New hairstyle. Keep it or lose it? I’ve had a lot of mixed reviews so far so be honest. I’ve had the same hairstyle for 7 years so I think it might be time for a change.

Vote now.

Stephen

I’m really late on this because it is almost Wednesday but I’m going to post it anyways because I think these are really cool. And I’m writing about the two most awesome people in the world, my parents. Besides the fact that I wouldn’t be here without them, my parents are two of the wisest, strongest, most amazing people I know. For example, they raised five boys on their own and my mom homeskoold all of us. We learnd alot and took many field trips to beach (just kidding, mom). She’s freaking out right now as she reads this. My mom was a great teacher and even though she probably wouldn’t admit it, had a lot of grace with us. Most of the time she was having to split up our fights.

When I graduated from high school, I had my heart set on attending UCLA and being an actor and all this stuff. I met with some friends in California who said they would help me and I had all of the plans in order. My parents supported me all the way but let me find out for myself that this wasn’t the right plan for my life. I’m really glad I didn’t go!

I’ve learned so many lessons over the years due to their wisdom. We didn’t have a lot of money growing up and I definitely experienced first hand financial miracles. We never worried about a meal and always had everything we needed. Even though I was young, it is an experience that will stick with me forever. Just this past year, my dad made one of the boldest decisions and quit his job to work for himself. He always dreamed of owning his own business and finally decided this was the right time. That was a huge step of faith and I’m proud of him. Now he’s like a gagillionaire or something.

I could go on forever in this post but you would stop reading after the 50th paragraph. They really are the greatest. I don’t know where I would be without my mom and dad and I’m really grateful for everything they have done for me.

It’s true.

Stephen

Oh the joys of living with a brother that is about to get married.
It’s not so much the brother part than it is the brother’s fiancee part.
The happy couple is scheduled to wed on June 14 and it is my job to find the perfect “L” for the invitations.
Apparently there is a fancy, curly “L” with a tail that I am overlooking.
If you happen to find this certain special letter, please contact me ASAP before I lose my mind.

Think happy thoughts.

Stephen

I laugh because it’s happened to me.

Stephen

Where do you go to find your personal creativity?
If it can’t be in the office then I’m usually somewhere quiet, cranking
up Sigur Ros or Radiohead.
I close my eyes or read a creative magazine.
I also find inspiration sitting at Starbucks.
And sometimes my mind is filled with creative ideas while I’m laying
in bed and I have to write them down so I don’t forget.

What’s your story?

Stephen

To me, American Idol is kind of cheesy and ridiculous but every week I end up watching it along with the rest of the nation (DVR is the best invention for the TV, hands down).

Last night was one such night as America sat on their couches for “Idol Gives Back” which focused on fighting poverty in this nation and around the world. At the end of the show, the producers decided to close with this song:

You don’t have to be a Christian long to know that “Shout to the Lord” is one of the most popular worship songs in the world. It has taken on “hymn like” status in churches in every culture and language. One thing the producers did last night was change the name of Jesus to the word, “Shepherd.” This really upset the Christians and even became the subject of our local Christian radio’s morning talk show. “How could they possibly take out the name of Jesus in one of our favorite songs?” I had to call in because I think we are missing the point.

I think we are more upset about the fact that Jesus wasn’t mentioned in “Shout to the Lord” than the fact that millions of people are living and dying in poverty around the world. The church has, historically, been the worst at taking care of the poorest of the poor (at least in America). We seem to get caught up in our own circles and tend to isolate ourselves and ignore our own surroundings. And if we do see it, sometimes we only give money out of the conviction of our hearts to put our minds at ease.

Here’s the reality: they need more than just money, they need the church. What are we going to do about ending poverty in our own nation and around the world? There are literally millions of people living and dying in filthy, preventable conditions. I have seen the poverty first hand in South Africa and it’s mind blowing. It really ticks me off when we whine about whether or not Hollywood gets our favorite song right. Call me crazy, but I think Jesus cares more about the people living in the slums than the fact that His name wasn’t mentioned in “Shout to the Lord.”

Discuss.

Stephen