Family Impression

It is an amazing thing to be in a family that gives so much to each other. I can think of so many times my parents, aunts, uncles and grandparents have given above and beyond what I expected to help me go through life, attempting to be successful. I can give credit to my elders for passing down what they have learned in both life and business. Then at some amazing point along the journey I caught all they had to offer and ran off in my own direction(s). Now I am in a position to give back.

My mother and aunt inspired me to draw and paint; and later to do these and earn a living by learning commercial art and design. Now, after years of marketing and design experience, the world we do business in has evolved while technology has paved a new road for the communications arts industry. The student (me) has become the teacher. I dedicate this post to my aunt who encouraged me to apply myself with the talent I have and learn a trade doing something that I enjoy.

I have tested, tried, used, abused what seems like every way to post a page on the internet. So, my aunt asks me, “What is the easiest way for me put up a web site for my properties?”. As a career graphic designer this question was not about how to make it look good, it was addressing how to I catch up with technology and learn to publish on the web without absolutely frustrating herself. So I suggested iWeb by Apple. And away she went to create a very nice web site featuring her rental apartments in Killeen Texas. Next, I offered my skills in search engine optimization to apply a simple best practices approach to improving the ranking of her new web site in the search results pages. I am thankful for an opportunity to apply what I’ve learned a give back to my family.

Bookmark to:
         

This week I met with a friend and he explained a horrible story of betrayal to me concerning the ministry lasting over 27 years to support Miracle Ranch Orphanage Foundation. He described to me how the supporters of this ministry have been deceived for years. Tony (Antonio) Herandez, the director of this orphanage, Rancho El Milagro is evading accountability for the alleged heinous crimes against close to 40 known victims. Please pray for justice and healing for these victims. An ongoing investigation is in progress to remove this director. Also, there are efforts in place to alert the financial supporters of these orphans that their contributions are currently supporting the defense of this alleged criminal, and not being used for the safety of the orphans. If you know anyone supporting an orphanage in Ensenada, Mexico, please check the background of the directors. It has come to light that two accused pedophiles, John Swink and Rev. Dalton Weber were on the board of directors with Tony Hernandez back in 1977 at Miracle Ranch.

I read the Miracle Ranch Orphanage Foundation Web site that is exposing the truth. Please pray that the Lord exposes the truth and brings justice and healing for the children (some are now adults). So many have been hurt and are still hurt and ashamed, my prayer is that a conviction will be served for the alleged rapist and molester; this may bring closure to these victims.

This horrific news brought me to tears. I am so thankful that my children are safe and secure. I praise God that he is sovereign and even though these victims did not have the protection of a mother and father they have His Love that is faithful even when the world and evil crosses their lives.

Bookmark to:
         

Before I was involved in a motorcycle accident, life was very busy and fast paced. I was trying to keep up with family, work and a huge list of things to get done. I was healthy for the most part and didn’t think so much about the things in life that seem to be a given or just plain normal.

I remember how in the summer I loved to swim and play with the family in the sun. How easy it was to swing my little ones with my arms. I enjoyed riding my motorcycle any time of the year; Southern California provides a great environment for bikers.

Now things have changed. I do often think about the little things that so often are taken for granted. For now I walk and can’t run. I focus on my health instead of ignoring it, eating better (mydailynutrients.com), stretching and exercising (just a little for now) more. I recently noticed a marquee that warned, “Don’t wait for a crisis to remember what matters most” (paraphrased). Life has once again become one day at a time. I get to spend more quality time with my family and enjoy their conversation and play.

This summer I may not be able to swim like I used to but I sure will be able to make the most of what I have. I am fortunate to be alive and, for the most part, all put back together. I have a few pieces of titanium and steel to carry with me as a reminder to keep life simple and remember what really counts.

Bookmark to:
         

I just wanted everyone to know that FamilyMan was in a pretty bad motorcycle accident a couple of days ago. He had surgery yesterday and is doing quite well considering. I have spoken with him and his spirits were up. I just wanted to ask for prayer for his family during this time and also for the rapid healing of his body. He is a great friend and an awesome father and husband. I am sure his family will welcome all and any help they can get during this time. If you know him or his family well, please give them a call showing your support. I know they would love to hear from you. Thank you for your prayers in advance. God bless.

Bookmark to:
         

We rolled up to the house and tuned in the radio to blast a rockin Christmas light show, literally on the house.

Bookmark to:
         

Holiday Shopping for Christmas,

The season brings thoughts of gift giving and celebration. With a family of six we really want to make Christmas memorable, but plan to do so without dropping an lot of coin at the mall. Our neighbors have lights hung with Santas and snowmen adorning our block. I’d really like to go big for Christmas and when I consider what the season is all about I remember that I need to re-focus. We are all making gift lists and storing up some cash for shopping. With only a week left until Christmas Day I know it’s crunch time to prepare for the big day.

I won’t spend all my resources shopping at the mall, in traffic or waiting in line. Since the day is all about Love, perhaps it would be best to get ready by showing more of God’s love. The first Christmas was just that a gift from God to man of our Saviour’s birth. I sure would like to show my appreciation and celebration for this gift that is just as valuable today as it was in that manger a couple thousand years ago.

We really have all we need, a home, clothes, family, pets and more. It seems like the thing we lack most is time. My wife has a coupon book on her gift list for acts of service, making an opportunity for our kids to be creative. My gift list is to have margin in my schedule, something I know that only God can help me find. By spending some extra time together and embracing the love of Christ I know that this holiday will be big in our hearts and minds. I hope to take this experience well into the new year.

On the subject of gift giving, there are hundreds of ways to save on gifts: coupons, specials and sales. I am a big fan of online shopping so I plan to cash in on some online offers. I would recommend buying from reputable stores with online shopping available. Many of my favorite stores have an email subscription list for coupons and special offers. I recently found out about cash back and rewards shopping. There is a web site that advertises the highest possible cash back rewards for shopping in their network of stores, visit MazumaMama.com to learn more. I plan on saving time for the holiday by being creative at home and even shopping online.

Bookmark to:
         

Bookmark to:
         

I just got home from seeing the film, Facing the Giants. A friend treated my wife and I on a spontaneous date to the movies. A few days ago my friend sent out an email to call believers to action, to support a Christ-centered film that is plainly a great movie, great story and must see for anyone. I was very impressed with the story of real people facing the impossible, and the fact that God works in the lives of men, woman and children. This film shows how christians pray using the promises of God and the blessing of trusting God while moving foward against all obstacles.

If Napoleon Dynamite was such a big hit in our main stream culture there is no reason why Facing the Giants shouldn’t be a huge success in our sub-culture of a post-christian nation. Perhaps this film will inspire church goers to give God the glory in everyday life. The movie clearly illustrates how God is working on behalf of His children to bless them and show His strengh in our weakness. Great job ‘Facing the Giants’ cast and crew!

Read the rest of this entry »

Bookmark to:
         

How do you feel about your family relationships? Does the thought bring a warm sensation and awe? Or, do you need to make a trip to the family improvement store (not Lowes or Home Depot). A simple way to make your family members feel special is to use words of praise and spend quality time at home.

I took note when a speaker said, “I told all my children that they are my favorite son/daughter, and I asked them not to tell his/her brothers and sisters.”I’m not sure if I could pull this one off since my kids were in the same audience. The principal is key to making your relationships special. All my kids and especially my spouse should feel that they are my favorite.

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” Proverb

Read the rest of this entry »

Bookmark to:
         

My wife Linda and are pastors of Family Life Community Church in Anaheim, Ca. Our mission is to “Help families live together in joy and harmony for the glory of God”. We are eternal optimists when it comes to seeing our mission happen in the lives of individuals, couples and families. The answer for all relationship conflicts are in the Word of God. Conflicts will arise in any seasoned relationship. Conflicts are not bad, they are inevitable. So, with that in mind, our job is to become experts at conflict resolution. The issue is people being honest with themselves about whether or not their actions line up with the principles for life found in the Bible. If their actions are Biblical people prosper in their relationships, if not, relationships deteriorate. I love the Word, I bear witness to it’s power in my life and in the lives of others we’ve been associated with in our 30 years of ministry.

Read the rest of this entry »

Bookmark to: