It's a Birthday Party

Dreaming of playing the tuba

2006-03-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

Shawn Anderson contributes this 7th grade photo of Euey.

hAPPY BIRTHDAY! Welcome to Gene's birthday bash!

2006-02-27T20:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Gene! You are 40 and we are going to celebrate!

Welcome to a virtual birthday party!

Everyone is invited. The gifts are extravagant. The food is fabulous (and guilt free, so enjoy). The entertainment is out of this world!

You'll never want the party to end!

on this forty-something journey with you...

2006-02-27T20:36:00.000-08:00

Happy b-day! We think this picture pretty much captures the monumental joy and epic drama of the day, don't you?! We're a couple years ahead of you on this forty-something journey, and let us assure you, it only gets worse!

We miss you guys and remember fondly our days of partnering together in western Wisconsin. May God richly bless you today with the gift of his felt presence; may he favor you and Juli with depth and passion, and may he give you joy for this leg of the journey and the ability to trust him completely in it.

We love you, Kendal and Sherry

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Gene!

2006-02-27T20:34:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday, Gene. We are sending you people for your birthday and you will need a building so we picked up one of those too. Please don't panic, we are still shopping. Talk to you later. Love, Jen and Sandy.

did some recruiting for you...

2006-02-27T20:29:00.000-08:00

Hi, Gene. We knew you would need a pastoral staff so we are sending you Chuck and Bill to help.
Love you, Jen and Sandy

Dude. Some tunes.

2006-02-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

Dude. Happy fourth-decade. Two-score.

Got some tunes. You'll need iTunes for the links to work on most of these.

A couple of cautionary tales for formerly young preacher-types:

Long Sermon, Brad Paisley

Church, Lyle Lovett

Other fun stuff to loosen up uptight white religious types. Yes, that's you.

Okay, and me.

Again, I Say Rejoice, Israel Houghton and New Breed

In the Sanctuary, Kurt Carr

Come On, Take 6

An awesome song we're singing at church for Easter this year:

Alive, Forever, Amen, Travis Cottrell (you'll need the Real audio player for this one)

Some other songs we've done in church (you'll need a password to view this post; email me if'n you want it):

Celebration Church songs

Some good old, down home, corn-shucking, hog-calling, Barney-Fife-loving songs about the south:

Hillbilly Holiday, Required Listening

And there's this one, if you want it. It's free:

Gotta Do

All for now. Ta-ta.

And happy almost-half-a-century.

Send me some Nyquil.

UPDATE: There's video of Cheney's Got a Gun, too, just for fun. Guy sounds just like Steven Tyler.

The Profiles

2006-02-27T19:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, and this one's from Driscoll, but as you will soon see, he's got better pictures, and much better commentary, here.

Anderson promised to send some pictures, too, but he's running late. Now there's something new -- Anderson late and Driscoll . . . on time.

Enjoy!

2006-02-27T19:29:00.000-08:00

For your birthday, we got yourself and ourselves a present—
Jason Mraz is performing at your birthday party (seen here with a piglet in his pocket…):

And we got ourselves some ear protection so we can enjoy your party, too!

Enjoy!

Dave and Emmylou

Happy Birthday Uncle Gene!

2006-02-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Uncle Gene. This kitty will not make you sick! Love, Calla

Virtual??? Nobody told me. Happy Birthday Uncle Gene. Love, Wyatt

cuz I know you like camping...

2006-02-27T19:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Gene!
I decided to get you an RV so you would go camping with me again...and sleeping in the car would be comfortable for you this time. And if our boys had to pee in the night it could be in a bathroom instead of a corner of the tent.

Sabastian wanted to get you a cat, but I told him you didn't like cats. So he got you a cat tail - which he says is the fun part anyway and cat's don't like their tails pulled so that would be fun for you, too.

We love you!! Happy Birthday!
Sabastian and Analisa

the Party Monkey

2006-02-27T19:15:00.000-08:00

Geno,

We give the gift of the Party Monkey to you from our family. We wish for you to have a unique 40th birthday. (If the party monkey throws his feces at you, feel free to retaliate in whatever means necessary.)
Love,
The Zlabek Family

Cute and Cuddly Turtle

2006-02-27T19:09:00.000-08:00

Gene, this is from Angela. Not sure I understand the reason, but she said you had a fondness for turtles. So here it is.

three gifts for a special friend...

2006-02-27T19:06:00.000-08:00

Gene,
Man, for such a special friend, I just couldn't decide what to get you for your birthday. Especially the big one!!! So I decided to get you three gifts. First, I know how much you love books, so I got you two of the best money can buy.

The second is a picture to put on the wall in your living room. A little bit of Yoder always brightens my day.

And the third gift - well - if I had my wish I would be there with you!!!

Have a great one, Gene.

Dwayne, Kathy, and kids

you think woodstock had a good turnout...

2006-02-27T18:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Eugene! (I'm sorry I know it's Gene now but it just sounds weird to say and type for the same reasons it's weird for you to refer to me as Susie not Susan!)

I, like PK admire your life and the way you lead it. It has been awesome to see the transformation in both you and Juli over the years. I however will not be taking any credit for you being a disciple of mine!

As I think about your birthday and what to get you, I'm reflecting on all the good times spent together in years past. One fond memory is the good ol Doxa days when Juli and I were so sure that each concert would be bigger than the one before. So for your birthday I have decided to give you large venue for you to sing and preach to the "seas of people".

I love you and wish God's best for you.

Happy 40th,
Susan

Happy 40th Birthday Gene !!

2006-02-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

We hope you and the Cubs have a great year!!

from your special friend...

2006-02-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

Eugene,

I'm not sure what I can give you that you don't already have:

A beautiful, loving wife

Three really talented and quite buff musicians to back you up on your virtual stage

The hardest working attorney money can or can't buy (I think he takes payment on Nyquil)

A successful separation from you Siamese twin

Ummm...I don't know what this is

No...you've probably got it all, Eugene... all except for maybe this rare shot of the best night of your life!

Happy Birthday, Eugene, and let's get together again soon! REALLY soon!

Your special friend,

Shawn

Happy 4oth birthday Gene!

2006-02-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the fabulous group of people over 40 :)
We love the 40's and think 50 will be nifty. Wishing you a fantastic birthday and praying that this year will be terrific for you.

Blessings,
Lea & Mark Kendhammer

from one hipster to another...

2006-02-27T12:45:00.000-08:00

Gene!
I would've joined the party sooner but I'm trying to run this church you "gifted" me. Sorry ol'man I couldn't resist. Anyway from one hipster to another - happy birthday!

Miss ya and love ya! Peace!Eric : - )

on this virtual journey with you...

2006-02-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Gene! Let's Go! It's a big deal so I went all-out. I booked you a trip to Cubs Spring Training in Mesa, Arizona. Don't worry I got a good deal on it. You will enjoy the well appointed accommodations aboard Harry Carey's "Holy Cow" luxury cruise ship.

Your 7 week voyage includes 3 nights in Mesa with a special batting practice session with Mark Prior! Mark says, "Your the best Geno!"He looks thrilled to be a part of your special celebration.

On this virtual journey with you...

Jeff

i baked you a cake for your birthday...BAM!

2006-02-27T12:03:00.000-08:00

hope you enjoy...

2006-02-27T11:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Gene!

For your birthday I got you a virtual church family all your own. It is full of people who love the way you preach and think
you are the greatest pastor to walk the earth. In addition, they will multiply to double their size every 2 years. In correlation to the doubled giving every 2 years you will also receive a double in salary every 2 years. They are people who will tell their friends and neighbors how great your church is. Hope you enjoy!

Mary Ann

to my favorite Madison Church Planter!

2006-02-27T07:23:00.000-08:00

Happy B-Day to my favorite Madison Church Planter! I am wishing you a wonderful time as the new Head Coach of the SW LEAD Team! Let's talk.

Love, hugs and kisses,

Stu

it's gonna get crazy!

2006-02-27T07:15:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Uncle Jelly Bean!!

2006-02-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Uncle Jelly Bean!!! Hope your day is wonderful!! I love you!!!

Rena Jean

it's time for cake!

2006-02-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

Everybody gather around...and sing real loud...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR GENO! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Now, let's have some virtual cake...who wants ice cream?!

from your sister...

2006-02-27T07:09:00.000-08:00

Euey,
What a mile-stone in your life. To me you will always be the very ornery baby brother.
You are a Great Husband, Father, Brother and Pastor. You have always put 100% into everything you do. For that I am so proud to be your sister. Have a Great 40th. It isn't so bad!!! The BEST is yet to come.

I LOVE YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! LOVE, Renee

we would like to see you more...

2006-02-27T07:08:00.001-08:00

We would love to see you on your birthday. Hope it is very happy. We sent you this because we would like to see you more often and we care to send the very best!
We love you.
Lew and Teresa

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2006-02-27T07:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Gene! Congratulations.

Glad you guys are here!

Lori Nebel

a song from JennSwift...

2006-02-27T03:30:00.000-08:00

Well… once again… I’m late. Somebody else probably already lead “Happy Birthday”. Guess I’ll have to sing it myself…

Happy Birthday to you.

Happy Birthday to you.

Happy Birthday Geeeeeeeeeeeene.

(big breath, big finish)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

How old are you n-- ….

Oh wait, we already know that part. Never mind.

Happy Birthday Gene.

- JennSwift (one name)

a birthday Hai-ku

2006-02-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

Gene,

I've been post-40 for almost eight years, if you can believe it, and it ain't that bad. Happy birthday!!! You're aging gracefully. In your honor, a birthday Hai-ku:

A little chubby.
Still plays guitar pretty good.
And has his own teeth.

Your friend,

Rev. Dr. Nebel

love you lots and lots

2006-02-27T03:26:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY UNCLE GENE!!!! HOPE IT'S WONDERFUL! LOVE YOU LOTS AND LOTS...

Crystal Renee Andreas

A note from the desk of Ken Hansen...

2006-02-26T12:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Gene,

On the auspicious occasion of your 40th birthday let me congratulate you.You have made it 40 years in this world and are not presently drunk, addicted to cocaine, divorced, carousing with wild women, or appearing regularly on TBN so let's keep it that way!

I have the utmost respect and admiration for the way you live your life. One of the great joys of my life has been watching your God journey. It has truly been a thrill for Chrystal and I. (Oh by the way, did I mention that you're like my only disciple left standing and in his right mind?)

Seriously, I hope that you have a wonderful 40th. I wish Chrystal, the kids and I could be there to celebrate it with you and the family. May you have 40 more years of life giving ministry and may God grant you the desires of your heart. You certainly deserve it! I love you bro, you're a great friend and a great man of God.

And so for your 40th birthday I've arranged for a virtual and intimate dinner with one of my favorite people. Enjoy the
discussion!

Happy "4-0", Geno! from the Ihdes

2006-02-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

best wishes from the Helmuths

2006-02-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Gene!! I picked out a couple things for you for your birthday!
A 1954 Fender Stratocaster! and....

an Original 1966 Fender Precision Bass Olympic White Jazz

wondering what the likability factor is...

2006-02-26T06:06:00.000-08:00

What can we say?
He definately has the likabilty factor!

Jenn Macainag wishes you tan for your 40th!

2006-02-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

Gene, Happy Birthday!!

I wanted to give you something that will help you battle the cold Wisconsin weather. So, I took the liberty of booking an all inclusive vacation for you and your family. You will be flown to a secluded island somewhere in the China sea.
From there a couple of local boats will pick you up and bring you to your sea front cabana. Enjoy the warm weather, friendly people, beautiful scenery and exotic local delicatessen. Have fun and get some tan!!

Jenn

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Gene!

2006-02-25T20:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Big Birthday Gene!! Miss you all here in La Crosse- have a great
virtual bash! G. Dix

from the Burkhalters...

2006-02-24T20:21:00.000-08:00

Geno, to go along with your virtual garageband studio we thought it you might enjoy some extras for your real garageband.

Although not the full version of the latest loops from Apple, we're sending some promo loops that we hope you can use (coming via snail mail later.) If you already have these then send us a virtual gift receipt and we'll glady exchange for an original Whiteheart concert T-shirt from their Highlands Tour (still in the bottom of Tim's t-shirt drawer).

Happy Birthday!
the Burkhalters

Drinks being served this evening...they are virtual so, that's o.k.

2006-02-24T18:52:00.000-08:00

This masculine-chic cocktail was conjured up at Le Colonial in San Francisco.

INGREDIENTS
3 ounces Reed's Ginger Brew or other ginger beer
Juice of 1/4 lime
1 1/2 ounces of Gosling Black Seal Bermuda Black Rum or other dark rum
Candied ginger for garnish

In a tall chilled glass or a glass filled with ice, add 3 ounces cold Reed's Ginger Brew, or other ginger beer, and juice of 1/4 lime. Top with 1 1/2 ounces Gosling's Black Seal Bermuda Black Rum or other dark rum. Garnish with candied ginger.

The best thing about this drink, created by Blue Fin in New York City, is it's fun garnish: Swedish fish.

INGREDIENTS
1 ounce Absolut Citron or other lemon-infused vodka
2 ounces Hypnotiq Liqueur (available online at www.smokerisebottle.com)
1/2 ounce white-cranberry juice
Swedish fish candy for garnish

In a shaker, combine 1 ounce Absolut Citron, or other lemon-infused vodka, 2 ounces Hypnotiq Liqueur, 1/2 ounce white-cranberry juice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a Swedish Fish candy

Make the pear-fect champagne drink—it's simple and delicious. The recipe came from Theo restaurant in New York City.

INGREDIENTS
1/2 ounce Belle de Brillet or other pear cognac
Splash of Grand Marnier
Pear slice or lemon twist

Pour 1/2 ounce Belle de Brillet, or other pear cognac, into a fluted glass, and fill almost to the rim with chilled champagne.

Top off with a splash of Grand Marnier.

Garnish with a pear slice or lemon twist.

We want to PIMP YOUR RIDE!

2006-02-24T17:16:00.000-08:00

Geno!
I wish you a happy 40th. Wish we could be there it celebrate it with
you!
In our absence, we want to PIMP YOUR RIDE! Here is your pimped out new
Saturn!

Anna DeWitt

if he is good enough for styx...

2006-02-24T13:59:00.000-08:00

happy birthday gene! i got you dennis deyoung to help you with your garage band recordings. hope the new band member works out.

kate.

looking back...40 looks good on you

2006-02-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

i hope it's up to your "garage band"...

2006-02-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

Hey Gene...i got you this...i hope it's up to your "garage band"
standards!

Gregg

virtual concert...

2006-02-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

Harry Connick Jr. - a virtual concert.
We suspect that he will be singing some of Gene's Originals.

so we never got to Paris, and found the cafe of our dreams...

2006-02-22T16:49:00.000-08:00

...But our table holds a whole world of memories. No, we never went to Venice
And strolled the streets alone But we built our worlds together and we got the best of both

This cup filled up so quickly - There's too much on our plate
Between the living and the learning, Some things must wait...

For your birthday I have planned a romantic get-away...so pack your virtual bags!

Happy Birthday! I love you.