Yoel (Joe-L)

Moving Image Magazine

2009-10-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

How cool will it be to hold one of these in your hands?
I cant wait to see the creativity that this will bring to the market.
I cant wait to see the day I walk in to church and get handed a bulletin with moving images. How crazy will that be?

Mere Christianity Chp3

2009-10-06T06:07:00.000-07:00

Here are 2 of my favorite parts from Chp3 of C. S. Lewis "Mere Christianity"

"Of Course God knew what would happen if they used their freedom the wrong way: apparently He thought it worth the risk. Perhaps we feel inclined to disagree with Him. But there is a difficulty about disagreeing with God. He is the source from which all your reasoning power come: you could not be right and He wrong and more than a stream can rise higher than its own source. (here's the best part) When you are arguing against Him you are arguing against the very power that makes you able to argue at all: it is like cutting off the branch you are sitting on."

Think about that next time God nudges you to do something and you want to disagree or refuse to obey.... Ouch!

"A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic - on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg - or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to."

I'm Loving this book.
What say you?

Relationships

2009-10-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

These are 2 simple questions that I've felt I needed to answer for myself.
And I hope it can be of help for some out there.

Ask yourself:
1- What does God want out of my relationship?

2-What do I want out of a relationship?

I'll be honest, those 2 Q's came from a dating mind set.
But I believe that they could be applied for any kind of relationship.
Always know your motives. I think this can help you stay in check.

What do you think? Any other question that you would add?

How I see Mondays

2009-10-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share some thoughts on how I see Mondays.
To me, at this point of my life, Mondays are very important and detrimental to what my week will look like. The way I see it, you have 2 options:

1- Regular and Typical
This means you went to sleep late on Sunday night, resulting in waking up as late as you possibly can, and probably skipping out on working-out. Probably getting to work as late as you can, or as close to your work start time as you can. You drag your feet for the rest of the day.
Most people hate Mondays, they moan, wine and, procrastinate about waking up on time.

2-Discipline
This means Monday actually starts by going to sleep on time on Sunday nights. Whatever that time may be, as long as you get the needed amount of sleep to start fresh, and awake in the morning. If you do your work-out in the morning, you get to the gym early (at least 6am) and beat your body in to submission. Or you work-out in the afternoon. But you still have a healthy breakfast in the morning. And maybe even a devotional/reading/quiet time to get the week started.

To me these 2 different approaches to Mondays are a MAJOR factor to how my week will turn out. Sure, I could slack on Monday, and pick it up on Tuesday, but lets be honest, I'd just be lying to myself.
James 4:14 puts it clearly. Our life is like a mist, only around for a little while, and then it vanishes.
So why waste time? Why procrastinate and rationalize saying you'll do it tomorrow, or next week. I believe that those are the exact words that the enemy wants you to speak, and live by.
Paul lays it down in 1 Chorinthians 9:27. You have to beat your flesh in to submission.

Control your flesh, don't let your flesh take control of you.

What do you think?...

Full Set Change Time Laps

2009-09-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

Here is the video of the FULL set change time lapse. Over all it was a smooth build. Only running in to some minor cabling issues. It all came together calmly and on time.
Big shout out to all the volunteers and personnel that helped put it all together. I know that "you", the reader will most likely not know all the faces involved in this project. But Leave a comment so they may see your appreciation. Let this post stand as a recognition for their hard work and long hours of dedication :)
Also swing over to our Global Productions Director's blog: peterfitton.com to see the design layouts from the pre-production stage, up the complete build.

H&V FULL Set Change from YoelT on Vimeo.

Set Change

2009-09-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

Sunday after our last service at the Cooper City camps we began our set change to kick of the fall season. Here is a little time laps video of the tearing down. More to come soon... :)

D1 Sunday 9-6-09 Set Change from YoelT on Vimeo.

Blogger Book Study - Axiom [ak-see-uhm]

2009-08-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

Hellooooo leaders, and welcome back to the Blogger Book Study. We are in our final book, an a great one it is. Yesterday Pastor Matt "the man" Miller took us through some real god stuff.
So here we GO......

65. Lead With All Diligence
Diligent leaders communicate the vision for change.
They commit personally to paying the high price of leadership.
They roll up their sleeves, release their best energies, and pursue the vision with everything they have.
When leaders do this, they become a flicker of light in the expanse of blackness that we are surrounded in.
Progress hinges on diligent leaders, God's preferred method for transforming the world.

66. To The Core of My Being
I just have to quote what Hybels says here. Its gold.
"What do you believe in, to the very core of your being? If a particular issue elicits a passing opinion but not your most passionate activism, if it raises your curiosity but doesn't rile you up enough to do something about it, if it pricks your consciousness but wouldn't prompt you to take a bullet, then it's not a core-of-my-being issue. But if it sets off a seismic shift in your inner person that you can feel from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet, then you've bot a core-of-my-being issue on your hands." (WHAT....? that's crazy good)
What are the values or convictions that you feel to your toes?

67. Always Take The High Road
Provrebs 22:1 states that a good name is more desirable than great riches and that to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. But the only way to get that good name is by taking the road that most honors God, that most blesses people, and that leads to healthy and functional relationships long into the future.
When Hybels was the leaving his former church in the position of a youth leader. He agreed to write a resignation letter and read it before the congregation on his last Sunday. It included his frustrations, disappointments, and not-so-humble perspective on the church staff being incompetent. A week before giving the speech, and elder took him to lunch and Hybels shared what he would talk about on the letter. The elder told him take the high road, "Bless what you can bless. Thank everyone you can thank. Cheer on what is appropriate to cheer on. and be done with it.

68. Read All You Can
(I highly recommend that you read this axiom on your own time.)
Hybels addresses the issue that far to many leaders in high positions of responsibility neglect their need to read.
Romans 12:8 states that we are to "lead Diligently". Leaders have a responsibility before God to constantly get better, and one of the most reliable ways to do so is to read. Great leaders read frequently, viraciously. they read new releases. Soak up Military lessons, academia,politics, nongovernmental organizations, and from church leader who are leading well.
When you read you invite new info in to your subconscious mind.
If your a serious-minded leader, you will read. all that you can, when you feel like it, and when you don't. Because it will make you better.

69. Lead Something
Best way for leaders to get better is to lead something besides their "main thing".
Find a leadership opportunity that is complex, diverse, and consistent with your passions.
Its a form of cross training. Like weight lifting and running. When you use different muscles, you force your body to flex and develop in new ways.
Lead something besides your main thing. You will become a far more effective leader.

70. Arrive Early or Not At All
Promptness is about character, and leaders are not beyond the rules that govern things like courtesy and character.
There is no excuse for being late to a meeting. Any one can give a valid reason why they're running a bit behind. But it takes grace and relational intelligence to keep that reason at bay until you've first let the group members know that their feelings rank higher than your justification.

71. I'd Never Do This For Money
During some hard times in Hybels travels he found himself asking himself: "Why do I sign up for this?". Hybels recommends keeping in mind, and saying: "One thing is for sure: I would never do this for money!" It reminds him that God has called him to live that life.
1 Corinthians 15 Paul tells says that if there is no resurrection and no eternal rewards, then why don't we all just eat, drink, and be merry?

72. We Need Us All
Ministry can be a lot harder than building a business.
Paul knew this all to well. 2 Timothy 4:17 "the Lord stood at (his) side." During Paul's hard times God came near. God stood beside him. God carried him. God empowered him.
"Lean into the empowering presence of God and realize that you're not alone. Reach out to God, and he will reach out to you. He will encourage you. He will heal you up and set your feet back on course. He will rally other leaders to your side who will pray for you and walk with you."

Tomorrow we continue with the H (Heredes) man himself.

We Were Not Created "Anonymous"

2009-08-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

We were not created "Anonymous"
I'm writing this in response to recent comments by some anonymous anonymouses.

I generally like to know who I'm interacting with, especially online. Its so easy to hide your self behind your computer screen these days. You could make up a fake name, post someone else's picture, lie about your personal info. Make up some fictitious character.
When you talk to someone you don't cover your face, not allowing the other person to see you. you fully reveal who you are and with that, you give a face to the voice. Flesh to the sound or letters if your reading.
I just cant stand seeing a comment signed "Anonymous".

"Before I shaped you in the womb,
I knew all about you.
Before you saw the light of day,
I had holy plans for you:
A prophet to the nations—
that's what I had in mind for you."
(The Message - Jeremiah 1:5)

We are unique in Gods eyes. We've been set apart. God picked you LONG before the womb. He doesn't want you hiding your identity behind some keyboard.

So what are you really hiding? Take ownership of your words and your actions.
What are you scared of revealing? Are you a ghost? lol!!!.....

If your not willing to take ownership for your words then why bother leaving a comment?

Bloggers Book Study: How The Mighty Fall

2009-08-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

Once again welcome back to the Blogger Book Study. Today we will be looking in to Stage 5 of the fall and We'll Founded Hope. Lets dive in.

Stage 5: Capitulation To Irrelevance or Death
This is the Final stage of decline. The out of control downward spiral.
Bill Lazier, professor at Stanford stated "Never forget, You pay your bills with cash. You can be profitable and bankrupt"
There's 2 versions of Stage 5:
1- Those in power believe that capitulation offers a better overall outcome than continuing to fight.
2- Those in power continue the struggle, they run out of options, the enterprise dies, or shrinks into utter irrelevance.
By the time a company moves through Stages 1, 2, 3, and 4, those in power become exhausted, dispirited, and eventually abandon hope. And when you abandon hope, you should be preparing for the end.
Even some of the smartest and most capable leaders can find themselves unable to control their company's destiny if the accumulated impact of Stage 1-4 destroy their cash position.
If you cannot marshal a compelling answer to the Q: What would be lost, and how would the world be worse off, if we ceased to exist? then perhaps capitulation is the wise path.

Well-Founded Hope
Collins tells the story of the dark days of Xerox, when the company what in Stage 4. How they brought on Anne Mulcahy as a last resort. "Mulcahy could have perpetuated a Stage 4 doom loop by setting forth to utterly smash the culture and revolutionize the company overnight. Instead she, retorted to those who said she would need to kill the culture to save the company, "I am the culture. If I can't figure out how to bring the culture with me, I'm the wrong person for the job" (WOW) It was about Xerox, not about her.
Xerox. Nucor. IBM. Texas Instruments. Pitney Bowes. Nordstrom. Disney. Boeing. HP. Merck. They all took at least one tremendous fall at some point in its histroy and recovered.
In every case leaders emerged who broke the trajectory of deline and simply refused to give up on the idea of not only survival, but ultimate triumph despite the most extreme odds.
These leaders use decline as a Catalyst.
"A crisis is a terrible thing to waste"
If you have not yet fallen, beware the temptation to proclaim a crisis when none exists.
The right people will drive improvement, whether standing on a burning platform or not, and they never take well to manipulation.

Well thats it. I would encourage you to read throguh the book if you didn't theres lots of gold and incredible storys. Just to much to state here.
Hope you enjoyed the book and learning from it.
Next week Monday we kick of our final book of the Bloggers Book Study. Axiom by Bill Hybels and Pastor Troy will be starting it.

Broken Lens

2009-08-09T22:55:00.001-07:00

I broke my 2.8f lens. My one and only good lens.
It happened during the Leadership Summit 2009, which by the way was SICK, incredible, and refreshing. Sitting next to me on the counter top of the lighting board was my camera. We went to a lunch break, I grabbed my camera all excited to head downstairs and get some people shots. Little did I know that my strap had become tangled in something. As I walk away with my camera in my right hand I fell a tug and loose grip. It happened so fast I didn't even see it. The camera went flying, bouncing on a chair, then crashing to the ground. It landed lens first. Thank God for UV filters, it took the impact and dented on one side, smashing the UV glass. None of the glass inside the lens actually cracked. But the iris ring came apart completely, those are the small metal pieces inside the lens. The zoom and focus are jammed, i believe because of the out of place iris.

I didn't want to think about it all day long. Compared to other lenses, my lens is a cheap lens. But I treated it like gold. It killed me to see how fast something that I loved and treasured, that I had invested money in to, just be destroyed in seconds.

Some hope has been restored when I learned that there's a local, trustworthy, repair shop in town. I'll see what they say. If its too much to repair then I'll have to consider options on purchasing a new lens.

Drawing the Line

2009-08-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

I've been in full time ministry now for 1yr and 7months. I know its not long, hang with me, this is not a life lesson, its a question.
As the months have come and gone, I'm realizing that this is a major balancing act.
On one side I work in the live production side of ministry, so that means that long hours to get the job done will most definitely happen. That's just the nature of the job, the territory that comes with it.
Then there's family time. Long hours + get home late + less time with the fam = mom being very angry. Although my family understands and is grateful of the job God has provided at Flamingo, its still hard at times.
And on the other side is friends. I don't want to do life alone, and I really enjoy spending time with friends. Whether it be a simple night of hanging together, or a trip over to Naples to check out the beach.
So I've been trying to find a happy balance. But I know that as a production guy, I will never find a happy balance. My schedule will continually change and move around. I don't even have a set day off, its either Tuesdays or Fridays depending on the weeks work shedule and the things on the to-do list.
I'm not saying all this to complain. Not at all! I LOVE my job. I cant believe that God has given me, sinful and in need of healing, this blessing and major responsibility.
I just want to hear from you out there. Yes you reading this post.
How do you do it? How do you balance it all together? Is there a system, a formula? What advice can you share?

Here's a pic of the fam on my brothers wedding day :)

Getting Things Done Chapter 11

2009-07-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

Once again welcome back to the Bloggers Book Study. Yesterday Genie Mo covered Chapters 9 & 10 of Getting Things Done by David Allen. Today we will be going over chapter 11. The following 3 chapters is an account of the the authors experience over his years of implementing and the principles we have been learning about.

Chp 11 - The Power of the Collection Habit
-The Personal Benefit
Having too much to do is not the source of the negative feelings we experience. We always have too much to do. Right? Negative feelings come from a different place.
Broken agreements can hurt you, in your personal feelings, and in the trust others put in you.
If your negative feelings come from broken agreements, here's 3 ways you can deal with them and do away with the negative feelings:

Don't make the agreement: One way to do this is to lower your standards..... but we all know that's just not going to happen. Don't lower your standards but understand what it means to take make an agreement at the level your standards are, and then you'll probably make fewer agreements.

Complete the agreement: Just finish it and be able to mark it off as done. We all love the feeling of wining. Satisfy it by giving yourself doable tasks you can start and finish easily. BUT remember the catch-22: the better you get, the better you'd better get. That leads us to the third one.

Renegotiate the agreement: A renegotiated agreement is not a broken one. Write them down on the to-do-list, and prioritize.

Every agreement must be made conscious. Captured, objectified, and reviewed regularly so it can be placed in its right self-management area.
You'll feel better collecting anything that you haven't collected yet.

-When Relationships and Organizations Have the Collection Habit
We have to trust that any request on a v-mail, in an e-mail, a conversation, or written note will get into the other persons system, processed, and organized, fast, and available for their review as an option for action.
Organizations suffer from serious "interruptitis" because they can't trust putting comminications into the system.
We cant legislate personal systems. But you can hold people accountable for outcomes, and for tracking and managing everything that comes their way.

So that wraps up Chp 11. Theirs some very useful life lessons that we can definitely apply in our jobs and homes. Its good to have the "how to" and then the life lessons to look out for all in one book.
Tune in tomorrow over at Miguel's blog for chapter 12

Running Again

2009-07-24T23:25:00.000-07:00

I've started to run again. After some mental wrestling on the idea, and finding the will to wake up early, I've started up again.
Something about running in the outdoors that really enjoy. I cant stand running in the gym on a treadmill and looking at a wall the entire time. I have to get outside, smell the air, feel the heat (south FL its always hot), see the scenery and feel the ground underneath my feet. Actually see the progress that I'm making, not some little line of red dots circling on the treadmill display.
Aside from that I took my camera and tripod with me. Mind you its around 6-7AM so you have the beautiful sun rushing through the landscape. I still think our sunsets are much more beautiful, but that's another blog post.
So I decided to try and take some HDR's, which you can view HERE And I found a great spot to sit, read, and reflect!

To Copyright or not to Copyright

2009-07-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

Here's the deal. At my photo gallery found at yoeltphotography.smugmug.com
I keep most of my albums with a copyright block. That means that you cant drag and drop on to your desktop, or right click and save a picture that you want.
I don't see why I should give free reign for anyone to come and take whatever they want. Or worse, taking on of my pics and claiming ownership over the work.
But at the same time there are a bunch of sites out there that allow you to take the pictures freely.
Of course if there are any albums of a photo shoot with models, it would have a copyright.
I've been wrestling with this idea ever since I opened the site.
What do you think?
Copyright or no Copyright, and why?

Weekend Shots

2009-07-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

These were 2 snaps that I just had to post from this past weekend at FRC

Pastor Ricky right before the musical climax of the worship service

And Vocalist Rebeca holding little baby Christian! Big time "AWWWW"

Bloggers Book Study Day 12

2009-07-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome everybody. Thanks for following along on this Blogger Book Study journey.
Yesterday Genie started us off on our second book titled: Crazy Love by: Francis Chan. She covered Chapters 1-2. Catch up if your behind! And don't forget theirs a really cool video complimentary site that follows the book found here.
Today we will be covering Chapter 3-4. So here we go!

Chp 3 "Crazy Love"
"If you've spent any time in church, you've heard expressed, in some form or another, the idea that God loves us." Chan explains how for years he got the concept in his head but didn't fully understand it in his heart. Most of us to some degree have a difficult time understanding, believing, or accepting God's absolute and unlimited love for us. For Chan It had a lot to do with his relationship with his father.

dad and DAD
The concept of being loved by a father was foreign to Chan. Chan's mother died while giving birth to him. His father showed almost no affection. Chan always tried not to annoy him. He believes a lot of those emotions transferred to his relationship with God. He had no aspiration of being wanted by God; "I was just happy not to be hated or hurt by Him".
But his relationship took a major turn when he became a father himself. "For the first time I got a taste of what God feels toward us". Through this experience he came to understand that his desire for his children is only... (love this though) "a faint echo of God's great love for me and for every person He made." He states: "How could I not trust a heavenly, perfect Father who loves me infinitely more than I will ever love my kids? -Matthews 7:11

In Love with the One I Fear
It was easy for Chan to relate to any verse that would describe Gods overwhelming greatness or His wrath. If there was one word to describe his feelings about God in his first Christian years, it would be fear.
Jesus didn't command that we have a regular time with Him each day. "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" -Matt. 22:37-38. God doesn't want us to respond with a cursory "quiet time" plagued by guilt, but with true love expressed through our lives.
Chan still fears God, but uses words like reverent intimacy to describe how he feels about God.

Wanted
Chan took a trip to the woods with the desire to grow in His love for God. He had been realizing that his belief in Gods love was only theoretical. He ended up spending four days in the woods with out speaking to anyone. No plan or agenda. On the first day he opened his Bible and it fell open to Jeremiah 1. After reading the passage he meditated on it for the next four days. Verses 4 and 5 took him to another level:
"The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart: I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
(WOW) "Take some time to really think about it... God knew you and me before we existed." God has been with us from well before the start. (it gets better) The following assured him he didn't need to worry about failure:
"But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, "I am only a child." You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant." -Jeremiah 1:6-10

A Strange Inheritance
The holy Creator sees us as His "glorious inheritance"- Eph. 1:18. And yet Jesus doesn't have to love us. He doesn't need me or you. He is complete and perfect.
The funny part is that while God doesn't need us but still wants us, we desperately need God but dont't really want Him most of the time.

Do I have a Choice?
"Why would a loving God force me to love Him? He threatens me with hell and punishment if I don't begin a relationship with Him." This was a questioned asked to Chan by a college student. Chan responded: If God is truly the greatest good on this earth, would He be loving us if He didn't draw us toward what is best for us (even if that happens to be Himself)? (i had to read that one like 10 times to get it.)
Chan wraps up Chp. 3 with a series of questions that force us to think about the way that we really love God.
Do you love this God who is everything, or do you just love everything He gives you?
Are you in love with God or just His stuff?
How awful would it feel to have your child say to you, "I don't really love you or want your love, but I would like my allowance, please."
How great is it to have the one you love look you in the eye and say, "I love you. Not your beauty, your money, your family, or your car. Just you."
Can you say that to God?

Chp 4 "Profile of the Lukewarm"
Even though we could die any moment and mostly think our puny lives are pretty sweet compared to Him, He persists in loving us with unending, outrageous love.
Jesus would question the authenticity of big crowds when they would start to gather around Him. He would speak in parables so that those who weren't genuinely wouldn', get it. Jesus just wasn't interested on those who fake it.
A relationship with God simply cannot grow when money, sins, activities, favorite sports teams, addictions, or commitments are piled on top of it.
Would you describe yourself as totally in love with Jesus Christ? or do the words halfhearted, lukewarm, and partially committed fit better?
Chan goes on to offer a description on what halfhearted, lukewarm, and partially committed lukewarm people look like. Their are to many examples to put all down on here. But I will give you the Biblical verses he uses and what it touches on.
Church attendance -Isa. 29:13
Tithe -1 Chron. 21:24, Luke 21:1-4
What God thinks of your heart and lives -Luke 6:26, Rev. 3:1, Matt. 23:5-7
Sin and Salvation -John 10:10, Rom. 6:1-2
Acting radically -James 1:22, James 4:17, Matt. 21:28-31
Sharing your faith -Matt. 10:32-33
Gagging Morality -Luke 18:11-12

These are just a couple. He touches on many more. Bottom line is that a lukewarm, halfhearted following is useless, it sickens our souls. Jesus didn't that if you want to follow Him you could do it in a lukewarm manner. He said "Take up your cross and follow me".

Well that wraps up Chapters 3-4. I know it was a bit long, but I hope you were able to get some good stuff out of it. Tomorrow Stacie will continue with chapters 5-6.

U2 360 TOUR OPENING NIGHT BARCELONA

2009-07-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

SPOILER ALERT: This video does have professional concert footage.
You've been warned, prepare to be blown away!

Bono talking about U2 360

2009-06-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

Found this cool little video. Bono speaking about the new stage design and his view on music, and his motivation for getting out of bed in the morning.
Share your thoughts!

Armstrong/Numbers

2009-06-29T23:10:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this video.
A reminder that we don't do it to prove critics wrong, we do it for the people that need hope!
If you catch my drift, I'm talking about the church. We don't baptize 300+ people on 1 weekend because we want attention, or to prove wrong anyone who said it cant be done. We do it because someone has to address the need, the hurting, the ones searching. The numbers are just a guide to help us stay focused on the Vision. BUT the numbers are stories of life change, repentance, forgiveness, brokenness.

Bloggers Book Study

2009-06-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Today we are starting the first ever Bloggers Book Study. 6 books, 12 really cool leaders and leadHers! I have to say I'm very excited about this. I'm really looking forward to learning from all these books, and on top of that being able to talk, comment, and share our ideas amongst the blogger community. Jump in and follow along. You can find the schedule here. Head on over to H's blog to follow the journey. We begin with Courageous Leadership by Bill Hybels.

TOMS

2009-06-16T22:57:00.000-07:00

"With every pair you purchase TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need" That's what TOMS shoes is all about, "One for One".
My pair arrived in the mail today, and I was supper excited to pull them out of the box and try them on. I have to say, I'm in love with them. They stand for something more than feet support, or a fashion statement, although that is what some might think with all there simple yet stylish designs. TOMS is all about putting shoes on the feet of kids who don't have any. Kids who walk the streets of their towns barefoot who are at risk of cuts, and infections. Its simple!

Im Back!

2009-05-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hey Friends,
Forgive me for the long absence. I'm sure lots of you missed me, and weeped for my absence. But I promise you the blog silence was well worth it. I was getting really annoyed with the pressure to update, keep cool, fresh and, entertaining. I've learned a couple of things over the past about blogging. But one of them will be my main vision. It goes a little like this.... Be my self! I know its crazy, you're thinking I've lost my mind. But that was the opposite of what i was doing. Or at least I had the wrong image about blogging.
So stick around and well see where this goes. Here are two cool snaps from my trip to Spain. Find much more by clicking on the "Snaps" tab above.

HDR Update

2009-03-09T19:50:00.000-07:00

I've had this one on my HD for some time, just thought I'd share it.

My First HDR Edit

2009-02-13T22:15:00.001-08:00

I've been messing around with a post-process called High Dynamic Range (HDR). Its simply taking 3 or 5 RAW shots at different exposure levels, then blending them together and adjusting the contrast ratios to do things that are virtually impossible with a single aperture and shutter speed.
This is only my first one. Something I put together to experiment. You can see the real force of this process here.

February 5, 2009 = 1 Year

2009-02-04T22:12:00.000-08:00

On February 5 of 2008 I began a new journey, the pursuit of a passion! Today is February 5 of 2009, marking the one year anniversary of when God opened the doors and provided me a job at FRC. I can still remember my first day like if it was just yesterday. I was nervous, little shy, and a little scared. I thought to my self "what have I gotten in to? can I really do this?". But they were merely doubts from the enemy.
I cant continue to describe the journey with out letting you know that it was ONLY possible because of God's love, and that this is NOT about me, but about what God has done through a sinful, broken, un-perfect and, in need of rescue, average 21yr old.
Thought out this one year (that felt like one month) so much has happened. Gods placed so many incredible, encouraging and, truly passionate leaders in my path. So many live have been changed because of the work that He's done through Flamingo.
I've had the privileged to meet former lighting director of Lake Wood Church, Tom Stanziano, and pick his brain for a whole day.
We've been able to establish some great relationships with great dealers. Especially with our good friends at Everlast Productions.
I look back and I say "wow", but know that this is just the start of this journey. And God still has lots of more "wow's" to reveal, each one greater than the previous.

Before and After LOST

2009-02-01T23:58:00.000-08:00

Here's what I looked like before and after LOST Season 5.

Fav Newly Discovered Blogs

2009-01-28T20:53:00.000-08:00

This whole photography hobby is really picking up. I'm taking a Digital photography class on Sat mornings and, even made a purchase on a lens. Along the way I've stumbled on some really cool blogs (and I mean stumbled, I wasn't even intentionally looking for them).
Here are my Fav Newly Discovered Blogs:
Vincent Laforet - Very famous photographer.
Jeremy Cowart - The guy who shot the WHOLE Passion World Tour.
The Big Picture - The News with beautiful photography.
TwipPhoto - Tips and, tricks for photographers. Thanks to H
Vandelay Design - Tricks and, tutorials for designers. Thanks to HER

The Listening Part 2

2009-01-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

The new "The Listening" EP has arrived. And I even got a little personal Happy 2009 wish on the receipt. Totally awesome tracks. You must check them out. I cant wait till the full album is released.

Mac Book Click Wheel

2009-01-07T19:22:00.001-08:00

OMG this thing is awesome! LOL

Apple Introduces Revolutionary New Laptop With No Keyboard

The Listening

2009-01-04T22:08:00.000-08:00

And you say.... "The WHAT????..."
Yes! The Listening
A band that I have grown up with.
From: The Rock & Roll Worship Circus
To: The Listening
about 2 years they faded away. Fell apart, disintegrated!
Now they have returned with new members. But the same vocalist.
New E.P. is titled "Transmission 1"
There style of music is very hard to describe, you just have to experience it for your self!

Christmas services

2008-12-25T21:07:00.000-08:00

So here they are. The Christmas Service pictures. My friend Miguel sat front row during one of the services and got all the really close up ones.

Christmas Service

Canon Rebel XTi

2008-12-21T22:18:00.000-08:00

So I found a digital SLR! I'm so happy with the new toy.

Christmas Weekend

2008-12-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

This is just the begging of our Christmas montage of services. Check out the link for pics of the weekend.
We STILL have a bunch of services to do on the 23rd and 24th, and you can find the best time that works for you HERE!

Christmas Weekend

Jamba Revolution

2008-12-19T21:37:00.000-08:00

Tonight we had the opportunity to Gift Revolutionize Jamba Juice in Westone. Great juice and rocking music. Check out the pics here:

Jamba Revolution

Jingle Bell Jog

2008-12-09T06:57:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday the FRC Gift Revolution running team got together for The 24th Annual Jingle Bell Jog 5K run. We were all very surprised to do better than our last run after our staff day. I came in @ 00:29:43, thats a 1:06 difference from The 6th Annual Jingle Down Mainstreet of 00:30:49.

Dead ipod

2008-12-03T19:56:00.001-08:00

I never thought the day would come, but it has. My 4th generation ipod has reached its end. So sad!... I even changed the battery on it a few months ago. I'm going to miss this little guy. They laughed at me because it was old school, but I love the little guy. :(

Sat - Pastor Troy - NBC6

2008-11-28T19:39:00.000-08:00

Don't miss it!

THE Series

2008-11-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

Have you not heard? Are you serious? Listen up because you don't want to miss this.
On November 22-23, FRC will be starting the BIGGEST series that we've EVER done.
You DON'T want to miss it!
You DON'T want to miss the opening weekend on NOV. 22-23!
You DON'T want to miss THE opening song. Its MORE than a song!
You DON'T want to let YOUR friends AND family miss out on this!
PLEASE don't miss out on this
This is more than a series, Its a movement!

The Real Deal

2008-11-11T20:26:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I was approached by one of our FRC Production Team volunteers.
Volunteer: Mr. Torres, are you a coffee drinker?
me: yea, I am. (thanks to FRC. lol)
Volunteer: Well here you go:

me: ARE YOU SERIOUS?
Volunteer: yes, for you my friend.
He gave me a bag of Juan Valdez Premium Colombian Coffee, FROM COLUMBIA. I made some tonight. Let me tell you, I'm no coffee expert, but this stuff is GOOD :)

Caption please

2008-11-11T16:50:00.001-08:00

Like the new highlights?

New Cross Belt

2008-10-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Like it? Find it at The Source, on the FRC Cooper City campus.
PS: It only comes in black, white one is just an edited pic.

Bankrupt Without LOVE

2008-10-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

Its funny how God will randomly remind us that He's still listening and still taking care of the things that we loose sleep over. This morning during my devotional, I happened to open up to a subject that I've been wrestling with. It was just what I needed to read.
OR is it just us how forget Hes ALWAYS taking care of it, and Hes just trying to get our attention....?

Frist 5K

2008-10-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

For those that don't know a 5K is a 3.1mile race. I've been training with friends from FRC in the early mornings when the most of the world is still sleeping.
I came in 5th place for my age group (20-24), with a time of 00:33:22. I'm really looking forward to our next one.

G1

2008-10-26T20:54:00.001-07:00

I got a G1!

Relevant Magazine

2008-10-24T18:53:00.000-07:00

My first issue of Relevant Magazine. LOVE IT! This thing is packed with tons of cool info.

Reading

2008-10-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,
I know I've deserted my blog for the past weeks. No excuse can make it right.
I just want to share with you the books that I plan on reading before the year ends. Tell me what you think, have you read them?
1- Velvet Elvis - Rob Bell
2- Pop Goes The Church - Tim Stevens
3- The Barbarian Way - Erwin McManus
4- The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership - John C. Maxwell
5- The Irresistible Revolution - Shane Claiborne
For me this is a lot. I'm just getting in to reading. So its a big fight with my flesh. But this is what I feel that God has put in me to read before the new year.

On the Hunt

2008-10-07T20:30:00.001-07:00

Hey friends, I'm on the hunt for a good deal. Anybody in to photography? I'm interested in purchasing a Digital SLR camera. If anyone knows of any great deals out there, please let me know. And of any good sites that teach you how to work with Digital SLR's. It be greatly appreciated.

Sawgrass and Beach Baptism

2008-10-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

Lats weekend I got back in from vacation. I took the opportunity to visit FRC's Sawgrass campus for the first time. I was only able to do this because of Kevis, one of our lighting volunteers who programed and executed (with high excellence) the entire service. Seriously he blew me away.
Back to Sawgrass campus now. I arrive at the movie theater around 7ish, already there was a bunch of volunteers hard at work. About 9:00am a bunch of people start poring in the auditorium. I ask one of the volunteers, what time do you guys start? are those people early? He replies, no those ARE the volunteers. By this time I'm freaking out, so many people coming together on an early Sunday morning to set up church. AWESOME!
After that was a small visit to Cooper City, and then Beach Baptism. Which was just AWESOME as well.

Vacation Recap

2008-09-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

I am so happy I was able to go on vacation with my family. It was SO re-energizing and relaxing. You can check out the some pics by clicking on the pic.

Vacation

In Grand Cayman we swam with sting rays, and even kissed them (they say its good luck). At Ocho Rios, we climbed Duns fall. It was freezing cold, but SO cool. And on Friday as we headed back to Miami, for the most of the day we were passing by Cuba. We were just around 20 miles from the shore, birds where in the air, and even saw some dolphins playing around in the water. So close but yet so far.
Lots of GREAT food of course. But, I kept my word on working out and running. I did so 3 times in the week.

Vacation

2008-09-16T18:18:00.001-07:00

Only 5 more days left till my family and I go on vacation in one of these.

We will be gone for one whole week. I cant wait for it. Just to get away and unplug. I'm going to force my self to continue my early morning routine of running and working out. I don't want to fall behind with my morning team. Being on a curies is no excuse to slack and sleep in. But its going to be a real fight against my flesh.

The weekend madness!

2008-09-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

Where the heck do I begin this? I am really excited to say that this past weekend ALL the lighting programing was done by Kevis. It was a big weekend with all the new faces and friend invitations, so we both knew it had to be big. Needless to say he really stepped up to the challenge and came through. It was a week of amazing life change, you could just feel the church buzzing with love. We OVER filled two big trucks with caned foods and drinking water, for disaster reliefs in Haiti. Truly a church out to make a dent in this world. You could feel that you where a part of something bigger than yourself, something that we cant do on our own.
Check out the pics and videos.
What was the highlight of this weekend for you?

Deadly Viper Character Assassins

2008-09-02T06:39:00.000-07:00

Started reading this book last Friday. And along with it got the FREE audio book here. This book is unbelievable. It truly tares you apart piece by piece. They also have a blog. Anybody read it? Thoughts? Comments?

Sarasota for the weekend

2008-09-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

Sarasota has always been a special little place for us. Its not like anything really special has happened but we've been coming here for about 10 years now. First time we just stooped to check it out, the sun was setting and we saw dolphins on the horizon. Perfect movie scene. Second time we spot a manatee and its baby's just a couple feet from the shore.
I attempted getting a tan and failed, safe to say I wont try it again. My skins not cut out for that. I'm happy being "glow" white. LOL
Do you have a special place you go with family? Share the secrets!

Kenny Chesney

2008-08-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend a Kenny Chesney concert on Thursday. I went with a couple of friends who were Americans, and Kevis. Just think about that for a sec. I'm Cuban (born there) and Kevis is from Trinidad (also born in Trini). So it was very safe to say that the diversity factor at the concert was just Kevis and I. What an experience it all was. In the crowd we saw a lot of... weird, strange, and shocking behaviors. Lost of beer drinking people just totally getting wasted and doing foolish things. But all in all the production was UNbelievable. The biggest I've ever experienced. Now mind you Kevis and I were ALL the way back on the lawn and it was still an amazing concert.

It was all worth it.

2008-08-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hey friends, my apologies for the blog silence. I've been trying to find the words to sum up this past weekend here at FRC but there's just too much to be summed up in one word. It seems that every time I say that "I just had the toughest weekend" another one comes along and beats it. So this weekend was definitely the hardest so far. We had what seemed like 50 projects to get done before the weekend arrived. Which lead to many hours thinking and figuring out the best way to do them, and MANY late hours. I pushed my self to the limit and found my head pushing back. By Friday night or should I saw Sat. morning I was totally fried. And after a couple of hour of rest, Saturday morning my head was pounding. I realized that all I really needed was sleep, my head was fighting me for it, so I rested for some more hours.
In the end I made it to all the services, all the equipment worked as it needed to. And we baptized 150+ people. Truly UN-believable. I came face to face with learning that NO work done for the lord goes in vain. The result's were really worth it all. And if you asked me if I would do it all over again, I would say yes, but just let me sleep a little more LOL!!!!

Velvet Revolver

2008-08-14T22:37:00.001-07:00

If you follow istacie's blog, She started a book study, and asked if anybody wanted to join her on the journey in reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell. At first I wasn't sure if I really wanted do it. I take long to read books, and feared falling behind the study. But after a little convincing and research I decided to go for it. I had really been trying to figure out which way God wanted me to go, and this feels right. Has anyone read Velvet Elvis before? Thoughts, comments?

Radio

2008-08-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

Just curious! Do you listen to the radio these days?
I found my self listening to the radio yesterday for the first time after a LONG time. I was just tired of my CD, and wanted to hear something different. I've also heard a rummer that if you are driving and are sleepy it helps listening to people talking on the radio. Do you think this is true? anyone tried it?

Weekend and Post weekend over-view

2008-08-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

So by far, hands down, the past weekend and post-weekend days where some of the most brutal work days that I've done at FRC. I kid you not guys. We put some serious hours in to getting ready for the Leadership Summit, and the first weekend of The Princes and The Warrior. In the end, everything worked out GREAT. HARD work PAYS off. It was by far the fastest set build (for its magnitude) that I've done. I even got to pet the tiger. And security cameras caught Danny playing a PINK guitar.

Team work and new set

2008-08-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Today was pretty cool. This week was the last weekend of the My Naked Church.com series at FRC. So you know what that means?.... Set change. After our last service on Sunday, we called in the team and broke down the set. There was a good amount of stuff on that stage, mostly lighting, heehee! But with the great team that we have we were able to remove it all down pretty fast I must say, I was very surprised. Unfortunately I have no pictures to share of today's work, sorry, its hard to orchestrate a big change like this and take pictures. After we cleaned the stage off everything, we began to bring out the new set which had been sitting in our back stage area for some time. Its a BIG set and I am really excited to finally use it. We were able to put up one of the heavier sides. And it was all possible through team work. We really had fun working today. And I believe I speak for all who were there, we had a couple of scary moments. You'll see what I mean when you see the set, and then wonder how the heck we did it. I will try to get some pics in the coming days as the set is still not completed.

Another great offer.

2008-08-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a blogger friend I was able to find out about an incredible offer. The 268Generation (the guys responsible for the Passion Conference's) have an incredible offer going on at there online store. They are selling Chris Tomlin and, Charlie Hall's new albums, and David Crowder's new live DVD All for only 25$ and no shipping charge.
I have to say that this is just an awesome offer. And it shows a lot about these guys and how they feel about selling there merchandise. For them its not about how many copy's they sell, or at what price to sell it at. But its about getting these awesome resources in the hands of the people that need it and be blessed by it. And that's awesome. It was the same with Hillsongs special offer on there new DVD and CD, they didn't charge shipping even after it was coming from the other side of the world.

New Backpack

2008-07-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

After hours of searching, talking amongst fri ends (one who wanted me to join the "cult of meegee"), looking around in stores (one that was pumping ridiculous amounts of gangsta bass, you'd be shocked if I told you the store name) and felling sick of trying to decide on what to buy, I found it.
And it was just the price I had in mind. Really good protection for the laptop and room for books, cables and, whatever I can through at it. Super comfortable padding tricks you in to thinking your gear weighs half what it really is.
So HP, I think I'll pass on the pink with white bunny one, Thanks :)
PS: It looks cooler than the picture!

LEAD

2008-07-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the link if you don't know what its about. I cant wait for it.

Backpack

2008-07-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

I'm looking to get a backpack with laptop protection. No not for school. I'm starting to carry books with me now and my current case doesn't really have space for books. I really want to protect my gear, so its got to have good all around padding, and space for books, cables, and all that jazz. Anybody have any suggestions, tips, advise?

SOLO

2008-07-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

I had been wanting to get The Message bible for some time now. And after telling a good friend about this while we were at a Barnes & Noble, he recommended SOLO. Its a bible, in the message version, and a daily devotional. It revolves around lection divina, or "divine reading", "an ancient approach to exploring scripture updated for today's students". This caught my attention because I remember reading about it back in Praise Habit, and that was a pretty good book I must say. So I'm really excited to start this journey full of God surprises.
Whats your favorite bible version? and care to share on any good devotionals?

Limited Edition MacBook Air Pro Slim!

2008-07-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

If you've been following my posts lately. I've been craving a Mac, any type would make me a happy guy. So my good friend decided to fulfill my wish on my birthday by getting me a "Limited Edition MacBook Air Pro SLIM". This thing is so sick. I could not believe it. Its so light weight and flexible, yes I said flexible. SO flexible that I'm scared of damaging the Nanotechnology. Check it out. Tell me what you think.

21

2008-07-18T19:28:00.001-07:00

I had really been debating on whether to post this or not. I felt like it wouldn't feel humble, or something like that. But here it is.
On Monday the 21st I will turn 21, and we all know what that means right? PARTY TIME WOO HOO, (NO, not really). But I've been thinking, more like counting blessings. I'm going to be 21, and I have to say that I'm happy where my life is and where God has put me. I'm not saying that this is it, I'm just saying I didn't expect to be where I am today at this age. I'm so thankful for what Hes given me, where Hes placed me, and the people Hes placed me with to do life with. I'm so thankful for what Hes doing inside of me, teaching me things like humbleness and patience. Its really hard at times, and to be honest, sometimes I fight it because I don't understand it. But we all know the out come when its Gods will.
One year ago I was in Orlando, at a school that I had to fight for and convince my parents to let me go. I knew it was a risky and very expensive decision that I would have to pay back out of my own pocket. But I made a choice, I listened to the passion that God had placed in my heart. I wanted to work for a church. I wanted to see lives touched and changed, not by my work, but by Gods word through me. So I left home at the age of 20. To most people, that sounds normal, but to a kid who grew up in a Cuban home, that was big. It was hard and painful on my parents, but they understood and saw that this was not just my passion but something only God had inspired. Even I didn't fully understand the plan, but I knew that I had to trust Gods promises.
Fast forward one year later, and here I am. Working at Flamingo Road Church. Seeing lives touched, transformed, and changed every week. I cant help but to thank God for His promises. In light of all that we go through, all the troubles and situations that life brings, God is still WAY much bigger that them. In light of His glory, they become nothing. God always fulfills his promises.
And now for the fun part of this post. Thanks for reading this far in to this, I know its longer than normal. All this week my parents and brother have been asking me what I want for my B-day! And I don't really know. So, here's where you the reader come in. What do you think would be a great birthday present for a 21yr old? Or if you have past 21, looking back what would you recommend?

Hills album finally arives

2008-07-15T18:51:00.001-07:00

It has finally arrived. Some time back I told you guys about the great deal that was offered on the Hillsong web site for the new album. I ordered the CD/DVD and was anxiously waiting for its arrival. Got home today and there it was, all I needed to see was the postage sticker and that was it, i knew where it was from. I freaked out, literally.
So I watched the DVD, expecting it to blow me away. And I tell you that words cant describe this recording. You really have to sit down catch your breath and allow your self to be consumed by the Gods presence. God truly showed up at this album recording and you can see and hear it all over the album and video. Just listen to the people cry out.

Breaking News: Rocky Raccoon Vs. The Cat Mob

2008-07-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

Cooper City, Florida, FRC court yard. People watched as Rocky Raccoon and the Cat Mob engaged in a battle. Sources say that Rocky Raccoon approached the Cat Mob in search of food, but got more than a mouth full. The Cat Mob did not welcome his presence in there "turf" and retaliated by engaging in a claw and fist fight. Rocky Raccoon was then seen very upset and confused, and with a daring attempt decided to fight back, taking on part of the 20,000 member's from the Cat Mob. It started in the open, and quickly moved in to the bushes. Making it hard for anyone to see. Eye witnesses report seeing the trees shaking. We assume that the fighting continued inside the bushes and that possibly more members of the Cat Mob joined in. We know that there has been much heated tension between the two parties, and neither one welcomes the presence of the other on the campus. Some witnesses have even reported seeing graffiti tags around the area, in a fight from both parties to mark their territory. We all hope that the two parties can come to a peace agreement and share the campus.

A band called Delirious?

2008-07-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

We all have one band/artist, that we have always loved. From the start, this band of ours has been the one. The one with all the right lyrics, the one with all the right tones, right chords, harmonies and melodies. The one that always takes us to that special place.
For me it has always been Delirious. From as far back as I can remember I have always been listening to there tunes. I remember when I first started playing music, it was delirious who influenced me.
Early Sunday morning I check my e-mail and there it was. The news! At the end of 2009, Delirious will take a break from recording and playing as a band. You can read all about it here. Its a real sad thing for me. I haven't even seen them live. And I can only hope that the opportunity comes before its to late.

Remodeling (Part 1) REVISITED

2008-07-01T19:52:00.000-07:00

We are still in the part 1 faze of the remodeling. But I needed to add a little something after today. I get home today and the first thing I noticed was the noise level as I opened the door. The noise of some super loud fan, or something. Well this was what was causing this noise, but more like five of them:

The insurance company sent these over to SUCK up the humidity, because of the exposed soil and sand. I know right, the insurance peps actually did something! LOL.
Anyways, what I really got a kick out of these Turbo Dryer Air Sucking Beasts was there on/off button. Not just on and off, but on (I), off (O), and this (II). I thought it was funny.

Remodeling (Part 1)

2008-06-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

Today my parents started remodeling the main bathroom at the house. I came home around 8 and my mom was still cleaning up. So i jumped in like the good son I am and helped out, LOL. But the house is a mess. The first step was to remove the old drainage pipe. It was metal, so it was all corroded.
This is what it looks like:

This is the hole that they had to make right behind the front door to get it out:

And then another one inside of the bathroom. Its crazy. But I'm happy that we are finally redoing that bathroom.

My Mii

2008-06-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

What do you think?

Lots of gear (Part 2) "The Service Pictures"

2008-06-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

For those who are wondering where you can see some pics of the crazy lighting we've had at church for the past weekends, I haven't placed them on my Picasa web album (way to many, and to lazy) if you want to see them check out my Facebook album. There's also albums with pics of our Doral, Hallandale, and Sawgrass campus.

New album from Hill's coming soon

2008-06-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

For those who know me, know that I love all things Hillsong. They truly are a church that God has his hand upon and continues to pore out His blessings over them. Talking to Pastor Allen about there opening of there new campus in Cape Town Africa and he descried it in these words: "what ever they touch turns to gold". On the campuses first service they had 5...that's right FIVE services, over 3,000 people, and 200+ decisions for Christ. Incredible!
But to get to the tittle of this blog (sorry for deviating) Hillsong has recorded there new live album titled "This Is Our God". Check out the video on the link. I was so touched by the story.

update: I pre-ordered it. They have a SICK deal. You get the CD+live DVD, free download of one of the songs (run), and the best thing is there is no shipping charge......YEA no shipping charge, so you save like $25.

Yes to Mac

2008-06-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

No I have not gone crazy. For those of you who really know me, know that I have always liked the Mac apps and the shiny stuff, BUT would never buy a Mac computer. Well I have to say that I've had a change of heart, I decided that my next laptop will be a Mac. No I'm not smoking anything, I've just seen the light. I thank all the Mac users at FRC for this. They've explained it and made it look fun and easy. When will this purchase be made? you ask! Well my current laptop is a DELL Inspiron with some nice hardware. So nettles to say the purchase wont happen till my DELL give out, and when I can afford it.
So for the time being I found this Mac skin. see for your self: FlyakiteOSX. and here's what my new desktop looks like.

Coldplay album + t-shirt

2008-06-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

This morning Heredes and I obtained Coldplays new album at Circuit City. I wont say what location because we cleaned out there stock of CD's and the free t-shirts (sorry to anyone who came after us). We both got a copy of our own but needed all the others in stock for some (shhhhh) give aways (cant say where either).

Lots of gear

2008-06-10T18:00:00.001-07:00

Hello readers,
I know I haven't very steady on this whole blog thing for the past weeks. My apologies, I haven't been my self with out my parents around, And life's ups and downs. Well today mom and dad are finally home (funny how my last post was when they left). So I'm starting to feel a little normal.So as some of you have heard or seen, the church has been blessed with a bunch Rental of lighting equipment. That's right, we cant keep it :(. But it will be around for some time. I just have to say that this is an awesome blessing. For most LD's (Lighting Designers) a rig (truss, shinny metal that holds the lights in the air, and all the lights them self) like this one is a pure dream. It is a "concert rig", equivalent to the amount of lights you are likely to see if you go see..... lets say United, John Mayer, Tomlin, Crowder,...... you get the point. Today I got to turn everything on and take them "for a spin", and ofcourse I had to show off a little when ever some one came by.
Here's a pic of the load in on Monday. Consider it a teaser. :)

2008-05-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

This is my mom, dad and, my bother on his weeding day. Today, my mom and dad have left town, the state, and the country itself. Relax, they've left on a well needed vacation. They're going to Israel, Jerusalem, Spain and a bunch of places around there. I'm so happy for them, but so sad. I'm going to really miss them. They'll be gone for two whole weeks. (Party at my place), No not really.

My Vista theme

2008-05-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

So every one that sees my desktop asks if I'm running Vista (I'm a PC user, but have been craving a Mac), and I gladly say "nope". So since I'm in a sharing mood, I'll reveal my sources, LOL. I love Crystalxp.net, this is where I get most of my customizing stuff from. They have the best stuff out there. Honestly I've searched..... well I think I have, a lot. They have these things called Bricopacks (themes). And one of them, my favorite one, the only one I've used, is called "Vista Inpirat 2". It looks a lot like Vista. But the coolest thing is the mac dock that it brings. This is a small application called RocketDock made my PunkSoftware. Its runs great, fast and smooth. And a lot of customization.
So there it is. Hope you enjoy, and tell me if you need any help.

Blue like Jazz

2008-05-22T19:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight I finished Blue Like Jazz. To me this isn't just the end of a great book. You see I have always been lazy when it comes to reading. Unless I really wanted to read something. I would try but just not finish. But something had been turning in me. From the day I decided to get the book I knew something was different, this time. I really do believe its all because of the values that I am adapting and making my own at FRC. From the first day, I knew this was where I needed to be. My desire has always been to work for a church, to see lives moved and changed by the gifts that God has given me. And I cant believe that God would give me this opportunity. After all my slips and falls He still doesn't give up, still reaches out His hand and helps me back up.
The last chapter of Blue Like Jazz is beautiful, title "Jesus". Don writes about loving Jesus, truly loving Him as a person, not just knowing what the bible says but believing it with your heart. Its the turning point, the point where you realize that Hes not just a character in this book but an actual person. The point where all the pain, whips, punches, kicks, mocking, and nails, that He went through become real to you.
So thats that. Just wanted to share something with you. Aside from the weekly over views, the red chucks, the concert, and the sleeping worship pastors. Hope you enjoyed the different view. And if you haven't read Blue Like Jazz, don't worry i didn't spoil it, there's a lot more.

so yummy, and ugly muffins

2008-05-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

Check it out guys! its yo gabba gabba, meets muffins that are just ugly cupcakes, meets nemo (if you can find nemo).

Red shoes (the return)

2008-05-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

So the Spanish worship pastor, Christian G, had some red shoes this weekend. Now they weren't Chucks but were still RED.
Warning, this might lead to a revolution, in the case that it does, I am not responsible. LOL. I just wanted some red Chucks.

Weekend wrap up

2008-05-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

Hmm... I'm trying to find a way to start this one, but just cant find the right words. I guess I'll just tell you about it:
-Saturdays 6:30 service was the most craziest, chaotic, and the most last minuet changes, service I've had at FRC. But we really did it. A big shout out to the tech team for keeping cool and going with the flow, you guys really represented.
-Video teaching services can be easy, but you cant let your guard down.
-Very impressed with the Haze Base demo hazer we are trying out.
-I got an Until There's a Cure bracelet.
-Flowers can put a smile on that special someone :D
-And here's a little preview of our worship:

To Write Love On Her Arms

2008-05-11T20:24:00.001-07:00

Please watch first!

This has been on my heart for some time. It came to my attention after getting my first "To Write Love On Her Arms" t-shirt, that a lot of people still don't know what this is all about. To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA) is a non profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.
This is something that has become very close and near to my hear. I've never dealt with any of these issues, but just the fact that there are people, kids, teens, out there struggling, hurting, and searching for real love, tears me apart inside. Check it out, get involved, love on those around you who are hurting. " learn what it means to live an honest life and to walk with people who are hurting." (twloha.com)

Chuck gone red

2008-05-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

I got a pair of red converse some time back. I have to say that I have always wanted a pair of red converse. But I did not buy any because I had other perfectly good shoes. So when the time for my old black and white converse came to retire. I decided that it was time. I totally love them now.

Weekend wrap up

2008-05-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

This was a beautiful weekend. Just when I thought the weekend couldn't get better...... God smiles and gives you one more surprise. All the services (tech wise) were over all good. Some small issues with video footage, but we pushed on. I was finally able to take a break form lighting operator duties, BIG thanks to our volunteers, you guys rock. I was able to walk around the first floor during the auditorium. I had NEVER done this before...... It was amazing. For one, I was able to actually see the lights from the same angle that most people see it every weekend. Second, being in the crowd felt like I was actually part of the people, not just a tech. The energy was amazing, although I was trying to get pics, I could still feel and see the people, clapping, worshiping, and going up for prayer, Amen.
Also, on Friday there was a special dinner witch we did a really cool production for. It was done in the main auditorium, with all the tables on the stage. We hang a rear projection screen in the middle of the auditorium, for easier viewing of video and IMAG. We also had this part where there were people out in the auditorium seats, and they told the stories of there lives and how they came to FRC, and have been impacted by what the church is doing. I picked them up with moving lights, one arc lamp with cto color correction for the front, and an incandescent for back lighting. We would switch off from solo song on keyboard to story, to keys, and so on. Check out the web album.

Switchfoot concert

2008-04-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

So Friday I was able to go see Switchfoot in concert. It was my first concert after a year or so of no concerts. It was a great show and most of all a great message. You can see the pics here . I apologies for some of the pics being blurry, not a great camera.

Napy time for the worship leaders

2008-04-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

This Sunday I walk in to the green room around 4pm, to get ready for our 5pm service. And I find Ricky, Vaughn and, Alex hard at work...... sleeping. Here are some pics.

The pain in my eye

2008-04-17T14:58:00.000-07:00

What a terrible day. This morning as I got ready to go to work something got in my eye. I thought it was an eye lash just because that often happens to me for having long eyelashes. Well I preceded to try to flush it out with water, but no luck. It bothered me through the day. I came home and rested in the hope that it would get better, but still nothing. So my dad took a look at it. He garbed a cue tip and passed it under my top eye lid, and OMGosh my pain was gone. I WAS FREE, LOL. On the cue tip were two small dots. Yesterday I was installing a kitchen faucet at home and got some stuff in my eye. I didn't think much about it because it didn't bother me after that. It must of been in a comfortable spot. It finally moved to its painful position under my top eye lid this morning when all along I thought it was an eye lash.
I tried to take a pic of the cue tip but the camera couldn't get a clean enough shot, but here's the cue tip either way:

Weekend over view

2008-04-13T04:30:00.001-07:00

So heres the good, the bad, and the scary. Great teaching by pastor Troy. I love it, he has no shame in saying things, and knows just how to say it. No sugar coating. Here are some good lessons that I got from the weekend, both tech and teaching:
- Haze machines are very unreliable, even if you have back ups.
- There will always be last minuet changes. Deal with it, BE PATIENT, work through it.
- What the skin wants, the skin will get, IF you let it. You have to stay strong and healthy.
- No mater what happens you have to stay calm, especially if your working in a team, NO MATER WHAT HAPPENS. Its no help to any one if your freaking out and loosing control. Take a deep breath, view the situation and think through what your about to do.

The weekend started off great, with a flawless first service. Half way through the teaching of the second service enters trouble. One of the computers in the video room crashes, crippling us from providing teaching notes on screen. Its was rebooted and back in working order before the end of service. Now comes Sunday morning. Good over all. Compared to the night before, it was flawless. Enter the last service on Sunday. Once again everything was running perfect and smooth. But just when all is calm trouble appears. In the form of a power failure. I believe there were two quick dips. First one, I was in the video room, everything continued running ok after the first. I run out to the auditorium to make sure lighting was till good, everything good. Then the second one, this one really did it. Video was completely crippled, audio was also completely lost, returning with the most loudest and scariest distorting noise I have ever heard come out of an audio system. Props to our sound man, he quickly regained control. Lighting had a weird and scary, but quick, blackout and then back to normal. But four of the moving lights running on 120V turned off.
After rebooting everything in the video room (a good five to seven minuets, that seemed like for ever), we had video back on the screens again.
I believe that we only lost half of the power to the campus. Some parts of the campus never lost power. It could of been the power lines that were being worked on a little further down on Flamingo Road, but who knows.

So there you have it. The most scariest service so far for me. Over all the service was not stopped. The message was delivered. Lives were touched. We are still standing strong. The enemy really tried to stop us, but he keeps forgetting who hes messing with. Glory to God. And a big thank you to all the volunteers that helped get everything back and running.

Heres a little collage of the weekend:

Sad Day

2008-04-10T18:07:00.001-07:00

Sad day today. A group of great friends has left to the ATL for Passion, unfortunately I could not go with them. Two reasons this is, work, and financial resources. So this means I'll be all alone this weekend :(
But hey, there'll be a next time, and many more other road trips.

Weekend wrap up

2008-04-06T21:19:00.000-07:00

WOW, what a crazy weekend. We started our new series called "The Bed", and what a series it is. Very PG-13. But amongst that was the chaos and excitement of our easter recap celebration moment. Which was just an amazing moment, filled with praise, balloons falling from the roof, and streamers shooting out above the stage. My apologies for not having a pic, I wasn't able to snap one because I had to run the lighting console. I'll try to find something to post later on.
Aside from church, this past Sunday I was finally able to experience, for the first time, the joy and wonder of IKEA. I was very excited about finally being able to go to this place that everyone seems to be talking about. It was totally out of this world, I felt like I was in another country, and I totally loved it. A big thank you to Stacie and Stacy for that.

Link me Link you

2008-03-31T11:55:00.001-07:00

Hey guys,
The blog master (H) has shared his divine wisdom with me. I feel so honored. So heres the deal, I was just going to add everyone that I know to my blog roll, but it would be much more fun and interesting if you link me in your blog, leave a comment letting me know, and then I'll link you on my blog roll. Link Love yall !!.....

Morning

2008-03-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

This morning I was taking notice of the mystery and, beauty of morning itself. Morning is never late, never early and, never fails. We can change our clocks and have morning seem like its late or early, but its us who are behind or ahead. Morning is a beautiful thing.
Psalm 19:1
God's glory is on tour in the skies, God-craft on exhibit across the horizon. Madame Day holds classes every morning, Professor Night lectures each evening.
Its a simple thought that most of us pass by. What would happen if we suddenly woke up one morning and there was no light, morning was late, or it was already out. Or even worse, what if morning never came at all. It would be insane, madness would roam the streets. But our God is amazing.
Genesis g 1:3
God spoke: "Light!" And light appeared. God saw that light was good and separated light from dark. God named the light Day, he named the dark Night. It was evening, it was morning— Day One.
We can think of it this way. Morning and evening never fail and, will never be late or early. Its Gods way of telling us that He fill never fail you, He'll will never leave you alone in the dark. He'll never be late or too early. We might plan out when we want God to appear, but He'll always do His work at the right time.

First Blog

2008-03-29T00:46:00.000-07:00

WOW, how exciting. This is my first post on my own blog. I've blogged before on myspace, but now I've decided to take the leap in to Blogger space. A frontier only know to the brave, creative, and talkative. But then again, these days everyone and there moms blogs, and don't forget the family dog, lol. And I'm working on a header for the Blog itself.