Team Henderson

Summit Peak Half Marathon

2012-01-10T21:13:00.000-08:00

Hannah and Eric run during the week at work and are generally in pretty good shape. So, it wasn't a complete surprise earlier in the year when they set a goal of participating in a half marathon before the end of 2011. So, as the year waned Hannah looked around for a nearby half marathon to participate in. Having stumbled upon the Summit Peak Half Marathon in nearby Saratoga, she checked out the website and saw a bunch of smiling, happy participants; just what she was looking for. They seemed happy.. so she signed up and then got Eric to come along with her.

On December 10th Hannah and Eric were off to the Summit Peak Half Marathon. Julie and I were invited along as their support staff providing such important services as a ride to the race location, photography, in-race cheering and post race buffet. We were honored to have the chance to participate.

The course map is shown below.

Now, right off the bat, there are some subtle clues that this might not be your normal, relatively flat, half-marathon. For instance, the name of the race includes the words 'Summit' - which is not a word associated with low elevations. Also, the word 'Peak' is used. Another word not generally used together with the terms 'flat', 'level' or 'easy'. A third clue might have been when you looked at the map and noticed elevation rings. Many elevation rings. Oh, at the race course is located in the Santa Cruz MOUNTAINS.

As we climbed up road to Sanborn County Park I think it started to dawn on the kids that this wasn't going to be a simple run in the park. The windy, uphill road snaked through the redwoods until we reached our location.

Undaunted, the kids checked in and got their race numbers and prepared to get going.

As I was checking with the race staff to determine where we could go to cheer for Hannah and Eric it became obvious this was a unique course. The race was run entirely on wilderness trails and there was only 1 place (at the half-way turnaround) where observers could park to encourage their racers. At that point Julie and I decided to split up. She would go to the turnaround in the car and I would take off (since it was more than 30 minutes to race start) on foot and go find a place along the course where I could take photographs. So, armed with my camera I was off through the start and walking.

Immediately, I started to get concerned for the kids. You see, after the first 100 yards or so the course starts a continuous upward track - relatively steep in many places. As it turns out - this little chart - which Eric found after the fact - might have been very helpful as they were evaluating which race to enter ;)

As you can see - the course is a significant uphill for the entire first 4 miles. Then, the course meanders up and down for the next couple miles - reversing the pattern on the return (it's a back and forth course). In all there is over 1/2 mile of elevation change during the race!

I was able to cover the first 2.5 miles or so before finding a spot where I could get good pictures (and a good workout myself). I worried as I waited for our racers to come by.

Fortunately, as I spied them down the hill on a switchback (note the narrow trail they were running on) they were in excellent spirits! Note: the pictures are dark because it was early in the morning and in the middle of a forest.

As they came up the hill and ran by me they looked like they were doing very well! I cheered them on and then they were off - continually gaining altitude!

Well, it was going to be awhile before I saw them again (they had to SUMMIT and then come back down) - so I moved my location down to about 1.25 miles from the finish (around mile 12). I remember running a long, tough race and it was an incredible encouragement to me to have my family and friends there to cheer me on. And there were so many random people along the course that would cheer for all the participants. So, this was my opportunity to give something back. Knowing I was one of the few non-racers on the course - I really got into encouraging every racer as they ran by. It was an easy thing to do because having walked just a portion of the course I was incredibly impressed with anyone that would finish this race.

It was an inspirational moment to finally spot Hannah and Eric coming towards me. They may not have noticed, but it really got me all choked up. So - I snapped away with the camera and cheered for them! Only a mile or so more to go... and it's all down hill!! I knew they would be fine. Don't they look great?!

In a flash they were by me and approaching the aid station. A few gummy bears and a last drink of water and they were off - racing towards the finish and the achievement of a difficult goal.

As I started my own trek down to meet them at the finish I had a chance to reflect on their achievement. I was absolutely certain they had no idea just how difficult this race would be. I would guess they are both capable of running the distance on a relatively flat course in a couple hours or so - give or take. This race would take them over 3 hours. And yet, they kept their composure and seemed to actually thrive on the difficulty. Also, they stayed together throughout. That is an admirable trait - to come alongside your friend and provide mutual encouragement to achieve a difficult goal. I was filled with pride as I returned to the start to see them reveling in their accomplishment.

Way to go Hannah and Eric! You should be very proud of yourselves.

Can't wait to go to your next race!

Sad but oddly interesting

2011-12-17T15:43:00.000-08:00

Julie was reading our local obituaries for some reason this morning and stumbled onto this. I've changed some of the names and facts to protect identities. However, this is so tragically sad and interesting I had to share it:

My dear mother, Margaret Walters, died on Dec 2, 2011 after a lengthy and involuntary confinement at El Camino Hospital at the age of 89. Mom was born the daughter of ....and graduated at the top of her class at Wellington High School in Illinois. She was very proud of her hometown, returning for over 50 years to her high school reunions.

My mother was an extremely intelligent woman and wanted desperately to go on to college immediately after graduation, her grandfather offering to pay her expenses at University of Illinois, to which she had been accepted.

Her father disallowed that, stating that 'girls only get married'. Her older brother, Eli, went in her stead. Eli flunked out after one semester. My dear mother, over the objections, constant interference, and sabotage by my father, John Walters, finally earned her Bachelor of Arts degree on December 23, 1994 at the age of 72 and her Masters of Arts in Sociology at the age of 76, both from San Jose State University.

FIND THE FACT game

2011-12-16T15:01:00.000-08:00

I just read the transcript by Nancy Pelosi this morning and decided to play my favorite game "FIND THE FACT" after reading it. Wanna play along? Ok. Here we go.

Here's a Transcript of her remarks:

“Christmas is 10 days away,” said Pelosi at a pressbriefing on Capitol Hill today. “The president and Democrats in Congress havebeen very clear. We're not going homewithout enacting a payroll tax cut for America's working families and extendingunemployment insurance for millions of Americans.”

“The payroll tax cut that the president proposedwould put $1,500 in the pockets of 160 million Americans,” she said. “Theunemployment insurance extension is not only good for individuals. It has amacroeconomic impact. As macroeconomic advisers have stated, it would make adifference of 600,000 jobs to our economy.”

Let's Play!!

ROUND 1: Is the fact there are 160 million Americans working?

Oh... sorry. No. There are only 140 Million people employed in the US... not 160 Million.

ROUND 2: Is the fact The payroll tax cut that the president proposedwould put $1,500 in the pockets of 160 million Americans?

Oh... sorry. No. Aside from there not being 160M Americans in the workforce.. for the 2% payroll tax to put $1,500 in the pocket of anyone they would need to make $75,000 per year ($75,000*2% = $1,500).

Oops.. but 88.5% of workers in the US don't make $75,000. in fact, the average worker makes slightly more than $24,000. In reality, only about 17.5 Million workers would get $1,500. Meaning: 88.5% of working Americans would get less than $1,500.

ROUND 3: Is the fact: As macroeconomic advisers have stated, it would make adifference of 600,000 jobs to our economy?

Oh... sorry. No. Besides.. she never really said it would ADD or SUBTRACT jobs in our economy. She simply said it would 'make a difference' to some jobs in our economy. No, this is political-speak - and as such cannot be considered a fact.

ROUND 4: Is the fact: Christmas is 10 days away?

Ahhhhhhh... yes. There we found it. Nancy Pelosi did get one fact right in her statement! Well done!!

Kindle Touch Review

2011-12-06T14:02:00.001-08:00

I'm a relatively voracious reader. Years ago, I started walking. A lot. To do the amount of walking I do a day takes some time. Soon thereafter I learned that I could combine my love of reading with walking and kill two birds with one stone. It's something I love to do. My colleagues at work can confirm this as I am known there as 'that guy that walks everyday at lunchtime reading a book'.

I haven't owned or spent much time with Kindles - so I don't bring any particular experience that allows me to compare the Kindle Touch to previous Kindle versions. However, I do own an iPad and have spent hours and hours reading on that - through the iBooks e-reader as well as a Kindle App.

My two-word review of the Kindle Touch: Buy One!!

There's only a few technical things you need to know about a Kindle. First, they use a display technology called e-ink that creates very sharp text on a non-reflective display. There are two huge advantages to this technology: it's amazingly easy to read in bright sunlight and it doesn't strain your eyes like reading from a computer monitor type display will. That means... if you read a lot... or love reading outside - buy a Kindle Touch*.

Second, it's ridiculously light. I weighed a couple paperback books on a kitchen scale one day at Target. Very scientific, I know. I found that a book on the thinner side weighed 7-8 ounces while a book on the fatter side weighed between 9-10 ounces. Obviously, hard cover books weigh more. The Kindle Touch weighs around 7.5 oz. It's lighter than most books. That means you can carry it around in one hand for long periods of time with no fatigue. Sweet!! By comparison - the iPad weighs around 1.5 lbs (the iPad2 is around 1.3). It's not hard for such a manly-man as myself to carry - but it's definitely a two-handed proposition.

Thirdly, it's a well-integrated system. That sounds complex.. but all I mean is that the entire process of acquiring, physically getting the book onto the Kindle Touch and reading it once it's on there is really well thought out. For instance, you can buy a book on Amazon.com and it will pretty much like magic show up on your Kindle**. This process takes less time than going to the library and standing in line to check a book out.

Oh, and if you're the type that likes to beat decisions into the ground... you could agonize over the Kindle vs. Nook... or Kindle Keyboard vs Kindle Touch questions. My suggestion: don't bother. Buy the Kindle Touch. Why? Simple.. it is the winner. Remember VHS vs Beta? Remember Laser Disks vs Blue Ray? Remember Facebook vs MySpace? Remember keyboards on phones before touch displays? Save yourself the time... Kindle wins. That is all.

Note: For reading in the dark or indoors - or technical books or PDFs.. keep the iPad!!

* You may be aware of the Kindle Fire. This e-reader has a display that is similar to a computer screen or an iPad screen. This type screen can produce beautiful images and text.. but you'll strain to read them outdoors.

** This comment assumes you set your Kindle up to be part of a wireless network.

Impatient Me

2011-12-01T15:30:00.001-08:00

Amazon.com and the USPS are killing me right now!

Back Story: I recently ordered a Kindle for my birthday. Delivery time was estimated at between Dec 5 and Dec 10. I hate waiting that long.. but also hate to pay for shipping. Quite the dilemma.

Present Situation: The good news is that having ordered it on November 28th in the afternoon.. it actually shipped early the morning of Nov 29th (3 am). And, the delivery date was updated on my order to Dec 1! I was so excited to think I would actually get it this week instead of next.

Agonizing Progress: Amazon.com is amazing. It has the best ordering system and tracking system in the business. So, tracking the order to a snap. However... it is challenging my patience. You see......

The package left Arizona at 3 am Nov 29th and made it to Hayward, CA (about 20-25 miles away) at around 9:20pm the same day; meaning it took roughly 18 hours to go from Arizona to Hayward. It then sat in Hayward for 7 hours before being sent to Santa Clara. That's where I live!! It took another 7 hours minutes to arrive. That was yesterday at 11:46am.

In summary: It took around 32 hours total (18+7+7) to go from Phoenix Arizona to right down the street from me.

And now it has remained undelivered in Santa Clara... for over 27 hours.

This is killing me :)

Shopping Part II

2011-11-11T14:29:00.001-08:00

okay.. this story is just plain luck. there is an apparel brand called Fox Head Apparel. they are manufactured in Morgan Hill, CA. that's the city I work in .

i noticed they had decked out a local empty warehouse and were conducting warehouse sales over the weekends (F, Sa, Su) the last couple weeks and decided to drop in. they make boardshorts and i needed a pair for our upcoming trip. so, i stopped by at lunch to check it out.

i found a couple pairs of shorts and went to check out. let's just say the checkout person was a bit on the unskilled end of the worker spectrum. she totally botched ringing me up and somehow my shorts that were $19 and $22 after discount ended up being billed at almost $60 total.

i patiently waited for her to get her manager, undo the transaction... yada yada. she was very nervous that it was taking so long - but i just kept smiling and telling her not to worry about it.

well - when she went to ring them back up she looked at me and said how sorry she was for the delay and rang them up at $12 each for my inconvenience.

hahaha. too sweet! but this one was just luck ;)

How Men Shop

2011-11-11T13:45:00.001-08:00

Last weekend when we were returning from Disneyland we stopped and shopped for awhile at the Gilroy Outlet Shops. While the kids and Julie were shopping I went and gassed up (we needed it).. and returned to Julie at the Gap.

Julie was ready to check out so I did a quick swing around the store and found their polo shirts were discounted. I picked up 3. That's how guys shop... when they find something they like they buy multiple.

Unfortunately, guys rarely try stuff on, too. I found out after arriving home that the Gap sizes their polos kinda small. As a result, I needed to exchange them. So, since I work just up the street a few miles I went back to exchange them at lunch today.

Except - when I got there I found out they had reduced the shirts by ANOTHER 20%. So, instead of exchanging them - I returned them (to get the higher return value). Then, I went and scarfed up all the colors I thought I would wear - since they were only $8.10 per! Hahaha. Yep, I bought 8 shirts. That's how guys shop. And - between returning the 3 I had bought previously and purchasing the 8 new ones.. it only cost me $29 more. Too funny.

Okay - back to work - I took a long lunch ;)

Disneyland!

2011-11-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

Last year when Julie (Logan) Winslow got married we got tickets to visit Disneyland the day afterwards (she was married just down the street). Well - what we didn't plan for was the torrential downpour that would accompany the weekend - washing out of trip.

The pre-paid tickets were good for a year, so as the Winslow's first anniversary approached it was time to get back to Disneyland for a visit. So, we loaded Jon and Rachel, Hannah and Eric and Julie and I and headed off.

Here we are arriving Saturday morning!

Hannah just had to have this sequined set of mouse ears. Doesn't she look like she's having fun?

We've never been to California Adventure Land - but we got park hopper passes and were off to that side of the park in the afternoon. One of the rides the kids and Julie tried was California Screamer. And a screamer it was! The rides takes off like a aircraft leaving a aircraft carrier. This is a picture taken about 1 second into the ride. Look at Julie!! Hahaha!

Here's Eric trying his best to free Excalibur. A nice try.

It wouldn't be a Henderson vacation without a jumping picture... now would it?

Here's the kids getting ready to go on Space Mountain. Yep, Julie and I too!

Hannah just loves visiting the Princess Fantasy Faire to hang with her sisters. Here she is with Julie and Rachel and Eric as well as Mulan, Ariel and Belle.

Jon and Rachel stopped to get their picture taken with a couple of the Car's stars.

Rachel as a wookie? Hannah and Eric waiting to get on the Star Wars tour.

Interestingly, the day we went they were taping their Disney Christmas Day Parade for broadcast Christmas morning. Because you're supposed to believe it is actually a live event - they had to tape in during the morning. Saturday it was. So, look for us on TV. ok?

All in all it was a great day!

Connecting the Dots

2011-10-17T10:58:00.001-07:00

I recently read an article about Steve Jobs in our local newspaper. The article was a reprint of a graduation commencement address he gave at a college. Buried deep within the text of that address was a thought that resonates deep within me. Steve made the point that it requires perspective to ‘connect the dots’ in life. I think his specific statement was that you can’t connect the lines looking forward, into the future. You can only connect the dots of your life when you look back and see how life’s events have fit together into the whole.

I am not aware if Steve was a particularly religious man. But, I think his comments mimic the experience of a believer in living a life of faith.

The older I get the more I have come to appreciate this perspective. Perhaps the only small tweak I would add to this idea is that when you take enough time to look back you start to discover the big picture of your life and can almost discern the shapes and sizes of the remaining pieces. Or at least we think we can.

Thanksgiving is a time for retrospection; for surveying the past and giving thanks. It’s fast coming upon us again. I am particularly looking forward to the upcoming Thanksgiving week because we are going to spend it with family and friends on vacation. I am already dreaming of all the fun and relaxing times we’ll have together.

That word ‘together’ carries more weight the older I get. I’ve now been together with Julie and her family much longer than I was not-together with her. I’ve now maintained lifetime friendships in which I’ve been together far longer than not-together. I’ve now approached life together with my children for longer than our being not-together (at least with Joel). This aspect of remaining in community for long periods of time carries more weight in my thinking now. When you decide to continue in relationship you have decided to be known by people. It is difficult to maintain a charade for years. Decades. It just isn’t possible. Your failures will become known. Your shortcomings will emerge. Those things you simply wish people didn’t know about you will become known and remembered. You will be exposed for who you are.

And then this glorious truth emerges that can only be found from prolonged togetherness. You realize at some point that you are accepted. This acceptance is a true acceptance; not one born of lack of knowlege or a sense of tolerance. Not one due to deception and hiding of flaws. Instead, this is the acceptance that accompanies being known – flaws and all.

This is a God Thing. Acceptance is a two part deal. There’s the part where acceptance is offered by someone. And, there’s the part where you have to accept it. Acceptance is as much about our ability to receive it as it is about whoever is willing to offer it. Interestingly, it seems much easier to accept when we practice offering it to others. By giving acceptance to someone we recognize has flaws just like us – we practice the thought process that allows us to forgive ourselves our flaws and receive acceptance from others.

Now, my family and friends have far fewer and less severe flaws than I do – so I’ve not gotten as much practice giving as receiving. But, I’ve at least had enough to be extremely thankful to God for opportunities to experience and share togetherness. And, I’ve given and received enough acceptance to know how much God has to offer to me to cover my sins. It truly is an awe inspiring thought.

You see, when you look back – the dots you connect are not all the dirt paths and smooth roads of our own making. Instead, you see the chasms that required God’s incredible bridge between sin and forgiveness to make the dots of our paths connect.

Born in Ireland - by Joel Henderson

2011-09-28T13:01:00.001-07:00

It all started with an innocent-enough suggestion from my friend Zac, “You should get a hurling jersey from your ancestral county.” You see, over the last few months Zac and I have been playing hurley together on our lunch breaks, a sort of field game played almost exclusively in Ireland. It is generally held as the most fast-paced field sport in the world, and each county in Ireland has a team that competes at the national level. The loyalty and pride each county feels for its team can be closely compared to the feelings people have for the teams representing their college alma mater. Zac has a jersey from Cork, the county his family was from in Ireland. His suggestion to get a jersey of my own appealed to my deeper yearnings on a variety of levels.

First, I love to shop. I love buying things, then waiting for them to come in the mail (which I, coincidentally, also love to check everyday). Second, his suggestion came right around the time of my birthday, so I was already in a festive mood and ready to treat myself to something special. And thirdly, it was a very sensible suggestion, the sort of natural thing you do when you’ve been hurling with a friend for some time. There was just one problem: I had no idea what my ancestral county is.

I’ve known for some time now that I have Irish ancestors. In fact, rather ironically, I first learned of my Irish ancestry while studying abroad in Ireland. The green blood in my family comes from a chap named Joseph Austin, my great, great, great, great grandfather, and his wife, Maggie (Megaw) Austin. I even did a little digging into the Austin family when I got back to the states, enough to at least satisfy my need for solid proof that I did have Irish roots.

But Zac’s suggestion took the situation to a whole new level. Not only did I need proof they came from Ireland, I needed proof of where in Ireland they came from. Up to the present time I hadn’t found any such facts, so the hunt was on. I wanted that jersey, and more than that I wanted it to be legit.

I started where I had originally left off several years ago: the internet. I had been using the Ancestry.com subscription we had at work, but it’s amazing what you can find just by typing a few words like “Joseph Austin 1850” into Google. Genealogy research has been made astronomically easier by the internet. Within minutes I had found a random page by some anonymous person that listed the whole Austin family history back through Joseph’s parents and down through his grandchildren. But everywhere I looked the phrase “born in Ireland” disappointing me with its lack of specificity. Yes, I know he was born in Ireland. It’s a big island. The answer I’m looking for is where in Ireland.

Then I remembered I had been sent several scans of some family letters that were addressed to Maggie (Megaw) Austin from her sisters who lived in Ireland. I went through and transcribed these letters, and through the process got my first real taste of the most rewarding part of genealogy research: glimpses into the real lives of the people that made our family who and what it is today. It was a blast transcribing these letters. So often you read about huge events in history like WWI and the flu pandemic that followed, but it wasn’t until I read about one of my ancestors’ sons getting killed instantly by a mortar shell to the head that the macrocosm and the microcosm connected.

But mortars and the price of potatoes circ. 1919 aside, these letters revealed the first legitimate lead in my hunt. Each letter had the address of the sender at the beginning, and returning to Google I found two very tiny villages bordering two counties. Literally, the villages were no more than 10 miles apart, and right down the center was the county line between Monaghan and Armaugh. I was faced with a difficult decision, since I had two equally legitimate connections to these counties, so I did the sensible thing: I compared the jersey colors of each county, and finding that Armaugh’s jersey is orange and Monaghan’s is blue I easily decided my ancestral county as far as the Megaw side was concerned was Monaghan (blue happens to be my favorite color).

But I was still left with the mystery of the Austin side, and thus the hunt continued. I returned to the website I had found listing the whole Austin family history, and found that Joseph and Maggie were buried at Bennett Cemetery in Chester Township, Ottawa County, Michigan (sound familiar). Several Google searches later I found the Township Clerk responsible for the cemetery. I also found the genealogy society for Western Michigan and the vital records office for Michigan, so I barraged the western half of the Wolverine state with an onslaught of emails and sat patiently waiting for replies. And when I say patiently, I mean checking my email every 20 minutes for three straight days.

My first response was from the Western Michigan Genealogy Society, which advised me of their obituary database for the Grand Rapids Herald and Press dating back through the late 1800s. “Perfect,” I said to myself, “maybe I can find an obituary for Joseph that says what county he was born in.” Mercy of mercies I found a reference to one, but I did not want to pay the $5 per article fee the WMGS charges for their time and effort to send me a copy. The genealogy world is fraught with organizations that will charge you for easy access to historical records. Do not be lulled into submission; information can usually be found for free, you just have to be creative and know where to look. I opted to go straight to the source and phoned up the Grand Rapids Public Library where the microfilm reels of the Herald and Press are housed. A very helpful girl in the local history department found the obit straight away, and was even so kind as to scan and email me a copy for free. However, I was again confronted by the “born in Ireland” tag line, which at this point was becoming my mortal enemy.

But I pressed on. When embarking on the adventure of genealogy research, you have to keep pressing your advantage whenever you find even the slightest new clue. The obit mentioned the funeral home Joseph had been interred at (they’re still around in Sparta, just a different name), so I Googled them too and was quickly on the line with a lady who was bursting with the helpful attitude. She said she would go “down to the basement” to see what she could find in their files, which struck me as about as sound an idea as there ever was one. Leaving my address with her, I waited patiently for her to mail me anything she could find.

I also heard back from the Township Clerk, who emailed me a copy of the burial license for Joseph. This document gave me an exact date of death for Joseph, as well as a place of death and the cause of death: hypostatic congestion of the lungs (pneumonia for us lay people). But again, just a “born in Ireland” mention. I was beginning to feel like a homicide detective in reverse. The circumstances of Joseph’s death were quite clear and well-known, but I was trying to figure out the circumstances that lead to his birth.

After all this effort, however, I started to realize my search for Joseph Austin’s birthplace in Ireland might be hindered by the fact that he was born in Ireland but then quickly whisked off to America at the age of 6 months. Not much time to leave his mark on the Emerald Isle. So I started hunting up information on his older siblings that were also born in Ireland.

Thus I returned once again to that Austin family history webpage and acquired the name Henry Austin, born 1847 in Ireland. By this time I had found another website called Seeking Michigan, where one can find death certificates for people who died before 1920. Luckily, the source said Henry had died in 1919, so I typed in his name and hit search, not prepared for what I would find.

You see, apparently there were a lot of Henry Austin’s running around those parts of Michigan back then, and here I learned another valuable genealogy research lesson: take anonymous online sources with a grain (or two or twenty) of salt. This original source had listed Joseph’s brother as Henry J Austin, but that was actually Joseph’s cousin, also born in 1847, only he was born in Michigan. Joseph’s brother’s name was Henry F Austin, and he actually died in 1914. Henry J Austin was the one who died in 1919. Their uncle’s name was also Henry Austin. And they all lived in Chester Township, Ottawa County, Michigan. Seriously?

And, while wading through that mess, I ran across another shocking fact. On Henry F Austin’s death certificate it listed his parent’s names, Thomas and Sarah. I knew that already from the research I had done on Joseph. But what I didn’t know was Sarah’s maiden name, which happened to be Megaw (sound familiar?). The same maiden name of Joseph’s wife Maggie, my great, great, great, great, grandmother! Perhaps that explains how two random people from Ireland who immigrated to America 20-someodd years apart from each other ended up meeting and getting married in C.T., Ottawa, MI. It’s speculation, of course, but without any hard facts it’s a plausible story that Maggie came over to visit her relative Sarah (possibly a distant aunt) and met Joseph, all young and strapping and totally sunburned from being a farmer out in the field with the sun beating down on his fair Irish skin.

Unfortunately, all of these leads dead-ended (literally and figuratively). To this day the Austin connection to Ireland remains a mystery. But while my original goal was a definitive answer, the journey turned out to be way better. How else would I have figured out the Sarah/Maggie Megaw connection, or laughed at the endless iterations of Henry Austin, or just recently (in an article sent to me by the funeral home in Sparta) learned that on their way over to America, amidst the hustle and bustle of traveling internationally in 1850, Thomas and Sarah accidentally forgot one of their children in Ireland and had to wait 2 months for the next boat to arrive with the missing youngster on it. How can a Monaghan jersey compare to a juicy tidbit of family history like that!

If you’re interested in any additional information on these our Irish ancestors, please let me know and I’ll be happy to send you what I have (for a nominal fee, of course…just kidding). Or, if you yourself have some clue or piece of information you think might help me locate an answer to my question, please let me know. Any little bit helps when questing for genealogical treasure.

TH2 Visit

2011-08-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

Julie and I had the pleasure, last weekend, of visiting Joel, Carissa and Ryan in Salem. It had been since mid-May since we had seen them... so we were eager to get up there and spend a couple of days together.

We discussed all sorts of possibilities for what we could do while we were up there and one of the ideas that stuck was going berry picking. Carissa loves to pick and freeze (as well as can) fruit during the summer. Of course, Julie and I are old pros from our childhood days. So, Friday morning we were off to the fields for some fruit!

The first farm we went to (for raspberries) we generously described as 'sketchy' :) Our hand drawn map to the berry location included us finding a walnut tree and a fence. That sort of thing.

Once we found the picking location (try #3) we had a great time in the bushes.

Ryan was a real trooper. He love wandering around. But, the bushes are a bit prickly so he had to be careful.

One of the cool sights we saw while we were picking was this bird's nest nestled into the branches of one of the raspberry bushes. There are about 6-8 babies inside there. Check out #3 calling for security as we invaded his bedroom.

Joel was enjoying the picking as well.

Between locations we stopped in a little town outside Salem for lunch. When we were leaving for some blueberry picking we noticed there were some deer in the sideyard of one of the houses. I jumped out of the car with my camera and snapped a couple pictures as Mr. Deer and a couple of his kids beat a retreat into the backyard.

Next we were off to blueberry and cherry picking at a second self-pick farm. This particular farm was a beautiful, well maintained farm location atop a hill overlooking parts of the Willamette Valley. It was a gorgeous location to spend an afternoon.

Here's Joel and Carissa hard at work in the fields.

Here's Joel finding the perfect blueberry. Sorry, Jon, you couldn't be there. You would have loved it ;)

We picked almost a complete flat of blueberries while Julie got to play with Ryan (that's why you didn't see any pictures of her pickin!). The results: Yummy!

Saturday Joel and Carissa wanted to take in the latest Harry Potter movie so Grandma and Grandpa got to take Ryan to his favorite park to play for a couple hours! Sweet!

We've never been to the park with him, so it was fun to explore the different stuff there and see Ryan's reaction to it. For instance, he *really* liked the swings. He not only loved hanging on and being pushed back and forth - but he loved having me catch his feet and hold him for a couple seconds before releasing him to keep going. He giggled so much.

He also loved the little tunnels and climbing aparatus!

And he absolutely has a blast with steering wheels! He bee-lined it straight for these and had a blast pretending he was a Nascar driver.

However, he wasn't as sure about the water features. You see, they go on and off at random times. So, it is easy to get shot with a blast of cold water when you are least expecting it. Tremendous fun if you are 4 or 5 years old. Those kids were squeeling and having a blast. But, Ryan was a bit more tentative ;) I think he will grow in love for this one over the years.

He did like the green fence!

Here's a couple random pictures I took at the dining room table.

We had a great time visiting. It's fun and rewarding to see TH2 growing and thriving.

Can't wait to go back!

Cabela's

2011-08-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

I have finally been to Cabela's! They recently opened a new store nearby to Eugene, Oregon. It's just off Highway 5 on our way to Salem. It was too good an opportunity to pass up. I had to see what the Buckners have been raving about for years.

My initial impressions were very favorable. You gotta love a store that assumes you may be packin'.

And once we were inside I could see what all the fuss is about. I mean, they definitely tell it how it is. No pretending like there is no death in the animal kingdom. If you're going to have a stuffed polar bear on display you might as well include it's lunch as well. Poor little seal.

And all the other displays were just as realistic. I can definitely see what the attraction is.

And as for products - they are amazing. So many terrific items including this heavy duty, ROUND, pie iron Julie picked up. Can't wait to use it.

Can't wait to return!

Tonight in Santa Clara

2011-07-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

I finished the book I've been reading the other day so when I went out for a walk tonight I grabbed my camera in hopes of finding something to shoot. Here's my walk in chronological order. Santa Clara did not disappoint.

Beside my driveway the Agapanthas are blooming and beautiful.

Around the corner is this beautiful tree. I'm not exactly sure what type of tree it is - but it explodes for a couple weeks a year with these gorgeous purple bouquets!

As I approached the Central Park gazebo I started hearing some music blaring from the speakers. I went to investigate and found a crowd had gathered to enjoy some ethnic entertainment.

In this case.. it was belly dancers!

Here's a possible future performer getting in some practice.

There were also some beautiful animals along the way. Check out this greyhound enjoying the performance with his owner.

As I was walking away from the gazebo I saw this couple out for a walk. Check out the man's left shoulder.

When I got a little closer I realized he didn't have just one bird on his shoulder - but two. Check out the little guy on his right side. That's him.

After leaving the park I headed back home. I passed this lonely swing in the front yard of one of our neighbors; just waiting for tomorrow and more fun.

And as I came round the corner for the home stretch I snapped these. The palm trees were hanging on to the last bit of light while swaying in the breeze.

Santa Clara on a Monday night. Can't hardly wait to go walking tomorrow night.

Hannah's Pad

2011-07-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

We're so proud of Hannah as she has graduated and is transitioning into the next phase of her life. One step along that transition was to move into a house in San Jose with friends. And, yikes, pay rent!

The girls are combining free craigslist.com and friend's furniture - with some of their very own first purchases. We had great fun going shopping with Hannah at IKEA a week or so ago where she bought a bed frame and some decorations for her new room.

After utilizing my LEGO skills (thanks Joel!) we had the frame together and her mattress setup! Here's Hannah modeling.

Next Hannah went to work setting up her nightstand (a craigslist feeby!). Check out her new light and decorations. She is developing a great little decorator eye.

Add a new, color coordinated carpet.. and you're in great shape.

Yeah, it looks good Hannah! Congrats and enjoy your new pad!

Julie the Rock Star

2011-07-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

Last Friday Julie was invited to provide a presentation at Bayshore Christian Ministries. BCM serves underprivileged East Palo Alto youths in a variety of ways including a Summer program. One aspect of this program is to have guest speakers expose the children to a wide variety of vocational opportunities. Julie was asked to come in and talk about life as an Animal Technician.

I can tell you that she was a bit intimidated as she prepared; although I wasn't worried in the least. I mean, kids and animals? Come on. No sweat. Her angst was driven in part by knowing she would be sharing the day with a presentation by the Fire Department. The funny thing was that as soon as the fire fighter saw Julie traipsing in a bunch of animals into the building she said to Julie "ahh! you have animals!! all i've got is a 20 minute canned video about making an escape plan. I'm dead!".

In actuality, Julie did a great job of preparing and was a natural in front of the kids. The kids came in two groups; one hour each. Julie brought five animals with her and started her presentation by showing the kids the different animals she brought and telling them a little bit about each. First up was a bearded dragon with a missing foot and tail section.

Next was Summer (our old Cockatiel) followed closely by a big, fat rabbit and a snake.

And of course we brought Indy - who was the hit of the show! The kids couldn't get enough of her. Indy was having fun... but she was so exhausted by the end of the presentations she slept all the way home in the car.

Julie also took in a bunch of her 'tools of the trade' to show the kids. Any quess as to what Julie considers her most valuable tool at work? Please leave your guess as a comment and Julie will let you know the correct answer!

After the informal presentation she let the kids do one of three stations. The first was to touch and feel the animals that she had brought. I think the snake (thank you Brandon!) was the biggest hit. The line was certainly long for that one.

She also brought along some xrays and a viewer. The xrays ranged from a big snake to a dog with 8 puppies in her belly. Some of the kids were entirely mesmerized by the different animals. Some of the images were of 'stuff gone wrong'; a frog that ate pebbles and broken bones! Here's a few of the kids checking out a surgically repaired broken leg.

The other station was a series of foods that various animals eat. There was even a worksheet where the kids could guess which animals ate which foods. Clever. Then, Julie walked them through the various foods and gave the the right answers. Needless to say, the snake was the one that ate the frozen mice babies ;)

For all her nervousness Julie did an amazing job. She was a real rock star. As we were heading out the door I could hear the fire fighter muttering.. "no fair! she had animals!".

Father's Day Inter-league Baseball Outing

2011-06-19T18:02:00.000-07:00

Inter-league baseball is special in the Bay Area because the Giants (National League) and A's (American League) are right in our backyard. And Father's Day weekend makes it all the more fun to participate. So, you can imaging how excited I was to hear I was getting an outing for Father's Day. Niiicccceeeee!

This time the game was in Oakland at the Coliseum - home of the 6 time world champion A's.

Julie and I arrived a bit early - so we had a few minutes to check out the stadium. I've been there before - but I can't actually remember going to a baseball game at the Coliseum. So, we walked around the facility.

When we got back to our seats - Hannah and Eric were there! Surprise! A very happy one.

Check this lady out. Unfortunately, I didn't get her name. But, she turned 100 recently - and they honored her with a ride around the stadium and an opportunity to throw out the first pitch. This is her underhanding a sweet throw into the catcher. I hope Julie is that cool when she gets to 100.

Baseball is about the game and the food ;) So, once the game was underway Julie and Hannah set off to get us some refreshments. Here she is coming back to our seats with the mother load!

It was beautiful night for baseball.

Except - by the end of the game we were all beating our heads against the wall - much like Pablo Sandoval below.

A final picture. Hannah was totally jealous of this kid's glasses. They are sweet! Maybe a future birthday present ?!?

Family Update via Karen and Andy's Wedding!

2011-06-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't yet communicated with the bride and groom - and don't like my chances for the next few days :).

So, I'm not going to post any pictures of the bride and groom. But, we here at Team Henderson do want to officially congratulate Kandy (Karen + Andy) on their sweet wedding. We had a blast.

Additionally, we can take advantage of their delightful soiree last Sunday to offer up a little family update.

Did we mention that Hannah's (finally!) back in California? Well, after having trekked across Europe and most recently the heartland of America with Eric she (and Eric) arrived back home last Friday. Clearly, my beautiful daughter is no worse for the wear! And mom is soooo glad to have her back.

Here's a picture of the usual suspects. It's rewarding to look at a picture like this and realize that we have been so blessed in our lives. This picture is a fitting juxtaposition of lifelong friends, family and the new. We take none of them for granted.

And speaking of new ... I don't think we've had a picture of Julie and Evan and baby James yet. I guess this one should be titled 'introducing baby bump James Winslow'.

Yeah, yeah, yeah - I know it seems like 2010/11 was/is all about the Logans. After all, Julie and Evan got married last December, Tim and Barbara in March and now Karen and Andy in June. Sadly, I think we've plumb run out of Logans to get married.. but let's just say.. they still look like they're all having fun.

Should we call these 'agony and ecstasy? Or just super cute?

Where will life take us next?

Is it Microsoft's Fault?

2011-06-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Our weather in California is driving us nuts. Cold and rainy. in June? Who's to blame?

Is Micro$oft in charge of the seasons in California?

INSTALLING SUMMER IN CALIFORNIA.....

███████████████░░░░░░░░░░░░░░ 44% DONE.

Install delayed....please wait.
Installation failed.
Please try again.
404 error: Season not found. Season "SUMMER IN CALIFORNIA" cannot be located.
The season you are looking for might have been removed, had its name changed, or is temporarily unavailable.
Please try again.

Motivation

2011-05-31T16:04:00.001-07:00

There are periods of time in my life when, I’m almost ashamed to admit, my prime motivation is just to keep going. Keep moving forward. To simply get to the other side of a set of obstacles that clutter my days. My mindset becomes one of “ok, over the next ABC period of time I have to do/accomplish X, Y and Z. Let’s just get through this”.

In fact, these are realistic thoughts. Sometimes living and functioning in community presents a de rigueur rhythm that calls us to trade living our lives for living for others. Sacrificial love makes demands at times. Life in a fallen world makes demands at times. My challenge is to not allow these insipid demands to totally dull my zest for life.

I feel like I’m coming out of one of those ABC->XYZ periods of life and am actually starting to get my motivational juices flowing again. It feels good.

Memorable Memorial Day Walk

2011-05-31T10:38:00.000-07:00

After eating our way through much of this long weekend, Julie sat down with her Bay Area Hiking Trails book Sunday evening to find a way to burn off a few calories. Finally, she stumbled upon hike #29 - Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Reserve.

The location is along Skyline Boulevard which is at the ridgeline of the Santa Cruz mountain range that separates Silicon Valley from the Pacific Ocean. In the picture below, that's Half Moon Bay (and the ocean) in the background.

You can see from the picture that (again) it was an overcast day. I'm starting to think we live in the Pacific Northwest with all these overcast and windy days we are experiencing. However, we came to find out that it was a pleasant temperature for a 10 mile hike.

The Reserve is known for its tall coastal redwood trees. And, as it turns out - where there are redwoods there are pacific banana slugs. These beauties are the second-largest species of terrestrial slugs in the world and have been observed to motate at a maximum speed of around 6 inches per minute. I'll believe that when I see it. I think a much more reliable speed reading is about 6 inches an HOUR. Maybe.

That 'hole' in the side of their head is the intake manifold for their single lung. Come to think of it, it does kind of look like one nostril.

The trail looked like a big V in elevation. We started by plunging down from the top of Skyline into the gulches of the park. Each downward step we took lodged in our mind as a step we would eventually have to take uphill! The middle section of the hike meanders up and down through the redwoods and oaks providing ample shade (from the mostly non-existent sun). The trail ends with a difficult 2 miles of near straight uphill climbing covering about 1600' of elevation. It was good to have our friends the Scotts along for the hike - because then there were enough people to take turns coming up with excuses to stop and take a break while we were trudging our way back to the top.

As with every epic adventure - we got though the tough times by a) calculating how many calories we MUST be burning and b) fantasizing about what those burned calories meant we could eat if we lived through it. So, after we finished it was off to The Boardwalk for pizza, soda and some reminiscing. Okay.. #29 is off the bucket list. Moving on ;)

Hannah's Big Day!

2011-05-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

Today was Hannah's day. We are proud to tell you that she received her BS in Business Administration from the University of California Berkeley Haas Business School. The celebrating started early this morning with Julie gifting Hannah with a lei.

The graduation occurred in the Greek Theater at the campus. It was very emotional seeing Hannah walk in during the processional.

She looked jubilant as she walked in.

Ryan got a special call out for showing up in his Cal polo shirt.

Here's a better picture of the venue.

After wonderful speeches honoring the graduates - it was time to receive her diploma. With tears in our eyes we proudly watched as Hannah was honored.

And, if you know Hannah - you know there is going to be a celebration!

Here she is sitting between her friends Calvin and Graeme in the student section. Don't you love Calvin's outfit?

That's Hannah's cap sailing through the air. Nailed the picture.

After the festivities it was time for a reception at the business school. It was great to see Maggie again (it's been months!) and Calvin.

And we got a bit of a tour of the facilities. FINALLY.. here it is folks. A picture of Hannah in a classroom during college! Hahaha.

Julie and I are immensely proud of the young woman Hannah has become during her college years. We are so thankful to God for holding her in His hand throughout this journey. We're thankful for the friends that she developed and maintained through her years at Berkeley that form a solid foundation for her future. And we are thankful to God for the grand odyssey that God entrusted to us when he brought a little red-headed ball of joy into our lives almost 22 years ago.

We are all excited for her future. And we are thankful for those family members that were able to be here in person to witness her graduation and cheer her on.

And we are thankful for the Godly influence and support of our family members, through the generations, that have directly led her to this moment.

Our prayer, our wish for Hannah is that God would continue to be an important part of her life and that He might guide her through a most adventuresome, rewarding and meaningful life.

Ritter Sport

2011-05-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Our first full day in Berlin Hannah took us on a bicycle tour of the city. An important destination within the city is the Ritter Sport chocolate store. If you've ever been to a frozen yogurt store that allows you to pick your yogurt and toppings - you would immediately fall in love with Ritter Sport.

Ordering is easy. First you check out all the delicious ingredients you can add to your chocolate bar.

Then, the spectacular chocolate maiden puts them into a little plastic bowl. Next, they take it to the magical chocolate fountain; milk chocolate or dark and fill it up. Then, the mixture is scooped into the candy bar mold.

Once the mold is filled and packed - it looks like this. The next step is to put it into a refrigerator for 30 minutes or so to cool.

During the 30 minutes we toured the 'factory' - learning all about the making of chocolate. We ended at the picture wall and snapped this dandy family picture.

So, what did I get? Dark chocolate. Raspberry chips. And roasted almonds. Here's the finished product. Stunningly good.

It was hard to wait to open it until we got back to America. It was harder to share ;)

The Banana Queen!

2011-05-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

We've been playing a lot of cards with family in town for Hannah's graduation. Last night we played a couple games of prediction. The second game winner was Linda! Having achieved that incredible feat she immediately asked "do I get a trophy?". "You bet", I replied as I jumped up to make one.

Here it is. Linda's Prediction Trophy! It reads "U R The Winner" - and indeed she was.

We love you Linda!

First In!

2011-05-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Joel who came all the way from Oregon to nail down 'First In' honors at the pool this year. And he also won special honors for his very stylish entry. Clearly a force to be reckoned with!

Well done Joel!

The Flying Henderlogans

2011-05-14T18:45:00.000-07:00

Last Christmas I gave Joel and Jon (Logan) certificates for indoor skydiving lessons and a couple of flights at iFly. Unfortunately, we weren't able to schedule flights while everyone was in town for Christmas.

Hannah's graduation was a great opportunity to get everyone together and flying. So, I got her an appointment as well and off we went. Jon and Joel were ready to go!

Here's Hannah practicing her upside down flying. (or I flipped the picture upside down.. hmmm..)

We started with some flight training.. (by watching a 3 minute video). In it, they explain that we are going to be flying in wind produced by 4 250 HP fans. Pretty sweet. Then, off we went to get our gear on.

Then, it was our turn. We nominated Hannah to fly first because this is her special, graduation weekend. Here she is flying next to the instructor.

Joel absolutely loved it - as you can see by the expression on his face ;)

Here's Hannah on her second flight. Impressive! She did so great the instructor was basically just getting out of her way and letting her fly.

Ok.. I went too. I know, I look ridiculous - but it was a lot of fun. It's hard to look good when you've got 120 MPH find in your face ;)

This is Joel's form. It's pretty awesome. You want to have your arms up near your head and a natural arch in your bag. He did great.

And the instructor makes sure you're in good form.

Jon did the best. He was so stable during flight the instructor started teaching him how to spin left and right. Show off ;)

That's right... we ALL graduated. Flippin Sweet!!!

Finished

2011-05-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot to mention that we finished the bathroom project last week; just in time to free up the guest bathroom for our visitors to Hannah's graduation this week.

It's hard to get a good picture of such a small room. I don't have lens with sufficient wide angle to nail it - so I tried with Julie's camera this morning. The results were mediocre - but you get the picture.

We love the dark vanity and matching mirror - and the solid surface vanity top and matching shower walls turned out great.

A critical design decision for the bathroom was low maintenance. We went with solid surface walls to get rid of those grout lines we'd need to be cleaning when we're 70. And, there won't be any failed grout lines letting water through the walls and popping tiles off!

I'd discuss the floor - but Joanne would laugh at my commentary. So, let me just say we've received some nice compliments that the floor looks good.

It was bittersweet finishing this project as this was the last room in the house we renovated. I guess it's time to focus on the backyard now. Julie already told me I'm going to have to slate the patio sometime :)

Let's Get It Started

2011-05-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes if you don't take the first step - you never get anywhere. That's a lesson I learned related to personal fitness.. but it applies to vacation blogging as well. Despite our hectic schedule - it's time to start fitting in some rememberances before my drug addled brain drops them from memory.

We arrived in Berlin to meet Hannah on the Friday before Easter. Her visit in Germany has been the longest time period we've been separated from her and both Julie and I were relieved to see how well she was doing. She looked fantastic. Once we tracked down our bags we immediately left the airport and started learning the Berlin public transporation sysem; one which Hannah had perfected.

As we were heading towards Hannah's apartment and a waiting dinner reservation - I noticed that Berlin had already honored her with a road sign. Not shocking if you know Hannah. But, I did take the time to photograph her with it.

Europe clearly has a longer history that America. Duh. You can see that in the architecture all around you. The place oozes permanence. Longevity. You think the people there would make a note of it.

You can imagine my surprise, then, when on our very first Bahn (train) ride to Hannah's place I spied this tattoo on the gentleman directly in front of me. That's a cassette tape for those of you who don't recognize it. Think of it as your iPod - except the 'portable' player required 8 'D' batteries and the tape itself stored about 10 songs.

This is a cautionary tale for you folks that might be thinking about tat'ing up - and something that the architects and craftspeople of Europe learned over the centuries. Pick enduring images and designs.

Here's a good example. This is magnificent bauble we saw at one of the many palaces we visited while in Germany. It has definitely stood the test of time; remaining breathtaking centuries later.

Additionally, this gorgeous necklace highlights another important insight into our journey through Germany and the Czech Republic. Although the big picture, alone, is stunning (as is the necklace) - inspecting the details leads to unimaginable delight.

For instance - the picture below is a more detailed look at a section of the upper left area on the necklace. (I strongly encourage you to click on the image - and then zoom into the detail!) As you start to look past the large stones and focus on the detail of the setting you can't help but be impressed with the craftperson's attention to design and artistry. It's staggering. As is much of Germany.

More later....

Tax Day Tweets!

2011-04-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

anyone got a tax day tweet to share? let's here 'em!!

Tod: bathroom grout done... which means i don't have any excuses left... time to finish my taxes.

Tod: a week from now i get to see my beautiful daughter again! and eat schnitzel!

Tod: i got the best welcome home kiss you could imagine last night. looking forward to getting home tonight!

Making Progress

2011-04-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

I better stick to my day job; I'm way too slow to make money working in the building trades.

We are making progress, however. Here's a couple pictures of our bathroom remodel. We've got the walls back together and the shower pan in. We also installed the vanity (it looks great! - and yes, we have more knobs and pulls to install). With the pan and vanity in - it was time for the folks that did the solid surface walls and vanity top to do their install. Then it was on to the floor.

Julie picked a hexagon pattern marble tile that adds a lot of visual interest to the design. Her idea was to break up all the solid, straight lines in the room with a different shape. It's beautiful - but a bear to install. I won't bother you with all the details - but let's just say this project took up pretty much the entire weekend; most of it with me on my hands and knees. And I still have to grout between all those little tiles!

Wish us luck. We have to finish the floor. Install the shower doors. Do all the wood trim. Hang the mirror.... well, you get the picture. We should be done before Hannah returns and people start dropping in for Hannah's graduation.

At least that's the plan ;)

What's Hannah Been Up To

2011-03-28T14:59:00.000-07:00

A quick advertisement for Hannah's Blog! She must have bleeding fingers - because she made about 7 posts to it recently. If you haven't checked it out lately you are missing out. She's been to some interesting and beautiful places - and befriended some awesome people. And she makes every adventure unique through her writing.

Time to catch up? You can find her link over there on the left anytime... of for now click this link.

Hannah's Germany Website

Happy reading!

Laugh Out Loud

2011-03-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

This website is not for Granda Marian. Grandma, ignore the rest of this post. Linda, maybe you too ;)

But, if you want to laugh. out. loud. you have to check out this website: Damn You Auto Correct!
Perhaps it's just because I have an iPhone and it makes these types of 'helpful corrections' all the time for me.. but it just makes me laugh.

Sliders

2011-03-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

This is a story that demonstrates why having a creative wife works out for the man.

Julie, Joel, Carissa, Ryan and I went to a restaurant in Palo Alto when they were here at Christmastime called Sliders. We loved the variety and portion size.

Well, last night after hopping on the treadmill and then showering off I walk out to the kitchen and what has Julie prepared for me? Cheeseburger Sliders! She had found the little buns at Trader Joe's, seasoned the meat patties to perfection and served them in style.

They looked fantastic and smelled wonderful. I was so impressed with her presentation that I rushed to grab my camera and snap a picture.

So this is what I had for dinner last night! Jealous? :)

Quick and Dirty Education Expense Analysis

2011-03-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

For some reason this morning I was thinking alot about Hannah and her upcoming graduation from Berkeley. I am so proud of the woman she has become.

One memory that came to mind was one of Hannah's high school Economics class assignments. The assignment was to interview her parents about their attitudes about education. One question she had to ask was 'do you (the parent) value education?'. My immediate response was to ask her 'what do you think our actions have said about our value of education?'. Julie and I have definitely put our time and money where our mouth is when it comes to education. We value it and we've tried to pass that value on to our kids. It has been a sacrifice and investment that has already paid huge dividends.

As Hannah nears graduation I can honestly say that I was happy to help pay UC Berkeley to teach and train her.

Of course, once my brain got started on it.. it began to wonder just what the total cost of her education was. You see, we pay student fees and housing - but that is only a portion of the revenues that Berkeley receives.

Here's what I learned in my 15 minutes of analysis:

The UC system educates approximately 234,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Berkeley has just over 36,000 or about 15.4% of the total students in the UC system (there are a total of 10 campuses).

The entire UC system receives $6.3 Billion from CA budget ($26,923 per student) which includes student fees + $3B taken from our general fund. General fund money comes from property taxes, our sales tithe, income taxes and the various and asundry other sources of state revenues (e.g., tickets).

California also pays out approximately $1.2B in student aid for higher education. Approximately 1/3rd goes to UC students; or about $400M. $400M/234,000 students works out to about $1,709/student.

Berkeley, itself, has an endowment of $2.6B. Those are funds donated to the university for specific and general funding uses. The endowment pays out roughly 4.75% of its funds each year. That means funding of around $124M in the most recent year. That works out to another $3,444 per student.

In summary, just from those sources (there are many others) - Berkeley receives at least $32,076 per student, per year ($26,923 + $1,709 + $3,444). It seems like all of California is putting their money where their mouth is. Wouldn't you say?

For Berkeley, with 36,000 students, that works out to $1.15B in annual revenue/funding.

You might wonder how many teaching staff Berkeley has. The answer is around 1,928. If you assume there is one staff (support) person for every professor (seems high.. but a good starting point) - that means that there are around 3,850 total employees at Berkeley. Let's say you paid each of those employees a salary of $125,000. Then add in additional compensation (vacation, sick time, pension, medical benefits) of another 40% of their base pay. That would make the average employee compensation $175K. That would produce a total payroll of $674M. There would still be about $481M for maintaining facilities, paying for utilities and all remaining non-employee expenses.

It makes you wonder what all the protesting is about.

Tim and Barbara

2011-03-21T23:42:00.000-07:00

Wow... this post is really, really late! So, I won't keep you waiting... here's the best picture Julie took ;) Does that look like a happy family or what?

It was an honor to be a groomsman in Tim's wedding. What a great opportunity to watch the ceremony up close and personal and to stand next to one of my best friends in the world as he started a new phase in his life. And it looks like Tim and Barbara were happy to get it started.

One of my favorite moments - amongst all the wonderful moments - was walking Grandma G in and out of the ceremony to her seat of honor. Here we are at the reception having a moment. During the rehearsal I was cracking up as I threatened to twirl her as we walked down the aisle and out of the sanctuary following the service. She was game during the rehearsal - and fast on her feet. But I was a perfect gentleman during the ceremony ;)

Congratulations to Tim and Barbara. I hope she knows that when she marries Tim she gets us in the package deal. Now how much would you pay??

Our Weird Weekend

2011-03-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

On the off chance you read only 1 sentence and then move on to your next internet adventure, I just have to start with this picture. I call it The Leaning Referee. It cracks me up.

The last thing Julie and I were thinking as we left Redding, Ca. on our way to Salem to visit Joel, Carissa and Ryan - was that we would get stuck in a blizzard. Well, as the intensity of the rain increased and the temperature dove - that's exactly what we were faced with midday Friday.

The snow was driving down and it was freezing so fast we ended up with big chunks of ice on our hood.

We think we got on the road just before they implemented a chain requirement. We had no chains. No warm clothes to deal with the cold in case we ended up stalled or in a ditch. And, we had gone only 10 miles in over an hour. With 110 miles more of mountains - we eventually had to rethink whether we could make it to Salem and back to California before Sunday night.

We decided against it after fishtailing a few times. It was time to turn around and head home. We called Joel and profusely apologized.. then sadly headed back towards sea level and out of the snow.

Michigan's club hockey team was playing the ACHA 2001 Division II Nationals in San Jose last week. So, as we were driving home we realized we could possibly make it to the semi-final game between Michigan and Michigan State. Out of the blizzard and into the freezer. I mean rink. Eric and his brother Kyle play for Michigan - so Julie was a true trooper and rooted for the Maize and Blue! This is Kyle.

Here's a moment of quiet contemplation for the Michigan goalie. I hope he enjoyed it because Michigan State played an excellent game and put constant pressure on our goal.

But Michigan put pressure on Michigan State's goalie as well.

However, in the end MSU prevailed. Sigh. This weekend just wasn't working out for us ;)

One of the saddest moments was meeting up with Eric after the game and seeing the pain and disappointment in his eyes from the outcome. In some ways it's great to have those emotions. Many people will never achieve the great results Michigan did and ever get in a position to lose such an important game. But it was hard to see and there really wasn't much to be said that could erase the feelings. We could just express our joy in being able to see him and his brother play in person. It was a real treat and we won't soon forget their play. They really did do great.

Then, it was time to go back home. Here's what our Saturday looked like. We lit a fire and watched March Madness as we moped about missing Joel and all of TH2. A weird weekend.

Last Room

2011-02-27T20:10:00.000-08:00

This is the last room you're going to have to read about us renovating! I can sense your relief already.

We're actually long past due in reworking our master bath. It was sooooo disgusting! I didn't even take a before picture. You can thank me later.

I give full credit to the folks that put the shower in that I just yanked out. They put that puppy in to last. But after applying a crowbar, hammer and liberal use of a sledge - it's gone.

Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, there's been some water damage to the floor. So, I'll have to figure that out next.

Now, while was in the bathroom spending hours in demolition - my gorgeous wife mowed the lawn. That's a job I usually do and it was looking like it needed to be done. I was so grateful when I heard the roar of that little two-stroke engine; with Julie behind the controls. How sweet is she!

Okay - more when we get a little further along.

Oscar Prep

2011-02-27T19:35:00.000-08:00

Julie and I are taking this years Oscars seriously. In a normal year, we would have watched hardly any of the highly nominated films. Not this year.

Julie signed us up for a special engagement, the Best Picture Showcase event, at the theater last weekend. Have you ever gone to the movies and received an entry pass? We did. Here's Julie modeling hers.

Last Saturday we saw, one right after the next, five of the 10 nominated best pictures of the year. We showed up at the theater at 11:00 for Toy Story 3 and were there until 10:00 or so as The Fighter ended. We sat in exactly the same seats for all the movies. What dedication! Here's Julie with the movie poster we received to commemorate our historic achievement.

We're really looking forward to watching the Oscars tonight. We might even know someone who wins!

Great Video Explanation of Planned Budget Cuts

2011-02-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

This is a 1 minute, simple video that puts into perspective the federal budget discussions that are ongoing. Highly recommended for all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yk_jToBbpWU

Whoa Brain! Whoa!!

2011-02-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

I readily admit that my brain works in strange ways at times. As it receives information it is constantly trying to make sense of what it is receiving. This trait sometimes gets in the way of enjoyment. For instance, I noticed that even though the characters in The Big Bang Theory walk up and down several floors of stairs on the show - then always walk by the exact same floor baseboards. I know. It bugs you too right?

Here's another example of this annoying habit my brain has of trying to keep things straight.

I was reading an article about West Bloomfield, Michigan teachers - as it relates to this whole deal in Wisconsin. The story started simply enough explaining the teachers had participated in a sickout. 40 teachers had called in sick. Here is the second paragraph - the one that distracted me. Does it surprise you too?

Superintendent JoAnn Andrees said that 41 high school teachers didn’t show up and that 36 of those teachers were not within a normal “pattern” of absences. Andrees said as many as a dozen teachers could be out on a typical day. The Michigan Department of Education said there are about 100 teachers at the high school as of 2009-10.

Ok.. here is what goes on in my head when I read these two sentences:

a) 41 teachers didn't show up
b) oh.. they have about 100 teachers - so about 40% or so didn't show up - hmmm. ok.
c) wait a second.. wait a second.. the 'normal pattern' is for as many as a dozen to be absent??
d) let's see .. that would mean 1/8 of the teachers being sick is relatively normal
e) that means these teachers take one sick day for every 8 days of work
f) that's 6 times the rate I acrrue sick time at!
f) what the heck is going on??
g) why isn't the crazy amount of sick time the point of the article?

This all happens in about 1/2 a second for me. And then the rest of the article is just .... blah blah blah. I'm distracted and disinterested at this point.

I truly wish, at times, that I could turn this 'feature' of my brain off at times. It really helps me in many areas of life. But - it certainly gets in the way at times. I certainly understand the adage: ignorance is bliss.

What Could You Accomplish in 20 Billion Hours?

2011-02-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

I want you to fantasize with me for just a couple minutes. Imagine you were given 20 Billion hours a year which you could use to accomplish anything you desire for society. What would you do? Almost anything seems possible doesn't it?

Would you like to give each and every person on the planet a relaxing, soul-invigorating 3 hour massage? You'd have the time.

What about providing free babysitting to each single mother on the planet so they could take a two week vacation? You could do it.

Want to beautify every city in America? There are only 30,000 or so cities. You'd have over 650,000 hours to clean up, plant gardens and paint murals in every single one.

In fact, it seems almost ridiculous to imagine that some amazing and fabulous things wouldn't be accomplished doesn't it?

I'd love to hear some of your ideas.

He Has Overcome

2011-02-14T10:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! On this day normally devoted to expressions of eros love - I want to share this story of brotherly love I found incredibly compelling. I hope it will in some way inspire you as it did me! Please take the time to watch this 5 minute video - and read the story.

Watch the YouTube Story Here

Gainesville State School has 14 players. They play every game on the road. Their record was 0-8. They've only scored twice. Their 14 players are teenagers who have been convicted of crimes ranging from drugs to assault to robbery. Most had families who had disowned them. They wore outdated, used shoulder pads and helmets

Faith Academy was 7-2. They had 70 players, 11 coaches, and the latest equipment.

Chris Hogan, the head coach at Faith Academy , knew the Gainesville team would have no fans and it would be no contest, so he thought, What if half of our fans and half of our cheerleaders, for one night only, cheered for the other team? He sent out an email to the faithful asking them to do just that. Here's the message I want you to send, Hogan wrote, "You're just as valuable as any other person on the planet."

Some folks were confused and thought he was nuts. One player said, "Coach, why are we doing this?" Hogan said, "Imagine you don't have a home life, no one to love you, no one pulling for you. Imagine that everyone pretty much had given up on you. Now, imagine what it would feel like and mean to you for hundreds of people to suddenly believe in you?"

The idea took root. On the night of the game, imagine the surprise of those 14 players when they took the field and there was a banner the cheerleaders had made for them to crash through. The visitors stands were full. The cheerleaders were leading cheers for them. The fans were calling them by their names. Isaiah, the quarterback-middle linebacker said, "I never in my life thought I would hear parents cheering to tackle and hit their kid. Most of the time, when we come out, people are afraid of us. You can see it in their eyes, but these people are yelling for us. They knew our names."

Faith Academy won the game, and after the game the teams gathered at the 50-yard line to pray. That's when Isaiah, the teenage convict-quarterback surprised everybody and asked if he could pray and he prayed, "Lord, I don't know what just happened so I dont know how or who to say thank you to, but I never knew there were so many people in the world who cared about us."

On the way back to the bus, under guard, each one of the players was handed a burger, fries, a coke, candy, a Bible, and an encouraging letter from the players from Faith Academy .

What an incredible act of Christian witness and kindness and goodness that was. Proverbs 11:17 says, Your own soul is nourished when you are kind. Proverbs 3:27 says, Do not withhold good when it is in your power to act.

Be kind to someone this week. Be kind to every person you meet. You might be amazed at what God will do with a simple act of kindness.

Funny Gall Bladder Story

2011-02-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

I meant to share this earlier while Julie was having her surgery. Before it gets too late - I'll do it now.

Several of our family and friends have been through gall bladder surgery and shared with Julie and I their stories. While they were all interesting and helpful, here's my favorite. This was sent to us by our friend Nancy Schlink (that's her with Julie baking in our kitchen):

.... I would add one thing to her instructions in case the doctors didn't specify.... tell her that she should not push a car after surgery! :) Why would I suggest that you say!?!?!? Let's just say I had to get re-stitched up the week after surgery and that wasn't exactly pleasant :) .... lesson learned.... :)

To which I replied "you needed instructions not to push a car? seriously??".
To which she replied:

well you know.... i'm not much for sitting around and i had to go back to classes up at UCD so i went ....and when my car broke down in the middle of the parking lot, i had to push it so i didn't get run into.... that was before the day of the cell phone remember, and yes i am that old! i have a pretty high tolerance for pain but literally busting my gut in the parking lot was not exactly something i'd like to do again :) i'm sure julie is smarter than me, but i just thought i'd throw my cautionary tale in for good measure :)

Winner!!

Watch out you crazy people!!

2011-02-01T14:37:00.000-08:00

You folks in Michigan - and Tim too - because he loves to grow tomatos in his back yard (you didn't hear it here).. might be interested in this one. In case you thought you had a right to plant a garden... or a crop... check out Wickard v. Filburn, 317 U.S. 111, 63 S. Ct. 82, 87 L. Ed. 122 (1942), which, until recently, was widely considered the most far-reaching expansion of Commerce Clause regulatory authority over intrastate activity.

At issue in Wickard were amendments to the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 that set acreage allotments for wheat farmers in an effort to control supply and avoid surpluses that could result in abnormally low wheat prices. The plaintiff in that case, Roscoe Filburn, owned a small farm on which he raised and harvested wheat, among other things. When he exceeded his allotment by 12 acres (which yielded 239 bushels of wheat), he was penalized under the statute. Although the intended [use] of the crop involved in the case was... “not intended in any part for commerce but wholly for consumption on the farm.”

So.. a farmer grew 239 bushels of wheat on his own property - for consumption completely on his own property. And he got fined for it. Why?? read on...

...Homegrown wheat “supplies a need of the man who grew it which would otherwise be reflected by purchases in the open market [and] in this sense competes with wheat in commerce”.

The farmer's crime? 'supplying his own need'; not buying something that someone could sell him. And so the federal government fined the farmer for employing his own skill, resources and time to grow his dastardly crop instead of going shopping.

You better start hiding your tomato plants Michigan ;)

Infirmary Report

2011-01-24T16:43:00.000-08:00

Julie went to the doctor this morning to be poked, prodded and inspected. Her surgeon is pleased with the progress she is making. Her incisions are healing nicely, her strength is good and she's eating well. She's been cleared to get back into her schedule at work (slowly) and do whatever activities she desires as long as she is careful.

At the same time I'd like to lodge a formal protest. I think going to that hospital to visit Julie infected me! It used to be that I rarely got sick - and I am usually very reluctant to let illness get the best of me. However, this one is really ticking me off ;) After 2 weekends of not getting much sleep due to gall bladder attacks - I was really looking forward to this last weekend and enjoying a couple wonderful nights of sleep next to my surgery recovering, drugged up wife. I thought I had it made in the shade.

However, on Friday I started to develop a 'nasal drip' (the nice term) which is exacerbated by laying down! The result? I am having a very difficult time sleeping again. It is unnerving to wake up drowning in your own 'nasal drip'.

I'm not sure just which patient it was that exposed me. Was it the woman with no legs in the ER? That lady was coughing up a lung next door! Or, was it the cleaning lady that was going from room to room cleaning waste baskets? That's who was infecting everyone on that episode of House. Honestly, I don't know - and I can't prove anything anyway.

I just know that I am really, really getting scared to try to sleep during the weekends.

Is this a turning 50 thing? That you actually want to sleep at night? Sheeeeesh!

Bye Bye GB

2011-01-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to report that Julie went through her gall bladder removal surgery with flying colors. She's home. Indy's in her lap. And she's doing well. Praise God for His goodness to us. We are very thankful.

Yesterday started with Julie arriving at the Outpatient Surgery center at 9:00am. After getting her into a gown and prepped it was time to hang out until surgery time. Dean was kind enough to come and visit during the wait and pray with us before it was time for transfer to the pre-op room.

Here's Julie in the pre-op room where she met her anesthesiologist. The two of them bonded immediately after Julie explained that she is an animal technician and routinely administers anesthesia to all sorts of animals. They immediately started talking shop; needle gauges and other stuff I don't know anything about. It was a good strategic move on Julie's part because she has really difficult veins to hit and this guy was as gentle as he could be with her.

Unfortunately, it took 4 sticks before he could find a workable vein. Here was Julie by the end of that ordeal.

A few minutes later it was time. A quick kiss and she was off to the operating room - and it was off to the waiting room for me. That was about 12:00pm.

By 2:30 her surgeon greeted me in the waiting room with great news. Julie had 3 large gall stones - one of which has lodged unceremoniously in her bile duct leading to the pain she experiences and some internal inflammation. He was confident he had found the source of the problem and was able to remove the gall bladder with the stones to resolve it. Julie had done great through the procedure and was now in recovery. He indicated I should expect her out within an hour or so.

I was glad to pass along some status to family and friends and then it was back to the waiting room until I heard from the recovery room. After almost 3 hours I was getting a bit concerned. Where was Julie? Was something wrong? Fortunately, once Julie woke up and regained her senses she realized they hadn't talked to me and got them to give me a call. It was great to hear her voice and know that she was ok.

Tim was nice enough to come over and bring me some dinner as I waited to see Julie. It was a very thoughtful gesture. Finally, after waiting 7 hours - I finally got to see her as they wheeled her into her room. She looked great and was awake and aware. I was relieved!

Julie is such a trooper! Here she is - this morning - already up and walking around. Amazing.

So, after proving she could eat some food without nausea she was ready to come home! They released her about 1pm today.

She's home now and resting comfortably. She has taken very little pain meds as she has enjoyed some Indy time on the couch.

We are very thankful to the Surgeon and staff at O'Connor Hospital - but mostly God for holding her in His hand throughout this situation.

Endo a Go for Tomorrow

2011-01-17T13:59:00.000-08:00

Julie's had her surgery consultation this afternoon and she's scheduled to go under the endoscope tomorrow. The primary culprit is a 1.7 cm (about 2/3rd of an inch) stone that is doing battle inside her gall bladder. It's time has come. Apparently, it is easier and less risky to remove the entire gall bladder than to try to remove the stone(s).

I didn't realize that when I was getting the plant tour at Stryker this summer I was getting a preview of Julie's life. If all goes well with the procedure scheduled for late in the morning - she may be home by tomorrow night. It somewhat is dependent on how she comes out of anesthesia. The last time she had to it was pretty exciting (years ago). I vividly recall being summoned to the recovery room by a nurse requesting 'Mr. Henderson, could you please try to calm your wife down? She's being rather combative!'. So, we'll see. Perhaps the years have mellowed her.

I've encouraged her to charge her iPad and get ready for some couch time. There have been some suggestions that I get her a bell. But, I'm told her lungs will still work just fine - so no movement on that front so far.

All surgeries have some risk - so we continue to covet your prayers. We've been encouraged by your concern and well wishes.

More when we know more!

It's Gotta Go!

2011-01-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

It's official. After spending last night in O'Connor Hospital - the doctors finally decided Julie's gall bladder has to go.

Let me back up. Last weekend Saturday and Sunday Julie experienced severe abdominal pain. On a scale of one to ten Julie rated the pain at a 9. Since she's got a pretty high pain tolerance we were concerned. Last Saturday the episode lasted for 2 hours or so. Last Sunday it was up to 6 hours before she felt relief.

So, we set up an appointment with our doctor early last week and Julie went in. After sharing her symptoms and family history she encouraged Julie to get some heartburn medicine and take it if, or when, she had similar symptoms. Heartburn? Well, okay - we'll give it a try.

Throughout the week Julie felt great, slept well and participated in all her normal activities. We were cautiously hopeful that perhaps the situation had stabilized.

Last night the symptoms came back - with a vengeance. About 9 PM she started sensing that something might be wrong. By 11:00 she had taken the heartburn medicine and we were hoping it would have some impact. By 1:30 am we were on our way to the hospital as Julie was having severe abdominal pain and she just couldn't bear it any longer. After checking in, getting her blood drawn, being poked and prodded and having an ultrasound she was finally administered morphine which brought some much needed respite from the pain. It was a relief to see her be able to relax and doze a bit after such a long night of discomfort.

About an hour later the affects of the morphine had worn off and she got a refresher while we waited to hear back from the doctor.

Finally, the doctor met with us and shared that her gall bladder has many gall stones which are causing inflammation and the accompanying pain. He then advised us that it's got to go. It's time.

After making an appointment in the morning for Julie to meet with a surgeon we were released and came home; exhausted but happy that we finally had some conclusive answers and a plan to resolve the issue. We are thankful for that.

We got some much needed sleep throughout the day, have filled a prescription for pain meds just in case we have a recurrence tonight and are hopeful that we will get a good nights sleep.

Please keep Julie in your thoughts and prayers during the week. We'll keep you up to date with plans for surgery. And - it looks like I'll be out buying a little bell Julie can use during her recovery to summon me for help ;)

Schnitzel

2011-01-09T19:34:00.000-08:00

Sunday lunch is often a friend-affair. We love to eat out with friends and both Julie and I are often up for something new. So, we were eager to check out Ester's German Bakery for some authentic German food in honor of Hannah studying abroad in Berlin. We figure if we're going to go visit her - we better know what we're doing when we get there and start ordering meals.

Ester's didn't disappoint. They had many traditional German recipes on their menu. And, you can imagine the joy I personally experienced knowing I would be eating lunch and able to order off the bakery menu.

Here's my lunch - Schnitzel. It's more or less a pork cutlet that is coated in breadcrumbs and fried. The side dish is traditional potato salad.

Okay - for full disclosure while we waited for our lunch I tasted a couple items from the bakery. First, a traditional German pretzel - which was soft and delicious. I also had some cheese bread. It was yummy. But, Rachel makes it even better ;) Oh, and just so you know - Randy ordered the Apple Strudel as an appetizer. Do we know how to live?

I think this whole German food thing is working for us. Meat and potatoes. These people get us ;)

Auto (Tod)McMuffins

2011-01-03T20:36:00.000-08:00

Oh my!! Hannah ordered me the most fabulous Christmas present and it just arrived this evening. It's a Tod McMuffin machine. Boo-yah!!

Of course, I immediately jumped into action. Check it out. First, you put your English muffin in the toaster slots. Then, you put some water in the steamer dish that is under the egg pan below, break an egg into the egg pan and set it in place.

Ham is next. It gets laid out on a warming plate that sits above the egg pan.

The steamer lid finishes the setup; put it in place over the heating tray and hit the GO button!

After that.. it just does its thing. The egg cooks. The ham heats. The muffin toasts. And voila!! You have everything you need for a Tod McMuffin (not counting the cheese which you don't heat!).

Just stack and snack! The finished product was DELICIOUS!! Sweeeet!!

Now, I just have to decide if I am going to take it to work to make breakfast during the week... or keep it at home. Tim had a great suggestion... get another one ;)

Thank you Hannah! I'm in McMuffin heaven.

Heading Out

2011-01-02T20:12:00.000-08:00

As many of you know - Hannah is studying abroad this semester in Berlin, Germany. Today we had to say goodbye as her adventure began.

It's been quite a challenge to think of her being so far away. Even when she was at Berkeley there was a reality that we could see her in an hour if we needed a Hannah fix. As a result - I think there has been a part of the normal separation that accompanies the college years that we have avoided until the last few days. Now, it's hitting harder.

However, we are very much looking forward to the experience Hannah will get being abroad. And it started with being able to pack up into a few bags for the adventure. If you know Hannah - you know the concept of traveling 'light' isn't in her vocabulary. But, I must say, she did an outstanding job getting packed and ready to go. Here's the end result right before we left the house for the airport.

Here's Julie and Hannah sharing a last hug before she had to go through security and off to her new adventure.

And off she went....

So for now we'll rely on Skype and our memories to get us through the next few months. Please pray for Hannah for safe travels. And, that she will have fantastic experiences in Europe. I know many of her days will be magical.

One last memory from our week together as a complete family... this is Ryan showing his patented Hannah lazy eye ;)

Bon voyage Hannah!!!

TH2 Palo Alto Day

2010-12-30T21:04:00.000-08:00

I'm letting go of trying to post events in order of occurrence. I will get back to Christmas sometime soon.. but for now let me tell you about TH2's day in Palo Alto today.

Julie and I remember what it's like to be new parents (vaguely, dimly.. but we do remember). It's a tiring, challenging role and new parents deserve some TLC every once in awhile. So, we offered Joel and Carissa a little break time while we watched Ryan. We were pleased that they took us up on the offer. Ryan loves to cruise. Julie and I love to walk. So - we're a good fit. Off we went.

Here's Ryan in the Bear Sweater that Hannah got him for Christmas inspecting a water fountain. He loved the visual play as well as the sounds it was making. He was mesmerized.

Next, he insisted we take him to the Apple store. Well, you don't have to ask me twice. Off we went. I got a little weepy when Julie rolled him into the store.

After walking around some more we joined back up with Joel and Carissa for some lunch. There's a place on University Ave aptly named SLIDER. Joel loved the concept and ordered these three beauties; cheeseburger, chicken and Kobe beef sliders.

Julie loves the pulled pork sliders with 'slaw. And the sweet potato fries are her absolute favorite!

Ryan loved the table ;)

After lunch we did a little more walking/browsing. Here's TH2 reunited.

There's a great bookstore in PA that was started in 1935. Carissa and Julie enjoyed exploring. It's not a shock they're in the Children's section in the picture below.

A family picture near the fountain was next up.

This is the kind of day that makes Julie smile. And that's the best kind of day there is.

More Wedding Pictures

2010-12-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

Here's some more pictures from Mr. and Mrs. Winslow's (aka Julie and Evan) wedding.

The invitation.

The bride's bouquet; which comprises the theme colors for the wedding.

Both the wedding service and reception were held in Julie and Evan's church sanctuary (picture is pre-wedding setup).

What they do is set up tables for both the service and reception. So, when you come to the wedding you find your table, kick back and enjoy.

The table setup followed the theme and was very elegant.

... but fun as well. Check out the candy dishes right on the tables. And there were little bells for each person to ring. The little card attached encouraged the guests to ring the bell to get the couple to kiss.

Hannah helped the bride with her hair. I was surprised they let me in to take a picture ;)

Fam and friends.

This is Evan's grandfather, Ed. I got a chance to spend some time with him and he is really a great man. And that's Mark Logan with Jon.

I didn't take too many pictures during the service itself. But, I had to get one of Hannah walking down the aisle. She looked beautiful.

Then, of course, came the bride with her father. They looked so good together and we were so happy for both of them.

Alas.. Tim lost Julie to the better man ;) And, eventually, they enjoyed a first kiss.

It wouldn't be a wedding without a jumping picture. Poor framing (had the wrong lens on when the jumping broke out).. but you get the idea.

Here's the bridesmaids; with the lucky groom.

And the Logan clan. They were looking at the professional photographer up on a ladder... so the angle is wrong.. but you get the picture.

Here are the bride and groom being welcomed into the reception after pictures.

The reception was festive! The cakes (actually multiple) were each delectable!

Everyone got a chance to take pictures with the bride and groom.

Or the flower girls...

And then it was on to the throwing of the garter..

And bouquet..

Congratulations again to Evan and Julie. And thank you for letting us participate in your wondrous day.

Congratulations Evan and Julie

2010-12-21T13:58:00.000-08:00

Our most heartfelt congratulations go out to Evan and Julie Winslow who were married Sunday! I'm only going to publish a head shot since I haven't had the chance to inquire from the bride and groom how sensitive they feel about pictures being posted. So - perhaps more will come soon (we will see them in a couple days). But, this event couldn't go unhearalded.

Here's to the quite lovely bride and groom.

The color palette was pink, orange and yellow (or some variation thereof ;)). The setting was quite unique in that the guests were seated at their tables throughout the service and reception. This turned out to be a significant blessing because the weather in the LA area was in a word - drenching - all weekend. The table decorations were simple, elegant and gorgeous.

You could tell from the beginning of the service through its climax that God was the featured guest and passion of the two celebrants. It was deeply touching to hear the official's encouragement as well as Evan and Julie's personalized vows to model their marriage after Christ and His church. What a solid foundation for the days, weeks and years to come for these two newlyweds.

I'd be remiss if I didn't say that this was a bittersweet celebration. My dear friend, and Julie's mother wasn't able to attend due to her passing 9 years ago. That realization crippled my emotions at times. There were many private tears shed throughout the weekend, during the proceedings, and as pictures of her were interspersed with pictures of Julie and Evan projected onto screens during the reception slideshow. I find that it is a really, really bad idea to lock eyes with Julie during these tender moments. However, it is reassuring to know that she is truely content where she is and that her beautiful daughter was able to follow on in her tradition of marrying loving, godly men. What more could she have hoped for?

A Great Question

2010-12-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

Vicki commented on my previous blog entry and asked a very compelling question: If we can afford to give so much away, why do we still have so many poor people here in the U.S.?

This is a pivotal question and I think most Christians think about this question, in one form or another, earnestly and often. It drives where we direct our giving (‘where is my money doing the most good?’). It drives whether or not we are motivated to give (‘if my giving is not having an impact… why bother?). It drives our perception of God (‘if He loves us so much why does He allow such poverty?’). And it drives a personal assessment of our individual ‘okay-ness’ (‘am I doing enough? All I can? what God requires?).

I would be very interested to get a dialog going on this subject. What is your experience? What have you discovered on your journey in this area? Are you discouraged? Motivated?

Please join in through the commenting feature and share your thoughts.

Personally, I believe that poverty is a very big and very complicated issue. It defies easy explanations and solutions. But it is a subject we all are compelled to consider given that we are called to be ‘the aroma of Christ’ on earth. So, here are some snippets of thought to get the dialog going.

ACT WITHOUT ALL THE INFORMATION – I have accepted that I may never understand poverty, its causes and what sustains it. Given that acknowledgement, I am faced with a simple choice: do what I can without all the answers or do something only when I have all the answers. For instance, I can’t tell you what has caused the person asking me for help to be in the situation they are in. And, I can’t be certain if the guy I give a few bucks to is going to buy alcohol, food or pay his rent with it. I can’t even tell if he/she is really wealthy and just scamming me. So, I have to decide what I am going to do with imperfect information. I choose to act in many of these situations as an alternative to inaction.

POVERTY IS A PART OF GOD’S OVERALL DESIGN (Part 1) – I don’t make this point idly. As I have thought, studied and prayed about the general question of why God gives differently to different individuals and people-groups (money, looks, talents, gifts, etc.) I have become convinced it is a part of His plan. God is the potter and we are the clay. He makes some to be beautiful vessels on earth and some to be meager. I believe He does this to challenge our understanding of who He is. How else would you understand true beauty if you don't learn to look inside instead of the outside for it? How else would you understand true love if you can’t understand that God loves the lowly and the exalted (on earth) equally? How could you understand true charity of spirit if you didn’t have the example of the poor widow who gave such a small amount – but all she had? How could you experience giving without someone in need? Is it possible that God designed the world to include ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’ to allow us to learn to be like Him? How else would we understand blessing if we did not have the counter example of lack of blessing? How else would we understand contentment if we were not in some level of need?

IT IS A PART OF GOD’S OVERALL DESIGN (Part 2) – I also consider that God gave us free will and an opportunity to exercise it. Therefore, to some extent, the exploitation of some people by the powerful and greedy is also a part of God’s design – in the sense that He has allowed evil to co-exist with His creation on earth for a time. In that regard it is a sad part. Obviously, God grieves when we choose the world instead of Him. But, he allows us that choice. It makes it even more meaningful to think of the angels rejoicing in heaven as we come to God when you realize their grief when we turn away.

POVERTY IS A CONSEQUENCE OF SOME PEOPLE’S CHOICES – this may be a bit controversial – but I believe that some people make their own bed. Some people are lazy. Some people are unwilling to work. Some people have too high a sense of worth and are unwilling to accept labor they believe ‘beneath them’. Some people don't take full advantage of their God-given talents. Some people don't take advantage of readily available education. Some people are foolish and take ill-advised financial risks. 2 Thessalonians 3:10b says ‘If a man will not work, he shall not eat’. Proverbs is replete with warnings against foolishness. For some people, poverty is the outward manifestation of idleness and foolishness.

POVERTY IS A POLITICAL/ECONOMIC REALITY – some poverty is a result of unemployment. In strictly economic terms unemployment (specifically in a capitalist economy) is directly related to inappropriately high wages. When political entities (unions, the government, etc.) set wages artificially high (e.g., minimum wages, etc.) unemployment occurs. Wages are also set artificially high when Government implements price controls (e.g., grain prices, utility prices, etc). It’s straightforward economics. If you want to have lower unemployment (which contributes to poverty as much or more than low wages) get government and other political organizations out of our markets and allow the free market to set the price on wages. The fact that the US has a minimum wage and over 2,200 price supports in place is clear evidence we intend to maintain a higher than necessary amount of poverty indefinitely. It’s designed in.

THE POVERTY PARADIGM SHIFT- it used to be that taking care of ones self and one's family was first a personal responsibility, second a family responsibility, and lastly a community responsibility. Charity began at home. We learned to be giving by being expected to meet the needs of those less fortunate directly among us (and then remote from us). We could directly see their needs and respond. We also 'knew' our neighbors which allowed us the discernment to know how best to meet their needs. Within the last 80 years or so the US has adopted a different paradigm. The government has systematically inculcated itself into every aspect of society and has taxed us to to provide the resources to do so. Where personal income taxes at the federal level were almost non-existent 80 years ago - they are now high and always likely to go higher. Simultaneously, we have transitioned from not even thinking about government as the answer to a society where a majority of citizens now rely, in part or fully, on government assistance to survive. We no longer feel personally responsible for people's needs. Instead, we point them to the government (e.g., social services, social security, unemployment, etc...) to have their needs met. Personally, I believe government cannot be as effective as individuals and the private sector in meeting needs due to inefficiencies, fraud, waste and interference in the free markets. Therefore, this paradigm shift to government as the answer - and the payment of taxes that might otherwise be used for individual charity to support government in this role is a direct contributor to maintaining and increasing poverty.

Okay.. enough of what I think. What say you?

We are the givers!

2010-12-09T15:02:00.000-08:00

Thinking about the sacrifice that Christ made for each of us challenges me throughout the year to consider what I am willing to give to others out of gratitude to Him. I will admit that there are times when I am prompted strongly to give. And, there are times that my giving is more rote; obligatory. It often helps that I am married to someone I refer to as ‘the giver’. Julie is a very sensitive, generous person and often encourages me in this area when she becomes aware of needs. She has made me a better giver and for that I am grateful.

At times, however, it seems that we can never give enough. The needs are so great. The demands on our resources are so widespread and growing. With that as a backdrop it was with complete pleasure that I discovered some interesting information while doing some research on giving in America. The data reaffirmed how great we are doing as a nation and encouraged my heart. So, I thought I would pass along some of it to you – in hopes you are encouraged.

America, you are doing an absolutely amazing job at being generous to your neighbors – both local and worldwide! No matter what you hear – you lead the world in generosity by most any measure available. For instance, in absolute terms we have no peers. Americans gave approximately $300 Billion in 2009 to local and worldwide charitable organizations. In absolute dollar terms the UK was second to the US. They gave approximately $16 Billion. So, the US gives $300 Billion and the second place is $16 Billion.

Wait a second, you might say. The UK is a much smaller country than the US. That’s not a fair comparison. Ok. Another measure of the generosity of a nation is the percentage of the money they produce (GDP) devoted to giving. In the US we give approximately 2% of our country’s GDP. The European Union has an economy that is close to our size (a more fair fight!). Yet, the only country within the EU that gave more than 0.4% of GDP was Ireland at 0.47%. In aggregate, the EU had charitable giving far less than 0.2% of GDP. Americans are at least ten times more giving than citizens of the EU as a percentage of income. Giving in Japan and China, the world’s third and fourth largest economies, was less than 0.1% of GDP; less than 1/2 the EU and less than 1/20th US giving.

Christ gave us everything; providing us an opportunity at life everlasting and all that we hold dear while here on earth. The challenge that Christ put before us is to give according to His leading and the resources He has entrusted to us. So, I am not bringing these facts up to be prideful or say we are necessarily doing all we can do. However, in a time when we often hear about our national failings – I would like to pass along a bit of positive feedback. America – we are the givers! Well done!

Tweets

2010-12-09T10:47:00.000-08:00

Okay... I'm kicking the dust off of Thursday Tweets to see if the girl still has some life in her. What say you?

Tod: so proud of TH2 in Oregon. they are doing amazing!

Tod: feels weird dating a younger woman now that I am 50

Tod: so much going on in the next few weeks. are you ready for it all?

The Big Dish Walk

2010-12-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

In the foothills behind Stanford University sits a 150-foot diameter radio telescope which has come to be known simply as The Dish. Originally constructed in the 1960's to probe the scattering properties of the Earth's ionosphere, the Dish has been utilized in numerous research pursuits in its 30-plus years of existence.

The Dish is the focal point of a 3.5 mile hike aptly named The Dish Hike which Julie took me on earlier today. The weather was spectacular as you can see in the pictures; clear and warm (in the low 60's). We refer to this as 'property tax' weather - because this is why we pay them ;) A wonderful way to play hooky from work.

The hike takes you into the hills above Stanford. It's a bunch of walking up and down but well worth the effort. The views are spectacular. You can see all the way to San Francisco. Here's a picture of the Reservoir at the top which overlooks the Stanford campus. That's the Hoover Tower in the background as well as the eastern part of San Francisco bay.

Julie and I added a couple side trails to extend our total distance to about 6.5 miles.

The Stanford foothills are largely undeveloped and home to lots of wildlife. For instance, wild cows.

Also - moles! How Team Henderson is that?

We look forward to sharing this hike with some of our friends! We'll definitely be doing it on a more regular basis.

Oregon in November

2010-11-17T22:28:00.000-08:00

Okay Linda, this is the post you’ve been waiting for! Pictures from Oregon. I hope you enjoy them.

Julie and I had the pleasure of a long weekend, a leisurely drive to Oregon, and the chance to visit Team Henderson2 last weekend.

I am pleased to report that TH2 is doing fabulously well. First off, Ryan is amazing. He is growing up so fast. We immediately noticed that he is very aware of and engaged with the world all around him. It’s wild to watch him focusing on different objects and people that interest him and attempt to reach out, roll towards and capture them. He seems to be very happy and healthy and content in his surroundings. Of course, that’s because of mom and dad who he adores.

We made a pact with TH2 before we arrived. They’d hang out with us while we did some Christmas shopping in an attempt to deprive California of their sales tithe – and we’d make sure they were well fed. I’d say both sides fully lived up to the deal. It’s clear that Ryan is fascinated with all the yummy food he saw us eating, though. I almost felt bad torturing him as he sat at the tables and watched us dig in at La Perla Tapatia, California Pizza Kitchen and all the other places we enjoyed. And, it’s fair to say that people will be getting Christmas presents this year ;)

Okay.. I admit that we gotta quit with the black background. But, It was fun to capture this moment in time in the life of TH2. I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as we enjoyed the visit.

Fallapalooza

2010-11-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

Fallapalooza is a community event our church hosts at Halloween time to connect with the kids and families in our community. In past years I've helped cook hotdogs (hundreds!) and do setup/teardown. This year I got a chance to serve in the photo booth. Our Creative Arts director (Kristi) made a futuristic, fanciful backdrop and my job was to get pictures of the kids and families. We then print out the pictures and mail them to the families (they fill out a mailing label at our booth) as a thanks for coming and a reminder of their time at Fallapalooza.

One thing Eileen (who was helping me in the booth!) and I noticed was that kids today have so many pictures taken of them that they seem to have a built-in 'photo smile'. You know that canned 'go-to' smile. So, I would usually start out by getting a picture of them doing that smile. Then, I'd ask if they would be willing to do something more wild. Most times that was a winner.

You won't know all these people and families.. especially you folks out East.. but just thought I would throw up a few of my favorite shots. I've still got a lot to learn with my camera. These pictures were taken at night, outside. So, there were some challenges. But, all in all I was pleased with the results.

This is Steve Joh. Love the jacket. Love the face. Love the pose.

Could Daniel have picked a better costume to go with the backdrop? Almost hurts to look at it!

OMG!! This one made me sooooo think of Ryan! How cute!! and the next reminded me of Joel. He soooo could have worn this as a kid.

This kid was hilarious! Check out the perfect hand position to squirt web from his wrists. Hahaha!

Some more random pics...

Here's the Hammers (Jason, Tran, Evan (green) and Natalie) decked out for their first Halloween (oops.. Fallapalooza). How cute! Dzung (Tram's sister) seems hungry.

The Camps

The Rexford girls??? Joanne seems scared!

Eric.. this one's for you ;) Use it wisely.

Extended family:

This is Kristi (the organizer and creative mind behind Fallapalooza) and her husband. Hold on Damian!!

The Band (of course we have live music at Fallapalooza!):

And the winner is....

I just LOVED this family! Check out mom's eyes. Those are prescription contact lens in green and yellow made just for this kind of thing! I have no idea where you would buy the teeth. It was actually difficult to get this cute little girl to pull her mom's hair and look manacing. But, we finally got this photo!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:38:00.000-07:00

Hannah and Maggie decided to come home for the day. They were excited to eat some home cooked food, carve some pumpkins and give out candy to the trick-or-treaters! Julie got them up and carving in the back yard.

Hannah enjoyed the slimy innards!

Here they all are working diligently. Gina looks relatively uninterested behind them ;) Julie looks serious!

Here's the finished products!

Tim even got into the spirit! Scarrrryyyyy!

Tweets

2010-10-26T14:41:00.000-07:00

I hope your schedule isn't as hectic as ours has been lately. Tell us about it. What are you doing for Halloween?

Tod: the kitchen down the street is pretty much done. Who won?

Tod: going to take pictures of the kids at our church's alternate to Halloween - Fallapalooza tonight! can't wait to see all the costumes. stay tuned..

Tod: it's getting colder here. snuggle time ;)

Oops.. she did it!

2010-10-16T17:59:00.000-07:00

While hanging out in Los Gatos, Hannah spotted this little beauty in a scooter shop. She immediately had to take a test drive.

Of course, Rachel needed to take a spin!

Well, then, come on - you know that they had to take a ride together. I'd say they're enjoying themselves!

Hannah has always wanted a scooter - and she just absolutely fell in love with this beauty. We did a little negotiating and then got in the Jeep to take mom home. On the way home - what did we see? And old lady riding down the street on a scooter. Hannah screamed 'it's a sign!'. You see, my dad had left each of the kids a small inheritance when he passed away. Hannah had a revelation. "Grandpa wants me to use some of his money to get the scooter, dad!" she exclaimed.

So, shortly after dropping mom off at home for a nap - we were on our way back to the scooter shop. Yep, that's right! Hannah is the proud, new owner of a pink scooter. Of course she insisted that they leave the ribbons and bow on it if she was going to buy it!

She absolutely can't wait to take it to school and scoot around campus. She even rode it home. This is her on the home stretch - on our street. Check out the cool helmet. She got them to throw it in for free!

You know Julie couldn't wait to get a ride! Here's my two favorite women taking a scoot!

I hope Hannah really enjoys it back at Berkeley. I can almost see it now....

Hannah's Home!

2010-10-16T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hannah decided to spend the weekend at home. Her roommates went down to LA to see Berkeley get killed by USC (arrggg!). So, she decided to hang with the Fam.

Jon, Rachel and Anna are also nearby doing some house sitting so we decided to hang this morning in Los Gatos. First stop was the Los Gatos Cafe. As you can see, this is a popular breakfast/brunch location. The lines get long.

The food is fantastic and plentiful! Here's Hannah attacking the communal cinnamon roll.

After breakfast we went for a stroll through downtown. I was a little concerned about Julie finding this store. But she did fine; and was really pleased with the deal she got on the glass pumpkins she bought earlier.

Hannah loved these dishes. She particularly loved the little crowns.

Our eventual destination was a wonderful bakery called 'Icing on the Cake'. It was sooooo yummy. They have all sorts of specialties but we really enjoyed Maple Moon cookies. Rachel describes them as maple donuts in cookie form. They were absolutely delicious.

And here's some lovely flowers we saw for sale.

Oh.. and then there was the little scooter store we encountered. Hannah immediately saw the bike of her dreams and talked the nice young man in the store to let her go for a test ride. Sweet.

Hannah always adds energy to any situation ;) We're glad she decided to hang with us this weekend.

Closer!

2010-10-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! Things are really moving forward down the street at the Logan's kitchen. The granite counter tops went in today. The stone is mostly black with beautiful blue accents. Gorgeous.

Here's the cook top and microwave.

The double oven and refrigerator are awaiting installation of the electrical outlets.

Okay - I'm not exactly sure why I found Tim in the dishwasher space. But there he is. I just report the news... not make it.

The end is in sight. I'll have to start checking the guesses to see who's still in the game!

Pumpkins 2010

2010-10-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

2010 additions to the Team Henderson Glass Pumpkin Patch ;)

Guy McIntyre Fellowship of Christian Athletes Golf Classic

2010-10-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

Shhhh.. Today I played hooky from work in order to play in the Guy McIntyre Fellowship of Christian Athletes Golf Classic. Here's our foursome - joined by Guy McIntyre. Guy was selected to 5 Pro Bowls and won 3 Super Bowls while playing for the SF 49ers!

This is my friend Jim who was kind enough to invite me to play in his foursome. Thank you so much Jim for the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful day playing golf to support the FCA in ministering to young people through athletics.

Here's Randy enjoying a moment on the tee.

On one of the holes we had a chance to compete against Guy. On that hole we could donate some money to the FCA. Then Guy would hit his tee shot (on a par 3). Anyone that made a donation made and hit their drive closer to the hole had a number of raffle tickets added to the main prize raffle. Guy was good enough to not get too close to the hole for us (he hit a tee shot within 5 feet of the hole with the next group!). So, I am pleased to tell you that I beat a 49 at something in my life. Check it off my bucket list.

Oh, and you might as well check off 'wear two Super Bowl' rings while you're at it. You see, Guy also won 3 of these babies while he played for the Team of the 80s! And he was nice enough to share ;)
Those things are HUGE! and laddened with diamonds!

For you golfers - we played an interesting - half scramble - half four-ball format. The idea was that everyone teed off and we all played from the best tee shot. Then, each player played their own ball the remainder of the hole and you take the lowest score. We ended up shooting 1 under par on a very difficult course (I can't even tell you how many balls we lost!). We were very pleased given the fact that it was over 90 degree. What a fun day.

Thursday Tweets

2010-10-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

We're into Fall - which means more stuff going on. How's it going in your world?

Tod: i'm closer to looking normal - and no more pain. sweet! soon, i might even go out in public ;)

Tod: fall means.. TAILGATING!! sweet! can't wait to tailgate this Saturday at the Stanford vs USC game with friends!

Tod: go Giants! so excited you're back in the playoffs! .. and hey, julie - your man Bengie Molina hit a homer last night in the playoffs for Texas!

Are you satisfied?

2010-10-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

In the business world, satisfaction (customer, vendor, employee) is highly studied. In fact, many models for expressing and evaluating satisfaction have been identified and are in use. One popular ‘model’ for identifying what ‘drives’ satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) is the Kano Model. The model looks like this:

The horizontal axis represents the degree to which ‘something’ is either provided or achieved. For instance, when you evaluate a cell phone you may have a list of features you desire/expect. If all of them are provided you would be on the right side of the horizontal line. If none of them were provided you would be towards the left side of the horizontal line.

The vertical line represents the degree of satisfaction achieved. The top represents complete satisfaction and the bottom complete dissatisfaction.

In the Kano model drivers of satisfaction are grouped into three basic types. The first type are called EXPRESSED. Expressed drivers are things people request; ask for; state a preference for. Here’s what the Kano model curve looks like for expressed features.

If someone expresses a desire for something and it is not provided the result is dissatisfaction. If the desire is expressed and fully met the result is a high degree of satisfaction. Of course, a middle result is possible when one or more features are partially provided or not fully provided.

A second type of driver of satisfaction is EXCITEMENT. Excitement is produced by providing features that are not even being expressed as desirable. These are typically new features. The first iPod produced excitement. The first moon roof produced excitement. Flowers in your motel room might produce excitement. Social Security excited people when first introduced. Adding excitement to the model looks like this:

Excitement only produces increased satisfaction. Even partial excitement increases satisfaction. Well done (achieved) or fully provided features produce large amounts of satisfaction. In fact, you can see from the figure that partial excitement can drive satisfaction higher than fully met expressed desires.

More interestingly, there is a third driver of satisfaction. That driver is called EXPECTED. When added, the Kano model looks like this:

This curve is fascinating and illuminating. You see, when a feature is expected and you don’t provide it – people get very dissatisfied. Imagine getting on a 4 hour flight and not being provided a beverage service. You’d be royally disappointed. You expect a beverage service on a long flight. In fact, you wouldn’t even ask for it (express a desire for it). You might ask if your seat has a power source to plug your computer in (expressed feature). But you just expect a drink. The most telling feature, however, is that this curve NEVER reaches even mild satisfaction. In fact, providing people what they have come to expect, AT BEST, achieves only indifference.

I said providing people ‘what they have come to expect’ for a very specific reason. You see, over time this is what happens.

Features no one was even thinking about pop up in products and services and create excitement. Over time, however, people start expressing an interest in that feature. They ask for it. After more time, so many people have expressed a desire for the feature that it simply becomes expected. No one even asks for it anymore. they just expect it.

In so many ways this slope is inspiring. It’s what keeps us getting better and better phones, computers, cars, etc. It’s what drives people to innovate. That's very positive.

However, this same model applies in other areas of life. For instance, how we view government. Or our family situation. Or our jobs. And it produces alarming results. Things that once produced excitement now produce indifference. What have you done for me lately? So, parents have to constantly give their kids more to stave off indifference. Our jobs have to produce more (pay, responsibility, excitement, etc) for us to be satisfied. And government must constantly provide more to keep people satisfied. The result of not getting more over time is diminishing satisfaction and indifference.

For instance, the following figure shows the slippery slope that results from the Kano Model applied to government. What should (and were) thought of as privileges that produced satisfaction soon degrade into entitlements which, sadly, produce no satisfaction.

So, what is the antidote?

Until I. Until we – can view what we have with thankfulness we will never be satisfied people. Thankfulness elevates the expected to produce satisfaction (the Bible uses the word contentment – or the state of being satisfied).

Thankfulness recognizes that what has long been provided remains worthy of appreciation. It provides perspective. It produces stability.

We can either continue to press for more, more, more; and likely bankrupt ourselves (emotionally, financially, spiritually, corporally) or we can be more thankful for what we have – or even – shockingly – give up some things we have come to expect and still be thankful for what remains (less).

I am meditating on this verse today: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since .. you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Putting My Worse Face Forward

2010-10-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Just before our family vacation to Michigan I visited a dermatologist to address some issues with my face. After receiving a tongue lashing for not being more consistent with sun screen and hats the doctor and I discussed treatment options for what were described to me as ‘pre-cancerous’ growths on my face as well as what is likely a cancerous region. We decided to hold off on treatment until after our vacation because the selected treatment ‘might leave my face with some redness and discoloration’.

Last Friday I was scheduled for a checkup and the treatment we had delayed. The good news was that the area thought to be cancerous was looking better. I have been using some topical treatments during our vacation – and they appeared to be causing improvements. But, the doctor still wanted to do the ‘dermatological light treatment’. I said no problem and was handed off to the technicians for the procedure.

The procedure – in a nutshell – is to scrub your face completely clean with acetone, put a chemical on the face – and then expose the entire face for approximately 17 minutes to a specific wavelength range of light to ‘activate’ the chemical process of healing. The first two steps were a breeze. The third step – exposure to the light - was incredibly painful. The best way to describe it is to imagine having your face really close to a fire and feeling that dry heat – but not being able to pull away. Imagine being in that situation for 17 minutes. I was literally singing hymns and doing breathing exercises as if I were having a baby through my face. My face after the treatment looked as if I had laid out in the sun for 10 hours without sunscreen.

After the treatment I had to avoid all light for 48 hours because the treatment made me extremely light sensitive. We put up sheets over the windows and I hid out in the house with the lights out. It was as if I were a bubble boy. I was able to go out at night and walk around if I avoided the street lights. The first 24 hours I wasn’t really able to sleep because the burn on my face was so intense. They said the worst of it would be about 24 hours in and they nailed it. My face just felt like I had a massive sun burn.

After two days some of the intense redness has subsided and now I just look like a horrible mistake. My face is deep red and blotchy in the spots that were most ‘pre-cancerous’. And the rest just looks like I’ve been through a meat grinder. Oh, and I am starting to show signs of peeling. It also remains somewhat painful. So, what to do? I can be exposed to some light (still need to avoid being outside). But, I look ridiculous.

Some good friends of ours asked if I wanted to play cards last night. Julie had talked to them at church as told them I was going stir crazy - which I was. They wanted to help take my mind off it by playing some games. I completely blew them off because my face just looks so hideous.

I got to thinking about that as I was unable to sleep last night. Why is it so easy for me to ‘be there’ for my friends but it is so hard for me to have faith in my friends and allow them to be there for me? I'm perfectly accepting and understanding when my friends go through difficult situations - but don't want to believe in them to do the same when I am. Here I was thinking that my blotchy, beet red face was the part about me that is ugly – when I had to recognize that the real ugly part of me is the pride or fear or whatever it is that rejects people and pushes them away before I allow them to have a chance to reject me. That’s truly putting my worse face forward.

Well, enough of that for now. Today I got up and decided to face the music, trust people and go to work. I can’t hide at home forever – and it’s not going to look normal any time soon. I decided to simply come to work and walk around the entire building, allowing everyone see my ridiculous face. I have preempted every conversation by simply stating ‘I know my face looks ridiculous’ – to get the obvious out in the open and over with. My colleagues have generally been kind and supportive (of course after asking ‘what the heck happened to you??’).

I’m ashamed to say that this whole situation has shown me just how little I trust my friends with my emotions. And I thought this whole procedure was about my face.

Wednesday Tweets

2010-09-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Anyone got something to share? Please join in!

Tod: Ryder Cup this weekend! Looking forward to some couch time!

Tod: saying goodbye to 60-70 people this week. layoffs. sad, but I am hopeful for my friends.

Tod: stuck. have this book that i am reading that's not so good. but, have this thing where i never stop reading a book. gotta finish. so, very slowly slogging through this one. weird.

Happy Birthday To Auntie

2010-09-26T21:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday we had the opportunity to participate in a surprise birthday party for Auntie. Her lifelong friend Penny threw the party at her beautiful home in Santa Rosa.

This is Penny and the birthday girl!

It was particularly fun because the party integrated people from Auntie's childhood, family and work lives. Here's some from her family life! Rachel looks good - for someone suffering from shingles ;) She loved this little table and chairs that were underneath the most beautiful arbor graced with grape vines.

I loved this picture for some reason. It's like playing where's Waldo with everyone!

Ok. These pictures are relatively random.. but DO relate to the party. You see, we had to park down the street and around the corner. As we were parking and walking back to Penny's house we saw these two huge spiders. Cool!

Everyone had a great time - as you can see by the smiles! Thanks so much Penny for inviting us to be part of Auntie's big day.

Too Much!

2010-09-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Just before we went to Michigan I had the misfortune of cutting my finger deep enough to require a couple stitches. This evening, I just received the bill for the procedure. It helps to grasp one aspect of the health care challenge facing America.

Fortunately for me, my co-pay for an emergency visit is $50.

I would say that the entire visit to the emergency room required about 30-40 minutes. I checked in and waited a few minutes for a nurse. When she was available she took down my medical situation including complaint (bleeding finger), blood pressure and allergies. This discussion took less than 5 minutes. Next, I was taken to a treatment area where a nurse rechecked my blood pressure and dipped my finger in beta-dyne to disinfect it. Next, a different nurse came in and set up the equipment required to sew up my finger. That took a couple minutes, max. Finally, after a couple more minutes a doctor came in to sew up my finger. That required three small injections of Lidocaine to numb the finger, one needle and some suture material - and about 4 minutes attention. Following that, the same nurse that set up the suture kit came and put it away and bandaged my wound. Then, the first nurse I met came with some discharge information and I was on my way.

The charge? $2,821.20.

Fortunately, my insurance company apparently has negotiated discounts with the hospital and were ONLY charged $1,325.

I wholeheartedly embrace Capitalism and free markets. And I fully recognize the time, effort and resources required for nurses and doctors to become educated and retain their professional credentials. Finally, I recognize the vast amount of capital required to build and operate a hospital.

That being understood - it's simply crazy to charge someone $2,821 for less than 30 minutes or so of work. Think about it. That's a rate equivalent to $5,642 an hour; or over $10M a year for suturing fingers.

What is the actual cost? Let's assume the doctor makes $300K a year.. and the two nurses make $100K each. Factor in a lobby receptionist at $30K as well. You'd have a payroll of approximately $530K. Now figure that typical employee benefits are equivalent to approximately 40% of their annual salaries. That means their total compensation would be $530K*1.4 or $742K. Of course, you have to pay rent, keep the lights on, have the equipment to suture, pay for malpractice insurance, etc. So, factor another $750K annually for expenses (seems high). Even then, the total expenses would be less than $1.5M.

And yet the hospital is attempting to charge the work out at $10-11M per year. Worse, is that our insurance company is willing to pay for the work at an annualized rate of about $5M per year. That's just crazy.

I am aware that health care providers have to charge people that actually work and pay for insurance more than what their actual costs are so that they are able to provide care to uninsured patients. But this is ridiculous. Ridiculous.

Indy's Adventure

2010-09-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you get a chance today, please pray for Indy. She is going on a little adventure at the animal clinic today. Surgery.

Indy's got a condition called Bilateral Luxating Patellas. That's a fancy way of saying that the kneecaps in her hind legs can become or are disjointed. It's a condition that is common in smaller dogs and correctable through surgery.

Indy's not in too much pain but they did give her a Fentanyl patch for the pain. You can see it on her leg. That's why she's sporting that cool head cone; to keep her from nipping at the patch and administering the medication orally.

Julie's a bit anxious about the procedure. It's always a little risky to put smaller animals under anesthesia but Indy is in really good hands and we pray she will be just fine.

After the surgery she's not going to be able to sleep with her friend Gina for awhile. She'll be immobile for a few days so we'll be keeping her in a kennel with lots of warm and soft blankets where she can recuperate in peace. Gina will miss her.

Jack Bauer is gonna miss having a play friend. Indy and Jack are constantly teasing and chasing each other around the house and yard. It's going to be rough for Jack to not have that companionship. Hopefully, in a few days things will be back to normal. (BTW... did you notice how Jack has one droopy ear? That's why I call him 1Up!).

We all wish Indy a safe surgery and fast recovery!

The Griffioens

2010-09-19T22:17:00.000-07:00

We don't get to see Julie's sister, Janice and her family as much as we'd like to. So, it was a treat to be with them at Bill's party a couple weeks ago. Janice has a beautiful smile - and can pretty much light it up on cue. She is very photogenic!

Here she is with Ryan. How cute.

She also has an infection laugh. Sometimes she gets to laughing so hard ... well.. it's hilarious.

Here's Julie imitating her. I think it might have made it worse..

Here's the whole Griffioen family. Team Blue.

The boys, Arie and Andrew, both have girlfriends. Grandpas house is .. well.. communications challenged. In fact, the only place they could get their cell phones to work was in the boat sitting next to the dock. So, started calling the pontoon boat 'the phone booth'.

John and Janice. Looking good.

The Griffioens love the water. Here's John working the Jet Ski. Awesome air! And Andrew wasn't to bad himself.

Here's one of my favorite pictures of the whole trip. Julie's on the dock like she's feeding the Swans. Janice, apparently, thinks she's a swan - because she's got her mouth open trying to catch some bread!

Julie and Janice had some girl bonding time on the lake in the neighbor's canoes. Janice can't go anywhere without her Big Gulp!

Here's all three Rexford girls. I am so glad that they all love each other and have made the effort over the years to remain a tight, loving family. What an example.

We had such a great time together. It's hard to leave. Obviously, Janice was heartbroken to have to leave and go back home. But, we'll be together again, soon.

Hannah Pictures

2010-09-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

Hannah called asking to get some pictures from our trip to Michigan. Well, how about I kill two birds with one stone? I'll let you check out Hannah's trip.. and she can save the pictures to disk! Sweet!

I've never seen her cross her eyes nearly this well before. Bravo!

Here's Hannah and Trent enjoying dinner.

Hannah teaching little red to make funny faces when photographed. And her boyfriend Eric giving Ryan a mouthful.

Hannah hanging with the Grandmas!

This is a photo you're not going to see everyday. Hannah taking orders and smiling about it.

The grandkids with Grandpa Bill and Linda!

Finally time for some jumping photos! Oh, and yes, fans, Hannah still does a mean handstand!

Here's Hannah and Joel doing their baby belly picture. Apparently, they taught their nephews a thing or two. Even Trent's preggers!

Oh.. did we mention that Hannah's boyfriend came up from the University of Michigan to spend some time with us? I mean Hannah? Here they are before they started wiping each other out on the Jetski.

So far so good.. and then... one of several wipe outs.

Here's Eric performing feats of strength with Trent. First, showing Trent how to do clapping push-ups - with someone on your back! Then being a human pull-up bar. Eric was a good sport.

Here's Hannah and Eric with us at Craig's Cruisers enjoying some miniature golf and go carts!

Eric looks serious ;)

Hannah and Dad playing bumper cars ;)

Competitors on the racetrack... friends off the racetrack...

And finally, Hannah and Joel being serious as usual.

Thursday Tweets

2010-09-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon! Anyone got anything interesting going on?

Tod: falling in love with NyQuil before bedtime...

Tod: late on getting blog entries up about vacation.. be patient.. they are coming..

Tod: just about lost all the weight i gained in Michigan! boy, do you folks know how to cook!

It's Your Birthday!

2010-09-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Joel! We were so glad to be with you in Michigan to be able to pre-celebrate your 26th birthday together! It's been too many years since we have spent time with you on your big day.

You bring a unique sense of joy to all our family events! Whether by land:

Sea:

or heir! (okay... needed a play on words to make this work... get it heir.. like in this 5-generation picture)!!

We love you and miss you! Have a great day with your beautiful wife and son. Know that you are first among our thoughts today!

gpadre

My Wife is Hot

2010-09-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this woman look fantastic in the maize and blue???

That's hot!!