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going for awhile.

Five.

The greatest day

of your life is the one on

which you decide your life

is your own. The gift of life

is yours - it is an amazing

journey - and you get to

determine the quality of it.

Live the next five years on

purpose. Now is the time.

Imagine the possibilities.

Go places, have adventures,

make a real difference, do

what you love. Follow your

dreams, they know the way.

"Dan Zadra"

A book simply with the number "5" as the title with a sub heading that reads
"Where will you be five years from today?" caught my attention when I put it up for sale as apart of our new merchandise for Thanksgiving season at Starbucks. We only received two copies and I bought both of them. One for me and one for Alex.

Friday Night, Alex and I went to my Starbucks and just
C H I L L E D.

We had an awesome conversation which brings me to why I bought this book. We wanted to write a song. We didn't know what we wanted to write the song about until I started to unload my feelings on her. Everything that I have been feeling for the past couple of days. ((hence my quote,unquote "depressing/emo" statuses.)) She started to write ideas that spurred from our conversation in a random blank journal. We came up with an idea...

"The pain from a RISK taken and failed will last but for just a season. The regret from not ever taking that RISK will be forever."

That brought me back to when I first read Dan Zadra's quote as I put the book on the shelf. Life is happening now. And right now is a good time. "5" is a book about life. A book that asks you the simple question: "Where will you be five years from today?"

This is your life, your one-and-only life. Over the
next five years, what do you really want to do? What
do you really want to have? What do your really want
to be? Where do you really want to go? There are no
rules here. this is not a work book, it's a play book.
This is not a "here's how" book, it's a "why not?"
book. So be daring, be bold and be true to yourself!

I have always been asked the question "Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?" And I intend on finding the answer and taking "that" risk. All with the focus and intent of staying in God's will and not my own.

I want to make my life count.
I don't want to regret not taking that risk.
I will dream and I will dream BIG! ((why not?))

SO

WHY

NOT

ME?

WHY

NOT

NOW?

Can you tell that I like this book? And all I have done is skimmed it. So go to Starbucks and get this book. I will leave you with one last thought:

You will never have more time that you do right now.

Many of these quotes in this post were written by "Dan Zadra"
Thanks Dan.

Just Felt Like Posting This.

One of the only people I can always count on.

I love you chewy. You always bring a smile to my face.

Question #3

What is the best/favorite way that YOU like to worship God?*

*NOTE: 

And don't tell me what I wanna hear.

Be Real. 

If the way you worship best is serving others then say that rather than "Oh lifting my hands in the air... " ((not that doing that is bad in any way shape or form)) 

November 2, 2008

Question #2

This may sound like a stupid question and very shocking for some people that I may be asking it. But look at this question as if someone you never knew who just became a new Christian came up to you and asked you.

"What is so bad about cursing or swearing?" "What is so bad about saying 'bad' words?"

October 24, 2008

Question #1

Why do we as human being feel we must look, act, be a certain way?

October 22, 2008

Questions of Why.

I'm not going to explain why I will randomly ask these certain questions, just comment an answer if you will. Answer by any means necessary. Thanks.

Wow, just Wow. :) -> Seeing Mrs. Palin

Thousands lined up outside of Germain Arena to participate in the Road to Victory Rally, starring Sarah Palin. We, My Mom, Hunter, Mrs. Howard, Alex, Ben & I arrived there around 10:30 and got at the end of the line which was at that time probably 1,500 deep. Many vendors lined the line selling buttons, hats, t-shirts, bumper stickers and much more. As the good Americans that we are we decided to participate, showing our support for the McCain-Palin ticket as we purchased multiple buttons. 

The doors soon opened at 11(ish) and people slowly inched through security. We finally got in and were directed to a certain section. That section was in the back, you know those people who sit behind the candidate while they speak. Ya, that section. Although that would have been really cool, we didn't come to get on T.V. or look at the back of her head the whole time, we came to see and support her.  So we walked through many rows and found seats that we liked. The arena, slowly filled and continued to fill and fill and fill! It was packed, many were turned away.  

Finally, the moment arrived Sarah is in the building. The lights went down, the spotlights shone, and music, applause and cheers filled the air. As soon as Sarah Palin stepped on the runway, the crowd went insane. I was overwhelmed with emotion and on the verge of tears. WOW! It's her, it's really her! I still can't get over it. wow. 

Her speech inspired, compelled, and touched the thousands that filled the arena, and millions that watched it on T.V. Man, I just freaking love her! She is so awesome, refreshing and exciting. I really wish I could vote for her ticket, but since I can't, you the readers of this blog, who are eligible to vote, Get out their and vote for PALIN! 

Before, I go I want to tell you about this one protester. He kept yelling at her while she talked about Iraq and the war. Sarah being fed up yet extremlly composed turned to face him a said "Sir, My son is in Iraq right now fighting for your right to protest" ((that was paraphrased)) the crowd responded with a thunderous roar. This creeper was escorted out while we cheered. More hecklers were escorted out while making rude remarks about the war. Sarah proceeded with great poise and pride. 

God Help Us, God Bless America, our Troops and God Bless SARAH PALIN and that other guy she's running with, oh ya Mr. McCain. :) 

wow, just wow.

Go HERE for a lot more Palin Pics.

Coming Soon.

Coming Soon: I have a cool idea for a post that I will write about soon.

Coming Soon: My Birthday is on Wednesday! 17! YES! So is Chewy's and a bunch of other people. Very cool, yet weird.

Now Playing: Go see Eagle Eye.

Coming Soon: More Change.

Coming Soon: A surprise.

SOLO.

As you know the new me has come with many different changes. One of those changes is me doing my devotionals. I recently purchased a devotional unlike any I've seen or done ((which sadly hasn't been many)) called SOLO. SOLO is written by the people who brought us the Message. The subtitle for the devotional is "An Uncommon Devotional". I knew I wanted to do something different not just the same ole same ole and when I picked up this book at the Family Christian Store, I didn't even know what I was getting myself in too. And I'm glad I ended up getting this book. 

OK, so enough intro - let me tell you why I like it so much and why you should grab a copy. 

Each day you go though 4 steps; Read, Think, Pray, Live. The passage is there for you on the left-hand page ready for you to dive into. Underneath the "Read" section, it doesn't just tell you to read it and move on it tells you different ways it wants you to read that specific passage. It's pretty cool. Under "think" it gives you key points to dwell on etc. and then lead you right into a "pray"er time. It gives you a starting point to pray that day or you can just pray how you feel led. Last but not least it gives you a point to 'Live" on for that day. You continually think about it during the day and remember what you learned in just that brief moment you shared with God earlier that morning. 

I hope that if you haven't found a devotional that works for you, that this one will. 

I give SOLO 2 thumbs up ((wow I feel like a critic... lol)) 

Well, that's just my point of view... :)

-Daniel 

Thank You Lord.

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! NO WAY NO WAY!!!!!!! Can you believe it? I got a car!!!! :) A MINI Cooper S to be exact. WOW! So here is the story. 

A couple weeks back my dad and I went out to look around at cars for me. We looked like every where and test drove a bunch and then ((cue angel Ah Ah Ah and Oh)) we see it. A MINI Cooper. My heart skipped a beat. This is my dream car. We pull into the Audi dealership just to get a look at the price. Then it escalated into something I never could of imagined. Everything was right about this car. It's so awesome you just have to come see it. :) So anyways we end up in the chairs on the other side of the dealers desk-trying to work something out. The car was out of our price range and we thought we could talk 'em down. Slowly but surely we did. It ended up not working out. To make a long story short my dad was still and contact with the dealer and it seemed to be a big NO DEAL and I was trying to move on and find something else. BUT then today my parents show up to pick me up from work with the car!!!! WHAT?!! lol Man I'm just so excited and even now while writing this that my thoughts are all jumbled together. I'm sorry I wanna tell you the whole story, if you wanna know. LET me say this though. It is only be the grace, goodness, and love of GOD and My Saviour Jesus Christ that it is possible to for me to have this amazing blessing. 

If you surrender to God and try your best genuinely even through the hard times He will come through. Praise GOD. and THANK YOU THANK YOU SO SO MUCH. wow :)

On My Way.

Well I just wanted to give you guys a little update on the new me.. It
is such a struggle!!! Wow.. But I have been doing so much better. My
mom bought me this new devotional book called "Solo" by the people who
wrote the Message. It has been really good so far and I am really
enjoying being back in the Word and doing a daily devotional. Me and
brothers sign our intotionals on the calendar to show that we did 'em.
It is also encouraging that they are making an effort in doing their
devotional too. I tell you what you can totally tell a difference when
you are on or off them. Kinda like medication.

Well right now I am on my way to Rock The Universe 2008! Ashtin and I
have kinda made it a tradition to go. We really enjoy catching up with
each other and hanging out. She is such a cool person that goes
through so much and I admire her for that. When we are together we are
basacally always laughing! Haha! We arn't even there yet and I have
come to tears two times already from laughing so hard! Lol.

Soccer: Remember how I told you that I was doing soccer? Well come to
find out I'm doing pretty good at it and I really enjoy it. Except for
the fact that many times I'm on the "skins" team when we scrimage.
Ugh! That is not my thing: public body exposure. Haha! Oh well take
one for the team right? I also look forward to progressing in the
sport. Hey I got a home game, Tuesday around 4(ish). Come and you'll
get a good laugh. lol

Well I'm on my way in more ways than one. Check back soon. Ttyl :)

Sent from my iPhone 3G :)

The New Me.... ((continued))...

Well I know that the 3 readers who read my blog know that I am trying to re-invent myself. New, new, new! Well there is some new stuff that I would like to inform you about. I am now officially a soccer player. Never dreamed of that in my life. Today was my first practice and besides the killer heat it was thoroughly enjoyable. I really think that I am going to like it! BUT guess what I am also doing Cross Country. Two sports in one season is really hard to do and I am just now beginning to realize that. I don't just have a full plate, I also have 2 side dishes filled and and 64 oz. drink...filled! I am juggling work, school, friends, sports, God and church all at the same time. I know that God needs to come first and foremost and I really am trying to put an effort into my relationship and trying to make HIM my number one priority. It is very, very challenging and I am trying not to get caught up in all the other things and stay grounded. 

Next Subject. I need ask a question. Ok my new style. There're are many pieces in my wardrobe that some people would think would be "gay". Such as white pants, sleeveless hoodie, & a suit vest. Now just for the record for all of you who have ever questioned my orientation "I am straight!" I like girls, let me rephrase that I LOVE girls. lol. OK. well anyways let me move on, should I just work (<-gay word) the pieces I've purchased or what? I am sick and tired of always having that question being presented to me (("Are you gay?")) and stuff like that. You know, you get sick and tired of people asking you the same question over and over. AH! What do you think of this whole deal? hmm. I'm trying to be myself and not let anyone get me down so ya. 

I know I went off on a little tangent and all, just asking for some help. 

Well thanks for having interest in my life. Love you guys. 

A Fresh Start.

Well it's hard to believe that I am a JUNIOR this year.... ! WOW! A junior, it just seems like yesterday that I was a freshman! Anyways just want to update you on what's going on in my life, on a more personal note. ((I hope that I don't regret this)) 

As many of you Facebook(ers) and Tweets know a couple nights ago I wasn't in a very good mood. I was so ticked at myself, my parents, & my life. I was so overwhelmed with just stuff, I really felt like dying. I'm just struggling right now with so many things: Financial Issues, I want a CAR!, work related issues, school just started back ((not a struggle [yet] lol)), certain relationships that I have, just a bunch of stuff. Ok, Ok you are probably saying "But you are only 16!!!!" I know, believe me I know! But ya the things we go through, and it only gets harder. So here is the good news. 

So after just being fed up I ran to my room and let the flood gates open. Cue the tears. I was so frustrated and angry I didn't know what to do with myself! So I stayed in my room until the next morning. As time passed in my room I calmed down and popped in my headphones turning up the tunes. But this "listening to music session" was far from normal. I decided that I was going to listen to some Christian Music ((normally when I'm mad I blast Kelly Clarkson.)) -Casting Crowns to be exact. I listened to their whole CD... Lifesong. It was incredible. I was totally wrecked. It totally just spoke to me right where I was.... no scratch that GOD totally spoke to me through them right where I was. I put it on Shuffle, skipped through a couple of the "Happier" songs and then listened to the rest. Three of the songs spoke to me the most: "Does Anybody Hear Her?" "Praise You in This Storm" and most of all "Set Me Free" As "Set Me Free" filled my ears tears filled my eyes. I was broken. That song totally is where I'm at right now. Wow. I cried out to Jesus in my own room, laying in my bed, at night. God truly can speak to you anywhere. It doesn't have to be at church or sunday school it can be anywhere. 

Before I forget I also listened to this amazing song "Jesus Draw Me Ever Nearer" by Keith and Kristen Getty. Cried all through that one too. 

This is yet another turning point in my life. During the Lightforce Trip God totally rocked my heart and I made a big step in His direction. That was such an awesome experience and I'm so glad that I had the courage (through Him) to do that. It still has been a daily struggle to continue on the path that He wants me on. That night that I just described was another one of those "rock your heart" nights. It just reminds me that I still am a Child of the One and Only Creator. And that He still wants me on His path going His way. Also that I need to cast all my cares on Him. Isn't He Amazing? :)

I will leave you with these three verses that are hanging on my bathroom wall. 

Philippians 4:6-7 (New American Standard Bible) 

6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Matthew 6:33 (New American Standard Bible)

 33"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Thanks God. :D

Brandemonium No More!

School Shopping is here. This is one of my favorite and least favorite times of year for this reason New Stuff but also a New School Year. ((blah)) Anyways this year dare I say "I want to reinvent myself?" I DO! Ok this might sound drastic but I am well on my way to becoming a new "Daniel". Here's the deal, no I don't want to change my personality but yes I want to change my style and many other things that come with that. 

BRANDS BRANDS BRANDS!!!!! No don't get me wrong BRANDS are amazing. Ahhh! For all of my middle and high school career I have been consumed by them especially the mac daddy of them all for teens-and me ~ Abercrombie and Fitch. I shutter at these words now. I refuse to be branded with those words ever again. My deal now is that I want to expand my horizon with fashion and how I put things together. I just don't want to buy what's in season at Abercrombie and feel like I'm in style because of it. NO! 

Now I'm not boycotting brands all together. Not at all! What I'm trying to say is that I'm moving away from what the majority of teenage America is wearing. Let me tell you my inspiration for my new style. Wow I can't believe I'm gunna write this.... My inspiration are the Jonas Brothers. Whew! But I don't want to be a wanna be brother I want to take what they have done or recreated and recreate it to fit "my style" and my budget. :) 

So this year I did not make one purchase from Abercrombie and Fitch, not even Hollister! ((Gasp!!)) Instead I choose to buy things at Dillards (Polo Section... Yippee SALE) Target, American Eagle (Just Jeans), Polo Ralph Lauren OUTLET, J Crew OUTLET ((Praise God for Miramar Outlets), Guess and Old Navy. I know that many of these are huge name brands but ya I think I explained myself above. 

Soo, keep a look out for the "new" me! :D

I'll get to it.... sooner or later.

So I feel bad. I feel like I have to have responsibility with this blog. I feel like I have let you readers down, by not daily updating it. I haven't finished the Europe trip posts or even the iPhone 3G release post... wow... I'm going down fast.  But I will get to it... sooner or lat

Here's to you Rascal.

Well today, August 14, 2008 is a very sad day. OUR dog Rascal was taken away from us by it's owners (our next door neighbors) who had lost him a month and a half ago. I'm just very frustrated right now, we have invested so much love, time and money into this dog and we were very attached. Puppy/Doggie as would call him was an awesome dog and now it will be very hard not waking up to him licking my face our jumping up on my bed. It will be hard not seeing him curled up sleeping on the couch and hard not having those daily walks with him. 

It will just be hard. I'm very frustrated, mad, and sad. 

Well here's to you Rascal, we love you and will miss you terribly. I love ya bud. 

Love, Daniel

Not just any old sand... Normandy and Omaha Beach.

Now off to France, we hopped on a ferry ((Brittany Ferry)) from Portsmouth England to Caen, France (around Normandy) The Ferry was way more than a ferry, it was more like a miniature cruise ship. It was about 3-4 hours across the water and when we arrived another little drive to this very remote Accord hotel. lol but it was very close to the NOrmandy attractions. The hotel was so interesting though, especially the bathroom, specifically the shower. Haha, ummm it was open, like it only has 1 pane of glass and didn't close, it was halfway open. What an interesting experience. Oh and by the way none of the staff knew any english, broken at the MOST. Rooms were cool too,balcony and an upstairs w/ 3 single beds. 

Morning come and we are on our way to "Point du Hoc" Ok [first of all] this whole experience dealing with NOrmandy was just a moving experience. Point du Hoc was Hitler's Atlantic Wall and a German gun battery. [feel free to correct me if I'm wrong] When we got there it opens up to this grand view of both OMAHA and UTAH beach. I could just imagine soldiers fighting and firing guns and waging war. You could see all the damage done by the war bombs (from the aircraft) and also from the ships offshore. YOu could see the ruins of the bunkers and the pill boxes, etc. WOW! Then we went to the Normandy Cemetery and saw all the graves of the men who died in WWII. We also saw a grave that was used in [the movie] "Saving Private Ryan" ((I'll have to tell you this story later)) Anyways finally we get to OMAHA beach. WOW! [again] I cannot believe I am here ((remember the reoccurring theme)):) Just being in this presence, I have heard over and over in countless history classes about D-Day and OMAHA beach and just wow, I'm standing in the sand where this all happened. We even got some sand! We then proceeded to listen to [a guy][I will edit this with his name later] speak about the events here and other different insights that he has had. Unbelievable [as Mr. Crain would say] ((We also ate french banquettes on the beach here)) 

[DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE SLU 301 PICTURES AS I CONTINUE TO POST THEM]

Stonehenge... Just a bunch of rocks... lol

Here we go off to France! Actually wait [how could I forget this] I almost forgot. Before we headed over to France we made a couple [of pit] stops. We only one - Stonehenge. Stonehenge - ok well in my mind I had the picture of the Windows default background [you know what I'm talking about] and also I had the image of it being foggy and eerie with light rays shining through. So we pull up and its there like right there! ((by the way that is a reoccurring theme throughout this trip along with "Am I really here?" and "I can't believe I'm doing this!")) Ok so we pull up and get like 15 min. to wonder and stare in amazement at these mysterious stones. [time was up and now it was] Lunch time: we headed over to a sheep free meadow [pasture I think is the correct term] to have a picnic and listen to the welcome speech given by Brent [Crowe] So Cool! SLU 301 has officially begun!