Proud Father

He is Here!!!

Logan Earl Hellums is Here

Kari, Landon and I are excited to welcome Logan Earl to the family. Logan was born at 8:11am weighing 7lbs and 5 oz and 19.5 inches long.

More details to come, so stay tuned.

Thanks for all your prayers. God Bless.

Headed to the OR

Kari is on her way to the OR.

On the way in at 4:44am we saw a falling star. We made great time and all is going well. Grammy, Big Momma and Aunt Martha are already here.

Please pray for Kari and Baby Hellums Number Two.

Stay tuned.

On the Way to Round Rock

Kari and I are traveling now to Scott & White Healthcare - Round Rock to have Baby Hellums Number Two. We got up this morning at 4am to get ready for the hour trip. We got on the road about 4:15am just to make sure we were checked in at 5:30am as scheduled.

Please keep us in your prayers as we travel these early morning roads and Kari mentally prepares for the spinal block to come. She is dreading the insertion of the large needle, but who wouldn't be; we both hate needles.

We are so excited about meeting Baby Hellums Number Two and look forward to sharing his arrival with you.

Stay tuned to Insert Title Here for the latest information on Baby Hellums Number Two. God Bless.

Happy Birthday, Kari and An Update

Happy Birthday, Kari.

Yesterday Landon had his annual checkup. After answering several questions about Landon's vocabulary and other skills, our doctor informed us that Landon is on a 16 month on skill level. He is completely clear of his ear infections and is getting two new teeth; one of the new teeth is a molar. He received two shots and had blood drawn and took all three needle pricks like a champ. The only time he cried was when he chewed the bandaid off his thumb and Kari took it out of his mouth.

After arriving 15 minutes late to Landon's appointment and being told we would have to wait to see the doctor, we told the office staff that we had another appointment for Baby Hellums Number Two shortly after. The office staff spoke we the doctor and we were in and out of Landon's doctor in record time.

At Kari's appointment we learned that she was a little over 2 cm dilated and half effaced. What does this all mean...Baby Hellums Number Two is getting ready to make his appearance. On the way home Kari started experiencing contractions and the thought of having him yesterday was on the front of our minds. We made several "just in case" phone calls and talked to our friends Rod and Dana about coming over in the middle of the night if she went into labor. After about two hours, the intense contractions subsided and the concern lowered.

It was a great day at the doctors. Only about 3 more days until we meet Baby Hellums Number Two. We are scheduled to arrive in Round Rock at 5:30 am; which means we will be leaving the camp at 4:15amish.

Thank you for all your prayers. God Bless.

Baby Hellums Number Two is Ready and Waiting!

It is hard to grasp that in approximately 4 days Baby Hellums Number Two will be making his grand entrance. Kari has started to experience infrequent contractions, is uncomfortable and ready for him to be delivered. The house is 97% prepared, but we could always use more diapers. With Landon, almost every time we went to the store we bought diapers. This trend has continued, but we still were buying for Landon not Baby Hellums Number Two.

Today we are going to Landon's one year checkup. Please pray his ear infections are all clear. Later this afternoon we are headed to Round Rock to see Kari's doctor one last time before Baby Hellums Number Two scheduled arrival, Monday, August 2nd. We are very excited about his arrival.

Stay tuned for the latest news about Landon and Baby Hellums Number Two @ Insert Title Here.

God bless.

My Utmost for His Highest Entry: July 27

"When Jesus drives something home to you through His Word, don’t try to evade it. If you do, you will become a religious impostor. Examine the things you tend simply to shrug your shoulders about, and where you have refused to be obedient, and you will know why you are not growing spiritually."

-Oswald Chambers

We began the morning with today's entry from Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest. This quote stood out and I had to share it.

How many times do we not jump at the Spirits prompting, listen the the small whisper or follow the obvious guy wrenching movement of God to do something or say something? Are you a religious impostor?

I hope you find as much as I did in the quote. I pray that we follow and obey what the Lord has for each of us daily. It is so rich and not worth missing out on.

God Bless

Photoshoot Fun

A Bit of Advise

Warning: The following post may contain TIM (to much information).

A few nights ago I was in the reading room, reading of course and had a heart stopping moment that must be shared.

On the back of my head I felt a thump. Immediately after my head was hit, I felt the same thump on my knee and saw something fall into my shorts. I start to scream at a small volume, but increased the level because whatever hit me came crawling out of my shorts.

A scorpion had fell from the ceiling, bounced off my head and knee and fell into my shorts! I was really screaming, when I saw the scorpion. As Kari heard my screams she happened to be walking near the reading room. She looked down and saw the scorpion scurrying across the floor and said, "It's just a scorpion."

The good news: I didn't get stung.

I hope everyone has a great day; watch out for falling scorpions!

A Word from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

On June 20th, 2010, I had an opportunity to share what the Lord laid on my heart at Sunday chapel.

These are the notes/converted blog from that day. The unquoted scripture comes from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, so if it is not referenced that is where the passage is from.

"To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me."

To me Paul is a superhero apostle, I mean he wrote half the New Testament, but Paul does not want to be magnified or glorified, he wants to give all the glory to the Lord. For me to read he has some problems brings him down to earth and makes him human; just like you and I.

Paul is facing opposition. James 1:2-4 it says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." God is using a "thorn in Paul's flesh," to maintain growth and maturity in Paul; God is using it for good. These are the "growing pains," that take place when you become a believer. We find them uncomfortable and miserable, but there is no reason to complain because it has a purpose: perseverance.

Another facet of Paul opposition is that it is clearly a spiritual battle. Christ tells us in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy..." Guys, we are in a spiritual battle. If we aren't facing opposition daily, than we are already playing for the other team. Satan is alive and well at Highland Lakes Camp; if we allow him to reign. We are all trying to shine for Jesus, day in and day out. Satan delights when we fail, get frustrated with one another, and get on one anthers nerves. Name anything unholy or unrighteous and Satan delights in it. This is a real battle that each of us should be aware of and stop fighting with one another and fight spiritually. Did anyone let Satan win a few this past week?

What should be our response: The Message starts verse 8 by saying, "what he in fact did was push me to my knees...Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me." We should be on our knees asking the Lord to intervene on our behalf. Where do you take your problems first? Do you take them to your neighbor?

The other day Morgan came to me complaining the computer wasn't doing what it was supposed to do and said, "He wanted to punch it!" I asked him, "Did you pray over it?" He replied in shock, "No." A few days later, we were waiting for a package to arrive. Morgan was on pins and needles. When the package arrive he proclaimed to me, "Prayer worked!" Are you asking God to help, even with your computer problems; with your relationships; with your communications skills in these times when Satan attacks? Pray, seek after the Lords help.

Verse 9 Christ answers Paul, "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

WOW! Christ doesn't say, "Ok Paul, I'll fix this," Instead Paul's answer is "grace." Through Him, and our weakness, Christ is glorified. How many times do we think, I can do this, I don't need help, I am strong enough, whatever; when really we need to surrender and rely solely on Christ. Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." In Christ, we are no longer, for lack of better words, in charge, we are Christ. We are weak humans, but with the empowerment of Christ, we are strengthening and ultimately give glory to God for are lives and what He does through it.

Paul concludes this section by saying, "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Let me read that again: "I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, and in difficulties." It doesn't say anything about complaining, whining or ignoring to or about one another, does it? It say, "I delight!" We have a hard job, but is it really that hard when we have Christ. From this scripture, God is calling us to take all these "troubles," turn them over to His grace and delight to allow Him to be glorified. We need to rely on Christ strength, or we are going to be miserable, downtrodden and tried.

When I am weak, He is strong. I urge you to surrender you life everyone morning. Accept grace, delight in troubles and rely solely on Christ Jesus for everything. In this, we give all glory to God, not ourselves.

I hope this falls fresh on those who read it. God Bless.

A Little Fire in a Dimmer

We had a little contained fire in Miles Auditorium on last Friday afternoon.

As we wrapped up Journey Two, we were cleaning up and testing some lights and smoke tickled my nose. We pulled the ladder out and started searching for the electrical fire smell. After several minutes of searching we found the above burned up dimmer pack.

Just thought I would share a little light dimmer fire fun!

Have a great day.

Landon Picture of the Day

Invitation to Worship @ Highland Lakes Camp

Most of you know that I serve at Highland Lakes Camp in Spicewood, TX. During our programmed student camps we have begun to broadcast our worship service live. I want to invite my readers to tune in tonight at 7:15pm to watch our service. The featured band this week is Article One and the speaker is Michael Satterfield.

It has been an amazing week so far, tonight should be awesome too.

Let me know if you tuned in and what you thought. I pray that the service blesses your life as it has already blessed so many this week.

The direct link is: www.highlandlakescamp.org/live

God Bless.

Landon's Birthday Party

First, I want to say thank you, thank you, thank you to all the family who attended Landon's first birthday party. We are so thankful for each of you and were amazed by your love and support Sunday afternoon.

Landon's party went well. We had wonderful food and fellowship. It included home cooked briskets by Ronald, 30 pounds of sausage, potato salad, watermelon, banana pudding, cup cake decorating station and so much more.

Landon had his own personal star cake and he had a blast tearing it up and shoving it in his mouth. I am not sure if he ate anything else, but he ate a lot of the cake. Sadly, he was starting to get sick near the end of the day. We concluded the day at the swimming pool and dinner with immediate family.

Oh and about the fireworks...we watched them on July 3rd, not July 4th.

Current update: Landon has a double ear infection, again. Please pray that he overcomes this quickly. God Bless.

Death to Self. Alive in Christ!

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Jesus asks Peter, "Will you really lay down your life for me?" Jesus asks us this question everyday. How do you respond? Do you get at of bed every morning and die to self?

Will you say, "I have been crucified with Christ," or continue to live in the flesh?

To continue to live an unchanged life in Christ is to be without Christ.

We are to strive to live holy lives. In first Peter 1:13-16 believers are call to, "...prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

I have a friend who tells me you can be sinless; the more and more I read, study, trust and believe, the more I believe we can live without sin. We need to stop making excuses and strive to be holy instead of abusing the grace of God. The Lord desires us to live holy and righteously. In Christ, you are no longer a sinner, but a saint.

If you commit your life to Christ, die to self, how can we live out this impossible faith? You can't.

In and through Christ you can and only with Christ in your heart changing and permeating your life is it possible.

What do you choose: Death or Alive in Christ?

There is freedom in Christ, will you accept His grace and follow Him?

Happy 1st Birthday, Son

Brennan Manning Quote

"Sad but true: Some Christians want to be slaves. It is easier to let others make decisions or to rely upon the letter of the law. Raised from the dead, Jesus remains present in the community of disciples as the way to freedom."

Brennan Manning The Ragamuffin Gospel

A Day with the Family

Wednesday was my day off and it sure was an amazing day off.

I can't remember the last time I had a nap, but yesterday I took a two hour nap. WOW! I didn't even realize I was that tired.

Later that evening, we weren't sure what to do about dinner. After much discussion, we decided to get out of the house. We headed to the Lakeway Chick-fil-A and enjoyed an interesting meal.

Landon ate like a champ. He is to the point now, we can stab a piece of food for him with a fork and he does the rest. After he was done eating he decided to gag himself. We are trying dissuade this action, but last night he was successful. As I was picking him up he lost his dinner all over my white shirt. I really could do nothing but laugh. I asked the Chick-fil-A guy for a new shirt. He stared into my eyes with confusion and than slowly made looked down at my vomit shirt. It was too funny.

I cleaned up and took Landon out to the playground. I was very impressed with the safety of the playground. Landon got into a few things on ground level and than found the slide. He started up the tunnel slide. Below is the video footage of his second attempt in the slide. He made it successfully three times and the third time he flew up the slide, I barely could keep up.

Today I went home for a few minutes, long enough to get in the door and allow Landon to walk across the living room to my arms for the first time. I can now officially say Landon is now walking. It has been an amazing eleven months watching him grow and learn. Enjoy the video. God Bless.

Off to the ER We Go

This post is an echo of a post on June 20, 2009 entitled A Trip to the Hospital. Yesterday evening, Kari fell in our living room at about 9:40pm. At about 10:15pm we decided to go to the hospital.

Landon was putting himself to sleep, meaning he was screaming his lungs out, and Kari was sitting in the living room without the lights on. Landon's scream turned to extreme scream so Kari went to check on him. On her walk from the couch to his room she stepped up onto Landon's train and was swept off her feet. She says her feet went in the air and than she hit her back and head on the tile floor.

My dad and Donna met us at Labor and Delivery in Round Rock. Kari's doctor happened to be on call. They hooked her up and found Baby Number Two's heartbeat. They continued to monitor her for a little over an hour and sent us home. They said, "you'll be sore in the morning," and she was (and still is). We made it home about 2am and quickly hit the sack.

I am thankful to say both Mommy and Baby are doing fine. Thanks for all the prayers.

Two funny Landon moments:

When we were being escorted by a nurse in scrubs to L&D, Landon kept his eyes on her the entire time. Landon has already had a few "bad nurse" experiences and he wasn't about to allow her to touch him. We got a laugh out of that.

Another funny note, when Landon's Grandpa walked into the room, Landon let a terrible scream. Tears rolled down his face and he got very upset. I say it is funny because Grandpa's voice is what is upsetting Landon, so I asked my dad to talk in a higher tone. By the end of the evening, Landon and Grandpa were on good terms.

God Bless.

Landon Playing in the Sprinkler

Landon Picture

Freedom, Saints, Freedom!

"...all my stains are washed away..."

This morning I had the opportunity to share my testimony to the students who are serving this summer at Highland Lakes Camp. I opened with, "Have you allowed Jesus to completely wash away your stains?"

Glowing Blue led the group in Grace Like Rain, where the above lyric comes from. God laid it on my heart to encourage the students to let their past go and bask in the freedom and love that Christ offers. In Galatians 5:1 it states, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."

Christ offers freedom and yet so many people hang on to the past. If you have Christ in your heart, you are no longer a sinner because Christ has set you free. Jesus' blood is enough to wash your stains away.

What are you hanging on to today? Have you allow the blood of Christ to wash all your sins away? I pray that each of you bask in the freedom Christ has set before us.

God Bless.

Random Thoughts

Summer is upon us. About 50 Summer Missionaries arrive today (those that aren't already here).

Blue Bell Ice Cream is now selling a Butter Crunch flavor. If you like Butterfinger and Blue Bell, this is a must try.

Watching my little boy taking his first steps is amazing.

Check out a Penny for your thoughts. My cousin Penny is a riot, check out her blog.

When I put Landon in the tub a few nights ago, there was also a live scorpion taking a bath too. I quickly reacted and scooped the scorpion out with a water pail and dumped it in the toilet. Small crisis averted.

Kari and I have started doing night time lawn projects...it is hard to weed the garden at 9pm, but a lot cooler.

I am looking forward to catching up with Mike Satterfield, who will be here this week and twice for Journey Camp.

Have a blessed Sunday. Go love someone, even if it hurts.

Landon's First Trip to the ER

On Sunday, May 16th, Kari and I took Landon to the Emergency Room. Before you have to read the whole article, Landon is fine.

Early Sunday morning Landon woke up about 1:30am and as I was rocking him back to sleep his body began to radiate with heat. I treated him with some Tylenol and put him back to sleep. Later that morning he continued to have fever of about 101 degrees. As the day progressed, Kari noticed a rash.

After attempting to contact our pediatrician, we took another pediatricians advice who said not to allow a fever and rash go unchecked. We headed out the door and went to Seton Southwest. Several hours passed and finally we were seen by a doctor.

The doctor diagnosed Strep throat and the rash was just an due to the fever. Landon got a shot and we headed home.

After further review of Landon's clothing, we have reason to believe the rash is due to his clothing being washed in Tide.

Update: Landon is doing much better. He slept with me on Monday night, but did much better last night. He was in a great mood this morning and hopefully he will be 100% by tomorrow. Thanks for your prayers.

Coming Soon to Insert Title Here

Here are a few blogs that are scheduled:

Landon's First Trip to the ER

God See's Your Motives

Thoughts on Faith & Works

Random Thoughts

Stay tuned and thanks for reading Insert Title Here. God Bless.

"Spiritual Musings from a Foolish Man"

I want to invite my readers to check out a blog that I really enjoy.

My pastor buddy (who is not so "foolish"), Jason writes Doodles, Scribbles, Hums and Notes. I keep re-reading his most recent post, The Heart Breaks and Breaks. It rings of truth and it keeps pointing my mind back to Christ. If you don't go to his post, here is a quote:

"You will be beat up and bloodied, but of the things that remain that lead us towards the light, love is the greatest. In the gospels, Jesus dies for love, and the truth is, that is the pathway to a living heart. We reach out with wounded hands that are barely healed from the last experience and our heart breaks and breaks, on its own journey toward being a thing of beauty.

I hope your days are blessed and full of life, but if you must suffer today or tomorrow, suffer for love and let your broken heart live."

Jesus lives, loves and dies for you, but it doesn't end there; He rose three days later and now sits at the right hand of God interceding for us (Romans 8:34).

Go love someone, even if it means someone might not love you back. Love hurts, but Christs love is sufficent.

For sermons from Jason, check out http://www.thewellinaustin.com/

God Bless.

Preparation for Summer Time

I am very excited that Summer 2010 is almost arrived at Highland Lakes Camp. I have enjoyed six straight summers here and am looking forward to my seventh.

Camp holds many, many, many opportunities for ministry. From the 50 college students who sacrifice 12 weeks of their summer to serve in the hot sun on the Recreation staff to the Public Relations staff who lose sleep editing video; the approximately 10,000 guests who come through the gates of HLCCC and the program guests I get to work with seven weeks out of the summer. It is such a honor and blessing to serve at Highland Lakes.

I would ask that you begin praying for our Summer Missions Team (those 50 college students I mentioned), the students attending camp and the HLCCC staff. Please pray for a boldness to share the Gospel daily, strength, and perseverance. We praise and thank the Lord for Summer 2010 and look forward to all the many exciting works You are going to do.

God Bless.

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream

Written By and Review By: Rod Cordsen

The "gospel" of the American Dream has infiltrated ever part of our American lives including the church. We spend more money every year on luxuries; even the building we meet in, the house we live in and the comforts to make life easier. We even say things like, "well that is our culture and we must go where they are to meet them and use their things and ways to draw them into the church."

In Radical, David Platt teaches very clearly the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and it doesn't look anything like the American Dream. When Jesus tells the rich man to sell all he has and give it to the poor and follow Him, we say things like, "that is not what he really means," or "we are not rich." True discipleship is a total surrender of yourself, your things, your ways and your comforts for the sake of the Gospel. We call that radical.

Platt is encouraging each of us to live the "Radical Experiment" for one year; beleive and obey what we have heard. Don't just give our scraps, but give our excess even to the point of pain. Seek out what our real responsibility is in discipling the nations. The challenge is to just preach the Gospel, disciple these who know Him and baptize them. By our transformed lives, Jesus Chirst will make Himself known and be glorfied. he will also draw the lost and save those who hear His Good News.

You are blessed by God for a global purpose. The world needs Radical followers of Christ more thanever! Read Radical and take your faith back from the American Dream.

Take up your cross...Abandon everything for the Gospel.

Download and read chapter one by clicking here and also check out http://www.radicalthebook.com/

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Capital Metro Rail is a Blunder

Capital Metro has had much lighter ridership for its Monday-to-Friday rush hour service during the line's six weeks of existence — about 1,000 a day since fares began, officials said.

Disclaimer: I hate Capital Metro.

If you had a chance to read the paper today, you will read the above quote. Are you kidding me? This train doesn't pay for itself. Austin is not dense enough to even have rail, but someone thought it would be a good idea to waste money.

Sell the trains. Stop wasting money on a money pit. Take away the Capital Metro tax money they receive and tell them to earn some money.

Get rid of Capital Metro.

This concludes my rant.

Robert and Michelle Say, "I Do."

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."

On May 1st, I had the opportunity to preform my first wedding ceremony. Friends, Rob-o and Michelle tied the knot on Saturday afternoon on a pier over the lake. It was a great time leading them in the vows and watch two in love young people commit their lives to one another.

Rob-o cracks me up. It is funny, he and I talk a lot. Simply to say he and are talkers. As he and I waited before the friends and family we did what we normally do and that is talk. Than from the second row, a baby starting crying. Yes, that was my son, Landon. He was missing nap time, so Mommy stood in the back with our son.

As the ceremony started, one of Rob-o's groomsmen came by and said, "Still have time to jump over the rail," which caused he and I both to laugh.

It was a great time and I am so glad to have been apart of their wedding. Thanks, Rob-o and Michelle and may the Lord continue to be your focus.

I hope everyone had a great day. God Bless.

C. S. Lewis in The Silver Chair

"'You would not have called to me unless I had been calling to you,'" said the Lion."

What is the Lord telling you today?

Please keep the Nichols family in your prayers.

God bless and have a great Friday.

Movies I Look Forward To

Just a little list of what I want to see:

The Losers looks action packed.

The A-Team if done right, should be amazing.

Toy Story 3 trailer with Ken and Barbie is a riot, google it.

The Expendables is about a team of mercenaries head to South America on a mission to overthrow a dictator.

Red Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, and John Malkovich.

Inception is a sci-fi/thriller with Leonardo DiCaprio that looks good.

The Other Guys are two mismatched New York City detectives played by Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell.

The Company Men stars Ben Affleck, Kevin Costner and Tommy Lee Jones.

Knight and Day is an action-comedy which includes Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz.

Iron Man 2. Enough said.

The Perfect Game looks to be a good baseball movie based on a true story.

Robin Hood teams up Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe in what looks to be a great film.

Takers, is another action film.

Machete was a spoof trailer in the Grindhouse dual by Robert Rodriguez; I enjoy Rodriguez's work.

The American stars George Clooney.

I am not sure about Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, but Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer usually do alright.

I am NOT seeing Saw VII.

Did I miss any? What movies are you looking forward to?

Pictures from the Hellums Family Vacation: I

Watching Landon Grow Up

I am pretty sure every parent I talk to reminds me that your kids, "grow up fast." I can't say I wasn't told, but it is so true. Sometimes I try to imagine when he would just lay on the floor and look at whatever was directly above him or when he didn't mind if I changed his diaper.

Kids really do grow up fast.

Landon is quickly approaching 10 months and he is in to everything. We did not baby proof fast enough, as some of you know (see the broken vase). We are scrambling now to get some baby proofing done. Did you know that it is really hard to install those baby proof deals on cabinets?

The other day Landon smashed his fingers in his hamper. It is one of those that is wooden and two pieces of wood fold apart to make it stand up on. As he was holding one of the legs he knocked it over; as he held on, the other leg closed on his pinkie and ring finger. Kari said she had to pull really hard, hard enough she thought she would pull his fingers off and that his fingers were flattened. I had a chance to come home and hold him for a few moments, but the heartache is indescribable. Later Kari asked me what we could to do prevent him from getting hurt. My only suggestion was to move into a bubble.

Landon eats almost anything, although we haven't tried jalapenos or salsa yet (he has been since he was 3 months old).

He has two different smiles. One is a flat grin (which his Grammy loves) and the other is big, usually mouth open and two shiny dimples. Its pretty cool to hear people say, "he is always smiling." What a joy!

Landon loves to laugh. He laughs because he is ticklish all over (especially his back) and just because. He loves laughing at sounds and faces. Currently my ringtone when Kari calls is Landon laughing as hard as he can at his Mommy.

He is now starting to stand up on his own. Landon crawls and walks (with his train or rocketship) fast across the room. If his Mommy is on the other side of the house, she can call his name and he will plow through anything to get to her.

In the morning I go get him and he always attacks Mommy first thing in the morning. After he makes sure she is awake he will come back to me and normally we brush our teeth together. He gets into those cabinets that aren't baby proofed and pulls out whatever he can find. Most of the time making sure he puts it in his mouth.

Having children is amazing. I am so thankful to live and work at a place where I can see him so much more than I imagine anywhere else. They grow up fast; so if you are about to have a little one, I am now echoing those that told me:

"Enjoy it now, because they grow up fast and before you know it they will be asking for the car keys."

God Bless and have a great weekend.

Sad 'Stros

I have been enjoying Major League Baseball season 2010, but sadly the Astros are not doing so well. Here are five things you might try to do to improve your season:

1. Stop trading players that are young and good.

2. Check your 2005 season notes; there has to be something in them that will help you.

3. Maybe consider adding some offense to your game.

4. How about hiring a Major league manager, not a Minor league manager.

5. Sell the team and start over...like the Oilers did!

Nah, I am not worried (okay, maybe a little bit). I will be really worried if after All Star break they don't come on strong.

Happy Baseball Season. Go 'Stros!

The Hellums Family Vacation: I

(from Landon's perspective)

After Dad got off work, we loaded the rocketship and I got buckled into my seat (I hate my car seat). Mommy reminded Daddy to pray for our trip, so we prayed as a family than we took off for Galveston. We traveled for about four hours. Traffic was light and Mommy was set on having Shrimp & Stuff for dinner; closing time is 8pm. We arrived on the Island just in time to have dinner were Mommy wanted. The food looked good, but all I had was a cracker. We checked into our hotel on the seawall and I got to see the Gulf of Mexico for the first time.

Monday morning I woke up at about 7:30am. I slept seven hours straight, giving Mommy and Daddy some good sleep. We got out early to explore the Island. Mommy told us a story about my Pawpaw (her dad) trading a hog for seafood. We stumbled on the place Sampson and Son's and Mom exclaimed, "This is where Dad traded the hog!" We pulled in, near the pier and Mom insisted we take pictures in front of the store front. We talked to a man named Don, a nice guy, who took our picture with Galveston Bay and the shrimp boats behind us. Don told us about the 78 year old shrimp boat captain Sampson and Son's buys all their shrimp from; he was across the bay culling through his days catch. Don said, "Go over there and watch him. Tell 'em Don sent ya." We walked over to the pier and watch Mr. Jerome pitch sting rays, little fish and sharks back into the water or into a pelicans mouth. After taking a few pictures we went over to Shrimp & Stuff for lunch.

After lunch we went to the candy store, La Kings on the Strand. I tried my first root beer float and rode a mechanical boat and horse. Than I experienced another exciting first, I got to swim in a large bathtub (swimming pool). After getting cleaned up in our room we went to a new restaurant Miller's Seawall Grill (new to us). Daddy really enjoyed his food, but Mommy, not so much. During our visit to Miller's, Dad and I walked around the restaurant talking with the other patrons (I was getting sleepy). As I rode back to the hotel, outside my window was a full moon over the gulf. This sight made a beautiful picture to the end of our wonderful day.

Landon slept a straight eight hours waking up into day two about 5:30am. We took a little nap, but got up in time to watch the d
sunrise; another beautiful sight of Galveston. We ate some breakfast and than went back to the room for a nap. Aunt Ashley, cousins Daniel and Lydia came to visit (along with a new friend Katherine.). We ate skimp & stuff for lunch and than hit the stand. We went down to the candy store again and had some ice cream. On our way back to the car we signed up for a free cruise. More details to come on day three. Than went the beach with Ashley and kids. It was Landon's first time to dip his feet in the gulf of Mexico an play in the sand. After just a little bit of sun and sand we headed back to the room for a bath and a nap. For dinner we headed to Rain Forest Cafe.

Wednesday we went to a new place (well they are all new to me) called Bennos. Daddy really loves boudin and that was one of the menu items. We has to eat fast, but the food was great. Daddy says we will be going back to Bennos again soon. We ate fast because we went to a presentation. As I mentioned earlier we signed up for a free cruise, but first we had to go through a presentation. After the presentation we did receive a $40 American Express Card, 5 day cruise, and 3 nights stay at a resort. From what I understand, we will be playing another vacation sometime in the near future. Later that evening we had dinner with Blaine and Lauren at Landry's on the seawall. We enjoyed a good dinner and great conversation with my new friends. I did have a chance to put on a show while we were there. Daddy thought it would be funny if I tried a lemon. I didn't like it (of course) and made a bunch of funny faces and several people got a few laughs (not Mommy though).

Thursday morning Mommy and Daddy packed up while I napped. With one last trip to Shrimp & Stuff (I think Mommy and Daddy like Shrimp & Stuff), we enjoyed our last meal in Galveston. Before we left the Island, we made two more stops. One of them was at Murdoch's Bathhouse. I got my first souvenirs and Daddy picked up a history of the Island book (Hurricane Ike destroyed Murdoch's in 2008). For our last stop, Mommy and Daddy took me to Moody Gardens Aquarium for the first time. We looked at sharks, stingrays, but my favorite were the penguins. They swim right by the glass that I was leaning on and I think maybe one of them winked at me. When I got bored, I chased Mommy and the stroller. It was a fun and relaxing vacation. On our way home I got a little fussy, I mean I had already been in the car for two and a half hours, so Mommy and Daddy decided to stop in Columbus. My family, the Frei's (I mentioned earlier), said we could swing by for dinner. What we thought would just be dinner, turned into us staying the night. I had fun playing with Daniel and Lydia that evening and the next morning.

I hope you enjoyed my telling of The Hellums Family Vacation: I. Soon enough, our next vacation will include my little brother, Hellums Baby Boy Number Two. Have a great day.

Breaking Landon News

This evening I handed Landon his cell phone (from his Great Grandmother) and he stood up for about ten seconds all by himself.

Wow! He sure is growing up fast.

Have a great evening and thanks for tuning in.

Parking Lot Post

This afternoon Landon and I are hanging out in the car, in a parking lot. Actually, Landon is asleep and Kari ran into a store.

We just went to the doctor for Landon's nine month appointment. No shots, but there was a finger prick to take a blood sample. The prick wasn't so bad, but the squeezing the blood out part was painful. Landon cried pretty good for several minutes. About a week ago he was diagnosed with two ear infections; as of today they have not cleared up.

I hope everyone has a great week.

Here comes "Mom.". Off to the pharmacy.

God bless.

Friday Movie Pick: IMAX: Hubble 3D

Narrarated by Leonardo DiCaprio, IMAX: Hubble 3D, chronicles the effort of 7 astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. From the preview, the images captured look amazing. I enjoy space and space exploration, so I am looking forward to IMAX: Hubble 3D.

If you see it, let me know what you thought.

Happy movie watching.

And The Holy Spirit Pours Out

"There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!" Romans 5:3-5

Let me start by saying, I am starting to learn what God wants to see in my life. First, to be a lover, follower and disciple of Christ. God wants me to share the story of His son Jesus to anyone I meet. Help out my neighbor, community and friends who are serving around the world. Second, love my wife. Give her encouragement, support her and listen to her thoughts and desires. Third, love and take care of my family. This means I serve the Lord in whatever capacity he allows and use whatever the Lord provides to put food, shelter and clothes on my wife and son.

Without listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, none of the above is possible.

Leadership with the Holy Spirit:

Recently I have been learning a new style of leadership: Lead with the Holy Spirit in mind; be truthful and bold and compassionate. What does that mean? Throughout the day, weekend or minute by minute, I am tasked with many things. Sometimes I can delegate certain things, asked to make on the spot decisions and many times have people looking for me for guidence. If I do follow the Holy Spirit or determine what the Lord would have me say or do, than I found out that things run much better. If I don't speak up or act with the Holy Spirit in mind, none of these things will happen and it would be just me trying to do all the work.

Confession:

Hi, my name is Jeremy, I am a recovering passive person. If you want to be run over, not speaking up is permission to be allowed to be run over. I am learning to speak up for what I believe, need and desire. As I said, if you don't, you get walked on. Don't get me wrong, sometimes saying nothing at all is the right answer, but too many times I have not said or done enough. God is teaching me this no action is sinful, not right.

As I learn these lessons and apply them, please pray that I will continue to be willing to learn and grow from the many, many, things the Lord is teaching me daily.

God Bless.

This Little Prayer of Mine Book Giveaway

This Little Prayer of Mine is a children's book that Insert Title Here is giving away in April. The deadline is April 5, 2010. Post a comment and tell me why I should mail you a free copy of this new book.

Happy posting.

10 Recommendations for the Obama Administration

This was previously written, but somehow I forgot to post it. Here it is:

2009 was such an amazing first year for the Obama Administration, I thought I would give him a few tips.

Dear Obama Administration,

Here are a few things I would like to see in 2010. I hope you make them all possible.

1. Ban vehicles in America. Let the auto industry operate along side the government with a Auto Czar and only sell vehicles as exports.

2. Due to the ban on vehicles heavily promote mass transportation. Build more trains, bicycle lanes and walking paths for people to get around on.

3. Raise taxes. I think if you take away more of our money it will be better for everyone.

4. Enact a strict censorship law on all media banning any negative talk about the Obama Administration.

5. Start DNA profiling every American, except elected officials, in order to more accurately track individuals.

6. Tear down the White House and build a more green and efficient place to run the nation.

7. Mandate that everyone should have a dog. If the president has one, than we should all have one.

8. Tell John McCain that it is no longer election time, implying that during the campaign he was just lying (he was.)

9. Ram the health care bill on millions of American who don't want it (this is a HIGHLY possibility.)

10. Ban freespeech so people like you and I can't write blogs like this!

Have a great 2010, Mr. President.

Prayer Request and Support for Kodi

Stine Taylor has been keeping us posted on Kodi. Kodi is 5 years old who has just been diagnosed with cancer. I have gotten to know Kodi's parents over the past serveral years through the camp and Stine keeps us updated on how the family is doing. Stine posted the following on facebook and I wanted to share it with my readers:

"So you want to help......

Alright family, friends and friends that are family.........

I know that everyone wants to jump it and give or do something to help Kodi and her family. This is what all of you can do right now. First say a prayer of healing and understanding for the Tutt's. Then pull out your check books and donate some $$$ to the Tutts. I know what you are thinking "Just money!!" Yes just money, they are currently being overwhelmed with gifts and just random junk. Kodi does not need more junk in the house gathering dust, dust and germs are now the enemy. With the money you donate the Tutts can use it for what is needed. You can send donations to:

Prosperity Bank
1100 N. Stemmons
Sanger, Texas 76266

If you don't want to give cash another good option is gift cards. Gas cards, fast food gift cards....etc.

Ok......there are t-shirts and stickers in the works. I will get prices as soon as these items are created and I will post about them. At that time if you would like one, two .....six, let me know and I will take care of it.

If yall have any questions about anything just let me know. The best way to get a hold of me is via text. [you can get this number from me; email me @ jeremyhellums@gmail.com]

I love all of y'all

And the Tutts appreciate all of the prayers and support."

Please prayerfully consider this and lift Kodi and her family up in prayers. God Bless.

Friday Movie Pick: The Bounty Hunter & Green Zone

I am going to try and bring back my Friday Movie Pick. I really enjoyed watching the Oscars the other night and remember when The Hurt Locker came out; although I have not seen it yet, but from the previews alone I knew it was going to be a hit.

The Bounty Hunter cast includes Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler. Director Andy Tennant (Hitch) spins a tale of a bounty hunter whose next target is his ex-wife. It should be a good little flick.

Green Zone will be the "Bourne flick" of 2010. I highly enjoy watching Matt Damon in action films and until he makes a bad one, I will continue to be a fan. Set in Iraq, Damon's character learns covert and faulty intelligence might be the reason weapons of mass destruction cannot be found. I look forward to seeing this film.

If you've seen them, let me know what you thought. Happy movie watching. Have a great weekend.

Thanks for Signing Up for Friends of Highland Lakes

In my post on January 12, 2010, I shared with you a bit of my testimony and some facts about the camp and a few of you decided to support the camp.

I wanted to say a big THANK YOU for those of you who signed up for Friends of Highland Lakes Camp. The work here for the kingdom continues day to day and I am excited to share last weekend at Hot Hearts there were 13 decisions to follow Christ. The Lord is moving and we ask for the continued prayers and support for Highland Lakes Camp.

Have a great weekend.

Baby Hellums Number Two Update

The ultrasound was so much fun. I have been looking forward to March 17th for awhile (not due to St. Patrick's Day; I did wear green though).

The tech went right to work, so fast, I didn't even catch his name. The tech said, "I will do all the measurements first and than show you the screen." He squirted the nasty gel stuff on and went to work. Landon and I found a spot behind the tech so we could get a good look at the screen. I asked, "Do you mind if I stand here?" I don't recall the response, but I held my position.

At first I didn't know what he was looking at, but than I started to see little body parts including: the heart, neck and head. He was doing some initial measurements and I watched him measure the heart and counted the chambers. It is so amazing to see the growth of a baby at 18 weeks.

The tech moved the instrument around and all of a sudden I saw something very fimilar. I exclaimed, "That's a peepee, we're having another boy!" After my outburst the tech lightened up a little and started chatting with us. We got several great pictures of Baby Hellums Number Two. The tech told us he is about 8 ounces now and everything looked good.

Landon fell asleep about half way into the appointment. He got a little bored, but what do you expect he is only 8 months old. I snapped a picture of him sleeping on my chest. He is so precious.

As you might remember from Landon, we will announce Baby Hellums Number Two's name online the day of the birth. If you happen to chat with us in person and really want to know, we are likely to tell you because we are very excited.

Please continue to pray for my family and Baby Hellums Number Two. Thanks to everyone for your continued prayers and support.

Baby Hellums Number Two is...

A boy!

More details to come.

Wanted!

As of this afternoon, Landon Hellums was wanted for breaking the below vase. He has been seen crawling up and leaning against the said vase and has been told "no" several times for said actions.

This afternoon he was hanging out with his Pawpaw and he was driving his red Radioflyer Rocketship. He made it into the entry to the hallway and made a pit stop by the red baseball shaped vase. That is when he leaned or pushed against the vase and WHAM! went the vase.

Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it is uncertain if the parents should be blamed for even having a large glass vase in their house or if the little guy who broke the item should be charged.

A unstated reward has been issued for any information connected with this incident.

Is it a Boy or a Girl?

Tomorrow is the day we go to the doctor to find out if we ar having a boy or a girl. I am very excited about this appointment. Kari has been feeling Baby Number Two move around a lot and I felt the movement a few nights ago.

I have been talking and praying with Landon about our new addition, but I am pretty sure he has no clue he is about to have a sibling.

I was thinking about it last night and I am not sure I ever imagined having two kids this close together. In fact, I am sure I thought of having kids some day, but never thought it would be this way. It always seems to happen to Kari and I; we make plans, but they don't work out our way.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11.

Have a wonderful day.

Aaron Ivey Band

I had the pleasure of mixing the Aaron Ivey Band at Hot Hearts. Aaron and his band are great guys who not only make good music and have a heard for the Lord, but made an amazing music video:



According to youtube this is, "A music video from Aaron Ivey of the track, "Amos Story", from his latest record, "Between The Beauty & Chaos." Look for opportunities to tangibly help Haiti at the end of this video." They rocked this live for the students at Hot Hearts and I can't get these images out of my head everytime I hear the song.

I hope you enjoyed. God Bless.

Happy Three Year Anniversary, Kari

Today marks our three year anniversary. It has been a very fun ride so far and I look forward to it becoming even better. We have been blessed to have our first son, Landon Jeremy on July 4th and are expecting Baby Hellums Number Two in August.

I will never forgot when Kari Davenport walked into Miles Auditorium at Highland Lakes Camp and introduced herself to me. She was wearing her finest clothing, summer work clothes: boy shorts and an old t-shirt. For the record, I was on the ladder working while two of my buddies watched me.

Kari: "Hey, is that a Texas A&M wristband?" (back when the Lance Armstrong wristbands were popular and everyone under the sun made one).

Jeremy: "No! (with disdain) It is Texas State."

Kari: "Oh well, I thought it was A&M. I am Kari Davenport.

The rest of the details in my head are a bit sketchy, but I won't forget those words, her smile, and confidence.

I am thankful to have her as my bride and best friend. I pray that we continue to draw near to one another and the Lord together for many years to come.

Happy Anniversary.

Quotes from A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller

These are just a few of my favorite lines from A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller. If you haven't read Blue Like Jazz, I would recommend reading it before you read this new one.

"Here's the truth about telling stories with you life. It's going to sound like a great idea, and you are going to get excited about it, and then when it comes time to do the work, you're not going to want to do it. It's like writing a books, and it's like that with life. People love to have lived a great story, but few people like the work it takes to make it happen. But joy costs pain." pg. 100

"Job found contentment and even joy, outside the context of comfort, health or stability. He understood the story was not about him, and he cared more about the story then he did about himself." pg. 197

"The human story goes on." pg. 203

"It's a terrible thing to wake up and realize the person you just finished crucifying didn't turn out to be Jesus." pg. 205

Have a great day. God Bless.

Very Interesting Article on Church of Scientology

"Raised as Scientologists, Christie King Collbran and her husband, Chris, were recruited as teenagers to work for the elite corps of staff members who keep the Church of Scientology running...

They signed a contract for a billion years — in keeping with the church’s belief that Scientologists are immortal. They worked seven days a week, often on little sleep, for sporadic paychecks of $50 a week, at most."

The New York Times posted this article this morning concerning abuse in the Church of Scinetology. Here is another quote from the article:

"The defectors say Sea Org members were repeatedly beaten by the church’s chairman, David Miscavige, often during planning meetings; pressured to have abortions; forced to work without sleep on little pay; and held incommunicado if they wanted to leave."

Check out the link and read it for yourself!

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).

Just Landon & I

This weekend Kari is going to a Lady's Retreat, so Landon and I are holding down the fort. We dropped Mommy off yesterday evening and headed back to camp. He basically cried the whole way home and threw up on himself. About 15 minutes from the house, he feel asleep.

Due to the vomit, I tossed him in the bathtub and we played for a little bit. He loves the bathtub, but is not satisfied with just "swimming" on his belly. Landon has to stand up in the tub, explore and cause me to worry about him hitting his head (which he does).

I got him dressed and bedtime was quickly approaching. He took his last bottle of the evening and quickly fell asleep. It was a great night and I got plenty of sleep.

Currently he is napping, maybe it will be one of those two hour naps I have been hearing about. It has been a great day off with my son and I am excited and looking forward to the rest of the weekend with him.

I have a special prayer request: Kari's Aunt Eve was just diagnosed with cancer. Eve is an amazing mother of three little ones who depend on her a ton. Her husband, John, is not taking it so well, so please pray for healing and comfort for John and Eve.

I hope everyone has a great weekend. Also keep Kari, Landon and I in your prayers as she attends the retreat and Landon and I spend our first weekend solo.

God Bless.

"Tiger Woods' apology: sincere or staged?"

This question has been posted or said in so many places since yesterday's press conference.

Who cares.

Leave the man and his family alone. He made a mistake and apologized; let him work it out with his family and get back on the golf course as soon as possible!

Find something else to report.

This concludes my rant. Thanks.

Hear No Evil

Matthew Turner had me laughing from the beginning of Hear No Evil. This was a book that was not going to be put down. What seemed a bit like the movie, Almost Famous, Turner offers a view into how music has affected his life, and how it subconsciously affects us all. His jokes and honesty about being a Baptist made this a page turner, but he was real with everything he wrote. The honesty he pours into this book helps all Christians realize that they aren’t the only ones who have been there. Turner talks about personal struggles and it is something we can all relate to, but something we would never share with other believers for fear of being judged.

This book goes by quickly, but music is always in the background, whether you’re hearing Turner’s or the music of your past. He ends with a perfect sound and what I felt was a peace to how life has gone. There is always a song or artist who can help you find your way back to, or closer to God. I’d recommend this book to a reader of any age. Happy reading!

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Reviewed By: Ashley Beggs

Love & War Worth Your Time

By reading the first few pages of Love and War by John and Stasi Eldredge, I know I have found a good one.

"With refreshing openness that will grab readers...the Eldredges candidly discuss their own marriage and the insights they’ve gained from the challenges they faced."

John and Stasi take turns giving their respected point of views and the knowledge they have gained from the situtions shared. They don't seem to hold anything back; confessing in the beginning that early on in their marriage they were already discussing divorce.

As I have been reading through the book, many of the topics and thoughts have been very relevant in my own life. It has made me evaluate how I can strive to be a better husband to my wife. I am sure I will be re-reading several sections of this book in order to soak in all that I can from Love and War. Check it out and get your copy today.

God Bless.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Hellums Family News Update

Kari, Landon and I went to the doctor on February 3rd and learned she is 12 weeks along (as previously posted). The heart rate was averaging about 160 and from the picture everything seems to be doing fine.

Kari is experiencing the same type of sickness she had with Landon. This includes: vomiting several times a day, nausea and sometimes a headache. She didn't try during the last pregency, but she is taking Zofran, which is used to prevent nausea and vomiting. It works every other day, but she is very thankful for the good days.

In addition to moving very fast on all fours, Landon is now pulling up on anything he can get his hands on. His favorite "toy" now is an empty diaper box. He will pull himself up to his feet and than push his entire body on top of the box and lay there like a seal. He does fall off on occasion, but Kari or myself is usually there to catch him.

I am continuing to love where God has allowed me to serve. I enjoy everyday at Highland Lakes Camp. Ira, Brandon and I are always working hard, but laughing almost all day long. We are currently pulling a daily prank on Mr. Clyde and Mr. Bill; everytime they go on break at the dining hall they leave the windows down on the truck. We roll up and lock the doors to the truck; easy to get back into, but their reactions are priceless (shhh, they don't know we are doing this).

This month we are hosting the annual Highland Lakes Women's Conference. Called to A New Day will be February 26-27 and it looks to be a wonderful event. On March 12-13, Highland Lakes is hosting the Texas Hill Country Hot Hearts Student Conference. The featured guest are: Afshin Ziafat, Aaron Ivey, and Remedy Drive. You can register online this year, so sign up today.

I hope everyone is doing well. God Bless and have a great week.

Love Never Fails by Brandon Heath

"Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all
Matters the most

Love does not run
Love does not hide
Love does not keep
Locked inside

Love is the river that flows through
Love never fails you

Love will sustain
Love will provide
Love will not cease
At the end of time

Love will protect
Love always hopes
Love still believes
When you don’t

Love is the arms that are holding you
Love never fails you

When my heart won’t make a sound
When I can’t turn back around
When the sky is falling down
Nothing is greater than this
Greater than this

Love is right here
Love is alive
Love is the way
The truth the life

Love is the river than flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you will fly to
Love never fails you"

"Franklin is Takin' it With Him"

Rev. Joe Dan Franklin, Kari's Pepapa (grandpa), passed away on February 5, 2010, at the age of 80.

One of his many statements concerning death was "Franklin is takin' it with him." He would joke that at his funeral he wanted a u-haul truck to follow the hearse with a sign on it that said, "Franklin is takin' it with him," and than he would laugh a great big laugh. He was a man who loved to joke, give people a hard time, loved people and the Lord passionately.

Rev. Joe Dan served as pastor at several churches in Central and East Texas and Louisiana. One of my favorite sermons he shared with me was simply, "Love." He described to me that the Lord had laid on his heart to get up and just say, "love," to the congregation. What a powerful message; one that I will never forget.

Rev. Joe Dan was married to Mary Lou and had five wonderful children: Martha, Danny, Becky, Ruth and John; many many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 1 to 5 p.m., Sunday, February 7, at Memorial Funeral Chapel in College Station. A funeral service is set for 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 8, at First Baptist Church of College Station.

Thanks for all your prayers. God Bless.

Angels

Angels: Who They Are and How They Help--What the Bible Reveals by Dr. David Jeremiah is a look into angels. Dr. Jeremiah uses scripture to reveal to the reader his points. Its not a quick read, because it makes you want to pick up your bible and read many of the accounts in the bible the author refers to.

It is an interesting and intriguing topic. I would recommend checking out Dr. David Jeremiah Angels.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Baby Hellums Number Two News

Baby Hellums Number Two is scheduled, which we all know is subject to change, is due August 15, 2010.

More to come.

God bless and please keep us in your prayers.

Do You Ever Google Your Name?

I do often.

For several reasons, but now Insert Title Here is the first hit when you google Jeremy Hellums. This evening I typed in Kari Hellums and found the following article in the Rockdale Reporter:

"Congratulations to Ronald and Ruth Davenport of Milano on the birth of their new grandson. Daughter Kari Hellums and husband Jeremy welcomed their first child, Landon Jeremy, at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 4. Landon weighed six pounds 14 ounces and was 18 inches long.

Other grandparents are Denis and Donna Hellums of Cedar Creek and Debbie Lueders of Smithville. Great grandparents are Joe Dan and Mary Lou Franklin of College Station and Granny Lueders of Bastrop."

I had no clue this was in a newspaper. Gotta love Google!

I hope everyone has had a great week. God Bless.

Attack of Mommy

Attack of Landon

Prayerfully Consider Friends of Highland Lakes Camp

As most of you know, I currently serve at Highland Lakes Camp in Spicewood, TX. Highland Lakes has been a very special place for me for more than eleven years. In the Summer of 1998, I accepted the Lord as my Saviour. This instilled within me a passion to serve others in the name of the Lord. Another amazing divine appointment at Highland Lakes was the Summer of 2005, when I met my wife Kari in Miles Auditorium and most recently the Lord called Kari and I to live and work at Highland Lakes in April of 2009.

Highland Lakes Camp is a place for ANYONE to come: to find the Lord, meet with God here in worship and prayer, enjoy Christian fellowship and SO many other ways. I was just one of the 16,700+ who have commited their lives to Christ over the last 50 years at Highland Lakes Camp. That is an average of 334 people annually who come to know the Lord. Isn't that an amazing thing to praise the Lord for?

Our new Director of Development and Church Relations, Rod Cordsen, has put together a monthly giving program designed to invite every person who is connected to Highland Lakes Camp either from coming to camp here, participating in a retreat, being a member of a local church connected to the work of the camp and our 12 associational Baptist churches and their members to join together in reaching our communities for Christ. Our staff and board are already the largest financial supporters of the camp and that is due to first God's call on their lives and second their understanding of what God is doing here and finally their belief that it is important in the kingdom.

What does all that mean for the readers of Insert Title Here?

I am asking for your help and join Kari and I in becoming a Friend of Highland Lakes Camp. We have submitted our paper work and our asking you to join us in supporting Friends of Highland Lakes Camp.

It is easy. You can follow the link and set up your monthly donation online, call the camp (1-888-222-3482) and talk to Rod Cordsen or download the form from the website and mail it in. If you have any questions email me.

God Bless.

Coming Soon in 2010: Hellums Baby Number Two

FAQ:

How far along is she? We are not for certain as of yet; we will be going to the doctor sometime in the next couple of weeks. (I am sure I will post more details after that appointment.)

Were you planning this? No. Too many times Kari and I make plans, but God has a completely different plan. I said this a few times, "I am not sure if we would have planned Baby Number Two, so this works."

Was Kari taking birth control? Yes and as my boss likes to say, "That baby is going to come out with its fist clinched around a little pill."

Are you excited? I am very excited, but shocked. Who wouldn't want three more little "Landon" babies! :) It has been a wonderful first six months and I am looking forward to having another baby.

Is Kari sick again? Yes. She has already started throwing up and snacking all day long. I guess we should have realized something was up when she started snacking again at weird hours.

Do you have a name picked out? We do have a girl name picked out, but not a boy name. Upon birth we will announce the name of Baby Number Two.

Do you want a boy or a girl? Yes. We are praying for a healthy and strong baby. I think Kari would like a girl, but I want another boy.

If I missed anything, please feel free to ask. We would ask that you pray for Kari, Landon and I as we travel down another year of pregnancy.

Batterson's Primal Worth the Read

Mark Batterson's latest book is an encouragement to myself and the church of one of Jesus' teaching, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind..." (Luke 10:27). Primal: A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity is broken into four sections and Batterson focuses on the ways we can love God: our heart, soul, strength, and our minds. This happens to be one of my "cornerstone verses" that I often read and re-read.

Batterson uses easy to read applicable stories from his own life and others to help the reader understand his points. I would highly recommend anyone reading this book. The author never writes over your head and his books ooze with his own personal relationship with Christ; it is easy to allow God to change your heart after reading a Mark Batterson book.

Check out Primal: A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity, you won't be disappointed.

God Bless.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

A Few Quick Points

Landon had his first cold; 101 temp and all...he is getting better, still a little congested.

Today began Christmas break @ HLCCC; ready for a little rest and relaxation. Family Christmas' here we come!

We recently found out we will be moving from the north side of camp to what I call the east side of camp. We will be moving from our 1 bedroom duplex to a 3 bedroom house. It will be more space and crawling room for Landon.

Kari hurt her back some how and was in extreme pain last night; please keep her in your prayers and Landon too as he is fighting this cold (and we are loosing sleep).

I plan to write a Christmas blog...so stay tuned. God bless.

Hey Cupcake! Review

We have driven by the new Hey Cupcake! stand in Oak Hill and finally dropped by to see what it was all about. I have heard several people say they were amazing cupcakes, so we had to check it out.

With one store front and four other location "on wheels" in and around Austin; business does not seem to be too bad. I think the idea is cleaver, especially in a town like Austin. If you haven't seen one of these stands, basically the menu consists of 7 cupcakes, drinks and other gift items (shirt, hat, gift card).

Kari ordered The Standard and Red Velvet. We tried both and to be honest weren't very impressed. The Standard left a funny after taste in my mouth, none that I desire in a cupcake. The price seems a little high as well. Coming in at $2.50, that will be the last $5.00 I will spent at Hey Cupcake!.

With a little quality improvement in the flavor of the cupcakes, this little business would be smokin', but until than, it is just and average, quirky desert joint in Austin.

Have a great day.

A Few New Photos by Rod

Landon Laughs Some More

It All Boils Down to Love

One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"

"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:28-31

Will and I have talked about the "most important" passage in all of scripture and the above is in my opinion one of those critical passages we need to grasp. In addition to making Jesus Christ our Lord, we need to love above all else. When we are loving God and our neighbors, as the passage states, how can anyone walk around NOT excited about life.

"Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth." Psalm 100:1

First and foremost we should love God. I think if many of us lived this on a daily basis, our world would look a lot different. Jesus' love should be pouring out of us to God, praising Him for our lives, creation and all the many blessings He showers down upon us. Each day is a day granted by God and rightly so, we should shout for joy to the Lord. Colossians 3:17 states, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

What does this look like? I think if and when we are loving the Lord are God and our neighbors: someone is excited about life with a smile on their face and encouraging one another; lending a helping hand to those in need; someone who looks past: race, creeds and economic status, but sees another creation by God; talking and praise the Lord throughout the day. These are just a few ways I think the world would look if we allowed God's love to flow in and through us on a daily, minute by minute basis.

God love you. In Psalm 66:20, the writer gives praise to God, "...who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!" God's love is indesirably huge and amazing and yet, we are loved by God. ("We love because he first loved us," 1 John 4:19.)

Be encouraged today to let love in, as the Goo Goo Dolls song goes, it all boils down to God's love. God loves you. Spread and share His love today with someone you know; a friend, neighbor, a stranger or anyone I might not have mentioned; just take the many opportunities God has ordained for you and love on someone.

God Bless.