sammyb blog

Chevy Chase National Lampoon's Vacation sandwich clip

2008-12-11T23:08:00.001-06:00

My favorite scene of National Lampoons Vacation.
The part where he shows her the contents of the sandwich, then hits it on his chin is priceless.

Cubby dances to Beyonce's Single Ladies Video

2008-12-03T22:13:00.001-06:00

whoa!........whoa!

"Live Free" by Lecrae

2008-12-01T16:11:00.001-06:00

Hook:
(Jai)
I'm free from sin
I win! I win!
I'm free! I'm free!
And no more chains are holding me!
I'm free from death,
Got power now,
Me kill the flesh
I'm free! I'm free!
(tell the world) I'm gone..I'm gone!

Verse 1:
(LeCrae)
I know when you hear this beat it sound like something to step with/
But morals and your music you want them separate/
Like garnish on the side something ya'll don't mess with
That Christo-centric rap electric
you might like rap that's wild and wreckless
a soap box for lots young and restless
They got ya head bobbin til ya lose ya necklace
Or betta yet bobbin til it leaves you neck less
You know where death is, where no more breath is and 3rd graders learn how to leave you chestless
Where God is dissed, dismissed and distant and far from their hearts cause they hard and wicked/ Sin hates God for real/ that's he's rarely talked about and he don't get the mass appeal/You might see sin sharin' a meal that it eats while it cheats on the spouse out seeking a thrill

Verse 2:
(LeCrae)
They walk in the church dressed flyer than sea birds, she came to see him he hopin' to see her
They motives ain't right and they heart ain't either/ and over God they choose to feed they fever/ See he don't understand that Its Christ who bled for/ every second glance every turn of his head yo/ and she don't really get that/ Jesus did that/ for every time she fantasize about his six pack/ they sure like Al B/ to connect like his brows be/ and with they bodies spit in God's face so foully/ sin so bad it's a liar/ it's says we on the throne tells God to retire/ it's says He ain't enough/ and it says we want more/ is says He ain't Just and it says He ain't Lord/ Sin is the laugh at his power/ rape of his mercy/ mock of his patience/ it say He ain't worthy/

Verse 3:
(Sho Baraka)
I been duped and been schemed/ Like the Lord was cool with my sinning/
mocking the cross living unrepented/ my sinful life kept us so
distant/ I know Lord and been king/ let him run your life like a
Simmons/ Then you'll start loving his righteousness and we start
looking just like his kids

Bridge:
(Sho Baraka)
Live free by His mercy and grace
Live free by His mercy and grace and tell the world I'm gone
Live free by His patience and peace
Live free by His patience and peace and tell the flesh I'm gone
Live free by His joy and love
Live free by His joy and love and tell the lust I'm gone
Live free by His truth and just
Live free by His truth and just and tell the hate I'm gone

We said "OK, go get your PJs on"..............

2008-11-23T23:18:00.005-06:00

......& this is what they all came downstairs wearing??

Hollywood 14 Theaters

2008-11-12T00:52:00.002-06:00

Went to Hollywood 14 Theaters last weekend.

It was awesome.

Free parking across the street.

It is sweet to have yet another option in the movie-watching world.

Better believe that we'll be there this weekend to catch the new Bond flick "Quantum of Solace".

check out ole COX. You know he's lovin it!!

It's Christmas @ Silver Dollar City

2008-11-12T00:31:00.003-06:00

So, we took a trip last Thursday night to SDC. It was a blast. The kids had a great time. The Christmas lights are up and they looked great.

We ate BBQ & Corndogs. We made candles @ the candle place (man, it is just the same. I can remember doing that 25 years ago). We went to the Candy Factory.

Pete wanted to go on the old abandoned mine ride (the other kids wouldn't go because they were too scared). That sure brought back memories. I can remember being so scared of that saw that came out and about sawed your boat in half.

We ate Funnel Cake and of course, we rode the train.

We cant wait to go back soon.

Pete & Repeat were in a tree, Pete fell off, who was left?

2008-11-05T23:45:00.028-06:00

It all starts with this little guy. Anyone know him?

So, last Saturday evening I was in the house working on something that I cannot remember now. I started thinking "Where are Drew & Pete?", as the house seemed quieter than normal. I began to look around the house. Upstairs. Downstairs. Garage. No Sign. I looked in our backyard. No sign. I then looked in the front yard. No sign either.

Then, I thought I heard their voices coming from the neighbors backyard. Sure enough, there were the 2 culprit monkeys swinging from the neighbor's Japanese Maple tree. Our neighbor was actually in the backyard doing some landscaping. I asked him, "are these 2 turkeys bothering you?" He replied "Nope. Not in the least. Looks like they are having a fun time though". I agreed. We spoke a little more, and in the meantime, I kept reminded the boys (especially Pete) to be very careful climbing on the tree.

Just a few moments later, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a little body start to tumble through the branches and leaves and slam head first onto a large rock below the tree. It was Pete. He had lost grip and fallen. I immediately rushed over to him, and picked him up holding him close. I had one hand on his back rubbing him, and the other on the back of his head doing the same. I kept telling him "Its OK buddy, its OK". The next thing is what frightened me the most. I pulled his head back to make sure he was really OK. The next thing that I saw was not the normal fair-skinned face of my little Pete, but that of a red-stained bloody face & hair. I said "Oh... my.... gosh!" Pete then saw his hands, arms, shirt also splattered with blood. It ran down into his mouth, and he started to spit because of the awful taste. He then realized how serious this was.

I stood up, and ran with him to our house to get to the kitchen to clean him up. The first person I met at the back door was little Emily. She was shocked and she jumped quickly out of the way to make room for our emergency. She started screaming. It got Natalie's attention. She then came into the kitchen, screamed, and ran out of the room. Chrissy was also there, and she began screaming too. I quickly told all of them to calm down & stop, as I didn't want to alarm Pete any more than he already had been.

I grabbed some towels and starting putting pressure on where I thought the bleeding was coming from. Meanwhile, Natalie is frantic. She is telling me to get out of the house, get in the car, and go to the ER. At that point, I did not know the severity of the wound, so I agreed. I quickly got into the car, and started towards the ER. I called my Dad (Dr. Jim Blaine) to ask his opinion on what I should do. he asked, "Was he unconscious at any point?" The answer was no. He then told me to go ahead and come out to his house.

I changed direction and drove out to his house. We arrived there within about 10-15 minutes, which the entire time I was asking Pete questions to make sure that he was OK and to also keep him awake. We got there, and my Dad was working on a light fixture outside by the garage. I quickly grabbed Pete and started towards the front of the house. My Dad didnt budge. I thought he had seen us, so I said "Dad, we are here". He says "OK, be done in a minute". Meanwhile, I am thinking "What in the wide world of a sports is a going on here? I have a bleeding kid here".

But, of course, this is the non-panic personality of my Dad, the ex ER doc of 12 years, talking here. We got inside and put Pete on the kitchen counter in plenty of light. Dad gets on the magnify glasses and begins to look over Pete. He looks at a few things,

pushes here and there, asks Pete if this hurts or if that hurts, but is still unsure of the diagnosis, as he cannot see past some of the blood. So, he recommends that we get him in the shower and rinse of his head so that we can further see the damage.

We put him in the shower and rinse him off. We find 2 cuts. One is on his forehead and is pretty small. It bleeds a little, but doesn't seem to be that big of an issue.The other cut is on the top of his head, and it is still bleeding pretty continually.

Once we get him out of the shower, we placed him on the bathroom counter so that Doctor/Grandpa can examine the wound. He finds out that it is about an inch long cut that is about a 1/4 inch wide.

Grandpa Blaine asks Pete if he would like to get in the bathtub. Little Pete thinks that is a wonderful idea. So, I start the bath, we put in some bubbles, get him some toys, and just keep an eye on him. A few moments later, to help the bleeding stop a bit, we poured cold water on the wound, and kept an eye on it to see if the bleeding would subside. It did. It was then determined that pete would not need stitches.

The next question that I had was what I needed to do overnight once I took him back home. My Dad told me to wake him up every 2 hours and check on him. Well, I didnt know what to check for, and was a little worried that I would get him back home, and he would have some sort of complication from the head injury. I asked if he could stay the night and be watched over by Dr./Grandpa Blaine. My Dad agreed. I was pleased & Pete was tickled that he got to spend the night at Grandpa's house (and Drew & Emily weren't there, which made it that much sweeter for Pete).

On the drive home, I thought about the decision that I made to turn and go to Grandpa's versus going to the ER on a Saturday night. I think it was the best decision that

I could have made, because Pete was in the care & comfort of a great doctor & a wonderful Grandpa within minutes of getting hurt. The alternative would have been a very long wait, a cold Emergency room, a possibly younger & less experienced doctor, probably stitches (from what my Dad says), and a little bit of an ER bill. I am so thankful that I have a Dad (and Pete has a Grandpa) that's a Doctor.

He will always have this shirt as a reminder of the tree.......the fall.......the rock.......the blood......and his Grandpa.

Admin, the Hulk, crazy kids, & a funny robot

2008-11-01T10:22:00.006-05:00

It was Halloween at the Talburt's.

Admin didn't even dress up! He just sat on this stool and played his guitar all night. Can you believe that guy? sheesh!

The Hulk showed up and showed off a little.

some crazy kids ready for a night of wildness & loads of sugar

the funniest robot award goes to......

Scariest Experience of Natalie's Life

2008-10-27T17:12:00.001-05:00

So, here's the scoop:
I picked up Natalie today from home, and we headed to one of my appointments. Afterwards we had planned to eat lunch together. Little did we know that we would get "T-boned" on Chestnut Expressway.

We were heading west on Chestnut in the left-hand lane, when a 1995 Honda Civic pulled out from our left (coming North on Burton) and hit us in the drivers side rear quarter of my sweet 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The impact from the left & into the rear spun my Jeep to the left causing us to hit the curb and then the center grassy median.
My instincts caused me to quickly hit the brakes just after being slammed, however just about that moment I realized that we were in the opposite oncoming lane (luckily there was a window of no cars coming).
I then took my foot quickly off of the brakes, and stepped on the gas to get across the street quickly.

As soon as we were across the street, we hit the curb, hit grass, and began peeling out, heading for a tree. I hit the brakes again, turned to the right, and we slid across the grass safe and sound.

The damage may look minor, as most of the impact from the other vehicle was right into my back wheel (which popped the tire), but I am sure that there is axle damage to the Jeep.

Now with all of this said, keep in mind the following:
1. We were on Chestnut Expressway (there is a reason that they call this an Expressway folks!), and so in other words, this was not Bellhurst Ave, or some other Springfield street with a possible cul-de-sac street.
2. as all of this is happening, we were not only changing speed rapidly, but changing direction rapidly, and changing terrain as we hurdled up and down over 3 curbs & through grass.
3. Natalie is screaming the whole time (she has never been in a wreck like this before).
4. We are both so thankful that we didn't roll or hit another vehicle in oncoming traffic.
5. We were lucky that our kids were also not with us, as they were all in school.

Moral of the story:
This was meant to happen.
Wear your seatbelts!
Life is fragile.
God was watching after us.

*the ironic thing is that I was just hit in the rear of the same Jeep just weeks ago. JB remembers that!!

Football, MIZZOU style....

2008-10-25T22:10:00.005-05:00

Our Tickets courtesy of Joel Pearson & his wife. They are expecting very soon, so they so graciously let us use their seats. Awesome seats! 15-yard line on Row 10. Thanks guys!!

My favorite MIZZOU Tiger!

Drew & Pete would have loved to see Truman the Tiger on the old Fire Truck. We promise that we will take you guys next time.

This impressed me the most about the MU Tigers. Almost the entire team knelt & prayed in the endzone before the game.

Well...was it a great game? not really. MIZZOU beat Colorado 58-0. It might have been good for Missouri's morale though, after getting beat down by Texas last week. It's OK, we will have another shot to turn those Longhorns upside down when we face them at the Big 12 Championship (that is if they make it there?).

Texas Tailgating

2008-10-17T13:34:00.000-05:00

Remember Pete the Robot?

2008-10-09T23:54:00.004-05:00

Saw this commercial tonight and it sure reminded me of him and his dance moves.

Sure wish I would've had him on video "doin his thang".

Crazy Bees, Goldfinger, A Cool Cat, & a lil Butterfly

2008-10-07T22:50:00.006-05:00

These were some crazy bees checkin out a piece of sour apple gum at the candy stand near the playground at the Branson Landing. Cant say that I've ever seen this before. Have you?

Goldfinger himself. I glanced over, then had to take a second take....then I had to snap this shot. This old dude was sitting next to me while we were enjoying the guys of Buckets N Boards (check em out at the bottom of this post).

Everyone knows this Cool Cat. He busted his moves in the dance circle at the Tucker Wedding. He broke out the worm first, then came back for an encore with the robot. Wish I would've had that on video.

Saw this cute lil butterfly while strolling through the Landing. Im sure that she's gonna break some other butterfly's heart one day.

Click HERE to see the Buckets N Boards website

Tucker Wedding Pics! (Blaine, Britton, & Hillen)

2008-10-05T21:45:00.004-05:00

From Tucker Pre-wedding pics

By popular demand, here are some links to some pic sites of the famous Tucker Wedding:

Click here for: Pics provided by Blaine

Click here for: Pics courtesy of Britton

Click here for: Pics from the Marvelous HIllen:

Enjoy!

Soulja Boy Rehearsal

2008-10-05T21:30:00.001-05:00

Mandy & Bradley Rehearsal

2008-10-03T22:42:00.001-05:00

Need an SUV?

2008-09-29T15:17:00.003-05:00

Need an SUV?.......'cause I have 2 of them.
We are going to go a little less expensive on both of our vehicles.....
so here goes:

1. 2003 Toyota 4Runnner
- $16900
- Black with Gray cloth
- 4x4
- 14K miles
- Automatic
- V6
- Power Windows, Locks, Moonroof, and rear cargo window
- Keyless entry
- Tow Package (although it has never been used)
- 17" wheels

Maintenance:
- Oil has been changed every 3,000, along with oil filter.
- All maintenance is up to date.
- This Toyota is like Brand new. It runs and drives absolutely fantastic.

2. 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

- $7500
- White with Black Leather
- 4x4
- 127K miles
- 4.7L V8
- Power Seats, windows, locks, & moonroof
- Heated Seats
- Keyless entry
- Infinity Stereo System with CD Changer, & steering wheel controls
- All options, except rear hitch

Add-ons:
- 17X8 AT Italia Riva wheels (these are about $250 each).
- 245/70/17 Michelin Cross Terrains.
- Overland Steering Wheel from a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition (these are about $350).
- 2004 Chrome Grille from a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition (added this to update the appearance).

Maintenance:
- Oil has been changed every 3,000, along with oil filter.
- All maintenance is up to date.
- Common HVAC issue with these Jeeps HAS been addressed (about a $1200 fix).
- Jeep runs fantastic.

I am open to trades. It just depends on what it is, so let me know what you have.

Contact:

let me know if you have any questions

sblaine@atlassecurity.net

417-224-4531

Natalie....great B-day present idea!

2008-09-18T23:57:00.003-05:00

Natalie, Feel free to get this for me.
This would make a great B-day present.
This post also doubles as my car (Jeep) of the day.
Click here for link to the AEV Jeep on Ebay

You serious Clark?

2008-09-17T23:10:00.002-05:00

I mean.....what in the world? and where did this come from?
I cant even remember how I came across this picture........but I did.....and absolutely had to post it.
......what in the world? ....you serious Clark?

Pete's Girlfriend

2008-09-17T22:25:00.002-05:00

betcha didnt know that...and she's a northsider too

Lil Traitor

2008-09-17T22:25:00.001-05:00

Bet her Papa will be proud, but unfortunately her Dad isnt.

Car of the Day

2008-09-14T10:46:00.003-05:00

Ok, I guess I have been doing this more than per week.
So, this one is the Car of the Day!

Saw this one in Springfield outside of Big Fat Burrito (our family's favorite burrito joint), or as Emily likes to call it "Big Fat Furrito".
The weird color struck me first, then I saw the license plate and couldn't pass it up.

Win a Saab from Burn Notice

2008-09-12T23:29:00.002-05:00

I'm gonna win this thing!
.......No......but wouldnt it be cool to win something like this.
Natalie and I have entered ALL kinds of sweepstakes things (if they dont cost anything to register) hoping to win. There was this one time that we thought we were going to win this house that they were giving away. Ahhh..wishful thinking.

I do remember winning a snowboard from Sega Dreamcast when we were first married. I entered online and won. It was pretty awesome. It came in the mail....and I was like, "Natalie...that there is a major award!"

Car of the week

2008-09-11T22:13:00.003-05:00

Here is my new car of the week.
Check this thing out: Click here to see this Maserati on Ebay
The craziest part of this is that there is actually a bid on it.

Silver Spoons

2008-09-11T00:12:00.003-05:00

What happened to the shows we used to love? (ie: Growing Pains, Different Strokes, Who's the Boss, Facts of Life, etc)
They dont make 'em like this any more. Gotta love that theme song.

Can you guess who Ricky's friend is in this episode? ....and No, I know what your thinking....its not Brad Lotz.

Watch out for the end. Its a father son tear-jerker.

I Got the Heart of a Tiger! Fool!

2008-09-07T19:20:00.001-05:00

Hole in the Wall

2008-09-07T18:47:00.001-05:00

SammyB's car of the week

2008-09-06T23:41:00.008-05:00

I am going to start a new thing here on the SammyBBlog.
It is called "Car of the Week".
I will post a picture/auction of a vehicle of my choice every week (maybe sometimes more often depending on how frisky I get).
There is really no rhyme or reason to how I will choose a specific car. I will just base it off of how much it impacts/amazes/entertains me.

This week we have the Postal Jeep. Pictured here.
Click here for link to Postal Jeep on Ebay

Now, minus the USPS signs, I do think that this is one SWEET Jeep.
It is a 2007 Jeep Wrangler with the following mods:
- 6.1L Hemi (Whoa!)
- Custom Leather Seats
- 4.5" Lift
- 18" wheels
- Nitto Tires
- Custom bumpers (front and rear, and they are painted to match)
- AEV Heat reduction hood (oh baby)
- Navigation system

So, there you have it.
This has been SammyB's Car of the week.
let me know what you think.
I will post 'em as they hit me.

Pete goes Rock climbing

2008-09-05T08:59:00.003-05:00

We went to Petra the other day. I thought Pete was a perfect candidate to take here. He is my boy who is adventuresome, somewhat fearless, and an awesome climber (I think he has just has the right build for it). and he proved it to me at Petra. He was climbing everything, and as soon as he was done with one, he wanted to move on to the next one. I am positive that we will be back there every week, and be sure that Pete will be conquering new heights.

iKick on iPhone

2008-09-04T15:26:00.008-05:00

This is the only iPhone app that I have bought (as all of my others I have downloaded have been free). This one cost .99. I wasn't sure at first if it was worth it. I have now come to realize that it definitely is. The graphics are completely simple, which I love simplicity (which is a huge reason why Pac-Man, Galaga, Donkey-Kong, and Super Mario were such huge hits).

The games' objective is to juggle the soccer ball by tapping at the bottom of the ball to keep it from falling to the lawn below. The game records the # of successful taps and keeps the highest score at the top right.

I have gone back and forth with how I choose to juggle or tap the screen. I have used 1 thumb, 2 thumbs, 1 index finder, 2 index fingers, etc. Many have tried different ways. My first high score was acheived using the 2 thumb method, and that score was 21. It sat there for a few minutes until I shattered that record by using the 1 thumb method and hitting a record of 65. This record was pretty stale as it was there for weeks.

So, now, as of yesterday, I have now completely torn apart that old score of 65 with a BRAND NEW RECORD of 127. WOW! I couldnt even believe this myself. I was giddy at the fact that I had acheived this awesome feat. I did this one using the 1 index finger method. Watch out! here comes SammyB! My next feat is to break the 200 mark. Can it be done? You will just have to see. I do wonder what the All-time record is on this thing. I am sure that there are some that have spent hours, days, weeks working on a new record. I am sure that high record score is in the 1,000s.

In the meantime, feel free to download the "iKick" application on your iPhone. It is the best .99 you will ever spend. But beware it is addictive.

On a side note, Natalie's new latest vice is Solitaire on her phone. She is on that thing day and night. I think that the last time I checked her stats on her phone that she had played it close to a total of 10 hrs. Wow! a little time on your hands?

LFW

2008-09-04T09:13:00.002-05:00

SammyB's Yearbook

2008-09-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

Thanks Andrea for the idea!

For Scott & Jessica: Violet Marsh pic

2008-08-31T23:52:00.003-05:00

Here is a pic of Violet Marsh I found on Google:

Prettiest Violet I have ever seen!

Mizzou vs Illinois

2008-08-30T10:10:00.012-05:00

Today @ 7:30pm Mizzou faces Illinois.
Oh baby! here we go.
I am very interested to see how the boys will do.
I am especially interested in the following individual performances:

1. #9 Jeremy "J-Mac" Maclin (WR)
Maclin is one of the most explosive players that I have ever seen. He dazzled the crowds as a freshman. I am just SO excited to see what he can accomplish this year. Be prepared to be blown away by some AWESOME plays from this young kid!

2. #45 Chase Coffman (TE)
Coffman is one of best TE's in the college game today. Standing 6' 6" and weighing 245 he is a force to be reckoned with. I am sure he will have some great plays and some big yards for the Tigers.

3. #10 Chase Daniel (QB)
What can I say. He is one of the best in the business. The only thing that I do hope is that he has matured a bit over the last year. I think that he has the potential to be fantastic. He can throw very far and accurate. He has shown us that he can run the ball. But can he listen to his coach & team? I hope so. If he does, MU is going to be VERY hard to beat. Good Luck Chase! Im behind you.

4. #99 Jeff Wolfert (PK)
Also one of the best in his position. With this being his senior year, I am sure that he is going to bring his best game. He did great last year. I am sure that he has just improved since then. I always tend to favor a good kicker just because of my history with soccer. It is a position that I wouldnt want to have, but greatly respect.

5. #1 William Moore (SS)
I think Moore is one of my favorite defenders. He always surprises me. I am anxious to see what defense he brings to the table. with him in the game, the MIZZOU defense will shut down most of the opposing passing game. He also reminds of (and shares the same last name as) my friend Charles Moore. I will be cheering for #1 this year.

6. #84 Tommy Saunders (WR)
Saunders is one of the most underrated receivers in the game. Another Senior for MU, he will be bringing his A-game to Faurot Field and the opposing fields as well. Just when you think you are down, Saunders makes some unbelievable catch and completes the 1st down or better yet, scores the touchdown.

7. #1 Jimmy Jackson & #24 Derrick Washington (The 2 Tailbacks)

With Tony Temple gone, these 2 are going to have to step up. and I think that they will. I hope that they will be able to gain as much rushing yards, as Temple has set the bar for them. We will just have to wait and see what these 2 can do for ole MIZZOU.

8. #81 Danario Alexander (WR)
Once again, another underrated WR. I really like watching Wide Receivers play. Alexander is another phenomenal athlete like Maclin & Saunders. He is fast and can catch some pretty unbelievable long balls. I am VERY stoked to see what kind of long distance yardage that Alexander & Saunders can put up on the board for the TIGERS.

These above players are some of my favorite ones, but I love them all.
They all play their part to ensure victory for ole MIZZOU.
I am pumped for tonights game, and more importantly, the rest of the season.
Hopefully I make it to some home games back at THE ZOU in Columbia.
MIZ! ZOU! GO TIGERS!

Want to be in the New Spiderman Movie?....

2008-08-28T10:37:00.003-05:00

Here is your chance:
Click here to see how to be in the NEW Spiderman Movie

Pete loses 2nd tooth today!

2008-07-31T17:48:00.003-05:00

So, I guess Pete was jumping around while playing in a chair, and hit his mouth, which knocked out the tooth right next to the one he lost last night. So, I guess we are averaging a tooth a day at this point. Hope he doesnt keep this up, or he's gonna have to start eating at the cafeteria (but I guess that wont hurt Natalie's feelings too much, since she loves good ole cafeteria food).

Pete loses 1st Tooth tonight!

2008-07-31T01:26:00.004-05:00

So, we went to Lowes tonight pretty much aimlessly to look for misc. things (ie: the only thing that we bought was one of those glass fixtures that goes around the light bulb on our master bedroom fan, because Drew and I were playing tag with a Nerf ball, and he threw it too high, which broke the old one, so we bought a new one).

Anyway, we are walking down an aisle, and Pete runs up to us saying "Mom. Dad. Look. I lost my tooth". Natalie and I are both like "OK, sure." But sure enough, we looked down at him and there he is with his little amazement smile with one single tooth missing, and he is holding it up very proudfully, showing us what had happened. of course, we ask him how it happened......he then proceeds to back up to show us. He walks over to the chains (thick metal ones, mind you) and says "well....i picked up this....and bit it". That will do it everytime Pete!

He is so proud. When we got home, his first question was if he got to put it under his pillow, so that the tooth fairy would come. He made sure that I put it in a Ziploc bag for him (as pictured), so that he wouldnt lose it. He then immediately ran upstairs and put it where it belonged. He fell asleep very quick tonight, as I told him that the tooth fairy didnt visit until he was asleep. Funny Pete...dont know what I would do without him.

Keepin' up with the Smiths

2008-07-25T11:26:00.006-05:00

Our friends, the Smiths, came in to town this last Wed night.
They were our neighbors back at our 1st house on Redbud Lane (ahhh....the north side)

Every time I see them, I am always encouraged. They are such dedicated, hard-working, positive, school-going people.
John is working on his PHD now. Man, that guy loves school!

They have moved to Louisiana. We really miss them being around here.
I think that they are moving to Hawaii next. We will definitely go visit them there.
Love you guys!

Natalie has more pictures of our night with them on her blog: nattybblog.blogspot.com

Where's Waldo?

2008-07-25T11:08:00.003-05:00

Who do you see?

2010 Camaro

2008-07-25T10:24:00.001-05:00

I about forgot about this commercial....

2008-07-25T10:18:00.001-05:00

Gotta love Michael Jordan.

Ice Game with GG & LL

2008-07-15T11:02:00.004-05:00

So, GG & LL came to visit. They invented a new game outside.

The "Ice Game". The game was like shuffleboard.

The closest ice cube to the line was the winner.

I think that they played this for close to an hour.

GG & LL will always find the fun & free things you can do in the summer.

Men's Float Trip (Current River) -with MODIFIED NEW PLAN

2008-06-26T13:13:00.048-05:00

Trip was a success (overall). I have learned from this trip, and WHEN (not if) we do it again, I will do a few things a little different.

Sorry about the miscommunication on a few items:

1. last minute change on the location of where we were camping.

2. the cost of canoe rental. I thought it was $35 per canoe, and it ended up being $42 per canoe.

I enjoyed the food, the camping, the card playing, the float, the fishing, the cliff jumping, and all of the peoples' company on this trip. We WILL do it again!

Dinner (Fri Night):

BBQ Brisket Sandwiches
Bottled Water
Cookies & Chips
Pickles

Breakfast (Saturday Morning):

Bacon
Eggs
Oatmeal (all diff kinds)
Coffee
Bottled Water

Lunch (Sat):

Pretty much a repeat of Fri Night
More BBQ Brisket Sandwiches
More Pickles
Bottled Water
Cookies & Chips

This will be $20.00 per person (and this includes our campsite). Not a bad deal ehh?

If you want additional drinks or snacks, then that is up to you.
I suggest that you bring a cooler to keep your water & lunch in for Saturday.

Canoe rental = $42 per canoe ($21 a man, if you split it).
obviously there is NO cost if you brought your own.

Please bring CASH with you, as I am not sure if the campsite or canoe rental takes a credit card.

Jason and I are going to go down early on Friday to make sure that we can get a campsite, and set everything up.
You have the following choices:
A. going with us early (around 10am or so)
B. or you can meet Chris Talburt at the church at 12:30 (original plan)
C. or you can leave at 5:00 or so with Gary Wilson & Randy Tucker as they will leave later because of work.

Also, just a reminder, dont forget to bring the following:

Cooler
any additional Snacks you want (as Jason & I are going to have Dinner (Fri) , & breakfast and lunch (Sat)
Camera (if you want one)
flashlights (for the caves)
Tent & Sleeping bag (might want those)
poncho (possible thought)
fishing rod
sunscreen
bugspray

OK, this Float Trip has turned from a small 5-7 guy trip into a larger 24-26 man Float.

So, I have decided to take a different approach, and do some more planning.

Here is what has changed:

We are still meeting at High Street at the same time on Friday July 11th.
We are NOT going to float Friday evening, we will just eat & camp.
Then, Saturday we will have an ALL Day Float.
We will have food, drinks, some snacks for you, which we will figure out what the cost will be per man shortly. I think that we are shooting for under $20 a person for both Friday night & all day Saturday.
We will be saving $35 per canoe, since we will NOT be renting a canoe for Friday.
For those of you bringing your own canoe, you will NO longer have to pay the $25 haul fee, since we will drop off your canoes at the campsite on Friday.

Also, here is a website for creating your own checklist of stuff to bring:
Click here for Quiet Journey Canoe Checklist

Any Questions?
Email me: sblaine@atlassecurity.net
or call: (417) 224-4531 cell

Mens Float Trip on the Current River.
It is planned & canoes are reserved for July 11-12th.
Click Here for Map of the Current River
We will NOW be putting in at "Round Spring", then floating to "Two Rivers Canoe" (where the 2 rivers meet). It is an 18-mile float.
Cost= $42 per canoe for 1 days (or $21 per person).

MODIFIED Current River Float Plan:
July 11th:
12:30 pm: Meet at High Street Church
1:00 pm: Leave Springfield
3:30 pm: Arrive at Round Spring
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Hang out around Round Spring, Swim, Fish, explore Round Spring Cave.
7:00-8:00 pm: Eat an Awesome meal prepared by the Meat Extraordinaire himself, Mr. Jason Conover. Set Up Camp.

July 12th:

Float ALL day, then drive back to Spfd.

Real Men (for sure going):

Canoe #1	Canoe #2	Canoe #3 (Own)	Canoe #4 (Own)	Canoe #5 (Own)	Canoe #6	Canoe #7
Sam Blaine	Kevin Worley	Chris Talburt	Joe Reynolds	Bryan Tucker	Jim Blaine	Gary Wilson
Jeff Johnson	Scott Marsh	imaginary friend	Jordan & Grant	Bradley Tucker	Mark Blaine	Randy Tucker

Canoe #8	Canoe #9	Canoe #10 (Own)	Canoe #11	Canoe #12	Canoe #13
Jason Conover	Phil Young	Greg Roy	Chad Watson	Jason Young	Michael Ellegaard
Hunter Conover	Philip Goller	Nathan Roy	Barrett Hillenburg	Ben Cerasani	Johnny Jeppsen

2008-06-24T23:51:00.003-05:00

i am sarcastic
i think sometimes not before I speak
i know that I am lucky to have everything that I have
i want my family to know that I have a relationship with God.
i have a wonderful wife & 3 great kids
i wish I could afford a Brand New Jeep
i despise it when people break promises
i miss Scotty Gates around Springfield
i feel loved by God and the people in my life
i hear the sound of an awesome summer blockbuster movie (Dark Knight baby!)
i smell like sweat from the soccer games & working on Jeeps.
i crave a Lemon Chicken sandwich & a Blackberry cobbler from BackYard Burgers
i search Ebay & Craigslist relentlessly for awesome deals!
i wonder if Scotty Gates will ever move back to Springfield
i regret not finishing college in 4 years (as I am STILL working on it)
i love my wife, my kids, my family, & my friends
i ache to tell my Mom & Dad about God
i care about my family, friends, and others
i usually am a positive thinker
i am not a pessimist
i believe in Indiana Jones (but not the 4th one)
i dance with my wife & kids in the kitchen
i sing in the car when no else is with me (top of my lungs baby....GNR rocks!)
i cry at movies with father/son stuff, & other cool guy moments
i don't always pray with my kids like I should
i write very well when I have an assignment in class that asks a personal question
i win at soccer (sometimes....so lets put it this way....I like to win at soccer)
i never like to eat at Cafeterias
i listen to all kinds of music (but hold the country...at least most of it)
i can usually be found either playing soccer, working on a Jeep, or watching a movie with COX
i am scared of Sharks
i am happy about my decisions in life & where they have led me

Clark & Lois showed up the other night

2008-06-23T10:14:00.001-05:00

Indiana Jones Theme Song

2008-05-24T08:56:00.001-05:00

"The Deodorant Bandit" Strikes Again!

2008-05-13T19:39:00.006-05:00

Kids at Park

2008-05-13T09:47:00.001-05:00

Happy Mothers Day!

2008-05-11T09:24:00.004-05:00

To my wife:

This is the most recent picture I have of you (from the Britton Rehearsal Brinner), and I love it.
You are the best Mom that I could ever wish for for our kids. I love you..... they love you.......we all love you!
You do more for this family than we all will ever know.

and also a shout out to Britt ......Happy Mothers Day to another great Mom!
......there must be a reasons why these 2 are such wonderful Moms.
They have learned from the best: Nancy Wade & Tootie Britton
Happy Mothers Day to you all!

and by the way, who is that guy with the lazy eye in the back?

Britton Wedding

2008-05-11T09:16:00.006-05:00

Went ALL the way to Guatemala..............

2008-04-22T11:47:00.004-05:00

..............and I found what I was looking for.

not really......here is what we were really looking for......

M.A.S.K. Cartoon

2008-04-08T00:40:00.004-05:00

anyone remember this? or am I the only one? 1985 baby!
I think I had finally collected all of the toys, then they cancelled the show.

IMDB Link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088563/

check out what the toys are going for on eBay: http://cgi.ebay.com/M-A-S-K-BOULDER-HILL-MISB-MASK_W0QQitemZ270225358626QQihZ017QQcategoryZ16468QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
I had this one!

Beckham alive?!

2008-04-05T10:04:00.001-05:00

I guess he is......I came across this today.

Natalie's Cupcake Shop

2008-04-03T00:25:00.000-05:00

I think Natalie should just do it. Any votes?

Becky, How about this junk?

2008-04-02T22:57:00.001-05:00

Oprah post on Becky Liles Blog

2008-04-02T22:43:00.002-05:00

If you havent already, please check out the latest blog on "The Liles Files" (Becky Liles Blog).
It is in regard to Oprah and her beliefs. Check it out!

Here is a link to it: http://lilesfiles.blogspot.com/2008/04/church-of-oprah-exposed.html

.......and feel free to leave a comment here, or preferably post your comment there on her blog so that she can see your thoughts/opinions on the issue

FireProof

2008-03-29T22:23:00.001-05:00

www.fireproofthemovie.com/

You gotta love ole Kirk Cameron!

Who are these 2?

2008-03-23T16:04:00.002-05:00

Pete just bein' Pete

2008-03-21T21:14:00.004-05:00

This is Mr. Pete at his best. These are some pics from his trip to GiGi's in Columbia.

Cant believe Chester made the Lotz MySpace....Yes!

2008-02-21T14:35:00.002-06:00

Oh yeah, the dynamic duo of Chester & Dexter.
http://www.myspace.com/coachlotz

LOST Season 4 Episode 4 "Eggtown"

2008-02-21T11:58:00.002-06:00

LOST Season 4 Episode 4 "Eggtown"
Kate's need to get information out of the hostage may jeopardize her standing with Locke -- as well as with Sawyer.

Here we go.
Are you ready?

For Cindy (Hillenblog's Wife)

2008-02-17T23:15:00.004-06:00

here ya go Cindy! now I am just waiting for the "aannhh, he's so cute!"

Emily Olsen?

2008-02-17T23:11:00.003-06:00

caught Emily saying "you got it dude" the other day.

LOST episode 74. "The Economist"

2008-02-15T13:45:00.005-06:00

LOST Season 4, Episode 74, "The Economist".
Never posted on Lost before. I think Kevin has driven me to liking LOST even more than I originally had. I cant get enough of it.

I have to say.....how awesome was this last episode? I want your comments. Sometimes it is hard for me to believe how this show can just keep getting better and better with all of the great character development & the fantastic twists and turns of the story. I am hooked, and ready for next week.

I even rewatched parts of this last episode on this link: ABC Dynamic HD Player
It is too cool. It is in HD quality and it is streaming. Looked better than my TV. I need to watch more of them this way. However, you have to wait until the next morning to view them.

Give me your thoughts/comments.

C-O-X 80's party

2008-02-10T21:58:00.000-06:00

Pic from our trip to Tulsa (Soccer Tourney)

2008-02-07T11:16:00.000-06:00

From Left to Right: Jack Cornell, Sam Blaine, Chris Knowles, Thomas Milam, TJ O'Conner, and Adam Simpson

"How's the view?"

2008-01-28T22:30:00.000-06:00

The Hawaii Chair: "If you can sit, you can get fit"

2008-01-28T22:18:00.000-06:00

Knights Results

2008-01-21T10:10:00.000-06:00

Here our are final results from the Soccer City tournament.
We basically got 3rd place.

Game #1: Win
Knights vs Caz's Pub
score: 9-4

Game #2: Win
Knights vs Tulsa Warriors
score: 13-4

Game #3: Loss
Knights vs Menace to Sobriety
score: 6-11

Knights Stats:
Tournament record: 2-1
Total goals For: 28
Total goals Against: 19

or click here for results: http://ezleagues.ezfacility.com/team.aspx?team_id=274362

Tulsa, OK

2008-01-19T09:44:00.000-06:00

So, we made it in to Tulsa last night around 10:30pm.
We are now T-minus 3 hours until game time.
The tension is growing by the minute. We are getting anxious.
This 1st team doesn't even know whats coming.
I will keep you posted of game status, since you also are so anxiously awaiting the results.

Knights Soccer! (Tulsa Soccer Tournament this weekend)

2008-01-18T11:22:00.000-06:00

Our Knights soccer team has a tournament this weekend, Jan 18-20 in Tulsa, OK @ SoccerCity.
Here is their website to check it out: www.soccercitytulsa.com

I will keep an updated status of our wins/stats.
Hopefully we will come away the victors!
More action pics to follow!

Wonderful boy!

2008-01-14T09:49:00.000-06:00

If you didn't know already, I wanted to let people know how much I think of this kid. and No, I am not talking about the little crazy on the left (I love him too, but that is not what this post is about). The one I am speaking of is, the one on the right, Keaton.

Keaton came home with us yesterday after church just because he wanted to. On the ride to the house, my son Pete was complaining because he wanted Nina to come home with him to play, but she already had plans to go somewhere else. Pete was crushed, because he loves to play with Nina (not realizing what fun he had in store with Keaton). Keaton took hold of the situation and immediately started to calm Pete down by distracting him with little jokes & a little tickling. Pete was his old self in no time. This was just the beginning of Keaton's politeness & help around the Blaine house.

When we got to the house he played, and played, and played with Pete. Pete loves to play Xbox, and luckily Keaton does too. Pete more or less likes to watch others play, so it worked out beautifully for Keaton. However, when Pete wanted to play with him (like in a 2 player mode), Keaton wasn't even hesitant to let him play. They have played Xbox and had the most fun yesterday and today.

At dinner, Keaton was very appreciative of the food that we got for him. He didn't complain one little bit. He ate all of his food & maybe some of Pete's (so not to waste anything that Pete had not eaten). Keaton also watched a few little movies with Pete & everyone else. He didn't worry about what he wanted. He just asked what the others wanted to do. & he did ALL and everything with a smile on his face. It is one thing do something, but not for the right reasons. Keaton has it figured out. He is a servant, and he does it almost effortlessly (it is already like 2nd nature to him). There are things that we can all learn from Keaton; characteristics that I admire & aspire to.

I had a soccer game last night, and I was getting ready to leave, and Keaton was asking me about it. I spoke to him briefly about my game, and I started to head out the door, and he said "Hey Sam, Good Luck in your game tonight." Keaton does something that my kids don't (at least not yet). He does things without you asking him to do them. These things are ingrained in him.

Case in point, Natalie was getting Drew ready for school this morning and Keaton took it upon himself to make everyone breakfast. And when I say everyone, it included Drew, Pete, Emily, Millie (she also spent the night), and himself. He made them all Cinnamon Toast & Chocolate Milk. He took this all upon himself and became the adult in the situation.

Keaton hasn't asked for anything for himself while he is here. Natalie and I pretty much have to ask him if he wants something. He is very gracious. I am very proud of the little man that he is already. I know that Keaton has these attributes from following 3. #1 is God. #2 is Dad (Kevin), and #3 is Mom (Brittany). The Worleys must be so proud of this one; I know that I am.

I have been thinking about posting this since yesterday, and I almost didn't, because I thought maybe I dont have enough time. Whatever?! I felt lead to post this blog about Keaton. If you are reading this, and you do or don't know Keaton, I encourage you either way to post a comment to what you think about this spectacular 10-year old boy.

so the 'lil Crossfire is gone............

2008-01-13T02:12:00.000-06:00

..........and is now replaced with this 2006 Jeep Commander.

Back to School

2008-01-13T01:42:00.000-06:00

So, I am finally going back to school for about the 10th time (it feels like). I am going back to Drury University this Spring of '08 (which starts on Jan. 23). The last time I was there was about 2 years ago.

I actually started my college career in the Fall of '96 at SMSU (Southwest Missouri State Univ). was a redshirt freshman for SMS Soccer. Flat out, I basically flunked out that semester. Wrong priorities!

Then, I took a few classes at OTC (Ozarks Technical Community College). Go Eagles! Did OK. Made A's & B's. Just wasnt too excited about the whole thing.

In the fall of '98 I went a semester at SBU (Southwest Baptist University). I also did OK. I played soccer there as well. Still not pumped about the whole college thing. Ryan (admin) knows, he was there (not to mention, Natalie, Jeff Britton, Johnson and some others).

Later on, around 2000 or so, I decided to check into going back to college (this time I was serious). I met with a counselor at Drury Univ. and changed my major from Business Admin. to Psychology/Communication (Double Major). I attended semesters kind of off and on for about 4 years. I made all A's and was very focused. But you have to keep in mind that I also got married, had 3 kids, and working full-time. So, this obviously slowed me down.

So, now I am back in the saddle, going back to Drury to finish up my undergrad. I only have about 30 hrs left. I am pumped to get back into the school groove and get this long time goal accomplished. So, if you see me on the Drury campus with a backpack, glasses on, pencil behind my ear, and a stern look of determination, just give me a sign of applaud by clinching your fist together, raising your arm, and sticking that thumb up towards the sky. (ie: Arnie)

Can ya blame her?

2008-01-13T01:01:00.000-06:00

..........for bein' so darn cute

Sky Commuter

2008-01-11T20:54:00.000-06:00

Whatcha think of this thing?
saw this on Ebay: Click here to see the Sky Commuter on Ebay

Do you have a fear of sharks? if not, do you now?

2008-01-11T19:12:00.003-06:00

I do, and this just further confirms mine.

Look-Alike Meter

2008-01-08T03:35:00.000-06:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Family search

Celebrity Look-a-like

2008-01-08T03:20:00.000-06:00

"Most beautiful girl in the room"

2008-01-05T21:00:00.000-06:00

This is from one of my favorite shows "Flight of the Conchords"

Saw this @ the Dickerson Zoo

2008-01-05T16:13:00.001-06:00

Just in case you didn't know..................

Michael Jackson BeatBox & A Cappella

2008-01-05T10:53:00.000-06:00

I was a HUGE fan as a kid (had a glove and the zipper jacket), and this further confirms that I still love his music.

MIZZOU Tigers: CottonBowl Champs 2008

2008-01-02T00:23:00.000-06:00

How bout dem Tigers?
By the way, don't forget to look for the lack of Arkansas crowd on their half of the stadium!

"Too cool for school"

2007-12-29T18:11:00.001-06:00

For Missy

2007-12-27T14:04:00.001-06:00

2007-12-26T23:24:00.001-06:00

MIZ-ZOU!

2007-12-26T20:43:00.000-06:00

Guess who's goin' to the Cotton Bowl? MU vs Arkansas
Courtesy of Jim & Nancy Wade

Drew the Rocker

2007-12-26T20:41:00.000-06:00

E.T. Phone Home?!

2007-12-24T17:34:00.000-06:00

So, the kids decided to bury their GG (my mom) in the animals tonight.

Then, they decided it would be fun to bury themselves.

It took me back to my childhood watching this movie.

Lil Spidergirl

2007-12-15T11:19:00.000-06:00

Catch A Flick

2007-12-10T01:58:00.000-06:00

OK,
COX and I have started a new blogsite.
It is just starting, so don't expect anything for a few days.
It will basically be our own personal reviews on movies that we watch.
So, start checking it out soon: catchaflick.blogspot.com

Pete,Wall.........Wall,Pete.

2007-12-08T15:09:00.000-06:00

Pete decided to introduce himself to the wall (at full speed).
Here is where he made the introduction.

2007-12-07T19:04:00.001-06:00

Amazing French Beatbox

2007-12-06T22:34:00.001-06:00

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

2007-12-06T12:43:00.000-06:00

The movie group met again last night, which you know currently consists of 2 members. They are COX (in effect) & Sammy B. (And by the way, If anyone is interested in viewing some movies, can respect/enjoy all genres, likes to discuss them, and can pull out some positive points in just about any film, then just let one of us know).

We watched "Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang", which stars Val Kilmer, Robert Downey Jr., & Michelle Monaghan. Directed by Shane Black, which was his first and only direction thus far. However, you may know the following films that he either wrote or co-wrote: Lethal Weapon 1-4, The Monster Squad, The Last Boy Scout, The Long Kiss Goodnight, & also Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.

Caleb had seen this movie before; I had not. From the very beginning I was hooked. Robert Downey Jr. also does the narration for this film. Not only is he good at narrating, but the narration is done in a new, refreshing comedic style.

This movie is a murder mystery, but it goes another step further by adding comedy. It's amazingly funny, but not cheesy. Sometimes if comedy is added to a certain movie, it can become contradicting or wrong. This movie brilliantly brings out something that is hard to put into words (and could take all day...I'm not that motivated). All I can say is that Kilmer & Downey Jr. are fantastic together. They play off of each other so well; like an old Hollywood Duo from the past.

I recommend this one. I will say that it does have some language, so if that offends you, then..........well you can make that decision. I think I am going to buy this one, because I can & will watch it again.

A few favorite lines:
B-Movie Actress: So, what do you do for a living?
Harry: Uh, I'm retired. I invented dice when I was a kid. How about you?

Perry: [on the phone] What do you mean they gave her back?

Harry: I peed on the corpse. Can they do, like, an ID from that?
Perry: I'm sorry, you peed on...?
Harry: On the corpse. My question is...
Perry: No, my question. I get to go first. Why would you pee on corpse?

Perry: Go. Sleep badly. Any questions, hesitate to call.
Harry: Bad.
Perry: Excuse me?
Harry: Sleep bad. Otherwise it makes it seem like the machanism that allows you to sleep...
Perry: What? Badly's an adverb. Who taught you grammar? Get out. Vanish.

This concludes this broadcast............
.............until the next time.

Who's kids are these anyway?

2007-12-05T11:21:00.001-06:00

Ummmmm.........................................Are those gang signs?

Funny thing is.......... this wasn't taken on Halloween. This is just a normal day in the life......

A look at the Knights in action...........

2007-12-03T20:00:00.000-06:00

Our next game is Wed. Dec. 5th here in Springfield, MO
We also have a Tournament coming up in Tulsa, OK on Jan. 18th, 19th, & 20th.
It is held at Soccer City Tulsa.

So, if you are in Tulsa, make sure you come. If you are not in Tulsa, and you do come,
then we will know that you are a HUGE fan!

Crossfire for sale!

2007-12-03T19:46:00.000-06:00

Click link above to view on Ebay!

I still have this for sale:

2004 Chrysler Crossfire

24K Miles

I have now dropped the price from $16900 to $16500.

If you know of anyone interested let me know.

MU vs OU Big 12 Championship

2007-12-01T10:17:00.000-06:00

Click the link above to see ESPNs look at the game.

Here we go! Sooners, Are you ready?

Knights Fans

2007-11-27T19:25:00.000-06:00

<------- Pete, Emily, & Drew sporting the "Knights" jersey for bedtime PJ's

Mendi, Dayna, Sam & Dinah in Tulsa @ Kaye's ------>