second round knock out....

Congrats to Michigan State as they knocked Pitt out of the NCAA tourney in the second round. One of these years we're going to get over the hump. So when does football start? I'm counting down the days.

Little Icon - Winning Big

Round One is in the books for the Panthers. After getting acclimated to the air in Denver the Panthers turned up the heat and shut down Oral Roberts. (click on the Panther Icon to read the story on Fox Sports). Next up - Michigan State on Saturday. Two similar styles should prove to be a great game. Fight - Pitt - Fight!

Final Four

Is this the year that the Basketball Program gets over the hump? I think it is. They just need to keep their focus and go to work every day. Fight - Pitt - Fight. Ah March Madness. There's nothing like it.

Baptism

I was baptized (sprinkled) when I was 11 years old but truth be told I only did it because my friend did and I had no real concept of what I was doing or even what it really meant. So for a long time I have wanted to be baptized for real. I mean full on immersion, because the symbolism involved is so profound and deep. Due to recent events in my life, both real world and spiritual I felt like this was something that I needed to do so I finally stepped up to the plate and went for it. I have posted the pictures that were available and honestly I'm making some pretty ridiculous faces. So just know that it was an amazing time. The man on the right in the white shirt and glasses is my father and it was extra special to have him be a part of this event. My family and some friends were present and it was a joyful celebration of what God is doing in me and with in my family. When I get my hands on the video I will post that as well. Obedience is a good thing. Though initially it may hurt or at least seem to hurt in the end it is worth it. Enjoy the pictures.

Revision...

I need to revise some updates about individuals in this picture: from left to right
Cliff Eberly (Australian coming to America this summer)
Steve Reed (Police Officer in Mesa, Arizona)
Amanda Martin (Nurse living on Duke Street in Lancaster, Pa)
Eric Sauder (Married and living closer to Philly)
Kendra Sauder (Not as big of a "The Mint" fan as previously reported.)

more graphics work...

I attended a baby shower last week for Eric and Regina Martin, or I guess it was technically for Malakai. It was held at the Prince Street Cafe in downtown Lancaster. There were a ton of people there who brought many gifts of clothes and childrens books. It was really a good time celebrating what God had done in the Martin's lives. I didn't give them anything because I was still finishing up the gift/project that I had intended for them. I enjoy giving gifts that people will remember, gifts that aren't just bought but created. So putting my gifts to work I came up with this. I have always been fascinated by heraldry (knights/squires/shields/swords and the importance of a name) and wanted to create something that had pretty significant spiritual meaning and spoke to the masculine heart that is growing inside this little boy. I started with the armor of God, specifically the shield of faith. Eric and Regina have been very open about their joys and frustrations through out their journey to become parents and yet through all the down times they never neglected their faith in God and His plan for them. The two swords on the shield represent the Sword of the Spirit. Why two you ask... good question. I was reminded of the story in the old testament about Elijah and Elisha right before Elijah was taken away. Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit, and we ask that as well for Malakai. That God would bless him with a double portion of his spirit. Veritas means Truth, representing the belt of truth. To the left of the word Veritas is the Liberian Flag which is Malakai's Biological heritage. To the right is the U.S. Flag his new heritage. Malakai means "My messenger" or "My angel". Which is represented by the wings off of the sides of the shield. Blessings to you Malakai for the Lord has big, big plans for you. A messenger of truth, faith, strength and love.

Some Graphic Work

Easter is always a very special holiday for Christians but honestly I think it took on an even deeper significance after "The Passion Of The Christ" was released. Wow. Probably one of the most intense films I've ever experienced. We are gearing up for Passion Week here at Petra and I just finished up the design for the poster that will be placed around town. I am excited to increase my design knowledge. I feel like I am only beginning to tap the surface of what is available inside. Part of it has to do with learning the full functionality of the tools at my disposal and the other part has to do with not being afraid to push past the boring template mentality of if it ain't broke don't fix it. So here's to trying new things.