resurrection sunday

magnolia flowers
Originally uploaded by wes gaines.

"Why do you look for the living among the dead?"
Easter and springtime remind us of the powerful gift of new life. This is a picture of my new favorite tree, the magnolia. As a blog assignment snap a photo of your favorite spring tree, flower, scene and post it!!

a very GOOD FRIDAY

The Lampis' took to the Spring outdoors, partook in fun and fellowship at the park, Caleb and Mekkena flirted all day (pics soon of the two lovebirds), as the padres feasted on Mexican. I thank God for our families. Cristos en estes! (Greek..Christ has risen...sp?)

The Countdown...

Went to the docs yesterday and he said the baby is very low, head down, locked in loaded. He also prepared us with material concerning pre-term labor (June 2nd due date). Who knows??? So excited about the little ones in the G-L posse. Abagail and Jake, luv your blogspot. So special. We also followed your tech-savy suggestion and uploaded one for our little man (men) if you want to check-it-out (WE GOTS TO STAY CONNECTED SOMEHOW MILES APART...I know we can't see eachother every other weekend, but the blog is better than nothing)

www.calebhotspot.blogspot.com

loVE Y'ALL,

Happy Easter
"Que viva Jesus Cristo"

Hosanna!

I've been thinking a lot lately, of what relevance the death and resurrection of Jesus has to us today, and what it means to me personally. Its Palm Sunday, and at church today our pastor Ron gave one of the best "sermons" I have heard lately. He challenged us to be on the Hosanna side of things in life. This really hit home with me. What he meant was, don't let the world which seems to be vortexing into chaos overcome you because God has overcome the world (John 16:33). He explained how the crowd that was rejoicing as Jesus came into the city quickly became the mob that shouted crucify him. What Palm Sunday really signifies is that "God's ways are not our own" His ways are higher than ours. Many expected Jesus to come and overthrow the occupying Roman Empire, but 5 days later Jesus ends up crucified on the cross. I cannot imagine the kind of despair at that moment that Jesus' followers must have felt, all of their hopes and expectations were seemingly crushed upon Jesus' "pre-mature" death. This dissapointment is so clear in the story of Emmaus road. Two of the disciples are leaving Jerusalem on what would have been the first Easter Sunday. Luke 24:17 says "They stood still, their faces downast" as the resurrected Jesus approaches them unrecognized. The story goes on that Jesus explains to them how he had to suffer and then enter into glory. And finally that evening as Jesus breaks bread they suddenly realize who they are with. And all the sudden their "hearts burned" within them. And this is what I have come to see this year. That God's ways are higher than mine, and out of great suffering and pain comes great joy and passion. I love that the act of Jesus breaking bread is how they recognized him! It sybolizes so much. That Jesus himself has become the bread of life for us, that he was committed to celebrating this life with his friends, and that he even taught his disciples to do the same (Acts 2:42). The last verse in Luke's gospel says it all "They stayed continually at the temple praising God" The resurrection has always required the response of celebration and awe, and I think the call to us today is the same: to stay on the Hosanna side of things in life. To tell and re-tell the incredible story of Jesus in this world, to live and celebrate life with our friends and family, and to pursue Christ with hearts that are burning for him!

I challenge you this week to reflect on what the cross and resurrection mean to you. What is God saying too you in this season? Share it with us.

Here is an excellent article by NT Wright on what the resurrection means in todays society, let me know what you think.

Have we forgotten so easily?

Lou Whitaker Louis Rodman Whitaker Jr. (Sweet Lou)
Bats Left, Throws Right Height 5' 11", Weight 160 lb.
Debut September 9, 1977 Final Game October 1, 1995 Born May 12, 1957 in Brooklyn, NY
Drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 5th round of the 1975 amateur draft. (All Transactions)


Let's take a trip down memory lane. Does anyone remember the year 1984?

I don't.
But one thing I do remember. Lou Whitaker (sweet Lou) (sweet ole lou as I once called him)
(sigh)

In this day of Video Ipods, Sliver cellphones, American Apparel fashions, Trader Joe's healthy organic foods ...
A day when we are quick to jump on the latest sports bandwagon: Indiana Hoosiers, LA Lakers, Sasha Cohen ... etc.
A day when we text message our votes for the next American Idol...
A day with the Gaines' boys and their wives scattered throughout the country.
Did we not learn from a brutal UCLA Bruins defeat.
Are we losing our roots?
Are we forgetting where we came from?
Are we compromising all that we stand for and the history that make us who we are?

I want to invite you for just one second ... to stop ... take a breath ... close your eyes ... and remember a day in 1984 when the Tigers made us proud of the motor city.

Oh the memories.
I plead with you! Lou pleads with you!
Remember younger days!!!

With the Tigers off to a 4-0 start.

Could this year be a reminder of those days?

Odds and Ends

Revenge or Judgement?? The Country Inn Suites where you all stayed during our wedding, caught on fire today. We hear that the owner when asked if he knew of anyone who might have a motive, replied, "yes...I do remember a group that was exceptionally rude and boisterous two years ago. They even used our breakfast room without renting it. What's more, one Lena Jo Gaines wrote a particulary scathing letter to us. They are capable of doing this!!" Watch out mom!

The Masters is on and the question is can I make it through Sunday without getting watery eyed. Well that all depends on who's putting on that green jacket, if Fred Couples pulls it off I'd say chances are medium to high! What I do know, is that I wont be placing bets with David J., lesson learned. Who are you pulling for? Dad, could you stand to see "lefty" pull another one off?? Here is a funny article on guys crying during sports (article)

This week Fredrick Buechner was interviewed on the radio. Buechner is a minister/writer and his books are incredible. He writes a lot about preaching and his latest book is a collection of his sermons. In the interview he talks about the desperate need for pastors to "tell the truth" from the pulpit, that is be real, authentic and speak to people's real needs. One of the callers asked what advice he'd give to someone who wants to preach and he responded, "speak with your own voice"...awesome (listen) If you're interested in Buechner's writing, start with "Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy, Fairy Tale "

Here is one more track from the album (download)
Adios

One shining Moment!!

You gotta love Noah!! Props to David for winning the pool and once again denying either a Gaines or a Lampi from winning our own Tourney Challenge. In light of the hottly debated immigration reforms I think we ought to reconsider for next year who is allowed in our bracket! And did Joel finally elude having to explain the mysterious J. Gleason entry for good!
Better Luck Next Year guys. Here are my predictions, lock em up!

Final Four: UNC, LSU, Ohio State, Memphis (if everyone stays)

Indiana will have a rough first year under Sampson, but watch out in two years when he starts getting those top Hoosier recruits back to Bloomington (We could've had Sean May, Josh McRoberts, and Greg Oden all playing next year)

Ohio State will win the Big Ten and might win it all, watch out for Greg Oden and Mike Connely out of Indy.

The Stache will move on to the NBA high first round pick and be a Dirk-like player.
Reddick will go low 1st round to 2nd round and phase out after 3 Hurley-like seasons.

Snazzy Spanish Tee

Oye everyone! A big thank you to the very talented sarah jane for hooking my kids up at Pinckney with these culturally-empowering, might I add AMERICAN APPAREL (Ange) made tee! They are the latest buzz at school. Some kids think the word "vaca" is Spanish for "vodka". Huh? It really means "cow" and the tee is a spin off the "got milk" add (their original idea, not mine), but ours is "got cow". Over the holidays my kids raised $ and sent 3 cows overseas through Heifer International. Hence the back of the shirt, "the Vaca project". Anyways, this is the first time sarah has seen them. GREAT WORK. .......I have extras, anyone....???

si se puede

Here is a pic from the Fort Wayne protest of the new immigration bill. I'm holding the "Stop Xenophobia" sign.

A Spring Hello for Caleb!

Hey everybody,

Just wanted to post some recent pics (Florida mid-winter break) since we NOW can import pics onto our computer (it was broken and a neighbor fixed it!) Love ya'll. Caleb, Jeff and Steph xoxoxoxoxo

Legalize LA

, originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

Ronald Reagan said that "Every immigrant makes America more American.", which I believe to be entirely true. Especially living in a city and working in a company that is comprised greatly of immigrants. However, the Sensenbrenner-King Bill (H.R. 4437) may drastically change the conditions that make our country so free and may strip Americans and Non-americans alike of their pursuit of liberty and justice.

The bill, if passed would would criminalize illegal immigration and even those who aid illegal immigrants.

Some of the provisions:

-Requires up to 700 miles (1100 km) of fence along the US-Mexican border at points with the highest number of immigrant deaths.

-Requires the federal government to take custody of illegal aliens detained by local authorities. This would end the practice of "catch and release", where federal officials sometimes instruct local law enforcement to release detained illegal aliens because resources to prosecute them are not available.

-Mandates employers to verify workers' legal status through electronic means, phased in over several years. Also requires reports to be sent to Congress one and two years after implementation to ensure that it is being used.

-All illegals before deported must pay a fine of $15,000 to the state in which they were apprehended

-All children born to illegal immigrants in the United States will become wards of the state.

-Housing of illegals will be considered a felony and subject to no less than three years in prison.

Even liberal Democrats are dusting off their 'WWJD?' bracelets and citing the Bible to defend 'the other'.

To me, this bill reads very reactionary, unjust, and unprogressive.

I urge you to read more about it. To seek understanding. And to do what feels right to you.

thank you, weatherman

today is such a nice spring day here in the fort.
the sun is shining bright.
it's seventy degrees outside.
wes even got a good headstart on his farmer's tan when we sat out back for lunch in our ugly 1970's lawn furniture. i'm sure our neighbors love having to look at it all summer (the furniture, not the tan).
i got a quick chance to snap the pups in action--june's listening to the neighbor on the other side of the fence to see if he'll say anything to her, and petey's trying to see if he can eat, lick, or take advantage of the shiny silver camera in my hand. what can we say, he's got a thing for bling.

Show-Me the Gaines-Lampi Posse Tourney Update!

The Show-Me State
Originally uploaded by jacobgaines.

I hope you all have been watching March Madness because there has been many more than, "One Shining Momement" in this year's tourney. I can't remember a year when there's been more down to the wire buzzer beaters and overtimes in game after game. Sarah, did Wes tear up when Gonzaga pulled the biggest joke of the tourney, leaving Adam Morisson weeping at half court. I got misty watching Coach K walk off the court with a red-eyed J.J. Redick.

As far as the Gaines-Lampi Posse pool, it appears that for the second straight year, the spoils will go to someone other than a Gaines or Lampi. I've checked the brackets and congrats go out to David Jinkins (Joel's bro-in-law) who has already mathematically clinched this year's title. With a UCLA win (and I think I told everyone to watch out for the Bruins) Abigail and Joel will tie for second. Props to my wife for bringing home the high score amongst the ladies. So, I guess this was the year of the "Show-Me State". Tough year for the Michigan crew. Besides dad's bracket there was only disappointment. Jeff, what happened? This was definitely not the year of the Spartan? Anyhow, I'm looking forward to a great Final Four weekend. Give me your predictions... is it Big Baby? will Ben Howland finally prove he's one the best in country? the young Gators? or will Cinderella keep on dancing? My pick... U-C-L-A (defensive wins ballgames!)

...and he kicked him...

, originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

This is one of the cutest/funniest internet videos I've seen in a while. Let me know if this works, watch it here:

http://s4.yousendit.com/d.aspx?
id=0HXZMVGZRYBO91X2W70OFRXDLL

blog maintenance

I've been messing with the look of the blog, let me know what you think. Also, Blogger tends to look weird when using Internet Explorer. Try using Firefox (download) instead, it is a way better browser than IE. Also enjoy this joel warhol pic--

(Note: Mom, Dad, Norm, and Debbie, disregard this message, help is coming)

Been a while

IMG_7948[1]
Originally uploaded by stevelamps.

Hey everyone, it's been about 2 months since my last blog. I get the BMUVP (Blogs most un-valuable player) award for the year. Anyway, all is well in the pleasant mountain country. I have a new job in Midland at a church as a worship leader/ working with High Schoolers. The pastor is so nice. Shea and I are very excited. I got to babysit my niece yesterday. The face tells you that she is sweet, but will find her way into manipulating you to get her way at times. Unca gives in a lot. OOOPS. I also got to see caleb this week and that boy has got some game. He's going to be an athlete. jeff, nows the time to get him in some physical training classes and out on the field or court atleast 3 hours a day if you want to have a secure retirement becasue of him. After all as Biggie said, "It's all about the benjamins baby." Beware though, "Mo money, mo problems." I think Solomon said that one or was it David, I could be wrong either way. Shea is doing well in her Counseling courses and is doing great at DU. Mexico was a lot of fun as always. We can't wait to go back. Miss you all. Have a great week

one more

Petey has been real cocky ever since we got back from Nashville, because he got to stay in the Philo Farnsworth (television inventor) house. He keeps questioning everything we tell him. Whatever...
Here is one more rough track for you to listen to. Stand Amazed

GET YOUR GREEK ON!

Well, ever since I abandoned my Finnish roots (and whatever heritage came from my mom) and embraced my BIG FAT GREEK heritage, I have never been the same. Here's to marrying that special greek goddess and her crazy family! Check out this link if you have no idea what's going on and get the second best food on the earth (behind carne asada burritos + other mex grub) this weekend. LINK

Washington Post article

We read this article in my Controversy in America class today. It's about a group of homosexual college-age students (some Christians, some not) who went on a nation-wide tour of various college campuses (including APU!) to meet students/faculty, etc. and open discussion about their differences/opinions on homosexuality. They coordinated with these Christian campuses, and it seems like everyone gained a lot by opening up to the opportunity to dialogue in a safe/intentional environment.

Regardless of our views on this issue, I thought it was a great read and was encouraging to see Christian campuses doing something other than gay-bashing. Plus, there's a quote from the APU dean of students!

Recording studio ramblings (and a sample)

Just thought you might all like to see what Wes got up to this weekend in Nashville. He and our friend Aaron finished vocals on 7 songs, and they're sounding great so far. here is a sneak peak at a rough mix: Great is the Lord

Ritters or DQ, Which was it?

On this my 55th year of life, I am honored and pleased to have family and friends like I have. Your mom, mother-in-law, aunt and to some friend, investigated which kind of B'day cake to get me. Ritters or DQ. I know that many of you are in the March madness basketball ESPN contest, so I will not set up a "Ritters or DQ Cake" contest to see which one my faithful wife got me. There is only one day a year I can have two slices of this yet to be announced cake - other than sneaking into the kitchen for a second slice when she goes downstairs to get on the computer. Been caught more times than I would like to admit. She has a radar detector to know when I go into the kitchen like you would not believe.

Anyway, DQ won out over Ritters. As long as there is ice cream in the cake, I do not care where it comes from. Thank you all (Joel, I am waiting for your call).

Happy 55th Dad!

Happy 55th Dad!
Originally uploaded by jacobgaines.

If my memory serves me right, you should now be able to hit up the old foggies at Huron Meadows for the Senior Citizen Discount! So there are some benefit to this birthday.

Some of my best early memories of dad are getting my hair combed (parted down the middle)after a bath. Long walks to the pitchers mound to tell a son to stop aiming it. Waking up to WJR cranked up louder than his hair dryer, and knowing I had at least 15 more minutes to sleep. Gathering sticks and using my finger to hold the knot after a chainsaw afternoon. Pushing a shovel alongside dad after the first snowfall, etc. etc. There are just a few that came to mind.

I was in Mexico this weekend at Colina de Luz and was reminded again of dad's vision to all build a house for a Mexican family someday together as a family. It's that kind of heart that I believe he's passed on to his sons, and for that I am very greatful. How about a Gaines-Lampi Mexican homebuilding project with ninos and all by dad's 60th? Anyhow, happy birthday dad. We all love you very much!

Oh Happy Day!!

it is 2:00 AM, after fighting off sleep and almost hitting a coyote, we rolled back into town deliriously, and now realizing what day it has become...we'll be the first to wish our pops a Happy Day!! May all your wildest dreams come true Dad! We love you for your generous heart, godly wisdom, and most of all, for passing your unique sense of humor down to your sons. (Sarah is especially glad for that). Much love from the fort of wayne. Once again we couldn't resist with that picture...another year and still no explanation.

Andy 500

Andy 500, originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

This is a lot of pressure being the 500th blog. It's been a lot of fun blogging and reading everybody else's posts. Here-here for the gaines-lampi blog.
Cheers to another 500 posts!

VP Sends it to OT

Check out this story about our American Apparel basketball team.

story

J’adore la neige!

Ranch trip, originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

This week-end Louise and I made some mix CD's, packed up her car, and turned our backs from Los Angeles. Our destination: the Sonoma Coast, to meet up with long time pal and Heath Ledger lookalike, Jay Ritchey. Living in the city can be a bit overwhelming and tiring so a week-end like this was very much needed.

We drove up in the night, met Jay in Palo Alto and continued our drive further up north in the morning. The forecast called for rain but the weather was beautiful. We stopped in Sausalito for coffee, we continued to drive, we got a little car sick and stopped, and then continued to drive.

Finally we got to Jay's ranch at about 3:00 on Saturday. It was cool, a little wet from the previous weeks rains, so our plans to mud around in his 4x4 were spoiled. Instead we went on a Jacob'esque hike all around Jay's 1000 + acre ranch. It started to rain, which qickly turned to hail, which quickly turned to snow. The day immediately brightened! By the time we made it back to the house it was snowing big fat Michigan (or Quebec) type snow flakes. Beautiful! We got back to the house, warmed up, made dinner, and watched 'Touching the Void' and called it a night.

The next morning we woke up, went down to the beach, saw a seal, and drove back to Palo Alto. Jay's mom took us out to an amazing Vietnamese dinner. And then it was back to LA for Louise and I. Louise took constant naps and I drove through the night.

Now, back in LA, refreshed. "C’était une fin de semaine palpitante." as Louise would say.

Thanks Jake!!!

Just want to thank Jake for fixing my mistakes with the tourney invitation. You'all should get invites from him. He has set up everything, and now we can play. Gracias Jake and disregard my e-mails/previous blogs. You the man. There's just another reason we call our big papa "J.J" Gaines. I'll forward the invite to the others who don't see our blogspot. So Wes, Jake took care of it. Thanks.

jefe

ARE YOU READY

Syracuse is in! Are you?
Hey, guys and girls, we have like 15 peeps or so in our little contest. Tonite the brackets come out. Here are some last Reminders from your helpful bookie:

1. Have you gone to the website on espn.go.com?
2. Have you created an account (password/username) to join GAINES-LAMPI POSSE?
3. Have you even checked your e-mail for the invite?
4. Have you reminded your spouse or sign. other?
5. Besides bragging right, does anyone have a cool prize for the winner, 2nd and third????

I have opened it up to some peeps who have connections, so don't be surprised (Like our boy, B daddy who has the strongest sperm in the universe !)

LOVE all around,

jefe

P.S. If anyone has trouble, let me know, cause I am not even sure if I did it right. Wes, if the group is not available, can you take over for me and help? Gras

VROOOOM!!!

Here's Sarah's new ride!! Toyota Camry Wagon!!
(Get down girl, go 'head get down)

THERE'S STILL TIME...

Thanks for the prompt responses and e-mails; looks like there may be more hype this year than last. Make sure your spouses get the hook up too. You won't get an invite till next Monday, when the brackets come out. My early predicition....This could be the year of the FEMALES...
(JOEL - read my comment in my first post, ok? ) LOL everyone. Caleb sends his love from coast to coast, farm to beach, apple to carne asada, pale to sun burned (brazen) skin, parka to speedo, "hi y'all to "que onda guey".

Jefe

IT'S TOURNEY TIME BABY!!!

Well, thought we all could take a step back from our schedules and rekindle a little perennial comradery (spelling?). We all have a lot going down; I mean with the new AMAZING news of J & A and their surprise 9 months away!!! Abagial could take a break from her thesis, Jake could may be put the IPOD shuffle down for a moment, Andrew may want to take a reprieve from his A2 invetions, B& B could put their lucrative realstate biz aside of a moment, sarah j could turn her poetry into NCAA verse, wes may want to stop signing autographs for a minute, Shea could pull Steve away from that Baja California photo shoot, my parents could surf the internet for the first time, and Lena could bring Bill back to American soil for a day...etc etc etc. Heres the downlow: SEND ME YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESSES AND I WILL INVITE YOU TO THE NCAA BRACKET BUSTER TOURNEY CHALLENGE. THIS IS AN ALL PLAY, ALL SKATE or SHALL I SAY ALL DANCE! Adios,,gots to teach the masses...

da plane, da plane . . .

it's official. after a pep talk from jake and ab we bought our tickets for may 11-14 . . . see you in l.a.

Click here for special birthday message . . .

happy happy birthday

I know it's difficult, Becky, but I wanted this photo to remind us of all the hard times we've been through. Like a rock you held us all together, told us not to fall apart.

. . . but seriously, happy birthday, becky! you're a great, funny, lovely sister-in-law and friend. hope you have a fabulous birthday today. wish we could be there with you.

Kickin' Off the B-day Blessings!!!

Seeing that it's now officially Rebecca's birthday in the Eastern Standard Blogging Time Zone, we thought we'd get the birthday blogs a rollin' from the West Coast. Wishing a happy quarter century to a great sister-in-law, program and administrative coordinator, fellow G-dora neighbor, and friend. We are ever blessed by who you are and continue to become. You amaze us with your talent, cleverness, and charm (after all...you were the class clown). Now go rent a car and forget the underage fee! We love you Rebecca!

-Jacob and Abigail

ONE (Speaking of videos...)

Hey y'all. just got this "ONE" on e-mail. Check it out. WOW.

http://www.one.org/dia/organizationsONE/one/content.jsp?content_KEY=9

Hollywood comin through.....Watch what you say, Tom!

A Year of Blogging

The family blog has now passed the one year mark, and there were over 480 posts in the first year, which is pretty amazing. Hopefully it has served its purpose, to keep us all in touch with eachother and allow us to share our thoughts, pictures, etc. Anyways, as usual, here are a few things I think you should check out:

Here are some pics from the Heartland, Indiana has the best sunsets in my opinion...
Colina is second

I've been reading Wendell Berry's latest essays "The Way of Ignorance". Wendell Berry is one of my few heros. I think he acts as a modern day "Old Testament prophet" like Amos or Isaiah who few hear and even fewer listen to, a "voice crying in the wilderness". Alright you get the point I like Wendell Berry. Here is an essay to download (The Burden of the Gospels) while reading this for the first time I actually got the chills. Alright, enough...

Here is an amazing story you HAVE to watch this video
it brought me to tears!!

Keep Blogging...

Oh Happy Day!

Just pausing to remember thirty years ago this morning, a cold morning in Lisle, Illinois.
It was time- time for our first child to be born. But before the time of ultra-sounds, so we did not know what to expect. We arrived at the hospital at 7:30 a.m. and a short hour and a half later, we heard the wonderful words (those same wonderful words that we would hear three more times), "It's a boy" We thanked God then for a beautiful, healthy, baby boy. We continue to thank Him now for His faithfulness and goodness toward you. Happy 30th jacob! Love you, Mom

Happy B-day Again Jake!

Hey Cub,

Just sitting and mixin' with my boy Jeremy Livingston in Panera and he told me about a J.J Redick article. READ it. Alright, so I'll give him some props. Peace bro'....have a nice bike ride.
(BTW, remember J's bro Nick Livingston? He is a frosh on Varsity (not Whitmore) and he averages a J.Jesque # 25.5 pts./game.) Sounds like the eldest gaines boy back in the early 90s.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2339265

I can relax

Fridays are always so good for kicking it, chillaxin', taking it easy, being cheesy, and blogging. Just got back from lunch; tuna sandwich and a sip of Louise's mango juice. Things here at work are straight easy a.) because my boss is out of town, b.) because it's Friday.

The Japanese are hilarious, wonderful, silly. Check this out:

I just got a new album called 'Loose Fur'. Part Wilco, part Jim O'Rourke. Check it out Wes and Sarah:

The pictures above are from the roof of the American Apparel building downtown. Patrick and I were sneaking around and looking for a good place to put the new American Apparel Radio Station (coming soon!).

I'm getting pumped for a big bike ride with Jake tomorrow, early in the mañana. 40 something miles? Azusa to the beach!

OK, happy Friday everyone!

Andy

cut the MU-llet!

Just thought you all would want to know that our boy wes has gone the dirty route . . . yes that is the beginnings of what can only be described as a rat-tail/mullet combo. And it's not one of those "growing a moustache to be funny" kinds of things but more like the "don't feel like getting a hair cut" thing. Pray for me, guys.

Vineyard Winter Youth Retreat

Lake Arrowhead in Winter
Originally uploaded by jacobgaines.

I've been out of the blogging loop for awhile. On sabattical if you wish due to a full plate the past few weeks. Part of that plate was emptied this weekend as Abigial and I were a part of our youth retreat up in Lake Arrowhead (elev. 5,600ft).

The rest of the SoCal clan can vouch for the fact that we have had about zero percipitation this year. That all changed about 6:00pm Friday night which happened to be the exact time our caravan of 10 packed cars with 43 teens and youth staff got to the base of the San Bernadino Mountains. No sooner had we begun our ascent up to camp than the heavens opened up and began to dumb rain, then thick fog at about 3,000ft, then a blizzard at 4,000ft. We meandered up the steep hills, slipping and sliding until we mirculously made it to the camp (4 hours later).

It snowed all weekend, which the kids just loved (typical SoCal youth...only a few brought gloves and boots). The retreat went great and we all had a blast. Abigail led another amazing time with all the girls, and I spoke at the main sessions. We ended up taking quite a few non-Christian friends of kids in our group, which was cool because some of them made commitments to Christ!

Yesterday, we were scheduled to leave at 2:00pm, but awoke to about another foot of snow overnight. All of our cars were buried and we spent the morning digging them out and putting chains on some of the cars. We were saved by a snow plow at noon, and were able to head down the mountain on time. An hour later we were in the warm, sun soaked valley below giving the kids back to their parents. And now I sit looking at the snow capped mountains in the distance, quite thankful to have had our snow fix for the year. Now on to Colina next month with twenty-one 8th graders from FCS.

And all of this is distracting me from the reality of turning 30 in a week. I will be in the gym every night this week and the SoCal Gaines boys will be riding 30 miles next weekend (from Azuas to the Beach). And I will challenge any Lampi or Gaines guy in the mile run, on the court, or on the weight bench (ok, Steve excluded in everything, and Ben excluded on the bench). 6 days and counting!

Happy Birthday Jacob

Gosh! I can't believe you are going to be 30. Your other mom and dad want to wish you a very special happy birthday. Jeff and Steve could not have asked for a better bigger brother to look up to. Thanks for all that you did helping to influence them as they went through the teen and early twenty years. Have fun on your DAY. God Bless Norm and Debbie

Home, sweet home

Home
Originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

Finally, after what seems like years without having a solid home (9 different places in 2 years), I have found a place to live. Last night after about an hour of negotian, we signed a lease on a new house in Echo Park. I'm the son of a Business man. I'll be moving in on March 1 and I'm in need of many things to make this house a home. Andy is currently accpeting donations of dishes, furniture, a bed, and cash for my increased price of rent.

The house includes amenities like this:

-1.67KW 6-month-old state of the art SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM.
-Wireless, Highest speed available DSL throughout the house. (so I don't have to sit on Jacob's porch at night)
-Solar powered whole house fan for keeping the house cool during the days (seperate from main solar system).
-Satelite T.V. with HBO, Showtime, and over 120 channels
-Washer and dryer
-New Hardwood and Tile floors
-Large 40's designer brick patio/yard
-View of downtown Los Angeles

The address is 1425 Snd St., Los Angeles, CA if you want to check it out on google maps or follow this link

Ok, I can't wait to show you all my new place. Come over anytime. And seriously, I don't have anything so if you have something you want to give me or send me, just let me know.

He's Gotta Go! (prophetically He's Gone)

I guess I've become a true Hoosiers fan now, after dropping 6 of the last seven, not being able to win A Big Ten Game on the road, and in jeopardy of missing the Big Dance again with one of the most talented teams in years...Davis has to go! (Nice Guy/wrong job)

Look for Davis to step down after this year and Steve Alford to get the job.

Alright enough, Happy Birthday Jake!

I'm losing it

My apologies Jake for setting you a fire on 30 early. I seriously have lost reality. Pray for me (Matt Kurtz). Anyway, better than belated. What day is it anyway??? Keep the wishes in the back pocket, Cubby.

Feliz dia de San Valentin todo Y CUMPLEANOS A JAKE!

Well,

I have to wish everyone a happy Hallmark Lover's day. This sucks. Alone. J/K I will heading to Fort Meyers area tomorrow nite to see the Mrs. and my little Train conductor who is obsessed with Thomas. Finally.

Before I roll, I gotta give shout out to my boy in G-Dora....HAPPY B-DAY...FELIZ CUMP papa Jake. You are my strength when I am weak..etc etc etc. No in all seriousness, despite your passion to be like Mike, I mean J.J. Redneck, you are the big bro we all look up to. I have said it before and I will "beat the dead horse", you're the guy I want Caleb and rest of sibs to grow up like (no cheese intended...WHAT WHAT YOU SAY the rest of you who are saying I'm pulling the Norm card.....notice that I didn't mention a thing out death). Seriously, you are 30, and that's old and I got some ROGAINE COMING WEST FOR YOU. Cheers to our spiritual leader and bandwagon driver this March who has taken a high stick to the temple and survived, has swam skins in Lake Greyson with Mike Reynolds, denied a smoke on recess from Shannon Brown, rubbed shoulders with M Redman, Tangled with all of us boys, batted clean-up when Micah got put on the Injured List, told me about Jesus when Wes wouldn't, forgave Kobe when he shed his first tear, covered up for the boys during the prank radio station phone call gigs, confronted Louie Weber after his internet accusation on a nice middle school boy (Hmmmm????), didn't lose grip after McFadden's eye-to-eye challenge to hit the H2O with Wesser (when he got b-tized at age 3), and so on and so on and so on.... save some for the rest of the posse to write

Feel Free to use this forum for a threaded discussion (learned that one at MSU) to honor our CUB and his 30th.

BTW, CHeers to Wes and Sarh for a fab weekend and for making this time abit easier for me. Although "the book" not so much with the wife being gone (Jk). Sarah the Librarian was a natural in her domain. I dropped an author's name and within 3 seconds I had every book she wrote plus cliftnotes. Phenomenal. Also, to Wes and his attempt to burn my bro's first CD. Man, that's low bro' but thanks for covering for din din. Thai food was great, your wife is a beauty (WHAT IT!), I got a hickie from both Junie and psycho Petey for a souvenir, and almost a heartattack on the way home. Luv the Fort, we'll be down with the fam again soon. Promise. Da na na na...whatever happened to the promise you made.....da na na na...

Love today and alwayz,

Jeff

Amigos..

One Tank of Gas - $35
Dinner at Thai Restaurant - $40
Coffee to stay awake - $10
Laughing with your best friend - PRICELESS

April 16 to New Orleans

April 16-22 mom and dad Gaines, mom and dad Lampi are heading to Gretna, LA. to participate in the Samritan Purse's clean up etc. From seeing where Grtena is located, this looks like one of the hardest hit areas from the levee breaking. Anyone with free time is welcome to join us.

Side note to Joel: I need some "free" tax advice, please call me or send me you e-mail address.

Lonely...oh so lonely......ain't got nobody...to call my own

Hey everyone. This is day 6 w/out my beloved wife, c-unit and bun in the oven. They are spending "quality time" with papaou and yia yia in Fla. I have been busting myself with the MA program here and staying busy but it's been so hard without my fam! I will be joining them next Wednesday for about 6 days or so, then heading back to th EL. But before that, I will engage the rockerboy and his emily dickninson wifie in the Fort on Saturday. Here are some pics of my two favs (plus Kennedy-steph's friend's little tyke) at the park in Bonita Springs. Must be nice. Chao

God's Politics

jim_wallis
Originally uploaded by andrewgaines.

Jim Wallis is one of my favorite authors, speakers, and Christian leaders. He founded the Sojourners Movement in DC and he wrote the books, 'The Soul of Politics' and 'God's Politics'. Anyways, he spoke at APU chapel this morning. Watch it online, at least watch the beginning to see Tim Hooten's impecable style.

http://www.apu.edu/chapel/calendar/spring/

Nashville Nights

Here are some pics from my weekend in Nashville. The album is off to a great start (again). It was an unbelievable opportunity to be able to record at Oxford Sound. We're expecting a spring release and summer tour? Maybe not the tour.

Here are the latest videos I can't stop watching:

Office Linebacker
Young Chuck Norris


Later --

Stuart McKunik

I just wanted to post the Gaines' boys a quick message to ask to pray for our family's former neighbors and friends the McKunik family who lived on School Street with us growing up. Especially to Jacob, Spencer's friend and teamate in HS; Stuart (a year younger than me) took his life last Sunday for reasons unknown. As you may know, Spencer and Stuart had lost their father early during the teen years and NOW, Spencer and his mother could really use our prayers in this horrible time. I will be attending the funeral on this Thursday and will send all of our condolences. He was a great friend growing up, had an adventurous spirit and a special bond with his big brother who is a immpecable person. God's blessings and comfort on his family.

Jeff

Sneak Preview. . .

Hey, if you guys want to hear some of Wes's studio progress, you can! Ben and Wes set up a podcast of the drum recording sessions today and have been uploading short tracks of ben's brother playing drums to the guitar "scratch tracks" (not the guitar tracks that will be used on album). hearing drums and guitar may not be that exciting, but seeing Wes's album progressing is!

1. If you don't already have it, download itunes (free for mac and windows)

2. On the itunes toolbar go to "advanced">"subscribe to podcast"

3. copy and paste this into the box that pops up: http://www.hccfw.com/feeds/nashville.xml

voila!
bon appetite.

the early bird. . .

Wes was up bright and early before 6 this morning, and is now on his way to Nashville for round two of his recording battle (they decided to completely start over). Let's pray and cross our fingers that this weekend is majorly productive, that the process goes smoothly, and that i don't get kidnapped while i'm sleeping alone.

on a side note, now that all wes's co-workers know he's going to record in nashville they think he's this big rock star. yesterday they were inquiring about it and someone said, "You know, Amy Grant played worship music and she busted out onto the pop charts!" So Wes has just been telling them, "yeah, i'm kind of like amy grant."

I think we're out of chips

"Mom, I think where out of chips"
"Need a new bag, ASAP!"
-Roger