Three Decades Behind Me.

  Three decades are coming to a close for me.  What a daunting thought.  It has been an incredible thirty years.  I've had some awesome, memorable times.  Most of all, I've found the love of my life and that made all 30 worth it and I'm looking forward to another 30++ with Sally.  In other areas though, I can't say I've made it to the place I thought I would be by now. 

    It took me more time and a whole lot more money to prepare for ministry.  8 years and $54,000 in student loans to be exact.  It's also taken longer than expected to pay that off.  Since 2007 we've paid off $21,000 in other debt and $25,000 of the student loan.  Quite an accomplishment purely from our income.  ONLY $29,000 left to go on the student loan.  Only is easy for you to say.  I'm the one delivering pizzas in the rain, snow, and to the occasional no-tipper in addition to my day job at the big orange box.  Who doesn't tip a delivery driver only making $4.25/hr?  Jerks.

  At least Seminary prepared me well to humbly handle the no-tipping pizza customer.

  Kidding aside, I'm anxious to discover that sweet spot of Kingdom ministry that God has for us.  We're eagerly seeking and serving God's Kingdom in any and every way we can.  One of these days he'll lead us to that place where longevity will abound.  

   I've learned many lessons: Home ownership is not always the best investment; Education is invaluable, just don't go into debt for it; Planting a church is all about God and his timing; We are more selfish than we are invested when it comes to Church and the Kingdom(me included), God help us.

   Here's to more life, more memorable and awesome times, and more knowledge and discernment with fewer hard lessons!

Giant Via 1 2011 Review

Happened across the new 2011 Giant "Via" 1 today at River Market Cyclery. I've been perusing the internet for sometime now looking at the best commuter bikes out there. I'm not looking for one to buy in the next hour but it is something I'd like to have. I like the idea of a more comfortable ride and practical bike than the typical mt. bike you'd find in the average person's garage.

The Giant Via never came up in my searches. The best bike for the value that ever came up was the Raleigh Detour Deluxe 2011, totally redesigned for this model year.

My new favorite and top pick is the Giant Via 1. Let me compare it to the Raleigh. It's a little more "street smart" than the Raleigh. It has a factory mount pannier rack that has all the typical capabilities; the Raleigh is welded on and has limitations.

The Giant has a split top tube with an integrated slot to put a U lock for easy transport. Unfortunately it is only 3 speed internal hub and Raleigh is 8, plus it does not have dynamo powered lights. However, it is similar in that it has minimalist graphics and chain guard for a sleek, clean and modern look.

Both the Raleigh and the Giant are adequately equipped for the price. The Giant is as much as you could expect for $549 and the same for the Raleigh at $799.

The test ride was quite enjoyable. The 3 gears were well thought out and can get you through most situations. I love the price and equally love the bike. I feel better as a newbie about beginning in the commuter bike market with a smaller investment. I could always upgrade it later with an 8 speed hub with a belt drive, now we're talking!