Gordon Avenue Show last night

What a show!

If you've not been to a Gordon Avenue show you've got to make it part of your 6 month Bucket list! Found some great new places to eat - the Hawthorne is a great place to hangout!

This video clip was shot with my Blackberry (turn the sound down) and enjoy the visual! Imagine rocking out with us at the next show!

More from Blackrock

So we didn't do any Black Diamond at Black Rock but here's the closest I got:

Here's a video from some guys riding some jumps and tec. rides:

Day with the Guys!

"Give up what you love for something you love MORE!"

Those are the words Jim Brownlee and I were discussing as we began our "suicide mission." It was the celebration of Steven Brownlee's birthday and he had invited Matt to join us -four guys on a road trip to one of the top 5 Mt. Biking parks in the NW.

Both Jim and I have been "giving up" (I like the word "exchanging" better.) "it-looks-like-food" for REAL FOOD! Jim is doing fantastic; I made it all day with my Cardio holding on strong!

Here are a few pics and videos from my phone (Anyone want to join us on our next adventure?):

This jump requires about 10' to hit the landing ramp and throws you about 8-10' up in the air - None of us attempted these jumps (there are more difficult ones)! We actually took the easiest trails and they were very fun, adrenaline charged, and challenging (there is a gravel road that families with small children were taking (very pretty).

Here's a pic of me trying to do the balance beam - Check my next blog for my "win" and Matt showing us how on the "real deal!"

STOP ASKING "WHAT SHOULD I EAT?"

200 years ago people died from childbirth, poor medical practices, and a lack of antibiotics! If you factor out these variables, people were much healthier than we are today. Try Googling "French Paradox" and you might discover some interesting, simple ways to boost your physical health (60 minutes aired it with a focus red wine being the secret to better health. Red wine consumption jumped 44%). HERE'S A SIMPLE FACT!

Our obsession with "What" we should eat has added to our very unhealthy relationships with food (We have more obesity, overweight, diabetic, cardio-time-bombs, and anorexic people than every before). For every child born after 2000, one out of every 3 will have diabetes in their lifetime! The more we focus on RIGHT EATING the sicker we get!

Three short sentences can set us free: "Eat food. Not to much. Mostly plants."

These amazing three sentences can be explored in a "very small" but BIG impact book, Food Rules, an eater's manual by Michael Pollan.

MY FOUR SIMPLE RULES (Thank you Jillian Michaels):

1. Eat Breakfast (within 1 hour of getting up): Your brain WILL eat if you don't (If you don't feed it, it will eat away at your muscles). Why not feed your body real food

; i.e. Steel Cut Oat and Yogurt w Frozen Blueberries!

2. Never go more than 4 hours w/o eating: Don't go by your hunger gauge, it's meant for something completely different. I eat every 3-4 hrs. and it's amazing how much this will burn off fat in your body.

3. Cut out ALL HFCS: High Fructose Corn Syrup is SO harmful is a number of ways; but it increases your appetite for food that is harmful. You will gain more weight and have more cravings by using HFCS (Note: Never say Never; Never :). I may have a treat with HFCS in it when I'm at someone's house (people matter more), but the best Chocolates, most amazing foods use real sugar, not a cheap substance that helps giant corporations make even bigger profit.

4. No carbohydrates after 9 p.m.: This is hard, so on my "date nights" I may have a homemade Margarita (no HFCS in the one's I make), but I try to really follow the rule, "Treat Treats as Treats."

(Hey: Don't forget to drink 3/4 of a gallon of water every day!

).

Even without exercise YOU WILL LOSE FAT if you add these four simply powerful rules to your life. Remember: Giving up what we love for what we love MORE is a great way to do life.

We can learn from the French: They ask "Why?" and "How?" much more and always BEFORE asking "What?" when it comes to food.

Why should I eat? Pleasure and the celebration of life (Re-read Genesis 2. We were physically made for pleasure. When I realize that food should be eaten with friends, then food becomes a fantastic gift. Food can be us

ed to make very strong memories and keep us "loving people and using things, not loving things and using people." This sets us up for the "How" question.

How should I eat? I should try not to eat alone (especially treats)! I should eat slowly and luxuriously with friends. I will stop buying cheap, food-like-substances, that don't taste as good as real food. I will take time to prepare it artistically and with great flair.

Last night was my pre B. Day dinner (I had an appointment cancel last night so . . .)! I prepared pizza (real dough that took 15 min to kneed; and 1.5 before baking). I used a real pizza stone, the best cheeses (5 kinds). Use Fennel, Rosemary, freshly cracked White Pepper, and other fresh herbs. The Chicken was made on Monday - 1.5 hr slow cooked Beer Can Chicken w Cajan spices. These pizzas were to die for (they were healthy, made an eaten with love). We had a salad, fantastic wine, and lots of laughter. My weight we down this a.m. but my lean muscle mass was up! What a way to live (the old fashion way). It's simple, fun, and I spend so much LESS time asking "What should I eat." I look for real food, the best quality, and lots of variety. My 15 + diet books are going to Good Will! Good luck on a fun, healthy relationship with food - it's a gift from God; let's treat it that way.

OH WOW: I almost forgot, Sep 19 at 7 p.m. is Gordon's

Newest Show at the Hawthorne Theater. If you've been saying your going to come and haven't this is your date! There's a fun crazy theme: Mustache Madness! Gordon will have a raffle for all who sport a mustache (real, fake, painted, ect).

New songs and a show you'll not forget for a long time. Come join Laura and I (call us and we'll do dinner early:)!

LINK to Gordon Avenue

Sick pics of Gordon (Chinese Fire-pot experiment)

A cotton swab, with rubbing alcohol, and a BBQ lighter; that's what she used to ignite the round glass balls that ignited with FIRE and then were extinguished as they were pressed against my oldest son's back. We were doing a BBQ at one of our "girl's" homes (Laura and I have so many "non-biological" kids - what a blessing), and Gordon got volunteered for our entertainment.

Here those "Sick" pictures!

Hey, Only God International is coming to our East Vancouver Living Hope Campus this Sunday (check it out) . . . AND we are going Rafting on the White Salmon July 24 (send me an email if you want to join us - bruce.lhceast@gmail.com).

New experiences - starting your golf swing early!

I posted some unbelievably beautiful pictures on Facebook of my, just turned

two years old, granddaughter hitting her first golf ball with a real iron (7). This took place on Memorial day! This little bundle of energy, who's growing like a "flower," is such a joy to have in our home and our lives. We are so very blessed!

We also did our first-ever-bike ride on her new bike (she needed Grandpa-power to make it work, but the idea has been introduced). This way, not only can she become a road racer, but will be read

y by to inherit her daddy's Mountain Bike soon (an aluminum beauty that's got her name written all over it. It's so hard to wait!). I'm, even now, visualizing us doing some serious downhill'n together after getting in an early 18 holes at the Skamania golf course! Wow, I can hardly wait. Enjoy the photos:)

As Memorial day ended, we had time to squeeze in a horsey ride! What pure, 100% fun! This IS what heaven will be like!

Memories this Weekend - Want to hang w Laura and me?

Funny how we (I) love excuses! I was at our new Mall campus for a big chunk of Tuesday and I had planned to get several blogs ready for this week (I'm blogging on "infidelity," unfaithfulness in all areas of our life, and how examining what we "worry" about can get us under the surface to look at the source of distrust and unfaithfulness to those we love), BUT (this is a very powerful, often dangerous word -"but"), I couldn't get the connection to link up. The rest of the week is history and I've little time to share the juicy excuses I baked up.

CUE (What Laura and I are up to Sun. afternoon):

You may want to join us (following the 11 a.m. service on Sun. at E. Vancouver Campus) if:

1) You like laughing and taking pictures at the same time.

2) You've got an appetite for seeing something "very cute"

3) You like simple, but grand, picnics

4) You need to be at another appointment about 6 p.m.

HINT: What we'll be doing involves a digital camera, the ability to swing one's arms, white wooden objects, an adorable 2 yr. old, and lots of green stuff! It only costs possible sore ribs (from laughing and swinging) and grand conversation (plus fresh air)!

INTERESTED? Email me by Saturday midnight at Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

The color "pink" is definitely part of this Sun. afternoon adventure!

The Monday after LOST ended (Safe to read random thoughts)

DON'T BE AFRAID, I'M NOT GOING TO GIVE AWAY ANYTHING FROM LOST & MY "ONE" COMMENT DOESN'T REVEAL ANYTHING! PROMISE!

It funny how much "props" visually change so much for me. I hated (emotionally turned off) some of the props used in the LOST finale. I love the study of the human psyche. The most fun was watching how very much our oldest son enjoyed the show! But it's sad to see isolated people so obsessed with a show - without friends to enjoy life with, all props (TV included) are empty and have very little meaning.

Some random thoughts on this Monday a.m.

1. What fascinates us, sometimes, with evil people?

2. Who are you most jealous of? What are the sources of jealousy?

3. Am I "Ok" with me today, right now? Why?

4. "Don't get into a battle without some wise mentors close beside you; victory means having many counselors." From Proverbs 24 What could this l

ook like? What are the biggest benefits of following this advice?

5. I've spent several minutes this morning musing on Proverbs 24:27 (applied it to relationships too). Houses and friendships both have "maintenance" costs. Do I have an ongoing, renewable source of income so I can keep pouring into who/what counts most in my life?

Hey: Our East Van. blog is all about "infidelity" this week. The first one is how "worry" can help you see who or what your most unfaithful to - check it out!

Gordon Avenue plays at the Portland Hawthorn Theater this Friday at 7p.m.

You need to come and hang out with Laura and me this Friday night! The band has added a couple new songs and some fun surprises. It's happening at 7 p.m. - Hawthorn Theater (Link).

If I tell you more then I'd have to kill you (not even figuratively speaking . . . I'm very tired this morning . . . :)

Seriously, Laura and I would so love to have you come enjoy the evening with us. It's $10 and it so benefits our son's band if you buy tickets ahead of time. It's easy (We'll make it so!) and you won't be disappointed in the investment.

Go to Gordon's link or email me - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

WHy buy $100+ running shoes?

So this has been one major week of "running" - not on pavement as much as in my little Honda, on my MacBook, and using my cell phone.

This morning (Just after midnight) I preach to 3,000 people in India (via cell phone). 500 pastors were at this special gathering and over 1,000 believers. Some 1,500 people who had never heard of Jesus were there as well. I slipped into bed after preaching (it was 1 a.m.) and woke up to an email (5:45 a.m.) telling me that 700 people accepted Jesus when I preached at m

idnight. So many people came up for prayer and were healed! I'm exhausted today but still so full of energy to pour into people's lives.

What does this have to do with $100 running shoes?

I'm running the Hood to Coast with a team of 12 people. I get to improve my health, invest into others

lives, and lower my "slightly high" blood pressure.

I bought these shoes because 14 years ago I did the same thing in Seattle before I ran my one and only one marathon. I bought these shoes after having two experts watch, film, and analyze my running (barefoot). They then tried different shoes on me and watched me run. From this I've used a team of experts to fit the best shoe for my running style.

Apply the principle of "team" to how you build your business, relationships, and spiritual journey and (exercise goals)!

1. Add people to your life that have strengths you don't

2. Associate with people who are wanting the same things you do

3. Hang out with others so you don't become isolated

AND YOU WILL GROW BETTER FRIENDSHIPS (Business too)!

New shoes, Three word prayers, & a cool Acoustic Show

NONE OF MY three faithful readers bugged me about posting my famous "three word prayers!" Come on guys, your letting me down :)

My favorite 3-word prayer is, "I am Yours!" I breathe this out in the a.m. and often throughout the day; why? It's the bases of great friendships -the reason for our existence. We were built to BE in powerful, life-transforming friendships. And any (that's a big word) great friendship needs mutual value (admiration and affirmations that the friendship matters)! Mix "high value" with the assurance of commitment (I'm there for you, even if I win a 50 billion dollar Lotto)! Commitment without value is slavery or some form of psycho-mess-up.

When you pray this prayer you affirm a reality that can't always be seen with our senses or feelings. Belonging is a fantastic gift; especially if you like the person you belong to - and they like you just as much!

Another 3 word prayer I like is, "For my friends." Thinking about others is such an "out of jail free" card to my feel-sorry-for-myself moments. I also like the 3-word prayer, "I am blessed." It so helps me to keep in the zone of being gifted rather than an "I deserve," or "it's my right" wrong attitude. Enough 3-word prayers for today (I've got more :).

NEW SHOES: Setting up mile markers can be a good thing (if you don't measure your value by them; or others). I just set a new PR for running distance last week so I celebrated by buying a pair of shoes & fit! Sixteen years ago I went to Jack & Jill's next to Green Lake (Seattle) and had a store employee go joking with me - then fit me to the right running shoes. I did it again this week and I'm loving the difference (this time they slow-mo-video you while running barefoot on a treadmill. They do a bunch of other voodoo stuff as well. My ankles, knees, and shins are very valuable to me - I'm so glad I reach this health goal (would you like to see a pic. of my new shoes? :D

Hey, Check out the Facebook and our blog re. the acoustic show, art exhibit, and great food this Friday, the 23rd at 7 p.m. It's fun, free, very relaxing - You should check it out, and then come and enjoy. My son Gordon, of Gordon Avenue, is teaming up with a fantastic bass player, and a couple other great musicians to do a very cool Acoustic concert. Check it out here, NOW!

Facebookers - do a search for Living Hope Church East Vancouver!

Prayers that benefit almost everyone (atheists too)!

So I've got this thing about 3-word prayers! Three word sentences can be powerful, i.e. "I lv U!"

This week (please bug me if I don't get these posted) I'll be posting some of the most powerful 3-Word prayers I find so helpful in forgiving myself. Check out our East Van. Living Hope blog for even more about forgiving yourself (www.lhceast.com).

Also: An Acoustic Concert by Gordon Avenue (www.Gordonavenue.com) and friends Friday, April 23, at 7 p.m. (705 SE Parkcrest Ave. Vancouver, Wa 98683 - Just East on Mill Plain off of I-205). It's free and there will be an art exhibit and great food! Come hang out with Laura and I. If your too old for "serious rock and roll" you can enjoy the mellow acoustics of Gordon Avenue in this special appearance at our local Living Hope Campus.

Easter at East Vancouver Living Hope - 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Laura and I have so much to share about Easter! Come join us and we'll buy you a latte! More to come all week about Easter as never seen before :)

On the Mt. with my Sweetheart, meeting Richard the Great

So today was one of the most glorious days on Mt. Hood you could possibly experiences - WOW, wow, double wow! In this retelling of one fabulous day, I'll share with you the story of Richard the Great (Our first time to meet), our adventures on a new trail, and the very fun coffee shop (with cool hand-made earrings for $7.98).

We first met Richard in the snow park lot - he was parked next us. I commented on his ski boots and he told me he was learning to Skate.

Laura and I were trying out the Tea Cup Nordic trails for the first time. It's a great place; so well groomed and a nice Lunch cabin. The view of Mt. Hood and variety of trails make this a great place to cross country ski.

We were about half way around our 1.5 hr. loop when we caught up with Richard. He was skating uphill, working hard (Skater's skis are shorter and smooth bottomed: stiffer boots are the final part that make this type of Nordic skiing different than Classical Nordic). Nordic skating is much faster, more demanding physically, and lots of fun. We visited with Richard for a few minutes and then pressed on ahead. Richard told me he had started Cross Country skiing when he turned 54. How fun it was to meet this guy who at age 71 was learning the demanding sport of Nordic Skating.

As we were parting ways, I asked the man, I call Richard the Great, what his name was; his reply, "Dick." I'm sure his Birth Certificate must say his name is Richard. No one who is so full of adventure, energy, and

strength should be called Dick.

After our 1.5 hour warm-up Laura and I again took on the White River Trail on our snowshoes. This time we left the river and followed a ridge that was simply a great workout. Coming back down the trail Laura simply kicked my butt. It was a warm, sun drenched workout with Mt. Hood staring down at us the entire time. We had so much fun!

We left the Mt. and stopped in the little Hwy 26 pit-stop of Welches Oregon. This time we were trying to find a small eclectic coffee shop we had heard about. After a couple "not the right place" we found it! They not only serve Stump Town Coffee

but they make a wonderful latte! If you bring your own cup they give you a 50 cent discount (they clean and pre-heat your cup too). Laura bought a chocolate cookie that was about 3/4" thick, and baked to perfection (How do you do that with a cookie that thick?). It was full of the perfect f Chip to Cookie ratio. This little Jewel of a hangout also makes breakfast and lunch items that look wonderful. It's a very fun place (free internet, a yarn shop connected, and creative hand made earrings). Check it out - Cafe Aria

I found Laura the perfect pair (and $7.98)! On the trail, and again on the way home we had an invigorating discussion about; "Who in the Old Testament are the three people you admire most?" I started by choosing Abraham then switched to Moses after Laura's persuasive arguments. I almost chose Esther, but a tie between to other people still has me struggling (I'm still trying to decide . . . maybe I blog on it later).

We arrive home just in time to shower and make it to the 5 p.m. service at Living Hope. Pastor John and I have been very much taken up by 3-D forgiveness idea, but tonight John took it to another level by introducing 4-D forgiveness (It was a fantastic talk).

So after a phone visit with my old cycling buddy from Seattle, I'm ready for bed. What a wonderful day. I'm praying I will be on new adventures and great physical challenges when I'm 71, just like my new inspiration, Richard (Dick) the Great!

Snowshoeing details

Even more details yet to come this week - keep checking back! Updated 3.24

LAURA AND I ARE GOING UP THE MT. NO MATTER WHAT . . . YOU CAN JOIN US :)

Overview: March 27 (8:30 a.m.) at Government Camp (NOTE: From Vancouver, you will have to leave about 7 or 7:15 a.m.). This is on Hwy 26 (to Mt. Hood). At Gov. Camp take a left at the first "flashing light" (across from Ski Bowl). You will see the Ski Rental Shop, Mountain Tracks, just right of the Huckleberry Inn (LINK). The rental price is $15 for boots, snowshoes, & poles.

Snowshoeing destination: T.B.D. Most likely near Meadow's Ski hill - a bit beyond Government Camp (this will depend on the snow report). NOTE: Starting early will make for better snow conditions (The snow will be very wet and heavy afternoon).

What to wear: Bring layers, base layers of sports tops, ski pants, or exercise - long pants with under-layer. One heavy pair of socks, a medium pair, and think wicking pair (this will give you the best fit if your renting boots. A light windbreaker and gloves (light running gloves and/or ski gloves.) Hat or ski hat if you get cold easy.

Food, ect: Bring protein bars, nuts, and peanut butter. Two 16 oz. bottles of water and extra for the car afterwards - good! Sun screen and sunglasses will be needed.

NOTE: If you want to come snowshoe, but are afraid of how hard of "workout" it will be - there are options (I can tell you about some great handout places - couches, art, book-store) and you can always met us later on if you like. I hope we can be snowshoeing by 10 a.m. and then be 1/2 down the Mt. (Hwy 26) in time to eat by 2 p.m. I need to be back to the main campus by 5. I think everyone can easily be home no later than 4 p.m. if you wish.

Email me and we can connect (I'll phone you too). More details to come. Brucea@livinghopechurch.com

Our Saturday Night date (You're invited) March 20

So we invited some friends (Our whole East Campus Living Hope Church) to join us this last week for a date. The date is Sat. night - it's a progressive date (Please feel free to join us at one of three locations. You can met us at stop #1):

Feel free to email me at bruce.lhceast@gmail if you want to exchange phone numbers.

1st stop - 5 p.m. at Living Hope Church Main Campus) to hear one of my friends tell his story of how forgiveness changed his life. I think you like it!

THEN - the 2nd stop, 6:45 p.m, is at the Fusion Bubble Tea shop (13503 Mill Plain Blvd. Vancouver, Wa 98684). This place is just East of the old G.I. Joe's in the same strip-mall. It's a funky cool place with some nice art displayed. There will be a band playing there (It could be crowded, and could be crappy music . . . but, hey, it's an adventure. We'll just have to find out . . . . Besides, that makes stop # 3 a good option!).

# 3, our final stop is at Panera Bread, 15 SE 164th Ave, Vancouver, Wa 98683 Time: TBA (it all depends on what we find at stop #2). If your driving East on Mill Plain (from Fusion) it's easier to cross 164th Ave and then turn right and pass the Olive Garden into Panera).

Note: Stop three will involve discussion (Bruce picking apart your brain) of Bruce's sermon he's giving the next day (March 21). Let us know if you want to join us.

Don't forget to check back for details regarding our snowshoeing trip on March 27 (What to wear, options of trails, cost of rental, places we might eat).

The World's Greatest (Perhaps) Love Saga

Well hydrated on Shel Silverstein’s 46 yr. ol

d story, The Giving Tree, I was hurriedly assembling my arsenal of fuel for the day; apples, water, and almonds.

Suddenly my prepared assault on life was interrupted. It was to be a divine interruption!

My little grandda

ughter, Elena, was staring up at me from beyond our cooking island. She was furiously waving at me, all the while expertly chirping,

“Bye! Bye! Bye Papa, bye.”

This, nearly-two-year-old slayer of old grandpa-like hearts was doing it again –

“Killing me softly,” I sighed –then mumbled out loud,

“Dang, if your not the cutest little girl in all the world.”

You may be asking,

“Why Bruce, are you erupting in such a passionate, emotional homily (most likely you aren’t ask this at all - laugh)?”

Because, my friend, Life-breathed experiences like the one I’m about to mesmerize and memorialize you with should never be taken lightly! In fact, these encounters should be immortalized and celebrated – So, let the saga begin (Wow, are you ready?)!

My response to Elena was both normal and predictable.

“Bye sweetheart, Papa loves you. Bye-bye.”

Now before we crash together into an emotional pay-dirt like euphoria, an in-the-ballpark-home-run kind of bliss, I must warn you that one might suffer strange unexplainable symptoms or even physical side effects that could leave a person temporarily paralyzed from all practical activities and rational thoughts (that might be a good thing). What I’m about to share could cause you to feel like the words my father used in a letter to my mother more than five decades ago. My sister and I successfully stole and read this letter out loud, amidst enthusiastic cheers, laughter, and some frantic attempts by my father to stop us. This successful reading was due in part to our bathroom having a solid-core door and sturdy lock. My dad had ended his letter to in a most masculine, Zane Gray, sort of way. He signed off with the words,

“My heart drips puddles of purple passion for you.”

XOXOX

Gordon

I’ve never met a man who loved his wife the way my father loved my mom. Their love story is far more incredible than the TV's Fringe! It's beyond CSI solvable - they married 3 months after they met. Their love touched hundreds of lives!

Ok, so here goes . . . I’m back on track to telling one of the greatest love sagas ever recorded . . . trust me.

After Elena tossed me her goodbye, I instinctively echoed back, to my future golf/tennis/cycling and running partner; sweetheart # 2, Elena:

“Bye-bye sweetheart. Papa loves you.”

I’ve said these words at least 2,012 times to my little girl, but this time . . . wait, just one more side street, please? Thanks.

WARNING: Be careful if you’re reading this while driving. Please! Friends don’t let friends drive and read! Ok, the rest of this story is commercial free, promise!

Elena’s flickering, fluttering eyelashes framed her dark chocolate eyes, her eyebrows traveled up and down in metronome-perfect synchronization to her cowgirl “queen-of-the-rodeo” goodbye wave. She then proclaimed with Charlton Heston-like-sincerity . . . did I mention that Elena’s voice was, at that precise moment, the most “wonderful-in-all-the-universe" perfect tone, pitch, and accent? It was so awe-tingling-ly-ly beautiful that I’m sure even Heaven held its breath. Elena said, and I quote,

“I love you.”

Let me repeat, Elena said to me this morning (March 11, 2010),

“I love you.”

Today (March 11) was the first time humankind has ever heard my little Elena utter these revolutionary words. Her mother instantly pumped out pure high-octane joy, like an Indy 500 racecar sucking in fuel at 3 gal. per second during a pit-stop (Honesty friends, I know almost nothing about auto racing)! A mixture of jealousy, happiness, unadulterated laughter, and a lot of well founded pride flooded her eyes. As for me, I cried, I died, and I was reborn again and again (Like, over and over and over and . . . .).

This is one of the greatest days of my life. Elena proclaimed those words so easily, so freely. They are a priceless gift to me, no strings attached. Elena had zero awareness that I would blog, brag, and annoy others by going on and on and on and on about this world shattering, life transforming experience; possibly the world’s greatest love saga!

Hey everybody, did you hear the news? Elena said “I love you” for the first time today! And she said it first to her grandpa!

Later, while tooling down the road, (Old guys lingo for driving.) my phone’s digital recorder zoomed into action. Words bubbled and burst from my os (Latin for opening, or mouth). Small scraps of paper (Fred Meyer gas receipts to be exact) voluntarily enlisted as a primitive Beta iPad, and my #1 sweetheart Laura, had to put her ICU patient on hold so she could take my urgent phone call. She listened as I ranted and raved about how real, lasting, and worth everything love really is (Don’t worry, the patient is still alive)! Here’s a personal truth-note: Laura was genuinely thrilled that I was the first one Elena said these words to. My wife is such a saint! A sexy one too (Just joking – not really. Ok, she really is! If your face has presently begun to resemble a prune, take five, then smile because Bruce is bonkers over Laura. Ok? Feel better now?)!

I’m thinking about some words I jotted down a few days ago; I saw them this afternoon on a scrap of paper next to my black leather recliner. They still illuminate my brain. Their dark, cursive ink whispers,

“Love gives because it wants to, is free to, and chooses to.”

An worn-out old man, nearly a century in years, once said,

“We love because He first loved us.”

Yes! Love is a gift we are able to give because someone loved us before we even knew how to say thank-you.

It was maybe fifteen or so years ago that I restated to Elena’s father, my son Marcus, some words I’d read in a Hippy-type book: A saying that concisely expresses reason why we exist:

“Love people and use things, never love things and use people.”

This morning my little Elena revived an ancient, anti-Greek, Hebrew philosophy. It’s one of those original Avatar-like truths: A Genesis concept that says that physical things are good, not evil. If you’ve no clue what I’m pontificating about your probably much safer and saner than me. Don’t worry it’s only my dislike for Greek beliefs that became A priori voodoo (mistruths) for almost all of the Middle Ages (I still think Dark Ages is a better phrase) and the basis of what most world religions define as sin –"don’t touch, look, taste or listen to . . . ." Any-how, that’s a coffee date, right?

Elena has successfully performed a permanent catheterization of this timeless truth, deep into the left ventricle of my cor (Latin; core; M.EN, hert; E., heart). Undisputedly, the most important chamber is the left ventricle, I think. Nevertheless, I don’t believe we are truly human, only potentially so, until we are in real, authentic friendship.

Elena wants to be my friend and I am hers. I am a very blessed man. What a gift I’ve been given! And I did absolutely nothing to “earn” this gift. I don’t think I deserve it. I doubt it has anything to do with deserving or not deserving –IT’S SIMPLY A VERY PURE, GENUINE, GIFT! A freebee from a little girl I love very much! What a grand memory.

I hope this story has blessed your life. Try Loving back as much as you are loved. Have a great day! And for sure, re-read Shel’s short story, The Giving Tree (LINK).

The Band, The Snow, and 2nd Saturday :)

2nd Sat. Serving Others Event: Laura and I will be joining about 800 other people who "hate" religion (rule-based fear driven organizations) and love God (www.livinghopechurch.com) and serve the community. Go to our East Vancouver blog for details this week (www.lhceast.com). Date: Sat. March 13, 9a.m.-1p.m. (Meet at Living Hope's Main Campus).

My friend Adam sounded like the Band "Everclear" (to my ears) this week during one of his songs (LINK). It made me smile.

Want to go snowshoeing? Laura and I going Sat. March 27! Use the following email if you want talk with us about going, Brucea@livinghopechurch.com. We many have families with kids. It all depends on who wants to go. We WILL have fun!

Check out these books? Laura and both loved Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson (so inspiring) and then got turned onto Half the Sky by Kristof & Wudunn (We went to Lloyds theater to see the event too) - Wow, what a tragic and inspiring book for a lot of people.

My favorite authors book I'm just finishing: I've got five pages left on Brennan Manning's The Furious longing of God. This book turned me onto a new way of looking at Shel Silverstein's classic poem from 46 years ago, The Giving Tree. This author so inspires me how much God loves me (you too)! After reading this book, I wrote a paraphrase with some of my favorite thoughts. Check back tomorrow & see if I've posted it yet.

The final book that I'm so enjoying right now is an author I've never read before, Timothy Keller - the book? The Prodigal God. This book, unfortunately, uses some old "religious" language, but has some thoughts on Luke 15 that I've not found very many places. It also has some incredible "one liners." It's an amazing read of Jesus' story of the two sons and the one who came back to life (known as the Prodigal Son).

Fun this Thursday Night

Want to join us for a movie this Thursday Night?

Also: Snowshoeing this Sat. at Mt. Hood (check back Thurs. for details).

Laura and I are reading Half the Sky right now (I just finished it) and really want to go to this Movie event. It will introduce the authors of the book and several people working to free women around the world who are enslaved in many different ways. I was very touched by this book and especially how it focuses on direct connections we can each make in freeing people around the world. There will be some featured music and then a short film.

The short film is about a young girl in Ethiopia who, with her father is fighting back. It's an inspiring story. I just reread it in Half the Sky.

Let us know right away if you want to go: Here's a bit more info.

The movie: Half the Sky: a one night event

Where and When: Regal Lloyd Center 10 (Link) at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $11.50 at the window ($12.50 online)

Links: The Event

Book review

Review of the Filmed Event (Link)

Want to come play with us? Check it out

Thursday March 4 - Our Life Group (some of us) are going out to see a movie (not your normal movie) - It's at Lloyds Center and it starts at 7:30. What to join us - it will be an adventure! Want to do dinner with us? It's possible :) More info - email me at bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

March - at least two Saturdays we are doing snowshoeing: Our Life Group and others friends were planning on going March 13, but Living Hope is now doing 2nd Saturday project so . . . anyway . . . email me if your interested (I'll be posting when we're going hopefully this week).

How to give more: thoughts I hope to share with our friends tonight

For more on this story about this eight year old boy (pic. right) - go to www.lhceast.com

This last weekend our family looked at the subject of “money” once again (at church). I’m thinking that with so many organizations talking about giving, Laura and I should talk about money even more. Why?

1. Knowing where you stand and why is a good thing: Our values and motives can change colors throughout each chapter of our life. Re-evaluating brings clarity in how and who we spend our resources (money, time, and thoughts).

2. Having your eyes opened-wide, very wide, to the subtle “fear based” appeals we meet on the "Short track" of life can help us better decide which investment is best for you.

Note: These two points are really abstract so you may want to hand copy them on a card and read them several times each day for ONE week. Keep asking yourself, "If I could reinvest all my resources from 'Last week' how would I do it over (time spent shopping for that "specialty item," that "Almost $3 Haagn Daz Dark Chocolate, ice cream bar," or that person you could have invested in but didn't)?

The following are some questions, a few passages from the Bible, and “who knows what else” that Laura and I hope to use for the small group of friends we hang out with every Thursday evening. I can’t wait for tonight! :)

Have you ever fall for a “get-rich-quick” investment opportunity? It might have been as simple as one of those opportunities to save $5 or $10 bucks - like getting a “non-family” member into the zoo for free. However big or small, it’s likely we’ve settled for a “microwave-now savings” more than once these past few months. Think back to one of those "I'm saving" opportunities and ask yourself, "Was it worth it?" Have you reflected on the long-term cost?

Digging deeper – Mark 10:17ff is a key story of a “Rich, Young person” who is serious about getting advice from Jesus. It’s a great story (Click here for more).

What would be worse than losing all your financial resources? Make a list of 10 things you feel you “couldn’t do without.”

Our motivation for giving is often tied to a feeling of obligation. Perhaps it that someone did something for us (maybe we didn’t deserve it). Maybe someone has made such a significant contribution to society that we feel like “freebee-user-loser-types” if we don’t join the cause. Gratitude can easily elicit a “What should I do?” response. I hate it, but I suffer with this all the time (my sister is even worse :). Zac, the little Dubai-rich guy who climbed a tree to see Jesus, was so thankful to be accepted by Jesus that his spontaneous question was “What more can I do? Have I done enough?” Jesus answer is shocking for those of us trying so hard to show our appreciation. A similar response came from those who heard about Jesus in Acts 2:37. Thousands cried out in one voice out, "What should we do?"

Here’s a common problem; like Zac (Link to Story), we can easily feel like we “must” do something. Then we can get “sideways” in our thinking and began “performing” in order to be loved and accepted. In the religious world it’s simply called “works.” Here are some “I’ll deserve this if it kills me” antibiotics –Romans 4:4-5; Ephesians 1:4-5; 2:1-10, and Romans 6:23.

If your still hungry try doing 10 sets of these two verses (do 3 reps, very slowly for each set -LINK). Have an invigorating workout!

Finally my friend (Are you tired of reading yet? Be honest :), my friend Pastor John said to me last week, “Sacrifice is the way to blessing.” Do you believe this? It could sound a bit religious. Especially if your Guilt-bank is full. I believe it's true. What might be the perimeters that make this a true or harmful statement? Again, do you personally believe this, how has this belief or disbelief, added to your life this week? Try reading one of my favorite “relationship tips,” Proverbs 11:24-25 (LINK).

Who will you invest more in today? Who was the lucky person yesterday?

Valentine's Report Card (We WON Gold!)

So it's over and my sweetheart has decreed, (several times) that this was the "best" Valentines ever - I think she's right! The truth is, in spite of my dedication to preparing for this love-memory, it was a series of Miracles that really made this 26 hour V. date unbelievable! And the Miracle of having such an amazing Father to mentor me for many years.

SO, why am I publishing this (yes, my love language is "words of affirmation" - go ahead, tell me what a great job I did - ha . . .)? My biggest motivation is the possibility of even one more couple pouring into their friendship all of the resources, thoughts, prayers, and creativity humanly possible!

My father was the world's greatest lover and inspired hundreds of people (I think perhaps 1,000's) by the way he loved my mom. I DID NOT choose my parents, so all I can do is continue to be so grateful and then give back as freely as God gave to me. Here the recap report card from our Valentines date! I'm hoping it will make a GIGANTIC difference in your life!

1. Sat. night Laura got her first two cards (the first one she opened said she would have to wait until Feb. 15 to read what was inside. I had taped it with shop tape to make sure).
2. Sunday after the wedding (5 p.m.) I did in Canby Or. our first get-away stop was at a Starbucks in Wilsonville. We laughed as we went past the Thai place where we have had dinner with our special friend Ginger (no Thai tonight) - such fun memories.
3. When I then turned off of I-205 heading East on Hwy 212, Laura asked if we were going to Timberline Lodge for dinner ("I gave her 5 guesses, but she wasn't willing to play that game . . . She knows it's hard for me to keep a surprise. I answered her with a big "No!" It was fun because then she didn't know where we were going).
4. The moment I turned off of Hwy 26, at Welches, Laura knew we were going the the Resort. But she didn't know that I would park next to "Building 7" and there would be a "stick-um" love note on the door of room 711 signed by me! Opening the door she could see the Champaign and Dark Chocolate-covered strawberries. The room was wonderful - original art work on the walls; a bathroom shower that was to die for; time to relax with the fireplace going and watch a bit of Olympics before going to dinner. We walked to dinner and had such a relaxing Valentines time. I gave her the bracelet and earrings I had bought - they were so perfect; the black dress she wore so make the moonstone rocks and other gems stand out. Then we walked in the mist back to our room (I had successfully got everything we needed for the night, except her hair brush and pants (I got all our ski stuff, work out clothing, and some cute tops - but forgot to grab any jeans . . . who needs pants at Valentines?).
5. Two more cards, one at dinner (made in Austria) and one anxiously waiting on the bed finished off a great evening. The final card was the "funny one."
6. Monday morning was a nice miracle - I actually slept in until 8 a.m. and then snuggled and dozed next to my sweetheart until 9:20 a.m. (Even with the sleeping prescription meds. this is an unheard of event . . . I wasn't even nervous)! Laura was amazed, and so happy . We didn't check out until noon. Here are a couple shots of us getting ready for the next part of our adventure (Nothing was staged - right :).
7. The miracles of how God blessed us with Sunshine, some helpful people at Government Camp, and the rest of our day kicked into high gear. The owners of the Ski shop directed us to the perfect snow-shoeing place to try out our new snow shoes we got at Christmas. The beauty of Mt. Hood crowned in sunshine was so fantastic. I had researched some great places to have lunch or dinner at on Monday, but couldn't remember the name of the place I wanted to take Laura. The Ski-shop knew instantly which restaurant I was talking about - this is a miracle, because we had decided to to turn at Zig-Zag and go shoeing in that area (we found out later there was not snow there). At the last moment I had decided to proceed up to Government camp to look for some different boots for Laura -We wouldn't have found out the name of the wonderful Restaurant or found a great place to snowshoe. The Ski shop owners were very cool people and we had fun meeting them too!
8. Snow-shoeing was such a blast and taking pictures a wonderful break from our normal life (more pictures to be posted on my Facebook). We had Beef-jerky for breakfast and lunch so by the time we got back to Welches to eat at the Rendezvous (link) we were hungry. We started with a Yukon potato and Delecata squash dish covered with Raclette cheese appetizer (Little pre-mature baby Cornichon pickles and marinated red onions garnished the delightful cheese roof of this delightful appetizer). The soup was a yellow lentil-squash-kale-curry soup that was some of the best soup I've had in many years (they are famous for their soup). Several people have made that "sour cottage cheese face" when I tell them about the soup, but the proof is in the taste-buds - seriously taste stuff! Then we both chose the same Smoked Chicken Ravioli with Champaign sauce main dish - it had hazelnuts, cranberries, and mushrooms added; and, oh my, it was unbelievable! I wanted the salmon or halibut but . . . The drinks, the deserts (all made there) are all made there - We didn't know it, but this was their Happy-hour menu. We laugh, because not only did we get to share some of our India stories with the waitress, but then she told us, after our meal, that our food was 1/2 price. It doesn't get any better (at least this last Valentines)!
9. After resting our little Honda in our driveway, Laura did a show-n-tell, for the kids, of the Jewelry I had given her (including earrings from the Art/book store next to Rendezvous). Laura also got a kettle ball (I got her a 5 lb one) and the new massage book -Reflexology of the feet. Like the gift of Dance lessons I gave last V. day, this gift surprised Laura into a laughing spell when she opened this gift. Her eyes still large, and in a dumbfounded tone, she asked me, "Are you really going to massage my feet?" I've had a serious "anti-foot fetish" (I can't stand touching feet) for many decades. I decided last week that this was something I could overcome (I've not tried it yet, but will). Laura's family has a long history of giving each other foot massages (it's very scary). Laura also got new snow gloves and of course, the new snow hiking boots. All of this, including the night out and two dinners, added up to less than some nice diamond jewelry (wow - budgets ARE a good thing :).
10. We finished our Valentines experience by watching a bit of the Olympics with our family. Dropping into our own bed so that the 5 a.m. alarm thief didn't destroy us was so welcoming. Before falling to sleep, we began dreaming of next February 14. My wife truly felt like the princess God has called her to be - we both were so grateful for God's lavish love and the way we were able to share it with several people we met. I've got a surprise started already that will be given to Laura next year on February 12! Your not to late for starting to plan for 2011 (single, married, or in a special friendship - YOU CAN DO IT!).