Consumed by the Call

What Next, Papa

2012-01-23T09:41:00.001-06:00

http://m.youversion.com/bible/more/Rom.8.15
What next, Papa is taking on a new meaning for me this morning. I can't help but say it with a degree of sarcasm.
I've been writhing in pain all night wondering what's going to happen next. Seems like I can't do anything without injuring myself. What's up with that God? Shine some light on this for me. I put on a strong face but physically and more importantly emotionally, I'm broken. By nature I have a tendency to be negative. I do my best to fight it but after the last 12 months my hope is fading and I feel myself slipping into a dark place.
So God, please be working in me. I need this all to have a purpose even if it isn't obvious. I'm trusting something good will come from all this. I'll do my best to be patient but I'm needing your strength. I'm about out.

Confectionery Coma

2011-12-22T10:19:00.000-06:00

For the last few weeks the Holidays have been tempting me. I've had cookies and candies and all sorts of crazy food items that have no nutritional benefits. All they gave me was tighter clothes and a tired feeling all day. A few days ago I decided enough was enough. I had been planning to start doing thing right after the holidays but to be honest I've already done enough damage. I need to go back to my healthy habits. The confectionery coma I've been in has come to an end. I've decided to stop waiting for tomorrow and do something about it today. I know many of you have thrown in the towel on health and fitness until 2012. If you need to make a change why not today? Temptation will always be at your door, Christmas and New Years is just another "Excuse". I'm tired of making excuses for seeking my own will instead of God's will for my life. All too often people just don't understand the struggle I go through with food. No words can make them understand.
I know what it's like to feel defeated with health and weigh issues. I'm glad I'm part of a group that supports one another and encourages Christ centered health and fitness. If you feel like enough is enough and you want to be around good people who share your struggle and are seeking to make a change, please join Christ First weight loss. E-mail Skorkeper@gmail.com or call me @ 815-235-2824.

Benefit & Consequence

2011-11-28T09:46:00.001-06:00

I've been thinking about Health and Fitness the last week, as I ate large plates of Thanksgiving food and leftovers. I'm sure many of you are still working on the leftovers wondering if this cycle of over indulgence will ever end. I got on the scale today and I'm feeling like something has to give. All too often we find the treats and temptation so enticing. We get pulled into the "delight and satisfaction" they bring, for a time. Those treats continue to call our name and for some of us we give in. I personally found myself looking at the Benefits and Consequences of my actions this week.

My clothes are tighter, and that's not a benefit. The only benefit I could see from indulging was I didn't feel deprived. I enjoyed some great food with my family and we had a wonderful time together. But, as always I became tired and sluggish. I've skipped a few workouts and we haven't even hit Christmas yet. YIKES!

I had a conversation with a good friend this past week about Benefits & Consequences.

We won't stop doing anything until we believe the consequences out weigh the benefits. For some this happens when the Dr. says you now have a medical condition and you need to do something less or differently. At that point many decide to change. The consequences to your actions have too high of a price, so your adjust. Smoking, Drinking, Poor Diet, Lack of Fitness, Illness, to name a few are some things that make us evaluate the benefits and consequences of our choices. Everyone knows smoking is bad. It will kill you! But for many the benefits of smoking continues to hold more value then the consequences.

For me this struggle is with my food choices. I know those cookies hold no nutritional value but they make me feel so good, for a time. Some weeks the consequences of my food choices hold little value. I'm stressed so I give up. I dive into that container of cookies like there is no tomorrow. Maybe you can relate. As we continue through this season I encourage you to reflect on the Benefits and Consequences of your choices. You just might experience a shift in how you view those consequences. I know this morning they are on my mind.

Atlanta 50

2011-11-18T04:54:00.001-06:00

So many of you know I like to challenge myself. Before this year of back injuries and surgery I ran and had planned to compete in a triathlon. I've had to scale back on the workouts and to be honest this year hasn't been my best. What I know is I've pressed on and I continue to make efforts to push myself. Today's challenge will be interesting. I've been thinking about climbing all 50 stories of steps in the Atlanta Marriott Marquis for over a week now. It will be a workout and I'll do my best to complete this challenge. My prayer today is that God helps me go as high as this body will allow. As I challenge myself today I ask you to also press on and do something out of your box. I your at the gym push yourself and be proud of a new
Accomplishment. Maybe today you will go that extra mile to talk with a friend or to restore a relationship. Whatever it is you're lead to do today know you're not alone. God is with you as you take new steps and reach higher heights today.
UPDATE: I made it to the top.

NYWC 2011 Retreat/Training

2011-11-17T17:07:00.001-06:00

Today was our first day of the conference. We started with brief stop at starbucks. This is a picture of me inline. We then walked several blocks to the underground. It was basically a mall. We grabbed a few souvenirs and grabbed a bit of sushi for lunch. We then began a session of spiritual retreat with Mark Yaconelli.
http://www.nywc.com/index.cfm?i=14241&mid=1000&id=344455
Both Kirsten and I are recharging our Youth Ministry batteries. Much needed time away.

Walking the Talk

2011-06-07T11:13:00.002-05:00

Have you ever told your friends what they need to do to succeed but continue to fail at following your own advice. It’s not easy to succeed with weight loss. Even when we know how to do it. Emotions and bad old habits get in our way. The last few months have been quite the challenge for me. I have no excuses for my lack of focus. I need to work past the emotions I’m struggling with and I need to find that accountability I once had. My last two blog entries really speak to me but that fire inside to make changes seems to burn out by dinner time. I need your prayers. Please pray that I find the focus I once had for being healthy. Please pray that I stop allowing my physical limitations to dictate my weight loss success. This back injury is just another obstacle in my way. God will give me the strength to over come this obstacle. Pray that I continue to “expect a miracle”. My mind has been under attack by my old dark habits and I’m giving in. That scares me more than I can say in words. I’m physically weak and my spirit is broken. Some of you have noticed that I’m not the man I was a few months back. I’ve started to get back into my shell of shame and guilt. I’m not going to hide these feelings I’m struggling with because that’s what fat Kevin (455lbs) did. I’m not willing to put myself or my family back in that dark place. So I must be focused on walking my talk of fitness and health. I “teach” classes each week and as of late Kirsten has honestly picked up my slack. I feel like a hypocrite. Pray that I find a renewed sense of urgency. I used to push myself , I want to push myself again. Not so much physically , but mentally. I need to be in this. Most days I’d rather satiate with food. I suppose I’ve struggle with balance my entire life. Either I do something to the extreme or not at all. In weight loss extreme is important, especially when you weigh 455lbs and you need to become healthy. It is a time game. You need to become health while your willing or your mind will get cloudy and you will lose focus. You know what I’m talking about. In a way weight loss can become just as addictive as eating the food. When your losing and the weight is dropping off its motivation to push yourself. Especially those of us who are extreme individuals. I had taken the physical fitness to the extreme and I relied on it to maintain my weight loss. Once that was taken away due to my back injury I started gaining weight again. I need to find balance and just pursue health as best I can. I may not be able to drop weight as I once did but perhaps God’s letting me learn how to live in a life less extreme.
Walking the Talk: Today I will begin posting my weight ,daily, on the right side of my Consumed by the Call Blog page. I‘m seeking some accountability here. I need it. Please take a look once and awhile and let me know that you’re watching me and my progress. I’m also going to start sending my journals to my group leader Diane. She hasn’t seen a journal from me in some time (over a year).
I’m not making any promises other than, I haven’t given up. People ask me all the time how I’m doing with my weight loss. If I was being totally forthright I would have told them “not good, I’m gaining weight” but I’ve had the same response for the last 3 plus years. I say and will continue to say, “I’m working on it”.

Today’s the Day

2011-05-10T13:08:00.001-05:00

Let me bring you up to speed on my biggest obstacle to date. For the last few months I’ve been dealing with a back injury. My MRI shows one degenerative, one herniated and one bulging disc all clumped together in my lower lumbar region. To be quite honest my weight loss journey hit a massive road block. My mind refused to accept my current situation and I slipped. I started eating poorly and my motivation went straight out the window. I see people around me succeeding at there weight loss and physical fitness efforts and I’m jealous. Some days are better than others for me but just standing for 15 minutes starts to aggravate my back. I spend most of my time working at my computer or watching TV. To be honest I wanted control back. I wanted to run, lift weights, do Zumba and other workouts with my groups. Instead I’m worried about what happens if I do too much. I moved a little table with Kya on Sunday and I was hurting all day. It really plays with your mind. Especially since it took me years to be as active as I had become. Now I feel like I’m back at square one. Fat Kevin waiting to rise from the ashes and take over again. Lord, please don’t let that happen. Every day I pray for a Miracle. I want God to make things better. I want God to restore me. All the while I ask that He continue to make me the man He would have me be. Just as long as it lines up with what I want too. Do you see where I’m going with this blog post. This morning I took a long hard look at my situation. I’m the “No Excuses” guy making my own new excuses, As if I can’t trust God to guide me through this. I’ve tried to figure this out for the last two months and the only thing that I realized is, I can’t. God can. I’m Through wanting and I’m just going to trust. I’m trusting God is at work in me. I’m honestly leaning on Him today and my day already has been better. Todays Devotions really got me thinking about where I’m at in my journey and where I’m headed. Part of Psalm 23 says “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want”

Today I’m just trusting God. It’s amazing what God does when we release control. It’s not easy for me but today is looking good. I may not be winning the race or burning the candle at both ends but I’m following the light of my life. My shepherd.

Out of Control

2011-04-18T09:42:00.001-05:00

This week I’ve had the subject of control on my mind. You might know someone who is a control freak. They wont let anyone help or contribute because they fear it wont be just right or they think they can do it better than anyone else. I will admit, I’m a control freak. Most of my life I’ve criticized others for how things have been done or not done. In the back of my mind I’m thinking I could do it better. This might be some genetic trait or it could be how I was raised, I’m not sure. I do remember as a child my father saying “If you want it done right, Do it yourself”. Maybe you have heard that phrase before. Most of my life I just did it myself. Whatever it was that was most important to me. It was almost impossible for my to give control over to someone else. Now in my mid 30’s I know I can’t do everything better. I do have some specific gifts but I do my best to differ to others who are more wise. I do my best to listen to others and I challenge myself to allow others to control areas of my life and ministries. It’s not easy and I stumble (often). I ministered to a youth about 11 years ago who told me to “Not sweat the small stuff”. He saw how uptight I was and just how controlling I could be. His words have been firmly planted into my brain. Sometimes I have to take a step back and evaluate how important things and situations are in my life. I’ve been blessed by stepping back and letting God work in my life. I thought I was in control of my life as a young man but as most of you know, something was seriously out of control. My relationship with food was incredibly destructive. Over the last three years I’ve lost a lot of weight but I’ve grown. I’m stepping out of God’s way and actively seeking His guidance. Not always but I’m making a solid effort. For most things in life my way doesn’t work. But when we release control God steps in and truly blesses us. I believe most of the time my desires can pull me off track of what God wants for me. I’d rather eat a high calories fattening meal but I know that’s not honoring this body, Gods temple. Maybe food isn’t an issue for you, maybe you drink too much alcohol or you smoke like a chimney. Whatever you do, ask yourself who is in control? Is God in control or are you going rouge. I challenge you this week to ask yourself why you are doing what it is you are doing (or not). Make the change, step back and give God control of your life.

Lights Out , 2

2011-04-03T07:47:00.001-05:00

Many of you know that my family just completed our annual ‘Lights Out” week. During Lights out we don’t use our car. We shut off the heat, hot water and tape the fridge shut. We don’t use anything that is electric or battery operated. We basically take all modern conveniences out of our life for a week. It is our way of focusing on the basics of life. When we our technology dominated world is in full swing we often take the simple things in life for granted. I hadn’t seen the sun rise in years. One morning I woke up and stood in my living room watching the beauty of the rainbow colored clouds as God introduced light to our day. Then that night again I watched as the day came to a close and the sun set. I hadn’t don’t that it many, many years. It was a gift I will cherish for a long time. It is simple and it happens daily but often life's schedules, routines and worries prevent me from noticing Gods creation. My mind is so busy I forget to stop and listen to the birds sing.

This lights out week for me and I hope Kirsten and the children will be memorable. We froze as the house dipped below 48 degrees and we could see our breath. I honest have no idea how cold it got inside but we survived. I heated rocked on the camp fire and provided a little bit of warmth for my family. Kya loved the hot rock on her feet and It was amazing for Kirsten. Her ice toes were wicked cold until we got a rot rock on them. Kirsten’s Grandma shared that wonderful idea and I know everyone appreciated it. We had a lot of laughs and we managed to get a lot of work done.

Kirsten and I tilled our 15’ x 15’ garden by hand. The kids helped by breaking the large chunks up with various hand tools. Everyone got into the process of working the land like they did back in the 1800’s. I wish the kids had been a bit more helpful but I’m confident as the years go by they will get into this lights out “work” more and more.

I’ll get to the why we do it in a bit. Back to the how. Kirsten and I leave our circuit breaker on. and unplug anything that isn’t required to run. Our freezer needed to run so we just tape that shut. Anything that might be used with a flip of the switch gets tape over the switch. Electronic toys get boxed or placed “away”. I powered down my pc (for the last time) and unplugged all the power strips. The whole process only takes a few minutes and you’re in the dark. All our food was cooked on our outdoor fire pit. I’ve practiced making fire in the ran and can pretty much get a fire going in any condition. I managed to make bacon and eggs in a freak snow storm this week. I was getting pelted with giant snow clusters as I tended to our breakfast in the back yard. My fire pit cooked all our food and beverage this week. I sawed and chopped the wood I needed each day to keep the fire going. Kirsten would prep bread and I would get the coals ready to back it. We worked very well together this week but that isn’t unusual. We are a great team.

As far as keeping busy, most days we walked to the store for the days groceries and we worked the land and cleaned out our garage. My garage is so clean now. I love it. On the one day it was overcast and rainy with snow, we stayed inside and tried to get warm. I read a bit and we talked. It was peaceful. Even in the rain we had the usual chores to accomplish. Make fire, cook food, feed kids an ourselves, get supplies, prepare for next day, get hot water ready to wash up and get to bed. It was challenging and fun.

Now back to the why. Why would I shut off my electric and make life harder. Well, Kirsten and I originally thought it would be a good idea for the kids. They would appreciate all that has been provided for them. They all have a lot of toys and gadgets and its important to Kirsten and I that they realize just how much they have. They do take it for granted or at least they did before we started these lights out weeks. This year Kirsten and I talked about the world and how this week is the beginning of teaching our kids how to survive if they find themselves in a challenging situation. Looking back at resent catastrophes that have left people without power, our lights out week is a way for us to prepare our kids to survive if they ever needed to. Kirsten and I talked about how so many people we know would get lost if they didn’t get there make up on just right or there hair wasn’t blow dry or if they couldn’t txt a friend. My kids got past the superficial and dived head first into survival this week. Kirsten and I are teaching life lessons to our kids. I hope they never are put into a situation where they need the knowledge we are sharing with them but as a parent I’m glad I can prepare them for what ever the future hold.

Reveal Yourself

2011-02-14T15:49:00.001-06:00

I’ve been going through a book entitled “ A Course in Weight Loss” By Marianne Williamson. I just finished chapter 4 today and I have to say, I love this book. It speaks to who I was, who I am and who I’m becoming. Today’s lesson was about allowing my real self to emerge. I’ve given myself over to the “dark side” so to speak, and that has created depression and shame in my life. Not to mention it was totally visible by looking at my 455lb being.

As I have been on my weight loss journey of rediscovering who I am, I’ve been allowing the real me to be seen. I’m happy and truly enjoying what life has to offer. I’m setting goals that are healthy and challenging. In lesson 4 we were challenged to allow our thin selves to be revealed. I’m in the process now. One of the activities we were given was to find pictures of what we want our perfect self to look like. I’ve been doing this practice for some time and today I wrestled with it a bit. I’ll never look like a body builder with smooth skin. I’ll never look good with no shirt on (excess skin). I’ve accepted that fact. But for the purpose of the exercise I picture myself at the best physical condition doing the activities I love.

I may never be the perfect specimen with the amazing body but my spirit is in a great place now. God has been at work in me and I see what he has been working on. I’m flawed like the rest of us but God continues to use me in this broken state all the while restoring me to His perfection. It’s amazing the blessings God has given me. It is humbling to be sitting here writing this knowing just how much God loves me. I pray today you find God’s love and seek His will for your life and health. “Expect a Miracle” He will deliver.

Anticipation

2011-01-14T01:12:00.001-06:00

So it’s after midnight and I’ve been awake thinking about winter retreat and all the other events that are coming in the next few months. I was thinking about how I need a challenge to lose 40 more pounds. I’m already planning my menu for the next three plus months. I’m figuring out my workout routines and looking forward to dropping those pounds. Many of you know that our local GetFit challenge has turned into an infinite weight loss program. I really need the challenge to get me competitive and excited to workout all the time. So I created, with the help of my Christ First Friends, the GodFit Challenge. It will last three months and I’ve tied it to our Christ First program. I’m really ready to step it up. The holidays have taken there toll on me.

As I consider all the other things I’m looking forward to I can see where the anticipation is keeping me awake. I have an amazing group of Middle School kids. We are hosting an after school program for 20+ youth each Thursday from 3-5pm. It’s a lot of fun getting to know all the new kids. I’m truly blessed to have an opportunity to be part of their lives. I’m also thinking about my Christ First friends and the new members we are about to share our stories with. I’m amazed how God is using me in the lives of people who struggle with weight just like I do. I’ve come a long way in the last few years and it is crazy to think how different my life used to be. I’m anticipating my training to begin for the triathlon (my first) I’m going to do this summer. I’m also considering doing a half marathon.

And my youth are in the middle of fund raising for our Helix Youth Ministry. We are selling Super Bowl Subs. After Super Bowl Sunday I get a slight break from big events for a couple of weeks and then I’ll focus on my first 24 hour lock-in for Middle School Helix. It’s going to be insane, or at least I must be to think I can pull something like that off. We shall see. I’m looking forward to trying something different and new things always bring the creativity out of me. I can’t wait!

Emotional Run, God and I talked today.

2010-10-15T11:54:00.001-05:00

So I didn’t want to run today. everything inside me said forget it, relax. I had gotten on the scale this morning and the number were up and it frustrates me because I’m working so hard and keeping my calories right were they need to be. I had to keep telling myself to push on and trust that God’s at work. Sometimes that is easier than others. Today it was really hard. I dropped Kalel off at Preschool and I had already dressed in workout clothes so I hit the pavement for a little one on one time with God. He was going to get an earful from me this morning.

Well, God did most of the talking today. I cried as I ran. I was flooded with emotion on just how much God in in control and I just need to trust he is at work in me and His plan will continue to be a blessing in my life. No matter what the scale says, today! God has been at work with in my life yesterday, today and He will be tomorrow as well. As I looked back at the last several years of my life I realized how the scale has moved the direction I wanted but rarely at the speed at which I have desired. If it had I may not have relied on God for strength as much as I did and continue to.

God’s timing is perfect. God brought the past to my mind and made me realize how blessed I am today! As you go about your day today, take some time to chat with God. He wants to talk with you. Maybe you need some reassurance about His plan for your life. Maybe Your frustrated with the scale like I was today. Ask God what’s up and He will answer.

What's Next

2010-08-26T14:57:00.001-05:00

Many of you have read my blog posts for some time and know that I have been on a long journey. One that hasn’t ended but is changing. The changes in my life have been gradual over the last two + years and these changes have given me the ability to do some stuff I’ve always wanted to do. One of those things was to ride the Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America.

My size limited what I was able to do and that lead me down a dark path inside. I had given up hope. I accepted my size and decided food was my friend. I ate everything. Food was my drug of choice. Today I’m making better choices. Each day I work to make Christ the focus of my life. I reach for God’s will in my life and I have to say, His way is full of hope for tomorrow. I didn’t feel that before I started to turn my eating habits over to God.

Maybe your like me or that person I used to be. Maybe you have lost all hope and are unwilling to give God full control of your life. I want to tell you today, that God wants for you to live an amazing hope filled life. It will take some commitment and dedication on your part but God will give you the strength you need to reach your goals. God has given me my freedom from the chains of my old ways. I’ve changed and you can too.

My journey isn’t over but it has changed again. I’m looking at fitness as fun and I enjoy working out now. I love how good I feel after a long run or a session of weight training. I’ve also begun to share what I have learned with others. I’m now leading three weight loss groups with my wife Kirsten. Through our Christ First weight loss groups we share with people just like us who struggle with weight and all it’s ugly chains. I like being able to support others as they begin this journey of life restoration. I’m glad I’m able to help others find freedom and hope, just like those who helped me begin my own journey of restoration.

“So what’s next” my wife says to me after a day of riding the roller coasters. I hesitated for a moment as all the possibilities flooded my mind. With God’s strength and guidance I’m capable of doing anything I set my mind to. So my answer was “ a triathlon”. I’m going for it next July.

Pet Peeve Rant

2010-08-09T11:02:00.001-05:00

Ok, Last night at 11pm the neighbor was knocking on my door. Someone let our dog Jake outside to do his business and no one waited to let him back into the house. This has happened so many times before. One time Kya left the dog out in a snow storm. Our dog has been picked up by animal control before as well. This drives me crazy.

When I let the dog out I wait at the door till he runs back. It’s not hard to let him back in. It just takes a bit of patience. 5 minutes tops. I’m so tired of my kids and Kirsten forgetting the dog. If you would like to give my dog a loving home, please let me know. My family just leaves him outside like the trash, hoping someone else will take care of him.

So why the rant? My neighbor has brought our dog to our attention for the umpteenth time this year. Then this morning The kids swear MOM left him outside again. I’m this close to rigging up some sort of electronic reminder that the dog is outside. How ridiculous is that. NO MORE PETS! I’m done with it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Livestrong.com

2010-07-19T13:32:00.001-05:00

So I have been using the Livestrong.com website to track my calories and fitness. I’ve attached the links to the right hand side of my blogger website so you can look at what I’m eating and doing. To be honest this week wasn’t one of my best. I ate way too much. I was going to try using my net calories and I did. Unfortunately I didn’t lose weight either. I’m going back to using my old method of consumed calories. All the exercise will add to the weight loss.

40 Pound Challenge

2010-07-09T09:37:00.001-05:00

Just the other day I was sitting at dinner with my family from NJ and I challenged my younger brother to a 40 pound weight loss by Dec. I thought he wasn’t going to take me seriously but to my surprise he accepted the challenge. I really needed a push to take my weight loss further and my brother has always been willing to help push me. My brother has stopped working out in the last few years and he expressed a desire to get back to working out. I thought this challenge would be a great kick in the pants for both of us. I’m going to post my progress each week on Facebook to keep the pressure on. I need to be accountable for all I do and eat. I know how important it is to be accountable to someone when trying to change old habits. Even after two + years of discipline I make bad choices from time to time. These bad choices can snowball into days and even weeks of unhealthy living. I’m ready to make the next push towards my final weight loss goal. With Gods guidance and my Facebook friends watching, I know I can succeed.

2010-06-19T18:41:00.000-05:00

Blue Angels

2010-06-19T18:16:00.001-05:00

Good day of driving. Kirsten and I are hoping to eat. Our healthy lifestyle is creating quite a challenge for us. Tonight we are going to eat out at Ed’s Fish Shack or something like that. I’m hoping they can grill us some chicken with steamed veggies. Keep your fingers crossed, otherwise I’m going to be a hungry boy.

We saw the Blue Angles today as we drove. One of the fighters flew right over our care at below ceiling altitudes. The car shock, It was awesome!. I was so startled because I started to cross an overpass and I look to my left and I saw the canopy of the jet glaring at me. It was so close. Way cool!

The River

2010-06-16T10:55:00.001-05:00

I was going through my music today. I was making playlists for our mission trip. For my workouts and stuff. I came across a song I hadn’t listened to in quite some time. It’s amazing how time and experience changes what songs mean to us. This song talked about life and its difficulties. Read the lyrics and listen to the song in this video.

garth brooks -- the river @ Yahoo! Video

You know a dream is like a river Ever changin' as it flows And a dreamer's just a vessel That must follow where it goes Trying to learn from what's behind you And never knowing what's in store Makes each day a constant battle Just to stay between the shores...and I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry Like a bird upon the wind These waters are my sky I'll never reach my destination If I never try So I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry Too many times we stand aside And let the waters slip away 'Til what we put off 'til tomorrow Has now become today So don't you sit upon the shoreline And say you're satisfied Choose to chance the rapids And dare to dance the tide...yes I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry Like a bird upon the wind These waters are my sky I'll never reach my destination If I never try So I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry There's bound to be rough waters And I know I'll take some falls But with the good Lord as my captain I can make it through them all...yes

I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry Like a bird upon the wind These waters are my sky I'll never reach my destination If I never try So I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry Yes, I will sail my vessel 'Til the river runs dry 'Til the river runs dry

Today as you go about your lives, I challenge you to look back on what God has done for you. Look at how God has continued to mold you into His creation. God never ceases to amaze me.

Healthy Choices

2010-06-11T10:33:00.001-05:00

Kirsten and I were talking last night about how others around us perceive our decision to eat health. I would argue, that is, to eat properly or the correct way. God wants us to fuel our bodies and make them the best they can be. When others see me choosing food I can eat while avoiding the other options available they almost turn there nose up at me. It really bugs me. For all you folks out there who give friends and family a hard time for being healthy, listen up.

Would you serve alcohol to an alcoholic or would you find that socially unacceptable?

Would you serve meat to a vegetarian?

If you knew a guest was on a Dr. prescribed restrictive diet, would you try to accommodate there needs? (Crohn’s Disease, Allergies, ect….)

My gut reaction is of course you would take action to make sure your guests could eat what you prepare. Then there are those of us who are making a choice to do the right thing and eat healthy. Many look at us as though we are asking too much. To all you people who think I should eat what is served, no matter what: Sorry! It’s not going to happen. I like Organic Meat, Produce and Fruit. Keep your chemical soaked, cancer foods for yourself. I like health food choices that don’t include Pies, tarts, goulash, casseroles and whatever else came from a can or the chemistry lab.

It bugs me that others who are trying to make healthy choices have to navigate these type of situations. It’s often so political and I see them buckling to there temptations. They don’t want to hurt feeling or to ask for special concessions. I say forget about asking and broadcast your needs before you show up. Let people know your doing the right thing and you demand respect for the choices you are making. Part of that respect is serving food all your guests can and should eat. OK, I’m being overly dramatic so hold off on the hate mail. I’ll just delete it anyway.:)

Listen, God’s Way

2010-06-10T11:52:00.001-05:00

A reoccurring theme in my life is listening. I’m sure I’ve written about this topic before but it’s worth repeating, because sometimes we aren’t listening. I have many personal experiences about not listening. I’m sure you do as well. One such instance of me not listening was when I left my dad’s tools out in the back yard (not the first or the last time). My dad had a bunch of tools for just about any job and I liked to take stuff apart and fix stuff. I asked if I could have the key to his tools and he gladly gave me the key and said be sure to put everything back when you’re done. So I remember helping fix my friend’s bike and after we got it working, we rode off. I forget to put my dad’s tools back where they belonged. Well the next day before my dad went to work he noticed the tools covered in morning dew beginning to rust. Let’s just say I was awakened quite abruptly that morning. He was furious. He was so mad that I hadn’t listened to his request, to put the tools away when I was done. I wonder how God feels when we don’t listen to, parents, family, friends, and to God.

Have you had times in your life when you didn’t listen, or you didn’t fully grasp what was said to you due to your mind being elsewhere? For me that seems like a daily occurrence. I want to listen but I’m drawn to other things. God has been working in me to truly listen to others and to work at avoiding those other things that get in my way of listening. I find myself spending more time in prayer and reflection each day. I’m actively pursuing Gods guidance in all areas of my life and ministry. I’m trying to listen to what God is saying to me.

To be honest I didn’t always do this. I usually trusted in my own abilities and understanding. The more I realized that “I” was getting in the way of Gods work in me, the more I began to listen, to God. I have lots of opinions and crazy ideas, some of which get me in trouble from time to time. But what I have realized is that I must first stop my own mind and focus in on God and listen for the guidance I truly need.

Today as you go about your business and daily actives be sure to hear God in your life. Maybe God is speaking to you through, parents, family, friends or a situation. Maybe God wants you to stop focusing on “you” and more on God. My way isn’t always the right way, God’s way is.

Drop Box

2010-05-31T06:29:00.000-05:00

2010-05-29T10:49:00.001-05:00

Eckert Family Light Out Week

2010-03-25T17:20:00.001-05:00

So our Lights out week is about to start. Kirsten and I have been talking about this for a long time. Almost two years. We plan to unplug everything electronic and not use anything that runs on batteries as well. There may be times we use the car but our goal is to keep those times to a minimum. I won’t be able to figure out my calorie burn or watch biggest loser but I’m excited about spending time away from the distractions. I’m looking forward to cooking all our meals on the open fire. Our diets will be a little crazy and my journaling will be done old school (pen and paper) I’ll have to figure out how well I did on Easter Sunday. That will be the first time we turn everything back on. Our plan is to do this for seven days. It will be like camping (not my favorite). I’m hoping my kids enjoy the time together. We will be avoiding processed foods too. Kirsten and I are trying to make the experience like it would have been at the turn of the century. Kya was telling me the stuff she liked and if it was invented before the 1900’s we can eat it. Smore’s and hot dogs were so she is super happy. I know hot dogs are processed so that may be a lunch choice. Kirsten and I will be off the grid when we are not at work. I will not be looking at my personal Facebook stuff but I will be doing anything computer related to getting my job done. Kirsten and I are not taking time off of work for this . I’ll be with the kids in and am and Kirsten gets them in the afternoon. Then we have a family meal and games together in the evening. Hopefully the weather is nice. My cellphone will not be one during our lights out week. If you need me for church related stuff please call the church at 815-235-2824 same for Kirsten. Otherwise we will have a spot by the fire waiting for you if you want to stop buy and visit.

God is speaking, Are you listening to Him?

2010-02-12T11:48:00.001-06:00

So today I was working on my daily bible study and it hit me that things in my life are changing. Mainly because I'm following God's lead. My body is being restored to the temple God wants it to be. I feel great about that. I'm happy now, the sadness of my former self has faded into the distant past. Daily, God shows me how he want to use me to lead other through this life transformation and life restoration. I trust His lead each and every step. God's purpose for my life is so evident today. I'm here to serve my Lord with every moment. I seek His guidance and He leads me. God constantly blesses me and my family. I'm amazed at how God is working to restore not just my body, but my life. He nudges me to work on my relationships with those around me and he even gives me the strength to resist bad habits. God is even restoring my financial situation. It all starts with seeking God's guidance. Once I began to seek God in all areas of my life what He wants me to do becomes focused and clear. My home life is well on the way to becoming something to be proud of. Kirsten and I have never been so close and I'm truly blessed because of God's Devine hand in my life. All this change has made me look at my ministry and seek God's guidance and will. God called me to be His servant and up until now I've done that within my own comfort zone and up to a point. I haven't always made choices that were healthy or worthy of a strong Christian. I suppose we all can say that about our lives too. I'm really taking a hard look at my ministries at St. John UCC and seek what God is calling of me at St. John. Today we are working on a great Christian Fitness & Nutrition Group. I know God is calling me to help others be restored Physically, Mentally, Spiritually, and Emotionally. That truly has permeated every area of my life and It is about to change my youth ministry. I'm not sure how but I know it will. In 2010 God will be changing things at St. John United Church of Christ. I will be an active part of the changes He is about to make. I'm his servant here to do his will. I'll embrace the changes He places before me and my ministries. As I step forward into this new year this verse will echo in my mind.

I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies. The ropes of death entangled me; floods of destruction swept over me. The grave* wrapped its ropes around me; death laid a trap in my path. But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry to him reached his ears.

Psalm 18:1-6

And God heard me. Now I’m listening. God is speaking, Are you listening to Him?

Check this out!

2010-01-20T15:09:00.001-06:00

http://www.pingg.com/rsvp/g2yt8z2k7q85t5qxq

New Group Starting

2010-01-12T19:15:00.001-06:00

Our new FP4H group will be starting on January 25th at 4:30pm-6pm. This group will keep a food journal and be provided with a book of daily devotions as well as an audio weight loss devotion. We will be cooking together and working out together as well. If your interested joining our group please contact me at Skorkeper@gmail.com.

Five Finger Discount

2009-12-25T10:15:00.002-06:00

So I’ve dealt with the topic of stealing for a long time in my Ministry. Youth steal music and computer stuff quite regularly. No matter how much I convey what God wants us to do, many of my students choose to do the wrong thing. This week the theft that permeates my students lives was very present and in my face. I had a student go Christmas shopping (lifting) at Wal-Mart. Although many kids are tempted by getting something for nothing I was sure this child would never do this. I’m disappointed with the choice this youth made, very disappointed.
I’ve been thinking about this for several days and this morning at breakfast I was talking with Kirsten about poor choices we had made as teens. I thought it was interesting and decided to share my thoughts about theft here on my blog.

It’s not what you get it’s about what you give.

This holiday, Christmas, is about the gift given to us through the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. We give gifts to each other to remember it is Christ’s birthday. This Holiday I hope you give the gift of love to those you care about and worry less about the trinkets and doo dads that cloud the truth of Christ’s coming and presence in our lives. The true meaning of Christmas.

If you steal it, was it really yours to give?

Taking something from someone who has so much more than you seems acceptable to many people these days. People justify their actions to the point of feeling good about their decision until! They get caught. Then the consequences of your actions Should be present on your heart.
What does that look like for me? Well as a child I remember stealing a Baby Ruth candy bar from the corner store. I got out the door jumped on my bike and almost immediately my soul was overcome with guilt. I dropped my bike and walked back into the store to return what was not mine. I was ashamed of my poor decision. Today I don’t see youth and others really caring about those they steal from or the effects stealing has on them. It’s often a joke to many of the youth. This saddens me and makes me realize just how much the coming of Christ is needed in the lives of the youth I minister to. Their minds are filled with “What about Me!” and “What did I get?”.
Today I pray that you focus less on that Ipod or that amazing gift you so desperately “needed” and focus more on the savior born. I pray that we all see Christ reborn in our lives this Christmas. I pray that his birth mark a new day in our lives. The beginning of giving instead of taking. Allow God to fill your soul this holiday and throughout the year. Allow God to provide all you truly need.

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The Snowcuzzi

2009-12-23T12:08:00.001-06:00

So today I decided to play with the kids in the snow. I put on my heart rate monitor and figured I would monitor and log the workout. This was officially the best workout I’ve ever had. I burned 2445 calories in 2 hours and 45 minutes. It’s hard to see from the picture but the inside of this snow structure has seating. The top is open so we can look at the stars tonight (I haven’t figured out the igloo thing yet!). It is about 4 feet tall and 12 feet in diameter. Its the biggest I’ve ever done. The kids were a huge help.

New Beginnings

2009-11-09T11:46:00.001-06:00

“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”

Today I will start a new youth group for youth who are interested in making a change. They have seen the road they are headed down and desire something different. For some of them it may be health or weight issues, for others it may be a desire to live a healthier more active lifestyle. Today as you read this I ask that you consider making today a new beginning for yourself. Maybe you have avoided your weekly workouts or you ate a bit too much this weekend. Maybe you just need a change from the path your headed down. Maybe God has been working on you for awhile now and you need to decide to follow his lead. Let God change your life today and seek his guidance.

God Can Change Your Life

2009-10-16T16:57:00.001-05:00

I’m so excited to share with you that on November 9th at 5pm I will be leading a brand new Youth Group. This group will be very different from our regular Helix Youth Ministry. This new group will focus on the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. God has been preparing me for this ministry since I was in grade school. Let me tell you how. As a child raised in a Christian home my parent put a large emphasis on a personal relationship with God. My parents were good parents who loved us very much. My mom taught me how to bake and cook. My father taught me how to use tools. I learned at a young age that food was good and I could make anything I wanted, in large quantities. I could also fix just about anything. My mom and I always struggled with food and our weight. I’ve never been able to fix that. I have tried every diet with my mom. In high school I worked very hard to be at a “normal” weight but I never achieved that goal. I was depressed through most of my adolescence and my weight was at the root of my depression. My faith in God and my pursuit of health was never brought together during my time living with my parents. As a young man I tried to power lift to get my weight under control. I learned how to work out but I never incorporated my faith or God into my efforts for health. Without giving God all the control in my life I have constantly fallen short of who He wants me to be. It wasn’t until the fall of 2007 that I began to listen to god calling me to change. I weighed in at well over 455lbs and the depression was overwhelming. That Holiday season was one of the most difficult I’ve been through. I had suffered health issues which I truly believed was God trying to get my attention. God kept working on me and one day I saw a little sign on the door of my daughter’s preschool class. It said First Place faith based weight loss program, Call the office to sign-up. I’m flooded with emotion just thinking about that day and how it has changed my whole world, my life and my relationship with God. God has always been working in my life to make me His servant, Always. I look back on everything the Lord has brought me through and see how God has been preparing me to serve. On Nov. 9th I get to take all my knowledge about health both my successes and failures, and share them with the youth of this community. I get the share the Healing love of Christ with these young Christians. It’s such an honor and a blessing each and every day I get to share my life experience with our youth. I’ll get to share with them how to prepare healthy meals and to how to seek God’s guidance in living a healthy lifestyle. I definitely have some unique stories and experiences I bring to the table. I’m really excited to see how God will use this new ministry in my life and the lives of the youth of this community. Adult classes are starting soon as well. God can help you. Give God the control over your life.

Faith Based Weight Loss Program. Call the office to sign-up.

God can change your life.

St. John UCC 815-235-2824 Prince of Peace 815-232-4911

3000 Calories

2009-10-14T09:02:00.001-05:00

So today my goal is to burn 3000 extra calories. I got up early and went for a 4 mile walk. I burned 1000. I’m taking a break for breakfast then I’ll jump on the elliptical and do 30 minutes of aerobics. I should hit 3000 if I push myself. I’ve never burned 3000 extra calories in one day so this should be fun. Below is the path I walked on.

View Larger Map

Fit For The King

2009-10-06T15:12:00.001-05:00

I’ve spent some time reading through this resource and found some great pieces of information. I really like the commitment part of the book. You’re asked to sign a contract to honor the Lord’s possessions. You are one of His possessions. The day you asked Jesus to take the wheel, you gave yourself to him. We are temples of Christ. My temple is a little more shabby than chic. I know I need to be committed to restoring this temple for the Lord, whether it takes 40 days or 40 years.

One of my favorite pieces included with this 40 day faith based weight loss book was the DVD workout. Thomas Hundley has a great rhythm and really makes you want to workout with him. I’ll be trying the workout routine this week. I’ll let you know if it kicks my butt.

My Concerns about this book:

I have a couple. The calorie range of the days meal plan left me feeling hungry just reading it. I know men burn more calories than women but that isn’t accounted for in this plan. Some days of the week men will eat only 1200-1600 calories. To me that doesn’t seem sustainable long term. I also notice the last two days of this program included fasting for breakfast. That means your calorie range for the day would be 1000-1400 for those two days. Then after those breakfast free days you weigh in. Talk about a false result. I was also disappointed by the lack of what happens after the 40 days. I’ve been working al losing weight for far more than 40 days. 40 days is a great biblical reference but it seems like he forgot to encourage those in need to continue there efforts beyond the 40 days. His next book should be Fit for the King, after the 40 days and into the rest of your life.

First Place 4 Health for Teens

2009-10-06T14:13:00.001-05:00

I’ve been in the process of forming the Faith based fitness and nutrition group for teens. One of my thoughts is to use my technology gifts by creating an Audio/Video daily bible study. Below is a rough concept sample. I know in our adult FP4H group we struggle at time to do the daily study. I know if an audio version was sent to my e-mail daily I would take time to listen and reflect. I think I can use the video to reinforce the bible topics and keep things interesting. This is a concept that I’d like to pursue.

TEENS

If you had a choice between a short video lesson with music or a paper version, what would you prefer and why?

Youth Faith Based Weight Loss Program

2009-09-29T20:13:00.001-05:00

Many of you know I have lost 120 lbs over the last 18 months. I’ve been very involved with the First Place 4 Health program. I’m currently developing a program for teenagers and college students. One of the aspects of this group will be teaching about proper nutrition and healthy choice alternatives. We will reinvent some our most favorite snacks during our time together. We all love snacks and learning how to make good choices is key to a healthy lifestyle. I’m going to spend the next few weeks immersing myself in the teen diet resources available from Amazon. I’ve ordered a lot of books and I plan to step away from the computer and absorb all I can about teen nutrition. My hope is to create a small group of dedicated students that will explore how God can radically change our lives. I have to say it does take work, but I know It will be fun. If you are between the ages of 14-25 in Freeport, IL and are interested in hanging out with us as we start this journey, please send me an email. Skorkeper@gmail.com This group will be starting at Prince of Peace in the next few weeks.

Do you have any ideas or suggestions for my new group? Let me know what they are. I'd love to chat with you about this exciting new youth program. Also keep this in your prayers. I’m really stoked about it.

Here is a list of the resources I will be reading in the next few weeks.

Healthy Treats and Super Snacks for Kids

Fed Up!: Winning the War Against Childhood Obesity

Quick Meals for Healthy Kids and Busy Parents: Wholesome Family Recipes in 30 Minutes or Less From Three Leading Child Nutrition Experts

Teens Cook: How to Cook What You Want to Eat

Clueless in the Kitchen: A Cookbook for Teens and other Beginners (The Clueless series)

Lose It for Life for Teens

Rescuing the Emotional Lives of Overweight Children: What Our Kids Go Through - And How We Can Help

Fit for the King

The Sierras Weight-Loss Solution for Teens and Kids: A Scientifically Based Program from the Highly Acclaimed Weight-Loss School

Rally Day 2009

2009-09-17T14:50:00.001-05:00

One Plants

2009-09-14T13:52:00.001-05:00

This sermon is by far the best Sermon I have heard preached at St. John UCC. If you missed it or just want to hear it again here it is. Please share this with friends and family. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this message as well. Please leave me some comments. http://stjohnuccfreeport.blogspot.com/2009/09/one-plants.html

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

2009-09-03T07:29:00.001-05:00

They are coming to our area on September 9th. Kirsten and I signed up to help. Volunteer spots filled up in 5 hours. I can’t wait.

My Fathers Creations

2009-08-28T10:32:00.001-05:00

I just finished making my dad a blog for all his custom wood working creations. Check out his work. If your looking for some custom creations drop him an e-mail.

www.davideckert.blogspot.com

September Youth Ministry Calendar

2009-08-14T09:34:00.001-05:00

Rally Day 2009 – Hallelujah Hoedown!

2009-08-07T09:25:00.001-05:00

This is going to be quite a memorable Rally Day. We will have a pig roast, Corn Boil, and awesome Hoedown activities. Save the date in your calendars. Sunday, September 13th following Sunday School (noon). Please join us. All food, beverages, and fun provided. All you need to bring is yourself and the family. YEEHAW!

iServe Geico Spoof

2009-07-30T17:12:00.001-05:00

This is one of the latest creation from the Helix Film School. I have a few students who join me each Thursday to learn how to use the Adobe video editing tools available. This is there second commercial. Keep up the great work guys.

Disc Golf

2009-07-15T17:21:00.001-05:00

We went to play disc golf at Krape park today. We had a great time and I have to say we will be going back soon. The course went through the woods and we had a lot of laughs along the way. If you haven’t tried the Krape park coarse please give it a try. It’s great fun.

One of the highlights of our park exploration was this beautiful expression of empty Beer containers. I had to laugh.

VBS Website

2009-07-15T12:01:00.001-05:00

I finished the VBS Website for this year and it is now accessible. Stop by each night to see new content uploaded starting July 20th. VBS is from July 19th-23rd. www.campvbs.blogspot.com

2009-07-11T14:23:00.001-05:00

Jane Addam’s Trail

2009-06-30T13:53:00.001-05:00

I found my favorite new spot to ride. I took the kids on a short ride up the Jane Addam’s Trail. It is very nice. I loved hoe it felt like I was just riding through the woods. The trail is solid but not paved. I’m looking forward to riding it with some of the youth group kids tomorrow.

I’m hoping Kirsten will enjoy riding with us. We borough a bike for her and we just bought her a helmet. I made a few adjustment to our bikes after the first ride and I can’t wait to go riding again. Maybe today if the rain hold off.

The Raging Bull Stole my Soul UPDATE!

2009-06-25T17:11:00.001-05:00

Well, long story short, I'm still too fat. It's not the update I was hoping to share but it is what it is. I'm still a work in progress and God isn't done with me yet, that's for sure. I'm motivated to reach a normal BMI and that will take time and commitment on my part. This trip made me know I'll get there but I still have work ahead of me to do all that God has in store for me. I wish i got on that ride but God was loud and clear, Its not time yet. I tried five rides (the big ones) and then decided I had enough and we left. I'm not leaving defeated this time. I'm leave determined and re energized. For the next 100lbs that need to go. I knew this was a possibility but it's still a little disappointing. What I know is that God is at work with in me and all things happen in His time.

My New Rig

2009-06-20T16:59:00.001-05:00

So I’m in the process of picking parts for a new home PC I’m going to build for my video editing/gaming needs. I’ve been looking at cases to get me excited about the new build. I’ve found the NZXT. LEXA Ultra light Aluminum Midtower.

I’m not sure how much this new pc is going to set me back but hopefully I can build it this fall. Until then I’ll continue to choose parts for it. If you have any suggestions let me know.

Helix Film School

2009-06-19T09:03:00.001-05:00

I had a good time yesterday sharing my video gadgets with my students. We looked at the difference between standard definition and HD. We will be looking at editing software next Thursday. If you ever wanted to learn how to edit your family videos feel free to join us. Thursdays 2-4pm.

Larger Than Life Video

2009-06-16T08:52:00.001-05:00

2009-06-14T12:49:00.000-05:00

Leaving walmart and didn't have lunch yet. This is just cruel.

Tonight’s Lock-in

2009-06-12T11:31:00.001-05:00

Well, after months of preparation, Tonight is the night. From 9pm till 7am we will have about 25 kids enjoying themselves at our Helix youth ministry overnighter. It’s been a lot of work and I still have to put the finishing touches on some of the games. Kirsten and I were talking and most often my Lock-ins require more mental planning. I create games and write up rules and instructions. (Survivor, Amazing Race). This lock-in I was building game pieces and moving stuff throughout the church. This lock-in required the most amount of setup I’ve ever done. I will post a video of the nights activities here soon.

2009-06-10T16:43:00.000-05:00

YOU SUNK MY BATTLESHIP.

2009-06-10T13:59:00.000-05:00

Setting up for larger than life lockin.

2009-06-02T18:51:00.002-05:00

We decided to do some jenga research.

Battleship

2009-05-28T17:27:00.002-05:00

So I just finished the first Battleship piece for the Larger than Life lock-in. It's the largest piece. This lock-in is going to be alot of fun. I hope I get some rest before that night.

The Raging Bull Took My Soul

2009-05-28T00:33:00.001-05:00

So here is a little story about my past. Back in 2003 I was about 430lbs. Maybe more. I wasn’t really weighing myself so it’s a guess. My wife wanted to take her little sister to great America for a day of fun on the rides. I was excited because I totally enjoyed the rides as a teen. I went to Six Flags Great Adventure in NJ. Well, we went to the park and we waited in line for several hours to get on the raging bull ( I think). Well we got to the place where you sit in the roller coaster and I plopped into the seat. I didn’t fit. I pulled down on the harness hoping for at least one click. My brain was racing thinking oh lord now what do I do. Everyone is looking at me. I got up and was devastated, mortified. I think I left a piece of my soul on that ride. I know it sounds stupid but I’ll never forget that moment. Maybe you can relate in some way. Maybe you didn’t fit into a group or into a normal seat like me. I was changed that day. I remember feeling like I needed to leave the park all day. I was miserable. I tried to diet after that but for those of you who have battled the bulge you know what a never ending battle it is. I gave up for several years. At one point my parents wanted me to talk with others who they knew who struggled with health complication from obesity. They wanted me to get better. I told them I would die young. I’m sure they were appalled at me, at my attitude.

That was the summer of 2003 thru late 2007. I just didn’t care about my size my aches and going on any rides. I gladly bought two tickets on the air plane. Whatever. Well something inside me in late 2007 changed. I wanted to change. I needed to change. I tried to workout but the holidays hit and I just fell off the wagon. Till one day in March 2008. I saw a sign at my daughter’s preschool that said First Place faith based weight loss.

I knew I saw that sign for a reason. I went home and told my wife I wanted to join. I asked if she would do it with me because I knew we would make a great team. She was excited and that is were my journey of change began. We followed the program and with Gods help I was able to make some awesome change in my life. The group we meet with each week totally support my wife and I. It’s like a little family get together each week. They have heard my stories and at some point I mentioned I wanted to get back on the rides. Well, I just passed my 100lb mark and at a group gathering they gave Kirsten and I tickets to great America. I was blown away. I was overjoyed at how they honored my weight loss. It’s one of the most touching things to have ever happened in my life. I got all choked up. I honestly almost lost it. I’m going to get on that ride and I’m going to take with me what I left there the summer of 2003. I’m hopeful that all will go well and I’m able to ride. I will be checking in with guest relations prior to getting in any lines. Evidently they can test to see if the equipment will accommodate me. Even if it doesn’t, Yet, I will enjoy the day looking at what is to come when I get down to were I need to be. But if I can ride I’ll truly enjoy myself. I will take picks and write up the experience for you all to share in my joy.

Large Jenga

2009-05-27T15:13:00.001-05:00

So this is one of the upscaled games that we have put together for the Larger than Life Lock-in. A big shout out goes to Teresa Green for putting all the boxes together for me, I really appreciate it.

2009-05-18T08:41:00.001-05:00

Date Night

2009-05-13T11:25:00.001-05:00

Kirsten and I went out on date night last night. We haven’t gone out on date night in a few weeks so it was the perfect time to use a gift card to Applebee's. We also went to see Star Trek.

All I can say is, WOW. This whole franchise has officially been recharged. The movie was awesome. The soundtrack was killer. I can’t wait for the next one. This movie is a must see.

Jumping From A Moving Car

2009-05-11T14:27:00.001-05:00

Have you ever jumped from a moving car or tried to step onto a treadmill that was moving a little too fast for comfort? We’ll that is what coming back to work feels like today. Too much to get done and I’m not quite up to speed yet.

2009-05-09T11:12:00.001-05:00

We just put in the new table my dad made us. It will work great for B@KH.

2009-05-08T12:41:00.000-05:00

So Kirsten and I just picked up some StarBucks. W decided to drive the rest of our trip home, today. We will hit Chicago during rush hour but thats ok. We will be back in our own bed tonight.

2009-05-08T12:35:00.000-05:00

2009-05-08T12:30:00.001-05:00

Kalel at the Liberty Science Center

2009-05-04T14:52:00.003-05:00

Kalel was playing in the light room with a flashlight and his hardhat.

The Video for Mom's 60th

2009-05-03T21:05:00.001-05:00

Mom's 60th B-day

2009-05-02T18:05:00.002-05:00

Mom'S 60th is a huge hit. The place was packed. Over 80 people stopped by for the party.

Playground

2009-04-30T12:26:00.001-05:00

The kids are loving the playground. We will be in NJ in about 3 and a half hours.

Lunch

2009-04-30T11:54:00.001-05:00

Stopped for lunch. We are playing with the ducks in Carlisle PA.

Morning Workout

2009-04-30T08:28:00.001-05:00

I tried the life fitness stepper. It was horrible so I switched to the True Recumbent bike. It was a great workout. I burned 620 calories.

Day Two, DS Stress

2009-04-29T16:01:00.001-05:00

So we arrived to the hotel in Pennsylvania. Not sure exactly were. The hotel is nice. I’ll be jumping into the pool in a little while. I checked out the Fitness room and I’m looking forward to trying the lifestyle stepper.

So back to this morning. We packed up and loaded the van for the second leg of our travel to NJ. Kirsten began to flip out because the kids misplaced the DS bag (2 units and 12 games). She went through everything in the van and the hotel room. It was no where to be found. I decided to go look through the room myself. It was under one of the blankets on the bed. No big deal. We haven’t experienced much stress today. We are getting ready for the pool. Hopefully its not as cold as the last pool.

My Weight loss So Far

2009-04-29T09:34:00.001-05:00

Here is my starting pic and one from November. The next one is from today, April 29th, 2009. I weighted in at 354 lbs. I can’t believe how far I have come in one year.

First Day of Vacation

2009-04-28T21:39:00.001-05:00

Well, We are having a good time. It was a stressful morning though. We went to pick up an I-Pass device and we found out that our rental van had toll Violations on it to the tune of $87. The toll way customer service center at the Belvidere Oasis decided that because we were driving a rental and didn’t have our personal car with us that he couldn’t sell us an I-Pass device. I got a little miffed at Enterprise and decided to see if I could get them to straighten the situation out. After three calls I headed back in to just pay the fines on the rental and get my I-Pass device.

I figured I could get Enterprise to credit me for the trouble at the end of my trip. I went back to the toll way Service counter and the gentlemen at the counter refused to let me pay someone else's toll violations, out of principal I suspect. He was astonished that I was even considering it. He then said get me your personal license plate number and I'll set it up on your car. I had a neighbor get my license plate # (i had no idea what it was). I set it up and was on my way. One note to mention in my conversations with Enterprise, they instructed me to blow the tolls. I told this to the toll way personnel and they were appalled. so was I. Kirsten did manage to get a hold of someone who gave a rip and they agreed that we would settle the issue when we returned to Freeport. Luckily I didn’t have to pay the toll violations. Crazy!! Well, we managed to make it into the pool here in Maumee, OH. We had fun and I had a workout. I’ll be working out on the Elliptical in the morning.

I’ve Reached 100

2009-04-27T08:40:00.001-05:00

I’ve made it so far this year. Hard work pays off. I’m really happy I’ve reached this point before my vacation. I was so close at the beginning of the week and now I can say I did it. I lost 100lbs in the last 12 months. It feels great. It will be even better next year. My Goal is to drop another 100lbs.

St. John’s Work Camp

2009-04-26T15:19:00.001-05:00

Mark your calendars we will be holding the first St. John UCC Helix Work Camp. We will be taking requests for work for the next two months. Please drop me an E-mail and we will get you on our work schedule for the week. We home to assist as many people as we can. Do you have a job that needs to get done but need extra hands. We can help. kevinstjohn@aeroinc.net Let Helix be your A Team.

Larger than Life “Overnighter”

2009-04-23T10:17:00.003-05:00

So I proposed an idea for our next lock-in and many of the youth were very interested. I’m in the process of up scaling several board games. One of the games is called Rumis.

Above are pictures of the original game. Each block is quite small so I have created pieces that are LARGER THAN LIFE!

This game at its tallest reached about 4 inches now it will be 5 feet. I have boxes that are the size of Jenga pieces as well. These boxes upscale Jenga from a game tower of about a foot high to a game towering seven feet. I’ll be sure to take lots of pictures the night we have the lock-in. I’m hoping for a June-July lock-in. If you have any other game ideas that I could upscale please let me know.

First Mobile Blog Post !!!!!!!

2009-04-22T14:57:00.002-05:00

I love the new FiberPlus bars.

Been too Busy.

2009-04-22T09:00:00.003-05:00

I've been off the blogging grid for a few weeks. I've been using all my "free" time to work on a big photo/video project. It will be released here the first week in May. Check back for more details.

Home Stretch

2009-04-04T18:03:00.004-05:00

So the FHN fit challenge ends in a few weeks and I want to meet my weight loss goal by then. I need to up my burned calories from exercise from 450cal a day to 1500cal. I managed to burn 10,000 calories from exercise this week. I will keep this pace up for the next few weeks until the end of the fit challenge and the beginning of my vacation. I'll be working out on my vacation but not to this extent.
I also joined a contest through NutriMirror.com that runs until april 27th. They are giving away this really awesome portable resistance band home Gym. Check it out.

I've been using my resistance band for a couple of months now and I love it. I could use this setup so I'm really working hard to shed the pound. If your looking for a weight loss program that works please check out First Place 4 Health and NutriMirror.com. It's working awesome for me. It wont be long before I hit a big milestone in my weight loss. I'll keep you posted.

Homemade Almond Butter

2009-04-02T19:34:00.002-05:00

So I've been on this crazy health kick and I heard that peanut butter has some toxicity. If your interested in doing the research just Google it. If not enjoy that PBJ, you only live once. I heard this and thought, are there other options. Is there a better choice I could make? I heard on Digg Nation that Almond Butter was delicious and full of antioxidants. So I thought I should try it. After looking at Walmart, Sullivans and Cubs we managed to find a 12oz jar for $8. I enjoyed it but I eat it every day. So I tried to make my own about a month ago but it just wasn't creamy enough. I did some more research and managed to make Almond butter with no added ingredients. That's right folks, Sodium free. Take a look at your peanut butter jar and tell me how much sodium you find per serving. If you decided to chart your sodium intake I bet you would be surprised. I know I was. It took alot of sacrifice to get my sodium under control. My homemade Almond butter is helping me enjoy the new choices I have made.

Hot Wheels, Beat That!

2009-03-31T11:27:00.003-05:00

Kalel and I were playing Hot Wheels games and decided to do some coloring too. Father and Son bonding is great!

Our Table Design For B@KH

2009-03-29T20:59:00.002-05:00

Survivor Lock-in Today

2009-03-21T07:03:00.001-05:00

I've been up since 5am this morning. I'm really looking forward to this all day lock-in. Kirsten and I will be heading out soon to set up the survivor challenges. Can't wait.

Camp Edge VBS

2009-03-18T09:45:00.002-05:00

We had our first VBS meeting last night and have decided to do Camp Edge this year. First UMC is hosting. I'm looking forward to our planning sessions and vbs.
Mark your calendars for July 19th-23rd 6:00-8:30pm

New Nerf Blaster Coming Soon

2009-03-16T17:58:00.001-05:00

I looks pretty wicked.

Con-10-Ders

2009-03-16T11:44:00.003-05:00

Our team for the FHN fit challenge came in first place for the midway point. For the last six weeks we have eaten five servings of fruits and veggies everyday. We have had a minimum of 32 ounces of water each day and we have worked out 5 days during the week for a minimum of 30 minutes. We also had to do stretching/weight training 3 times a week for 15 minutes minimum. I've lost 14lbs since February 1st and I'm feeling great. I can hardly believe we are already half way with the challenge. I so proud of our team.

Answered Prayer

2009-03-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

After a weekend of stress and difficult choices, God answers my prayers. Things worked out.

Choices

2009-03-14T20:48:00.001-05:00

I had to make some tough choices today. Please pray that everything works out for one of my youth group kids.

April Helix Calendar

2009-03-11T16:04:00.002-05:00

Biggest Loser

2009-03-10T23:44:00.002-05:00

Well, I lost 3 pound this week and I wasn't killing myself with 8 hr workouts. I also didn't binge on fatty foods and alcohol. I'm so disappointed, disgusted, appalled with the black team. I could see someone messing up but the entire team. What the heck. I'd love to have Jillian as my trainer. They truly take that for granted.

New Church Secretary

2009-03-05T18:09:00.002-06:00

And she's smokin hot. Before you get too disturbed by my blog. My wife is the new secretary. I'm glad she got the position. She's been a stay at home mom for awhile now and I know she will enjoy getting back to work.

New Game Demo

2009-03-02T08:11:00.002-06:00

This weekend I noticed that HAWX was released as a demo on the PS3. I gave it a spin and really enjoyed it. It's a lot of fun.

Reflections

2009-02-26T10:44:00.003-06:00

So I've been reflecting on the last 10 months of weight loss and how far I've come. I have a long road ahead of me but I'm very confident with God's help my fitness goals will be reached. I started my weight loss journey on April 16th 2008. I weighed in at 455lbs. The highest weight I had ever been at. Using the tools shown to me by First Place 4 Health and Nutrimirror.com I now weigh 369lbs. My short term goal is to lose another 14lbs by April 16th 2009. I want to be able to say I lost 100lbs. the first year, doing it the right way. Eating healthy and exercising. With dedication and the reassurance of my family and First Place 4 Health bible study group, I will continue to loss the weight and grow closer to God in the process.

If your struggling with your weight and need some support, we should talk. It isn't easy to change and I know that. Without the support of others and a strong relationship with God I would be depressed and unhealthy. If you want to make a change I'd be honored to share what I have learned. I need a workout partner too.

Hawx is coming

2009-02-20T19:35:00.002-06:00

I've been waiting for this game for almost a year now. I can't wait to play it. My favorite jet has always been the A-10 Warthog. I'm looking forward to flying some missions with it in this game.

Bullet Time = Slow Down

2009-02-20T18:50:00.002-06:00

So I'm realizing that it's about that time again. My programming has been planned out for months and my next big event isn't until March 21st. I have little things that people need me to get done for them and some long range projects but for the most part my life has entered into bullet time. Things slow down and I begin to anticipate the next wave of planning and activities. In a few weeks we will begin to plan for Promotion Sunday and VBS. Before you know it Rally day will be here again and the craziness will begin. For the next few weeks I'll enjoy the slow down as best I can. Before I know it I'll be planning for the Survivor Lock-in.

Weight Loss and Helix

2009-02-16T08:08:00.002-06:00

So since April of 08 I have lost 83lbs. Its been pretty easy making the right food decisions. Kirsten has an occasional craving. I usually just ignore her when she starts talking bad food. She's lost about 70lbs. She's close to her goal but I have quite a longer journey. I need to drop about 140 more. It will take awhile but at least I know I'm doing the right way. No surgery, or crazy diets just eating properly and exercising 5 times a week. I ran around at Helix last night for about an hour. I remember when I did that and couldn't move the next day. Now I just feel great.

"You Hear What You Want To Hear"

2009-02-11T14:14:00.003-06:00

Let me begin this blog post by saying I'm very upset. I will get into what has made this way in a moment. But first I must say that I'm odd and quite a difficult person to live with. I know this and my family knows it all too well. With that said what I'm about to share is coming from my skewed and distorted point of view.

Today the youth group will be having MYOP, make your own pizza night. I get ingredients that are cheap and often not the best for someone who is counting calories and watching his sodium intake. At times I choose not to have dinner with the group because I just shouldn't eat what they are having. Tonight I planned everything out so that I could eat with the kids. I logged all my food intake for the day in advance so that I knew where my numbers would fall. The computer program I use has the motto of going green. When everything is done properly I get all green bars indicating I did my part for becoming healthy and losing weight. Well, I planned out my dinner after breakfast and figured out what I could eat for lunch without messing up for the day. Messing up is indicated on this program as being in the red. Red is bad. I went to the kitchen to cook some chicken and make a salad. I say some chicken breast in the fridge thawing out and in my skewed mind decided they were OK to eat. Kirsten and I had recently been buying a new brand of chicken due to the fact that most frozen chicken is injected with sodium "flavor". I thought this was some of the natural or fresh chicken we had frozen. Well it was the frozen kind that has 717mg of sodium in every 4 oz. The fresh or natural only has about 30mg of sodium. It has 310 grams of chicken with my salad. I cooked the chicken and gave some to Kirsten and she not once mentioned it was the wrong frozen chicken. I sit down and eat. I finish my meal and Kirsten says you know those were the high sodium chicken breasts, right? I immediately go into panic mode. I screwed up my entire day. In my oddness I blamed her but it's my fault. I really messed up. So I can't eat anything with sodium for the rest of the day. I'm over on sodium for the day by 20%. That's with no dinner. I'm not sure how to fix this one. Why can't chicken just be chicken. Kirsten told me as she left the room that I don't listen to her. She said she had told me that chicken was the high sodium chicken. I didn't hear her. I guess I'll have a banana for dinner. No pizza for me.

Going Low Sodium

2009-02-05T10:23:00.001-06:00

I've been faithfully logging all of my food intake on Nutrimirror.com for several weeks now and the website has brought something to my attention. I'm not eating as healthy as I should be. My sodium is sky high. I've managed to eliminate the high sodium choices from my diet and yesterday I went all green. That means I met all the websites requirements for health and weightloss. Not only did I cut my sodium, I also cut 4.5 lbs. Sweet!

FHN Get Fit Challenge

2009-01-27T18:00:00.002-06:00

http://getfit.fhn.org/

Kirsten and I went for our first health screening. My Cholesterol was 155. The lady said that was very good. The other stuff just proved I was fat so nothing I couldn't tell them.