Willow Creek Community Church still going threw changes...

Update on Axis July 2, 2006 www.generationaxis.com/ImNew/axisupadate.asp For 10 years, Axis services have been devoted to helping the Next Gen connect with God through high- intensity weekend services with relevant teaching, worship and art that brings faith into a clearer focus. But, as you know if you’ve been hanging out at Axis for any length of time, it’s about much more than a weekend service. It’s about the heart you have to make a difference. It’s about community. I know that every week there are groups from Axis reaching out to help the homeless, reaching people in prison and serving the under-resourced in our neighborhoods. Whether it’s within the walls of Willow, or out in the world, Axis is devoted to giving back and to getting involved. Axis is real people really doing life together. For several months The South Barrington Leadership Team and the Axis team have been partnering together asking God to lead us to a new vision for Axis. This weekend I spoke to Axis about the next evolution of our church and of Axis. One of the key distinctives we see emerging in our church is a heart for a healthy, diverse church with an intergenerational vision. To live this vision out, we are committed to serve and embrace the 20-something community as well as the distinctives of the Axis services. Axis is not ending, but the weekly expression of the Axis service is. The vision to reach 20-somethings has not changed, but how we reach them is changing. BBQs, gatherings, and events are planned for the summer, built around the Saturday evening service meeting time. So, the next generation of the Next Gen ministry is evolving. But before I go any further, let me assure you that Willow’s commitment to 20-somethings is firm. What will that look like for you? For starters--- Beginning next weekend, (July 8), Axis is invited to do church in the main auditorium. Sections 202 and 203 in the Mezzanine will be the sections where Axis will sit. Axis will have monthly Hangout/Go-out times after the service. (July 8/Aug 19th) We’ll Hang out on the patio and BBQ, and then Go out to participate in different interests or activities. Axis will get together on August 5. House Groups, Interest Groups and Serving Groups aren’t going anywhere. During the summer, they’ll continue just the way they are. Sixty of you have signed up to serve at Habitat for Humanity’s Blitz Build on July 22-29. I’m humbled by your commitment to serve and I think you will bring energy to the rest of Willow as we make the shift to an intergenerational church. I also spoke to a key staffing change for Axis. For the last two years, Darren Whitehead has led the Axis ministry. Starting this summer, he is going to devote 100% of his energies to leading our High School ministry, Student Impact. In the interim, Steve Gillen will lead Axis during through this time of transition. The vision to reach 20-somethings has not changed. How we reach them is what’s changing. I hope you are as excited about the future here at Willow Creek as I am—because you are a big part of it! In this together— Gene Appel Lead Pastor www.willowcreek.org

living for an audience of ONE...

Running 4th in the Nation... 20 weeks of....

For the 2nd year in a row Fellowshipchurch.com has ranked 4th in the 50 Most influential churches in the nation. This summer has and will be another hot summer line up, while Ed takes his yearly break during the summer months. Fathers Day weekend was a sucessfull Papa-Palooza for the family with thousands hanging out with the family on the campus. A couple of days ago the 4th of July was unfortunatley a wash with the weather and they had to move the events inside. The last two weeks have been a little bit quietier around the home front. I have been keeping track for many weeks, and I have had someone or people over at my house, hanging out with friends in the metro, or someone visiting me every single day of the week. Basically what I am trying to tell you, I have not been alone by myself after work or on the weekend for more than 25 weeks straight. I am sure glad God has been developing patience in me. David, my new little brother is/has been gone these last two weeks, the week before last in Delaware at Phi Beta Kappa convention, and this weekend he is on the summer family vacation. Listen to that silence.

living for an audience of ONE...

Here is to 4 good years

of celebrating life, in my honor and my friend Ryan Barnharts life. July 1, 2002 we realized that we both have something in common. God wanted us to both be alive and living well and strong, and for Ryan he found Christ also on this day. Life is special, you make it want you want, and it sure can get better with time.

I have been going through a little struggle in my life, I have been slowly finding out that 5 of my closest friends have lied to me in person on the phone, to and through people. I have been walking around in a daze, going to my hiding place, and asking God-why. I think the closest that has hurt me here in Texas, is my new little brother that I have been hanging tight with since this past march. I always want people to know that I am all about the friendships, relationships and bonding with the boys. I am a very open, honest, and try to be a real-Christ follower, the best that I know how. I guess what I don't understand is why do people have to lie about crap in their life?

The flip side of the coin is that even though I might not have been physically told a fact, my intuition is pretty damn good. I know I live in Dallas, (and hopefully sometime soon that will be changing) but why does life mess with people and time drifts the closest friendships away, when you have always vowed not to let them go, and is just understood that this should be not happening. My heart is hurting, and I don't even want these people to feel like they should tell me, but come on, I already know. So, I ask myself as I lay in bed, why am I left out in the rain, and how many months will it take for my heart to hear it, do I have to wait till Christmas?, if I do, I am not sure this friendship will last.

My friend brought it to my attention that the reason he has lied to me on 3 separate occasions is because he did not want to let me down, or disappointment me. If I had a dollar for every disappointment in my life, I would be ten times wealthier than I already am. I know he looks up to me as a older brother, and wise spiritual influence. "What have I NOT done for you to believe in me, trust me, or prove to you that I am always hear with a listening ear that will not judge you, (like all those other damn Christians out there that judge you before you even get introduced to them)", is what I asked him. He told me, "that I am one of the most intimidating people he has ever met", "are you kidding me, RIGHT?", I looked at him Saturday morning with confusion, and disbelief. So I ask my GM, "am I intimidating?, and she told me, "you are the 2nd most intimidating, next to my boyfriend. If I am, I sure as hell do not know it. I thanked David for bringing it to my attention, and told him, "we both have something to work on", and he said, You bet WE do. Bro, you want me to raise the bar, well Randall I want you to also." Life is always about raising the bar, and striving to reach the mark. I conclude with this...

If your to busy for your closest friends and family to just make a simple 2min call, text message, or email, then you need to stop wasting your pathetic attempt at life to realize you really need to stop and smell the roses and quit letting yourself exercise your excuse that your job is right now your only pathetic attempt to enjoy life. People don't let your friends and family that care about you the most, move on down the road. I guess I am finding out who my true friends really are, be careful it just might surprise you-unfortunately.

peace...

living for an audience of ONE...

Uptown Moves Downtown

Life has often been compared to a race, a roller coaster and a box of chocolates. But no one refers to life as a spectator sport. This weekend Ed Young showed us how we can discover an amazing life of purpose and power when we finally decide to move beyond the bleachers. It was the Grand Opening of the Downtown Dallas for a brand new satellite campus, and we had over 2,000 show up for this exciting event for FC and Town and Country Campaign. You can check out all the pictures and the exciting campus that will be reaching people for Christ in a whole new way. Stepping out of the bleachers, heck I am mowing the grass, watering, and seeding. Sometimes you just got to get a little dirty for God, and right now it's really muddy for me in my world. The New launch is still coming, so stay tuned...

living for an audience of ONE...

What to do when you hit rock bottom?

Since God has directed me to be a humanitarian, and my heart of compassion is always alive, I had to take a friend out to dinner for one last time. I want to introduce you to my friend Bennot, he is 22, no parents, no siblings, no grandparents, no car, no job, no apt, and of course no money, but the two good things he has is God and his 4 year old son. I get Bennett, I understand him and I certainly can relate to him a little. I am so happy that the Navy accepted him and he is leaving this Thursday June 22. You might ask, why no life, well he has hit rock bottom, and he is ok with that, his faith has spurred me on to keeping on going, life is ok, and other people might have it a little bit worse off than what you think is devasting to you, but in Bennott mind, your life is just a walk in the park. I hugged him goodbye after hanging out with him for 5 hours and I told him, God is starting over with you, and you need to start a new life with Him and begin to make one for you and your son, from here on out Bennott, everything you do is for your son." Good Luck bro, I wish all the success in the world and I hope God will bring our paths back together.

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Hang with the boys...

Well this is really getting exciting, however tonight's loss was a huge disappointment. I decided to show my love for some of the friends I have in my life. Afif, David and Donnie met at my house tonight at 5pm and we jumped into the car and headed downtown to a really nice steak house in the west end. Afif was really excited, so excited that he was leaning forward on his chair, and it gave way and he landed square on his ass, as the chair slid backwards a few feet. We all could not stop laughing so hard. We walked into the AAC for the "Mavs Watching party", they were really surprised and very appreciative of my kind gesture. We had great seats, but David talked us into going down closer to the floor for a better view. The last 5 minutes was so exciting that David was the first one to rip off his shirt, then Donnie, and a minute later Afif did as well, and they all were swing them in the air. I will save your fingers, hell no I did not even contemplate taking off my shirt, next year, my shirt will be coming off, along with my 50 pds that David has already helped me to lose.

Peace

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Can priest drink... The World Cup is On.

Well, growing up in a heavy catholic town of faith, I was always use to the men of the cloth not drinking, but I guess in today's culture, they can, they are, and boy can they "Get R Don". I have waited on a few of them. Most of the priest just walk up to the bar and look at me, and wait for me to ask them what they want for a drink, and usually I just say hello, and move on to another customer, and then they want to know when I am going to wait on them. Most of them are surprised to find out that the reason I don't ask them for a drink is because I tell them, "most people like you, I didn't think were allowed to drink", so I ask you, are they? I guess in Costa Rica, Brazil, and last but not least Mexico they are allowed.
One of my owners has played in a couple World Cup soccer games, and business has picked up and of course right now everybody is watching soccer for the us and "football" for the rest of the world.
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KK is getting older.

Big D and his best friend Aaron

This weekend my girl is celebrating her birthday and I was not sure where I was going to take the troops. It was 100' all weekend, and they just wanted to drink, and I knew I would be the DD. Karla and her friend Padma have never been down to Sundance Square in Downtown Ft.Worth. "You two have never been, Where are going there", I said. It was crazy and there was a jazz festival scheduled and of course no one told me when I was making the plans. We all got there around 11pm and each of the bars were packed so we ended up going to Bennigans, nothing new. We stayed there until 2am, and then went to a after hours party at a friends house.

Now if you want the gossip and all the juicy details of who puked 4 times, how many fights took place and who went wild, you will have to log on to my other web page, this is the "Christian one." I got home around 4 am and as I was walking into my apt. I kept on hearing these weird noises, ones that would never come from my apt. Next time, I want you to give me some sort of warning, like a sock on the door something, wow I didn't fall asleep until around 10am. You guessed it, not on this web page. Tonight is a very big game for the Dallas Mavs and I am hoping we can pull it off. So,if you are around the neighborhood, and have time, stop on by, you know we are watching the MAVS school the shack attack. U r going down, buddy. Peace

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Did you survive 6-6-06??? GOT Mavs Mania??? When you know!?

Tuesday down here in Texas, people were going nuts trying to avoid letting there newborns not be blessed by entering the world on this evil day?? People not going out on the streets, looking over there shoulders, and avoiding the crowds. Give me a break people, but I guess you just never know.
People are going crazy considering they have not had an NBA experience like this in 25 years. I will be having my first ever NBA Mavs party at my apartment and the troops will be here, I hope they will bring the beer.
Probably for the last two months or so, I have been home sick. When you know something is going on back at home, but you are stuck here in Texas, and you are just out of the loop it gets very frustrating. I am not dumb, and I certainly have been around the block a few times over and over again. I love my friends so much, and soon I will have one more friend, in which right now, my stomach and soul is so excited, that it is literally killing me inside. I want so much to hug, kiss, and wrap my arms around my friends, but for right now, I can only sit back and laugh at the situation, because I know.
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Busted Chicago wide open....

We arrived in Chi-town around 9am on Thursday June 1st. Jumped on the "EL" towards downtown Chicago, from right off the bat we were relieved that people would be so gracious to help us out, since they definitely could tell we were not from there. The hotel that we booked was the downtown Hilton Hotel and Towers, we had a lake Michigan view on a high floor, and we got a sweet deal. We got off on the wrong stop 10 blocks from the hotel, and caught a bus to atleast find the hotel, we stored our bags with the bell man and hit the streets running. Within 5 hours under the cloudy dismal, spitting lite drizzled day we took a nap from 5pm-7. My buddy Afif woke me up asking me what was wrong with my face? I jumped into the bathroom to realize that I look like a damn lobster. Burnt to a crisp, and of course had to make our way 7 blocks south to the closest Jewel-Osco for some sunscreen. We found this awesome pizza-Italian pub just two blocks from millennium park with $5 u call it martinis. We had a few too many, and then made our way to the bar to watch the mavs school the suns, a few more drinks, shots, and then it was time to meet my grade school best friend Randy Inserra. Afif decided to take a nap, and then meet up with us around 11pm. We finally made it to Rush street, got kicked out of 3 bars, in one fight, watched Afif puke on a cop car right in front of Wrigley Field and stopped him in mid stream of kissing a few random people that he did not know. Missed going to jail for PI's with a sweet talker in letting us go home. Then we jumped into a taxi cab that was a"HBO-Taxi Cab confessions car", that I signed the release form at the end to seal the deal, only because Afif ran his mouth the whole time, to this day, he still thinks so. ha
Friday morning we slept in till noon and went and hit the downtown riverfront and all around, we found this awesome little Italian bistro, and then meet up with my two sisters, and nieces around 3pm. We went shopping, on a riverboat tour, lots of good laughs and enjoyed a nice relaxing late dinner at the Chicago House of Blues, and then they headed back to Kenosha. My buddy's client flew up in his private jet, and rented some Dodge Vipers that were tooled around the city in. Awesome.
Saturday morning I scheduled a breakfast talk-counseling session with one of my old prof's from GU. I had a great two hour in depth talk with Dr. C and really was able to get a lot of advice from him. Thank your Dr. C. During lunch we cruised up to Kenosha to my sisters house for her daughters family & friend BBQ from noon-4pm. After we all had a quick nap, we settled in for the night to watch the mavs final winning game, then off to the Wine Knot for an awesome glass of wine that turned out to be very relaxing.
Sunday, we awoke up and headed to Willow Creek for church and then to go see my niece graduate from high school, and whizzed on back to Midway airport to fly home by 9pm.

All in all, it was a great vacation and we will be doing it again very soon at the end of summer, however destination will be top secret, since this web page is read all over the world. You will soon find out why. Peace randall
living for an audience of ONE...

Chi-town or bust

This past weekend has flown by, and I made the decision to not go to church, ya I know I am a sinner. Memorial day weekend is always parent/child dedication and I just did not want to sit through 500 screaming babies in church. Sorry. However I did hangout with my new little brother David and we all watched the Mavs keep on scoring to a victory.
I am definitely ready to go to the windy city for our first ever "millionaire weekend". We have four going and we will be living like rock stars. Believe it. My best friend from Texas and I are leaving tomorrow at 7am. I will let you know all the juicy details. I promise.
living for an audience of ONE...

Summer is here...A brand new project on the horizon?

can you feel it, if you are in Texas you sure can. I have been busy with some old friends, my regular friends, and making new ones. I just don't understand why the new ones are still alot younger than me. I have been hanging out with a bartender friend of mine and his best friend which is the owners nephew. He just graduated from high school, a little late, but still graduated and also in college. This kid is an awesome person who still lives at home, and the mom is literally sucking the life out of him. Both parents are glad that David and Donnie are hanging with me and encourage it. They have been over around 9 times watching the Dallas Mavs with Afif and I. Recently, I asked them what they expect out of this relationship and they both said at different conversations, " we love hanging out with you, cause your a lot fun, a very wise person, a positive person who always encourages us, a very good friend, and we both look at you as an older brother that we never have had. " I was very flattered and also humbled. I have hung out with David a lot more than Donnie, because of schedule conflicts. I hung out with David all day Monday, Thursday, Friday. We had a great talk over sno-cones, dinner, volleyball, and then the mavs game. They both are Christians, however Donnie is a new Christian, and has not yet been brought up in the Christian faith, that will be our summer project for David and I. They are going to both start coming to Fellowship with me, and you know I love that. They will be staying at my apartment while I am in Chicago for 4 days this upcoming weekend.

I have been working on a new project that will get rolled out 4th of July weekend, and trust me it is going to be a hot summer sizzler. To kick off my new project, I have hired, and asked a friend of mine of who is a Christian rapper to spin little track for me. MORE TO COME July 4th.

IS IT GETTIN HOT IN HERE? YOU WILL SOON FIND OUT!!!

living for an audience of ONE...

Meet my friend....

Everyone-from knee high to tree high-is an author. In fact, whether you realize it or not, you are in the process of writing a best-seller. But for your story to take on the character and potential God has in mind, you have to move beyond the first page. We learned how to turn past that first page. And when we do that, we can transform an average story into the story of our lives. So, with that I want to introduce you to one of my friends Janay MacDonald, that I know personally from FC, and you can gain perspective on how her story was unwrapped, and how we all can get our own stories out, one person at a time. That is what life is about, sharing your story, learning and growing from it, all the while gaining knowledge to apply it to your own life. GO MAVS

living for an audience of ONE...

Want to see me on t.v.???? FC-Uptown UPDATE...DaVinci Code is a dud...

**** I am sharing some cool info. NOT BOOSTING MY EGO, a couple of my friends said I should.**** The last couple months Ed was inspired by his favorite music group to be a little more edgy in church, and so he created the first ever Christian mosh pit in a church, and it was a huge success. Everybody was and still is talking about one of the fastest growing churches in the nation. So I ask you, have you yet checked out the past sets, stage designs that we are known for??? Want to see me on national television and in the pit, then you better tune into Ed Young t.v. to see me in the first ever Christian mosh pit in a church. Trying to not keep God in a box, we don't even attempt to go there. Creative, Innovative, Compelling, and cutting edge is the best way to explain our explosive growth. Mark your calendars, a brand new campus is opening up in the downtown-uptown Dallas area on June 25 and you can check out the construction process right here. The word is getting out. Dan Brown and Tom hanks have done a injustice to Christians and evangelical alike all over the world, it will spur on conversation-yes, but the outcome will be taking us a few steps back.

living for an audience of ONE...

Do you know what everybody is talking about??

It's about Jesus, and all you have to do is just open up an ear to hear all the chatter. Mary Hart is in London for the world premier, every radio station is pushing it. Alot of mega churches are catering their next few weekends services about it. You want to know what, Fellowship is not mentioned a thing about it. Ed, has expressed concern about engaging in conversation about it, or his thoughts are" don't even bother reading the book, you will be waisting your time." I want to know what all the hum is about, because I just dont get it. Here are a few churches discussing this hot topic...Willow Creek Community church Saddleback Church Point of Grace Church

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Shania Twain @ FC...Time to let go...

Well, I must say that my church never ceases to amaze me. Lisa Whelchel-aka-"Blair", from the Facts of Life made another Mother's Day guest appearance to encourage mothers. She also kicked off the building campaign of the first weekend to give your best gift-first-this weekend. She is incredible author, speaker, teacher, actor and mother of 3. She does a lot of traveling and speaking engagements. She recently came down to hear the casting vision for "Town and Country" about a month ago, since she is still an active member of FC. This weekend a all girl group sang for all the moms a Shania Twain song, "This one is for the girls. Well onto other news, I have been successful in helping a friend "which we all know", find a pyschatrist, I just couldn't do it any longer. I sure am hoping that he will stick with it to the very end. I love this friend of mine, but we both know that he has a chemical imbalance in his head, that he just can't let go of. We are still very close friends, and he is still going on vacation with me and my best friend from grade school, Randy Inserra at the end of the month. I have been doing a lot of soul searching, and my heart breakes about letting go of things that I just love to hold on to. I have a couple of friends that I just wonder why we are friends. We use to be really close, but have slowly drifted away, I think that is one little thing I just don't like about Christianity. You have to completely put your whole faith and beliefs in a God that you can't see, but yet you trust Him enough to get you threw each day. When He says it is time to move on, you better do it, and make it that much easier later on down the road.

living for an audience of ONE...

Saying Goodbye...Happy Mother's Day

Last night, I said good-bye to a friend that I have known since age 10. Dan & Ester Fries left this morning for a long road trip,their moving back to Pittsburgh. Just not even two weeks ago they had their first baby girl Kaitlyn, yesterday morning graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary, last night packed up the U-haul with some of the family. My friend who I will extremely miss is moving back to Steeler country. I have been hanging with Danny for a couple of years now, and we have been working on a lot of issues I have in my life. I am learning to love myself more, learning to love people more, but most importantly I am learning to let God love me more. Thanks Danny for your constant love, support, and encouragment.

I am kinda thinking that I really don't like the month of May, it is just so hard on me "emotionally"-speaking. I would like to wish all the special MOM'S out there that I know HAVE A GREAT DAY! Just remember when all the kids have moved out of the house, safely, soundly, and still sane, then you give a sigh of relief and know you did a hard job well done. GO MOMS. It's your day, live it well.

living for an audience of ONE...

Hallelujah Hallelujah, Want to know what??? Lisa WHO?

The bar is almost finished. We started construction at 7pm last night, and almost finished at 10am this morning, tonight will just be cosmetics. It is looks awesome, much bigger, much more functional. I will be taking pics hopefully. Have you ever sat on the couch, and wondered what famous person has done what?? Maybe you want to know how many times Lance Armstrong has been married?, or how many times Dog the Bounty hunter has been arrested. Well here are some really cool informative web pages, that keep you glued to the computer screen. Think of people living, past presidents, movie stars, anybody. Go check out www.nndb.com, or www.smokinggun.com . Thank you Kim Fornoff for the tip. I am actually looking forward to meeting, and hearing Lisa Whelchel aka "Blair from the infamous 80's favorite sitcom "The Facts of Life". This weekend she will be speaking all weekend at FC, she also just finished last weekend in NY-City taping a reunion of her past friends in the show. See what else she has been doing with her time.

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Son??? WHO-- for Mother's Day weekend

I lay in bed dreading to get up to face this day My nerves are shot in anticipation of what seems like an eternity Wondering if I will ever have the opportunity to stare into his eyes I need to go to work, but even that gives me a bad taste in my mouth Can I still walk this life, and not want to know you, and want you to be so in my life... Today is Wednesday May 10, a day that will always haunt my dreams, hopes and fears. Today is my son's birthday, my heart hopes for hope. I often tell myself that hope is good thing, well right now it is the only thing to hang on to. I want to meet him, hold him, hug him, hangout with him. Until that wish happens, I will continue to hang out with the other young people who are in my life, and continue to hope. Hope is a good thing!!! Have you figured out who is going to the special guest speaker this weekend at FC. I will give you another clue, CLICK HERE to find out who is a member of Fellowshipchruch.com

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Ed & Bono...Carrie Underwood @ FC... What bar expansion??

The bar expansion was supposed to have happened by March 9, then by April 9, and now I sure hope this Wednesday. I am just so sick of the contractors putting it off, but we have to deal with the airport advisory board, and that has been a huge problem. So, this week is going to be kind of crazy. Ed Young and the lead singer of U2-Bono, had coffee this past Friday, and Ed shared this rare experience with us this weekend. I would imagine Bono was humbled that we play all of his songs in church. He wanted to check out FC, because of that reason. Which is very cool. The worship team at FC sang "Jesus Take the Wheel", by Carrie Underwood this past weekend. Town & Country is here and roaring like a lion. This weekend was commitment weekend, and us praying all week as to what we will be giving to make this great opportunity happen, next weekend will be the first weekend to tithe to Town & Country during the weekend service. Stay tuned as to WHO will be speaking this weekend at FC for Mothers Day. Here is a hint: a 80's sitcom, her friend was always on roller skates, and last-she was the one who had long flowing blonde hair that she always was so proud of?? Can you figure it out?

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Got a birthday?? Thompson Family NEWS...GO MAVS

May is the month that alot of my friends have birthdays. I would like to introduce you to a friend that has been impacting my life over 7 years. Today is one of my best friends birthday, and this cat is getting old. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEOFFREY CARLSON. Geoff has been working at Busch Gardens in Willamsburg for the last 4 summer years. This year he is in charge of all musicals and dramas that will be happening this season. CONGRATS GEOFF!! He has been a very good encouragement for my life for many years. I am hoping this will catapolt him into Hollywood, where he belongs. (You need to catch up to your old, ex-friend from high school - Chris Klein)haha I want to wish all of my friends a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY~~~John Bonnell, Geoffrey Carlson, Edward Weinger, Jonathan Miller, Brennan Sanders, Nathan Opdahl, and my son who will be turning 17 on May 10. I am sure old. ***In Kenosha Wisconsin on May 1, my niece Christiana Ruane got into a minor car accident with her best friend. Since I am an uncle a few times my brothers two kids just welcomed new little ones into the family. Jaime the oldest, welcomed her 2nd new little one this past month, and Jordan had his first baby at 20, just a couple of weeks ago.*** CONGRATS The Dallas Mavs will be starting the 2nd leg to a championship. They play the San Antonio Spus this Sunday May 7 at high noon. G O MAVS

living for an audience of ONE...

a great birthday this year...

was needed, and I was not disappointed. The clock hit midnight, the phone began to ring, and I knew, boy I am getting older. Thank you to everybody who called, text me, emailed, and I even got some gifts in the mail. I definelty felt the love. Thank you Thank you. My general manager talked me into taking the day off. I told Debbie, "what am I going to do on my day off?" My buddy Afif called me around 1:45pm and said, "something came up, and I won't be able to make it". After hanging up on him, at 2pm I heard a knock on the door, it really was not what I wanted to hear, but it was Afif, "boy I got you, ha ha." I didn't think it was funny. We hit the road, and we went to Mexico Lindo for my favorite "Rainbow Margarita", then we spent the next 3 hours at Martini Ranch in Uptown sipping on $3 martinis. Our next stop was Sambuca, a very ultra cheek expensive bistro, and it was very good. All in all, it was a great birthday, and nothing really crazy happened, he did want to take me to the stripe joint, but we both knew that was not going to happen. Also, shane no I did not get naked for this birthday, like the last, sorry.

living for an audience of ONE...

PROBLEM FIXED...

The link was fixed, sorry for the problem. YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT THESE PICTURES of my church, and what a normal weekend service looks like at one of the greatest things going for introducing the gospel in the local church-fellowshipchurch.com.

Immigration March... Purging my soul..EASTER PICTURES ARRIVE

Today marks a significant petition in the hispanic, latino, and asian culture as it was the march heard around the nation. Back in the day, I was thinking that we just need people to come over here legally, and then I realized that one of my best friends down here fits that bill(only with his green card). I have my hands full with this summer. Afif my bangladishian friend needs my help with learning how to swim, focusing his life, and also studying to get his citzenship. Last year, I helped a friend (a little) from TGIF to get her citizenship, and I somewhat enjoyed the process. This summer however, it will feel like I will be going back to school in helping my buddy study, study, study. He asked me if I would help him to do this, and I was humbled when he said, "I have no one else that could help me, except for you" As the clock ticks closer to my birthday in a few hours, my heart is consumed with how God brings people into each others lives. I won't deny that I have been racist in the past, but that is slowly changing for me. I work, live, and breathe with people of another race, and who am I to say that one is better than the other. Dallas is home right now, and helping a good friend in a month study for his citizenship brings tears to my heart as to the road that God has so far brought me down.

Fellowship Church's Easter extravaganza is now in picture on this website, that features FC as a proud sponser of the church. They are also responsible for all the lighting elements you see.

living for an audience of ONE...

Friend and Family share a common weekend

This past weekend my best friend Matthew Smith and his one year anniversary to Jenny from Chicago was celebrated at the same time as my dad Elmer's birthday on April 22. Elmer and Raphaels anniversary- 23 and her birthday also on April 24. They all enjoyed the weekend of anniversarys and a birthday knowing they share something special and both remembered it, we can also add Kim Fornoff who married Jeff Kaye on the same weekend also.

Cup holders in church is a win win situation. I came across this article and I thought it would be a good subject to talk about. I think it a great idea. FC does not allow any food or drink in the sanctuary. As long as you are not eating a snack during the service, but sipping on a Lattae, I am all for it.

My birthday is coming up and my friend Afif keeps asking me what I want to do, and I keep telling him, it is up to him. I just want my birthday to be a little bit more than the last one. Boy, I am sure getting old. This weekend, my eyes will be glued to the tube. The Dallas Stars Hockey is in the Stanley Cup, and we can wish for the best. Also the Dallas Mavericks are heading down the road to victory .


living for an audience of ONE...

Building for the future...

When people hear about money, they really begin to wonder, but when your in church, people then begin to freakout. Why is that? FC has embarked on a 2 year campaign that will kick off May 13/14 called Town and Country. I had friends in and this past weekend they kicked off the campaign and my friends who are not church attenders were not excited about coming to check out my church, and hearing about tithing in the message. All I can say, is I am sorry, but how do you think FC has grown to where it is now? The last building campaign was started in 2000, and the next one was kicked off the exact same time they came for the first time, and probably now the last time.

All I have to say, is that if FC was not heading in the direction they are now, from back in the day, then I would not be here, and this life would not have been changed. My existence here in DFW, has been a blessing, and I have been blessed, and I am being able to bless those around me. I am glad for that, life change is always good, when it is done one positive life at a time.
living for an audience of ONE...

Guess Who, Fellowship Uptown UPDATE...Want the dirt???

Monday afternoon right before I was about to leave, my buddy Kiefer Sutherland---aka---"Jack Bower" from the hit show 24 came in to have a drink and smoke with yours truely. Very laid back guy. **No autographs PLEASE**

GO MAVS is the only thing out of my lips. I have become an avid Texas sports team fan for a good solid year. Our Dallas Stars Hockey team is in the Stanley Cup this year, but I don't think they are going to do it, this year.

Check out this update on Fellowship church.comUptown on how things are coming along on their soon to be new home. Work is slow again, and I am getting bored to early of the day, but construction is not far away when my bar will be doubling itself.

Want to get the down load on past, present, and futuring moviestars, hollywood, past presidents, the whose who and so they think so. CHECK OUT THIS LINK. thank you kim fornoff

living for an audience of ONE...

Vacation over, Love ANNE THOMPSON...Who is P??

*****THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO ANNE THOMPSON FROM OMAHA****

Thursday after noon April 13, Anne Thompson, my little "adopted"step sister took my advice and came to visit me during her lay over from Omaha. IN SHOCK, is the only words that described my facial expression. I told her, "You are never going to guess who just got in town," and had her call Shane K on my phone, to shock him, and he was definitely surprised.

The 12 days of friends have come and gone. Stay tuned for the pics, they will be coming very soon.
Shane Kardell made it in around 9pm on Wednesday April 12 until that Monday. Michelle K made it in Friday night on the April 14. With a very cool UNEXPECTED, surprise one of my best friends from Omaha, ex-roomie Edward "7" Weinger made it around 11pm and surprised everybody at the bar we were drinking at for a two day visit. Shane and Michelle got to witness a Easter service at FC, and boy this year did they raise the bar, I mean literally RAISE the bar. MK, SK, and even I were just looking at each other during the service with amazement. Edward was traveling down to Austin, so he missed the Easter show. Kim Fornoff & Cheryl Reineke got in Wednesday April 19 & the 20. My 420 @ 1020 C & K party was a huge success. I just can't hang like I use too, sorry Afif, yes you win the $50 bet. I am old give me a break

Picture any home improvement show, "Flip this house, Trading Spaces", and you will get the idea, crap everywhere, boxes, paper, new furniture, "all assembly required". I wanted it done before Michelle got there Friday night for a surprise for her, then we needed to literally move everything around, because it just didn't not look good. It was down to the wire, before we needed to pick up cheryl right before the party was scheduled to start @ 1020pm.
***THANK YOU SHANE, MICHELLE AND MY NEIGHBOR MATT FOR HELPING****

Cheryl and Kim was able to visit FC, Kim for the first time, and they both liked it, but we were kicking off a building campaign, and Ed was speaking on giving to the local church. Let's just say it didn't fly to well with them or me. I did not know what he was speaking on, or I would not brought them.

In a brief summary, we tied a few on, shane and I had a couple deep talks, everybody got to meet my best friend down here named Afif, checked out my place of work, some really good DFW hot spots. We went hiking at grapevine lake, a little shopping, many, many wardrobe changes, (just in one day we did 3), were treated like VIP's, treated them like VIP, checked out hotel ZAZA, where Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey stayed. We checked out and walked around in Uptown, downtown, Gaytown, and of course Deep Ellum, everybody got tattoos (this is my 5th for me) and last but not least a lot of maxing and relaxing with a lot of good laughs.

Not to be rude, but who is P on my last comments page, I am not sure who drove down to see me in Texas. WHO ever you are please clue me in, I just don't remember. Sorry

living for an audience of ONE...

Good Friday

*****T H I S P O S T IS D E D I C A T E D TO GEOFFRY CARLSON*****

Good Friday is here, and it is almost time. Time for what you say, well stay tuned for recaps of the 10 day vacation that began today, with some 2 day pre-warm ups for the main event. My apt is so trashed with boxes, new furniture, old stuff and tons of mess. I need to get it all done by today, wish me luck, because I will need it. I had a long talk with my buddy Afif last night, were making progress, and he realizes that I only want the best for him. I just got off the phone with him this morning. He took my advice and had a long sit down talk with his mom from 4am-7am and he just wanted me to know that he is forever grateful that I have never ever given up on him. I told him, "Afif, I will never give up on you, because my good friends never gave up on me", ask Matthew he has been waiting for a life change in my heart for over 9 years. I pray that I don't have to wait that long. You know you are making strides when my muslim buddy calls and wishes me a "Good Friday". Enjoy your day, a GOOD FRIDAY DAY.
living for an audience of ONE...

Middle of Holy Week

Easter is fast approaching and my heart still continues to grow in anticipation of what lies ahead. I think for me this year it has more deeper of a meaning than in past years. Since my chains have been broken from what held me back for such a long time. I am realizing that I don't need to be afraid of past, (that I will not go back to) but aware that I am living in the here and now, ready for the future, of what ever is in front of me.

This week I have been training a new guy at my job, and I am afraid to say that he is agnostic, I am not sure what that really means, but I will need to begin to study, for a long road of lengthy discussions that have already begun. The one answer he doesn't understand is why I am here in Dallas for Fellowship Church.

I recieved confirmation of my # 1 present for my number one girl who will be on her way to visit me, and I can't wait to see her reaction. It will be priceless. I am getting ready for the big event. Can you belive I am going to be on vacation for 10 fun filled days with some of the greatest people on the planet. My house is filling up with all of my purchases and I cant wait to start putting it all together.

living for an audience of ONE...

400,000 march for Freedom...Holy Week begins... Another Fries enters the World.

Weekend worship at FC was incredible, and my heart was severed into tears realizing how good way have life, and it is blessing that in one week we can rejoice in the true meaning of Easter.

*** I want to welcome into the world a new little Fries to the family, at 1:30pm today Ester Fries gave birth to a healthy 8 lb 14 ounce baby girl. Father Danny was joined by his sister Chasity and brother Tristan both from Wichita this weekend for the fun filled event.****

Today, I made my final purchase from Ikea, and boy are you fine folks who are getting ready to visit me are in for a treat. I stopped off at my friends house Afif to meet his mom, sister, and Aunt who just moved here from Bangladesh.

This weekend marked a historical time for the Latino's in the DFW area. They were expecting around 20,000 and over 400,000 marched in protest of new immigrant laws being imposed soon. They have been protesting here in Dallas all week.

Holy Week begins, take time to reflect your life, and you can impact just one person around you each day. Today I am thankful that my mom poured love, support, and encouragement into my life.

living for an audience of ONE...

Rich & Famous, but not .... Time to Remember

I always try to inform my followers what is really going on in my real world, yes I might be rich, maybe famous, but I am not Howie Mendall from Deal or No Deal. Hey thanks for the compliment, no autographs please, this ends the interview. "Can I get my Grande Icey Spice, please."
One of the most poignant moments of Jesus' ministry occurred in a small, discreet room just hours before he was arrested. It was there that he said, "Remember me." But in our frenzied and frantic lifestyles, we often forget the true significance of what that means. This weekend we will take a special look at Christ's words and discover the real blessing and power of what it means to remember, through communion.

living for an audience of ONE...

20 Suicides too much....

My heart continues to be saddened when I hear of another person who decided that his/her life is not worth living. Someone is convinced that their life is over, and for 3 split seconds decides that it is time to end it. What possess a man or woman to take life into their own hands. Kenosha Wisconsin is hurting, people are crying out, but no one can help the helpless. Teenagers in my nieces school are the primary ones who feel that they can't live any longer. I pray that I don't get a call from someone that I know, my heart would sink. I am going to celebrate this up coming July 1st, that God saw fit, to not let my wishes not continue, but to grant me more time, to encourage those He has, will, and continue to bring into my life that needs encouragement.

living for an audience of ONE...

Making History with Lessons From Hell...TD Jakes @ FC...

Today was the one year of passing of the Pope John Paul II, and the Vatican city was filled with mourners and parishioners to honor the man who was the pope for 26 years. Also, it was opening weekend for MLSoccer, and MLBaseball, and the home opener for the Texas Rangers is Monday April 3, while FC DALLAS soccer team won their home opener at their new Pizza Hut park in Frisco Texas against the Chicago Fire. The buzz was in the air, excitement flowed through the campus, and most importantly our fearless leader was back, and Ed was on fire from being on 4 week spring break. Each year I fall more in love with this awesome church, only because there is no other church like it in existence. FC is not scared to tell the truth, when that is all they have to tell. Nothing scares us more than hell. Even those who don't believe in hell fear it. But in this weekends message, Ed will take us on a unique look into this most feared of all places. And we learn some valuable lessons from hell that can help us discover a life of meaning and influence-a life that God wants us all to have. taken from worship guide. Well for me history was made this weekend, we started a two week study on Hell, and a clear plan of salvation was the meat of the service. When it came to the end for our normal "in your seat response time", Ed decided to have an altar call. This was the first time since I have been here in my 3 years where they did this. He said, "this is a defining moment for our church, I needed this message, FC needed this message, and if you need to make a statement to God, you need to come forward." I was in shock to say the least, but as took a sneak peek into the crowd in front of me, hundreds went forward to receive Christ and talk to a trained counselor in the atrium. It was life changing for them, and my church, because that is not a norm, especially in today's mega church culture. Saturday night Afif and I hung out in uptown Dallas, and then had a really good 3 hour talk at my place till 430 in the morning. That is the first time we really have had that deep of talk, and you know what, he is finally getting it, the light is starting to barely flicker, and that is awesome. Life change is in the making and I can see hope in him. I forgot to tell you that last week TD Jakes from the Potters House here in Dallas was the guest speaker at FC, and I could be wrong, I think it was the first time we had a African American speaker in the FC house. WORD!

living for an audience of ONE...

Going the distance...

****THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO SHANE**** If you all know me and most of you do, I am a person that goes the distance, maybe not like my friend Shane on the harmony wall one night, but I do go the distance. Love you shaneee. Since I am now a assistant manager at my job some times you have to go the extra mile and for what ever reason, I did just that. Our head cook did an amazing job this past week, but no one else was working as hard as him, the next day he did not show up for his shift, so I took it upon myself to drive 15 miles to his other job and just see what is really going on. After a long talk as he was walking me out, he said, "who put you up to this, Debbie, no Derrick," and I said , "Pablo, I did it all on my own," he said, "Thompson that is what I really like about you, you do care about people, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to come chat with me, no one has ever done that." If you find yourself one day needing to do a good deed for the day, I am sure there are many opportunities to do just that. The one time you reach out and show that you care, not just with "lip service" but actually put it into action. The feeling you will get, maybe later on down the road will out weight your decision to not care. Oh yea little shaney waney, "Oh yes I did", love it, don't leave it alone for a rainy day."

living for an audience of ONE...

A full plate...Kiss at Blue Mesa

Well I am very busy, and the clock is ticking away, literally. I have had a full plate, and here is just an example of it. What you read needs and will be done by April 20

Preparing for Easter, make final purchases at Ikea, Urban Outfitters, Eurway, and Pier One. wash and detail car, buy flat screen tv, new flat screen computer, new laptop, make reservations at all restaurants for my guest visiting me for 10 days, hire bartenders for new bar, help with addition of bar for next two weeks, pick out bar stools, counters, keg coolers, finish menus, visit Dan and Ester's new soon to be baby, organize Easter dinner and pick what service everybody is going to, my honda's 60,000 mile scheduled maintance, reserve rental car, keep watching for flights, and on and on and on.

This week was cool cause Gene Simmons from Kiss came in my eatery, and of course everybody just about flipped out. I asked him if I could see one of his unique attributes his tongue, and he said, "sorry I like girls," Someone please clue this person in, I was not asking for much, and I was not asking for a kiss, just to see the "infamous tongue", to say the least it was a no go for me.

living for an audience of ONE...

Road to the FINAL FOUR?? Ritter goes back to MPLS! FC installs a mosh pit.

Fellowshipchurch.com celebrates Easter with 17 services through out the metroplex. You can check out our most recent pictures of our new set/stage from our C3(FC's Creative Church Conference) Click here if you want to see the first ever Christian mosh pit in a church. Hook EM' Horns, they are playing LSU, and it will be a good game. I have really been getting more interested in sports, all my friends down here are all sports nuts, if you can't beat em-join em. This week has been a really long week, and we had our first managers meeting with me present, and I was ready for it to be over not even 5 minutes into it. I still have people talking about me (good and bad), but what I really like is when people come visit me from the 4 different TGIFridays I have worked at. Keith and Kim came to visit me Thursday afternoon around 2pm and we had a great in depth talk about life, and marriage for oh around 5 hours. Well, I have been hangin with a new friend from my Blue Mesa store @ the DFW INTL Airport (D-31), for about 3 months. This kid is an awesome friend, and I am glad God brought us to meet. He lives on his own, and he decided he needed to get away, and made a really hard decision to move back to MPLS to go to chef school for 15 months. What I really took from this kid and our friendship is, that it really doesn't matter how hold you are, where your going, but what you can learn from each others past to help encourage the next person that you might meet, and might be going through the same thing. Ritter is a really down to earth, good kid that has a heart of gold for people. I will miss our bi-weekly hangout times of throwing the football around outside, road trippn' to Shreveport casinos, but mostly how much I learned about myself while I was hanging out with this awesome person, who will go far in life. ***BENNOT UPDATE*** We all hung out for Ritters going away party, and I tried to encourage him once again, from one father to another. I think he is going to go into the military, and I know his life will turn around for the better. I called Ritter today to tell him goodbye, and I am not sure if I will ever see these two really awesome guys again, but once again I feel like if I suddenly moved out of Texas, God brought me here to meet, learn, share, and grow from them. I just hope they can say the same about me. Some people you meet, and then you go separate ways and you might forget about them, but some people leave a lasting good impression on your heart, RITTER and BENNOT you have done just that. If I don't see you two again, keep living your life to the fullest.

living for an audience of ONE...

Am I ready for the Nebraskans?? Don't I know you??

I am not sure if the DFW is ready, but I will be and waiting with open arms. I have been busy with the touch-up painting, buying the sheets, special lighting ( can't say why), and making the dinner reservations at the special places of interest. Michelle kill-A-Cow will be here for 10 fun filled days, a good break from Omaha, and her husband Randall James. It seems like she does not want to use my car during the 3 days that I am at work, but hopefully she will change her mind. I am now looking forward to the abstract art painting we are going to do on my walls. I have had two different people come up to me and tell me they know me, I get it all the time, but most people think I am famous and from Hollywood, now come on people, let's get it straight here. I am famous, but not from Hollywood. I have recently done some one-one interviews with some pastoral staff in the area, and also have shared my life transformation story on video that they have wanted to use during their services. Well, I am getting my name and life story out in the metroplex and I have had people literally stop me and wanted to chat, from some of the church's that have shown the video in their services. I am not bragging, I am humbled. Last, but not least, how is your own personal sacrifice of Lent going, if not, why not??

living for an audience of ONE...

Fellowshipchurch Uptown New Building UPDATE....Ready for the one arm bandits??

I don't really know how I could forget some FC news but, I did, sorry sue me. FC-uptown campus purchased a building and you can check out the building updates right here.

We made it back from Shreveport safe and a little more insane. I thought I came out of my shell when I go on vacation, nope not even close. Ritter and Afif went absolutely crazy, it was fun, don't get me wrong. That was probably one of the funniest experiences I have been on in a long time. We all 3 went to church, afif wanted to go and Ritter did not want to. When we left the auditorium, Ritter looked at me and said, "that was awesome, and Afif said, "can I come with you again, next week, that was just what I needed". At that moment, my heart began to skip a beat, my eyes got teary eyed, and I began to breath a sigh of relief, I introduced yet another one to Fellowship, now it is up to God, to water the seed. On the way down to Shreveport we had a few good talks, but when they were on the phones, they were telling people they went to church, and they really did like it. How cool is that?? We checked into our dive motel, let me just say our card was not working, and every time we wanted to get into our room, the maintance man had to open the door with a crowbar-can you say ghetto??. I won $60, Afif won $40, and Nick won $20, we had a great time bonding as men, drank a lot of free liquor, and laughed at each other a whole lot.

In closing, I will leave you with this thought for church leaders reading this, People just like Nick say to me all the time, "Randall, I have been to a lot of church's in my day, and I hate that they always do the same thing, you church is so cool, so awesome, and very creative with their services, why can't more churches be like this one?", and I said, "I often ask that exact same question, a lot". As Nick and Afif were saying their good byes to me Monday morning they said, Thanks for planning this awesome weekend, thanks for taking us to your church, I really needed that, it was the highlight of the weekend." I can honestly say that if my time was up here in Dallas, I would be ok moving on, knowing I have made a difference in a few friends lives, but I will continue showing my faith, my hope, and my love

peace, randall

living for an audience of ONE...

Do you know what day it is???? Moving the body? Happy St. Pattys Day!!

Tonight was another counseling session, hanging with a close family friend, and checking out a small mega church moving into their new digs. It was awesome checking out the new home for Fellowship of Dallas. This weekend will be a soft opening, but the main opening will be Easter weekend. Danny Fries and I hung out this evening and took a walk thru, and then he realized he knew everybody that was working in the sanctuary, small world huh?!

My Irish friends and family, have a Happy St. Patty's Day, drink a green Guinness for me!

It is the first day of NCAA MARCH MADNESS BABY, and it is partially here in Dallas. The tv's were on in the bar that I now am the assistant manager of, and people were glaring at the flat screen, the only bad thing is that we can't have the volume on, and so that is a little downer.

living for an audience of ONE...

Fellowship Church and Math??? When they come running???

This year for Lent, FC is slowing things down, and wanting us to really focus on our hearts for worship in this month long Lenten season. Here is how we do math at FC

Lent - (minus)

smoke- (minus)

lasers- (minus)

lights shows- (minus)

stage hands= (equals) a focused heart devoted to intense worship

I have been hanging out with a buddy of mine that I use to work with at Blue Mesa from the DFW INTL airport. He is a very considerate person trying to find himself in a world where he has no family. I tell all you that because my friend Nick has a friend named Bennott. This 22 year old kid has a 3 year old son, and he just got out of jail. Nick, his best friend is moving April 1st back to Mpls. only for 15 months for chef school and Bennott will be homeless. Now what should I do? I feel for this kid, and I just want him to be a good role model for his son, like one day I will be for my own son. I have been thinking, I can't believe my own flesh and blood, my son will be 17 May 10. It's weird to think of me as a dad, when I have had no contact on bringing him up in this crazy world. Oh well, so back to Bennott, should I invite him into my one bedroom apartment and try and help him for 6 months to get him back on his feet, or pass him by, when he clearly is looking for me to try and show him Jesus in a practical way, I am not sure.

living for an audience of ONE...

Brokeback Mountain what? LENT? Dallas hosts Big 12 tournament

I know I am kind of late and people have been asking my opinion on Brokeback Mountain. I have seen the movie, and I am shocked that the academy still have their close-minded heads still up their rich asses. It should of won hands down, but the academy still is so not wanting to offend anybody in the Midwest. Well, I am telling you both gay pictures, which I strongly support should of won. If you have not seen these two "gay films"-(whatever that means) you need to spend a few dollars and go see Brokeback Mountain and Capote. It's about real life, not "gay-issues". If you want to get a good read from an old friend, I encourage you to check out Pastor Nathan's thoughts on this subject, and yes he is a real pastor people. CHECK it out here. How is Lent going? How is the sacrifice going?, How is the fast going, as the first week of Lent has passed, reflect on one of my friends who has daily wrap ups on how we as Christians should spend our time -CHECK IT OUT Lenten readings here. Well, the first week of travel for Spring breakers, they are up to no good. I did make a lot of money off them, but the headaches were not worth it. I turned away 5 fakes, more than 5 minors who tried to order, with their own under age ID's, can you say dumb? Last but not least, if you can't contain yourself sexually in public, stay at home. I caught and stopped 3 couples who definitely had their hands in the wrong places at-(key word) my bar inside of the DFW Intl airport. Nebraska squeaked by Oklahoma State last night 69-63 and Kansas pulled a win today over the Huskers. Check out all the details here.

living for an audience of ONE...

Can you say...

I am sucking the life out of you. Why Yes I can. The person who has been doing this for, oh I would say around 8 years, would be me. I now know what it is like to be on the receiving end of this. I have been friends with this person for over 2 years, and really hanging tight since last May, but lately my blinders have been removed. I now realize he is sucking the life out of me, literally. Sometimes it can be really hard, but I try and wake to a new day, but I am still drained from the night before. A couple of days ago he sent me a very disturbing text message. He is at the end of his rope, his father has been passed away, his mom is back at home out of the country for a month. He is supposed to be the man in the house. He is not used to American culture, he hates college, wants a girl friend, but does not need one, and he is a little suicidal. I give and give and give, and it is still not enough. I make time for him and it is not ever enough. I have nothing more to give, except hope I look at him and see myself in his cold, lost and hopeless eyes. The one thing that keeps me going is the hope. One person in my life that always continues to give me hope is my best friend. That's the one thing that has upheld me to my faith, there is hope. Many of you know that I am on to a new chapter in my life. Chapter 3 brings me to my knees, brings me tears of joy, and brings me to my hiding place. There I find life, strength, peace, and good dose of love, acceptance, forgiveness. The hiding place that is one of my 3rd homes, is here is in DFW. One day I want to bring you there, we will travel down 121, get on Hwy 26, turning between Texas Opryland and the Dallas Cowboys Golf course, well cross the bridge and you can hang with me at my Texas hiding place. I have found my own little sanctuary of hope, it on the north side of Lake Grapevine, you might find me there a couple days of the week, praying, crying, reading my new book, requesting God's presence right there and now maybe someday you can step into my real world, and see hope for yourself. **** This is dedicated to people, friends and family alike who might have the same situation. You might be one of the lights at their dark tunnel who can bring them some hope. Matthew you have always pointed me in the right direction, you always encourage me to find God in every situation, you always encourage me to find peace with in my soul. You always showed me tough love, pressured me to step away from myself, and you always love me unconditionally like Christ has loved you. Look for hope in every moment of life, strive to show them what your made of, keep encouraging the ones that need encouragement and one day you will see your rewards come to fruitation. Matthew, you introduced me to the L. Botanical Gardens in Omaha, I can't wait to introduce to my Oasis of Hope.****

living for an audience of ONE...

Hangin' with the kids... Dedication from a friend...

***THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO MY LATE BEST FRIEND PATRICK GOSS*** Want to talk dedication, commitment and great charisma with people this kid had it. He was one of my best friends during high school, and I pray you died happy, as I watched you take your last and final breathe into eternity on March 6, 1995. This Saturday I hung out with one of my bartenders from Blue Mesa, talked got to know each other, talked about spiritualism in the bible belt and he checked out FC for the first time. It was alright, it was on off weekend for them, it just did not flow right, but he didn't know, so that was ok. I called my pastor friend and told him that we were going to postpone it till next weekend, due to the off kelter of the service.

living for an audience of ONE...

Torino Olympics...Texas Independence Day...Spring Break time...

March 1 is a historic time for Texas, it is when we broke ties from Mexico and became our own state union. I have had people ask me why I did not cover the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, it is because I really didn't get into the Olympics this years, sorry. Well for many of you, getting ready for the springbreak fiasco is long gone, however I will be in the thick of it for the next month. This week I had my first kick off to the madness that will be thrown into the next 30 or so days of people going to Mexico for spring break. Just in the last two day, I served over 300 spring breakers and netted over $500 just those 2 days. So bring on the young, dumb and full of energerized college kids, cause daddy is ready for some more scrilla($$$). I also don't think I will be doing anymore shots, yesterday I had 4 on a empty stomach. YIKES. This weekend, I am taking a buddy of mine to FC for the first time, and the pastor friend and his team to check out why everybody is always talking about Fellowship.

living for an audience of ONE...

40 Days of Lent is here... When a friend comes running??

Welcome to the world of no more hangovers as of 12 midnight last night for Fat Tuesday, lent has begun for Christians and Catholics alike. I am not personally disclosing what I am giving up, but I am challenging all my friends, family, and you to make a sacrifice. If you were to give up something small, you might have the opportunity to witness something really big happen in your life.

When a friend comes running, you better have on your jogging shoes. Yesterday was an eventful day, one of my very good friends came running into my store crying, ranting and raving. This person just got fired as a manager, and was devastated about it. Without getting into the whole story, (don't ask, cause I won't tell you) I had to take back the badge, keys, and computer card. I am so glad that this person could trust me enough to come, get and need encouragement. I took ***** to celebrate and get a drink, sent ***** on the way. I wondered what would come of it, when you know it is time to go, next time cut ties, move on, and quit, or other wise they will find a way to fire you.

living for an audience of ONE...

Depeche Mode at FC...Brooks & Dunn... A new endeavor

This Monday was an awesome time for me, I was able to meet Brooks and Dunn, they came into my bar, and got it on with some tequilllllaaa. Very down to earth, really chilled country boys. Every time I see famous people on TV, they just seem so different in real life. After they left, I asked my GM if she knew who was just in and she said, "NO, why." When she found out she was so pissed that I did not tell her. Brooks and Dunn is her favorite.

Well, I have been approached from a pastor who I work with to help start a church, more of an approach to somewhat mirror FC. We have had a couple of meetings over breakfast, and he's taking me to walk thru the building that they purchased, and wants me to work hand in hand with the architect. I am taking him and his staff to first Wednesday tonight and the 9:30am service on Sunday. The journey has begun, please pray for me, I will need it.

This weekend was a great message by Ed on dealing with the good side of anger, but before the message, they had a great video of two people going threw life issues where they had to confront anger head on. The video ended and Derrik Bennot began to sing "People are People by the Depeche Mode. It was one of the 3rd most intense light shows/to go along with the existing video I have ever seen anywhere, including church. The new sound system was so intense it was making you rumble in your seat as well, it rocked right before the message.

living for an audience of ONE...

Paul Mitchell, Ricky Martin, Matthew McConaughey, and the road

***** This post is dedicated to RED, you have gone the distance, keep going!!! I forgot to mention that last weekend, I waited on tons of dancers that were flying to Paris to perform with the one and only Ricky Martin, one of the guys just got off tour with Madonna, it was very interesting to talk to them. Also I waited on Paul Mitchell and Matthew McConaughey who sure likes Patron Tequila. Here is something to think on, I don't want you all to think that I am some special spiritual someone going somewhere. That is far from the case, I have just begun to move. I am slowly making the up hill climb on the roller coaster. Here is what gets me to sleep at night. For what ever reason God chooses to keep people here long on the earth or not. I am been blessed with friendship and to still be here. I know that for all the stupid attempts of me trying to take my life, God holds me close, as well as my friends and family, and I just love loving life right now. What would you do for a dying mans last wish, I know what I do each and every day, as if it was my last. I wake up, count my blessing, spend some time reflecting with God in his love story to me. Kick the door wide open to smell nature. I TRY to be nice, uplifting, wholesome, positive, and share my faith if it is in good comfortable timing, say one nice thing to someone, do one nice thing for someone, and always count your blessing that God still keep us here on earth to try and reflect His faith through love in random acts of kindness. My last post, I needed that, I was not bragging, I needed that, and RED I am glad I still have you in my life!!!

living for an audience of ONE...

What to do for a dying mans last wish...ColdPlay once again... Winter weather

I recently got a good encouraging email from a very good friend from long ago. I have asked for your prayers for this person, and it is time she recieves some more. I was only going to include the 2nd paragraph, but this person illustrated it to a tee, what I am about, and what I live life for.
Hi Randy,
Just a quick note to say hello!!! I want you to know ... you inspire me. I'm at a crossroads in my life and I'm afraid... then I read your blog and realize how far you have come since 1992. You have taken many risks in life and seem to refuse to accept middle ground. That makes me proud of you and smile a lot. You are a friend that captures life and the urgency for tomorrow.

It's been two years after my divorce. I am now at a new church with new opportunities and a hope for a new life. I'm still contemplating going back to school or at least some new workshops etc. I still have no clue where I'm going or how I'm getting there but I want something different. I've been involved with a guy for about 2 years. In these two years he has fought colon cancer and cancer has now moved into his brain. Although, the tumor is stable it will eventually kill him. He is a great guy but has shut out God for over 25 years. He was raised in a Christian home and accepted Christ when he was young but never really wanted to do anything about it. I've struggled staying with him because we don't share the same love for spiritual things. Yet at this point can I really leave a dying man whom I love tremendously and so much want a future with?
I hope you are doing well. When are you coming back to Omaha???? Among all your running around... if you have time for an old friend... look me up! Keep living life!
Love you Kid!
I share that with you all, one to let some of the "nay"sayers know that I do get emails daily. Red, I would say that you already know what to do, if not read my Valentine that I sent to all of my friends and family. I am sitting here thinking and crying to myself, as I go to bathroom to wipe my tears. As a man sometimes sick, not to healthy, and if I could pass on some good advice from one dying man to another. Red, he just wants to be loved, when it is time for him to come back to Christ, you will know it. The biggest thing that you can do is, let go of the past, count each day as a blessing that you get to share with him. Don't go to bed mad, keep communicating to him, your love for Christ first, and yourself 2nd, and him 3rd. You still need healing-RED. When it is time for God to reveal the path He wants you to go down, you will know. With all my love to you always I say this, NO, at this point you CAN'T leave a dying man whom you love tremendously and so much want this relationship to keep going into the future.

I hope you are not mad that I included this, but I think this part of you life, maybe someone else needs to hear it, for encouragment. love you RED!!!!!

Well, the cold air is slowly leaving. I have gotten my taxes done, and can't wait to go shopping. I was walking the other day, and just laughing that I am still here, breathing, living life, and trying to stay healthy in this unclean world. I have talked with a lot of people visiting Dallas, and they have been sharing with me that they have not enjoyed their experience, and they can sure tell that a good majority of the people are fake, money hungry, and really don't care about you, but just themselves. Sure is not the Midwest that is for sure.

Weekend worship services this past weekend were a little down on the numbers of people but, I recently re-connected with my old workout partner and his wife. It was good to see them, and catch up on old times. The last song was "God put a smile upon your face", and Eric Orsen did an awesome job of singing song by the band ColdPlay.

living for an audience of ONE...

Valentines spent well...Addicted to what? Icy roads in Texas.. Ikea ready...

This Valentines Day was relaxed for me, this year I worked during the day, and then took dinner and dessert to my girl at TGIFridays at the DFW airport. It was a total surprise to her and me, when she came running and screaming through the restaurant to give me a kiss hello and said, "what are you doing?", she was definitely surprised. Well today was the season kick off to Nascar, yes I am getting more addicted to watching Nascar. This weekend they celebrated with new "bumping bars" on the race cars for the first time at the Daytona 500 and to honor the late Dale Earnhart Sr. on his anniversary, this weekend. Another fav past time for me is to watch professional bull riding. I had my first PBR experience when I lived in Vegas. I love watching the PBR. My favorite bull is Pandora's Box, and my favorite cowboy is a tie between Justin McBride, Chris Shivers, Cody Hart, and a good young buck of a rider-Travis Brisco, what I like about him is he starts big, rides hard and has a "Get-r Done" mind set to the finish of a good 8 second ride. This week has been a whirlwind of weather, Tues, Wed, Thurs-80' each day, this weekend however a high of 35'-40', with lows of 20'-25'. Just this Sat, and Sunday we had over 250 wrecks, sure glad I am little bit better driver since I grew up in Omaha. I am getting ready for another big Ikea experience. I will have my apartment finally finished this Easter weekend, and I think I might be getting some help?!?!

living for an audience of ONE...

Who has been feeding me?? Ed Young TV?? Looking for the One?

For the first year and half, all of my involvement with FC has led me to get some great food from volunteering through a great restaurant, the one I now work for. My two bosses who I work for at Blue Mesa use to work for BM in SouthLake, but transferred by one of the owners to work at the airport BM. After I started, my 2 all time favorite bosses were getting to know me, and they found out that I moved here for Fellowship Church, and we both were surprised that they had been supplying all of the outreach events with meals for the volunteers. Angie, goes well I sure can see eating our food worked, you sure got plumped up. Well I asked since we are friends, and you know a little bit about FC, "have you ever been to a service?, and they said "no". Well, of course if you know me, they decided they did want to come and visit, Angie came last week, and she really did like it, she said, "Randall it is so wired that we were just at church, it felt like a rock concert with a message." yea, that is what we want, for you NOT to realize your in church, and that you will want to return to great Godly worshipful experience. A lot of my friends have been emailing me, wondering where Ed Young TV has moved to, you can find Ed in a area near you- RIGHT HERE. If you have been paying attention, God has brought many new friends into my life since I have been here at FC in DFW. This guy is just one of those people that has a great personality, a heart of gold, an ora about him that people are just drawn to, and spiritually moving forward at a pace that is a God-sent- speed. Check out a really close friend of mine here, and read his article on finding the right mate.

living for an audience of ONE...

Love is...

**THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO MY GRANDMA MARGE SNYDER who passed away on Valentines Day****
This is my year of rejuvenation, I have been able to let go of a lot of stuff in my life materialistic and internally, but one thing that I have been learning is how to love God first, then love myself second, and now you. Take a long good look at yourself inside, and really ask yourself if this is the type of "LOVE" you posses, or need to adopt into your own life.

Love is patient, Love is kind, Love does not envy, Love does not brag, Love is not proud, Love is not rude, Love is not self seeking, Love is not easily angered, Love does not keep a record of wrong, Love lets go of hurt, Love does not delight in evil, Love does not hurt people.

Let's go deeper shall we...

Love always protects - love covers the wrongs of the other person.

Love always trust - and believes the best in someone else.

Love always gives people the benefit of the doubt.

Love always says, "I believe in people".

Love is to risk being burned over, over, over, and over again.

Love always believes and trust in people too much.

You will believe the best out of the people you trust the most.

Love always hopes.

Love is hopelessly optimistic - Love NEVER stops hoping.

Love is not about me, but you.

Love refuses to take as failure as final.

When you love somebody, you are hoping for the best in them.

Love always goes the distance.

To Love is to risk getting burned.

When you stop loving, you have lost.

Love never dies, Love never says, "I quit", Love never says, "Im finished", Love never says, "im through", Love never says, "no more", Love never says, "I give up"

Love will never give up, it will die trying.

Without this Love, we have nothing.

The only thing that counts is Faith expressing itself in Love.

I have been burned, and burned again, but I have come to the conclusion that I don't really know how to love my God, my self, and my friends and family like I should. I desire, and deserve a heart of love. I don't want to protect myself anymore, that is selfish. I have learned without love nothing else matters. I hope this Valentines Day, your love is like the one I am longing for in my own life.

LOVING you through faith expressing itself in love. randall paul thompson

living for an audience of ONE...