Happy...

"When you buy a box of Ritz crackers, on the back of the box, they have all these suggestions as to what to put on top of the Ritz. "Try it with turkey and cheese. Try it with peanut butter." But I like crackers man, that's why I bought it, 'cause I like crackers! I don't see a suggestion to put a Ritz on top of a Ritz. I didn't buy them because they're little edible plates! You've got no faith in the product itself." - Mitch Hedberg

Well, here I am. The new vitamin supplement is going well! I'm anxious to see the results once my 60 day supply runs out. Without a doubt, I know success isn't dependent on taking it, but rather adjusting eating & exercise habits while taking it. There's way too many people who get discouraged when they think they've found the "miracle" weight-loss gimmick that will effortlessly make them skinny again. I like how my Dad puts it, "You didn't get fat overnight."

So each day is a new challenge to make it through committed to the last. I did awesome yesterday despite a few temptations. To me, it seems easier to keep up with it, once you've survived a few days roughing it off fast food, etc. This weekend, I'm going to work on a regular exercise program to go with my schedule, which can be weird.

One tradition in my family that still carries on even today, is I normally get an Easter Basket still from my Mom & Grandma. I asked my Mom last night if she could just give me a gift card so I can get some healthy food. If I hadn't said anything, she probably would've gotten me some bags of Jelly Belly's, which are probably my favorite candies.

Things are going really well right now. I'm happy with the friends God has placed in my life. They've been really encouraging to me, which is amazing considering the negativity I was immersed in for so long. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!!

God Bless!

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Jeremiah 29:11-13 - “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Bridal Show Today...

"This shirt is "dry-clean only"...which means it's dirty." - Mitch Hedberg

Today marks another day on the journey to be fit. Yesterday, I started on a new vitamin supplement, with great results! I highly recommend the website www.nutraplanet.com They have really great deals on what's new and helpful.

I started on Dexaprine, which not only helps eliminate food cravings, but gives you great mental clarity. At one pill a day, it's really great. I even found myself less dependent on caffeine, which is a big stretch for me, as most of my friends would confirm. I haven't weighed myself yet with the results, but I have a two month supply, and I'm anxious to see how this plays out.

Valentine's Day was great! I spent it with friends, singing karaoke and having a wonderful time. Also had some great shows last weekend, which both went fabulous! My DVD is now available on my website www.richjonescomedy.com

Today, I will be at the Bridal Show at the Dayton Marriott supporting my friend Carrie's business, Parties On A Dime. If you're looking to plan a wedding or any other kind of event check out her site www.partiesdime.com I love her slogan, how you won't have to dip into the kids' college fund to make your event successful with her in your corner.

Key West in September, & I'm on a roll!! God bless!!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

1 John 4:11-12 - “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us.”

Training For Key West in September - Day 3

"You don't have to be sweaty and holding a basketball to enjoy a Gatorade. You could just be...a thirsty dude! Gatorade forgets about this demographic!" - Mitch Hedberg

Well, I'm shaking things up a bit, again... My DVD is finally out! You can purchase it now on my website, www.richjonescomedy.com

I have renewed motivation after this week & a discussion I had with my Mom about living more healthy. We both committed to do better. As stated I set a goal by my 34th birthday to make a significant difference. A good friend invited me to go on a group trip to Key West, FL in September, which is even more motivation for me because I want to look nice on the beach.

The clock struck midnight less than an hour ago, & I'm officially into my third day of training! How exciting it is. It's a wonderful thing when you have motivation. The idea of hope for a better tomorrow pushes so many people to do their best in all situations. Yesterday, I found out how determined I am. For crying out loud, I turned down the Sam's Club Sample Lady for food that wouldn't have helped me reach my goal!

This blog shares a lot about me, but I want to share something that's not about me. A former student I substitute taught for was in a very bad car accident that killed one of his friends, & injured himself & two other people. He's currently in an induced coma, & hooked to a breathing machine. I heard their could be possible brain damage. This same guy is the only student I've ever subbed for that made me loose my cool because he was pulling his car around & accelerated as if he was going to hit me. He always called me, "Funny Man", wanted me to tell him jokes & write him passes to get out of class (which I didn't). His name is Ricky. Please say a prayer for him, as well as the other in the accident, including the family of the girl who was killed, and the driver who caused the crash.

Thank you for all your support! Live the life & chase the dream!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Psalm 86:5 - “You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to You.”

Dreams...

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." - C.S. Lewis

It's a brand new day, and as I've said before each new day is often a recommitment to the last, or an opportunity to begin again. Often, I'm a dreamer. I even have my own bucket list already, which has some pretty weird things I want to do before I bite the dust. Of course, they're not weird to me. It's important to write down your goals. How can you strive for them if you haven't even bothered to identify them?

One thing I'm desperate to do before I go, is to finish writing my first novel. I actually started on it almost two years ago, and I'm still working towards it. It's tempting to just take a week off from everything else and go hardcore to finish it. One thing that I'm going to be able to check off from the list looks to happen this week. My first comedy DVD will arrive in the mail & be available on my website, as well as shows.

It's often funny to me how your goals can change. Not just that, but when you can pinpoint the exact moment when you realized they changed. This interview I conducted with fellow comedian, Kenn Kington was a pivotal moment in changing how I view relationships.



Going to work out today & enjoy my celery & carrots. Thanks guys for keeping up with me! Have a blessed day!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

2012...

Here we are in the final year of the Mayan Calendar. Before this everyone thought there would be total anarchy over Y2K, which really had no effect on anything, except some data entry employees got overtime to change the digits. I'm not afraid in the slightest that this could be the last year I have to make a difference in this lifetime. A lot of changes have happened in me over the course of the last two years, but I couldn't be happier to embrace the unknown of what's to come. I've heard so many stand-up comedians who are now financially stable, being able to do what they love as a career offer some advice that I'm now adhering to. Enjoy the journey! Gosh, how many of us even think of that as we try to overcome adversity? I haven't been the most diligent with my weightloss journey, especially with the holidays & certain stress that was channeled toward things other than focusing on God.

Only recently, I purchased a year membership to my city's rec center fitness room. I've been going there frequently since October. It was very reasonable & there aren't a lot of muscle heads walking around with the tanktops & barbwire tattoos to make me feel inferior. In fact, it's quite the opposite. There's a ton of old people who think they're little kids & don't mind streaking in the locker room. (FULL BODY SHIVER!!!)

Only three days into this new year, and it rings true that this is my year of jubilee. Don't give up, and be encouraged you are not alone.

Forever In Christ,
Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Psalm 40:11 - "Do not withhold your mercy from me, LORD; may your love and faithfulness always protect me."

I hit the big 33 Tuesday!!!

Thank you to everyone for the special birthday wishes yesterday! Gosh, it feels weird being 33 years old now. I had a wonderful experience with all those who made my birthday special! As my favorite author C.S. Lewis said, "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream..." I have a lot of dreams, & it's encouraging to know that there's no need to factor in age if it's truly a dream.

It's been a great first month at the Rec Center working out. I even purchased a pair of weight lifting gloves last weekend, that will come in handy! Play-It-Again Sports rocks!

Recently had a wonderful experience performing with my Comedy Odyssey friends for Shreve United Methodist Church in Shreve, OH. They were a wonderful audience, which made it humbling to perform for an Alzheimer's Community the following day. I pretty much had to throw out 75% of my act, which is a bunch of one-liners that I didn't think they would understand. Kudos to Jeff Woodroof, who was also there with me and is more of a Cosby-like comic with storytelling. He was a bigger hit, which I anticipated.

Despite the rain, I'm looking forward to this weekend! I'm also happy to announce the re-tweeking of my website, www.richjonescomedy.com which is still being updated, but I'm loving the new format! It makes it more personal & allows me to share pics from shows & traveling up & down the road. Stay tuned for more updates! I also recently met Impact Wrestling Knockout Christy Hemme who was gracious enough to give me a plug for my comedy! Hoping you guys have a wonderful Thursday!


Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Psalm 37:4 - “Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Cage Fighter Training Continues...

"Sometimes when you sacrifice something precious, you're not really losing it. You're just passing it on to somebody else..." - Mitch Albom

The Cage Fighting training continues... For those of you who don't know, when I say that, I simply mean I'm eating healthy. I'm actually somewhat on the Bruiser Brody Diet right now. It was never anything famous, but just something I read about a deceased professional wrestler named Frank Brody, who was known to millions as Bruiser Brody. Unlike many wrestlers, Brody was very smart about saving his money. According to many interviews I've watched documenting the behind-the-scenes happenings regarding Brody, he often carried around cans of tuna, and ate them rather than spending his money on fast food, that might taste a whole lot better, but are way more fattening. I watched an interview with B. Brian Blair who often worked out with Bruiser Brody. He explained they often ate tuna and carrots. So while, I'm not exclusive to it, I'm substituting a few meals with the same principles, and continuing to eat much better.

My reality show will resume tonight. I was on hiatus, until I bought a new flip cam. The old one just stopped working. They're dirt cheap now & since I love them so much, I went out & got another one. I got in some random stage time last night at the Liquid Room in Centerville, OH. It was fun, because I went there to support someone for a karaoke contest, & during the judge tabulating, I ended up on stage for a few minutes telling some jokes. It went over really well, & I think they'll be making comedy a regular part of their venue in the near future. It's moments like last night that remind me how much fun I have when I perform, & rejuvenates me to write more material.

I had a great time at the Italian Festival the other day! If you ever get a chance to attend a local festival, especially in the Dayton, OH area, be sure to check that one out!

Tomorrow, I will me meeting about another opportunity that would see you guys view my comedy in a new light. I will go into more detail about it once it's a done deal.

At last weigh-in I was 241 pounds. Stay tuned for a lower number soon! Be sure to check out my reality show, The Rich World www.youtube.com/richworldrealityshow

As always, take a moment to check out the sponsor for my weight-loss Mioshe Apparel
http://mioshe-apparel.myshopify.com/

Thank you for your continued support!!

Adios & Vaya Con Dios...

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Philippians 4:4 - "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Iridescent...

"The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us." — C.S. Lewis

I'm not sure what I'm going for tonight. I had this whole great idea to come on and talk about triumph, but I'm guessing I'll just skip that part. See, I feel like I've been lying to myself for quite a while. I told myself months ago that I didn't have any baggage. My relationships (& I don't mean just romantic) have been very defensive on my part. I always felt I had to defend myself before it was too late. I usually walk away to cool off when someone yells at me or makes it a point to call me out rather than calmly discuss something. It's something I've always done. I probably inherited the trait from one of my parents. I don't think there's anything wrong with it, because a person needs to be calm to discuss something logically. So many nasty things can be said in the heat of an argument.

The truth is, I think everyone has baggage of some sort. There's hurt from before you carry in your heart that you've convinced yourself isn't there anymore. You've prayed your heart out asking for it to be taken away, and yet you think about it the next day, and even the day after that. So does it ever go away? I've often wondered that. I can think of quite a few things I was hot over years ago, and I let that anger burn inside me while the other person probably had no idea they had upset me. At one point, I didn't even want to go to the same church as this individual, because seeing them reminded me of that anger I held against them. I prayed constantly, and finally, let go of the issue it seemed. About 2 years ago, I happened to run into this individual as I was crossing the street. We said, "Hello" to each other. In fact, I even initiated the "hello". It was no longer there. I think about it now, and I feel so foolish for being so upset over what the contempt was for.

Baggage comes in a lot of different forms. There's stuff people blame on their parents, who let's face it, are human beings themselves. To be honest, I don't think I ever rebelled against my parents. I didn't always agree with them, but for the most part, I always tried to be respectful. The things parents do affect us for the rest of our lives, whether good or bad.

Some people blame their problems on God. Which I think is the biggest crock. If you wanna blame God for anything, anything at all, blame Him for loving you enough to give you a choice to either love Him or hate Him. Where I am spiritually is so iridescent right now. There's times I feel like I'm shining and on fire, while there's other times it doesn't seem to show.

The world has programmed everyone into thinking that only the "good" people get to go to Heaven, but that's definitely not true! Look at Christianity for a minute. When you hear the word, so many mixed emotions seem to come to you, don't they? There's been so many people who wore the label of "Christian" on their shoulder like it was a Boyscout merit badge they earned. There's been so many who blatantly seemed to give the word a black eye just for how they carried themselves or how they treated someone in an unloving way. I can say I'm not perfect. I've been very rude to certain individuals. I've done things that have hurt people, and even to the point where it becomes numbing, so much so that right & wrong became shades of grey, and it didn't seem so bad. It's when you have to come clean and accept that destiny without the help of a Higher Power is merely a flash in the pan.

I'm speaking from the heart right now to say that I don't have all the answers. I have baggage just like everyone else. But each new day brings a new, yet the same challenge. That challenge is to let go of all the circumstances, allow yourself to be vulnerable to what miracles God can work in your life, and take no steps backward.

I'm sorry to any individuals who I lead away from the truth, and ask for your forgiveness. How does this apply to me losing weight? Well, baggage is a good way to stuff your face. That much is for sure. So the idea of triumph happens when you give the situation over to God...

Adios & Vaya Con Dios...

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Proverbs 22:6 - “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

What a long but short Summer!!!

"All our offerings, whether of music or martyrdom, are like the intrinsically worthless present of a child, which a Father values indeed, but values only for the intention..." - C.S. Lewis

Been a while since I've done this, but a lot has happened over the course of that time. I had a wonderful opportunity to perform at HopeFest 2011 in Willard, OH, where I shared the stage with such bands as The Undeserving (formerly signed to Warner Bros. Records), Remembering Venice, Waymark, Judgement Call, and House of Heroes (who are currently signed to Gotee Records). It was awesome to hang out with them & the Green Room was pretty sweet!

For those who are unaware, I recently started my own reality show on youtube. The very first "Reality" show was famously the Real World. My show is titled the Rich World. There's a lot of crazy things on there that I do, & I have no idea each day what's going to be on the next. I figure this will be a good outlet though for you to view my progress as far as spiritual growth & living more healthy. I'm happy to report I had my blood pressure checked at a recent vender setup, and I was 116/81, which they said was really good.

I've been singing a lot of karaoke lately, which is really fun! I never would've dreamed of doing it a year ago! Out of my shell, I've arrived, so to speak. Still waiting on my DVD release, which I heard is currently in the first run duplication. Hopefully, I have it by October for a big show I have, which would be nice to introduce it at. Other than that, not much else to report. Carrots, Apples & Tuna have been my friends lately!

Adios & Vaya Con Dios!!!

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Ephesians 2:19 - “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household,”

Giving up...

"I order the club sandwich all the time, but I'm not even a member, man. I don't know how I get away with it..." - Mitch Hedberg

It's amazing what opportunities present them self once you give up trying... Sounds a little far-fetched, I'm sure but that seems to be the story of my life. There comes a point when you try so hard for something that you lose yourself, and it's no longer fun. What's the point of doing anything if it's not fun? Granted not all work is going to seem fun, but there should be a payoff that's worth it in the end, whether it's a warm feeling, happiness for someone else, especially bringing glory to God, or whatever the case might be. I've reached that point, the point of giving up because where I end, Christ begins.

What a great day yesterday was! I'm following a principle one of my friends shared with me. Eat whole foods & nothing processed. If you saw my current diet compared to what I would've eaten a year ago, you'd shreke. I'm still eating cut-pealed carrots like candy. Funny advice I got from him was how to look at pizza. Of course I love pizza. I'm not as fond of the chain pizza places like Domino's or Pizza Hut, but I go for more of the gourmet style & local outfits. I'm sure I'll eat it again at some point, but he said to view pizza as "a slice of bread with a bunch of fat on it..." I'd never thought of it that way, but yeah pretty much! The last doctor's visit I had, he seemed pleased with my weight-loss, so it's going... literally.

I have a few wonderful comedy opportunities coming up, which I'm looking forward to. Other than that, nothing much else to report. I hope everyone is having a blessed week! Thank you for your continued support!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Luke 12:6-7 - “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

Greatest Sharpshooter Ever...

UPDATE TIME!! Life is going, that's for sure. No complaints here. I've had some great shows recently, which got great laughs, but that's not why I define them as great. The measuring stick for me considering they were great is the mere fact that I had fun doing them! It's important to enjoy what you do, and for a while it seems like I've been on auto-pilot with some of my shows. There's a point where you worry, especially when you know there's industry people watching you, which makes it hard to cut loose and enjoy the moment. Believe it or not the show I had the most fun at was an open mic! The reason I enjoyed it so much is because I got to work the audience a little and even poke fun at someone I've known since kindergarten, (all clean of course...)

Eating wise, I no longer stress eat, and getting a better grasp of managing my time. I enjoy singing karaoke now, which I probably wouldn't have done a year ago. Exercise keeps coming, especially in the form of walking. I find it funny when people complain about how far I park from the entrance in store parking lots. For me personally, I like it because it helps me avoid accidents, it's easier to get out, and good exercise to walk.

In case you're wondering why I posted the above picture, it's a representation of what I feel I've accomplished. Yeah, sounds weird, but this picture is of my ALL-TIME favorite wrestler, Bret "The Hitman" Hart applying his finishing move on "Mr.Perfect" Curt Hennig which was when he defeated him to win his first major singles' title, the WWF Intercontinental Championship. This was from Summerslam 1991, and is actually my favorite match of all-time, and in my opinion, the greatest sharpshooter Bret Hart ever applied. From this victory, it catapulted him from being a tag team wrestler to a great singles' competitor, and eventually set it up for him to win the World Heavyweight Championship 7 times. For me, it's a matter of reaching the first pinnacle of my comedy career (short as it's been...) When I first started, I was determined to work with Thor Ramsey. I thought it would only take me a few months, but that turned into almost 4 years, but God blessed me with that opportunity, and even to do a DVD with him! It doesn't end there as with your own hopes and dreams. You shoot higher! That's what I'm doing!

Not much else going on... Thank you for your continued support!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Psalm 37:4 - "Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Been Singing A Lot Lately...

Thank goodness it's the weekend, which really doesn't matter for me, because most shows I do are on weekends. I got my substitute teaching license renewed this week, cause I really need the material. It's actually fun for me to sub for the most part anyway. It has its days.

What a week, indeed it was. My sister came into town and I got to go out to eat with her. Honestly, I didn't go crazy as much as I would've before. I don't even feel food driven anymore. Even had a discussion with one of the cashiers at Trader Joe's yesterday about my purchase, which was two bags of peeled carrots, which I now eat like candy. They fill me up too! I don't exclusively eat them, but it's definitely a better alternative than eating a bag of potato chips. I haven't weighed myself since last Friday, which was at the doctor's office where he said I'd lost 12 pounds since my last visit a month before.

A long with eating better, I'm getting out much more. My social life, if you want to call it that is much better. It's amazing the friends and acquaintances that God places in your life, especially at that particular phase of your life. I have several big shows coming up, which I'm most looking forward to. I've even been singing a lot of karaoke lately, which a year ago, I would've never done. Occasionally, I'll try to sing a song that's serious, or insightful, but I love to sing songs that make people laugh just to see me singing them, which explains my recent serenades of New Kids On The Block & The Backstreet Boys. I also recently sang Trashy Women by Confederate Railroad, which was hilarious.

Not much else to report at this time, except I'm alive and doing well. Be sure to check out my sponsor, Mioshe Apparel. www.miosheapparel.com Peace out jabronies...

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Colossians 2:9-10 “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.”

Chasing The Dream... Enjoying The Journey...

Last week I had to go into the doctor's office for a check-up based on some new medication I've been taking. While it has nothing to do with the story, I give my doctor serious kudos for not charging me a fee for missing my appointment July 5th (as my brain wasn't functioning properly due to the mix-up with the holiday weekend.) Anywho, so I go in and of course do the regular weigh-in they always do as soon as they call you back. I made certain to set my notebook & clipboard down, so that doesn't get included in my weight, which normally I don't think of till after they take my weight. I don't usually keep track of my weight during my doctor visits.

To my surprise, he told me I'd lost 12 pounds since my last visit, which was about a month ago. Apparently, I'm more motivated and he was pleased. I've been walking a lot more, and certainly eating much better. Of course it's also a plus when you surround yourself with positive people who are willing to encourage you, and share your burdens as much as you should do the same for them.

On another positive note, I recently performed my first comedy show ata Womens' Retreat. It went super well! I got tons of great laughs! They say that women tend to laugh at comedy shows a lot more than men do. A big reason for this is men are afraid to laugh in front of the women they came with for fear of them not liking the joke resulting in a later argument. So it's important to make jokes that are appealing to women, if you're smart anyway.

At this time, I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce one of my sponsors for my weight loss journey. Mioshe Apparel has graciously offered to sponsor my journey. They support a great cause that is dear to my heart, and I would like to encourage everyone to check them out at www.miosheapparel.com

Human trafficking is one of the worst crimes today, and they seek to help put an end to it. When you get a chance be sure to check them out.

So what does the future hold? One can be sure it won't be anything left to chance...
God bless & thank you for your continued support!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Ecclesiastes 8:7 - "Since no one knows the future, who can tell someone else what is to come?"

Still Going Strong & That My Friends... That's Cool!!!

Happy to report the Independence continues!! I'm even doing a Womens' Retreat this weekend... Wow, that should be nothing short of amazing! I bet I'll find plenty of them will respond, I go up & say, "Excuse Me..." by telling me I'm fine...

Lots of great things are happening. It's funny when you find out the people you hang around build you up rather than tear you down, which is why it's important to do the same for them, as you would have them do for you. I've been receiving a lot of encouragement. God has placed a number of wonderful people in my life within the past year. Several of which I had been praying for that type of friendship/relationship.

The life-style modification is holding. The biggest challenge for me this week, will be the arrival of my sister into town. Usually, the family wants to go out to eat, which I will probably be too busy anyway, but will make certain to spend quality time with my sis...

Been having a lot of fun lately, especially getting out of my comfort zone & even singing some karaoke!! I even sang a New Kids' song the other day! Love making people laugh, which is what it's all about. Got to meet some great pro wrestlers the other day, Hacksaw Jim Duggan & Carlito, both of which did intros for my comedy videos!!! How awesome is that???

Anywho, thanks for tuning in to this edition. Love that you guys still care about my progress thanks for the prayers!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Matthew 24:35 - “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”

Independence Day 2011

For many who know this day, it's either associated with the birth of a great nation, or a sleeper movie hit from the 90's about aliens who try to enslave the human race and just happen to be defeated on July 4th. Whatever you remember it as, it has new meaning for me today. As life is all about re-commitments, this too is my re-commitment day. The past is the past, and it cannot be changed, but the future has yet to happen, and we can make a difference for the day we are guaranteed.

I encourage any of you who haven't yet, to follow me on twitter. twitter.com/richjonescomedy

My life is often an open book, and one that I seldom ever thought even I could get through. Great things are happening. I have a potential sponsor for this journey to be healthy. More on that as it comes. Also, I just started a comedy tour with some really great comedians. We are known as the Comedy Odyssey.

As well as the tour, I've been working on my first novel, as well as my first Indie Film, Ehahamony, which now includes involvement from a number of great comedians!! On board, we have Thor Ramsey, Kenn Kington, Jeffrey Jena, Derrick Tennant, Rik Roberts, Ken Groves, Dave & Brian, & more to come! I'm really excited about the response from my peers to be apart of this project.

Many would consider me a hypocrite for constantly struggling with the issue to maintain this challenge. Some people might even say I'm all talk. I will reiterate that life is full of re-commitments. Each day is a new challenge. Apart from Jesus Christ, I can do nothing.

I want to thank you for sticking it out with me, and stay tuned for more news regarding this challenge. God bless!! Happy Independence Day!!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Proverbs 3:5 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;"

I was a different person...

Ever hear that person who treated you no so friendly before use the excuse they were a different person at that time? I've heard it said quite a bit, and to be honest, the main person I've heard say it is myself. It's such a constant battle to fight unfriendliness to those who seem to have a hidden agenda. In my experience, if I'm too nice they'll walk over me even more. More recently, I've tried to go out of my way to help people because life is not just about pleasing ourselves.

I've been told a few times recently that I don't shove my "religion" down others' throats. While I wouldn't classify my faith as a "religion", more so as a means to an end to a new beginning, and certainly based on a personal relationship.

Now that I've been "preachy", it's time to focus on the point of this blog. With any lifestyle modification there comes temptation. There's so many stressers out there to make someone who constantly stress eats go insane. I'm back on track now, but there have been many challenges. So much is heavily based on my spiritual growth at the moment. I faced the challenge of what kind of comedian to "brand" myself, which was never an issue before, yet it keeps coming up in my personal life. I have enjoyed bringing the comedy that I do into places that your average "Christian" comedian wouldn't dare set foot in. It's been a wonderful challenge, and a greater reward to see how much lives can change. Remember, Jesus didn't meet the woman at the well in a church service. I posted this quote on my twitter the other day, but it ring true for my heart, which is being challenged everyday to be conformed to likeness of my Savior.

"Comparing your success to someone else's is like putting a value over two totally different passions & the hearts that beat within them, discrediting one over the other, no matter how many peoples' lives they've impacted..." - Me

Okay, so I'm not rolling in the dough doing what I love to do, but that doesn't matter cause what else would I be doing? They say you should always have a back-up plan. Comedy is my back-up plan!

Today has been a great day health wise. My novel is coming a long. I'm currently on chapter 8 of the first book, which in case I haven't told you it's a 3-part book.

I apologize to those who I haven't been as faithful to post updates to. I still love all of you! Thank you for letting me share my life with you and for all those who encourage me! If you're in the Dayton, OH area this Thursday, June 2nd, come out to the Dayton Funny Bone for a great show which I'll be hosting!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Titus 3:7 - "so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."

The Crown I Wear...

It's been a few days, possibly almost a week since I updated all of you. The competition I was in, the World Series of Comedy in Dayton, OH went okay. I didn't win, but it was a great experience! The crowd actually warmed up great after I performed, which was pointed out to me by some of the comics, who said they were sure I would place for that reason. Honestly, I didn't share the same enthusiasm, but still had a great time. I managed to throw in a slam on Xenia, OH, which I actually was inspired to do so by attending a Tim Hawkins' show where I saw him do it.

This Friday I'm performing my very first political rally, which should be an interesting experience to say the least. I can't stand politics anymore. There's certain issues I feel passionately about, but neither side really has my full support. It totally depends on the issues, and the candidates. That's as much as I'll say.

It hasn't been a very big struggle for me, but the last several month it's been weighing on my heart what type of comedian I will be. There's comics who are dirty (which I won't ever be), and there's those who brand themselves, "Christian Comedians", which I don't think is wrong. I've heard comics say they're a comedian who happens to be a Christian, and vice versa. I will admit I've pushed the envelope a few times, but try hard not to. It's easy to get edgy when people are laughing, which I don't think makes it totally right.

One story I recall that totally reaffirms making what I do to be pleasing to God is about Tiffany Arbuckle, who's the lead singer of the band, Plumb. I read years ago, she was about to leave the music industry. She felt her career was over, and not going anywhere. Close to the end when she was about to wrap it all up, she got a letter from a fan that told her they had contemplated suicide, but her music helped convince them not to go through with it. Rather than quit the music industry, she stayed in, and has been going strong ever since. There's so many people out there watching, and listening to what we do. As it relates to comedy, I have the opportunity to make someone forget about their troubles even for a short period of time. How vulnerable can it be to make someone laugh. Try getting on stage with no one else up there to back you up, and make a room full of strangers laugh. It's not as easy as it looks. I should know, because I ran into that myth when I first started. I've been told I'm not funny. I've been kicked off the stage. Some people call it paying your dues. I call it learning from your mistakes.

So as I finish this entry up, I promise I'll talk about the weight-loss journey more tomorrow, but I would like to reiterate the label which I fall under. You will soon know my story, which I'm writing. You will soon see my heart, my passion, and my calling, the crown I wear, and the cost that was paid for me to attain it. It's a strange world we live in.

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

2 Timothy 4:8 - "Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

Look On The Bright Side...

Even in more pain today... But I feel even awesomer!! (just made that word up...) Yesterday I walked 3 miles, and tonight I walked 5, while still eating healthy. So it's "go time" as they say. I probably used that out of context, but that's cool.

Life is going awesome. After months of being all-talk, I finally finished the outline for the 3 parts of my novel, which is what I struggled with for so long that caused me to put it off. I'm not so much looking for a publisher as much as I want to self-publish it. I'm not much for how that all works, but the last thing I want to do is sell away the rights to my intellectual property. Plus, there's an animated movie about it down the road. A friend of mine has agreed to help me write the screenplay for it. He's a great voice talent, and I have the perfect part for him if he does take any roles, a demon-possessed man!! I'm so encouraging! I would love to tell you more about the story, but I don't want to spoil it for when it is finished. So stay tuned!

I got two more gig opportunities today! They're both not until the fall, but I'm excited to have my calendar fill up. It's always weird for me to say this, because I can never picture myself in the past referring to the present tense, but I totally feel like a different person than I was even a month ago. A lot of great things are happening, but even in the bad times it's important to stay positive and look on the bright side. Anywho, I think it's time for bed. In the immortal words of Jane Curtain, "Have good night and a pleasant tomorrow..."

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Romans 15:5 - "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had..."

In Pain, But I Feel AWESOME!!

I'm in pain, but I feel AWESOME!!! Not only am I down another pound, but I just returned from my walk, which I originally planned to go three miles, and during the walk I pushed and went an extra two, making it five miles!! There were plenty of puddles on the ground from the rain, and my feet are covered with blisters, but it still feels AWESOME!!!

I also ate healthy again Monday, which I no longer feel much temptation to cheat. After so long it's not so hard, like anything you put your mind too, although I wouldn't take credit for this lifestyle change that seems to be heaven sent. I feel bad for a lot of my family who continue to eat unhealthy, without naming names. Thankfully, they don't follow my blog. I'm hoping when they see that even I can do it, they'll be encouraged to go for it as well.

I made some great progress on my novel today, working on the outline of the story, which actually helped in the plot and helps writers stay focused on each day of writing. I must give credit to reading "The Art of War for Writers", by James Scott Bell as an inspiration to do so.

Remember there is no such thing as a self-made man. Everyone gets to where they are with help from other people. As the old saying goes, "It's not what you know, but who you know..." For me personally in comedy I would have to say, even though he probably has never read my blog that Tim Hawkins actually helped get me going to being a better comic and where I am now. It was him and his brother Todd who manages him who gave me an opening spot for him in large churches, which helped me become a better comic for larger audiences. I also give credit to Jeff Jena (who I think has read at least one of my blogs) for helping me get started in the comedy clubs, where they WON'T laugh unless you're funny. Who's helped you get to where you are today? Have you ever thanked them?

Looking forward to a new day, and accomplishing more on this journey! Thank you all!

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones

www.richjonescomedy.com

Hebrews 7:25 - “Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.”

Hoping You Had A Great Easter Sunday!!

“That would be cool if you could eat a good food with a bad food and the good food would cover for the bad food when it got to your stomach. Like you could eat a carrot with an onion ring and they would travel down to your stomach, then they would get there, and the carrot would say, It's cool, he's with me.” - Mitch Hedberg

To everyone out there, I hope you had a wonderful Easter Sunday! I actually went hiking as planned. It was very fun. Even saw a few snakes, which happened to stay near the creek shoreline. Not sure what kind they were, but the picture above might shed some light for all you snake knowledgeable people out there.

I must say, my Mom is awesome! I was having a serious weak moment the other night as I watched her load up Easter baskets for my niece & nephew. The Starburst Jelly Beans looked so good, among other candy. Knowing I was having a serious sugar craving, my Mom happened to have some sugar-free hard candy, which is allowed on the South Beach Diet Phase 1 (which I'm currently doing.) So with that, I managed to avoid making a decision that seemed like a great idea at the time.

Weighed myself last night, and it seemed I lost another pound. Will keep you updated in more detail. My cravings for unhealthy food are mostly gone. Following some great advice, I've been doing a lot of other things, which I love and it's kept my mind off of eating so much. I have a show this Saturday at the Bell Hop Cafe in Bellbrook, OH. Sharing the stage with me will be comedian, Jeff Woodroof, (a very funny individual), and his wife Deanna Woodroof, who will be performing her musical talents. Should be an awesome show!

Hope all is well with everyone... Believe in yourself! God believes in you, and He can't be wrong...

Forever In Christ,

Rich Jones
www.richjonescomedy.com

Luke 19:9 - Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”