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!).

Valentines Emergency instructions (for men & women)

Valentine's Alert: You are already late Superman! If your a women, you've still got time :)

Men: First you need to begin with "imagination" - Yes, daydreaming! It's one of God's amazing gifts (The Dark One knows this so He big at twisting it).

1. Set time each day to imagine your sweetheart and how much "more" you are "who you are" because of her! Then jot down words that are descriptive of what she means to you - Pick a word and then use Google or Word to look for synonyms. The more you practice this the better will be the words you write in those cards (plural) your going to buy her today! Get her a cute card (ask a woman who is shopping the card isle if you are clueless - you can tell your wife you risked looking stupid to get her the best card - Because she "so deserves it!" Then tell her that next year you're going to graduate to finding the ultimate card "all by yourself." Cute animal pict. cards are usually a big hit (If you are not yet at a "401 level" Valentines card-shopper then be very careful about buying one of those sexy sensuous type cards - it could backfire). Multiple cards placed in unique places - the Car dash, at her work, at the gym she goes to at 5 a.m. on Saturday (One early V. card is very cool - my first one will be delivered tonight). Next year plan to mail one (like real snail-mail mail) so it arrives on a couple days before V. day.

2. Gifts, and cards, need to match the season of your loves life (warm, excited, refreshing, adventurous, tender . . . ). If they also speak to her love language then you can really hit a home run (or win the gold metal in the Giant Slalom event)! Candy isn't that cool unless it "very unique."

3. Start some "invisible gifts" a couple days before: I cleaned the kitchen and family room two days ago. I gave Laura a deep tissue massage last night (I bought her a massage table & book last year - I'm learning how to give sports massages). She's not even aware that these are "foreplay" gifts - Remember guys, women are like an expensive diesel Mercedes - warm those glow-plugs up before trying to turn her on - but get them going and they run forever! Men are like Funny-cars - Jet fuel, very squirrelly, but real, real fast (they last about 4.7 seconds and then the parachute brings them back down - ha)! Nascar is cool!

4. Surprises at Valentines are excellent (One year I did a CD with wedding pictures on the jacket and the top 12 love songs from the last 20+ years of our love story). If you can find a a female friend who has great taste (my youngest son is very wise when it comes to buying clothing and jewelry for women - I use him sometimes) you get her to help you buy some great jewelry for that special woman ( I've found some incredible stuff in the price range from $7-220. Get that guy a very cool watch - Suunto has amazing watches - I love the one at Costco that is a heart-rate watch - very cool watches - really! I SO hit a home-run this year for Laura (an unbelievable unique bracelet and ear rings - I think she'll just melt). I've bought very unusual books; one year decorated our Volvo as a Love-mobile, and this year I've got a Resort destination decorating a "get-away room, with fireplace." AND in the a.m. we will do European Lawn bowling and croquette . . . Then we're off for a snowshoeing adventure Monday afternoon (Don't tell Laura as it's all a surprise). All of this starts at 5:15 p.m. Sunday after a wedding I'm performing - send up a smile and prayer for us, ok? :)

Catch this . . . I've got friends that mistakenly believe they are NOT creative; they call me and together we see home-runs (I had a wife call me this year for ideas - very cool).

V. DAY IDEAS FOR GUYS: buy a Wii fitness for your wife & set it up with candles and music - dress in funny 60's exercise gear and DO the Wii with her. If you think she would like to get out, you might do a marathon of stopping at YoCream near IKEA - by the airport, then off to a cool little restaurant in Portland (spend the time on the web or call someone like Dondi T at Living Hope - Don Taylor in Portland is a walking yellow-pages) - Try something in the Hawthorn district (amazing sushi there) or NE 22nd or 21st area in Portland are fantastic! I once bought champaign and some Larson's Bakery "delights;" then finished the evening by "parking" under the big planes landing at the airport. Parking if you've been a couple for a long time is a very cool memory lane experience (Oh my can Laura kiss like WOW . . . sorry, I'm getting a bit excited). I'm really into bracelets right now (not the tennis diamond kind) but funky, unique, cool bracelets - You need know what setting she will best wear it for (ask someone who's an expert) . . . The one I got this year will dress up so well, but also works so well on a casual date!

THINK ABOUT THIS LADIES: A very cool gift is the "Kettlebell" (I've got a 15 lb. one and it's one of my favorite workout tools - Google it & see what it is (They sell them at Big-5, Walmart, and Walgreens). Download some cool "Youtube" exercises and then tell him you'll get sweaty with him - Great for core work, hip flexors and bum! Now for that brave married couple: set up your room with a digital camera and camera stand. Buy Valentine's boxers & a teddy (for you :) Use the Kettlebell as a prop. Buy or make up some Blank cards ahead of time, then after doing your own photo shoot, you can print print and paste them in the cards (keep them in your "safe" and they will bring so many smiles and laughter in the years to come).

Does your special guy play golf? Try a lesson & video analysis from Golftec (near the airport) - from beginner to bogy golfer they will enjoy (Laura takes me golfing for father's day - it would work well for Valentines too).

Cinetopia, in Vancouver is another unique place to dine and watch a movie - the seating is a must for any movie over 2 hours (Living room theater or even their Grand theater - If you've not see Avatar yet this would be the place to go (reservations or great food to eat while you watch in 3-D). Most guys and gals will really like this movie.

SUNDAY AT 8 A.M. OR 12:30 p.m. YOU COULD JOIN LAURA AND I IN EAST VANCOUVER FOR A 30 MIN. "FROM INDIA WITH LOVE" story and video clip extravaganza. You will be inspired, touched, so filled with love - some fun food treats too (check it out right now)

Remember, my romantic friends, great friendships are made up of people who are experts at expressing how valuable the other person is to them (in the language the "other person" best understands) on a regular basis. The other key ingredient is a continual showing (display) of commitment that says, "I'm there for you - forever. I've got your back - I'm stuck to you - very, very sticky!"

Every year I hear someone putting down Valentines: I could care less how commercial Valentines is - really, I'll use every opportunity I can to express to my sweetheart (more than 35 years loving this beautiful woman) how wonderful her friendship, love, companionship, and life is to me (Don't worry, Laura won't get conceited as she doesn't read my blogs)! I got started late this year "imagining" how valuable she is and how best to express it this Valentines (But I still think I'm going to score the winning touchdown . . . I can hardly wait to find out . . . must run get a couple more cards). Dream on my friends, daydream about the one you love - then study as to how s/he will best hear it from you this Valentines!

I'm thinking and praying for you this Valentines - everyone can find someone to share a smile with - God bless . . . now GO FOR IT! Be brave, adventurous, risky (in a good way). The more vulnerable and real you are to those you love, the more they will glow with God's love!

Hey, Check back next week for my Valentines report-card update :)

LIfe in 2010 - My Agnostic Friend sends $1 to India

"I'll pay for you to come hang with me at the Gordon Avenue, Battle of the Bands show tonight." I wasn't desperate, just promoting! I shamelessly plug my son's amazing band (Try reading the words to perhaps, his most violent song - Gordon's blog is a must read - LINK UP right now).

My friend (the $1 guy) is a Salvador Dali of the English language when it comes to the art of writing. He's smart (way) and also very numb to the plastic religious rhetoric of our prehistoric voodo fears (lies wrapped up in King Jimmy colloquium) that make "Religion" evil. He's sarcasm and pessimism blended in a powerful juicy blend. I love this guy! Every time I think of my "$1" friend I'm reminded of Acts 17 and the hidden reality that "God is really much closer to us than we can imagine. (bga translation). I will always choose relationship over religion.

So, at the "you-could-catch-something" Satyricon I met my very sincere agnostic friend (he's a very loyal guy) and we caught up on the Foo Fighters and some really great movies that we hope to watch together this year. Without warning my friend reaches into his right pocket and deposits his $1 on the cement counter (CSI would have so much fun analyzing the past mayhem of this establishment ). "I don't believe in your God," his smile and twinkling eyes matched his enjoyment of the moment. "But I do," he continued, "believe in you, my friend." To which I whipped out my pen and promptly asked him to sign his dollar. I promised to carry his dollar to India and I also warned him that my Best friend-Creator-God can do big things with $1 agnostic, U.S. bills!

The show was the best Gordon Avenue has done (they won the evening competition and are now in the finals). Seeing fans sing along, and the great energy - it's so cool. My friend casually mentioned, before he left, that he reads my Pastor Dude-friend John's emails, blogs, and other communication (Pastor John we're team-wrestling this guy for God - pretty sure we'll win). S my friend is moved by the movement of somebody to DO SOMETHING! Hey what will you DO with your "one and only life." Who will you invest richly in? "We can't do everything, but we all can do something!" (Guess who said that these last few months?). Pray for that agnostic dollar (and the giver) - I'm very excited to see what the Best Being in all the Universe will do with this very significant move. Let me say it again, "Every $1 Laura and I take to India with us will make a forever difference in the life of someone who is NOW in darkness!" Keep checking in on the latest re. our trip (lhceast.com).

What you invest in, with all your passion will shape your values and dreams! Who should you spend more time with right now? "It is possible to give freely and become more wealthy, but those who are stingy will lose everything." Proverbs 11:24

"But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice," Philippians 1:18

Absolutely fantastic Movie! State of the Avery Union Address - 2010

State of Our

A very Union in 2010

Falling in love again this a.m. with a fantastic movie – intense, bloody, incredible picture of love – for humanity and a woman! A movie that I forgot how much I loved – cinematography is more than WOW, the acting is killer and the young heroine is whoa!! Plus (bad way to start a sentence, Mrs. Stoops –right?), a lot of people say I look like Clive Owen, the lead actor).

And you can read about my first breakfast of pizza, potato pancakes, shortbread cookies, and great coffee with a filled-cupcake (one of Laura’s secret recipes) . . . the future of my two boys and our wonderful granddaughter (what Laura is doing on her new computer – hint: has to do with India and REI). Read me please! Happy New Years 2010!

We welcomed in the New Year by continuing to add to our sleep deprevation – up until 2:30 a.m. watching season 5 of LOST.

6 a.m. fell out of bed, without injury, and stumbled down the stairs without falling . . . finished sermon for cell-phone-India preaching (Dr. Kumar didn’t call – no response to my last two emails) . . . interesting way to remind me of my “control-freak nature” and God’s amazing grace (not mine) . . . glad I got up!

Started with Laura’s amazing filled-cupcakes (1^st made for trip to Mackinac Island, MI in 1985) . . . let us know if you want the recipe – very good tasting, very bad on my desired-six-back :) Pizza custom remodeled from New Years Eve. Wishing I had bought some Stumptown coffee. Praise #101 for 2010 – I was .4 lb lighter this a.m. that the 31^st! Thanks to Laura and Julian Michaels (Laura killed me for 50 min. via Ninja Workout queen – Julian angry workout queen; what a way to finish the Old Year!).

Marcus let us watch Elena (age 19 months) last night (to bed at 8 – she blew me kiss and said “night-night” in the world most heart-melting voice (It’s so good that she doesn’t know she could milk me of all my assets with her voice and those huge beautiful eyes . . . protect me Father, please!). She woke up at 9:05 for another hour go-around (not so happy this morning :)

The movie? King Arthur (Director’s Cut) – Jerry Bruckhheimer (I like CSI). The picture of how evil Religion is (especially when God’s name is attached) is so clearly seen in this movie. The concept of freedom in this rivals Braveheart. The accuracy of what Roman era Britain was like is very impressive for a film (one of the better portrayals would be Edward Rutherfurd’s Sarum – all of his books are fantastic – they are sociological portraits of a country over more than a thousand years – London and the Ireland saga’s are wow! They are historical novels at their best – great way to see how evil the dark-ages church really was!). Back to the movie. It’s an artistic marvel of color and shadows with sensuality, deep philosophy, and serious questions about psudo religion and people we think are far from God. This is one perfect movie for our big screen and creative thinking boys! This may be my favorite movie (with a few others also being my favorites)! There is so much room to see how God is using Living Hope in our current society (NOW you’ll really thing I’m crazy). I like this movie more than Braveheart and even more than Gladiator. Intellectually it bumps up against the Truman Show for intriguing insight into God’s gift of Free Will (choice) and the very cool way God reaches out to those who don’t have Scripture (see Acts 2 & 17:). Warning: lots of ketchup in this movie (bloody) and very real questions about voodoo-fake religion. So re-fell in love with this movie – WOW, what a morning.

Following this sensory hors d’oeuvres, my main course was Oswald Chambers, Chapter one of Ecclesiastes (wow – so powerful after watching this film- I’ve got a bunch of notes on this chapter – will share in a future blog – perhaps this week) and re-reading chapter 3 (Read Dec. 30^th). I still have to read Proverbs one and my section in 2 Corinthians I’m reading.

Today – Finish the LOST finale, read more, give my wife a great massage on her very cool massage table, back Christmas stuff . . . more India Mission trip planning (visit this link!).

Elena talks so well . . . is so tall for her age, so physically coordinated . . . so, so beautiful (lifted my 7.5 lb dumbbell last night) . . . Tennis, golf, cycling scholarship are waiting for her, I’m sure!

Marcus – there is no better 21 year old father in the world! Seriously. He such a fun guy to hang out with!

Gordon – at work already with his Kid’s World Team (NO, nearly 25yr. old man is as disciplined, hardworking, and talented as him). His music will touch millions – I seriously have no doubt. I believe it’s God’s destiny for him. You should consider seeing his concert this Sunday in Portland (Link). You might consider subscribing to his blog (it’s a relationship building giant – very impressive).

“We can’t do everything, but ALL of us can do something!” For $1 you can make a forever-difference this year (Link)!

Fall in love with God (even more) in 2010!

After Christmas wipe-down report

Christmas of 2009 remembered

Biggest hit: Elena's electric car (her favorite companions are her new doll and Camelback water bottle - her very own; v. cool)

Best Bang-for-$: My very cool Kettlebell (I've wanted one for a long time - there are s

ome very excellent exercise you can do easily with anything else - love it - there's a pic on my previous blog).

Most practical: New bathrobe and slippers (Oh my my kids went over the top on these - best quality - like'n lots).

Still waiting: To take down our bigger tree (16+'), to use our new snow shoes (Great dates in sight for my sweetheart and me!).

Hot: My favorite cologne from my favorite girl!

Remembering- still: The annual "It's A Wonderful Life" movie night with our whole family; The 45 min. "Avery Christmas story" we've read for 33 Laura and Bruce Christmas Eve's. I will not forget how much my kids love giving to their mom (Yes, she got more than 20 gifts - the most of anyone in our castle!). And our Christmas celebrations on Dec. 4 at our East Vancouver Campus and then the Week of Christmas shows at our main campus - so inspiring to see thousand of people focus on Jesus. The most wonderful gift was the hundreds of people who said "yes" to Jesus' forever-friendship this month at Living Hope (even the bad Camel who is also a donkey killer - sad story).

Tomorrow (perhaps): New relationship possibilities, Our January 14 trip to India (Laura, Gordon, me & a several friends), and continued investment in those friendships we've been given. Praying and wishing YOU a very grand Happy New Year!

Pictures of my cell-phone preaching in India, 2009

10 Great Gifts to Give (Some of these are very creative)

Top 10 Healthy, Long-lasting, Christmas gifts – 2009

1. Investing in the East Van. Living Hope Jan. 2010 India Mission trip!¹

2. Buy a “Blue”² exercise ball or balance ball, or maybe a Kettlebell^2a w DVD³

3. Pick up two pair of “Snow shoes” or “Cross Country Skies” for winter fun.⁴

4. Send someone a subscribe to Nutrition Action Healthletter (www.cspinet.org).⁵

5. Look for cheep Yoga and Palates DVD’s at Target, Fred Meyer as a “resource” gift.⁶

6. Create a card that pays for (& joins them) the STP Bike Ride in 2010.⁷

7. Give a subscription to a cycling, running, hiking, or golf magazine.⁸

8. Purchase a Pedometer along with 52 “Free Walks” certificates.⁹

9. Buy a quality Body Fat/Water scale.¹⁰

10. Buy two heart-rate monitor watches and add 52 “activity card invitations.”¹¹

^{1­­ Think of someone you love who needs Jesus in their life. If God has someone who would be able to connect with them and the result would be life-changing, how much would you pay to see this happen? What if it would only cost a dollar to connect them together and see Jesus’ love flood this person’s life? How quickly would you invest this dollar? For every dollar Laura and I now take with us to India (Jan. 14) one person will receive a new life in Jesus! Email me – bruce.lhceast@gmail.com. $25 per month rents a new church in an area where there are NO churches; $50 per month gives full-time support to a pastor and his family to serve an instant congregation of hundreds! Your endorphins will thank you. You invest even more wisely into what God has given you to manage in the future. Others will be inspired and their spiritual, emotional, and physical health will be directly or indirectly improved.}

² These are the “exercise balls” that are used for sit-ups, push-ups, waist/side-strengthening exercises. Get the Large size (about $14) and keep it in your Family Room. The color doesn’t matter :-). Use while watching a movie or TV. Strengthening the “core” is critical to protecting back injury or healing damaged back, hips, & knees!

^2a These are unique exercise weights that are excellent for flexibility, strength, and speed. You can get them with a DVD/CD at Kohls for a good price (Big 5 has them too). I’ve seen people use them to do both cardio and muscle strengthening at the same time. Remember, if you or your friend doesn’t have a workout partner it’s not going get used.

³With all exercise equipment, you need first build a “team plan” or it’s going to be a worthless gift/investment. Buying any exercise, weight-loss, or health-improvement “tool/system” is silly unless you have a detailed plan to grow a team around you to help develop this new discipline into your life! Catch up with Bruce for details as to how to start. This will change big areas of your life! Promise!

⁴­­Costco has them! REI has a bigger selection at a much bigger price!

⁵­­This little public Health letter is one of the very best – readable, fun, practical help in every issue. AND they have received no money in their 35 years of print, from the Government or Industry. They don’t sell any advertising space. It’s a very trustworthy source for health tips. It’s the largest Health letter in the world, and oldest.

⁶­­I like to buy these, then glean off of it some exercises that really work for me. This is a cheap way to find some great stretching and core strengthen exercises. My hip flexor exercises came off this.

⁷The STP is a fully supported bike ride from Seattle to Portland. Bruce and Laura will be doing this ride in 2010. We will be doing the two day ride. We camp half way. We will have a great time – also having made our own Living Hope Jerseys with the finest European materials :).

⁸­­The people you hang with and what you read and view does influence your lifestyle changes!

⁹Get a good quality Pedometer, like the Tanita (www.thecompetitiveedge.com). Making up 52 certificates that promise to “walk or hike” is what makes this a great gift. Having a measurement to set goals does help a lot of people aim for something and actually reach it!

¹⁰­­­­Again I love the Tanita brand – quality. Measuring fat, muscle weight, and keeping track of your H²O hydration levels is a much better way to measure health. I set a goal to reach before I bought my scale – I love it. It really motivates me and gives me the right goals to focus on.

¹¹­­­­This is one of the very best gifts for anyone who exercises regularly – walking, running, hiking, going to the gym. Why? Almost everyone’s body reached a level after a few weeks of repeated activity. We have no way of knowing if we’re improving or not. Buy a heart-rate watch that also measures calories burned and you can see your heart rate, see how much you burn and now do something about it. When I’m about to take a walk with family visiting for the holidays I often climb our stairs before leaving the house. I then jump around, play around and get my heart rate up to about 128 bpm before we even leave. My entire leisurely stroll will see more calories burned because of this quick 2 min. warm-up. I can swing my arms or jog up and back if I desire. These monitors are now very affordable and really can improve your health. Timex and Polar are two pretty good brands.

Want to read my Christmas blog (Dec. 2)?

Surprises, Burning Calories, Making Headlines - Luke 2:8-20

Check out Luke 2, verses 8-20. I love this story!

Luke 2: 9 "suddenly . . ." (King Jimmy uses the wd "lo") - a demonstrative particle (WOW!); in other words "Check this out" (the dramatic "pause" in a film; the surprise sound effect).

Verse 10 "Don't be afraid." There are two kinds of fear in the Bible; One when I follow my way (sin) and the other which is a deep admiration (awe) that gives us goose bumps from the beauty, power, and goodness of someone we value immensely! What kind of fear do you have in your relationship with God! "Don't be afraid!"

Verse 10 "good news of great joy. . . " Greek = mega chara (Mega = Super, super, super-sized deep-heart-warmth). The word "joy" is part of the same root from which we get the word "grace." God wants us ALL to have deep inner peace that "in the end" everything will be alright (no matter what)! This is a great gift to get VERY excited about!

Verse 13 "Suddenly. . ." Have you been surprised yet today? If not, why?

Verse 16 "they ran . . ." The Greek word, "speud0" is where we get the English word "speed" and "Speedo" (Do not wear one, please!). What would be worth "running" for in your life? The after-Christmas 90% off bins? An opportunity to clothe and feed the homeless? The chance to serve love and hope? To kneel before the One who will change your life forever?

Verse 17 "The Shepherds told everyone . . ." What kind of Facebook invitations are you going to share today?

Verse 18-19 "All . . . were astonished, but Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart and thought about them often." Two very opposite reactions; both very cool, both to be treasured! Are you still astounded? By what? What have you "treasured in your heart and thought a lot about" this week?

I plan to finish Luke 2 tomorrow (I also plan to publish my Top 10 Healthy gifts List).

Hey, don't forget to read Proverbs 23 on the 23rd of December (a very cool chapter!)

Please join Laura and I - This Sunday @ 7 pm

Laura and I would so love to have you disrupt your plans this Sunday afternoon and join us for our son's concert at the Hawthorn Theater. Our son's band, Gordon Avenue, is playing through a new booking company and we are very excited for this mini-Christmas Concert (one Christmas song - ha). Four other bands will be playing.

Here's the deal - the tickets are only available online and none will be sold at the door. Even if you don't want to go you could buy tickets and support a great musician (Gordon is now working on his second album - an acoustic one). If you can make it or you want to send someone else it's all for a great Christmas boy - Gordo!

Hawthorn Theater in Portland

Sunday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m.

Ticket web site: http://tickets.aftonshows.com/Gordonavenue

or check it out at www.Gordonavenue.com

Fantom fears of noisy people

"Wicked people flee when no one is chasing them, but those who walk "straight" are as confident as a lion." Proverbs 28:1.

The word "wicked" as used by that smart guy Solomon is "Noisy" or "one who makes a commotion." When my life is following chaos I'm tormented by lots of fantom fears. How badly do I want to have confidence like a lion? It requires that I live a "straight" life (this is the word us

ed in the Old Testament of the Bible for "righteous.").

It's so easy to be filled with random, unreal fears. Yesterday while we were cutting down trees for our Christmas our son Marcus suddenly cried out "Watch out." Everyone fled (baby in arms), only to discover it was a false alarm (not only was the tree still standing strong, but it was only the baby of the two we brought home (a ten footer).

I was thinking this morning. I had no clear plan while my son tortured that harmless tree with his "un-woodsman-like" blows. I was mindlessly wandering in my ADD world and not even looking out for my wonderful little granddaughter's first tree-murder experience.

Many of my random dashes into fear-driven running is because at that moment I'm without a clear plan. Life isn't straight because I've either got the wrong map or no map at all. Today I get to consciously say "Thanks" for the presence of my best friend Jesus whose Spirit is in me and will keep me authentic, straight, and real! No Fear, my favorite Lion is near! Happy post Thanksgiving!

Come Climb a COOL Mt with Me!

Want to Climb Mt. St Helen's Tue. Nov. 24?

Ok, I'm so excited and if you would like to try this 7-12 hr. snow climb with me. You can email me and I'll share all the details. You will need snow shoes (REI rents them) and winter gear. I can share with you more details. We will leave Vancouver at 4:45 a.m. and be getting our passes at a lodge near our start at 6 a.m.
The challenge, beauty, fun together, and 8,000 calories burned may make it worth it! Let me know if you want to go. We also are looking for ONE Mountaineering coat to borrow if you know someone who is the lending kind.
Email me at bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Bruce & Laura's Random, Wild Roller Coaster Ride (in-process thoughts)

The details of the following stories will be updated throughout this week

He stood in a cold, wet, empty parking lot . . . I could tell by the sound of his voice, this out-of-control business man was about to jump off the edge of the world (more on this miracle story soon)

Gun in mouth . . . 19 years old . . . the end. The whole story to a family blow-up. A family breaks up; a young man my boys went to school with comitts suicide - the story of the funeral Laura and I participated in on Saturday (Why the deceased's Mom wore Wedding clothes to the funeral).

What you many have missed on Movie Night (the review of a very grand "scary movie.")

What 60 people experience on Sunday afternoon . . . so cool, so courageous, such a great pay-off (you've got to check back on this story).

The grim details on Bruce's pre-Thanksgiving climb up Mt. St. Helen's. You might decide to join him on this 8 hour climb (details to help you to decide - coming soon).

Monday Ramblings . . . Mt. Biking . . .Oswald Chambers . . . Why I hate Religion!

So nice to be riding with my sweetheart at 5:17 a.m. today (Laura rides to work and I get to burn about 550-650 cal before the clock hits 6:30 a.m. - my Cardio is doing great now!) and then I'm gifted with about three hours of quiet-time in Oswald Chambers and the book of Proverbs (So fell in love with Chapter 3 of Prov . . . today is chapt 5 - the 5th of Oct . . . get it?).

Yesterday Laura and I slipped away before being brought back into the Pit of Despair (not the Movie, rather the Seahawk's playing the "perfect quarterback" and a most impressive team) . . . We Christened my new Mt. Bike (the picture is the ONE & ONLY Laura snapped on her first try with my Blackberry) by trying to find "single track" on Larch Mt without the use of a map (we used my Verizon GPS - not good) . . . after one hour we ended up on a private road . . . the East side of the Mt . . . after 20 min on our bikes we found the single track (Gordon and I will revisit it today). Laura IS the most amazing girl/woman/mother/best-friend/girlfriend/lover and "Adventurous Queen" in all this world! Want to know why (of course you do)?

I didn't have time to change out her Mt. Bike tires (Her bike was the best of our Mt. bikes before I got my new one - hers is only 15 yrs old). Laura's bike still had road slicks on them. She also was using Clip-in Pedals for the first time (on a Mt. Bike) and trying to do some serious single track, mud-roots-rocks &logs: All of this with Mt. Bike slicks! Who in their right mind would do this? ONLY someone in love with her "man" and wanting to be with him on his virgin ride! She also road down a steep gravel and rock trail to get back to our car (her bike has no shocks) . . . the hard -pressure-filled slicks transfered everything to her lovely hands (I did promise her I would get her shocks for her bike . . . this is where you feel compelled to send me money!) . . . :)

We endured the SeaGawlks (with new friends) and then went to bed early . . .

I just finished reading four days of Oswald Chambers (O.C.) - these are some of my favorite of devotions . . . here's one of my TOP 100 of O.C.

"After every time of exaltation we are brought down with a sudden rush into things as they are where it is neither beautiful nor poetic nor thrilling. The height of the mountain top is measured by the drab drudgery of the valley; but it is in the valley that we have to live for the glory of God. We see His glory on the mount, but we never live for His glory there." Mark 9:22 From Oct. 2 - My Utmost for His Highest

I was struck well: Look for God in the beautiful, majestic, the mystical and on "out-of-this-world single-track trails!" These Mt. Top experiences (gifts) most often brief (very powerful, concentrated stuff), and usually spontaneous in nature. But they DO recharge, refuel, us for the dark, normal, boring, and everyday world we live in. It's in the valleys, we get to Live out the Love HE First Lived into us (Totally, because He wanted to - see Ephesians 1:4-5; 2:1-1-) - I John 4:19!

Allow and celebrate any Mountain tops God gives to you today - Remember not to live there - come back down and expect God to use you to touch someone else and perhaps give them the inspiring hope needed to never give up on Love! Have a great day!

Try this great Salsa recipe

Fresh Salsa (Bruce & Laura)

Roma tomatoes (10-12)

Corn (1.5 cups of corn – fresh/frozen/crisp-canned)

Black beans (1 can)

Fresh cilantro (1/4-1/3 of bunch – to taste; cut & dice fine)

Cumin (1/4 tablespoon)

Salt (to taste)

Fresh Limes (juice 2-3 limes)

Avocado (2-3 "very firm" Avocados, diced)

Optional – Walla Walla Sweet Onion (1 chopped fine)

I dice the Avocado’s last; then salt and pour lime over them before re-mixing and refrigerating for 1-2 hrs. before serving.

Salsa, Salsa, Salsa

Don't get tired . . . If you check TONIGHT (Tue, Sep 29) you will get our Salsa recipe and more! PROMISE (I hope:)

Promised links - Gordon last night (v funny), Amazing song & video I'm about to order

Hey if your not in a Life Group then you are missing a gift that's right on your door step.  Last Thursday was weird, at first, being the ONLY guy at Life Group (4 women).  But how surprising to see God's encouragement and the recharge that all of us got from doing Life Together!  Here are the promised links I spoke of - The clip of the film re. forgiveness in Rwanda is amazing (I'm going to buy the film)!

But first check out what I missed last night (Family Night at Living Hope Church) - this world famous illusionist and ventriloquist used my son Gordon as a prop - very funny!

Gordon sings and dances

Father Forgive them "Hill"

Forgiveness in Rwanda

Notes from Last Thursday Life Group

Sunday Afternoon - Come play in the Rain w US!

So, the BBQ and worship at our East Campus is already a given - BE THERE!  (Link for more) . . . BUT our family, and friends, will take our golf umbrella's and drive up to beautiful Stevenson to the XFest Show (LINK).  Gordon's band - GORDON AVENUE will be playing at 3:15 p.m.

We will most likely stay for the Chick Band (Oh my, really????) and goof off . . . You should join us (email me - I'll get it on my phone - Brucea@livinghopechurch.com).

NoonDaySun band link

Don't sit at home - let's get out (wish we could golf :)

Smoke Signals, Learning to hear others better!

Our Life Group had a grand time sitting on the patio and eating some outrageously good food together this last Thursday: here's a review and some added notes from our time sharing about the challenge of great communication.

Question:  Who is the hardest person for you to co

mmunicate with on a regular basis?  Why?

Why wouldn't you want to communicate well with someone?

If I hate someone or want to hurt them then I don't care how well I listen, open my heart, and come closer in my friendship with them.  We love, I John 4:19, because God loved us FIRST!

Question: What does great communication look like?

1.  It hears the heart (intent) of the person

2.  Defensiveness is very low or non-existent

3.  A natural result of great communication is we care more!

Question: Do you know how good your doing communication with those you love, work with, and those "far from God" who need to see His love?  How do you measure your effectiveness?

Bruce and Laura use 3 "C's" to check up on how good their communication 

is with each other. C1 - Do we feel CLOSER as a result of our communication?  

C2 - Do we CARE MORE about each other as a result; and 

C3 - is there greater CLARITY (understanding), we hear better?

Communication includes a blend of words, expressions, tones and actions!

The level of value and commitment are constantly affected by our communication.

A big, bad, very disturbing Scripture we read and discussed (with great gusto):

I Kings 13 (This is NOT a bedtime story . . . caution)

1.  Does God tempt us?  Read James 1

2.  Why doesn't the story beat up on the lying prophet (he gets off scotch free - NOT fair!)

3.  Is is hard to know if it's God, my own self, or Satan speaking to me?

When dealing with difficult stories in the Bible it's good to review some basic principles for the study of God's Word:  1.  Context, Context, Context (read before and after; then know the people this was first written for - Children, abused-barbaric-slaves, the culture.)  We need to remind ourselves - God came down in human skin so we could understand Him - Scripture uses the language of the people to whom it's given! 2.  What's the point (the message)?  What life change is God wanting to bring?  In this scary story God seems to want to say, "Don't listen to other voices when I've made it clear what your to do!"  Balaam's donkey (Numbers 22).  Many weird theologies and misunderstandings come from missing the point (usually there's ONE big one).  3.  Look at the BIG Picture!  How does this match with God's character (what He's like) and very clear stories and Scriptures (for example:  God is Love and perfect love throws out fear - I John 4:18.  When I see fear as motivation in Scripture it's often of human origin.  In the Psalms it often means Awe or deep respect.  When reading "hairy" stories like the one above, look for the cumulative picture of God from the entire Bible.  This is usually best seen when studying with a group of people seeking to come closer to God.  Prayer, a desire to know God's plan, and a willingness to follow help open our eyes to God's way - Read James 1:5 and I Peter 1:3-7.  

Who do you need to reach out to, in their "language,"  and share Jesus with?  We are God's LIGHT on a hill so those in darkness can clearly understand and accept God's forever-love!