Christmas Thoughts

As I sit and listen to Mariah Carey's Christmas album (which is the best Christmas CD ever by the way), I am finishing work for the year. I love this time and am always excited about this time of the year as I get a nice break from work (save up vacation days) and also get to be around family and friends. This year, I am going to try not to eat as much and also not let it all pass by so fast. However, this year, I also have a new gift that is very special and I can't wait to see him grow up and hopefully love Christmas too. I am sad that we aren't traveling anywhere this year but very glad that we will still get to see everyone. I hope Brody will also enjoy his first Christmas....and I am sure as long as he gets to eat and sleep some, he will enjoy it. (Funny how babies aren't that different than the rest of us!) At any rate, I have new understanding this year as to how Mary and Joseph felt having a first born son and what a true gift He was. Being a parent puts a special twinkle in Christmas and there is a new excitement around our house that I hope only grows over the years to come. So while this post doesn't really have a theme and is pretty much just my rambling Christmas thoughts, its still pretty amazing to think of a baby that was once the size of Brody, came to the world to just save all mankind. So now that "Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child" is almost over, let me just wish everyone the Merriest of Christmases and as my mom says about her Christmas tree every year, I hope this ones the best so far!

New Post SuperBowl "The Office" Additions

Exclusive: Cloris Leachman To Join Jack Black & Jessica Alba on 'The Office'
By Korbi Ghosh

If you fell in love with Cloris Leachman on the dance floor this Fall or when she grabbed Uncle Jesse's behind at the Bob Saget roast (or, like me, when she replaced Edna Garrett on The Facts of Life), you'll be happy to hear that sources tell me exclusively, Leachman is the latest big name star to sign on for The Office's post Super Bowl episode. EW's Michael Ausiello was the first to report that Jack Black and Jessica Alba are also on board.

My mole says Leachman, Black and Alba are shooting their guest spots right now. However, longtime fans should not fret about the stunt casting corrupting the usual Dunder-Mifflin fun. The stars will not actually appear in the office, but rather "on-screen" in a Hollywood film that our D-M friends are watching.

Though there have been reports that a fourth "name" will be added to the mix, word is, the deal for the actor in mind did not close, therefore it'll just be Cloris, Jack and Jess.

New Music Thursday: 6 Year Old Talent

We are going to start playing Brody classical music tonight!

Why Men Shouldn't Take Phone Messages

Thanks Grat!

State Quarters Finished

In honor of the 10 year State Quarter project being completed by the U.S. Treasury, I wanted to post some pictures of my favorite state quarters. The state slogans sure have changed over the years. (Warning: PG-13!!!)

New Music Thursday: Christmas Season

I know that this song has already been floating around radio and been circulating over the past few weeks but I still wanted to blog about it because I think it will quickly become a Christmas classic. Faith Hill has released her first full length Christmas album and the final song is called A Baby Changes Everything. This song written by the same team that brought you Live Like You Were Dying is phenomenal. Craig Wiseman and Tim Nichols have found a way to take the meaning of a song and twist it again to mean something else during the song. It has a fantastic story and majestic underscore that will give you chills. If there is anything not perfect about this song it would be the mixing but that is overlooked because of the quality of song it is. Christmas songs never get recognized at award shows but this could be a first. See what you think.

Also, shout outs to Lady Antebellum for grabbing a Grammy nomination for New Artist of the Year! Only a few country artists in history have achieved this nomination and Lady A definitely deserves the nod.

This Dog is Not Going to Heaven

New Music Thursday: Best of Idol

Some of the best American Idol contestants have released new music...two of my favs specifically. David Cook's self titled debut album dropped recently and is reminiscent of Nickelback, Coldplay, and others. For that reason, he sometimes get lost in unoriginality but its still good music that is fun to listen to. Melinda Doolittle has also released a new single called It's Your Love. While this song will get virtually NO airplay on radio, it is articstically beautiful and Melinda has just the voice to do it justice.

The 42nd Annual CMA Awards

When you watch as many awards shows as I do, you start to get into predicting winners. So, not that anyone out there cares near as much about this stuff as I do, nevertheless, here are my predictions for tonight's big reveal.

Entertainer of the Year
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Sugarland
Keith Urban

Please let people be tired of giving this award to Kenny Chesney! He has won it 3 times already! Brad should be getting it tonight but when he wins in the Male Vocalist category, that could kill his chances at Entertainer which will make Kenny a 4 time winner.

Female Vocalist of the Year
Alison Krauss
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Carrie should be the 3 time winner here but with a humongous year, bright personality, and sophomore album released yesterday, Taylor Swift could surprise everyone!

Male Vocalist of the Year
Kenny Chesney
Alan Jackson
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Keith Urban

Brad will win and should win. No surprises here.

New Artist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Rodney Atkins
Lady Antebellum
James Otto
Kellie Pickler

Tough competition here but considering Pickler, Atkins, and Aldean have all been nominated for this award before, don't look for them to win. Look for Lady A to give an emotional acceptance speech.

Vocal Group of the Year
Eagles
Emerson Drive
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts

Duh.........RF.

Vocal Duo of the Year
Big & Rich
Brooks & Dunn
Montgomery Gentry
Sugarland
The Wreckers

I am not even sure how The Wreckers got nominated here when they aren't even together anymore. Nevertheless, who would have ever thought that the toughest category of the year would come from Vocal Duo?!?!?! Sugarland is nominated for Entertainer (how'd that happen?) so I give them the edge here.

Single of the Year
(Award goes to Artist and Producer)
"Don’t Blink" - Kenny Chesney
"Gunpowder & Lead" - Miranda Lambert
"I Saw God Today" - George Strait
"Stay" - Sugarland
"You’re Gonna Miss This" - Trace Adkins

"Stay" won this category at the ACMs so it definitely has some momentum. But the CMA loves to give this award to George Strait and "ISGT" is definitely one of his best over his 30+ year career. I say this awards goes "Strait" to George.

Album of the Year
Carnival Ride - Carrie Underwood
Cowboy Town - Brooks & Dunn
Good Time - Alan Jackson
Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates - Kenny Chesney
Troubadour - George Strait

I am not real sure how Brad Paisley's album didn't get nominated here as it should have WON this category. Since it is out, look for Troubadour or Carnival Ride to win. It depends on whether voters go old school or not. The vote could be split and Chesney could take it, but that is unlikely. I could definitely miss this category but I'll give the edge to Troubadour.

Song of the Year
“Good Time” - Alan Jackson
“I Saw God Today” - George Strait
“Letter To Me” - Brad Paisley
“Stay” - Jennifer Nettles
“You’re Gonna Miss This” - Ashley Gorley/Lee Thomas Miller

"Letter to Me" is by far the best song here. But "ISGT" could be rewarded here instead of in the single category. But I have to believe that the single is better than the song composition and give the edge here to "LTM". I told Jess back in the spring that "LTM" should win this category. Let's see if my 6 month old prediction holds up.

Musical Event of the Year
Josh Turner featuring Trisha Yearwood - “Another Try”
Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney - “Every Other Weekend”
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - “Gone Gone Gone”
Sugarland featuring Little Big Town and Jake Owen - “Life In A Northern Town”
Kenny Chesney (duet with George Strait) - “Shiftwork”

This award is gone gone gone to Alison Kraus and Robert Plant. Who would have ever thought Robert Plant would win a CMA award????

Music Video of the Year
“Don’t Blink” Kenny Chesney Directed by Shaun Silva
“Good Time” Alan Jackson Directed by Trey Fanjoy
“Stay” Sugarland Directed by Shaun Silva
“Waitin’ On A Woman” Brad Paisley featuring Andy Griffith Directed by Jim Shea & Peter Tilden
“You’re Gonna Miss This” Trace Adkins Directed by Peter Zavadil

Stay should win here. The simplicity and raw emotion that this video invoked was visually stunning and redefined video production.

Musician of the Year
Jerry Douglas – Dobro
Paul Franklin – Steel Guitar
Dann Huff – Guitar
Brent Mason – Guitar
Mac McAnally – Guitar

I have no idea. Maybe Dann Huff just out of respect for Keith Urban not winning anything tonight.

Tune in tonight at 8/7 CST on ABC to see who wins. If you don't care about the awards, the just tune in to see Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman presenting. That should definitely be a highlight of the evening!

Election Day: Hu are you going to Vote for?

New Music Thursday: Fun Music

Newcomer Eric Hutchinson has had a song out for a couple months that I did not know about until the other day. I know it isn't exactly "new music" as it has been out for a while, but I loved the song and wanted to make sure I blogged about it. Rock and Roll is fresh, light, and would be a great summer song (too bad its almost Halloween). Nevertheless, it is fun and very entertaining.

I love Jon McLaughlin. I think he is so amazingly talented and better than Jon Mayer any day. His first release, Indiana, was fantastic and it is still in our car and we listen to it all the time. Then he followed that up with an Oscar nominated song "So Close" from Enchanted. Now, his sophomoric release, OK Now, is equally fantastic and I am so glad to hear new stuff from him. You Can Never Go Back is 70s type disco feel song that ironically chants that we can never go back to the past. Its catchy, fun, and a foot-patting good time! Listen and see if you don't feel the same way.

Election 2008

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Dharmageddon!

Can't wait until February!


There are a couple things to point out here:
At :39, does anyone else see "Dharma Initiative" flash across the screen?
At :46, Locke is holding a compass. Remember when that compass was one of the things that Alpert asked 8 year old Locke if it was his? Spooky!
At :49, Hurley has a gun!!!! Yee haw!!!
At 1:00, Juliet and Sawyer have ended up becoming the leaders of the remaining survivors simply by accident. That should make for an interesting storyline.
At 1:07, Ben says "Thank God for second chances." What he really means is, "Thank God I have a second chance to get revenge on Widmore by killing his daughter." Look for Ben's and Penny's paths to ultimately cross in the season 5 finale.

February people. You might want to go ahead and turn off your phones now just so you aren't bothered during the episode!

Some Pics for the Weekend

New Music Thursday: Not for Long

I am dedicating today's new music to my beautiful wife Jess. Brody is now almost 5 weeks old and she is really persevering through this time of no sleep, constant crying, and continuous feedings. She is such a trooper and doing better than anyone would expect someone in her position to do. I am so proud of her. So for her today, I offer Darius Rucker's new single It Won't Be Like This For Long. Jess, I hope it encourages you and offers hope when the long nights seem to become a little too long. I love you!

A Fantastic Lady

I remember the summers I spent with my grandmother--how she would take us to this museum for kids. I remember how we would drag her to her pool everyday and spend hours there. I remember her and I watching and loving The Golden Girls every Saturday night. I remember spilling grape juice on my white pants in church and Mamaw getting the stain out. I remember playing cards and Mamaw always saying, "Take a chance, Columbus did." I remember stopping at Hardee's with just Mamaw and me on the way to Myrtle Beach when I was 18 and for the first time feeling grown-up. I remember Mamaw making the world's best chicken and dumplings. I remember taking my grandmother as a "Single Person Over 21" to be a checklist item on a Scavenger Hunt on the cruise she sent my family on. I remember laughing and dancing with her to "Tennessee Waltz" at my wedding. I remember crying with her and listening to her stories when her daughter passed away. I remember babysitting my cousin Collin with her which was the first time I had ever been around a baby. I remember her teaching crafts to people 20 years her junior. I remember Mamaw and Jess combing through photo albums for what seemed like hours. I remember her delighted reaction to hearing the news that we were pregnant and then hearing a more excited reaction of congratulations when Brody was born. I remember a lady that could hardly ever spell my name correctly. I remember playing in her walk-in closet as a kid and thinking that it was the most hidden place on earth. I remember how much my grandmother loved her family and only wanted the best for them. I remember a woman that loved and trusted God. I remember a fantastic lady!

It was the Best of Times, It was the Worst of Times

Saturday was one of the best days. I went to my friend Angela's wedding and it was absolutely so much fun. I saw friends I hadn't seen in 4-6 years. It was like we never left college. We danced, drank, told stories, reminisced and most of all, laughed. It was fantastic. Here is a video of when Angela and her new husband Jamie came in to the reception.



So you can imagine the high I was on when the world around me seemed to collapse on Sunday night when my mom called and told me that my grandmother had passed away. She lived a long full life and I am grateful for the time I got to spend with her. I don't wish that she were still here with us. I am glad that she is home, in no pain, and with her daughter and husband who she hasn't seen in almost 40 years. The only thing I am sad about is that she didn't get to meet Brody. But that is a selfish desire and its not like they won't meet. They will meet one day. But instead of it being 3 months until they met, it will be more like 80 years. That will be a good day and I hope I am there to introduce them!

New Music Thursday: A Tale of Two Women

Today's new music comes from two inspiring women who are really at the top of their craft. Alcia Keys has a new duet with Jack White called Another Way to Die. It is the new theme song from the upcoming James Bond film, Quantum of Solace. It is very edgy and very fresh. I have never heard metal and rythm and blues mixed like this. It's definitely different, but in a good way. The second new song comes from country vocal powerhouse, Jamie O'Neal. Jess loves her and always tells people how she ran into her in the doctor's office. Nevertheless, she comes back on an independent label and proclaims her sultriness with Like A Woman. This song is a cry from the heart of every female and there is no one that can do cry-singing like Jamie can. (See God Don't Make Mistakes) It is a very good comeback and will hopefully do well in radio.

Cheers to two of the industry's best.

Rainy Day

It's raining in Nashville and it seems that life is just raining everywhere. My family is getting little sleepas Brody doesn't want to cooperate with us very much, my grandmother is in the hospital with a severe illness that will more than likely take her life hopefully later rather than sooner, the country has to choose a leader between Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee in less than a month, and the rain today only symbolizes the cloudiness of life right now. However, on days like this, when things are blue, I am remember the two basic points that ignite my existence: Jesus is still in charge and I'm still saved. So things aren't going my way right now...it's still a good day!

Crazy Quizzes

I could survive for 60 seconds chained to a bunk bed with a velociraptor

Why is Everybody Always Hatin' on me?

There are some things that have really gotten on my nerves this week. And I need to let it out. So here are some things that I've been hating this week.

1. Eye Infections - I have had this eye infection off and on for 5 months. I am done with it. We have got to figure out what is going on!

2. Cracker Barrel - yes, there pancakes are good but apparently this is the only restaurant that anyone knows to go to. I am so through with this place. I am not going back at least until next year! And that is only if someone drags me there. I would be fine to never go back in my life!

3. Post-Debate Analysis - Everyone always claims that their candidate won the debate and every media outlet in the world is seeking some professional's opinion when the professional's agenda is only to further their candidate's hopes for office. And while we're at it, please spare me the post-debate focus groups where the last 20 people who are too stupid to have made up their mind by this point are corralled together, have a microphone shoved in their face and asked "what do you think?" and then we get their answer back, "he was a little mean." Lah!

So instead of just ranting and raving, let me also give you some of the things that I am lovin' this week.

1. It's Friday!

2. The new season of Heroes. Finally this show has morphed into what it should have been all along!

3. Team Hoyt. I saw Dick speak at a conference yesterday and it is truly amazing what the human body and spirit will do ... amazing and inspiring!

New Music Thursday: Sara Buxton

Sara Buxton is seriously one of the best Nashville has to offer. Her debut album got crushed a couple years ago by Christmas songs a flurry on the radio. She wasn't given a fair shot with that album and my friend at Lyric Street says that the whole label is more behind her than any other artist they have. Here is Stupid Boy writer's latest single called Space. This is a love it or hate it song. So it will not surprise me at all when half of you out there listen to it and say, "What?!?! I don't get it!" But the other half will have it on their iPods before the end of the day! I hope you enjoy it!

TPC Live Album Recording

We Found Popeye's Mom!

New Music Thursday: 90s Favorites

This week, Darius Rucker became the first artist to reach #1 on the pop charts to then cross over and reach #1 on the country charts in more than 20 years. So in celebrating his success, I thought I would blog about some other 90s voices that are back in action. Randy Travis has released a new song called Dig Two Graves. As you can imagine, its a real feel-good song. Actually, its not bad and sort of sweet. But since the low-baritone-country-singer torch has been passed to Josh Turner, my thoughts are that this song probably won't go anywhere significant. 90s pop crooner Kenny Loggins thought he would follow in Rucker's footsteps and so he has released a country song. How About Now is a strong classic Loggins sound. But I don't know if he has enough umph to successfully catapult this song up the charts. Keith Urban could have a hit with this song. Kenny Loggins??? We'll see. The one 90s favorite that I am excited to see back in action and has the strongest chance to rocket up the charts is Brandy with Right Here (Departed). Brandy has really updated her sound for the new millennium and it is very consistent to the fresh music heard today. A strong message, a vibrant beat, and nice gal give this song the best shot at #1. Bu as always, time will tell.

Broken

Jesus calls us to live out of a desolate place becuase it is there we realize our dependency on him. The more we realize how inept we truly are, the more we realize our need for the Savior. And when we truly realize how amazing and loving Papa is, we realize we truly are broken. Living out of this broken place then starts a new walk with our Father.

Lifehouse has a great new song and video out called Broken. (The video was even directed by Keifer Sutherland!) Listen to the song and read the lyrics below. Striving to be broken isn't hard. Remembering we're broken is.

Broken by Lifehouse



The broken clock is a comfort, it helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow from stealing all my time
I am here still waiting though i still have my doubts
I am damaged at best, like you've already figured out

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain there is healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on
I'm barely holdin' on to you

The broken locks were a warning you got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded, I'm an open book instead
I still see your reflection inside of my eyes
That are looking for a purpose, they're still looking for life

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
with a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain there is healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on
I'm barely holdin' on to you

I'm hangin' on another day
Just to see what you will throw my way
And I'm hanging on to the words you say
You said that I will be ok

The broken lights on the freeway left me here alone
I may have lost my way now, haven't forgotten my way home

Missing Dad

Since I went back to work yesterday, Brody wanted to take some pictures and send them to me. Wasn't that nice of him? Quite the little photographer too!

New Firsts

Brody has been having some "firsts" this week including his first bath, first bottle, first time in the bassinet, etc. Take a look and let us know what you think.

Leaving the Hospital

Hospital Pictures

Brody doing his signature move, Hands by the Ear!


Bringing sexy back


In Mom's arms

Picture

Katie Moore, Creative Kaite as I affectionately call her, came by to visit today along with some other of Jess' co-workers and friends. Katie accidentally left something in our room when she left. Can you guess what it is??? Hint: It's not the pillow.

Lullaby

Before, I post, there has been some confusion as to Brody's full name and the spelling. His full name is Brody Rayf Chambers. Good....glad we go that cleared up.

Last night, really really late, they let me hit the lullaby button that plays a lullaby all over the hospital to announce that Brody had arrived. A nurse videotaped it for me. As you can see, once I hit the button, I don't know what to do! So I am just hanging out looking silly. But here it is for your enjoyment!

Baby Chambers has Arrived!

5:50

5:10

3:03

1:08

Jess is dilated to 5cm and 80% effaced. She is having some tough contractions but is trooping through.

11:05

9:25

In case of emergency....

Don't worry everyone, I'm ready!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Countdown is ON!!!!!!!!!!

Usually I blog about entertainment, pop culture, or just cool/funny things that I find online. For the next week or so, this blog will totally be dedicated to the biggest life change of my life that is on its way. In less than a week, my son will be here and life as I know it won't be the same. So check this blog frequently, especially during labor as I will be posting many times per day to keep you updated with what's happening. Change is coming. The countdown is on! And I am super excited!

Fringe Benefits

Tonight on FOX is JJ Abrams much hyped new X-Files meets Battlestar Galatica drama call Fringe. I know that I will be on the fringe of my couch. Can't wait!

Game Show's Greatest

Yes, it's Monday. But be glad that you are working to better yourself so that you don't end up like these people.





And finally, making Nashville proud...

Spaghetti Cat

I love Joel McHale.

Breaking the Bar

Last night rolled out the season premiere of an old favorite and the series premiere of a much hyped one. "Prison Break" roared back onto TV with over the top twists and turns - Gretchen dead then not dead, Sara not dead, and Whistler really dead. Before you think this is a soap opera for men (OK, it is a soap opera for men), the fast pace of this premiere helped the viewer forget how over the top the getting the band back together idea was. After a downright boring season 3, producers have renergized Prison Break with an "Alias" or "24" feel that finds our favorite outlaws working together to take down the company. Ridiculous? Perhaps. Fun TV? Definitely. For a full review go here and watch the show next week at 7 CST on FOX.


Unfortunately, TNT's highly anticipated new series "Raising the Bar" dropped the bar completely. Steven Bochco has done far better in his day and this debut only confirms his best creative days to be behind him. This entire hour was extremely predictible and stars a cast that the viewer doesn't care about. The only bright light was an outstanding performance by Jane Kaszmerick as a ruthless judge that has been ruined by the system. But no matter how well she acts, the viewer still hates her character mostly because viewers want judges to be righteous truthful examples that always do what is right. Imagine a judge the polar opposite that is only out for selfish interests and doesn't want justice served. While this may be a reality in the world today, it doesn't sit well with viewers that want happy endings. Look for TNT to raise the curtain on "Raising the Bar" after about the 10th episode.

Time of Change

Well the Olympics are over and these are some of the best games I have ever seen. From Phelps miraculous fingernail finishes to both the American women and men 4 x 100 relay disqualifying to Matthew Mitcham from Austrailia upsetting the Chinese diving dynasty in the last diving competition to a May-Walsh-Dalhauser-Rogers foursome gold, these games were amazing and I am super sad to see them over.

Now, my son will soon be here and it has become more real to me than ever. Mostly because during this whole time of pregnancy, I have always thought, well, we still have a while because we still have the Olympics to come. But now they are over and we are doing a 30 day countdown. To add even more emphasis, our church is doing a 30 day countdown in a new series that will culminate 2 days before we are due. There is a lot of change on the horizon. I am going to go rest now.

New Music Thursday

My friend over at Be the Fruit has a special column every Thursday and calls it Idolatry Thursday. I drew some inspiration from him and threw in some of my own superficiality and thought I would create New Music Thursday. This is the first installment and hopefully my little post will help expose my readers to all sorts of musical art that is alive and inspiring or at least just cool.

Miranda Lambert's latest More Like Her is this week's suggestion. It is a beautiful, vulnerable display of a softer side of Miranda. Now, I know some people will not like this song because she is not threatening bodily harm against anyone in this song. However, give it a listen and see if it doesn't just sound very real.

Life's Moments

Life was made for these moments. If you don't know what I am talking about, go here and watch. It is the single best finish I have ever seen in any Olypics. This race will be up there with Mary Lou, Keri Strugg, Paul Hamm and the 1992 Dream Team. Sports, TV, and real life drama does not get any better than this!

The Little Book That Could

It did it. After being released in spring 2007, William P. Young's The Shack made it all the way to the top of the New York Times Bestsellers List. It is truly and amazing book and revolutionary to the way we view Christ. If you are one of the 14 people on the planet that hasn't read this book yet, GO GET IT! I don't usually recommend books because they take so long to read. It's not like a movie where if you hate it, you have only lost 2 hours of your life. With a book, you could potentially lose weeks! But I am recommending this one and will tell you that you NEED to read this book. Its fantastic. And apparently the rest of the country thinks so too.

The Big Announcement

OK, so I had to title this blog "The Big Announcement" because if I had titled it "Emmy Nominations" you probably wouldn't have read it. So now that I have your attention, the nominations for the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards were announced this morning. For a complete listing of all the nominees, go here. However, I do want to make a few quick observations as this stuff is real exciting to me.

- Damages and Mad Men made history this year as the first basic cable series to be nominated for Oustanding Drama Series. Premium cable show shave been nominated before but not basicc shows.

- If Tony Shalhoub wins Lead Actor in a Comedy Series again this year for Monk, I may lose all faith in the academy. Alec Baldwin is exceptional in 30 Rock and should kill the competition.

- Michael C. Hall in Dexter for Lead Actor in a Drama Series! Yea! He has been overlooked the past 2 years and it is good to see him here.

- I am so excited to see 12 nominations for Pushing Daisies including a nod for everybody's desired kid sister, Kristin Chenoworth for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.

- Another surprise nod for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Amy Poehler in Saturday Night Live. She has long been the best star on that show (currently struggling) but I don't remember the last time a performer on SNL got nominated in a major acting category. Has it ever happened? I will have to check the history books.

- Last year, the song everyone was an eye-opener to be nominated in the Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics was JT's "D*** in a Box". This year, the academy's choice is Sarah Silverman's "I'm F***ing Matt Damon". (It is pretty funny.)

- 30 Rock owns 4 of the 5 nominations in the Guest Actor category. Nominations couldn't have been more earned.

- Thank goodness Lost got nominated for Best Drama. It had its best year ever! Not recognizing this would have been a crime against humanity!

- The biggest battle of the night has to be in the Outstanding Children's program category. "WHAT?" you may ask. Well its a clash of the pre-teen titans, Hannah Montana vs. High School Musical 2. Pick your sides people.

- Shout out to Michelle who loves Deadliest Catch, which was nominated in the Outstanding Nonfiction Series category.

- Intervention got nominated in the Outstanding Reality Show category! This is one of the most riveting, glue-you-to-your-seat shows on cable. Watch it and you'll see!

- If 30 Rock's guest star nominations were the most deserved, then the 2nd most deserved nomination is for The Office whose episode The Dinner Party was nominated for Oustanding Writing in a Comedy Series and is by far the most uncomfortable single episode of any show....ever!

- My personal disappointments: Maura Tierney in ER not nominated. Last year's winner for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series Jamie Pressly was not nominated.

- Other surprises: Desperate Housewives was completely shut out in the main categories. Grey's Anatomy shut out except for 2 supporting actress nods. Critically adored Gossip Girl was completely shut out.

I am sure I will be blogging some more about the emmys closer to awards time. But for now, think about the nominations and let me know if you have any thoughts.

Hopkins Friend

There is this new documentary on ABC called Hopkins. Jess and I watched it the night it premiered and I even talked to jack about it. The show is a really compelling documentary featuring the medical drama that takes place in Johns Hopkins Medical Center. The show also illustrates the stress that medical procedures take on both the patients and the doctors. The third episode last week even featured a heart transplant. But the real shock for me was seeing that one of the doctors they are following around is Ann Czarnik, a friend of mine that I graduated high school with. I was really surprised and shocked to see her on there. Furthermore, she is one of the lead doctors in the documentary. It is really crazy knowing that someone I grew up with and literally went to kindergarten with is now one of the stars on a show on ABC. It's kinda cool. Mom said that it is all the talk in Bluefield, where I am from. And while I think it is cool, I know that it has lost some of its surrealness (is that a word?) because of the town I live in. In Nashville, it is nothing to see world famous stars. Last night, we saw a commercial for Hopkins and it advertised what Ann will be up to this week. Then the next commercial was for Hannah Montana and her new line of whatever. So one commercial has a friend from grade school and the next has one of the largest stars in the world, who goes to my church. It's fun, but being star-struck definitely loses its wide-eyed appeal when you live in this town. Nevertheless, I want to be sure to give Ann a big kudos and shout out. So tune in to Hopkins, this Thursday night at 9PM CST on ABC. After not seeing Ann for about 6-7 years, it is refreshing to see she hasn't changed....at all!

Independence Day Music

I thought it might be fun to give some suggestions on some new summer fun music that you might like to enjoy. Jason Mraz is back and has a great new tune called "I'm Yours". It's one of those songs that you just want to listen to as you hang your arm out the window driving down a curvey country road on a hot summer afternoon. I know there has been some mixed feelings on whether Jewel should have crossed over to country or not but her latest single "I Do" is fantastic and harkens back to the sounds of Crystal Gayle and Roseanne Cash. Staying in the ultra country category, check out Lee Ann Womack's new song "Last Call" which is the best thing she has had since "I May Hate Myself in the Morning". Finally, if country isn't quite what you're looking for this weekend, try some songful stylings of newcomer Delta Goodrem whose song "In This Life" shows her vocal power and range and all around radiates positive niceness. But no matter what you're listening to, enjoy your 4th and your freedom to choose whatever song you want.

Quote of the Day

I found this quote from Maya Angelou. I hope it encourages you today!

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin."
I'm whispering "I was lost," Now I'm found and forgiven.

When I say..."I am a Christian" I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need CHRIST to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need HIS strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are far too visible but, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I still feel the sting of pain,
I have my share of heartaches So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner who received God's good grace, somehow.
~Maya Angelou~

The Next Superstar

I can't believe I just discovered this girl and she has been gaining wide spread attention for the past six months! This baby stuff must have me preoccupied! Nevertheless, I wanted to show you a video of Charice Pempengco, a 15 year old girl from the Phillipines that will soon be the next Whitney, Celine, or Mariah and maybe even bigger and better. This is a clip of her appearing on Ellen during her first trip to the states. She is un-flippin-believable! See for yourself!

Oscar's New Rule

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has invoked a new rule regarding the Best Original Song category at the Academy Awards. Going forward, a motion picture will be limited to only being nominated for 2 songs in the category. The past couple of years, there have been 3 songs in the category all from one motion picture. In 2006, it was Dreamgirls that had three songs nominated and in 2007 it was Enchanted. Both years however, the oscar went to a song from neither of these movies (2006 was Melissa Etheridge's "I Need to Wake Up" from An Inconvenient Truth even though "Listen" was the clear frontrunner and 2007 went to "Falling Slowly" from Once). So does this new rule keep the academy from splitting the vote and thus properly reward the song most deserving? That's what they're hoping for. But at the same time, it seems limiting to musicals and heavy soundtracked movies that churn out melodic masterpeices. This is America. If one movie has the five best songs of the year, I say let them all be nominated. When we limit what can be nominated, we possibly remove or squelch art. And that is by far worse than a split vote.

Fat Freedom

This story blew me away. I am so glad that America is a free country where we can get fat if we want to. Don't hear me incorrectly; I think we should provide incentives for people to take care of their bodies and promote healthy living in an effort to reduce medical costs. But making it mandatory??? That infringes upon our basic rights as humans (not to mention some people's DNA). Apparently Japan does not think so. Check this article out and let me know what you think.

Post Father's Day Observations

Yesterday was Father's Day and Jess constantly reminded me that there is something living inside of her and assured me that I am the father. So, it only made good sense that I chose to celebrate the day with steaks on the grill, a shooting and killing movie, and a few episodes of Seinfeld. I have been thinking a lot over the weekend about various thoughts all with no theme between them. So I thought I would just list my thoughts here and hopefully it will provoke some thoughts of your own.

I think it is interesting how on Mother's Day we all have to go do something for Mom and we plan some event but on Father's Day, Dad just wants to be left alone in front of the TV.

My sweet wife knows me better than anyone and knows just what kind of gifts I like...practical! I am so incredibly blessed to be loved by her.

I still can't get over the fact that Kanye West preformed at Bonaroo. What's more is that he didn't take the stage until 4:25AM Saturday night/Sunday morning.

I always admired Tim Russert's ability to nail down an answer from someone trying to dodge the question. Now I admire him much more for his orientation and devotion to his family and faith.

The Big One: No matter how many books I read or how much prep work I do, when my son is born, I am not going to have a clue what I am doing...and I hope my inabilities as his dad will not inhibit his development of the man God wants him to be. I welcome the advice from all you other fathers out there but the way I figure it, the only way I know to not screw him up too badly is to keep my own eyes on Jesus and make Him the goal. Not personal wholeness, not personal desires, not desired friendships, not dream achievement...but Christ himself must be my goal in raising my child. One of my favorite quotes about parenting is from an author who said parenting is like building a skyscraper. God is in charge of building the massive structure just the way He wants it. He designs it. He creates it. He builds it. Parents are the scaffolding around the building that guide it in its growth to help it stand and be built the way the Architect designed it.

Loveshack's Back!

My friend Bill over at Be The Fruit told me recently that he was going to blog about entertainment being used as an idol above God. He said he was inspired to do this because of all my entertainment posts. Well, he did write that blog yesterday and I thought that I would use today's blog to give him further inspiration to write a Part II for next week!

Can you belive it??? The B-52s are back! The band is back fifteen years after their hit Loveshack played in every dance hall from swanky European discotechs to rural high school gymnasiums. Their new song... Funplex. It has all the same funky nostalgia that Loveshack has only updated with today's technology and sounds. Go check it out! It will be on your iPod all summer long. I know it will be on mine!

Fox Premiere Dates

FOX released their scheduled premier dates for their fall season. Below is a full synopsis. The only interesting parts to me are the 2 hour season premiere of Prison Break (please make season 4 better than 3!) and the new JJ Abrams show Fringe. It looks fantastic. I can't wait to watch that. hope your favorite FOX shows are back on a good night for you!

Monday, Sept. 1
8:00-10:00 PM "Prison Break" (2-Hour Season Premiere)


Wednesday, Sept. 3
8:00-10:00 PM "Bones" (2-Hour Season Premiere)


Thursday, Sept. 4
8:00-10:00 PM "The Moment of Truth" (2-Hour Season Premiere)


Friday, Sept. 5
8:00-10:00 PM "Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?" (2-Hour Season Premiere)


Saturday, Sept. 6
8:00-8:30 PM "COPS"(Season Premiere)
8:30-9:00 PM "COPS" (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM "America's Most Wanted: America Fights Back" (Season Premiere)


Monday, Sept. 8
8:00-9:00 PM "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles"(Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM "Prison Break" (Time Period Premiere)


Tuesday, Sept. 9
8:00-10:00 PM "Fringe" (2-Hour Series Premiere)


Wednesday, Sept. 10
8:00-9:00 PM "Bones" (Time Period Premiere)
9:00-9:30 PM "'Til Death" (Season Premiere)
9:30-10:00 PM "Do Not Disturb" (Series Premiere)


Thursday, Sept. 11
8:00-9:00 PM "The Moment of Truth" (Time Period Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM "Kitchen Nightmares" (Season Premiere)


Friday, Sept. 12
8:00-9:00 PM "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" (Time Period Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM "Don't Forget the Lyrics!" (Season Premiere)


Saturday, Sept. 13
11:00 PM-Midnight "MADtv"(Season Premiere)
Midnight-12:30 AM "Talk Show With Spike Feresten" (Season Premiere)


Tuesday, Sept. 16
8:00-9:00 PM "House"(Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM "Fringe" (Time Period Premiere)


Sunday, Sept. 28
8:00-8:30 PM " The Simpsons" (Season Premiere)
8:30-9:00 PM "King of the Hill" (Season Premiere)
9:00-9:30 PM "Family Guy" (Season Premiere)
9:30-10:00 PM "American Dad" (Season Premiere)

I'm Excited

I'm Excited to go to Florida tomorrow on vacation.
I'm Excited that I am having a boy!
I'm Excited that David Cook won American Idol.
I'm Excited that I discovered Justin Nozuka's latest album (Listen to "After Tonight"--He is also going to be at Mercy Lounge on June 4th.)
I'm Excited for the LOST finale next week.
I'm Excited that friends prayers are being answered.

But I am deeply saddened today for Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman whose 5 year old daughter was tragically killed yesterday in an auto accident. The details of the story are here. Last night Jess and I were talking with Mike and Michelle about how sometimes we think that only bad parents let bad things happen to their kids and how stupid that is of us because bad things could really happen to any child at anytime. We all realized how fragile life was. Then only about an hour later we got the news of the Chapman's daughter. Having a child on the way only makes me more aware of the fragility of life. I know God will use this to bring them to a deeper understanding of Him and use this tragedy for His ultimate good. So while this horrid time of sadness and mourning looms, if there is one hope that the family can have, it is that the love of the Father will transcend time and emotion and the family will all be reunited in eternity....and I'm excited for that.

ACMs

Sunday night is the 43rd Academy of Country Music Awards. This is usually a pretty exciting awards show with great performances. Last year, we saw Sugarland perform on a conveyor belt, Shania came out of hiding, and Tim McGraw introduced the world to "If You're Reading This." However, this year, the academy hs gone astray....way astray.

First the good: Reba is back and hosting for an unprecedented 10th time! We all know how I love her and so I am very glad that she will be back (with Jerry House's jokes none the less). But the academy really demeaned itself this year by allowing the fans to vote on Entertainer of the Year! What the crap!?!?!?!?!? You take a 43 year tradition where 42 top entertainers were recognized by industry peers and put that main category in the hands of the same people who think the best video ever made was Honky Tonk Badonkadonk?!?!?! This is not and should not be a fan voted awards show. We already have the CMT Awards which are fan voted. But the Academy really stooped to a new low to gain ratings this year.

Think of it this way. What if Rascal Flatts or Brad Paisley actually win Entertainer this year. Neither of these acts have won previously and so it begs the question will it mean as much when it doesn't come from their peers, the people who know music the best? Sure, they will get up there and thank their fans and tell them that it is because of them they do what they do but that is all bull. They do the CMT Awards for the fans and CMA Fest for the fans...not the ACMs. It is the difference between the Academy Awards and the Peoples Choice Awards. Both are fine and each have their own place but the respect and dignity that comes with the Academy Awards far outweighs the PCAs. Unfortunaetly, the ACMs have crossed a line that is really sad and will be regretted when the history books are written.

Look for this year's winners to be Brad Paisley (Male Vocalist), Carrie Underwood (Female Vocalist), Rascal Flatts (Group Vocalists), Taylor Swift (Female Newcomer), Lady Antebellum (Group Newcomer). These are all no brainers and there really shouldn't be any surprises. The interesting categories this year are in the Song, Single, and Album of the Year where George Strait is not nominated. The most deserving....Stay by Sugarland. We will see if that little song with big emotion can bring home the gold. Kudos to Miranda Lambert for her Single and Album nods. As for Entertainer of the Year, your guess is as good as mine. I guess it really all depends on who all the little teeny boppers out there logon and vote for 5 million times. My guess then is that its Kenny Chesney again. It's ridiculous. I have to go because I'm starting to getting mad again.

On the Fringe

Fox released its upfront schedule today for the 2008-2009 tv season and the most exciting television show across any network has to be Fringe. Fringe is written and created by J.J. Abrams (Felicity, Alias, Lost) and Fox is wise to jump on the Abrams bandwagon. The 2 hour pilot is rumored to have a 10 million dollar budget! You know it will be explosive with that type of cash. Stars include Joshua Jackson, John Noble, and Lance Reddick. But the main star is unknown Anna Trov who is hoping that J.J. will do for her what he did for Keri Russell, Jennifer Garner, and Evangeline Lily. Below is a brief plot synopsis. Can't wait til Fall!

Fringe Written by J.J. Abrams, Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman
What It's About: When something disturbing, unexplainable and just a bit icky happens to the passengers on an international flight, FBI Agent Olivia Warren (Torv) begins an investigation that leads her to Dr. Walter Bishop (Noble), a renegade scientist whose unorthodox experiments into fringe phenomena led to arrests and eventually institutionalization. Warren can only get Bishop out with the help of his estranged son Peter (Jackson), a young man with a genius IQ, but questionable morals and motivation. The son isn't ready to reconcile with his father, the father isn't ready to be reintegrated into the outside world and Olivia isn't ready to serve as babysitter, but they form an unlikely team. How does the airplane tragedy relate to The Pattern, a spate of unexplained occurrences sweeping the world? And what does any of this have to do with the mysterious Prometheus Corporation, one of the world's most forward-thinking companies? And what do we make of Broyles (Reddick), the head of the Homeland Security's newly formed Fringe Division?

Scrubbing Back In

Evidently, some rumors are true. ABC announced its upfront presentation today which is their big reveal to the public of their 2008-2009 TV line-up. Only 5 new shows made the cut including picking up NBC's Scrubs. In my last blog, you may remember that we said good-bye to this clever comedy. ABC must have seen the light in how funny a show it is (or at least seen the high dollars signs from lucrative syndication deals). So welcome back Sacred Heart. You moved around NBC's network so long, it seems to only make sense that you move to a totally different network altogether.

For the rest of the new shows ABC has scheduled, including a peek at the new Ashton Kutcher produced traveling game show Opportunity Knocks, and the hyped up post-Grey's Anatomy timeslot drama Life on Mars, check out abc.com.

Stay tuned as CBS and FOX each announce their upfront schedules Wednesday and Thursday respectively. (NBC announced over a month ago.)

Scrubbing Out

Tonight is what could be the series finale of one of the greatest television comedies of all time. Scrubs entered into the TV realm with a little budget, a bad time slot, and no heavyweight stars (Zach who??) but by the 4th episode, something amazing started to emerge. Unlike ever before, Scrubs took the half-hour sitcom and turned it into a dramedy never before seen. In 30 minutes, Scrubs takes the viewers from laugh out loud funny to engulfment in a heartstrings pulling moment. From the writing, to the acting, to the guest star placement, Scrubs takes its place alongside the TV greats and could go into the history books tonight. There is much speculation (and probable truth) that Scrubs will move to ABC next year meaning that tonight may not be the last we will see of JD, Turk, Cox and the gang. But the way TV execs jump ships these days, one never knows. So just in case you don't come back....Thanks Scrubs for 7 great years! I hope life is good to you on the other side of the rainbow.

Surprises in Store

We received the first of many surprises today. We found out our little one is going to be a boy. Practically everyone, including Jess and I, thought it would be a girl. So the first of many surprises has set in. This thing is about to be a wild ride if surprises keep rolling in like this. Everything looked good and our son appears to be healthy. I can't post much about it because I am still somewhat in awe. Think of it like this: pretend God said you are either going to get all the money in the world or all the things in the world. You don't know which you are getting but both would be great and both are very different. Then God gives you one of them, let's choose all the money in the world. You now own all the money in the whole world and you can't believe that it is actually yours even though you knew you were receiving it or something equally great. You just can't believe it. That is how I am feeling right now. I know it doesn't make much sense but its the best analogy I can come up with.

Different Tomorrow

It's weird. Tomorrow I will be different. I will feel different. I will have information that will change the rest of my life tomorrow. I am in the present an unknowing soon to be father. Tomorrow I will be a more educated soon to be father. But not just a little educated. I will find out information that will change the course of my life and really all eternity. One of God's plans will be revealed tomorrow. It's weird feeling this way....but good.

Darwin Award Rejects

Since it is Friday, I thought I would post some fun videos to start your weekend off right. All these videos are titled "Darwin Award Rejects" so I thought it was appropriate to post these with Ben Stein's new documentary just released, "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed" which takes a look at intelligent design and Darwinism. Anyway, enjoy and have a great weekend.











And my favorite...

Superstar!

So American Idol's Irish import left the show last night in a somewhat surprising reveal....or was it? Carly Smithson sang "Superstar" (from the musical Jesus Christ Superstar) in Tuesday night's show. During the performance, Jess stated that she thought the lyrics were a bit sacreligious. I assured her that they weren't and in fact, they were just the opposite. The lyrics in fact point out many of our questions, doubts, and unbeliefs that we as Christian face everyday. The song is about us questioning God's actions. The song is about our curiosity to know what God has in store and a demand to know what that is. The song is about our lack of understanding and our blatant distrust as the soul looks at the Father and says, "What were you thinking!?!?!?!" Of course its wrong as it ultimately stems from a lack of trust in our Father, but nevertheless, the song is an honest portrayal of many of our daily spiritual walks.

Alas, though, Carly got voted off the island by a bachelor trying to lose weight (whoops, I'm getting my shows mixed up again). I wondered about the voting on this. Could it be that non-Christians didn't vote for her because they thought she was taking a religious stance that they didn't agree with? Could the Christian viewers have not voted for her because they thought the song was sacreligious and that she was making fun of God? This theory is just that...a theory, and we will never know the answer as FOX does not poll the demographics of its voters. However, in an effort to at least clear-up any doubt that this song is sacreligious, I have posted the lyrics below along with Carly's rendition. Listen to her sing it and read through the lyrics. Just see if this amazing performance doesn't convict your heart with its rousing yet haunting words.

Superstar
Everytime I look at you I don't understand
Why you let the things you do get so out of hand
You'd have managed better if you'd had it planned.
Why'd you choose such a backward time in such a strange land?

If you'd come today you would have reached the whole nation.
Israel in 4 BC had no mass communication.
Don't get me wrong now. Don't get me wrong. Don't get me wrong.
I only want to know now....

Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ
Who are you? What have you sacrificed?
Jesus Christ, Superstar
Do you think you're what they say you are?

Tell me what you think about your friends at the top.
Who'd you think besides yourself's the pick of the crop?
Buddha, was he where it's at is he where you are?
Could Muhammad move a mountain, or was that just PR?

Did you mean to die like that? Was that a mistake, or
Did you know your messy death would be a record breaker?
Don't you get me wrong...Don't get me wrong now. Don't get me wrong.
I only want to know.....

Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ
Who are you? What have you sacrificed?
Jesus Christ, Superstar
Do you think you're what they say you are?

Dove Awards 2008

Tonight is the biggest night in Christian music. Since my wife works in the industry and I am a fan, I thought I would run down some of the main categories in this year's Dove Awards and make some predictions. These predictions are of course based on months of logical scientific research conducted by third party unbiased consulting firms that calculated a prediction based on a 15th century philosopher's equation named Rambaldi. OR...its just a SWAG. Either way, here you go.

Song of the Year
-Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)
-Bring the Rain
-East to West
-Give you Glory
-How You Live
-I'm Not Who I Was
-In Better Hands
-Made To Love
-Tears of the Saints
-Undo

The way I see it, Tears of the Saints and Amazing Grace are going to go head to head on this one. But two questions loom here: Will the GMA give the BIG award to a young band straight out of the gate? or is writing one chorus to a century old song good enough to garner a Song of the Year title? GMA members are probably hard pressed to decide which question they answer "yes" to. If they go with neither, look for East to West to be the underdog and take it. However, my sentiments are that even though it was just a chorus, Chris Tomlin's emotional addition to Amazing Grace will best the competition.

Songwriter of the Year
-Mark Hall
-Brandon Heath
-Bernie Herms
-Leeland Mooring
-Cindy Morgan

Song of the Year and Songwriter of the Year winners tend to go together to the same artist (i.e., Chris Tomlin and How Great is Our God, Bart Millard and I Can Only Imagine, Mark Hall and Who Am I). But there is no way the GMA could nominate Tomlin for only writing a chorus in this category. So look for Mark Hall or Leeland Mooring to take this category and I am giving the slight edge to Leeland. But one thing is for sure, whoever wins this category has their chances skyrocket to win Song of the Year and upset Tomlin.

Male Vocalist of the Year
Chris Tomlin
Gerald Wolfe
Jon Foreman
Mark Hall
Mark Schultz
Marvin Sapp
tobyMac

Is it just me or is everyone rooting for toby here? Unfortunately, the GMA is not going to give a "vocalist" award to someone that doesn't sing a majority of a song. That brings us back to the Tomlin vs. Hall debate once more. Given that Hall has been nominated in all three categories so far, he gets the win here. But let me just say for the record, that group front men should NOT be allowed to be nominated for these individual vocalists categories. If they are part of a group, then they should only be able to be nominated with the group. PERIOD.

Female Vocalist of the Year
Amy Grant
Christy Nockels
Darlene Zschech
Krystal Meyers
Mandisa
Natalie Grant
Sandi Patty

Amy did release a greatest hits and jump labels for the first time in 30 years and Sandi had her own comeback party with a new album in 2007 too. But these stalwarts aren't big contenders this year. Christy Nockels retired last year so that may give her a boost. Mandisa didn't sell enough to win here. So look for the reigning queen to reign once more and Natalie should accept the prize for the 3rd year running (?) 4th year running (?) I can't keep track. But kudos to Krystal Meyers for getting a nomination here. Well deserved.

Group of the Year
Casting Crowns
David Crowder Band
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Hillsong United
Point Of Grace
Selah
The Clark Sisters

Crowder should win this category with one of the most electric albums of the year. But alas, the dude that was nominated in the Male Vocalist category will also win here only he has 7 other people standing beside him. Do you see how this isn't fair people?!?!?! OK, I am getting down of my soapbox now.

New Artist of the Year
33 Miles
Austins Bridge
Brandon Heath
DeWayne Woods
Group 1 Crew
Mandisa
Rush Of Fools

Rush Of Fools had the biggest hit of 2007 so that might send them the edge. However, I think Brandon Heath's songwriting abilities and cool, coffeehouse vibe gives him the edge here with the voters. After all, these are the same people that gave this award to The Afters...and where are they now? I think the GMA will take a year off from giving it to a band when they don't know if they will be around this time next year.

Producer of the Year
Bernie Herms
Ed Cash
Ian Eskelin
Israel Houghton
Nathan Nockels

Here is where Bernie gets his prize. Too many "artists" are competing for other categories he is nominated in. He wins here. Of course, 98.4273% of all artists work with Ed. He could be the darkhorse even though he has won for the past two years.

Artist of the Year
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
Natalie Grant
Point Of Grace
Skillet
The Clark Sisters
tobyMac

If toby has a chance in any of the big categories, its here. I mean, come on, there is truly not an "artist" listed here that can compete. Again, if everything starts going Mark Hall's way, look for C.C. to upset. But toby's Portable Sounds outsold everyone here and the GMA can't ignore that.

Well there you have it. If you don't have tickets, you can always watch the broadcast live on Gospel Music Channel tonight. Tune in to see just how wrong yours truly really is!

Christian the Lion

This is one of the best videos I have seen in a long time. It really doesn't help my affinity with lions but sure proves my point as to why I LOVE these big cats.

The following video synopsis is from youtube.

So these two people (still in the 70's evidently) raised this lion cub who they named Christian, and sadly he got too big for them to take care of so they decided to release him to live as a wild lion. Well, in this footage, a year has passed and it looks like Christian's adapted to living with a pride of lions when his old (70's like) friends come back to visit him. Watch closely and you can see the look of pure disbelief that dawns on his muzzle- it's awesome. ^_^ Next thing you know, we have a heart warming reunion. Not long after, members of Christian's pride approach and even they seem to accept Christian's human friends.

I think this video is such a wonderful picture of how God (the Lion and the Lamb) greets us whenever we come seeking Him. All we have to do is walk out into the wilderness and God shows up. Yes, its scary because we don't know what we will find or what reaction awaits us, but His gentle nature just propels Him to jump up on us and throw His big paws around our neck and give us every communication that simply says "It's so good to see you!"

I hope you enjoy and let me know what you think.

Latest Music

There are two songs that are quickly impressing me more and more every day. The first song is "No Air" by Jordan Sparks featuring Chris Brown. Besides two great singers, what makes this song so special is the onomatopoeia associated with the word "air." When the singers sing "air" the melody is so light and wispy that the air is almost palpable. It is a great example of how songs and feelings can interrelate. I fully expect this song to receive a nomination for Record of the Year at next year's Grammy Awards to be held in February 2009.

The second song is "4 Minutes" by Madonna featuring Justin Timberlake and Timbaland. Madonna has been impacting the music business (positively and negatively) for almost 25 years. Last month she was inducted into the Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame for her contributions and is now releasing her latest single. However, what makes this song so hot is Madonna's choices and not necessarily her vocal talent. Her decision to include JT and Timbaland on this record reinvented her music once again. JT is the strong standout on this song and Madonna sort of washes into the background. However, with all the accolades this song is receiving as well as how fast it is climbing the charts, this song should garner a Grammy nod for Madonna for Best Pop Female Performance next year.

At the least expect both of these songs to show up in the Best Pop Collaboration category when the Grammy nominees are announced later this year.

In Open Hands

Jack and Many Miller led an amazing Bible Study lesson yesterday. It was a great reminder of how we make agreements with the enemy and subtley allow him to destroy our lives and bring us further away from Papa. Rob Dublin said something that has really stuck with me. He talked about giving control over to God. Lots of peple think that that means you will have to go to Africa and become a missionary but the truth is that God will just use you in a way that he has already equipped you. Rob said that in the area where you need to ask God, "what does it mean to give you control of this area?", that is the area you need to give Him control over. Rob said it much better than I can but it really started me thinking.

God wants us to hold everything He has given us in open hands ("In Open Hands"...there is a good song title Nasvhille...I own 5% of the song though). Whether it is our family, our finances, our career, our hobbies, our possessions, our past, our future, or ourselves, He wants us to hold it all in our open hands. It brings back a point Rick White at The Peoples Church made a while back. He reiterated a point in the Bible that says everything under the sun is God's. EVERYTHING. This includes all the categories that I just listed. So it is best to think of ourselves not as owners but as managers, financial planners, day care workers, etc. Then the challenge will be come clear that we hold all of these things in open hands and never with a closed fist. It is more difficult on us is God has to pry open our hands but very easy for Him to handle His possessions if we are holding them in open hands. That is a lot easier said than done but I think that is our challenge and when we look at it from an eternal perspective, it becomes easier.