9 hours at 35 miles and hour in the snow. Summer couldn't come soon enough. Anyway, can't wait to see ya'll.
Steve/shea

TO THE 31 YEAR OLD

Just so you all know, because I know he wouldn't admit it, Jacob still keeps his figure by hitting the Gym at 5am, on top of having Grace and 2 jobs. Keep it up! Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Jake!

T-Bone
Originally uploaded by famousscientists.

Does anyone remember when El Jefe jumped the gun on Jake's birthday?:

"Before I roll, I gotta give shout out to my boy in G-Dora....HAPPY B-DAY...FELIZ CUMP papa Jake."
-Jefe
2/14

Happy Birthday Jake!

I think T-Bone said something like, 'I got more flavors than Baskin Robbins."

a reprieve from the cold

Hey y'all
here are some pics of the fam in Florida. I missed them so MUCH..never again, but what a great time it was when I got down there. Doctor G is such a trooper (and teaching me the art of betting on horses), mama G feedin' me Key Lime pies everyday, and alligators laying outside the veranda. Funtimes I'll be posting more often on Calebshotspot but for now...sorry jake, no pics of tan lines......yet!
Check out EDEN's double rat tail.....I'm game if you are, Wes! Andrew? etc?

Big Game this Saturday

As much as I love my son from the Fort, even though he has remained a Tigers fan, even though he has Maize and Blue going through his veins, I cannot fault him for not being a Lions fan: I just have to say, MSU by 7.

FAT TUESDAY

HAPPY FAT TUESDAY!!!

I miss watching Erik Smith eating paczkis.

Una Sonrisa Buena y barata

I love this article.

And it reminded me that my tooth is still broken and there's plenty of Dr. Gonzalezs' or Dr. Rodriguezs' who could fix me up for cheap.

(Link to Article)

Parenting- a fabled fairy tale delight of perfect babies sleeping all day long and leaving you with time to do whatever you want.

P1000698
Originally uploaded by stevelamps.

Hello all, thought I'd fill you on our recent encounter as parents. Everything is going well. Grey is what we like to call huskie at over 14lbs. He loves the food and seeing he isn't sleeping very well, he makes up for it by eating. Daddy is finding himself taking the late night shifts the past couple days to do some bonding, which can get pretty interesting. I have not perfected the concept of not moving a baby around just after they have eaten. It's almost a 100% chance he spits up on me everytime I hold him. I can't help it though, he is always wanting to move. His new thing is trying to sit up when in his car seat and getting frustrated because he is locked in. Oh yea, he's not sleeping because he has a condition I call permastuff. It is a constant stuffy nose with no relief during the day or night. It totally sucks. So shea and I went and bought 1300 square feet of wood flooring to get all allergenic crud out of the house. we will now change from scented soap to unscented and probably drop some cash for a vent cleaning. It's a good thing he's cute. He's upstairs as I write snorting away in his bed trying to fall asleep. Withiin the next 15 minutes he will cry uncontrolabley, Shea will eventually get him, and then he will want to eat. (Repeat steps one thru three ALL DAY LONG). We have now found the meaning why God says love is not self-seeking. Ladies and gents, for those of us with kids under 3, I will end with this, God bless and on those sleepless nights, know you are not alone. You have a friend in Midland. Grey is cute though. Love ya'll

Steve

Post-Evangelical??

Its been both interesting and exciting to watch the dramatic shifts that are occurring in the American church today. The term "evangelical" seems to be on its way out the door (article), and along with it some of the theology and ecclesiology that accompanies the label are being abandoned. Those who have left the ways of evangelicalism have often referred to themselves as "post-evangelical". What is post-evangelical? (Post-evangelical article) And here's a great take on the Emerging Movement (Emerging Article). Scot McKnight's blog Jesus Creed also has some great stuff on it. Anyways that's what I've been exploring lately. Any thoughts or observations?

L.I.F.T Service: Messiah Lutheran Church Feb 07

Hey Everyone,

I traded in the pc and got a MAC straight up no doubt. I told Wes I would blog this video last night. MAKE SURE you scroll down and catch a glimpse of CASH $ and the Fort FOLK in their snow day! AWESOME job WEs and Sarah!

Above is the link to the 9 min. video of last Sunday at Steve and Shea's church. Click on the tab and it will direct you to YOUTUBE. Hope you enjoy it. We had a blast! Everyone should come and visit the Church when in town!

(Sorry, for some reason my username was wrong and I couldn't blog it on site????) Wes, help?

Love,

Jeff

Snow Day

We survived the Blizzard of 2007. Pretty much the whole city was shut down, so here's how we spent our snow day. (Download Video) Miss you all.

Wes, Sarah, Cash

Honest Abe

"Now, he belongs to the ages"

On this Abraham Lincoln's 198th birthday we should remember with gratitude that we would not be living and enjoying this place called the United States of America had he not humbly served as our 16th President. Elected as a self-educated, relatively unknown outsider from Illinois, he was immediately thrust into solving the crisis of the seceding southern states. As a member of the newly formed Republican party, which was widely seen as an abolition movement, Lincoln's life was threatened even before he arrived in Washington. A plot to assassinate the newly elected President was revealed so that Lincoln had to pass through Baltimore in the middle of the night as to elude the conspirators. As president, Lincoln was largely unpopular, and often despised by both Radical and Conservative factions in his own party, as well as Southern sympathizers and Peace Democrats. However, Lincoln wisely guided the country through the bloody years of the Civil War by effectively ending slavery while at the same time preserving the Union, and for this reason he is seen by many as the greatest American President (though probably not Gramie). As I read about his life, I didn't expect the sadness, grief, and admiration for 'Ole Abe' that came with reading the last chapter. We all know how the story ends. (By the way I defer to our new expert on Lincoln's Assassination [wp gaines] and our resident historian [norm] on this subject) But as his Secretary of War Edward Stanton stated after Lincoln drew his last breath, "Now, he belongs to the ages", Lincoln's legacy, which still has a profound impact on our country today, belongs to all of us, and so today take time to honor and remember him. Happy Birthday Abe!!!!

A Candle in the Wind..

It seems to me she lived her life, like a candle in the wind..

With a heavy heart we mourn the loss of a friend. Anna Nicole, we will remember, we will miss you and always know you were close to our family.

let us all mourn the loss and dedicate this day to Anna!

Rest in Peace Sweet Anna.

U S A

Anyone watch US take down Mexico 2-0? I was flipping channels, saw the game on, and was hooked faster than Dad on an airplane movie. Anyways, the rivalry is heating up. After USAs 2nd goal the Mexico goalkeeper took a stab at a US player coming in to celebrate, and after the final whistle Mexico again refused to shake hands with the US players. It might just be a surge of patriotism but I'm getting tired of the "sore loser" antics of the Mexican team. U S A!

On another soccer note, any Beckham sightings out west? I just might be a star gazer this year and check him out when they play at Chicago, and I know one other star gazer livin' in East Lansing who'll be in.

Bears Down!

Turns out defense wins ballgames...the Colts defense that is! As for the Bears... they pulled a Teddy Ginn and saved their best play for first, and then unfortunately had to put the ball in the hands of bad, well, "terrible rex", and that unstoppable Bears defense just looked weak and tired as Colts ran it right up the middle time after time. Yes that is a nasty mullet hanging out of my Colts hat, and the Dallas Clark Jersey courtesy of Sarah's Dad (and the Wide Screen HD, WOW again). Parade time!!!!!! Go Colts!!!!!!!!!

P.S. David GET READY FOR SOME GREENS BABY!!!!!!!!!!

Hello from the Lampi's

IMG_3240
Originally uploaded by stevelamps.

Hope all is well with all of you. Greyson can't wait to meet you Cash and Gracie.

Gaines' Invade the SoCal Rugby Scene

On this hot and sunny Saturday afternoon, the Gaines' crew crammed in the Pontiac and headed west to catch our first rugby match starring #14, Andrew Gaines, back in the familiar orange and black of years gone by. I wish I could say we saw the LA Rebellion came out on top, but alas that was not the case as they sadly met defeat at the hands of the team from Pasadena. We all got familiar with the game of rugby, which was quite fascinating to watch in person. Andrew played well on the left wing and after the match we all met Assistant Coach Will, who was intrigued by the amount of mud Andrew's jersey had collected, and said, "That was one helluva game Andrew!" Below are some pixs of the game and aftermath. Anyone visiting SoCal should take in a match, as the LA Rebellion embody what right in the world of rubgy. Way to go Drew....keep defending that left flank!
After a nice tackle Andrew takes a spill off the pile

Andrew makes a diving attempt at a Pasadena forward

Andrew with what was called the largest cheering section of the day

Hoosiers!

March Madness is on its way!! Anyone watch the Hoosiers take down the #2 Badgers and snap that 17 game Bo Ryan winning streak? The Kelvin Sampson era is here and hoosiers are loving it, he's quickly gaining Knight-like status, 12-0 at home. All I gotta say is February 24 we're heading to the Izzone (Jeff Click here), round up your boys Sparty, its gonna be a fight.

Glendora Sunrise

This morning as Harley and I stepped onto the front porch for our 6:45am walk before school, we were met by the above picture of divine radiance. I stood amazed, so much so that I left Harley on the sidewalk and grabbed my Canon to capture the moment. We walked and I pondered the beauty of God and felt honored that I met this beauty again this morning. Within minutes, it was over. The sun rose and the clouds faded into a glorious winter day (if you can call high 60s winter), and I thought of how God is often seen in quick snapshots. Sudden unexpected moments where his glory collides with our humanity and we are left somewhat paralyzed. I got the same feeling after the walk when I went back inside and spent a few seconds watching my Gracie Glory sleep next to her mom. And somehow these two snapshots are interconnected.


This morning as Harley and I stepped onto the front porch for our 6:45am walk before school, we were met by the above picture of neighborly pranks and chaos. I stood and marvled at the how thorough a TP job was done on our "interesting"' neighbors. Last night as I went out to pull the car around back one of the boys yelled out at me from the darkness, "DID YOU CATCH A GLIMPSE OF THE FELLAS THAT DID THIS?" He and the other boys were getting a good laugh and plotting how they'll get them back. I almost said, "I want in!" So, now we only wonder how long the TP will stay in the trees. If it's still there next week I'll post an updated picture.

Blue Heaven

My ears are still ringing. That was the loudest, most exciting sporting event I've been to live. When Addai got in the endzone to take the lead the place went nuts, and yeah...I went nuts, almost hugged as many strangers as at the Tigers game. Anyways I've been diagnosed with Colts fever, for the first time in my life my team is in the Super Bowl, what a feeling. They're calling it the Midwest Matchup, and I'm dubbing Fort Wayne as Armageddon (read some good Fort Wayne journalism here); we're pretty much between Chicago and Indy, and I'd say we're 75% Colts 25% Bears. Anyways what that means is its game time!! Colts jacket on until the Super Bowl, and if any Bear fan talks trash to me they better be ready to throw down.

Lake Tahoe or Bust!!!

Well there seems to be quite a ground swell of support for this crazy Gaines-Lampi Tahoe endeavor later this year. I don't doubt that this could be an epic event with stories to just add to the lore. We did some checking and we have reserved the cabin for the week of August 6th-12th. We are also hoping to be able to secure the cabin next door as well if the owners aren't using it, which would give us more than enough room for all couples and kids. We'll have to talk and coordinate exactly what days everyone is able to come that week, but we went ahead and just reserved it for the whole week. Below you can see some more pixs of the last Gaines-Lampi adventure at Lake Tahoe. However, that week we only had Steve as the Lampi rep, Wes was being held shackled by United and Caleb, Eden, Gracie, Greyson, and Cash were but thoughts in the sovereign mind of God. I don't even think we knew Shea, Sara, or Becky at that time either. Well, I hope everyone's still on board, and please let everyone know if you find good airfares for the MW folk. The closest airport is Reno,NV unless you want to fly into SoCal and caravan with the SoCal gang. Let's me know if you're in for sure and we'll rally to get everyone there!

Determination

P1000639
Originally uploaded by stevelamps.

For any of you that have questioned Grey's readiness for the big time. I hope you now see by this picture he doesn't take crap from anyone. He and I have been talking about this David Beckham deal coming to America to play and he agrees that it's all publicity and Beckham probably won't even play out his contract. Grey is determined, passionate, and more or less ready to take on the world in this game of Football. As we speak, he is outside rolling around in the snow building up his abs. We'll see you all soon. Much love from the Lampi's via Midland, MI.

Snow

After a pretty mild winter last year, and an even warmer one (so far) this year, it was almost a relief to see snow falling as we headed north to the lower peninsula last night. We approached standstill traffic in Ann Arbor due to the "greazy" roads as Mom would say, and sure enough I got the call from Dad informing me that, remember, you can't see "black ice." Sitting there on highway 23, I thought about the snow. It has snowed every winter I can remember of my life so far, but it's funny how as the first flakes fall in November there is always this sense of shock like, "Where'd this stuff come from?" Like you've never seen this odd substance before in your life. And as we wake up and see the ground covered there is always a sense of excitement. It's almost a guarantee that someone at work will start announcing to everyone in a jolly voice, "look outside..." But then, just as soon as the snow comes, we start to grumble about it; like an unexpected guest we're happy to see but promptly want to kick out the door. I guess what I'm saying is I feel like snow gets mistreated and might have an inferiority complex, and so this is my tribute to snow:

"The silence of snow, thought the man sitting just behind the bus-driver. If this were the beginning of a poem, he would have called what he felt inside him `the silence of the snow'." Orhan Pamuk - Snow

First off, snow is very beautiful. Pamuk talks about the silence of snow, and there is something very calming about watching snow fall. Snow transforms what have become normal landscapes, a pine tree, an open field, a hilltop, into something more majestic. Snow beautifies everything it comes in contact with. If Jesus had lived in the Midwest he might have rather said, "you are the snow of the earth". Psalm 51 uses snow as a symbol of the purity that God bestows on us by his grace. In this way, snow is a sort of sacrament in that it is an outward sign reminding us of God's free gift to wash us white as snow. Snow forces us to slow down. It is basic Goulet physics that the colder it gets the slower particles move, and its the same with us, we drive slower, walk slower, laugh a little slower (to go Duritz on you) because of the snow. This, I believe, is why snow gets the cold shoulder (no pun intended) from so many--it has a way of limiting our activity. For children this is a good thing. There was nothing more exciting growing up as hearing "Brighton area schools are canceled" announced from Dad's clock radio in the bathroom as he smacked on the aftershave. And the phrase "snow day" immediately causes kids and teachers (Jeff...ring ring) everywhere to rejoice. This disturbance, however, tends to throw us adults off because appointments get canceled, flights get delayed, roads get closed, and, God forbid, we have to stay at home. My final affirmation of snow is that the very thing that aggravates us is good for us. Snow causes us to disrupt our schedules and rethink what is important. It is so easy to live just from task to task and get trapped in the cycle of business; snow makes us stop and do ordinary things like, sitting by a fire, reading a book, preparing a warm drink, cooking a meal, writing a letter, cleaning the house, or...watching snow fall. Bring it on Old Man Winter!!

Sacraments

For all you theology nerds, NT Wright spoke at Calvin College last weekend on the place of the sacraments in worship. Its really good, with a pretty interesting defense of infant baptism. Give it a listen.
Space, Time, Matter, and New Creation
Sacraments and New Creation

Macroni Grill, Diamonds and Ipods - Oh My

How much is the "uncle" offering to buy me out?

And I'm a bit curious to what's in case #36

Here's us on New Year's Day at the Macaroni Grill

This is Lauren Rossi and myself

Wes Gaines quote and counsel "never go to bed angry at each other ... that's the standard advice everyone will give you ... never worked for us"

Joel, I have but one question.

Lauren, deal or no deal?

The Covina Vineyard Gets a "Real" Church

It was Gramie a couple of years ago who after visiting the Vineyard said (in only the way Gramie could), "Jacob, when are you ever going to get a real church?" Alas, while I question my grandmother's ecclesiology, I must say that I now feel like I can call her and tell her the we finally have a "real" church. For those who haven't heard, you are now looking at the new location of the Covina Vineyard starting in early Feb. This church is owned by the Glendora Bretheren Church and is located 2 block due west of our house on Glendora Ave in the heart of downtown Glendora. The only one's closer than us are Ben and Becky who are about 200 yards away. So, we'll probably be undergoing a name change since we'll now be in Glendora. Until we come up with something we're happy with we'll just be The Vineyard (we're also accepting suggestions...I'm leaning towards 2:42 or 24/7...ha, ha) Anyhow, it's a cool story how we got from there to here in the past 2 months. It all started on a prayer walk with Harley back in late November, and an e-mail I sent their interim pastor. To make a long story, short we'll now be having a Sun morning service at 9am and then Sun evening at 6pm. We also are moving our office to the church and so will be centralized for the first time. The church is so un-Vineyard, but so cool. It was built in the late 1800s and seats about 200. All the windows are stained glass, they have a pipe organ, and even a parlor. And yes, our lives are now completely within a 3 mile radius between home, school, Homework House, church, Aunt Bec and Uncle Ben, and Grandma and Grandpa Aldrich. A little scary I know. Anyhow, God has been good to us and I look forward to the next phase of life on the vine.

The FINAL RESULTS: Gaines-Lampi Bowl Series 2006-2007

WOW....last night tops the cake for another shocking year of comebacks/"I wish i picked 'em" moments. Stephanie was the only one who legitamately picked Florida (I picked all of Shea's for her). Eventhough she was last place, she finished with the shocker! Way to go girl!
Here are the results

1. Jeff "the book" Lampi : 22-10
2. Stormin' "I hate UM" Lampi: 21-11
3. Sarah Jane "picks are insane, shows the boyz she gots game" Gaines (20-12)
4. Bronco Bill "My daughter-in-law owned me" Gaines (19-13)
4. Doc "i bet the spread" Georgiou (19-3)
5. Wes "UM is the lock" Gaines (18-14)
5. Steve "seven games in a row" Lampi (18-14) Started out a winner though
5. Jake "too many brownie frapps" Gaines (18-14)
6. Shea "killer FSU pick" Lampi (15-17)
7. Stephanie "I don't care...you've got issues Jeff" Lampi (14-18)

So here' the deal: Since I humbly won the 20 spot, I'm not going to accept it..........now
I'm going to roll over the dinero into the POT for the NCAA GAines-Lampi March Madness. Ok?
SO the stakes are higher, the wages phatter, and hopefully the participation greater. It's on like Caleb on Thomas, Cash on vinyl (records), Gracie on baby bjorn and kiddie frapps in a year or so, Greyson on martin marquis and fifa futbol, and Eden on anything edible (playin).

Out, and great comradery and Spirits!

Jefe

( yeah c-unit got that JEEP for xmas FROM his Yia Yia.................we took it back)

BY THE WAY (kind like we did for football) WHAT's YOUR PREDICTION FOR NCAA CHAMPION (bball) and SLEEPER or "George Mason") Leave it in comments

Mine :

Champion: UCLA

Sleeper: Nevada

bruised, tired and happy

i just got back from my first rugby game. it was awesome. i mean, we lost like 52-21, but it was one of the most fun experiences of my life. i am exhausted, my forearm is swollen quite a bit and both my knees are bloodied. i played the entire 80 minutes of the game, made some nice runs and tackles.

check it out: www.larebellion.org

we're pumped and bound to win our next game!

stay tuned...

New Year's 2007!

No, it's not snowing here. This is from last year, but I was feeling a bit bummed that we still haven't had much snow and the future for snow doesn't look promising (thank you, global warming).

I just wanted to check in to see if anyone made any new year's resolutions for this year. I told Wes mine was to "roll with the punches," meaning to adjust to life with a son and take on my new role as a mama as gracefully and smoothly as possible without getting stressed or frustrated (cross your fingers). I'd also like to keep writing and to pursue some freelance jobs, if possible.

That's all I can think of for now. Anyone else?

Deja-Blue

With my maze Michigan shirt sitting in a pile on the floor beside me, I must swing into the blog to give some post Rose Bowl reflections on a tragically marvelous day in the Arroyo Seco canyon. The day started spectacularly with the Gaines-Aldrich crew hitting Colorodo Blvd to take in the Rose Parade. It didn't disappoint. After the parade the ladies headed back home and the guys caught up with Drew and ate a late breakfast before walking down to the Rose Bowl. The whole scene is so surreal. Tailgate parties as far as the eye can see. The stadium before you set up against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mts. on a picture perfect day. I'd guess around 30,000 UM fans all clad in maze and blue. We took our seats right in the middle of this Midwest mob, and hailed to the Victors while settling in for what we hoped would be (for Benny and me) our first victory in 4 tries at the Rose Bowl. Alas, "Hail to the Victors" got quieter and quieter as the game progressed. It became apparent that we would once again spell LLoyd with two "L"s and that Ben and I would once again make the walk up our of Arroyo Seco shaking our heads and wondering what could have been, while Andrew and Stuart polished off a couple of what I heard people calling "ghetto" dogs in the parking lot (hot dogs, wrapped in bacon, smothered in grilled onions and peppers). Perhaps UM is just not as close to that upper tier (USC, Florida, OSU, Texas) as we all thought. LLoyd got outcoached yet again, making few if any adjustments at halftime, and the only player who seemed fired up on the UM sideline was Sultan Mescew, our punter. That's when you know you're in trouble!

So, it's the day after and we all nurse the right side of our faces due to sunburn, mom and dad board a sad plane back to Detroit, and Ben and I get to go back to school next week and hear it from our students. But, all in all, it was a wonderful, memorable day. It's always fun to bring a little of the Midwest into SoCal and always a little sad to see it go. A big thanks to dad for scoring the tixs and making it all possible. Happy New Year to all!

BOOTY CALL

Yo,
So I am not like some of you when you kick me between the legs when my Sparties get waxed, so I'll stop here. But I do have a responsibility as the Bookie (even though I am not paid for my services...injustice?) to report the G-L posse bowl series race. After yesterday's, it looks like there are only 3 peeps left in it for the dough. The rest of the posse is fighting for third, fourth ...etc.

Here's how it could go down:

Firs though! Sarah Jane (18-9)! With the Boise State call last night, she put herself tied with me for second as of now. But looks like she could come up short to Stormin Norman (19-8) who has her by one game and the same last pix as her. Even if she beats me (18-9), Norm will win by one game cause he leads right now. Beautiful finish though! Props.

Bill (16-11)...the long shot..unless the Broncos win????

I may come down to father and son.....seed and spawn....coach and bench warmer....old school and new.....senior and junior.....Notre Dame vs. LSU. If LSU loses...looks like I may be done. If SO. Miss loses to Ohio...I am toast and Norm will be getting drunk.jk and 20 bones.

Great fight and comradery. SJ put some men to shame...Steveo had us goin'...Stephanie, well I love ya so much.........and Bill, better luck in the NCAAs with MSU as your BANDWAGON pick. Jake see you Thursday!

Had a great last couple days with Greyson etc and lets just say the Lampis are talking about TAHOE 2007! Stay tuned????? Keep in touch...

Breakin' some legs if the winner doesn't get paid,

Jefe