God doesn't love me because I'm a pastor. He doesn't love a person more if they go to church or read their Bible. God doesn't love us any more if we do things for Him. God doesn't love you because of anything you do.
God loves us like a good parent loves their kids. Whether we succeed or fail God's love doesn't change. I think some people think that if they just do something for God He will love them more. Sure following God has it's rewards. Obeying God protects us from the consequences of poor choices, but it doesn't make God love us more.
So why go to church or read your Bible? Why should we do anything for God if it doesn't change the degree to which He loves us? I believe that serving, loving, and getting to know God has little to do with God and a lot to do with us. You see loving God doesn't change God's perspective of us it changes our perspective of Him.
To Be Continued...
Saturday, February 28, 2009
God doesn't love you Part Two
God doesn't love you anymore if you do something for Him, and He doesn't love you any less if you don't. I've been extremely blessed because of my relationship with God. He's given me a an amazing wife, a great church, a loving family, and great friends. More than that He's blessed me by allowing me to know His son. I'm blessed. But I've also gone through hard times in life. I've been depressed, hurt, and broken hearted. It's during those hard times that I often question God's love for me. Like a spoiled child I wonder why should I serve Him if He's not going to protect me from pain and sorrow.
Hard times in life remind us that pain comes to all people. Loving God doesn't mean you will escape heartache. In this world you will have trouble! In times of pain and sorrow God uses things like the church, and the Bible to help remind us that He is in control. It reminds us that He does love us, and He does have a plan...even if we can't see it. I read the Bible, and go to church not because it makes God love me more. I do those things because it helps me to love God more. Loving God doesn't make God love us more. Loving God doesn't change God's perspective of us...it changes our perspective of Him.
Hard times in life remind us that pain comes to all people. Loving God doesn't mean you will escape heartache. In this world you will have trouble! In times of pain and sorrow God uses things like the church, and the Bible to help remind us that He is in control. It reminds us that He does love us, and He does have a plan...even if we can't see it. I read the Bible, and go to church not because it makes God love me more. I do those things because it helps me to love God more. Loving God doesn't make God love us more. Loving God doesn't change God's perspective of us...it changes our perspective of Him.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Fun-mobile
On Wednesday afternoon I was told that a member of our church offered to take the staff out to lunch. I then learned that he was coming to pick us up in a Party Bus.
On Thursday our staff walked outside to see this...
Are you kidding me? This thing is awesome and he put our logo on it. It was a fun surprise.Thursday, February 26, 2009
Cool or Uncool
Cool or Uncool, the relatively new game at robshep.com. Here's how you play.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or uncool: Crocs?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Rob's Rant
I like listening to the radio in my car. The problem is I don't get to listen that long because I live close to wherever I go. For example in the morning I listen for about 1o minutes on my way to the gym and 10 minutes on my way back. I also get a few minutes to listen to it on my way to and from work. It's just not a lot of time.
I hate it when radio DJ's do a lead in to a story. It goes something like this...we have HUGE news about a upcoming concert, we also have a hilarious story about a farmer who is growing a new crop that tastes like chocolate, and we can't wait to tell you about a BIG story in Hollywood. They then say something like...all that and more coming up in the next hour. So for my ten minutes I get to hear them talk about what is going to come on the radio. I wish they would just talk about the story and forget the lead in. I know why they do it. They want to hook listeners, but I'm not going to keep listening once I get to wherever I'm going. Rant over.
I hate it when radio DJ's do a lead in to a story. It goes something like this...we have HUGE news about a upcoming concert, we also have a hilarious story about a farmer who is growing a new crop that tastes like chocolate, and we can't wait to tell you about a BIG story in Hollywood. They then say something like...all that and more coming up in the next hour. So for my ten minutes I get to hear them talk about what is going to come on the radio. I wish they would just talk about the story and forget the lead in. I know why they do it. They want to hook listeners, but I'm not going to keep listening once I get to wherever I'm going. Rant over.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
I fought the dentist and the dentist won
I went to the dentist today. I'm 30 years old and I still haven't had a cavity. Not only that the dentist told me I had great teeth. The only problem is that when she went to clean them she cleaned them like she was upset at my mouth. She beat my gums up so bad my whole mouth was swollen. She pushed the sand blaster plaque remover (not official name) against my teeth so hard I thought they were going to uproot. I kept wincing in pain hoping she would notice but she just kept smiling. The dentist even poked my tongue with the sharp scraper (not official name). The dentist said a quick "I'm sorry" after that one. My mouth feels like it's been beat up. She even pulled out gauze to soak up the blood from my gums. I think the dentist hates that I have such good teeth.
Side Note: When it was over she asked if I would like a warm towel. I thought that was weird but I don't like to pass up new opportunities. I said yes and she brought me a hot mini towel to wipe my hands and blood soaked face. It was refreshing.
Side Note: When it was over she asked if I would like a warm towel. I thought that was weird but I don't like to pass up new opportunities. I said yes and she brought me a hot mini towel to wipe my hands and blood soaked face. It was refreshing.
TobyMac in Concert
When I was in sixth grade I saw a band called DC Talk in concert. Immediately they became my favorite band. They continued to be my favorite band until they disbanded. I still like their music. In fact if they were to get back together I would need to change my shorts because I would lose all body control and pee myself. Not really, but you get the point...I really liked this group. One of the members of DC Talk has gone on to have a successful solo career. His name is TobyMac and he puts on a great concert. On Sunday night Monica and I got to see him in concert. Here are some pics. 
Monday, February 23, 2009
The Robscars
The Oscars were last night. I'm glad that Slumdog Millionaire and Heath Ledger won. Being a big movie fan myself I thought I would celebrate my favorite movies of 2008. I now present to you the first ever Robscars. And the winners are...
BEST MOVIE I SAW IN 2008
The Dark Knight
SECOND BEST MOVIE I SAW IN 2008
Slumdog Millionaire
TAKE ONE FOR THE TEAM
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Two - I saw this with my wife...hence the award I took one for the team.
WORST MOVIE I SAW
The Punisher: War Zone
WORST MOVIE I DIDN'T SEE
The Love Guru
MOVIE THAT DESTROYED EVERYTHING I KNOW AND LOVE ABOUT INDIANA JONES
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
BEST ANIMATED MOVIE
Kung Fu Panda
MOVIE I DIDN'T SEE BUT I STILL QUESTIONED THE NEED FOR A SEQUEL
Step Up 2
BEST COMEDY
Baby Mama
FAVORITE SUPER HERO MOVIE THAT DIDN'T HAVE BATMAN IN IT
Iron Man
And there you have it the first ever Robscars. Do you have any favorite movies that didn't make the list?
BEST MOVIE I SAW IN 2008
The Dark Knight
SECOND BEST MOVIE I SAW IN 2008
Slumdog Millionaire
TAKE ONE FOR THE TEAM
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Two - I saw this with my wife...hence the award I took one for the team.
WORST MOVIE I SAW
The Punisher: War Zone
WORST MOVIE I DIDN'T SEE
The Love Guru
MOVIE THAT DESTROYED EVERYTHING I KNOW AND LOVE ABOUT INDIANA JONES
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
BEST ANIMATED MOVIE
Kung Fu Panda
MOVIE I DIDN'T SEE BUT I STILL QUESTIONED THE NEED FOR A SEQUEL
Step Up 2
BEST COMEDY
Baby Mama
FAVORITE SUPER HERO MOVIE THAT DIDN'T HAVE BATMAN IN IT
Iron Man
And there you have it the first ever Robscars. Do you have any favorite movies that didn't make the list?
Friday, February 20, 2009
American Idol
This week my friend Jamey received an email from Felicia Barton's husband. Felicia made the top 36 on American Idol. Jamey graduated with her husband Loren. I love stuff like this so I thought I would post it.
My friends.
It is now public knowledge that Felicia Barton (my beautiful bride!) will be performing in the third group of 12 semi-finalists on American Idol 8!! Not much to say, at the moment, other than “PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW TO WATCH HER PERFORMANCE (THE 1ST WEEK OF MARCH) AND VOTE, VOTE, VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!!!”
We are so grateful for all of your love, prayers and support. The flood of encouraging messages has been spectacular! Felicia feels so loved and supported, by you, during this unprecedented moment of opportunity in her life! If you are anything like me, you are still reeling over the fact that Felicia was brought back onto the show after being eliminated. It’s nothing short of a miracle...and she’s going to take the chance for all it’s worth!!!
A few helpful thoughts on voting for Felicia:
The voting lines will be open for 2 hours after the show...you can log as many votes as you can call in during that time!
Your cell phone will vote within it’s time zone. (i.e. If you have a CA area code, your voting window will be 3 hours later than other voting in EST)
Consider a few ‘practice votes’ during this coming week’s show, to familiarize yourself with the process...that way you’ll be a PRO when it comes time to vote for Felicia
VOTE AS MANY TIMES AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN!!
When you make it to onto American Idol...Felicia and I will vote for you!!!!
My friends.
It is now public knowledge that Felicia Barton (my beautiful bride!) will be performing in the third group of 12 semi-finalists on American Idol 8!! Not much to say, at the moment, other than “PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW TO WATCH HER PERFORMANCE (THE 1ST WEEK OF MARCH) AND VOTE, VOTE, VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!!!”
We are so grateful for all of your love, prayers and support. The flood of encouraging messages has been spectacular! Felicia feels so loved and supported, by you, during this unprecedented moment of opportunity in her life! If you are anything like me, you are still reeling over the fact that Felicia was brought back onto the show after being eliminated. It’s nothing short of a miracle...and she’s going to take the chance for all it’s worth!!!
A few helpful thoughts on voting for Felicia:
The voting lines will be open for 2 hours after the show...you can log as many votes as you can call in during that time!
Your cell phone will vote within it’s time zone. (i.e. If you have a CA area code, your voting window will be 3 hours later than other voting in EST)
Consider a few ‘practice votes’ during this coming week’s show, to familiarize yourself with the process...that way you’ll be a PRO when it comes time to vote for Felicia
VOTE AS MANY TIMES AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN!!
When you make it to onto American Idol...Felicia and I will vote for you!!!!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The World of Blogging
The thing I like about reading blogs is that it's like peaking into a window of people's lives. A blog may not show you everything about the person but it gives you a glimpse of who they are. I read a lot of blogs. Here are few that I read. Check them out, and don't be afraid to leave a comment on their site. Tell em Rob sent you.
- This guy leaves the best comments on my blog. People often ask me who he is because his comments make them laugh.
- This guy posted a really funny video about Facebook.
- My brother in law started a blog and I read it everyday.
- This guy has my favorite blog from Australia.
- I'm excited to go to her wedding in Texas!
- This guy told me yesterday that his goal was to have more readers than I do. He's wants this to happen in the next 30 days. Help him achieve his goal by visiting his site.
Is there a blog out there that you love to read? Let me know because I would love to check it out.
Would You Rather...
One of my favorite games for road trips, survey questions on the blog, or just hanging out with groups is "Would You Rather?" All you do is come up with two scenarios and ask people which one they would rather do. Now there is always someone who tries to destroy the game by saying they would rather do neither. In which I reply with a quick kick to the groin. I then ask them if they would have rather played the game or been kicked in the groin. Just joking.
Here are some examples: Would You Rather be A Rod or Barry Bonds? Would You Rather be rich and have no friends or be poor and have a lot of friends? Would You Rather be poked in the eye with a sharp stick or have your hand nibbled on by a cannibal? Would You Rather scrub floors or hang wallpaper? Would You Rather steal from an old lady or laugh out loud at a funeral? Would You Rather make a child cry or kick a puppy? Would Your Rather have a cat or a dog?
I've been playing this game for so long I've used most of the good ones multiple times. I'm looking for some new Would You Rather questions...do you have any that you would like to share?
Here are some examples: Would You Rather be A Rod or Barry Bonds? Would You Rather be rich and have no friends or be poor and have a lot of friends? Would You Rather be poked in the eye with a sharp stick or have your hand nibbled on by a cannibal? Would You Rather scrub floors or hang wallpaper? Would You Rather steal from an old lady or laugh out loud at a funeral? Would You Rather make a child cry or kick a puppy? Would Your Rather have a cat or a dog?
I've been playing this game for so long I've used most of the good ones multiple times. I'm looking for some new Would You Rather questions...do you have any that you would like to share?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Flossin like Mike Jones
Do you floss your teeth? I hate using dental floss. I floss because it makes my dentist appointment less painful. I have a dentist appointment next week. I start flossing about a week before a dentist appointment. A week allows me to get all the bleeding and swelling out my gums before I see the dentist. I know that is gross. On a side note...up to this point in my life I've never had a cavity.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Rob's Rant
Recently I was watching TV and even though I have a million channels there was nothing on. I ended up watching part of the movie Starsky and Hutch with Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson. What I saw was mildly amusing, but I felt this rant rise up in me that I wanted to share with the world.
I don't understand why Hollywood takes classic TV shows and makes them into sub par comedies. To my knowledge Starsky and Hutch wasn't a comedy when it originally aired on TV. A more recent example is the upcoming movie Land of the Lost starring Will Ferrell. As a kid I loved Land of the Lost and there was nothing funny about it. Sure looking back it was a cheesy show, but it wasn't a comedy. Hollywood turned the classic Brady Bunch into a movie that spoofed the Brady family. Hollywood turned the wholesome Dukes of Hazard into comedy with pot smoking, and a little action thrown in.
In my opinion Hollywood should update classic TV and make great movies. Case in point The Fugitive staring Harrison Ford. Another example is Mission Impossible. Although I only really like part III, they attempted to make great movies from a classic TV show. Rant over.
I don't understand why Hollywood takes classic TV shows and makes them into sub par comedies. To my knowledge Starsky and Hutch wasn't a comedy when it originally aired on TV. A more recent example is the upcoming movie Land of the Lost starring Will Ferrell. As a kid I loved Land of the Lost and there was nothing funny about it. Sure looking back it was a cheesy show, but it wasn't a comedy. Hollywood turned the classic Brady Bunch into a movie that spoofed the Brady family. Hollywood turned the wholesome Dukes of Hazard into comedy with pot smoking, and a little action thrown in.
In my opinion Hollywood should update classic TV and make great movies. Case in point The Fugitive staring Harrison Ford. Another example is Mission Impossible. Although I only really like part III, they attempted to make great movies from a classic TV show. Rant over.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Cool or Uncool
Cool or Uncool, the fairly new game at robshep.com. Here's how you play.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or uncool: Guys wearing v-neck t-shirts?
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or uncool: Guys wearing v-neck t-shirts?
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day. A day of romance, chocolate, roses, and fine dining. Or a day created by Hallmark to peer pressure men to do something romantic. Whether you love it or loathe it, today is the day to be romantic...and the pressure's on. According to the news, the average couple spends over $100 on each other to celebrate Valentines Day.
About five years ago Monica and I started a new tradition to bring a little life into the holiday. We take turns planning Valentine's Day. One year I will do all the planning, gift buying, and romantic stuff. The next year it's Monica's turn. It's fun because it's a complete surprise for the other person.
This year is Monica's year. I woke up to find a great letter (not a card...a one page letter) and two gifts (Coldplay's newest album with 8 new tracks and a new DVD). She also gave me a gift last night right before bed...
get your mind out of the gutter. I would never blog about that. She gave me a Superman action figure to add to my collection.
Later today we are going to the gym together and then out for a Valentine's Day lunch.
Switching off planning the day has made this a fun holiday. So that's what I'm doing to celebrate, but the question is what are your plans for Valentine's Day and how do you feel about it?
Side Note: Growing up Valentine's Day was special to me because it is my half birthday. Because my birthday is in the summer my mom would make a cake or giant cookie so I could celebrate my birthday during the school year. I don't know anyone else who does this but as a kid I loved it. It was a big deal to celebrate your birthday in school and because of my mom's creativity I was able to.
About five years ago Monica and I started a new tradition to bring a little life into the holiday. We take turns planning Valentine's Day. One year I will do all the planning, gift buying, and romantic stuff. The next year it's Monica's turn. It's fun because it's a complete surprise for the other person.
This year is Monica's year. I woke up to find a great letter (not a card...a one page letter) and two gifts (Coldplay's newest album with 8 new tracks and a new DVD). She also gave me a gift last night right before bed...
get your mind out of the gutter. I would never blog about that. She gave me a Superman action figure to add to my collection.
Later today we are going to the gym together and then out for a Valentine's Day lunch.
Switching off planning the day has made this a fun holiday. So that's what I'm doing to celebrate, but the question is what are your plans for Valentine's Day and how do you feel about it?
Side Note: Growing up Valentine's Day was special to me because it is my half birthday. Because my birthday is in the summer my mom would make a cake or giant cookie so I could celebrate my birthday during the school year. I don't know anyone else who does this but as a kid I loved it. It was a big deal to celebrate your birthday in school and because of my mom's creativity I was able to.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday the 13th
Today is Friday the 13th Dun Dun Dunnnnnnnn.
I guess because of the movie, "Friday the 13th" Part 1 through 256, today has some superstition around it. There are other superstitions out there. For example black cats, walking under a ladder, and breaking a mirror. I recently learned that most hotels don't have a 13th floor. Many hotels will go from the 12th floor to the 14th floor. Apparently the 13th floor has so much superstition around it people don't want to stay there. It has me wondering what superstitions do you have?
I guess because of the movie, "Friday the 13th" Part 1 through 256, today has some superstition around it. There are other superstitions out there. For example black cats, walking under a ladder, and breaking a mirror. I recently learned that most hotels don't have a 13th floor. Many hotels will go from the 12th floor to the 14th floor. Apparently the 13th floor has so much superstition around it people don't want to stay there. It has me wondering what superstitions do you have?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
This is American (insert dramatic Ryan Seacrest pause) Idol
My wife, Monica, and I enjoy the show American Idol. In case you are wondering yes we do vote. Normally it takes me a few weeks to find the contestant I want to back, but this year Monica and I saw someone during the audition that we both like. Her name is Felicia Barton.
We like her for a couple of reasons...
1. She can blow. This phrase is a reference to the fact that she can sing her face off.
2. She is from VA Beach. Monica is from VA Beach.
Come to find out her and Monica grew up on the same street.
3. Her last name is Barton. Rob went to high school with a guy named Loren Barton.
Come to find out Felicia is married to Loren. Loren was a few years younger than me so I didn't know him well, but we went to a small school so I knew who he was.
4. Did I mention she can flat blow.
Anyway last night Felicia was cut from the show. We were hoping for her to make it to the final 36 because that is when America gets to vote. Simon said it was a split decision which I assume means he liked her but some of the other judges didn't think she had what it takes...errrrrrr (slam on the breaks)...
Today we find out that one of the contestants in the top 36 was booted off the show and they replaced her with Felicia!!!! I plan on voting for her when she sings next week. You should vote for her too. Just in case you don't believe me that she can flat sing here is a video of her singing in VA Beach. Her husband is playing guitar.
We like her for a couple of reasons...
1. She can blow. This phrase is a reference to the fact that she can sing her face off.
2. She is from VA Beach. Monica is from VA Beach.
Come to find out her and Monica grew up on the same street.
3. Her last name is Barton. Rob went to high school with a guy named Loren Barton.
Come to find out Felicia is married to Loren. Loren was a few years younger than me so I didn't know him well, but we went to a small school so I knew who he was.
4. Did I mention she can flat blow.
Anyway last night Felicia was cut from the show. We were hoping for her to make it to the final 36 because that is when America gets to vote. Simon said it was a split decision which I assume means he liked her but some of the other judges didn't think she had what it takes...errrrrrr (slam on the breaks)...
Today we find out that one of the contestants in the top 36 was booted off the show and they replaced her with Felicia!!!! I plan on voting for her when she sings next week. You should vote for her too. Just in case you don't believe me that she can flat sing here is a video of her singing in VA Beach. Her husband is playing guitar.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
How to be a Ninja
My friend sent me this video today and it is ha-larious. We can't decide if this guy is for real or an act. If he is an act he is a great actor. If he is for real...well watch and you will know what I mean.
One Fear I Have
I don't fear a lot of things. From time to time I get spooked but I wouldn't describe myself as a fearful person. There is however one thing that I do fear. To me it's scarier than Michael Myers, Jason, The Grudge, The Ring, and the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The thing that I fear is...destroying my life.
Whether it's sports stars, Hollywood celebrities, or famous pastors no one is immune from making a decision that will destroy life as they know it. I read this the other day and it has me thinking... "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." There is a way that seems right...that means that in the moment it feels like a good idea...but in the end it leads to death. Death of a dream, a reputation, or a relationship.
I have a fear of doing something that I have convinced myself is right and then watching that decision kill my life. It's so easy to allow selfishness to convince us that momentary pleasure is worth the sacrifice of everything we know.
Whether it's sports stars, Hollywood celebrities, or famous pastors no one is immune from making a decision that will destroy life as they know it. I read this the other day and it has me thinking... "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." There is a way that seems right...that means that in the moment it feels like a good idea...but in the end it leads to death. Death of a dream, a reputation, or a relationship.
I have a fear of doing something that I have convinced myself is right and then watching that decision kill my life. It's so easy to allow selfishness to convince us that momentary pleasure is worth the sacrifice of everything we know.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Let's Get It On!
This Sunday Waters Edge kicks off a brand new series entitled "Let's Get It On." It's a bold new series to help relationships (dating, want to be dating, married) go to a whole new level.
We printed invite cards with the title of the series on them. We understand that it could be a little awkward to invite someone to church by saying "Let's get it on". In fact we understand it so much we sent Jamey Menser, logistics manager and ministry specialist at Waters Edge, to film a video with tips on inviting people to church during this series.
Now that you have experience inviting tips with Jamey watch this next video. It's the slap reel from the first scene...and yes the slaps were real.
We printed invite cards with the title of the series on them. We understand that it could be a little awkward to invite someone to church by saying "Let's get it on". In fact we understand it so much we sent Jamey Menser, logistics manager and ministry specialist at Waters Edge, to film a video with tips on inviting people to church during this series.
Now that you have experience inviting tips with Jamey watch this next video. It's the slap reel from the first scene...and yes the slaps were real.
Hatorade
I'm tired of my friends drinking hatorade and spewing it towards the NBA. It seems like most of my friends gave up on the NBA years ago and they now only watch college basketball. The problem is not that they don't watch the NBA it's that they don't watch and they hate on the NBA. Let me just say it's time to lay off the hatorade. The last couple of years have been most excellent in the NBA. This year so far has been crazy good! Normally it takes the NBA half a season to heat up, but not this year. This year you have the Lakers, Lebron, The Big Three in Boston, the resurgence of Dwayne Wade, the boring Spurs, and the Knicks making great TV (The Knicks because they allowed Kobe to score 61 and Lebron to almost get a triple double).
This past week I watched two great games and a bunch of other highlights. This weekend is the NBA All Star festivities and yes I'm excited about it. I'm telling you if you are not watching the NBA you are missing out. Stop saying it's a bunch of one on one selfish players. Stop consuming your hatorade and show some love to the NBA.
This past week I watched two great games and a bunch of other highlights. This weekend is the NBA All Star festivities and yes I'm excited about it. I'm telling you if you are not watching the NBA you are missing out. Stop saying it's a bunch of one on one selfish players. Stop consuming your hatorade and show some love to the NBA.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Cool or Uncool
Cool or Uncool, the semi new game at robshep.com. Here's how you play.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or Uncool?
Talking on the phone while using the bathroom. This was inspired by my recent bathroom stop at the restaurant Texas Roadhouse. When I walked in someone was in the stall dropping a deuce while talking on the phone.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or Uncool?
Talking on the phone while using the bathroom. This was inspired by my recent bathroom stop at the restaurant Texas Roadhouse. When I walked in someone was in the stall dropping a deuce while talking on the phone.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
W.A.T.G.
It takes about 25 minutes to get to my friends, Dan and Danielle's, house. It's a long trek, but well worth it. A few months ago my wife and I invented a game to help us pass the time during the long drive. We call it W.A.T.G. (pronounced wat-gu).
For some reason there are always people walking down this really long street called Jefferson Avenue. It doesn't matter what time of day, or how cold or hot it is. Every time we leave Dan and Danielle's we make our guess at how many people will be walking. The last time we played Monica guessed 7 and I guessed 9. There were exactly 7 people walking at 12:20 something AM. It's a fun game that I think will soon sweep the Hampton Roads area. W.A.T.G. stands for Where Are They Going?
We don't understand why anyone would be walking outside in the cold past midnight. Sometimes they have grocery bags from 7-11. Sometimes they are making new friends on the corner...normally new lady friends. Sometimes they are just enjoying their walk down Jefferson. I don't know why they are walking, but I'm glad they are because this is a fun game.
For some reason there are always people walking down this really long street called Jefferson Avenue. It doesn't matter what time of day, or how cold or hot it is. Every time we leave Dan and Danielle's we make our guess at how many people will be walking. The last time we played Monica guessed 7 and I guessed 9. There were exactly 7 people walking at 12:20 something AM. It's a fun game that I think will soon sweep the Hampton Roads area. W.A.T.G. stands for Where Are They Going?
We don't understand why anyone would be walking outside in the cold past midnight. Sometimes they have grocery bags from 7-11. Sometimes they are making new friends on the corner...normally new lady friends. Sometimes they are just enjoying their walk down Jefferson. I don't know why they are walking, but I'm glad they are because this is a fun game.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Movie Review - He's Just Not That Into You
Guest Bloggers: Monica and Courtney
To celebrate Nicole's birthday (my sister-in-law), ten of us (all women) went to see a classic chick flick. Courtney & I each give it one thumb up, but this is not to be confused with a two thumbs up rating. It's was pretty good, we were glad we only paid $5.00, and we might would buy it from the $5 bin. It has a pretty big cast and some of the best parts are in the previews. The movie is very predictable and is full of stereotypes, but it's fun to see how all of the characters were connected. There was some force crudeness/inappropriateness they could have done without as well. Marriage was also given a bad rap, which always makes us sad. We hope single women out there learn some lessons because the craziness portrayed, which really happens, does not make you more attractive. Quit making excuses; he's probably just not that into you. Men, as Beyonce says, if you like it then you better put a ring on it!
Rob's Rating System: Two Thumbs up = I loved it, worth paying full price, and I will own it on DVD. One Thumb up = An OK movie, worth a matinee showing, and I may buy it on DVD if I see it in the $5 bin. Thumb to the side = Wait and rent it. I wouldn't be mad if someone gave me this DVD, but I wouldn't buy it. Thumbs down = I hated it, wish I wouldn't have wasted money on it, wouldn't own it on DVD.
To celebrate Nicole's birthday (my sister-in-law), ten of us (all women) went to see a classic chick flick. Courtney & I each give it one thumb up, but this is not to be confused with a two thumbs up rating. It's was pretty good, we were glad we only paid $5.00, and we might would buy it from the $5 bin. It has a pretty big cast and some of the best parts are in the previews. The movie is very predictable and is full of stereotypes, but it's fun to see how all of the characters were connected. There was some force crudeness/inappropriateness they could have done without as well. Marriage was also given a bad rap, which always makes us sad. We hope single women out there learn some lessons because the craziness portrayed, which really happens, does not make you more attractive. Quit making excuses; he's probably just not that into you. Men, as Beyonce says, if you like it then you better put a ring on it!
Rob's Rating System: Two Thumbs up = I loved it, worth paying full price, and I will own it on DVD. One Thumb up = An OK movie, worth a matinee showing, and I may buy it on DVD if I see it in the $5 bin. Thumb to the side = Wait and rent it. I wouldn't be mad if someone gave me this DVD, but I wouldn't buy it. Thumbs down = I hated it, wish I wouldn't have wasted money on it, wouldn't own it on DVD.
Flip the Switch
There is a mysterious red switch in my house that says Emergency On Off Switch. I didn't dare touch this switch for the first few years of living in my house. Our first winter in the house we woke up one morning and noticed that we could see our breath. The heat stopped working and it was cold. The next night my wife and I borrowed a mini heater, slept in sleeping bags, and cuddled just to stay alive. It was on a weekend so we had to wait until Monday for the heating repair guy to come.
The heating repair guy told us that we had an old unit but that there was nothing wrong with it. It's a gas unit and it came with our 13 year old house. He hit it. It started working. That was the end of our heat problems...for that year.
The next winter the same thing happened. Just read the paragraph above again because it was the exact same situation. After the heating repair guy came this year our heat went out again. I called a friend who knows what he is doing and he came by to look at the heat. He said it was an old unit, and we were going to have to replace it at some point. It would cost about 5 grand, but currently there is nothing wrong with it. His suggestion was to flip the mysterious red switch that says Emergency On Off Switch, and wait ten seconds. After ten seconds he said we should flip the switch back. This worked and got us through another winter.
This winter our heat went off once again, but this time I didn't call the repair man. I simply flipped the mysterious red switch that says Emergency On Off Switch. We have to flip this switch a few times a week, but our heat stays on...most of the time.
Life often throws at us obstacles, problems, hurt and pain. Most of the time we don't know how to handle life when it breaks. I get to spend a lot of time with teenagers. I've listened to some horrific stories of sexual abuse, neglecting parents, and broken hearts. I hurt for these students because often they turn to alcohol, drugs, cutting, or sex. I tell them that I don't judge them. I understand why. The problem is that for some reason they don't want to deal with the problem. Whenever you have a broken heart it makes sense that you want to fix it. The problem is that most things people try are temporary. It's like flipping the mysterious red switch in my house that says Emergency On Off Switch. It helps for a little while but until we change the unit we repeat the same cycle over and over again. Eventually the only cure for a broken heart is to forgive whoever broke it. If you don't bitterness, hurt, and pain will continually cause you to be broken. Band aids don't help gun shot wounds. When someone hurts you you've got to take care of the problem. It takes time, but eventually forgiving the one who hurt you is the only real solution. Everything else is just temporary.
The heating repair guy told us that we had an old unit but that there was nothing wrong with it. It's a gas unit and it came with our 13 year old house. He hit it. It started working. That was the end of our heat problems...for that year.
The next winter the same thing happened. Just read the paragraph above again because it was the exact same situation. After the heating repair guy came this year our heat went out again. I called a friend who knows what he is doing and he came by to look at the heat. He said it was an old unit, and we were going to have to replace it at some point. It would cost about 5 grand, but currently there is nothing wrong with it. His suggestion was to flip the mysterious red switch that says Emergency On Off Switch, and wait ten seconds. After ten seconds he said we should flip the switch back. This worked and got us through another winter.
This winter our heat went off once again, but this time I didn't call the repair man. I simply flipped the mysterious red switch that says Emergency On Off Switch. We have to flip this switch a few times a week, but our heat stays on...most of the time.
Life often throws at us obstacles, problems, hurt and pain. Most of the time we don't know how to handle life when it breaks. I get to spend a lot of time with teenagers. I've listened to some horrific stories of sexual abuse, neglecting parents, and broken hearts. I hurt for these students because often they turn to alcohol, drugs, cutting, or sex. I tell them that I don't judge them. I understand why. The problem is that for some reason they don't want to deal with the problem. Whenever you have a broken heart it makes sense that you want to fix it. The problem is that most things people try are temporary. It's like flipping the mysterious red switch in my house that says Emergency On Off Switch. It helps for a little while but until we change the unit we repeat the same cycle over and over again. Eventually the only cure for a broken heart is to forgive whoever broke it. If you don't bitterness, hurt, and pain will continually cause you to be broken. Band aids don't help gun shot wounds. When someone hurts you you've got to take care of the problem. It takes time, but eventually forgiving the one who hurt you is the only real solution. Everything else is just temporary.
Friday, February 6, 2009
ChaCha
Have you heard of ChaCha? Some of the Students in my Student Community Group told me about it. It's pretty cool. If you ever have a question simply call ChaCha and they will text you back an answer in a manner of minutes. It's provided for by AT & T. If you want to know how how many years Kobe Bryant has left on his contract...ask ChaCha. They told me "If Kobe stays with the Lakers he could play out the remaining years on his contract and become a free agent in July 2011." If you want to know how much the Notorious B.I.G. weighed before he died...ask ChaCha. ChaCha says, "Christopher Wallace, a.k.a. Biggie Smalls weighed over 400 pounds before he died." Or maybe you want to know how many calories and fat grams are in your favorite meal. According to ChaCha there are "758 calories and 35 grams of fat in a Chicken Fajita Burrito from Chipotle." Or maybe you are in a debate and you want to prove what the number one movie at the Box Office was in 1988. ChaCha says, "Die Hard (1988) and the Rambo series (1982, 1985, 1988) all have achieved such success in the action genre." Um...OK, well I guess they don't get the answer right every time. In case you are wondering "Rain Man" was the number one movie at the Box Office in 1988 (Die Hard was 7th and Rambo III was 16th).
All you have to do is call 1.800.224.2242. They say that it is free but standard text messaging rates may apply. Give it a whirl. It's fun.
All you have to do is call 1.800.224.2242. They say that it is free but standard text messaging rates may apply. Give it a whirl. It's fun.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Cool or Uncool
Cool or Uncool, the new game at robshep.com. Here's how you play.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or Uncool?
White guys wearing shorts, and flip flops to the store when it is freezing outside. I say white guys because that is the only race I see doing this.
Step 1: Read the question below.
Step 2: Decide whether you think it is cool or uncool.
Step 3: Post your decision by leaving a comment.
Cool or Uncool?
White guys wearing shorts, and flip flops to the store when it is freezing outside. I say white guys because that is the only race I see doing this.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
25 Random Facts
Are you on Facebook? If so you have probably been tagged by the 25 Random Things Monster. It's everywhere. If you're not on Facebook it's basically a survey you send out to 25 people about 25 random things about yourself. I called it a monster, but I actually like it. It's fun reading random facts about my friends. I don't know if I'm going to answer the requests on Facebook simply because you have to tag 25 people (which means you request for them to do the same thing you just did). If I did answer here is what I would put...
- My first kiss was to my wife Monica.
- I own 6 Lakers jerseys. And yes I do wear them.
- I went to 12 or 13 different schools. It was so many I lost track. My dad was military so we moved a lot. I do remember that I went to 3 different kindergartens.
- I still buy action figures from time to time. They are not dolls they are action figures.
- I like Batman more than Superman. This may shock some people but it is true.
- When I was in the 7th grade I felt God was calling me to be a rapper. Vanilla Ice was popular and my favorite group was dc Talk. Gangster rap soon entered the scene and my dreams were crushed.
- My mom once told my wife she was surprised I wanted to keep the name Christian in the family. Monica and I like Christian as a middle name. After a few seconds Monica asked why she was surprised and my mom said she didn't know I liked my middle name that much. Monica then gently reminded her that my middle name is Christopher...not Christian.
- I sang in a band for two years called Sixth Day Wonder. We once preformed at a theme park called Kings Dominion.
- Sometimes I watch a movie on DVD and right when it's over I want to watch it again. Case in point the Dark Knight.
- I started robshep.com because I wanted to connect with other pastors. Because of the blog I now have friends that I have never met in person.
- My worst fear in life is that Monica would die before me. Call me selfish but I can't live without her.
- I worked at a local radio station my first year in college.
- I set a goal this year to write a book.
- I was so excited when I heard a Chipotle was coming to the 757 that my wife said I acted like she just told me we were pregnant.
- When I lived in Kansas I would ask Jesus to come into my heart every night before I went to bed. Why? Because my room was on the third floor of our house, I was in a bunk bed, and there were lots of tornadoes. I was afraid a tornado would hit our house at night and because I was so high up I knew I would die.
- I put my DVD collection in alphabetical order. It makes it easier to find a DVD when I'm looking for it.
- I became a Lakers fan when I was in third grade.
- I like to listen to other preachers. My favorites are Andy Stanley, Perry Noble, and Rob Bell.
- I have never tasted beer. I'm not against other adults drinking in moderation I just think it smells like urine. Plus people say you have to acquire a taste for it. I don't want to acquire a taste for something that I think smells like urine.
- I iron my clothes everyday...including my jeans.
- I wrote movie reviews for the Daily Press (local newspaper) when I was in college. My pay was a movie ticket to go see the movie they wanted me to review.
- I don't laugh out loud a lot. I wish I did because I like to laugh.
- My brother is the funniest person I know...he is one of the few people that can consistently make me laugh out loud.
- If my left hand was made out of the buffalo chicken dip my wife makes...I would eat it. I would try to resist but after about 3o seconds I would consume the yummy goodness that is my left hand.
- I don't go to the bathroom if my wife is in there. I also don't enter the bathroom if she is using the facilities. It kills the romance and the belief I have that girls don't poo.
So that is 25 Random facts about Rob. Now that I've shared 25 I would love to know one random fact about you.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Attack of the Clones
Did you hear about the Florida couple who had their dead dog cloned? I heard about this today and it blew my mind. The couple payed $150,000 to have their dog cloned. Seriously? Maybe it's because I don't own a pet but this seems crazy to me.
Question: If you had the money who or what would you clone?
Rob's answer: My wife Monica. I assume the clone would be injected with miracle grow so it would be the same age as her. Currently Monica is pretty stressed with her class load at William and Mary. She juggles a lot. She is a great wife, a Student Community Group Leader at church, volunteers on Sundays at church, works full time as a fourth grade teacher, and she is getting her masters at William and Mary. Whenever Monica gets stressed I would insert the clone to help her. The clone could type as Monica dictated a paper, clean the house so Monica could relax, and fill in for Monica at her job from 8:00 to 9:00 AM so Monica could sleep in a little.
Question: If you had the money who or what would you clone?
Rob's answer: My wife Monica. I assume the clone would be injected with miracle grow so it would be the same age as her. Currently Monica is pretty stressed with her class load at William and Mary. She juggles a lot. She is a great wife, a Student Community Group Leader at church, volunteers on Sundays at church, works full time as a fourth grade teacher, and she is getting her masters at William and Mary. Whenever Monica gets stressed I would insert the clone to help her. The clone could type as Monica dictated a paper, clean the house so Monica could relax, and fill in for Monica at her job from 8:00 to 9:00 AM so Monica could sleep in a little.
My Former Pastor
When I was in Seminary my wife and I were members at Fellowship Church in Grapevine TX. We loved our time there! Fellowship is very creative and it has influenced my views on church a lot over the years. Anyway the pastor of Fellowship, Ed Young Jr, was on The Colbert Report a few weeks ago. The Colbert Report is a news satire/comedy show on Comedy Central. It was great to see him on there. If you have a second watch the clip.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Super Bowl Superlatives
The Super Bowl was a great game. The commercials were decent. The halftime show was lame. I blame Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson for this. Ever since their infamous wardrobe malfunction the halftime show has been old men in concert. Anyway I thought I would give out some superlatives for the Super Bowl.
Best highlight: The longest play in Super Bowl history...the interception for the touchdown.
Funniest Commercial: The Doritos commercial with the guy and the crystal ball.
Most Awkward: Bruce Springsteen sliding on his knees and hitting the camera with his crotch.
Favorite Commercial: The G.I. Joe preview.
Most Surprising: Hearing TobyMac being played as the Cardinals took the field.
Most likely to succeed: The Office after the Super Bowl...it was ha-larious.
Most disappointing: The commercials overall. GE needs to save their money and not make Super Bowl commercials. I also think that the beer commercials with the horses were a wast of money.
Overall it was a great night. Are there any superlatives that you would give out for the game?
Best highlight: The longest play in Super Bowl history...the interception for the touchdown.
Funniest Commercial: The Doritos commercial with the guy and the crystal ball.
Most Awkward: Bruce Springsteen sliding on his knees and hitting the camera with his crotch.
Favorite Commercial: The G.I. Joe preview.
Most Surprising: Hearing TobyMac being played as the Cardinals took the field.
Most likely to succeed: The Office after the Super Bowl...it was ha-larious.
Most disappointing: The commercials overall. GE needs to save their money and not make Super Bowl commercials. I also think that the beer commercials with the horses were a wast of money.
Overall it was a great night. Are there any superlatives that you would give out for the game?
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