Ike

Ike Graul... Musical Genius. That's the only way I know how to say it. Ike has been a long time friend of mine from college. I'm trying to recount the stories to share, however, I think if I were to actually type them out, they could be used against us both in a court of law. For the last several, several years Ike has been working at the pump church in Portland, Oregon. I suggest you take a look at it if you're not familiar with urban ministries. His time working there has been a fruitful for the northwest. PUMP has offered a lot to the church in the suburbs. Ike is a... Prophet. (not really, but really) I love our talks. He tells you what God is saying and he really doesn't care if you don't like what he just said. He just tells it like it is. He is one to never just let you "get by" with junk. He teaches by example and he learns by example. I'm lucky to have him on my back and by my side. This image of Ike is a small glimpse of a great man. His sandals, with socks, are his common foot ware. He is passionate about vanagons... check out his blog page .:trinisonic:.if you haven't already. If you were going to plot to take over the world, you would want Ike on your team. peace. johno~

Mr. Maxwell

Family is a word that has so much meaning to me. I am surrounded by so many brothers, (from another mother) and sisters, (from another mister) I feel as if there is no place for me to go where I am without family. Although Steve Maxwell and I don't share the same last name, he is and always will be Uncle Steve to my children. He's my brother... I'm better looking but his voice is out of this world. When it comes to music Steve can really lay down some sweet vocals that makes you want to stand up and shout AMEN! An obvious gift from God, which Steve has not hidden. His voice is a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. After singing with the several vocal groups, such as freedom and Acappella he stepped up to a higher calling by serving at PUMP church in Portland, Oregon as their children's minister. He is a man of faith, a man of God. Five years ago Steve and I had the pleasure to go to Uganda, Africa. Once more we will make that trip together, Lord willing, in December. I know it will be filled with many new adventures and I cannot wait to sing and dance to his vocal percussion. It was amazing how Steve taught the kids in Uganda to sing. My ears have yet to hear such sweet sounds like those in Africa. This year, I'm bringing a recording device. Steve has even encouraged me to write songs. I'm up to four, with more in the works. If I can do it, anyone can... as long as Steve is there to help. So many songs to be written, so many to sing. Keep singing my brother Steve... keep singing. peace. johno~

Mirmax

On the day you were born, I was so joyful. Many thought you would be a boy, not sure why. I knew. Your name was chosen just for you because you are a Thomas kid... a leader. When Moses lead the children of Israel out of Egypt, Miriam lead the nation of Israel in worship and dancing. Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing. I love your dance. It is beautiful to me and to the Lord. I love you. Miriam has a nickname... Mirmax. Maximum is here nature. All out. Nothing half way. All or none. I love this about her. She can physically challenge those twice her age and compete well. She has a giving heart that makes her even more beautiful. Speak to harsh words to her and tears are quick to come. She cares for others... Gives to others... She has a heart that would make anyone proud. I can't wait to see where she will go. She will go somewhere. However, with Mir, I think it would be good to point her at something so she hits it. I wondered before she was born, "how can you love more than one child?" Miriam gave me the answer that changed my whole life. peace. johno~