Cliff Hackler Ministries Blog

I'm Baaaaack!

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Well, it has been a long time since I have blogged so I thought I had better make myself make an entry. I’ll try to sum up the last several months as concisely as I can and then make some sort of “new” commitment to doing a better job at blogging.

When I returned from Spain after Thanksgiving, I flew head long into a busy Christmas concert schedule. Then Jennifer, Matthew, and I enjoyed a wonderful holiday time with our families. Typically, January and February are my “stay in the south” time of year and I usually ease back into a full time travel schedule by March or April. This year is no different in that regard although I have added a twist to it. I began teaching two music classes at Navarro College in January on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This has been really fun and different for me. It has given me a new set of challenges and I have enjoyed the change. It still allows me to have my long weekends to travel and continue doing this ministry which is really great because I can’t imagine NOT getting to do this ministry. I’ve been trying to get Jennifer and Matthew to call me “professor” so far – no dice.

I have gotten to play a lot this spring and my spring/summer schedule continues to get booked up. I will be trying to solidify that over the next couple of months so if you have been wanting me to come to your church let me know and let’s get everything worked out.

I am still working on my new CD as finances allow. I would love for it to come out next February which would be the beginning of my 10^th anniversary for this ministry. Honestly, as of right now I don’t see that happening, but I am still asking God to make it happen financially if that is His desire. If not, perhaps it can be released the following February which could be the celebration of 10 years in this ministry – we’ll have to see.

Not only am I delinquent in my blogs, but also my calendar and everything other part of my website. I am in a place now that I think I can consistently work on getting caught up with that so feel free to keep checking back and I will let you know when the next blogcast will be posted as well.

If you have any idea’s as to what you would like to see in the next blogcast – let me know.

In His Grip!

Cliff

Heading Home

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Eliezer was born in Valencia. His family moved to Houston, Texas when he was 4 and they resided there for about 10 years, before moving back to Spain. His Dad is a pastor and is currently at a church in the southern island area of Spain. Eliezer met and married his wife, Virginia, who is also a student at the Seminary and they have a sweet little one year old boy named, Pablo. Eliezer and Virginia co-pastor the church in Toledo.

Eliezer and I became fast friends. When we got into the car he showed me an order of service and we talked briefly about that and prayed together. After he started the car, he looked at me and said, “I’ve never been here before.” I waved my hand and said, “Oh great, I do this all of the time in the States, and I have been helping people get around Spain too (see yesterdays blog entry for details) – this will be fun.” We both laughed and I showed him how to get onto the expressway.

After getting set up for my concert at his church, he took me through town to “culture” me and “culture” me he did. I had chestnuts that were roasting on an open fire (stop singing the song!), for real, I had them for the first time and they were good. Of course, Eliezer and I tried to sing the song together. We couldn’t remember all of the words, but we didn’t let that stop us from singing with our mouths full and laughing. He took me to a bar (not the kind in the States). It was small (as they typically are here), and they usually have a few more people in them than they can actually hold, but they serve their meals there too. It was like a really small European Waffle House except it was clean and they don’t call you “Darling.” We had “Tapas” which are little portion dishes with the Toledo cuisines – cheese, ham, olives, sardines, a potato omelet thing, and of course fried squid. It was all very good. We ate with a toothpick! After getting full we walked through town for a while – looking at the sites and then finally ending up back at his church.

I played a concert there around 6:00 pm and we had a wonderful time together. Eliezer interpreted for me. Another very gracious family, Daniel, Lorela, and their 10 year old daughter Greyson Ungunreanu, took me home with them for the evening. Lorela is going to have their second daughter ANY DAY now. They are from Romania and have been here about a year. We had such a wonderful visit and shared an incredible meal together. Daniel and I stayed up until about 2 am, visiting and enjoying fellowship.

This morning (Sunday) we went back to church and had another wonderful time of worship. I played a few songs, we sang, read from the Bible, then Daniel translated for me as people got up and shared something that God has been teaching them, or a prayer request. We closed by partaking of the Lord’s Supper together, and then I actually got the last word and song (I had to come all the way to Spain to get the last word).

It was an extraordinary time for me to relax and reflect as I begin to process this incredible journey. I can already see how much God has changed me in only in only 10 days. When I arrived here all I could see was our different EVERYTHING is here especially the way we “do” church, and the difficulties each of our country’s face in trying to spread the gospel. This morning, as I sat, breaking bread with brother’s and sister’s in a “far away” land, God began opening my eyes and heart in such a way that allowed me to begin to notice all of our similarities. I will continue to ponder those things and blog about them, but this morning I tried to cherish those moments as simply as He revealed them.

Right now, my heart truly aches to look upon the faces of Jennifer and Matthew. My body thirsts to feel their embrace. I have definitely felt the separation on this trip as the time differences and the lack of being able to retrieve my emails have not allowed me to talk to them very often. I do look forward to seeing all of the people that I’m used to seeing in my normal day to day life, but there is also a slight sadness in my spirit. I have made many friends in Spain. The Dixon’s have made me feel at home and I have been in need of nothing while I have been here. I have met so many wonderful people who have invited me into their homes and hearts – knowing I’m from America and we have so little in common. I have friends in Spain now, and I may never have the opportunity to be in the same room with them again on this side of heaven.

When I’m traveling around the United States, particularly when I’m not in the South, I often try to point out in my concerts that even though we have differences, we are still brothers and sisters. As I sat across the table in Toledo, Spain fellowshipping with the Ungureanu’s and as Eliezer and Virginia were driving me back to the Dixon’s and I thought about their stories and felt their passion for God and seeing glimpses of their spiritual journeys, that truth has never been more evident. There is absolutely NOTHING that can make barriers of race, language, and culture, completely disappear OTHER THAN the saving grace and relationship to God through Jesus Christ.

When I stood up to share what would be the last song that I would play in Spain, I thought I had picked it because it was the only one I hadn’t played at this church that was translated into Spanish (real spiritual process – I know). God always works way ahead of me. That song was Doxologia “The Doxology” (Praise God, from whom all blessings flow…” This song became our song of worship and my prayer for the Christians in Spain. I told them to please accept it as my prayer for them – not from my country to theirs, but from my heart to their hearts as brother’s and sister’s. It was a good day and has been a good trip!

Whether we look upon one another’s faces in Spain or in America – we can know for sure that we WILL see one another again – we will sing “Praise God from whom all blessings flow in unity again.”

In His Grip!
Cliff

Saturday in Spain (Friday for most of you!)

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Yesterday (Friday ) was another day full of wonderful surprises and new eye opening experiences. I played a concert during the chapel service at the Evangelical Christian Academy. It is an English-speaking American school. Almost all of the students in that school are missionary kids. Out of all of the groups of people in which I have had the opportunity to share this ministry, I have never sensed an immediate bond such as did yesterday. Nervous? Sure! After all, I am a PK, I now how we think. When I first got up to play – I felt like a target, but they feeling quickly subsided as the students stood and began to sing with me. There are things about being raised in a Minister’s family that can’t be described or understood by anyone else on the planet. Empathize as you might, but you will never get there. It’s unique for every family, and the kids tend to also express it uniquely, but we feel it much the same.

When I arrived here, and was told about this opportunity, I have spent much time asking God to mold my heart and my compassion for them in a relevant manner. The students and I seemed to agree that while there are benefits to being raised in a Minister’s family, there are also a few downsides to it as well. I don’t feel compelled to re-harsh those with you, but we shared many laughs regarding those. Through the years, I have shared my testimony in many different ways, but yesterday morning, God impressed upon to share parts of it that I have never shared. It was one of the most special opportunities that God has ever given me in this ministry, and I will cherish it forever.

The teachers who teach at Evangelical Christian Academy are mostly independent missionaries. They raise ALL of their salary and expenses on their own in order to get to come here and teach. Can you think of any reason to explain why anyone would take on all of that other than the power of God’s call? Some of them spend years in the states trying to drum up enough monthly support to be able to move their family’s over here so that they can teach missionary kids. Some of the teachers not only teach, but they also serve as house parents to the students who are boarding. These teachers are investing into the lives of these kids as a ministry unto God.

All of the students were gracious, and very well mannered. They participated well, singing wholeheartedly on every song. Even when I was talking, they were listening (or at least looking at me). I feel as though God gave me very special blessing in giving me the opportunity to be in the presence of those young people. If you want to know more about their school check out their website www.ecaspain.org

After we left the school the Dixon’s got me on another bus to go downtown again. I told them that it sure seems to me like they are constantly “sending me away.” Not to worry though, I’m like a dog – I seem to somehow keep finding my way back. I met up with Tim again and he and I meet up with another Tim from the IMB – Tim Wilson. We went to “Lavapies” (interpreted “to wash feet) which is located in another section of downtown Madrid. Years ago it was a large Jewish community and that is when it was named, as I understand it.

In this three block area there are 90 different nationalities represented, and a very large Muslim population. Tim Wilson and his wife, Amber, have two children Levi, and David. They have been here over 2 years working in the Muslim community. They set up a coffee and tea table with all kinds of literature on the table next the tea. As people walk by, Tim and his friends offer tea and coffee to them – this is how they make their contact with the people. This is just one of the ministries in which they are involved. The are wanting to eventually start a church in this area, but the doors have not opened for that yet. I will tell you more about this when I get back to the States and learn more about it myself.

I was more of an observer with the street ministry, because it was a different kind of evangelism in a different kind of area. While I was there, I met a man who is in his upper 60’s who is also an independent missionary from DeLeon, Texas, can you believe it? I have played at FBC DeLeon before and Tim Melton had lived near there as well. Archie Stone, was the gentleman’s name. He has been here for many years, and he just wanders the streets carrying tracks and passing them out to people as he goes through the city. I was grateful that God allowed our paths to cross in Spain.

After the street ministry 4 of us went to a culture eating place in Lavapies. I don’t remember the name of the place, but the food was cuisine from Semegal, Africa. Semegal is a French speaking country in Western Africa. I would have to search long and hard to find ways to describe the food, but for now “interesting” will have to suffice.

I have taken in so much in my time here. It will take me a long time to assimilate all of it. If I don’t get to post another blog before I leave I will continue my blogs regarding this trip when I return home. I will continue including as much information about what I am experiencing here because regardless of all the things I don’t know, I am certain that God will use my Spain experiences to continue to shape my life and ministry. I am equally certain that he may want to use some of these experiences to shape your life and ministry as well. Spain is a mission field and though much is being done to further the gospel here, there is still much to do. There are things that each one of us can do to help. Better worded - God can use each one of us to help. There may be a way for God to use something from my time here to get someone else into this field – it could be you. There are ministries here that are worthy and could greatly benefit from your financial support. All of these ministries covet your prayer support – each of us can pray for the work that is being done here. I will try to be diligent when I return to the states to include specific prayer requests for the work and the people here.

If there is any information in any of these blog posts that you would like me to elaborate on – even the funny stuff. Please email me cliffhackler@cliffhackler.com I would love to be a resource for you, even if it is only to satisfy your own curiosity.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Another "Cliff Thing"

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

I’m not sure how many more blogs I will get to post while I’m in Spain beause I will be spending Saturday evening and Sunday morning in Toledo, which is about an hour from Madrid. I will be with a couple who are Seminary students and have a new church plant there. I will be brought back to Alcala Sunday afternoon. Keep checking my blog page you never know when a new entry will pop up OR if you haven’t already, you can subscribe to the RSS feed and it will let you know when a new entry has been posted.

Yesterday was another relaxing day for me and another opportunity to get into the culture a little more. David and Susie went to the Seminary to teach their classes, Michael went to school and they were all gone when I woke up. Dixie, of course, could hardly wait until I got up. I went down for my coffee and she came over to let me know that she was ready for her walk whenever I became ready. She and I went out to check the weather, although I was pretty sure she had already been out once. When we got back I did a little work and then got ready to catch the bus into downtown to meet Tim again.

On my way to downtown, I had another one of those “Cliff” experiences. While I was waiting on my bus (the green one – not the red one) another bus came by and dropped some people off. This Spanish speaking older gentleman came off of that bus and was talking to a lady who was also coming off. They were talking about the bus schedules and pointing, and he was clearly trying to find out which bus he needed to take in order to get wherever it was that he was wanting to go. He walked across the street to the other bus stop, and another bus came by. It must not have been the one he needed because when that bus departed he was still on the curb. He came over to me and started talking. I was about to do the “No habla Espano” thing but from his gestures and a word or two, I knew what he was asking. I had read the stops that my bus was going to be making, and I heard him say the name of one of those stops, so I gestured and said, “Si – Si,” letting him know that this bus would get him there. He thanked me and I felt proud of myself, but then he kept talking to me as if I spoke Spanish. I nodded along and became a very active listener. I saw our bus coming so I stepped back a little and pointed to the bus. When I got onto the bus I handed the bus driver my money and said, “Avenida de America,” with my best Spanish accent (I had been practicing while I was waiting on the bus).

I took my seat and even though there were plenty of other seats my new friend came over and sat next to me so that we could continue our conversation. Have you ever been in a situation where someone comes up to you and starts talking, and they think you know them, and you are probably suppose to, but you can’t place them? You know how you think if you keep talking with them it will come back to you, but it doesn’t. In all of the time that you spent trying to remember, you missed that little window where it is okay to ask them their name. Well, I kind of felt like that. He thought I spoke Spanish because I sort of acted like I could, but I missed the window where I felt comfortable telling him that I don’t speak Spanish. He was really enjoying talking to me, so I just continued on with my charade. I knew that he was telling me what a difficult time he was having getting to where he needed to go, so I nodded a lot with a, “Ci, Ci” and “no” and a “hmmm” as empathically as I could for a good while. After one of the stops I knew we had one more stop and then we would be at his. I was in too deep now so I said, “Uno mas parada” (“one more stop”). He nodded and continued talking, and then sure enough as we approach he spotted a building that he was looking for, and knew he was where he wanted to go. He thanked me and we exchanged departure phrases and he exited. I took a deep breath and prayed no one else on the bus wanted to talk to me. It felt good to help someone find their way in this country for a change.

Tim and I hopped another bus and went to the church to disciple a young man. Then we caught another bus that took us to the subway (called the metro), and we ended up in his favorite part of Madrid, “Plaza de Mayor.” During the Spanish Inquisition, it was believed that “The Church – Catholic Church was the means to salvation. So they would gather up Christians and take them to the Plaza de Mayor and torture them unto belief and repentance. If they didn’t repent - they died. It was beautiful plaza, very ornate much like all of Madrid. We ate supper there and hopped onto the metro again and went to an apartment for a cell group Bible study. Raul and Nadine hosted the group in their apartment. It was a wonderful evening of Bible study and prayer.

Tim got me back to the train station and I caught a train that would take me back to Alcala. Then I enjoyed a nice walk back to the Dixon’s where Dixie was happy to greet me.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Forever Live the King!

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Yesterday (Wednesday), I had the opportunity to play a concert during chapel at the Spanish Baptist Theological Seminary in Madrid. David had to leave early to teach his classes, so Susie and I drove to the Seminary around 10. I was very impressed with the Seminary and especially the students. There was a class meeting in the chapel we arrived, so Susie took me on a quick tour of the campus. The campus consists of a very large 3 or 4 story building. Every inch (centimeter in these parts), was utilized to his full potential. The basement level was where most of the classrooms were located. The next level were the offices and I think a couple of more classrooms. The next floor or two above that was student housing. I use the word “housing” loosely. A very nice lady who was a student’s wife offered to show me her apartment. It was no bigger than 10’ X 15’. In that space was a bathroom, closet, kitchen, desk, and a sofa that also acted as THE bed. A student, his wife, and a cute little girl about 4 years old lived in that room. I believe they said 45 students lived on campus.

At the beginning of Chapel we read scripture together, prayed, and sang, all of course, in Spanish. It was moving to hear the passion with which those 50 or so believer’s presented their offering of worship to God. David introduced me and translated for me. David is a great translator (I assume), and I’m learning more about how to speak in a such a way that I can be translated. It is a little scary when you say something and the translator looks at you and asks you to try it another way – Yikes! The rhythm isn’t a big deal – you just pause where you normally would, but you can’t use a lot of slang unless the translator is also familiar with the slang. David knows the slang so that makes it easy. I didn’t realize until this week exactly how much slang I use and how much I depend on it. Another “rule” is that you don’t look at the translator, but at the people to which you are talking.

The people at the Seminary received me graciously. They all eagerly participated by singing along. Before I came to Spain, I translated the words that appear on my DVDs into Spanish. They were able to sing along in their language. As I looked across that room and saw the hunger for Christ in the those students’ faces, I knew in my heart the Spain is going to be okay - the gospel will definitely continue to go forth in Spain. I felt tremendously humbled and honored to get to worship God with my Spanish brother’s and sister’s.

Spain is often referred to as the “Kingdom of Spain” – while we were singing “Luz del Mundo” (“Light of the World” or as we know it “Here I Am to Worship.”) The second verse really spoke to me as it says, “King of all days, Oh, so highly exalted, Glorious in heave above, Humbly You came to the earth You created, All for love’s sake became poor.” While I played and their singing grew stronger as we began the chorus, I thought in my heart, “Forever, live the KING!”

Today (Thursday) I will be going to downtown Madrid again via the bus. I will meet up with Tim again and he will show me his favorite part of the city, and then I will join one of his cell groups for a Bible Study. Tomorrow morning (Friday), I will be playing a concert at Michael’s school.

Continue to keep me in your prayers – please, and I will keep you updated as I can.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Taking It All In

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Yesterday was a day for me to sort of relax and catch up with myself. I have had a difficult time adjusting to the time difference. My “normal” sleep/rest schedule is so erratic that I didn’t think adjusting to the time change here would be that big of a deal. I don’t know how long jet-lag is supposed to last, but I’m still not quite adjusted. I’m pretty used to limited sleep time in the States on the long weekends and trips that I take with this ministry. I figured after flying through the night to get here I could stay up the rest of the day and then I would be ready for bed. I thought that would put me on the Spain schedule, but my body knows it is American. I can’t seem to get to sleep until around 4 or 5. I do get to sleep later as things here get started later than they do in the States. Though I haven’t adjusted to time change, I haven’t felt tired, worn out, or sleepy either.

It was quite easy not sleeping on the flight over her – there was so much to do on the plane. They have individual TV screens right in front of you. You can pick out a movie or TV show to watch, you can play games, and you can even watch your flight – complete with maps and a little airplane to show where you are, where you are going, altitude, temperature… lots of buttons – I lost a lot of time with that.

The day gets going here a little later than the in the States. Lunch and Siesta is around 2 or 3 – most all the stores close for this (except McDonalds), and then they open back up around 4 or 5 and they stay open until around 11:00 pm. Supper is anywhere between 9:00 and 11:00 pm. If you interpret the later times to mean things are slower here you are sadly mistaken.

So far I typically get in my room around midnight. It is the only thing on the third floor – I call it “the loft” soon to be renamed “The Cliff Hackler Memorial Suite When He is in Spain.” David was teaching his Seminary class yesterday and Susie was cooking and baking – per usual. She also teaches several Bible studies as well as a class at the Seminary, so she was working on some of those things. Michael was in school and Dixie had already taken me for a walk, so I decided to explore for a while.

Alcala is a city of about 100,000 people. Cities here are very compact, meaning, every inch of land has something on it and it is usually at least 3 stories tall – shops on the bottom and living quarters above. Trains, buses, and very small cars are modes of getting around, but the most popular is method is walking. Susie gave me a map and pointed me in the direction of the city and I took off. Enjoying the sound of my feet hitting the ground, a cool breeze on my face, sporting a borrowed scarf around my neck (feeling all European again), I passed a University, the trains, and enter the edge of downtown. I didn’t want to have to pull the map out (that would make me look like a tourist or maybe a target) so I kept walking.

The more deeply I descended into the heart of the city, the more people were walking around me. I decided to just go along and see where they were all going. Before long I was walking at a pretty fast clip with a lot of other people (with my scarf and fast walk, I was blending right in). I am sure that I was the only one in the crowd that had no place to be, but I sure acted like I did. I learned some rules about walking when I was with Tim the other night in Madrid. For example, if a crosswalk has a “walk/don’t walk” light then the light rules. If there no such light the pedestrians rule. Yesterday I learned it really doesn’t matter. If you just step out – most of the time cars generally stop. My crowd and I walked through some plaza areas with huge Cathedrals and lots of shops, and somewhere along the way – I lost my crowd. I figured that I had led them to wherever they needed to go. I kept walking. By this time, I was on a mission – my mission now was to gather another crowd and I did. I kept walking and again people joined me and apparently I led them to their destinations as well or maybe I was walking too fast for them. I had taken notice of statues, intersections, and particular buildings so I was never lost – really, I wasn’t. The more I walked, the more comfortable I got with being out there on my own. Oh sure, I had the occasional panhandler approach me, but I would just kept walking (slightly faster) and tell them, in Spanish, that I didn’t understand or speak Spanish. I still feel weird about speaking their language to tell them I don’t speak their language. It was a very nice afternoon of exploring and experiencing life in Spain at least a little and yes, I did make it home just fine.

We had an early supper with two of Michael’s friend from his high school. Corbin’s Dad has been a missionary her about 15 years. They came from Sherman, Texas. Joshua is from Korea. His parents were here for a little while and went back to Korea. Joshua is trying to finish school here. The Dixon’s have had guests every day that I have been with them so far. They are truly international folks. We had a lot fun with Joshua. He is trying to learn the names of the States from Madden football. Think about it – it would be hard because some the of the States have more than one football team and others don’t have any. And then there’s the Redskin’s, from D.C. – not a State. Plus, he was getting baseball and basketball teams in the mix. He has most of the animal ones down pretty good – dolphins, lions, eagles, and of course THE DALLAS COWBOYS!

I witnessed what would have been THE perfect “you tube” moment. The guys were hanging out in Michaels room. Michael had something in there they looked sort of like a plunger. Joshua was fiddling with it as they chatted. Eventually, Joshua, did the inevitable. He had positioned the plunger around his chin and mouth and then he suck the air out of the empty space and it created enough suction for him to let go of the handle. After feeling like he had invented the light bulb he looked at Michael and Corbin as if to say, “Hey, look!” At this point he sort of looked like a Korean anteater. I saw it coming… Corbin and Michael looked at him as if to say, “Good for you.” Then they looked at each other again and you could see what was about to happen register with Joshua because his eyes stated getting big when finally in one quick swipe, Corbin reach up grabbed the hand and YANKED on it. Sure enough the release of suction created the desired “POP!” Joshua bent over holding his mouth with a hearty, “ahhhhhhhhh!” And we all had a great laugh. I can’t even begin to do justice in describing it, but I assure you that I will NEVER look at a plunger without thinking about that and laughing.

We had a great supper and then Susie asked me to play something for the boys before they went home. It was the only playing gig I had yesterday, but for the entertainment that they brought me – I felt I owed them that much. They all go to the school that I will be playing at on Friday.

More tomorrow…

In His Grip!
Cliff

From the Streets of Madrid

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Prior to coming to Spain, David and I had exchanged several emails pertaining to itinerary, weather, sound needs... Jennifer, Matthew, and I were in the living room and I had printed some of the emails and was going through them trying to synergize all of the information. Jennifer and I were discussing the content of the emails. She was thinking in terms of the clothes she would need to pack for me, while I was trying to determine repertoire. Then I read a line from David\'s email that said, "Looking over your schedule, I think most of the places you will be playing will have what you need except for when you are playing on the streets of Madrid (emphasis mine) and in that case it will be just you and your saxophone..." Matthew was lying on the couch watching TV and half listening to Jennifer and my discussion. When I read that line I slowed down trying to remember when/if I had seen "streets of Madrid" on my itinerary. While I was looking back over the itinerary for that "gig," Matthew still looking at the TV began to chuckle, and the more he thought about it and pictured it, the more funny it became to him, until finally he had broken into an all-out, bend over giggle. It was one of those great memorable family moments for us.

Last night was that event on my itinerary; it was called "Puerta del Sol." It was an incredible experience. All I knew was that this "gig" was completely separate from the Baptist work and my understanding was that it was an independent ministry. I have to confess that I was prepared for anything. I knew that it was in the center of a high traffic area and I was ready to go down there, take my horn out, and stand there and play as Spanish speaking Christians walked around talking to people or whatever they do. It was nothing like that - although that would have been fine, what really happened was waaaaay more effective.

David was meeting with a cell group from his church last night, so Tim Melton was my guide/translator/baby sitter for the evening. Tim is from the States and has been here for almost one year as the associate pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church (the one I play at Sunday). He is a great guy and is still transitioning into this culture. This was going to be Tim\'s first experience with this evangelistic team as well, so that made both of us "newbies." David and I rode the bus to meet Tim downtown and then I walked real fast with Tim and hopped from subway to subway carrying my tenor saxophone (the big one). We were all walking fast and I had no idea why. I even asked Tim why everyone was in hurry he said they were just catching trains trying to get home. If you miss your train you have to wait for the next one. On the escalators, if you are just gonna ride it you stand to the right so that people can run up or down beside you. It was invigorating - could make a guy with ADD a little hyper.

There is a Missionary group who has been in Spain for over 20 years and they have this incredible street evangelistic ministry that has been going on for 6 years. We meet up with one of the leaders, Kevin Prevost, and a team of participants above the McDonald\'s (they really are everywhere) in Puerta del Sol. Every night participants meet around 7 for prayer and then go down to the streets around 8. We all walked down to the plaza with a red box that is about two feet long, one and a half feet wide, and about one and a half feet tall - with wheels and a handle. We set the little box in the middle of the plaza near a statue, and formed a semi circle around the box to create a small crowd while people - lots of people walked around shopping, visiting, roaming the streets for a stroll. It was organized into sets. Someone would stand on the box and play music to draw a crowd. There was a lady there that played a lively guitar and sang. Then someone would preach real loud for about 5 minutes while someone else stood by the box and translated. If the speaking was in Spanish it was tranlated into English and vice versa. Then someone would share their testimony (and have it translated). Then the speaker would announce that there was a free booklet with more information and at that point people from our team would raise the booklet up in the air so that people could come get one and talk to someone if they wanted. We would thing mingle and get ready for another set. It was very organized and very effective and a great spot. Not all of the people roaming those streets are Spaniards. There are also tourist there from all over the world.

Yes, I had my turn on "the box." It was quite cold so as soon as I got it out of the case I stood on the little box and played as loudly as I could (brought back memories from high school band marching days). Then when a crowd formed I stopped playing and began to yell my testimony. As loudly as I could I told them that I came to Madrid from Dallas, Texas, in the United States of America to tell them about the most important relationship in my life... I told them (real loud) my testimony and how Christ changed my life forever. I think there were 4 sets in all, and I got to play twice on "the box."

Tim had his turn too. This was a little out of the norm for him too, but he was awesome! There was also a young lady there who gave her testimony saying that 2 years before she was feeling empty and alone and was walking through that very spot when she learned about Jesus from "the box." She went on to tell the difference He has made in her life and that is no longer empty nor alone. Afterwards, we went back to the room and had coffee and cookies with some of the team.

I strongly encourage you to take a moment and go check out the website for that ministry www.kilometrocero.net You can read how it started - great story and you can see the results and pictures. It is a ministry worthy of your prayers. They are doing a lot of good for God in Madrid.

Tim and I hopped on a couple of more subways and then he helped me get a train ticket to get back to Alcala, where the Dixon\'s live. I enjoyed the train ride thinking about the Kilometro Cero. I also couldn\'t resist sending Jennifer a text message telling her to tell Matthew that I had played on "the streets of Madrid" and it was awesome!

In His Grip!
Ciff

Hola!

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Catching up on the Mission Trip!

After stuffing myself with the usual Thanksgiving turkey and 'fixins' on Thursday, I made it to the airport Friday morning for my departure. I had a quick up and down flight to Atlanta. It was more like an elaborate elevator ride than a flight. I then caught my connecting flight to Spain, and had a rather uneventful flight to Madrid. I like "uneventful" when it comes to flying. I was flying Delta, but there was an American Airline pilot sitting next to me on the Dallas to Atlanta flight. He and I made small talk and talked about our destinations - he was "dead heading" to his home Atlanta, me to Madrid. He was interested in Spain, but had never been. When they were doing the "oxygen mask" speech, I said, "I get the l 'life vest/flotation device'" speech on my flight to Spain but tell me truth though... if we go down in the ocean those things really won't come into play will they?" He just sort of grinned/grimaced and shook his head "no" as if I had discovered some sort of top-secret information.

After going through customs and baggage, I met up with Bro. David Dixon - my pastor, guide, translator, and host for the week. David and Susie have three sons - two grown and one in high school. They also have a precious little dog named, Dixie. Yes her name is Dixie Dixon and we have become great friends. The Dixons have lived and worked in the mission field in Spain for 20 years. They are a wonderful family and gracious hosts.

Yesterday (Sunday) was a day filled with incredible adventures and many firsts. David is the Pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church, an International Church. They hold two services each Sunday one at around 10:30 and the other around 1:00, with Bible Studies, choir practice and such in between.

I have never seen anything like this! We all dream of a day when people from every nation will gather to worship our incredible God. We did that yesterday! There were around 350 people in attendance and some 35 to 40 different NATIONS represented. The services were in English, and it was great having everyone speak English and even better that everyone spoke it with a different accent - not just me.

We came back home for lunch between 3:30 and 4:00 and then Bro. David took me to First Baptist Madrid - a Spanish speaking body of believers in downtown Madrid. We sang "Ring the Bells of Heaven" straight out of the Spanish Baptist Hymnal. I told David later that it was interesting to me that except for the language, that First Baptist Church looked and felt like any First Baptist Church in anywhere county seat Bible Belt USA! I played some songs, shared briefly with them (David translated), and then made a quick exit. David stayed behind and finished the service there while a gracious couple (I'm guessing Carlos and Maria) transported me back to Immanuel Baptist Church with the car ride of my life.

Until yesterday, I was pretty sure that two objects could NOT occupy the same space. All I know is we needed some other occupied space from time to time and as we began to edge over, I would put my hands over my eyes and wait to hear glass breaking. After a few seconds, I would peek through my fingers and sure enough apparently we were sharing a space - there is no other explanation for it. Everyone was doing it. You could tell who the foreigners were - they were the ones using their blinkers. I made one other interesting observation during the ride. "Carlos" and "Maria" don't speak any English and I don't speak Spanish, but we still managed to communicate in a disjunctive conversation using single words and pointing or motioning in some manner (really I guess it was more like charades), but it worked for us. I noticed that they chatted nicely back and forth, as a Bob Dylan song played on the radio in Spanish, seriously. Apparently, "Maria" was questioning the route "Carlos" had chosen. He would respond with a nonchalant tone and a simple wave of the arm (probably pointing out his options). Trust me, language was no barrier - I understood exactly what he was saying. I also noticed that at several intersections she would say something and point to the right - Carlos would go left. She would point at the under ground tunnel - Carlos would turn to stay on the street. Some things truly are universal.

We made it back to Immanuel Baptist Church where there was a concert in progress by a Spanish speaking choir that sang black south gospel music. I recognized several of the songs they sang - "Just a Closer Walk With Thee, I Must Tell Jesus" and "My God is Real." They worked hard to mimic the black gospel choirs of the South, and did it incredibly well. I played a mini-concert and had great time with them as well.

Yesterday (Sunday) was a great day of worship in Madrid! I know this blog entry is lengthy, but it was a full day and one of the busiest that I will have while I'm here. I will try to keep you posted as I can the rest of the week. From what I understand, today (Monday) I will be joining an Evangelistic team on the streets of downtown, Madrid to play and draw a crowd while people share Christ with gatherers. Keep me in your prayers. Look for my blog tomorrow. Remember, we are 7 hours ahead of Dallas, time.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Destinado por España (Destined for Spain)

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

The time has arrived and as we always say, "Ready or not..." We have had a few months to see this coming I have made every possible preparation that I can make. David Dixon, the IMB missionary that has been putting this together and I have been communicating more frequently about details as the date approaches. I am truly excited about this adventure and the tremendous opportunity to be used as an instrument in the hands of our Creator. And I feel incredibly honored to have the opportunity to serve along side one of our own missionaries in the Kingdom of Spain.

I will be leaving Friday afternoon from DFW and arriving in Madrid, Saturday morning. I have updated my calendar page with the "tentative" itinerary of my tirp. There have already been a couple of changes to the itinerary and I'm fairly certain there will be more as we go. I am going with a desire to share in whatever arena the Lord opens up to us while I'm there. I will do my best to update this as I can while there and communicate any changes to John say that you can keep tabs on the trip.

My website will serve as a central way for anyone who wishes to be able to see where I will be going and what my ministry will be each day. Many of you have said that you would pray for this trip - I have to tell you that I am counting on that. I will try to blog while I'm there (more than I do when I'm in the States). The plan is that I or John will be putting something up on the site daily and you have to remember that I will be about 7 hours ahead of Texas time while I'm in Spain. I love this because you all know how long and how hard I have worked to "get ahead." (Sorry!)

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Cliff

Blogcast 22

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

"Going Home"

I thought I had already loaded this blogcast. It was supposed to have been up before the "Salsa Test" (Blogcast 23), but I somehow didn't get it on the site or it didn't load properly.

This is the blogcast of me driving home from the Wyoming/South Dakota tour. It is completely silly and outrages footage of what happens when you are simply on the road too long. I hope you enjoy it.

Cliff

Blogcast 23

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

"The Salsa Taste Test"

I am sooooo sorry this took so long to get up on the site. I was slow about getting it done, but even after I shot it, and got it edited, and ready to upload, I had some computer issues to work through. Now that it is fixed we are ready to go.

I was set up! My friend, Mark Hensley, nonchalantly suggested that I do a salsa taste test and I thought - "That's a good idea." Per Mark's suggestion I solicited anyone who desired to participate to send me a salsa and video me tasting the different salsa's and giving my opinion (I love to give my opinion on stuff). As soon as I agreed and announced it I got a salsa in the mail from North Carolina. Mark had gone online to find the hottest salsa that he could and had it sent to me (it was made in Texas but sent from North Carolina). I did get two other ones in the mail to test as well. Anyway, I had Matthew and Jennifer help me with this blogcast since we all have slightly different tastes. It is shot from our kitchen in Midlothian.

It is a little longer than the 10 minute deal I shoot for, but I think you will enjoy it. It takes about 16 minutes to watch.

In the next week or so I will be shooting a catch chat with my friend John.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogs or Catch-ups?

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

For the last month or so number 1 on my list of "Things to do THIS Week" has been WRITE BLOG. It's not that I haven't gotten anything on that list completed every single week, it's just that WRITE BLOG keeps getting pushed down farther and farther. If there is anything that can be said about me it is that I never give up. I'm thinking I'll just change the name of blog entries to "Catch-up." I keep several things rolling around in my head (not marbles) every week of things to write about, but by the time I sit down to blog I end up having to catch you up in order for anything to make sense. So, here is a story or two and a catch up on all fronts of this minsitry and my life.

You may have already read John's blog on the news page, but he did a great job of catching you up on the Spain front. I have exchanged some emails with Bro. and Mrs. Dixon in Madrid, who are the missionaries that are putting this together. My travel to and from Spain is being sponsored by Pastor Mike Barrera and United Baptist Church in Laredo, Texas. I could spend an entire blog (and I intend to) telling you about this incredible church. I am still in the process of translating my DVD's into spanish, and I am trying to pick up as much spanish as I can before I go over there. Please keep this trip and all the people that I have mentioned regarding this trip in your prayers. I really appreciate and covet your prayers in this endeavor.

On my way from South Carolina to home a few weeks ago, I had another fender-bender. After driving through the night and making great time (going the speed limit), when the sun came up I was nearing Shreveport. I was talking to Jennifer on the phone letting her know that I had made it through the night and was almost to the Texas line. The morning traffic slowed as did I and the 18 wheeler in front of me, but I was watching my rearview mirror and the lady driving a sports Infiniti (oh yea big bucks) watching also talking on the phone, but apparantly not watching the traffic (like I was). The last thing I saw in my rearview mirror before feeling the bump and hearing the smack was the young ladys eyes getting REAAAAALLLLY Big. No one was hurt and it didn't cost me anything so I was grateful on both accounts.

While my car was being repaired I was put into a Dodge Caliber for a "loan" car. It was cute little thing. It looked sort of like if it were to "grow up" it would become a PT Cruiser. Anyway, as loan cars go they are very base models - no power anything except stearing...if you are lucky.

I was driving Matthew to Tae Kwon Do in the little car and he was looking around getting used to the new ride and checking things out. Then he kept looking around on the door at said, "How do I get the window down?" I thought this is gonna be fun. I said, "it's right there" as I pointed in the direction of the "roll down" handle. He looked at it sort of puzzled and scrunched up his face and said, "Huh?" I laughed really hard for a long time and of course he started laughing and then I got kind of sad realizing that there is a generation coming up that has never heard "roll down the window!"

I may not get a blogcast up this week, but I do have a list and on that list is "SHOOT BLOGCAST." I am going to shoot the salsa taste test blogcast and get that up soon. So do give up on me.

Cliff

Blogcast 21

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Wyoming and Dakota Ministries"

First of all, I apologize about the delay in getting this blogcast up on the site. My travels and the fall schedule has been a little rough and I have fallen behind in several things, including keeping up with my website.

I feel that I need to set this blogcast up properly. This one is not meant to be entertaining or a lot of fun and light-hearted like many of the previous ones, but I feel compelled to air it because of that very reason. Normally, my postings are just to laugh at myself and the predicaments that I end up in and how I deal with being ADD and stuck in a car for hours on end... I wouldn't want anyone to think that my life and this ministry is ALL fun and games. That would be a completely wrong assumption. The very heart and purpose of this ministry is to reach people for Christ and to encourage believer's all over the country through music, humor and whatever other resource God puts into my hands.

In this blogcast I try to share with you what the ministries in Wyoming and the Dakota's are really like. This includes the innovative methods they use to reach people for Christ and the challenges they have in doing that in their regions. I know there are many people who live in the "Bible Belt" that have a heart for pioneer missions and ministries. If God can use this blogcast to stir those desires in your heart again and you or your church would be interested in partnering with ministries in that region, I would love to help connect you for such an opportunity

While this blogcast is not very entertaining - let me warn you that next week is waaaaay entertaining. Matthew is trying to talk me out of airing it. It is my trip home - let's just say I was a little tired.

This blogcast is 7:02 in length

Blogcast 20

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Leaving Wyoming"

After a wonderful polishing off five concerts the last day of my trip to Wyoming and South Dakota, I point my car towards Texas. After summarizing the day we begin the journey home. We get to count stripes on the highway, have a beef jerky bienge, and do an energy drink test.

This Blogcast is 7:48 in length

Cliff

Blogcast 19

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Wild Horse, Football, and Ministry"

This blogcast the Saturday through Sunday afternoon before heading home Sunday night. You can see and hear about the wild horses I got see in Wyoming, hear about Mark and my video football games, and get a run down on a very busy and wonderful Sunday. As usual I share one of those talking before thinking things - in the prison nonetheless.

This blogcast will take 10:10 to view.

Cliff

Blogcast 18

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"A Good Place for a Stephen King Novel, The Eyebrow guy, Another little Test, and Finding Mark"

Still in Wyoming on my way from end to the other with a little time to "kill" in between, I found an interesting little place to bed down for the night. I try to describe a guy who was apparently trying to start a new fashion trend. I found another little test to sort check in on while on the road, and then I finally hook up with my friend, Mark Hensley. I realize that most of what I just described was in the title, but I had to write something about it. I think you will enjoy this one and for the record "I was never afraid!"

This blogcast will take 9:57 to view.

Cliff

It's More Than A Song...

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

You know me let someone else do the thinking part. I have tossed around several idea's about this blog and decided to go with the creative title that John came up with for his article on my website (with a slight twist). I don't think its plagiarism if you say you're plagerising...is it?

I thought about telling you about some of the new things coming up for this ministry in the Fall, or perhaps telling you this truly incredible story that happened to Jennifer this week - a necklace that has been missing from the family for over 20 years is now back in the family, and I have to interject that we figured out that though the necklace was ALL about her family - the only reason it is BACK in her family is because of MEEEEEEEE!!! Can you believe it! I will tell that story soon, but for now I'm just still not believing it - just truly amazing. I thought about just being "real" with you and talking about the difficult week I've had. Though being "real" with you is not an issue for me, writing about it would probably only be therapeutic for me and would not be worth your reading time. I thought about writing something about the Olympics - lots of material there and analogies with the Christian life, but now that I've sat down I decided to write about one of the new songs that Darren and I have been working on.

No artist is going to put forth the effort to record a song that doesn't help him say something that he really feels driven to say. Even fun, light-hearted, songs done for the shear enjoyment of them have to be "fun" enough to commit to the process. And oh yea, we are working on a fun one now. The first NEW song that Darren and I have worked up is called "Who Am I." Most of you have heard it done by Casting Crowns. The words and idea's mostly plagiarized straight from scripture (just kidding), there is something about the marriage, if you will, of the lyric and the music, for this song that just made my heart weep the very first time I heard it. What is really weird about that is that I couldn't tell whether my heart wept out of sadness, or joy, or whatever emotion in between. You see, I'm a guy and identifying emotions is not something we practice, and so we're not that good at it.

Now that Darren and I have pretty much finished this song - complete with vocals, sax, and video, I have to tell you that I still can't directly identify why this song effects me the way it does except to say that "It's more than just a song to me." Although it doesn't say anything that I don't know and haven't heard, for some reason I hear God trying to remind me of Himself through it in ways that I've not experienced in a long time. This songs strikes the core of my struggles and victories in sooooo many ways. It is interesting to me that the few times I have included it in one of my recent concerts, the comments I get about it, though positive, are so varied. People tell me what they see and hear in that song and the video, and it amazes me how differently people relate to it. It stirs different thoughts and emotions in different people and the interpretation of what they see and hear is quite different. It seems to be "more than a song to alot of people" I can hardly wait for it's release.

I have decided to release it on itunes soon. You will be able to download the video and audio from my website through itunes soon. I will let you know when that happens. I am excitedly anxious to see what you think about it.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 17

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Dakota Ministies and Am I Lost? You Make the Call"

In this blog cast I am on my way from South Dakota to Rock Springs, Wyoming. I will share with you some of the creative ways that Dakota Baptist reach people for Christ. I also show you a couple of new caps , and surprise, surprise, I think I get off the map a little and have to call my friend Craig Piller. After talking with him and getting onto the correct road I basically discover that I was really right all along... or was I?

This blogcast last for 9:02 - I think you will find it informative and entertaining.

Cliff

Blogcast 16

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Yet Another Most Embarrassing Moment and Other Stuff"

After previewing this blogcast for posting, to remind myself of its content, I realized that by the title you may have a difficult time figuring out which moment I was referring to as my "most" embarrassing - the one I tell you about or the incident you witness. This blogcast takes place on the Sunday afternoon of the Wyoming/South Dakota Tour. I tell about a most embarrassing moment, you get to see a typical forgetful moment and recovery (the incidident you witness happens too often to be embarrassing any more), and I tell you one of my favorite things about Sturgis South Dakota (It's NOT the bike rally).

This one takes 7:57 of your time.

Cliff

Blogcast 15

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Sunday morning and afternoon in Gillette, Wyoming"

You get to meet some of the folks that "looked after me in Gillette, WY, and get a feel for the ministry in this part of Wyoming, on this blogcast. These portions were taken on the way to church on that Sunday morning and in the afternoon when I had to do an unexpected U-turn for a little different reason.

This blogcast will take 9:19 to watch.

Cliff

7-23-08

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I Still Like Old Stuff Too!

When I’m at the grocery store, as soon as I get to the cereal isle I know immediately if I’ve taken my ADD medication, or not. If I haven’t taken them, I can feel my body begin to shake, my eyes dart around so fast that my head can barely keep up. Eventually, I have to look down, close my eyes, and think “happy thoughts.”

Recently, I was on the cereal isle and I had apparently taken my medication, because I was in shopping mode. I noticed an older gentleman looking at the cereals with a glazed over look on his face. He looked like he was just invited in to see OZ. In a little while when he apparently could no longer contain himself, he asked, “Where did all of these cereals come from?” I chuckled a little and said, “You gotta love the cereal isle.” He said, “I haven’t been to the grocery store in years and I had no idea there was this much to choose from. How on the earth are you supposed to pick a cereal?” Few times in my life and only people who don’t know me will actually look to me for valuable guidance. Not to miss an opportunity to espouse my “wisdom of the cereal isle,” I put my Barney Fife all-knowing attitude on and said, “Well, on this end ya gotchya grains, fibers, and healthy choices with some fruits thrown in here and there, and over here…” He interrupted me with a “please, help me,” look on his face saying, “What do you usually pick?” I looked at him, smiled and said, “Me…I usually go for the high sugar content cereal. Have you ever had Captain Crunch?” I grabbed a box for myself and handed him a box.

Honestly, I do usually get the high sugar cereals, you know the ones from childhood that rot your teeth – fruity pebbles, fruit loops, cocoa puffs… I use these more for nightly snacks, rather than breakfast (yea, I know, bad, bad, bad). It had been a long time since I had Captain Crunch. That evening when I got my Jethro Bodeen bowl out (you know the kind big enough to stick your whole face in), and poured my snack of Captain Crunch, I couldn’t believe how good it tasted to me. It had been a long time since I had Captain Crunch, and though I’m sure it is poisoned with all kinds of bad stuff – it’s still good.

I started thinking about other stuff that is still good such as, old songs (secular and Christian) that I used to listen to, old games I used to play, old movies and TV shows I used to watch and then I realized that I’m starting to sound like I’m getting older. Then I realized that Matthew, being only nine, likes some of the same old stuff that I liked. He likes listening to some of the same “old” songs I listened to (secular and Christian), he likes playing the same “old” games that I played, and watching the same old movies and TV shows that I used to watch. And he even likes Captain Crunch and his cereal bowl is only slightly smaller than mine.

John and I have talked often about some of the “old” worship songs and creative ways to utilize them in worship services. A point that he made was that “Those old songs are good – not because they are old because they are GOOD.” As it is true with many other things in life…

I have to also say that I love much of the NEW stuff too (with exception of the cereals – all of the new cereals are either reeeeeeeally healthy or reeeeeeeally sort of gross). This is very encouraging to me because I know that much of the new stuff will be around for a long time not because it is just “new” but because it is GOOD!

What old stuff do you like?

In His Grip!

Cliff

Blogcast 14

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Ever wonder what happens when you wash ADD medicine down with an energy drink?"

Well, obviously the title is rhetorical, I mean, like, DUH! Who hasn't ever wondered what that would be like? I think this is one blogcast in which the title literally says it all. I wash down my meds with a "Monster" energy drink and then tried to reach my destination in Wyoming. Wow! I never realized that I could be like this until I watched this footage. I got on my own nerves just watching it. Enjoy my demise.

This blogcast will take 9:13 of your time that you will never get back.

Let me hear from you!
Cliff

Blogcast 13

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Into Wyoming"

In this Blogcast you will hear about Jennifer's history of "play-by-play" when I'm away from home. I get Jennifer's update on Matthew's Tae Kwon Do tournament. This play-by-play is very typical of the way I get information from most of Matthew's sporting events - she means well. Also, you don't want to miss joining in on the celebration song. Then, by watching this blogcast I realize how truly insightful and articulate I really can be. It amazes me of the depth and insight I have when it come to expliaining mapology (my word) and why U-turns are sometimes necessary.

This blogcast will take 8:22 of your time.

Cliff

"Walk A Little Plainer"

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

As you have gathered from last weeks blog, I'm in Destin, Florida with my family. I had the opportunity to share this ministry in some wonderful churches. I have enjoyed some good runs along the beach, and most importantly some really good "together time" with my family. These two weeks have become a tradition for my family for six years now. It has been wonderful to watch how Matthew has grown to look forward and cherish different aspects of this over the years. Each year I watch him get more and more nostalgic about the Destin experience.

I use this opportunity to do a lot of reflecting and praying with the ocean view and the the sand under my feet. I try to hear God on the waves as it were. I try to reflect not just on this ministry, but my life, our family, and my walk with God, while I'm here.

It's funny how we go through periods when God seems to be showing us the same thing from several different places all within a short time frame. I have always gotten up early when we are in Destin and taken lengthy early morning walks on the beach. This year I get up and take a run, still alone in my thoughts and enjoying my time with God. This year, several times in the evening, Matthew has suggested that he and I take a walk. Each time he wants to walk farther than we did the last and even run a little. The other evening on the way back I noticed he kept fallen behind me. I would turn and ask, "You okay?" He would looked up and say, "Yes." Later, I noticed that he was walking in my footprints. I got a little emotional as I remembered a poem that my mom had on the refrigerator when I was growing up. It was called "Walk A Little Plainer, Daddy." (I will include a copy at the end of this blog). I could almost remember it word for word as I grew up seeing it almost everyday when I was growing up. I think every Father wonders from time to time how we are doing in that department. Of course, this being me, instead of letting a tear fall from my eye, I started taking really big steps and then spreading my feet really far apart so that he could hardly reach my prints with his foot. I began to hear him giggle as he jumped from footprint to footprint.

I also enjoy reading while I'm in Destin. I usually read a novel or two and something from the "spiritual" side. This time I had a great book that a friend had given me entitled "Raising A Modern-Day Night." I got to finish it and WOW! What a book for Dads. I will include this in my book list when I finally get that going. Dads, don't walk, but run out and buy that book NOW! It proved to be another source for God to speak His truth into my spirit about being a Dad.

All in all these last two weeks have been heavy for me in the Dad department; reflecting on what I learned from my Dad and being grateful for that, learning what kind of Father God is to me, and thinking about what Matthew is learning about his heavenly Father through me. I've been on an emotional and rewarding journey this week. It seems that God is teaching me about Fatherhood. Perhaps if I concentrate a little more on being a good student, and a good son, I might be on my way to becoming a good father too.

In His Grip!
Cliff

"Walk Little Plainer, Daddy"

"Walk a little plainer, Daddy,"
said a little boy so frail.
"I'm following in your footsteps
and I don't want to fail."

"Sometimes your steps are very plain,
Sometimes they're hard to see;
So walk a little plainer, Daddy,
For you are leading me."

"I know that you once walked this way
Many years ago.
And what you did along the way
I'd really like to know."

"For sometimes when I'm tempted
I don't know what to do.
So, walk a little plainer, Daddy,
For I must follow you."

"Someday when I am grown up,
You are like I want to be,
Then I will have a little boy,
Who will want to follow me."

"And I would want to lead him right
And help him to be true.
So, walk a little plainer, Daddy,
For we must follow you."

by Forrest Flowers

Blogcast 12

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Rocky Mountain High"

In this blogcast I take you on a drive beginning at sunrise from the top of the Rocky Mountains winding all the way to the river in the foothills in Colorado. I give you a short introduction to what you may see and then wrap it up in front a small mountain stream of what I suspect would be very cold water. There I give you a plan for the Wyoming part of the journey. You will either enjoy the music type video and count it a spiritual experience or you will get car sick. Let me know which way it goes for you.

This blogcast will take 10:04 of your valuable time.

Cliff

The Blur of Summertime

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

For as long as I can honestly remember, I have always looked towards summer with a great deal of excitement and anticipation. Even in Texas where it usually means long, hot, dry days (and even nights) with a whole new population of mosquitos. As a child my excitement was fairly simple - no school - nothing else mattered. Now, though it means busy schedules trying to work everything in to shorter summers than what we used to get, I still can barely contain my enthusiasm as it approaches. I love it for kids and families. I love it for the variety in schedules. I especially love it for the summer foods like hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill, watermelon, and homemade ice cream.

Usually as May rolls around I try to keep my travels to a minimum, within reason, so that I can enjoy some of the summer days with my family. Six years ago I had a booking in Destin, Florida. I knew nothing about Destin. Jennifer noticed it on my schedule and said, "Hello - Vacation." We came that year and I played and we stayed over a few days. Every year since then Jennifer and Matthew hear God calling me back to Destin in the summer to do "ministry." The first year or so I had a hard time not feeling a little guilty about it, but Jennifer consoled me by saying, "Just think of it as God's blessing to you for all the nights you spend sleeping in your car on the road." We have also been blessed to have Aunt Betty make the trip with us every year as well, and we when we leave we always pray that we can come back just one more time.

Before we left town, we had another special blessing. John Hollan, my friend who writes the "Current News" article on my site every other week made a quick trip to Dallas. When he and I became friends he lived one town over from me and we began a tradition of playing racquetball every week and then going to eat barbecue at "Bubba's" in Ovilla, Texas (best barbecue EV-ER!!). Eventually, we modified that tradition to just the eating part. He and his family came to town for wedding and our families got to meet at Bubba's for some barbecue and great fellowship. The picture below is a snap shot of our time together. As you can see there is still food on the table so you can deduce that it was taken before we started eating. On the right side is John, Melinda, Meredith, Lillie, and hidden behind Matthew is Olivia Hollan. Then Matthew, Jennifer, and me.

As you can tell so far my summer is off to a good start. Like everyone else we don't live our summer day by day, but rather week by week. Matthew has spent a week with our friends Joe and Barbara Erwin and their grandkids, gone to football camp for one week in the mornings, and now we are in Destin. Though summer is definitely a blur it is just so much fun. I pray that you and you are having a great summer as well.

Don't forget to check the weekly blogcast every week and let me know what you think. I will try to stay current with things on the site, and keep it fresh for frequent visits. I always enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or snide remarks please send me an email or a comment.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 11

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Checking emails with John and a little run"

After John's and my banter on blogcast #10 he proceeds to help me stay in the loop while traveling by checking my emails for me. My emails ranged from "lose weight drinking tea" to someone saying that I'm self-indulgent. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT! ME SELF-INDULGENT!? After the emails I took a short run - wait I guess it really is about me isn't it.

My deepest apologies that this was a week late. I could have sworn I had already set this to come up on the site last week, but after a conversation from a very disappointed John, I suppose somehow I just didn't get it loaded (I should have blogcasted that conversation).

Anyway, I think you will enjoy this blogcast, or at least I hope you do. I'm always open to suggestions and would love to post your comments if you chose to take the time to write one.

This blogcast will take 12:10 of your precious time.

Cliff

Blogcast 10

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Morning in Colorado and chat with John"

This blogcast gives a run down of the day as it develops (since I didn't plan very far ahead). Then I check in with my friend, John Hollan, and we enjoy a little chat about blogging in general. John shares his insight and might I say spiritual thoughts on the subject with which I wholeheartedly agree - with a little "Cliff Spin." You will enjoy this one.

This blogcast will take 10:28 of your precious time.

Cliff

Blogcast 9

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Begnning of the Wyoming/South Dakota Tour"

Now we are beginning another tour. This first segment will get us started on our way. I will lay out what few plans I have for the trip as far as traveling goes, share a national day (that I didn't even know existed) with you, share a little story with you, and we will play a road game called "Stripe Counting." You will learn the basic technique of counting stripes from the master. Enjoy! And please don't ever try it - it should be down only by professionals.

This Blogcast will last 13:31 of your precious time to view it in its enitirety. Let me know what you think.

Cliff

The Spain Story

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

How quickly things change sometimes. One minute you're just, you know, living and the next your on your way to Spain. Well, maybe that is exaggerating a little, but indulge me to relay another Cliff story.

In April of 1999 while I was a worship leader at a church in Fort Worth, Texas, I took a trip with the Singing Men of Texas (SMOT) to Spain for a mission trip/tour. It was a very well planned and executed ministry opportunity that I will never forget. In February of 2000, less than a year later, I had begun this saxophone ministry. A few months after that I received an email from a radio personality in Cadiz, Spain asking for some of my music to be aired on his radio station because his listeners enjoyed American music and instrumental music in particular. He had "stumbled" across my website and emailed me. He didn't know that I had been to his city a year or so earlier. Of course, I was happy to send him the Cd's that I had at that time.

I had not heard from him since, until this past February when he emailed me again asking if I had any more music to send him. Of course, I was happy, once again, to send him my other Cd's. A few weeks ago, as I was having Sunday lunch with Bro. and Mrs. Mike Barrera in Laredo, Texas, I was asked if I had played overseas. I found myself relaying this anecdotal story to them and ended with, "Who knows, maybe someday I'll got back to Spain," to which he replied with, "What if my church sent you." At that time I was eating the best smoked chicken I had ever eaten in my life and I refused to choke on it so I tried to swallow and then asked, "What do you mean?"

It turns out that United Baptist church in Laredo, Texas has a partnership with missionaries in Madrid, Spain, whom I had met when I was there with the Singing Men of Texas. United Baptist sends two or three people from their church every year to help with the work in Spain. They have graciously offered to send me with them.

I cannot begin to tell you the excitement that I feel for an opportunity such as this. We just solidified this last week, and so there are many details to be hammered out, but I will update you with the developments in my Blog under the category "Spain Tour" as it unfolds.

At this time all I can tell you is that it appears that I will be in Spain from November 28th through December 8th this year. Please pray for this entire process and the possibilities that lay ahead.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 8

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Bridging the Gap and Viewer Email"

Fom my home in Midlothian, I try to get one step closer to getting these blogcasts caught up to "real" time. In this blogcast I try to fill in some missing pieces and prepare you for the the next series. I also take this time to answer some viewer email, as well as take up the "Hot Sauce Challenge."

This blogcast is 13:08 in length

Thanks for watching and I hope you enjoy it!

Cliff

Don't Forget To Remember!

Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I have really enjoyed this Memorial Day weekend. Perhaps, the most memorable and enjoyable that I remember in a long time. After being on the road so much, and away from my family, I had a very enjoyable weekend with them. Things are winding down for the summer. I have learned that "winding down" really just meand that we are transitioning to a different, more erratic kind of busyness, but I look forward to it - I like change.

Thursday Darren and I had an awesome recording session, I then got to visit with another friend for coffee. Friday, Matthew was out of school. He, Jennifer and I got to spend some time together Friday and Saturday, Sunday morning I had the opportunity to play in Jasksboro and worship with the folks that you may have seen on that crazy video that I do called "Promised Land." I always have a great visit with them. Monday, Craig and I ran a 5K in Dallas and then He, Karen, and Aunt Betty came over for a cookout and a litte "pool time."

It sounds as if with all of the activities that I didn't even acknowledge that it was Memorial Day. The day set aside for us to remember those who have given their lives so that we can enjoy so much freedom. Actually, quite the contrary is true. Many times over the weekend I thought about those people and their families. While I was driving home from my recording session, and coffee time with a friend, I found myself grateful that I didn't have to worry with so many things that people in other countries have to contend with just to enjoy friends. While I was driving to Jacksboro and back home, I found myself grateful that I could worship so freely with whomever I wish without concern for my life in any way. While enjoying the company of my family I found myself grateful at getting to hear the laughter in my own backyard without any fear or concern at all. Even when I gasping for air while running the 5K, I found myself grateful for those who have given so much so that I could enjoy a little recreational activity again just becasue I wanted to.

Perhaps the best way to honor those who have given their lives for our freedom, is to enjoy the freedoms for whcih they died to the fullest. Worship, family, friends all God given freedoms, but protected through the generations with the lives of brave men and women.

By the way, the 5K... I placed second in my division - ONLY IN AMERICA!!!

In His Grip!
Cliff

PS. I want to thank my friend, running partner, and coach - Craig Piller. He could have easily placed 1st or 2nd in his division, but chose to run beside me instead. Thanks Craig - You Da' Man!

Blogcast 7

Mon, 26 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"The Journey Home" Part 2 - The End

I know you thought we would never make it, but we did. This time you get to join in on the "sing-a-long" witness another silly road game or two and find ways to help me bide my time. This will conclude the Kansas, Missouri, Illinois tour. Thanks for going along (it could have been a real bore all alone).

Ask Me Anything

Sat, 24 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

You may be one of those people, who after watching a blogcast or reading a blog, just find yourself shaking your head and thinking "hmmmm." These mind provoking blogcasts inspire wonder and deep thoughts in your spirit. Maybe there's a question on your mind, but you are not sure if its worth asking or perhaps more importantly, you may not REALLY want to know. This is the place on my website to ask anything you want. An example of some questions I have received recently are "Why do you wear the same cap all of the time," or "How did you learn to drive without ever looking at the road..."

I will gather these questions and answer them from time to time on future blogcasts. If you find no other place on my website to ask YOUR question do it here. The category is "Questions for Cliff" and should always be visible on my blog page. I will use this place to gather those questions and answer them on blogcasts. I will mention your FIRST NAME ONLY, city, and state.

Just remember the only dumb question is the one that is never asked.

Cliff

I ACCEPT

Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I received the following email from a friend...

Hello Cliff,

I enjoyed watching your energy drink taste test! And I watched with interest as you put five sour warheads in your mouth!

I propose a new challenge. What if five of your friends sent you the hottest hot sauce they can find (You supply the chips) and you can rate them? This just seems like a challenge a Texan like yourself would embrace!

Let me know....love ya man!

Mark Hensley
Current Xbox reigning football champion, over Cliff.

So, here's the Deal - I wholeheartedly accept. I love hot sauce and I like it HOT. So, if you think you can set this Texan on fire - take your shot. If you have a hot sauce you wish to submit send it to P.O. Box 208, Midlothian, Texas. You have until June 16 to get your submission in. I will blogcast a taste test of hot sauces and rate them.

Blogcast 6

Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"The Journey Home" Part 1

With the Kansas, Missouri, Illinois tour finish, I head back to Texas. In this episode you get to do yet another few U-turns with me, test an energy drink, play a couple of silly road games, and end with one of my biggest mistakes EVER!

Speeeeeeed it UP!

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

One of everyone's favorite episode of "I Love Lucy" is the one where Lucy and Ethel are working at the chocolate factory, it happens to be one of those things that no matter how many times you've seen it still makes us laugh. One of my other favorite ones is the "Vitameatavegemin" one (I digress). Anyway, back to the factory with Lucy. That brings me to how I feel right now. The conveyor belt keeps going faster and the chocolates are closer together, and I just keep thinking tomorrow or next week I will make some headway on it. We all know how that goes. Sometimes like Lucy and Ethel did, we do well hiding it for a while, but we feel like we are going to go under just any second. Anyone with me?

One of the conveyor belts in my life this year is recording the new CD. All of my recording projects grow out of necessity. Sometimes it's just time to record a new CD and we go from there. Interestingly enough though, as I look back over those recordings I can see my spiritual journey reflected in those songs, my heritage, my struggles, my successes... So this time I find myself trying to make sure this one does too. It isn't just a recording of great music. It is the struggle of sifting through all of the wonderful music and styles, mixing them up, and coming out with another episode of my journal that God can use in other people's lives. One of the biggest challenges I face as I go to the studio is song choice. It is the spiritual side of a very tedious and mechanical process.

Darren and I have had two sessions and I go for my third session tomorrow morning (Thursday). Every week I leave the studio with a little better view of the overall project, so I know that I will toss and turn in my sleep tonight in anticipation of getting yet another glimpse tomorrow.

As humbly as I know how, I ask two things of you, my loyal bloggers. First, know that Darren and I truly covet your prayers. Pray that we will be open to what God will want to say through this CD. Secondly, if there are any particular songs that you would like for me to consider making a part of this CD, I would love to know. So the second part would be to send me your suggestions - I will post your comments and I think it will be interesting to see what the "Cliff Hackler Community" is listening to and would like to hear on the CD. So let me know what you think.

I will keep you informed on this CD through my blog in the category "New CD" (until I come up with a category title). If you get a chance I would love to know what you think.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 5

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Anniversary"

Still on the Kansas/Missouri/Illinois tour Sunday march 16th rolls around and it has two significant meanings. One, after my final concert tonight, I begin the journey home. Two (and most importantly) today is Jennifer and my 17th wedding anniversary.

In this episode you will hear how things went in St. Louis at Ballwin Baptist church and if you can stomach it you can see a clip of our wedding 17 years ago.

Checking in and catching up

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I thought I would use todays blog to address a few questions that I have been getting regarding my website, blogcasts, and this ministry in general.

First of all, I appreciate all of the input that so many of you have graciously offered. Learning to keep up with this website is a learning experience for me, but I'm really lovin' it.

As far as the blogcasts go, the last installment of this first series will be up on May 26. This first series is a complete trial. I have gotten feedback and the next ones will hopefully be a great improvement over these. New Blogcast will appear every Monday. The week after the current series "Kansas, Missouri, Illinois Tour" is finished. I will probably do a short blogcast from home trying to bridge the time gap between that tour and the start of the next series.

The next series will be shorter episodes and hopefully a little more entertaining. I have incorporated new segments in that batch that I think will help alot. In the next week or so I will post some interactive questions requesting a response for you. I will also be posting some of the silly surveys, silly road games, and energy drink evaluations.

If you haven't responded to the barage of questions with comments of your own please begin by letting me know what you like or dislike about the new site, the blogcasts, the blogs, videos or whatevever.

Blogcast 4

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Where the Heck is Hettick?"

Still with the Kansas/Missouri/Illinois tour, I'm just trying to get to Hettick Illinois. It sounds simple enough, afterall, I have an atlas AND a map printed off of mapquest.com. Well, per usual leave it to me to turn a simple task into an all out adventure and a major mess...

This episode is 11:21 - enjoy!

Overwhelmed by the Beauty of God

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I am still slowly recuperating from the Wyoming/South Dakota Tour, while at the same time getting ready for an exciting weekend in the Houston area this weekend. I will not take the time to rehash all of the tour in this blog, but you can find it in other places on this website. I encourage you to check it out and see just some of the things that God is doing in the Midwest. Next month the blogcasts from that trip will be posted and I encourage you to look at those as well. There was a lot of fun stuff, but I did take some opportunities to share some of the awesome work that is going on up there so that you can get involved if God so impresses upon you to do so.

I thought I would focus my blog this week, not on the ministry side of the tour, but rather, on how He used that tour to deepen my relationship with Him. I realize that If it weren't for this ministry, I would not have been there, and every place that He opened a door for me to play - I believe He blessed, but aside from the ministry itself, He continues to grow me personally.

I have a book on my desk by Matt Redman entitled "The Unquenchable Worshipper." I have read through it several times, and I sort of treat it like a devotional book. Every now and then I reach for it and read a chapter to start my day. A few months ago I read this sentence from that book and couldn't shake it. It says, "The heart of God loves a persevering worshipper who, though overwhelmed by many troubles, is overwhelmed even more by the Beauty of God." I typed it into my computer and printed it off and it is now taped just above my computer and I read it daily.

I suppose one of the reasons I'm drawn to that phrase is that often times I find myself hopelessly striving to impress God. I know how futile that is... I mean, how does anyone impress God? We can't impress Him with what we acquire - He owns everything. We can't impress Him with our creativity look at what He's done - the universe and still some of which humans have never laid eyes upon. God is teaching me that He is impressed when we are impressed by Him, to the point in which it distracts us from our own turmoil.

I watched the sunset as I drove across the desolate plains of the panhandle in Texas...and I woke up to it rising again over the mountains in northern New Mexico. The next morning I stood in awe as the sun slowly rose from behind the snow-capped Rocky Mountain range in Colorado as the deer, elk, and birds began celebrating the dawn of a new day. Then, in less than two hours later (I wasn't even speeding) I was driving across the golden rolling plains of Wyoming. All breathtaking and beautiful in completely different ways. Later in the week I looked across the fields of some sandy buttes and watched a small family (herd) of wild mustangs taking to the open range. I was truly overwhelmed by the Beauty of God. Look around today perhaps you can see it too.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 3

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Stories, Musings, and other worthless information"

This is the third segment of the Kansas/Missouri/Illonois Tour in March 2008. In this episode I will give you a rundown on how things went in the churches that I played in Sunday and tell you a some things about the those churches.

There are also a Musings, Stories, and Worthless Information segments. A story about the small world in which we live when it comes to running onto to people around the country, a funny story of a mix up with meeting "Joe" for lunch, and the new grape juice "peel and lick" label.

Then of course this segment concludes with a few detours and a possible U-turn or...two... or you get the idea.

If you haven't seen the previous two Blogcast they are still on my site one is under "Categories" the other under "Archives." Come on now you have to keep up.

Hope you like it.

Cliff

Well hmmm....

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I often tell people that I barely even pray on Mondays. Mondays often tend to be reflective and recuperation days for me, so more than likely my blog entries will appear on Wednesdays.

As John said, I am in South Dakota and Wyoming. I played in Dallas Thursday around noon and headed on out this way. I got to Gillette Wyoming Saturday where I played Sunday morning and then went to Rapid City, South Dakota where I played last night. Don't worry I'm Blogcasting this trip and you can get more details from those when they post.

I am thrilled with the interaction this website has produced. It really does make me feel more connected and I'm excited about not only the good Christian fun that we can share, but also the spiritual insights and musings that we can offer one another.

I have been in the Dakota's several times. God has allowed me to build relationships with some wonderful people in this area, some of which are allowing me to stay in their home this week. I am fascinated by the ministries up here. The work here is still very pioneer in many ways, but I have been amazed over the last 8 years how much things have grown and changed. The Dakota Baptist State Office has worked hard at thinking "outside of the box" and you can see how God is working in the Dakota's.

One of the times I was here was shortly after the Dakota Baptists had decided to purchase a motorcycle to GIVE away at the sturgis bike rally. They had Christians from all of the state come and train on giving their testimony in 3 minutes. They would tell people that they could sign up for the FREE bike drawing if they would allow them to share in three means what God has done for them. They say that the Sturgis Bike Rally is basically the Mardi Gras of South Dakota.

Every year somewhere between 250,000 and 500,00 bikers come to Sturgis for the bike rally. Last year over 4,000 people came into the tent to hear someone share their testimony of which, 870 prayed to accept Christ as their Savior. If you want to be a part of this awesome opportunity click this www.sturgisbikerally.com and find out more about it. It will be held in August. If nothing else mark your calendar and pray for Dakota Baptists during this time.

God is blessing my time here so far. Pray for me this week and particularly this weekend and then my drive home. Also, go to "Car Chat" on my blog page and find out how you can be a guest on my Blogcast.

In His Grip!
Cliff

Blogcast 2

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"A New Day"

This blogcast is segment 2 of the Kansas, Missouri, Illinois Tour. If you haven't seen segment 1, I would suggest you watch it first as this is a continuation. This is after the night drive as the sun was coming up and until I get to The Hollands house in Olathe, Kansas.

There was a little snow on the roads, we do our first celebration song, and we do a few U-turns in the process of trying to find our destination, but you can rest assured that we WILL get there...or will we?

Car Talk With Cliff - What Is This?

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I assure you that not everything on my website will be all fun and games, but at the onset of things I think it helps us to begin building a sense of communtiy when we are doing things that is not exclusive to anyone. Just think of the fun things as "mixer's" at a Sunday School party.

I'm not sure exactly how this will work, but the overall goal would be that on some of the long drives I could use this spot in my blog to set aside specific times when people could call in as part of my Blogcast to discuss specific topics or offer topics that we could discuss. For example, you could call in and tell why you love your church, or your favorite song, and why ect... Basically, it would be like a call in talk show with a video camera.

Again, I'm not sure how to set this up, but we just have to try. So let's do it. Next Sunday evening. April 27th after i finish my last concert in Green River, Wyoming, I will be traveling home for the next 20 or so hours. I should be settled in and on the road between 9:30 and 10:00 Texas time. For this first episode the topic will be either or both topics you wish to address.

1) Your favorite Christian song and why you like it

AND/OR

2) An idea for a fun road game for me to try

How do we do this? Any time between now and Sunday night if you want to be a guest on the first "Car Talk" show. Text me at 214 663-9783 with the word "GUEST." Then once I get on the road I will text you after I get all set up and then I will text you and if you are still awake you can call in and we'll chat.

Blogcast? Huh?

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Have you ever heard of "Turducken?" It is a new food for the holidays which includes turkey, duck, and chicken (It's true - look it up).

Okay, these are not exactly "blogs" and they are not exactly podcasts, so that obviously makes them blogcasts. Make it easy on yourself and just chalk it up as a "Cliffism."

I really look for these to take a life of their own. I am presuming that the content, format, and structure will vary quite a lot. I will give you a short synopsis of each blogcast as they are posted. Sometimes I will take a video camera on trips with me shooting different things along the way. This will be like a really cheaply produced reality show - sort of "raw Cliff" (or "Blair Witch Project"). Other time I will probably answer some "frequently asked questions" via blogcasts at my home, or whatever else crosses my mind to do with them. As always I am completley open to your suggestions and welcome your feedback on these.

All I can tell you for sure is that I will do everything I can to keep them to 20 minutes or less and I plan to put a new one up on the site every week or two. You will also be able to catch up on previous blogcasts in the archives folder so come on try to keep up.

Blogcast 1

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

People are always asking questions about what it is like to travel around the country and do what I get to do. People have often mentioned wanting to go with me and from time to time I have traveled with friends. I thought this would be a way to take all of you with me. On these first 6 blogcasts that is exactly what I attempted to do. In the middle of March I toured Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois.

This first blogcast is titled "Introduction and beginning of Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois Tour." I begin explaining this to you from my back patio and then we begin the night of driving. We go from Midlothian, Texas to Kansas."