Snow and the Joy That it Brings

The snow has once again arrived. This time though it looks as if it might stay. The only thing stopping it from staying is the warm weather we have had. We have only had a couple of actual cold days, compared to literally hundreds last year. To this statment, I have nothing to complain about. The only thing right now that I have to complain about is the fact that things are getting slippery. Personally, this is the big reason why I don't like winter. I love the beauty that arrives with the snow, but I can't stand hearing about all the accidents and deaths that are caused by the icy conditions. I have not yet been in an accident, and I hope to never be in one. I pray for safety on the roads for absolutely everyone that is driving, and hopefully the number of accidents decrease this year as opposed to last year. All I can say is drive safe, and don't take stupid risks. Keep a level head, and watch out for those icy spots!

Crunch Time

This is my favorite part of the year. I love all the papers due, all the final assignments, and all those wonderful exams. If I only believed that. Actually, it is exactly the opposite for me. I dislike all these papers, I despise these final assignments, and the final exams disgust me to the core. I procrastinate all year, not worrying about the end of the semester. But when the end of the semester actually comes around, my mind goes for a spin. Words of hate are at the edge of tongue the entire time. The only thing that I look forward to in this time is when everything is finished. Here is my schedule. Due this Friday is a 9 source, 10 page paper due for western civilization. Also due Friday, is an assignment for Spiritual Formations, and another assignment for Judaic Studies. Due the following week, is a feature story for this class, a 10 page reflection paper for Introduction to Bible, and a 7 page paper due for Spiritual Formations. Luckily for me, two of the three due next week are done. Man- o'- man am I going to be relieved once all of this is done!

Full Weekend

Ahhh... the smell of the hardwood, and the atmosphere of a game excites me. This weekend the Providence Freemen go on the road to face MCAC rivals. First up is St. Boniface. In their first meeting, the Freemen pulled out an impressive win with a score of 67-37. The hope this time around is to continue with the intensity, and dominate like last time. We will have to continue with our defensive pressure, and will have to shoot better than we did last time (unimpressively shooting 27% last game).

The final game this weekend will be a much tougher game then the first of the doubleheader. The Freemen face off against the Red River Rebels. The Rebels bring to the table a sharp shooting lineup, as well as some big post players. This matchup will be a tough one, but hopefully, in the end the Freemen pull out with a victory. LETS GO FREEMEN!

Hope in Midst of Disappointment

As the college season wears on, the nerves that were built up decrease drastically, and the confidence grows. This being my freshman year, I have had my up and down times. At the beginning of the season, the nerves were going wild, but now they have basically decreased to nothing. Also, as the season wears on, your playing becomes better. When you get in a comfort zone, everything seems to fall in the hoop. Tonight, the Providence Freemen took on the CMU Blazers in a rivalry battle. In the first meeting, CMU torched up the Freemen winning with a score of 83-51. Tonight, the Freemen were looking to turn the tables around. The game started out sloppy, but the half ended with CMU up only 9. But as the game wore on, the momentum shifted to CMU's side, ending in another defeat for the Providence Freemen. Even amidst this loss, the Freemen have a lot of positives. This game for example, was not a torching up like the last time these two teams met. The game tonight ended with a score of 81-62. It may look bad on paper, but the Freemen played really well in stretches. They drove to the hoop on many occasions, trying to draw fouls. They didn't seem to come very often, but this constant pressure being put on the oppositions defence is worth something. As the season wears on, the games will become better, and the team will begin to gel. We Freemen have to keep our heads high, because their is hope on the horizon.

So Tired...

I like my sleep. Sleep revitalizes my mind and gives me energy for the day ahead. I actually get excited when talking about sleeping in. Today was a complete opposite of my dream sleep. Since coach couldn't make it out for an evening practice tonight, he decided that we were all going to meet in the morning instead. So, I said fine, as long as it is not too early. Well, it turned out to be particularly early. Early as in 6 in the morning. So, me being a commuter and all, I have to wake up a few extra minutes earlier than normal so that I can get there in time. So this morning (I still consider it night that early in the morning), I woke up around 5 am. My beauty sleep was ruined, and my day is shot. My classes this morning were a drag, and I am yawning like every 3 seconds (exagerated, yes). This has been a very miserable morning. The best part is, I have to do it again tomorrow morning! Yay for morning practices!

The Time is Now

Anticipation and excitement filled his mind. Basketball had been Chris' life since he was a little boy. Having grown up in a home where only he and his brother played basketball, the drive for the game showed. He had to show his family that he was good enough so that they wouldn't find his hobby a waste of time. But the game turned into more than just a hobby. Fierce competition made his craving to be the best a big time goal. Nothing was worse than losing. Every night prior to a game, the nerves would jump, but once the game came around the nerves had to stop. It was all about showing confidence and showing that the skill he had was not wasted. And now after years of playing with passion and determination, a real step had arrived. This moment had been years in the waiting. Countless games had come and gone, but now is the moment where it counts. His life as a college basketball player was just around the corner. Time to show everyone what he was made of.

The day had arrived, and the nerves began to build up. It was game one of hopefully, a long and successful year. This game might have been considered an exhibition game to most, but to Chris it was a early season test. Was he able to play at this level? And more importantly, was he able to play at this level competitively? It was time to find out. The ball was thrown up, and the game begun. Back and forth the game went. Players were slashing to the hoop for easy layups, and shots were being thrown up. The game started off really sloppy and stayed there for most of the game. Obviously, the nerves were going off like a party in the stomach. Airballs were thrown up, and turnovers were rampant. Nothing seemed to being going right for either team.

As, Chris got subbed in the nerves continued to go crazy. The first few shots didn't look great, but as the game wore on, the nerves began to subside. Shots began to fall, turnovers didn't happen all that often, and the game seemed to come to him in a fluid manner. The game seemed to be fading away from his team though. The lead for the other team increased little by little. The opponents drained shots from all over the court. The fourth quarter began with Chris' team down by a bit. They were never able to regain the lead, but they were able to keep the lead at a relative stand-still. At the end of the game, the opponents won by around 20 points. It was a good first game for Chris and his team, but they weren't able to pull off a victory.

Game one was over, and it was time to fine-tune their play. The first step to his college career didn't go as planned, but overall the nerves didn't control him. All that was left was to go out to the next game with the same intensity and to bring home the victory. Only time will tell what the future brings.

Butterflies

Man, am I anxious! School is making me stress because I seem to procrastinate all the time. Basketball is making me stress out because this is my first college season. The eyes are on me. The fans are watching my every move, and so are my teammates and coach. The Butterflies in my stomach are having a party. They are just rocking out. What makes things worse is that I have my first official league game this Friday. The nerves continue because this is what they like to call a statement game. I got to get my head in the game early and make myself a threat right from the start otherwise my nerves will have gotten the best of me. I got to come out shooting and willing to do anything that the team needs me to do in order to win. So this Friday at 7:30 pm the moment will arrive. Hopefully, I can overcome the nerves and play like I mean it. Lets go PROVIDENCE!!

I Wish I Was a Coach...

I sometimes watch basketball games and find myself criticizing players and their coaches. I think, why are you not doing this, and why are you calling such ridiculous plays? But then I think to myself, I probably wouldn't do any better. But after yesterday's Raptors game I couldn't help but criticize. The game was a close one. The Raptors were in Phoenix, Arizona playing the Phoenix Suns. Both the Suns and Raptors play extremely well on the offensive end, but play no defense. This style of play leads to a lot of scoring and a lot of fun. Throughout the first half, the Suns held a narrow lead. But once the Raptors came out after half it became a different story. The Raptors pulled ahead and stayed ahead until the last minutes of the game. In the end, the Suns were able to keep their composure, take the lead, and after all was said and done, win. But one play caught my eye. The last play of the game, the Raptors are down one, the ball is in their newly aquired shooter. But then I ask myself, why not give the ball to your star player and let him work it out? If he can't get it done, then kick it out to your shooters! What happened instead, was they let their newly aquired player dribble out the clock and take a wild shot instead of taking the ball inside. Stupid, stupid, stupid! If I were a coach... oh boy if I were a coach!

Moon Life? Nah.

Today, a discovery was made. The huge discovery came after a trek to the moon. Found on the moon was water. And not just a little bit. There was actually a lot of it. NASA found a dozen, two gallon pails full of this water. This obviously lead to the ongoing question. Is there life on the moon? I think it's a joke, but people believe that there is life up in space. Im kind of making up the fact that people said this, but I think it is fun to talk about. Anyways, since there is water up there, that must mean that life does exist up on the moon right? I find it absolutely hilarious that people can really believe that life can exist in space. To me, the solar system is a big, empty place where things are dry, and no place for a living environment. I love watching the alien movies, where people find a civilization either in space, or where the aliens come to Earth. For example, Independence Day. The Aliens come down to Earth and attack. They are interesting movies, but there is no way that life can exist up in space. Maybe it's just because I'm naive, but seriously.

Freemen Basketball

Last night at the Providence facility, the Providence men's basketball team played with heart. And Im glad to be a part of it. Facing a team from the city of Winnipeg, the Providence boys played hard and came out with a win. The game started off slow with both teams not shooting too hot. But after a few minutes the team from Winnipeg caught a hot streak. They didn't seem to miss. Luckily for Providence, we were able to keep close going into half. The score at half was 39-35 for the opposing team. After half, we came out on fire. Quickly bringing the lead to a tie, we took it to them. The third quarter was dominant, draining threes, and making plays was what happened. We held the opposing team to only 7 points in the third quarter, and beat them by 21 points in the third quarter. We held that momentum going into the forth quarter with some stifling defense, and some more fast-break basketball. We again were able to keep them from only scoring 10 points in the forth quarter. In the end, the Providence men's basketball team was able to pull out a win. Next weekend is the real test as we play 2 home games. The time is now!

Awkward.....

My life is full of awkward moments. My favorite moments are the ones that happen after high school. You grow up with these people your whole life but you never really talk to certain people. These people cause the awkward moments that I am talking about. For example, you see this specific person at a wedding or another social event. You see them from a distance and you know something is going to come up where you have to talk to them. The moment arrives (and you know it will before it happens), but it comes at you surprisingly. Anyways, here is the line that always comes up. "Hey you! Long time no see!", or "Are you going to college?". It seems like this is the line that comes up everytime.

The thing is these moments will always be around, and you can do nothing about it. Life is full of awkward moments and you just have to live with them.

Adios

Sunday marked an opportunity for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to show that they weren't completely useless. That didn't seem to matter to them on this particular day. With a chance to lock up a playoff berth for the upcoming playoffs, the Bombers did all but help. Their defense was brutal. Every short pass that the Hamilton TigerCats threw was caught, and almost every run was successful. only a few bright spots occured in this game. 2 interceptions is all that they were able to muster up. What made things worse was that the offense wasn't firing on all cylinders either. No player seemed to be playing with passion. Passes were dropped, thrown away, and just plain ugly on occasion. The Bombers were able to keep it close in the first half, but things went downhill from there. In the end, the Bombers lost 39-17 and lost all hope of making the playoffs. The TiCats on the other hand, made it to the playoffs with this win, and look to bring home the trophy. Maybe next year Bomber fans (we always seem to say this).

Billy Mays: July 20, 1958 - June 28, 2009

On June 28, 2009, Billy Mays died suddenly of an unknown heart disease. Known for his booming voice, and his blue shirt and khaki pants, Billy Mays earned the love and respect of people all over the globe. Mays lived a successful, and honest life making informational commercials on cleaning products such as Oxi-Clean. The use of catchy phrases was Mays forte. He made people smile, and knew how to make people laugh. Billy Mays was always in a good mood.

Billy Mays is survive by his wife, Deborah Mays, his 3 year old daughter Elizabeth, and his 24 year old son, Billy Mays III. He is also survived by both his parents, Joyce Palm and Billy Mays Sr.

Billy Mays will always be remembered for his on-air antics. But what make Billy Mays truly special is his life outside of the spotlight. His executive producer on his first ever TV show 'Pitchmen' said it best. "As great as a pitch man Billy was, he was an even better man, and an even better individual." Billy has left his mark on the world, and will be remembered by his family, and fans around the globe. Prayers go out to his family and friends.

"He sold more Oxi-Clean than Andy Warhol sold Campbells soup." - Dean Panizzi, Mays cousin and reader of his eulogy.

Procrastination At Its Finest

Another day in the life of me. School, eat, basketball, and sleep. Thats just what I do. One problem with this schedule is that I have left out homework. Homework just hasn't beeen a big enough part of my schedule. I am what most people would call a procrastinator. Always putting stuff off which in turn, leads to my destruction in the end. I end up scrummaging for dear life in an effort to finish the assignment. That only makes me more stressed. I wish that I could only have the ability to stay focused earlier rather than later. I wish that I could just get an assignment done earlier than the night before. Maybe its just my nature to procrastinate. Maybe Im just lazy. Sometimes, for only a day, I wish I had the ability to finish something way before it was due.

Gimme Your Lunch Money

Oh, the joys of childhood! Free roaming around, having no care in the world. Living life to the fullest is what some people like to call it. Some kids have the freedom of doing almost anything they please, while others fight for survival in the world we like to call school. Bullies are rampant on playgrounds nowadays. Kids get beat up, and some kids beat up. I find that this is a very unfair aspect of childhood. At least in my narrow view of bullying, the small vulnerable kids are bullied. Is it the small kid's fault that he gets bullied, or is it just because he is the easiest target? I find that bullies pick on the smaller kids because they want to feel in control. Possibly because they too were bullied by their parents, elder siblings, and so on. What I don't understand is what makes this life so enjoyable? As humans, many of us don't look at the future consequences of our actions. Bullies need to realize that their actions of hurting other kids, will have a lasting affect on not only the kids being bullied, but will also have an affect on their own personal lives down the road. They will always be portrayed as the mean kid on the playground that cared for no one except him/herself. They will always have trouble finding good friendships because people will be afraid of them, and not want to be around them. Also, all the people that they beat up will be on their conscience for a long time. And I have a feeling that many of them will end up living a life of guilt because of their actions. So here is my advice to anyone who wants to hear it. Know what you are doing, for what you do now, will stay with you for the rest of your lives.

'Lets Talk About Love'

Its a beautiful thing. Love makes a person warm, special, and when you feel loved you get all tingly. But the question is, what is true love? Is true love the feeling you get when you open up your presents on Christmas day? Or is it something that only happens when you are married? Can someone feel loved without these things? ABSOLUTELY. Here's an example! One day, a long, long time ago, a man by the name of Jesus Christ died on a cross for the sins of humanity. Wow, I feel tingly already. And its only just begun. He loves us when we make mistakes, He loves us when we're feeling down. Nothing earthly will EVER get in the way of His everlasting love. How does that make you feel about the earthly love you recieve? Makes it feel like your earthly love is pretty petty doesn't it? Everytime I hear the story of Jesus' death, I remember all the times I didn't feel loved enough. And then I think to myself, I am loved everyday, NO MATTER WHAT. It makes me thankful for all the wonderous things, and even sometimes the bad, because I know that up in heaven, someone is looking out for me. I know in my heart that I am TRULY loved.

Miracle in T.O.

Ahhhhh... the season has arrived. Teams are getting together, putting on a show, and making things happen. Last night marked the Toronto Raptors 15th year anniversary of the time they first stepped foot in the Air Canada Centre. It was a moment that will live on in the history of the team for a long time to come. The Raptors, having just come off an offseason transformation, were facing off against the heavily favored Cleveland Cavaliers. Not only did they have LeBron James to worry about, but now they also had to deal with the Big Diesel (Shaquille O'Neal). But in this particular game, the pair did not seem to be a problem. The Raptors started the game off strong, building up an early lead behind Andrea Bargnani's tremendous start. At half time, the Raptors had a commanding lead. This lead would soon dwindle, and would bring out the ghosts of Raptors past. Not ever being able to keep a lead, the Raptors struggled to find wins. On this night, the Cavaliers took over in the 3rd quarter of action. But the Cavaliers could never quite get over that hump. They were able to come within 1 point of the Raptors, but that would be it. The Raptors went on another run, to seal the deal. Lets just say that this is a HUGE sigh of relief for the Raptor faithful. Lets just hope that we can keep up with this stellar play.

Friendship

Friends are cool, and friends make me happy. They lighten up my day and make me smile. In most people's lives, friends are what give you a good social status. This is very unlike the past. For example, in the Greek and Roman days, peoples repetoire and prestige was given to them if their families were of noble status. Today, it is your friends. If you have a lot of friends you are considered to be popular in a sense. And if your friends are popular among other people, your status goes up.

It is a great feeling when your friends greet you with a smile and a wave. As simple as that sounds, it really does feel good. Humans have simple minds, and are happy with simple things just like that example.

If it weren't for friends, I'd be a wreck. If it wasn't for friends I wouldn't be having a fun time in college right now. I might not even be in college. So I just want to give a shout out to all my friends that have made my life worthwhile.

I Hate to Make Mistakes

Sometimes life gets you down. Life is that way sometimes and you can't let it get you down. In my life, I have a slight fear of rejection. I don't like to make mistakes because someone could be watching me. Even just the little things get me all bent out of shape. I tend to over dramatize things. I'll say something, and then realize I said it awkwardly or something of that nature, and then I'll go on a stressing out rampage because I have, at least in my eyes, ruined my self image. For example, everyday I go to school waiting for an opportunity to talk to the girl I like, and when that time comes around, I tend to make a fool of myself. And then later on in the day, I'm worrying that I have ruined a possible chance, because I said something wierd or awkward. But is it necessary? Also I hate it when I make a mistake on the basketball floor. For example, say my team is practicing. We end up getting to the scrimmage part of practice and all is good. But then I tend to get rattled a little. I rush things, and that's when I start making mistakes. If, in this situation, I were to just settle down, my mistakes would be fewer and I wouldn't have to worry about making those silly litle mistakes. I think my main issue here is that I tend to get rattled under pressure a little. More in the girlk situation than the basketball one but I do in both. I just need to settle down and take it moment by moment.

Good Effort

This past weekend was rivalry weekend at Providence College and Theological Seminary. The Freemen (men and women) soccer teams both faced off against their arch rivals, the CMU Blazers in a battle to become MCAC champions. First off, the ladies teams faced off against each other. After the first half, the Providence ladies led 1-0. But after a flurry of events and some bad refing, the CMU Blazers had 3 unanswered goals. The Freemen did bring up the intensity nearing the end of the game, but were only able to squeeze one more goal into the net. Many opportunities were missed, but the ladies played hard and gave a valiant effort.

Next up, the guy's game. Providence had beaten CMU every game they played this year, and that didn't change on this occcasion. Providence came out on top in the end 2-0. High intensity play helped them out in this one.

Next up for the Freemen soccer teams is regionals. This coming weekend the teams head off into Minnesota to duke it out with a few teams out there. Good luck to all the soccer teams, and play like you mean it. LETS GO FREEMEN!

LETS GO FREEMEN!

Rivalries are what make a sport competitve. Opposing teams talk trash, get in each others faces, and will do anything to not lose against their rivals. This weekend is rivalry weekend at Providence College. That can mean only one thing. Welcome the CMU Blazers. Competition always heats up as the Blazers come to town. Not only is their a mutual disgust towards each other, but there is always the bragging rights in the race to become the top Christian college in the area. This weekend there are a flurry of games against our so-called rivals. First on deck, we had the Women's volleyball teams facing off against each other. In a disappointing finish, the Providence ladies fell short in their final home game of the season. But the madness won't stop there. Sunday is the day where soccer gets under way. First off, the lady Freemen take on the Blazers in the MCAC finals. Whoever wins this, gets the glory for this year. In their last meeting, the Providence ladies took over the second half to take the game to a final score of 2-1. And last but not least, the men's soccer team faces off against the Steinbach Bible College. Whoever wins that bout, will move on to the next round to possibly face the Blazers again. So this weekend be prepared for some more rivalry action, and be there to cheer on your.....FREEMEN!!

Clear Your Mind

Sometimes in life you say stuff you don't mean to say, and do stuff you don't want to do. For me personally, I say things sometimes and then realize later that I said it. I then go into a stressing out state because, what if that statement offended the person, or what does this person think of me now? For instance, you like a girl/guy. You get nervous around this particular girl/guy. You fumble with your words and say silly things. And sometimes you say something that made sense in your head at the time, and then realize how much of a tool you are for saying that. You then ask yourself, have I ruined any chance that I might have had? Its hard to wrap your mind around this at the time you said it, but do you think they really care? If the girl/guy really likes you, they won't care what you say. The thing is, you have no idea if they do have something for you. So you run like a chicken with its head cut off, hoping for another chance to talk to them before time runs out for you. Everyone deals with situations like this no matter what. Its life. We (or should I say I) just need to take a chill pill and relax (But have I ruined my chances?).

Who is your Role Model?

Today my blog is going to be a little different. Im going to discuss what I plan to write for my feature story.

I am planning to write about role models and how much of an effect they have on the young generation. Specifically, athletes. All young kids grow up to have role models, usually celebrities, athletes, or other people of that nature. There is a problem with this situation. For me, I have looked up to professional athletes. One problem with looking up to such prominent figures in society is that they just can't seem to get out of the spotlight. Every little thing they do is publicized. I think that professional athletes need to stop getting into trouble. Plain and simple right? Well, it sounds pretty simple to us regular folks.

So in my feature story I plan on writing about athletes and crime. So many athletes nowadays are getting in trouble with the law, and I plan on breaking that down. So in the near future be prepared for what Im going to write. It will be interesting.

6 Days and a Bit!

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. This time of year excites me. The NBA is just around the corner. The next generation of players hit the floor, along with some very familiar faces. Anticipation is on the rise every day, not only for us fans but for the players as well. This is their career, and what they do every year determines what they get paid, where they live, and what team they play for. All things count. October 27th is the day it all begins. Nerves will be going crazy, and people will come together to enjoy this glorious event they call basketball. Go Raptors!

1...2...3...Click!

Christmas time is the time of the year where families get together to celebrate Jesus' birth. Also at this time of the year, families decide that they need to show off their families and show what good families they have. And that can only mean one thing. Family pictures! No one except my mother, likes the idea of family pictures. If the taking of these pictures didn't take so long, I might not mind them. But, when they take a couple of hours, that changes. Also to make matters worse, the Funk's don't co-operate. For me, its the simple fact that all my pictures show the fakeness of my smile, so I don't smile in the pictures. This only leads to my family being mad at me, and the photographer telling me to smile. I don't always co-operate. I am just hoping that one day in the future my family realizes that I don't smile and will just leave well enough alone. And also, we argue a little. Sit here, sit there! Do this, do that! Sometimes it gets to be unbearable. The problem is, every year we will, as a family have pictures taken. And when mom says were doing them, it's only respectful that we do them. She did raise me and all!

It's On The Horizon

Every day that passes, means only one thing. The NBA season is just around the corner. It's time to see which teams actually improved over the offseason and which teams made no effort at all. The Toronto Raptors for example have a lot on their plates. Over the offseason, the Raptors made a complete overhaul. And the most amazing part about this overhaul, was that they didn't lose their core players. They added without taking away. I believe the Raptors made a case for themselves. The pick up of Hedo Turkoglu started it all. After coming off a NBA Finals exit, Turkoglu decided to change things up a little. His choice was to join the Raptors. This gives hope to us Toronto fans. We now have a Finals caliber player on our team. We also, don't have to rely on Chris Bosh as heavily as we have. He can take over games with the greatest of ease.

All that is left now, is the season. A few questions remain amidst this promising change. Can these new players work together? And will all these new players get playing time? All I know is that this upcoming season is going to be one heck of a season.

H1N1 Flu Spreading Everywhere

It seems like professional athletes usually are pretty healthy. While people in the world suffer with various illnesses, athletes live the life. Anyways, today the H1N1 flu hit the NBA. Lebron James, Cleveland Cavaliers star player, found out he had a case of the flu today. Two others on his team as well, have had flu like symptoms in the past weeks. All of them were sent home after finding out what it was. At first, when the flu became of existence, I thought they stretched the truth a bit. News networks and other various organizations believed it would become a pandemic. In my eyes, the regular flu was worse. I can see what they were getting at now a little more. I still don't think it's going to be a pandemic, but it seems to be growing everyday. I still do think that organizations around the world should still focus more on the growing AIDS population, or even just the regular flu.

This particular flu is growing to new heights though. You know when the healthy group of people called athletes get it, that it must be doing some damage. All I know is that I don't want to catch any type of flu, any time soon.

What Are You Thankful For?

This past weekend was Thanksgiving. The time of the year where families get together, people eat alot of food, and most importantly people remember the things they are thankful for.

Personally, I am thankful for pretty much everything God has done and given to me. He has blessed me with a great family, great friends, good health, and plenty of other things that are too numerous to mention. I look back at my childhood. I see all the things that went wrong and all the things that should've (at least in my eyes) went differently. I then realize that if it hadn't been for that particular event, I might not be where I am today. God has and will always be there by my side. I just have to be thankful for everything that comes my way, whether good or bad. And in accordance with that, I have to show God my appreciation by giving back to Him. Whether it's expanding His kingdom, or just showing Him you care, every little thing helps. Also, be thankful more than just on this particular day. Be thankful everyday, because no matter what you say, God is blessing you.

Its That Time of Year Again

Summer has ended, fall is here, and winter is just around the corner. Snow has not come, but it might as well be here. The wind is cold and it seems to be gloomy everyday. People wear hoodies, long sleeves, and the occasional person is wearing the full gear (mittens, toques, etc.). I can't help but realize that this time of year seems to be the least favorite time of the year. Yes people get to play hockey, go snowboarding and other stuff in that nature, but everyone seems all gloomy. People sit around, watch TV, and seem not to care. They are in a zone. That zone is called the nothing box. The zone where people go in when they just want to do (surprise coming) nothing. I noticed this morning, as I watched Sportscentre, that people seemed to fixed into that zone. All eyes were on the televison. No one even seemed to notice when the 'Hits of the Week' came on. There were massive tackles, tackles that were even hard to watch. No one seemed to care. I even let out a few 'ooohs' and 'ahhhs' to see what peoples reactions would be. Nothing. Just me making a fool out of myself.

The only thing that happened this early morning was one game of pool. They too seemed as if they didn't care. Just going through the motions it seemed. And to further prove my nothing box theory, people around the pool table watched the ball every time it was shot. Back and forth, back and forth. And pool is a very intriguing sport to watch. Probably the best there is.

But then my theory changed a little. I found out that not everyone sits in their nothing boxes. There are also people who hibernate this time of year. As the minutes ticked away, people started to show up. The spirit in the room got more lively. People seemed to have more fun. The television was changed to the Price is Right. Good, old fashioned, family fun.

Personally, I really dislike the winter season. It's just too cold. My mind is elsewhere all winter. The only thing I look forward to in this season is Christmas. And that is still about three months away. So as I wait for that lovely time of the year I will sit in my nothing box. (twiddling thumbs).

Disruptive Behaviour

Fines happen everywhere. Speeding tickets, athletes getting in trouble and many other types of fines are dished out nowadays. Reportedly yesterday, a 10 year old boy and his parents were fined $260 for something their child did in class. $260 is not a big fine but when it comes the way it did for this family. This 10 year old boy fell asleep in class. Happens all the time. The teacher saw the kid sleeping and she went to wake him up. When she woke him up, he had a fit. The teacher said that he disrupted her class. In all fairness, he did. But again, this happens all the time. Kids nowadays are disrespectful, yes, but why fine the kid and his family? And for something this small yet! Anways, the mother decided (I would have done the same thing) that she would fight the fine. And, no surprises here, the fine was dismissed.

But then you got to think of where the fine took place. This incident happened in El Paso, Texas. Now it all seems to make sense. Texas has rules for everything. Everywhere I hear, Texas is a place with rules out of the wazoo. It just doesn't make sense why someone would make a big deal out of something this small.

I'm Glad I Live in Canada

As climate's change around the world, many unexpected things happen. Today, an earthquake struck Indonesia. A 7.6 on the richter scale, this particular earthquake took the lives of 75 people, and leaving hundreds of people injured. This is also not the first time this year that a disaster struck. On Tuesday disaster struck the Samoan Islands. An 8.0 on the richter scale is what happened. To make matters worse, a tsunami was the result of this earthquake. Not only were the islands rocked by the earthquake, the waters of the tsunami flooded what people had known as their homes. 111 people were killed in the storm.

This reminds me of how fortunate I am to live in Canada. I know every place in the world has it's downfall. Canada has a notorious amount of mosquitos, but we have to look at it this way. Would you rather live in a place where tsunami's and earthquakes happen everyday, or would you rather live with a few occasional blood suckers? I would take the mosquitos any day of the week. In an area where you have to deal with such disasterous things, you are always worrying about what you and your family are going to do to deal with these circumstances. You are always looking over your shoulder and wondering if this will be the last time you see your family. In an area like Steinbach, MB (my hometown), you don't have to worry about those types of things. Sure you have to deal with occasional mishaps, but nothing compared to what the people in Indonesia or Samoa feel today.

So in other words, be thankful for what you have and where you live. Be thankful that you don't have to deal with tsunami's, or disasters like that. Just know that God is watching over you and that He is doing what is best for you, and what is according to His plan.

Gang Violence

Today, 3 people have been charged for murder after beating a 16 year old honors student to death. It was a brutal attack. The three men charged used two by fours to beat Derrion Albert to a pulp. Even after he was down on the ground, he was continually beat.

All caught on an amateur video, this brutal attack has been linked to gang violence. This morning before I headed off to school, I was watching a little bit of CNN news. They said that the victim was beaten up because he refused to join the gang. He was standing up for what he believed in. He didn't want to join. Leave the kid alone. What drives people to do these sorts of things, I don't know. All I know is that these kids will have a long road ahead. They will have to pay for it.

Its Friday!

Today is the day of the week where people look forward to most. Most people, including myself will try our hardest to do as little as we can. Like today for example, taking notes is all I will do. I just don't have the motivation to do anything. When I try to focus on school or whatever else is on the horizon, my mind just goes for a spin. It's like I'm a little puppy. I see one thing now, but within a minute, my mind is off to someplace else.

I don't really want to do homework today, but if I don't I will have to do a ton of it on the weekend. And the weekend is for fun, right? Well, not much anymore. I will try to do fun stuff, but my mind has to be focused on school. Lets just say, I am glad we only have one Friday during a week. If we had more, don't count on me to do anything. I probably won't do it. Have a great weekend!

We Need Your Support

Basketball has been a big part of my life for a very long time. I have been playing the game ever since I was a little kid. But, as the upcoming year approaches, my excitement for the sport keeps rising. My expectations for this basketball season are extremely high. As it looks right now, we will be running a fast break type offense. We will at least try to run every chance we get. The best part about this style of play, is that it is one of the quickest ways to get the fans excited. And you need to have fans to feel confident in your abilities. They are a big motivation for players. The fast break style is very fast, and very up and down. Tons of shots are put up, and also the fast break style sets players up for a lot of scoring.

So if you plan on watching the Freemen play this year (which you better), be ready for a lot of scoring, and alot of excitement. We as players will do our best to please the crowd.

Bring Forth Your Troubles to God

Today, is Providence college's annual day of prayer. This day is a time to give your hearts and your troubles to God. In other words, give everything to God. Many people will have or will be participating in this event. I think it is good to pray with people. You need to be comfortable though. Don't think you have to pray with everyone just because everyone's doing it. If you are more comfortable praying by yourself, then do that. As long as the words are coming from your heart, then it is fine.

Prayer is a major part in your walk with God. It helps you get through tough times, and also helps calm the nerves. Pray in the morning before heading off to work or school, or pray before bed, or pray anytime during the day for that matter. Every time you pray, is more time you have to spend with the God that created you. Talk to him. He wants to hear what you have to say.

Also, good luck to all prov soccer teams as they head off to Kansas. Play hard but have fun. Also dont forget to pray.

"Blame Me"

Winning an NBA championship is one thing. Defending it is a way different story. The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to defend their 2009 NBA championship crown. In efforts to repeat, the Lakers signed NBA bad boy, Ron Artest. Not only is he hated around the league for his tenacious attitude, but also his tenacious defense. In my mind, he is one of the best defenders in the league today. The reason why this move is so significant is the fact that he was the only player good enough to "slow" Kobe Bryant down (slow meaning not very much). And now they are on the same team. The Lakers will now have the best offensive player in the game, as well as one of the best defenders in the game. Talk about unstoppable. Artest recently has stated that if the Lakers don't win the championship again, he will take all blame that there is. I don't know if that is the best way to go at things. Now there is a much heavier load of pressure put on the Lakers to repeat. But I think they will do it. They now have a much deeper team. They lost no one from the year before, plus they added Artest. It will definitely be a fun year to watch.

Crazy Sweet Weekend

Well, this past weekend was the annual freshman retreat. It was a lot of fun to say the least. I went canoeing for the first time in my life and it turned out to be a very memorable one. We (meaning Joey Traa, Justin Bonneteau, and myself) ended up tipping the canoe. The thing was, it was not supposed to happen. Joey kept telling us that the canoe would be pretty hard to tip, except the problem was that, all three of us weren't the best at canoeing. It happened like this. Joey and I were paddling while Justin led us in some sing-along songs. We were singing so loud that I am pretty sure that everyone near the lake could hear us. Anyways, we saw a paddleboat going into shore. They were pretty far away, but we thought we could catch up to it. We started paddling hard. Too hard. We were so close. Then, showing our inexperience, we tipped. Luckily, we were close enough to shore, so we could swim back ourselves. Then we realized we were missing a paddle. We looked around and found it probably 150 ft from where we tipped. Justin, in his screaming fit, had ended up heaving his paddle way out to blue yonder. And since he was a gimp, I had to go get it. It was hilarious. Then later on in the evening, Justin, Joey and myself, started to make a puzzle. With some girls. Whats up! Oh and Justin, eat some food before you go to bed! I am tired of hearing your complaining!

Freshman Retreat? Or Hookin' Up Retreat?

The weekend where friends meet, and where relationships begin. Well, at least thats what my brother keeps telling me. Lets just say Im glad the morning is over. This morning, my brother woke up all giddy. And the best part is he is 20 years old. He woke up singing and making me annoyed. Typical. Then he starts telling me about how I have to step up my game in order to hook up this weekend. The think is he didn't stop. Even while we were heading out of the house to go to school, he didn't stop. The funny thing is, I don't really feel like I have a game, as he likes to call it. I seem to always be stuck in the friend category. Worst spot to be in. Unless, you know how to work it. As of right now, I don't. Right now, in my mind, this weekend will be about making new aquaintences. And, if something transpires, then I will go from there. But, hey I won't complain if something transpires. Hey ladies!!!!

Behind Bars - And For Good Reason

As many of you have probably heard already, a student at Yale had been murdered. Annie Le, 24, was set to be married only a few days after the incident occured. On the day of her wedding, she was found stuck in a wall somewhere in a Yale laboratory. The police had taken in people of interest but hadn't yet found a suspect until earlier today. Raymond Clark, a lab worker at Yale, has now been charged with the murder of Annie Le. Now, the only question is, why did he do it? One can only assume the possibilities. One theory was that Clark could have been jealous that she was getting married. They had been known to have had an estranged relationship. All I know is that murder is disgusting. Plain and simple. What drives a person to kill is way out of my thinking, but it should not happen. If Clark is sent to jail, this sentence is clearly deserved, and I feel no remorse.

Time to Get Into Shape

The 2009-2010 school is beginning to get into the full swing of things. Not only are the classes starting, but the Varsity Men's basketball tryouts began yesterday. If you want to talk about being sore, well I am. It was pretty much a conditioning tryout yesterday. We ran, and ran, and then did a little bit of running. I'm not complaining, I'm just saying that I, as well as almost everyone else trying out, needs to start some sort of work out routine so that we are ready for the year ahead. The year will be a fun one. There will be many moments this year where we will feel like we are on a physical high. But on the other side of things, we will have moments where we will be physically drained. To ensure that we won't have many moments like this, we need to get into shape.

Your Sin Will Find You Out

OJ Simpson keeps getting himself in trouble. First, it was the murder case where his wife and her secret lover were killed. Then, there was the armed robbery where OJ claimed that he was taking back stuff that belonged to him. And even now, in jail, Simpson cant get out of trouble. The memorbilia dealer that Simpson robbed, is now suing Simpson because of heart attacks that the dealer had after the robbery. He claims that ever since OJ held him at gunpoint, numerous heart attacks have occured. Well, Simpson deserved it. He murdered those people, and I think that going to jail and him getting sued is just a little way of saying, right back at you.

Acting Like a Child

This morning, as I was reading CNN.com, I came across an article that was talking about the MTV video music awards last night. I have never watched the show in my life, but I couldn't help but read about it today. The award for Best Female Video went to the young, but extremely famous Taylor Swift. As she began to give her acceptance speech, a very familiar man came on stage. A man that always seems to be in the spotlight for the wrong things. For example, accusing Goerge W. Bush of being a racist, after a slow reaction in aiding New Orleans after Katrina. Or bursting into a hissy fit towards a cameraman at the LAX airport in Los Angeles. Last night was another terrible move in the resume of Kanye West. Coming on stage wasnt the problem. The problem arose when West STOLE the microphone away from Taylor Swift and started ranting about how Beyonce should have won instead. Talk about immaturity! After hearing something like his, I ask myself, why does everyone like him so much? First of all, he is super arrogant and thinks he can get away with things like this. And second, he is a terrible role model to young fans that look up to him. If he wants to leave a legacy once he dies, he needs to start acting like the man that people want to be like.

Dont Take Life for Granted

On this day, eight years ago, tragedy struck the world. Not only did the twin towers fall, but people lost their lives, families mourned, and people began to doubt the existance of a loving God. In my opinion, this was God's way of telling his people that they need to be ready for what is to come. Keep in touch with your families, and don't take life for granted. Don't say stuff like "I have plenty of time..", because frankly, there isnt much time. God is on his way people. Denying it will only make things worse. The time is now. With all the things happening around the world, how can' t you see it? Maybe I am crazy in thinking this, but why wait? Would you rather know you are going to heaven, or find out you were a little too late? To me that is a very simple question. Take my advice and know that if the Day were to come tomorrow, that you are going to be in heaven with the God who created you.

Anticipation and excitement. Two words that come to mind when thinking about the upcoming NBA season. Players and teams come together with one thing on their minds, winning that coveted NBA championship. But, with the salary cap going down because of the flucuating economy, a select group of teams have decided not to pursue those big name free agents. In and effort to save money, some teams are holding out this offseason so that they have money to spend in years to come. For example, the young and talented New York Knicks are in a pickle with two of their top free agents. The knicks top brass, meaning GM Donnie Walsh, are trying to work out one year deals with these players so that they have money for next year. The year when a bunch of big guns, namely Lebron James, go on the market. If I were a GM in the NBA, I wouldnt worry about what players are going to be free agents next year. I would be doing my best to get quality players NOW, instead of LATER. While saving money, of course. Teams like the Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs are the type of organization that I would work for. Not only did they get good quality players this offseason, they also stayed under the salary cap. All that is left to do now for those teams is wait to see what the future brings.