3 Thumbs Up! June 2nd, 2012
Time for another rendition of the Stretched 3 Thumbs Up! Each week, I highlight 3 things that deserve a thumbs up. This week is a bit of a hodgepodge which I hope you’ll enjoy.
Thumbs Up Number 1: Home Sausage Making. Before you laugh or get too grossed out, hear me out on this one. This book is a great resource for anyone who is adventurous enough to try making their own sausage. There are so many great recipes in the book along with tips for making sausage. Homemade sausage is way better than store-bought sausage. I enjoyed homemade bratwurst over the weekend, and it was clearly better than anything you can buy already made. Check out Home Sausage Making for a fun, new culinary experience.
Thumbs Up Number 2: Pandora. Pandora has become one of my favorite apps for the iPad. Pandora is an on-line radio application that allows you to create your own radio station based on a song or artist. Within seconds, I can listen to music that fits my mood or focus. The application is also available for PCs and iPods (and other platforms I would imagine). I know the local radio guys don’t like this application, but it’s worth checking out Pandora if you’re trying to listen to a certain type of music.
Thumbs Up Number 3: Team GCC. This is a new blog and new adventure by a group of students and alumni from Grove City College. This team of young men is pedaling across the country with a common vision and purpose. They started in Seattle, Washington this past week, and they’re currently making their way across the northwest. Check out Team GCC, and follow them as they make this 4,000 mile journey.
What else deserves a thumbs up this week?
May 2012 Top Posts and Commenters
May was another record-breaking month for the Stretched blog. Overall traffic increased 11.26% from last month’s previous record high. In addition, the Jon Stolpe Stretched Facebook fan page has added several new followers over the past month. The community and platform are growing, and I’m excited to see how God may use the Stretched Community to impact the world.
As always, I like to share the top posts for the past month. Most of this month’s most popular posts were posted in May; however, one post from March continues to be at the top of the charts for this month. Here are the top posts from May 2012:
1. The Power To Change A Family Tree (5/2/2012)
2. Leap Of Faith (3/21/2012)
3. Book Review: By Faith, Not By Sight by Scott MacIntyre (5/29/2012)
4. Writing – A Strange Discipline (5/24/2012)
5. My Mom (5/8/2012)
6. Ice Breaker – Star Wars (5/3/2012)
7. Perkiomen Valley Blogger’s Society (5/20/2012)
8. Ice Breaker – Questions For A Stretched Blogger (5/17/2012)
9. 10 Things To Avoid On Camping Trips (5/27/2012)
10. Foundations Class Starts Today (5/6/2012)
And here are the top commenters for May 2012:
1. Larry Carter (28)
2. Tom Tarver (19)
3. Joe Lalonde (15)
4. Michael Shaw (14)
Thanks again to everyone who stopped by and to everyone who left a comment. Your readership, comments, and friendship mean the world to me. In the coming month, I will be looking for more ways to extend the Stretched Community and to broaden my platform. I am looking to launch a contest for this month. I am also looking for new opportunities to guest post around the blog world. Finally, I will be starting to build a guest post backlog and interview backlog to post while I’m in Guatemala later this summer. If you’re interested in guest posting here or participating in a Stretched interview, drop me a note in the comments so we can connect.
Thanks again for a great month. Don’t forget to share The Stretched Blog with your family and friends.
If you’re a blogger, what was the top post on your blog this month? If you’re not a blogger, what was your favorite post here this month?
Answers To Your Stretching Questions
On Friday, I asked you to ask me any questions. Today, I’ll do my best to answer the questions. This is one of my longer posts, but I hope you’ll find in interesting and perhaps a little humorous. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my responses to your questions. Thanks so much to each of you for some wonderful and challenging questions (I may just have to do this again some time).
What would you go back and tell 16 year old you if you could time travel? from Larry Carter at Deuceology
Great question, Larry. I’d tell myself to buy stock in Apple. I’d tell 16 year-old Jon Stolpe to be confident in who God made him. I’d tell me that I am a writer. I’d tell me not to sweat the girlfriend thing, because God has an unbelievable wife in store for me for the future. I’d remind me that I am a leader.
Who is your favorite blogger? from Rob Shepherd at robshep.com
This is really a tough one as I follow so many great bloggers. Perhaps, my favorite is my dad, Norman Stolpe. My dad is a writer’s writer. He has been writing for years. He doesn’t blog regularly though he keeps a blog. But his weekly sermons have to be considered as some type of blogging. My dad has inspired me on many different levels when it comes to my writing. I don’t ever expect to hold a candle to his writing skill, but I hope that my dad will be proud that I’ve followed in his writing footsteps in some small way.
What motivated you to start blogging? from Rob Shepherd at robshep.com
I have a friend, Frank Chiapperino, who was my biggest encouragement to start blogging. Frank was our adult ministries pastor at the time, and he now pastors his own church in Minnesota. Frank still blogs fairly regularly about leadership, technology, and small groups.
What verse in the Bible challenges you the most? from Rob Shepherd at robshep.com
Colossians 4:2-6 is one of my favorite verses and probably one of the verses that challenges me the most. Making the most of every opportunity means so much to me. I need to make the most in sharing my faith with others. I need to make the most of the time I have with my friends, family, and co-workers. I don’t want my time here on earth to be a waste. I want to hear God say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Would you rather have spam for hands or mayo for a tongue? from Rob Shepherd at robshep.com
This ones easy for me. I hate (I strongly dislike) mayo, so I’ve got to go with Spam for hands. If I had a mayo tongue, I’d be throwing up all the time.
It’s a question I asked on my blog yesterday. If you wrote a cardboard testimony what would it say? from Eileen Knowles at The Scenic Route
“God love me – broken and bruised, impatient and imperfect, STRETCHED!”
Where do you see yourself in 15 years? from Joe Lalonde at jmlalonde.com
In 15 years, I will be 55. I’ll have two kids in their later twenties, and I will have been married for over 30 years. I hope to be 100% debt free including the house. I hope to be giving way more than I’m getting. I’d love to have written at least one book by that time – though I’m still figuring all that out. If I stay at my current job (which is definitely a possibility), I will have been there for over 31 years. I’d like to continue to grow in respect. I’d like to be known for investing in others like no other leader before me. I’m not sure if blogging will still exist in 15 years, but I’d like to use my writing as a tool to expand the Kingdom.
As a man of strong religious beliefs, what do you think is in general the greatest challenge today to people who seek to maintain their religious faith? And what is the greatest challenge to maintaining your faith personally? For example, is it that science has called into question many fundamental beliefs in the Bible? Is it rampant materialism in our society? Is it pressure from the mass media to adopt more secular values? When people who are hypocritical in their religious practice are exposed to the public, is that the greatest challenge to believers? Or is personal hardship and suffering a greater challenge to faith than all of these? from Michael Shaw at I Love Skippack
Wow, this is a pretty deep question which I may need to explore in more depth in a future post. My short answer is this: The greatest challenge today to people who seek to maintain their religious faith is the same challenge that has plagued people since the beginning of time. We are so bent on being in control. We’re self-centered, sinful creatures. We all struggle with ME, ME, ME. And we live in a culture where this pull towards ME is so strong. It’s so easy to be distracted by the things of this world that call to us saying “I can help you get ahead by doing this or doing that.” For me personally, it’s not much different. I get distracted by thoughts of trying to get ahead, trying to make a name for myself, and trying to keep up with the Joneses. The Bible talks about “seeking first the Kingdom of God” in Matthew 6. This can be a real challenge and can be nearly impossible without the support of family and friends of faith who spur me on. This is part of the reason I love this blogging community. While I hope my writing will spur other on, it’s often the Stretched Community that pushes me to keep the faith. For that, I’m grateful beyond words.
How much are you ready to stretch yourself in order to see your God-given dreams come to pass? from Joe Abraham at joeandancy.com
Appropriately, this question is rather stretching for me. I’m fairly certain that I’ve shared this here before – I hate change. I like things to be the same. I would eat the same thing for breakfast and lunch every day given the choice. So it’s no surprise that “stretching” to achieve my God-given dreams is not always easy for me. Honestly, there have been a few setbacks along life’s journey that have dampened some of my dreaming, but I’m relearning some of the skill related to dreaming big again. I shared some of this in a guest post over at Expect the Exceptional a few weeks ago, and I’ve been sharing some of these thoughts especially related to my leap of faith decision to go to Guatemala. I think I struggle most in this area in trusting God financially to provide should I decide to leave my career and pursue something else. I’m not convinced that this is where God’s calling me, but I think it would be the biggest challenge for now. I’m not sure this fully addresses your question, but I hope it’s a start. Thanks!
Wow! This was more challenging than I expected. Thank you to everyone who answered the call to question me. What’s your answer to one of these questions? Or better yet, what’s the one question you’re most afraid to answer?
Perkiomen Valley Blogger’s Society
I have had the privilege to connect with many people across the country and even around the world through the wonders of the Stretched blog. I have had many on-line conversations with many bloggers who I may never meet in person. I’m so thankful for these friendships. It’s interesting to think of what it might be like to sit down face to face with these friends I’ve made over the web. Last week, I had the chance to experience this type of meeting.
On Wednesday morning, I had the honor of being part of the inaugural meeting of the Perkiomen Valley Blogger’s Society. The meeting took place at Mal’s American Diner in Skippack, PA where the “blogger’s society” met for breakfast. The meeting was setup by local community blogger, Michael Shaw, who I met over a year ago through the blogging world. Michael’s blog, I Love Skippack, tells the story of his love for his hometown. Through his story, he has the opportunity to support local businesses and community groups in the town of Skippack. Also in attendance was Brad DeForest. This was my first opportunity to meet up with Brad He is an architect and web designer who happens to call Skippack his home. And then finally, I was invited to join this group.
Our meeting consisted of breakfast from Mal’s great breakfast menu. We small talked for a while as we got to know each other a little bit better. And then we got down to business – although I struggle to call it business. Our conversation about blogging and social media was fun and thought-provoking. All three of us are trying to figure out different aspects of our blogs, and it was fun to think out loud about the next steps in our blogging journeys. I especially enjoyed the conversation about the visions we each have for our place on the web. For a more detailed and humorous take on our inaugural meeting, you should check out Michael’s blog post about the Perkiomen Valley Blogger’s Society.
So where do we go from here? That’s a good question that we’re trying to figure out. I’m hoping we can meet on a regular (monthly) basis for more breakfast and great conversation. Perhaps, we will bring in guest speakers who can teach us some new tips and tricks to enhance our blogs. I know we have many directions and topics that we can cover, and I look forward to seeing where it goes from here.
Have you ever met face to face with other bloggers? Describe your meeting.
3 Thumbs Up! May 19, 2012
Time for another fun episode of 3 Thumbs Up! Each weekend, I present three things that deserve a thumbs up (in my opinion). This weekend provides a fun look at a blog, an iPad application, and something a little different from normal. Here goes!
Thumbs Up! Number 1: Jazz Music. What? This is way too general! I hear you, but I couldn’t help but add this to my thumbs up after a community jazz concert last night that featured my son’s jazz band from Perkiomen Valley Middle School West along with the jazz band from Perkiomen Valley High School. I spent a lot of time playing jazz music through junior high and high school. Hearing the bands and seeing the fun they have together reminded me of my days of playing the saxophone in the band. There’s something so wonderful and expressive about jazz music. If you get a chance this weekend, find some jazz music. Sit back, and enjoy!
Thumbs Up Number 2: Stitcher. Stitcher is a radio application for the iPad, iPhone, and Android. I downloaded this FREE app from the Apple AppStore, and I haven’t been disappointed so far. I’m currently listening to a jazz station from Pittsburgh. Through the Sticher application you can listen to hundreds of live radio stations, or you can listen to all kinds of on demand shows. I haven’t hooked up with any friends yet through the application, but apparently it can be used as a social media connection point as well. Check out Stitcher to see what I’m talking about.
Thumbs Up Number 3: The Scenic Route. This is a great blog by Eileen Knowles. According to Eileen, “The Scenic Route is one girl’s journey from bondage to freedom, from despair to hope, from fear to faith. It is my desire that those who come across this blog will be encouraged to take the scenic route too.” Eileen writes about everyday thoughts, pains, and struggles, and she ultimately shares the hope that carries her through life’s roller coaster. Her blog posts often remind me to stop and enjoy the journey. Consider adding The Scenic Route to your regular reading routine. Stop by, leave a comment, and tell Eileen that I sent you!
Now it’s your turn! What else deserves a thumbs up this week?
3 Thumbs Up! May 12th, 2012
Time for this week’s 3 Thumbs Up! Stretched blog post. For the past several weeks I have used this post as an opportunity to highlight three things that get my thumbs up. This has become a highlight for me as it gives me a chance to support the work of others. So… here are three things that get my thumbs up this week.
Thumbs Up Number 1: Josh Hamilton. I’m not a Texas Rangers fan despite the fact that my parents live in Dallas, TX. However, it’s hard not to appreciate the story of Josh Hamilton. He has weathered the ups and downs of drugs, alcohol, and celebrity. As recently as this past off-season, Hamilton has dealt with the demons of his past. This week, Hamilton hit four home runs in one game. I haven’t heard the interview yet, but I hear that he gave a pretty moving interview after this achievement in which he talked about his past and about his faith. Hamilton’s story is inspiring. He’s obviously not perfect, and I’m sure he will continue to struggle with life. What inspires me about his story is that there is still hope and redemption and salvation. This is a story we all need to cling to.
Thumbs Up Number 2:. Blogging Your Passion Podcast. I just stumbled across this podcast this week as I was loading new podcasts on my iPod in preparation for a long day on the road. So far, Blogging Your Passion has released two episodes in which the speakers share valuable tips on how to improve your blogging along with suggestions on how to increase traffic. I listened to both episodes on Tuesday, and I found them very informative. I’ll be back to listen to future episodes.
Thumbs Up Number 3: Executive Pastor Online by Kevin Stone. I’m not an executive and I’m not a pastor, but I find myself resonating and thinking through many of the things that Kevin throws up on his blog on a regular basis. Kevin came out of the corporate world to take on the challenges of running the business side of a church (my church). His thoughts on leadership and team development often fit in with what I’m wrestling with in my own job as an operations manager. If you’re interested in some new leadership ideas or if you are interested in reading thoughts from a guy who wants to help other churches, I’d recommend you check out Executive Pastor Online.
And those are my three thumbs up for this week!
What have you come across this week that deserves a thumbs up?
Ice Breaker – Blog, Blog, Blog
TGIF! It’s time for this week’s Stretched Ice Breaker. Each week I ask a question designed to help us connect as a Stretched Community. I start by answering the question and then it’s your turn. I’ll answer the ice breaker here in the post, and you can answer the question by leaving a comment.
The Question:
(1) What’s the first blog that you remember reading? (2) What blog are you reading that deserves the spotlight? (3) What’s your blog? (Please be sure to share the links, so we can all enjoy.)
My Answer:
(1) Let Me Be Frank by Frank Chiapperino (frankchiapperino.com). Frank was probably the biggest influence in getting me started with this whole blogging thing.
(2) This is a tough one, because I read so many great blogs on a daily basis. One that deserves the spotlight is Deuceology by Larry “The Deuce” Carter. Larry’s blog (deuceology.wordpress.com) celebrated its first anniversary earlier this week. In each post, Larry writes a post that makes you think twice about things that matter most.
(3) I guess you already know my answer to this question. Please pass this address along to your friends. Tell them to subscribe or follow on Facebook to become part of the Stretched Community. Thanks!
How’s that. I can’t wait to read your responses. Please leave your answer in the comments.
3 Thumbs Up! May 5th, 2012 (Cinco de Mayo)
Time for this week’s 3 Thumbs Up! Stretched blog post. Each week, I feature three things that get a thumbs up. Similar to last week, this week’s post highlights an iPad application, a podcast, and a blog.
Thumbs Up Number 1: WordPress application for iPad. This may not sound very exciting, but I have totally appreciated this application. For three of this week’s Stretched posts, I have been able to write most of the posts on my iPad. This has saved me time later on. While I still go back to the PC to clean up the post, I like having the ability to draft my posts through the iPad. In fact, today’s post was initially written on the iPad using the WordPress application last night.
Thumbs Up Number 2: This Is Your Life podcast by Michael Hyatt. I featured this podcast several weeks ago when it first launched. Since then Michael Hyatt has released ten great episodes about living and leading more intentionally. Each episode which typically runs for 30 minutes is packed with ideas that can be immediately applied to life. This week’s episode was about finding ways to shave 10 hours off your work week. Check out this podcast by clicking here.
Thumbs Up Number 3: I Love Skippack blog by Michael Shaw. Michael blogs about a town just up the road from me. Each post highlights a particular business or aspect of Skippack, PA, and the posts are sprinkled with Michael’s personal stories and passion for the town he loves. Michael and I met through the Internet,and we’ve actually had the chance to meet on several occasions for lunch or over a drink. I love the conversations we have about our faiths and about our passion for blogging. Whether you live near Skippack or not, you should check out I Love Skippack and become a regular reader. Leave a comment on the blog, and tell Michael that I sent you.
So there you have it. This week’s 3 Thumbs Up! Now, it’s your turn. What’s going on in your world that deserves a thumbs up this week?
The Stretched Blog Visits Expect The Exceptional
Happy Star Wars Day (May the 4th be with you). If you’re looking for this week’s Stretched Ice Breaker, you’ll have to go back to yesterday’s post. Today, I have the honor of guest posting over at Tony Alicea‘s blog, Expect the Exceptional. Head over there to check out my post titled Dreaming Big Again. While you’re there check out the rest of Tony’s writing, and sign up to become one of his regular readers.
How are you celebrating Star Wars Day?
(I love guest posting and I love guest bloggers! If you have an idea for a “stretched” post that you’d like to share, please contact me so we can connect. Also, if you think I could help out at your blog with a guest post, let me know as well.)
3 Thumbs Up! April 28, 2012
It’s time for the next installment of 3 Thumbs Up! This is an opportunity for me to share 3 things that deserve a thumbs up. So here goes for this week:
Thumbs Up No. 1: Flipboard for iPad. A friend at work showed me this application for the iPad yesterday. Flipboard is a social magazine application for the iPad and iPhone that lets you set up a customized online browse pad to help you keep up on your interest areas and on your social media outlets. Within a minute, I had the application loaded onto my iPad from the App Store, and I had it set up with my interest areas along with my Twitter and Facebook feed. I love it! It’s definitely worth checking out. Oh yeah, it’s FREE!
Thumbs Up No. 2: Catalyst Podcast. This isn’t new to me, but it’s worth sharing. On a weekly basis, Ken Coleman and Brad Lomenick host this leadership focused podcast that provides interviews and insights from today’s top leaders in the Christian community. Past interviews have been with leaders like Francis Chan, Michael Hyatt, Bill Hybels, John Ortberg, Jim Collins, Andy Stanley, and Tony Dungy. If you are a leader, I’d recommend checking out this valuable resource. Click here to check it out.
Thumbs Up No. 3: The Handwritten. This is a creative blog by my friend, Michael D. Perkins. Each week, Joe hand writes several posts that creatively express Michael’s take on a particular scripture passage. I’m inspired, challenged, and motivated on a daily basis by what he brings to the table. Check it out here. Stop over and become part of his blogging community.
What new in your world that deserves a thumbs up?