G$ and Jewels

...Words Remain... Symphonically!

2011-01-06T00:17:00.000-08:00

Mason Jar Music Presents... Josh Garrels from Mason Jar Music on Vimeo.

The past two days a number of folks have posted this video. I chose to 'sit' in it. I was a giddy boy just 'drinking' it in... This is a song that I've journeyed with - off of Josh's Jacaranda Album - a beautiful song in that version, but this... this production, this sound, this collection of musicians... It is just spectacular!

The first thing that hit me was the visual 'story'. I was so drawn in that later, in the evening I had my wife, julz (aka jewels), sit down and we watched it together - she was taken by it! Kudos to the Mason video team - shot beautifully. Kudos to the musicians - vocalist to bells to strings - who ventured to work on this thru the night! There is a lot going on this video - as mentioned by other note takers, but I recognized something deeper... I knew I wanted to really 'hear' it, as the Mason Collective suggests, "Listen with Head phones", so I took the past 24 hours to do this... 5 x to be exact. When I put on the headphones,

I closed my eyes.

The music followed a center - a beautiful line - the tiny guitar - and the miraculous voice. This version begins to hop, skip and jump along this line - similar to the 'climber' culture of 'slack lining' - the music follows its line, but it begins to skip and turn along in some spectacular ways! The creativity of all involved stays incredibly cohesive... and takes this song to a spectacular place. By the second line, when Josh sings, "it was pro-phesied long ago...", the strings and flutes and the bells all start to find there place. It's a beautiful line, and the orchestra makes it hop along!

The message and the voice are the real gift in this song, thank you, Josh, for writing and risking. A small group of 'faith-walkers' met tonight near USC, in a victorian house-turned-apartment. They talked about the 'Word' and its affect in their lives. This same Word hops, skips, and follows the 'center line' in their lives, as similar as this song comes alive in this video.

Planting, Growing...

2010-06-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

We're getting ready for Costa Rica! Yes... Julz and I have prayed and talked about doing this since we first got married (five years in August!). This will be an immersion/Mission project. We leave this coming thursday - 6am. We're very stoked. We have about half of the money raised, and are trusting the rest to come in. I hope to be posting from there, as we'll have internet.

Spring has Sprung - and Life is moving along... This is more of an update than usual... in the sense that we've been bizzy-bees... Love this photo above, at our community garden we have been harvesting our first crops, and this seems appropriate - as we are in the midst of Church planting in South Los Angeles... we have seen some first fruits... And it feels like we're always on Adventure...
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This past week I spent a day and a half hiking "the last damned river" in southern Cali - with two incredible guys; Ben and Jeff. Jeff just graduated from USC and will be taking a job in San Diego. He has been a 'groundbreaking' disciple - always serving, hosting, practicing hospitality to our incredibly diverse neighborhood - His BBQs would be a third Indian and Chinese, respectively, and the third third, a mix of anglo, latino and other minorities. He will be greatly missed. This trip was a great time to connect and was a great challenge.
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The new "Art of Living" organization moved into the neighborhood last month. Its something to note, as USC has the largest per capita population of Indians on an American campus. This building is quite historic, as well. For a number of decades it was the largest dome west of the missippi. In the neighborhood, we also have a significant Mosque in LA county, two Mormon wards, three large Catholic churches... This diversity is very rare. The place where I see the most migling? On the soccer field. It is World Cup time, and this doesn't surprise me. This is a reason for prayer and engagement on multiple levels.

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I'll leave you with PROM! Yes, Julie finished her 7th year of teaching - and we chaperoned Prom... whew... from high up in a downtown building... you can see above with some reflection of the dancers in the window. Julie loves to see the impact on her students, and she works so hard. Here I'm with Daniel, a senior. He has been a part of our mentoring program - and has really taken steps forward in leadership this past year. One being, he started volunteering with our Bread outreach to the neighborhood. He is helping bake, and is really learning a lot about what it means to engage your neighbors and share the Love of Christ!

Grandma McCarthy, in Memory

2010-04-18T08:03:00.000-07:00

Julie got news late friday night that her Grandma McCarthy passed on. She was a dear soul. And when I say "dear", I don't mean fluffy or the like. This isn't to mean she wasn't nice - quite the contrary. What I mean by 'dear' - is that she was endearing! In the years that I knew her, she had a common reply to most requests. Grandma could you get... Would you check...? And she'd reply, slyly, "I'm retired." Everyone would laugh, as she'd have a big smile on her face.
I didn't know the Grandma McCarthy when she wasn't in a wheel chair, but Julie shared some 'endearing' stories of her working in her garden, 'out-doing' Grandpa, and always mentioning how 'the floors need to be cleaned.' As Julie shared these memories, I stopped in my tracks in amazement at how Julie takes after her! It was as though I was hearing her grandmothers voice as Julie shared. Just yesterday, I came in the kitchen to see Julie looking curious at the floors, she stated, "I gotta get down there and clean this, they need to be cleaned."
The picture above was taken at Christmas this past year. Grandma was 94 years old. She was surrounded by her family. We are flying out today, Sunday, to go visit. I was reminded of these verses in 1 Corinthians 15 by my dad yesterday... They hold so much promise and hope... and encouragement.

"For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“O death, where is your victory?
"O death, where is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

My City... micro-time-lapsed wonder

2010-04-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

This past week we've had some wonderful weather - it is changing to cool and rainy - but this time-lapse video made me think of all that is LA. Julie and I are off today to explore and find adventure with in!

The East Side of Los Angeles on a Sunny Day from clark vogeler on Vimeo.

Easter Meditation

2010-04-03T11:54:00.001-07:00

This easter I'm really excited! It's amazing what can happen in one year! Last Easter we prayed and formed a team for the South LA church plant. Being Launched, and Planted, now we're having our first easter service - in the park, with a BBQ, and hand-made easter bags that will be given to anyone who wants one.

(Before this - tonight, Julz and I are going to Prom! Yeah - we're going back. I think we're going to dress '80s style. Should be fun.)

Between Good (actually GREAT for us) Friday and Easter Sunday, I take time to reflect on this ultimate act of selflessness and redemptive act by Jesus. Two songs that speak deep to my soul are by my friend, Josh. I've printed the lyrics/poems below. May they refresh your soul with the grace of God.

Good Friday By Josh Garrels

Broken wing, forgotten dream, shattered thing
That a mans hands can’t ever truly mend
Shadow land, desert sand, a man searches
For a love that’ll never die
Truth be known, you’re not alone
Your aching bones will find a home
In place where God he sets us free
Wake me up before you go
I will listen for the sound of your voice
Hear the wind in the trees
It goes where it please
Like the breath in me
And all who have breath can sing

When we layed your body down
In earth and in the ground
Oh child, rest your soul.
Will a hope be made good
When a word is understood
In the day, will we see you again?

Gather round, hear the sound
Of a story that’s so old that it’s been told
Before time
He was born in the flesh and the blood
In a world that was dark as hell, and dead in sin
Born of the spirit, and the virgin child
He’s the son of God, son of man
I didn’t recognize that look in his eyes
When they cried
With a sorrow that no man has ever known
Hang him high, watch him die, hear the cry
Crucified up on that God forsaken tree
And all who have breath can sing

When we layed your body down
In the earth and in the ground
Oh Lord, rest your bones
Will a hope be made good
If your words are understood
In the day, will we see you again

Oh Eloi, Eloi, lama sabacthani?
Oh my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Oh Eloi, Eloi, lama sabacthani?
Oh my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

YHWH by Josh Garrels

Holy, holy, holy is the lamb
Almighty, almighty, almighty is the Lord

It’s unlocked in his left are the keys to death and hell
And in his other palm are seven stars
Silently circling like seven seals and sounds and seven cycles
Seventy sets of seven are prophesied
Before the king comes from heaven
The earth will quake and men’s hearts will shake
When they hear the war drum
And I’m talking about creator of the mountains
I’m talking about the one who gave up his son
I’m singing about the one who died for everyone
And in his blood he’s giving us real freedom
Brought by one, bought by one son
Someone from the kingdom come
He was, and is, and is to come
Healing the deaf and dumb
His words cut the dark like a sharp weapon light
Wrong or right?
All mankind was blind and he came to give us sight
Wrong or right?
Tell me, what is it about the name of Jesus Christ
It makes men fight within
Against the sin, against the night, dark or light
Day and night
Polarized
This is not a grey matter choice
And don’t blame it on another mans voice
Because time keeps on slipping, into the future
I don’t lose you
You must make a decision soon
Be it life, or death

Holy, holy, holy, is the Lamb
That was slain, that was slain
Worthy is his name, worthy is his name

YHWH

He was, and is, and is to come
He was, and is, and is to come

First fruits...

2010-04-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

This turnip is very curious. Other than being enormous! See the 3- seperated stalks on the top? The only thing we could conclude is this is the evidence of 3 seperete seeds that grew into one!

There are many things that this brings to mind: The flexibility of bio-mechanics... Given the SoCal sunshine, our watering and rich soil care, these 3 seedlings found a way to grow... I'm thinking of the verse in Ecclesiastes - A chord of Three Strands is not easily broken. There is probably a case for 3-in-1 here, too. I'm just in awe of how the first fruits from our garden are blossoming!

K-Town!

2010-04-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

This is my friend, Dennis. He graduated two years ago from Foshay. He did the marathon 3 times in High School - and since then has gone on to be a running mentor and done two more marathons! It's great to continue this relationship, and we had a rich conversation about relationships, and the ultimate relationship - especially leading up to Easter - had greater significance. I took him to my favorite Sushi place in Koreatown - Fat Fish. Here he is with the "Burrito Roll"! He love it! (and named it:)

Fat Fish is the only 'rotating sushi bar' in K-town. Its great fun and they make incredible creations.

I asked Dennis if he'd every been to Pebble Beach - or Monterey Bay. He said he hadn't to either - So I took him to Pebble Beach... On 6th street in LA! :)

Yes, the Virtual Famous California Coastline! This place is always busy, too. Get your tee-times early.

Saturday Events update

2010-03-27T17:10:00.001-07:00

This morning had a great 2nd mini-retreat with the Bicycle Bread Co! This group is a faith-filled bunch, who put in some serious work for their project to deliver the healthiest bread with a life changing message in the neighborhood! Next Thursday we're having a celebration dinner at Paladar - should be a great time!
... btw, Go Butler! Glad to see a 'hoosier' team in the final four!...

Tonight is the Marathon Runners Banquet! This is always a blast. The mentors do a great job of putting together a great event, the seniors have fun stories, and the toasts and stories just cap off the night. Pictures to come.

I'm struggling with my (another, my 3rd of the year) nose infection. My allergies don't like the wet rainy year... I'm hanging in their... Gotta run, to meet up with the runners!

Post Marathon update

2010-03-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

A brief update:
Our runner, Gerardo, was released from the Hospital on Tuesday. Come to find out he had a history with stomach virus' and bleeding, but he is doing ok. Please keep him in your prayers. He has been humbled and is really open.
Tomorrow, this Saturday will be out Banquet. This is will be a great celebration. I'm very proud of all the runners, what they've accomplished - and like one of the parents, Jorge Orellana, said best, "This relates to all of life! Now we need to help the students set goals for the marathon of life - and they can do, because they did this!"

This is ruben, whose father passed away earlier this year. He did great. This is him at mile 18. He has been a warrior. It was a very meaningful time seeing his peers support and surround him.

This is Julio - one of our Most Improved! He used to sprint and fade-out - here he is on his last Half mile, and he finished in under 4 hrs - a great accomplishment and his first marathon!

Matt, one of our mentors, at mile 18. He made a huge contribution - as an accomplished runner, who ran this marathon in 3hr. 12min - that is smoking! But he also shared his faith in a meaningful way, especially with Gerardo and gave him a huge boost through all of his difficulties.

The marathon 2010...

2010-03-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was truly amazing! It was a really long day! But fun, emotional, tiring, jubilant - With the new course came knew challenges. Dodgers stadium was a zoo. Traffic was terrible - they started the race 30 minutes later. The course was fun and vibrant - very hilly.

All of our runners and mentors finished strong... most 'hit the wall' (as to be expected), but all kept persevering and met or surpassed their goals! One of our gals, Ana, who had knee issues, did great! Our guy, Gerardo, who had knees issues, finished strong, but not without complications. I didn't leave Santa Monica until after 5pm because I spent a few hours with him and nurses - we eventually got him to a hospital - and today I found out he is having stomach bleeding. This guy made some huge steps forward last week spiritually and in his character. All the mentors and I were commenting on Saturday how much we've seen him grow. Please keep him in your prayers. I hope to hear more from him tonight.

This is a big transition week for our runners and their goals. We have them set post-marathon goals. Please keep them in your prayers. A number of them have a godly hunger! I look forward to seeing what is next for them. This Saturday is our annual banquet. It is always a touching time.

New Growth in the marathon of Life...

2010-03-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Marathon - Is this Sunday! Yikes, it's amazing how this past season has come and went. We've had so many wonderful stories; after the loss of Rubens dad being able to minister to him - and how his testimony of God's love has affect others!, Daniel - a senior - leading by example and actively sharing his faith, and most recently, Ana, who has made a 180 degree turn from hard shell to being open and caring, in spite of an injury, which she has been diligent to take care of and will be taking on the Marathon. Above is a picture from our 18miler event. A cool, cloudy, high of 60 degree day - This sunday is supposed to be clear, sunny, high of 77 degree day. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers. For more; Below is a map - yeah!
Our Garden continues to impress us! We've planted butter lettuce, spinach, parsnips, beets, collards... and something else that I'm forgetting (probably because I don't like to eat it ;) We've had some wonderful harvesting - we've had greens coming out our ears! We've shared with friends and neighbors, which is really nice and a great way to bless others. I'm continually amazed at how much weeding goes on! It's a constant affair. There is a good metaphor for my personal life and growth there. Below, our turtle protector and butter lettuce.
-- Julie doing some weeding. --
Ah, yes, Julz just can't stop! She won't Stop! Oh no! Plus she's amazing and amazes me, continually. So, she's now the head swim coach for Foshay. Yesterday was her first day. Here she is with some of her gals. Giving meaningful insights for sure. This more "Swim Club" than swim team, as her gals are swimming for the first time, and have a lot to learn. Plus, the pool where she swims - albiet a grand history hosting 2 Olympics - is home for 6 schools, simultaneously. This is very different than those schools who have their own pool, funding, athletics... things that middle class would expect. Notice the grand USC Colliseum in the background. I'm really happy for Julz - she's getting in the pool today with swimmers to make sure some hands on instruction happens!

Peace on... Missouri

2009-12-23T08:36:00.001-08:00

We arrived in the land of wet and cold... Missouri! Joe put Julie and I straight to work - here we're putting lights on the deck... Julie is rocking Katies jacket and hat from middle school... the gloves are work gloves that Joe gave us... Good thing, since we were hard at work with the staple gun!

We visited Julie's grandpa and grandma McCarthy (both in their '90s) - here is Grandpa trying julie's decadant Truffles - yeah, he was a happy camper after that. Grandma said she didn't like carmels... but you couldn't tell the way she scarfed it down! It was a meaningful time to be with them and listen to stories. Each time we get to visit the McCarthy's we get to see more of the family tree and stories that have shaped part of who Julie is.

Back at Joe's place, G$, Julz, Katie, and Joe... watching one of Julie's favorites, Julie & Julia - Joe is quite the cook; apple smoked chicken, white-bean chili, 8hr Spagetti sauce (with every spice, including the 'kitchen sink') in a 15lb cast-iron pot... thanks to Patti for taking the photo!

We went to Tillis Park to see the Christmas lights... a good reminder of the reason for the season... all praise and glory to the babe of Bethleham... the King of Kings...

In Honor... Senor Torres

2009-12-18T10:14:00.000-08:00

Last night, we remembered Senor Torres. A father, a friend, a neighborhood mentor, a skilled worker... a man of great faith. Pictured here with his eldest son, Ruben, wife, and ruben's friend Bryan. This is taken from the LA Marathon 2008. He passed of Cancer in the lungs. He has two son's, Ruben (Pictured) and Joel. Although, he was a father to many neighborhood kids. He invited the rough and tumble into his house... into his Church community... into a new life. The memorial service was very sad... yet so filled with Esperanza and Corazon (hope and heart). I say it this way, because the whole service (3 hours) was in Spanish. The whole group of High School mentorees were at the service, also. This meant a lot to Ruben and his mom. His mom couldn't stop mentioning what this program (that Julie and I provide) means to her, and meant to her husband - that we were 'special' in Rubens life and faith development. I was reminded of the practice of "presence" - that showing up is atleast half of what life is about. Also, the self-less acts that Senor Torress practiced are an inspiration and a reminder of how the redeeming work of Jesus translates into life change. All who were present were touched by the stories of a life well-lived and of a trust-worthy Hope found in God. We will greatly miss Senor Torres, and count it a blessing to part of this community.

Truffle-a-thon and Advent

2009-12-14T09:01:00.000-08:00

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Our weekend, rather 'cooking weekend', started off with finding a creative way to use the carmel that didn't quite come our 'right'. Julie made a couple of batches that didn't sit-up right for making carmels... BUT it did make for some GREAT caramel SAUCE! She is so creative - she made a Caramel-Apple Layer Cake with Caramel Icing! Hmmm, yumm-o!
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We finished our Candy production, and the Truffle-a-thon has officially ended!!

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Here Julie is sorting and boxing... on the right, julie put together a platter for a baby shower, for our good friend Lauren... The platter looked like a blue-hannakah candy, regardless of what I saw, It was again a very cool expression of Julies creativity!
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Here are the Truffles in Completion... We went for a theme... The Caramels got City names... and the rest... based on our love for travel, and europe... gave them country themes... The are in the long line of Sandy Christman's Candy recipes... I say long line because some of the recipes go back 4 generations.

.... Venice (Cali): Decadent Caramel (sea-salt top)

.... St.Louis: Chocolate Covered Caramel

... Italian: Bicerin Nut Truffle

... Netherlands: Oranje Truffle

...Belgium: Almon- Amaretto Truffle

... France: Raspberry Beret Truffle

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Yesterday in our Sunday Service, we paused to recognize Advent, and per Shalom's request we had the youngest light the candles; Green for Growth, Red for the Blood of our Savior, and Gold for our King...

... Here is Zion doing the duty

... and Liam very focused...

Raining in LA

2009-12-14T08:40:00.001-08:00

We just came through a big rain, despite old '90's tunes that sang the opposite... for LA this is normal in December/January... Ironically, in my recent memory it usually happens during Christmas week. I liken it to the snow/'white' christmas of the midwest. I remember, fondly, the snow moving people indoors and socializing in a deeper way with some tea or coffee. When it rains here, it seems like it has a similar effect... but with some disonance, as the culture here is consummed with Sun.

I found this music from our good friends Josh and Elle, about 'raindrops' is it were, fitting on such a rainy day... A song is below; Morning Coffee; by an artist in Japan... Julie is a big morning coffee person, I'm not so much, but this music was a delight during the cloudy days... which have turned for 'the better' today... (the better because I've become a part of the cultural norm-although, I'm more easy to resist it when the rains come by enjoying it. One way that I did this was had our runners out in the rain last friday... at first they complained, "we don't even go out in the rain!" - this is why the rain here is likened to 'snow days' back east. To my, and their surprise, at the end of the run, drenched and soaking wet, they all love it! One or two of them shifted their cultural out look of rain... or so I hope;)

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://lullatone.bandcamp.com/track/morning-coffee"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Morning Coffee by Lullatone&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

12 days of Christmas

2009-12-10T20:18:00.000-08:00

Oh, yeah... This is it... the Christman Truffle-a-thon! This is the Bicerin Nut Truffle... hmmm, yeah, so good! Bicerin makes for a nice Coffee Drink and is strickly a Torino staple. It also makes for a ultra creamy, yummy, truffle.

Julie is becoming quite the Chocolatier - but all the work makes her go alittle crazy! ;) These are Julie's, Oranje' Truffles. Made with a 40 proof orange liquer, and sprinkled with orange zest. We're naming these Oranje Truffles because our friend, Eva, is in the Netherlands and their Football (think soccer) team is the Oranje. It may not make sense. Thats ok. They taste delicious!

This is her Carmel batch - she's made four batches... 2 will see the inside of our mouths... In the background is Julie's favorite little Christmas decoration... It's a ridiculous Raindeer that 'houses' jellybelly's...

And when you push down on it, it 'poo's out the beans ;) I know... it something else, and she loves it. I hope you're having an enjoyable Season, and remembering the reason for the season. If you're lucky, Hopefully we can get you a taste of our treats... ;)

Thanks Gardening-Hiking-Sailing

2009-12-10T20:03:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving - we celebrated rightly... I mean this... that is we started a garden - with the help of the Locals ;) It is in a neighborhood garden and we have a little plot. We planted Parsnips, Beets, Mustard, Collards, Spinach... and we've yet to see anything come up - but it was a great way to start Thanksgiving Day!

I wish I could say this was the Fruit of our labor - but it was even better - it was the fruit of everyones labor! We had 30+ people together in the back of Shalom and Steph's place - two turkeys - and a wonderful time! It was a really good time and we had two Int'l students who got to have 'thanksgiving' for the first time!

This is Chris Miller, Cap'n' Ray, Katie and Stephanie Miller on our Post-Thanksgiving Hike! What a great way to enjoy the day-after ;)

Later that same day, Ray invited us out on his boat! We had a very relaxing time - but we had to make sure Katie didn't put the rails too far into the water! (This was her first time Steering a vessal - and she did great!)

Cirquing

2009-12-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

Our friend, Stephanie, got us tickets to the latest Cirgue du Soliel Show - Kooza - and It is Koo-Koo-Krazy Good! ;) We had a great time - Julie liked the "salamander" girls... I was more into the Wheels of Death - crazy acrobatics! This was our crew, Vanessa, Shalom, Steph, Ben (of the Jamin' Bread Co.) The masks were for sale, and we had fun trying them on!

Julz Wine Country Birthday Vacation

2009-12-10T11:53:00.000-08:00

Ah, Yes, This past November, once julie finished her semester, I planned a trip to California Wine Country. She had wanted to visit since forever! And it didn't dissapoint. This is in Sonoma Valley. We started in Napa, then Sonoma, and then to her favorite (and mine to) Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys.

We were there during that last days of the picking season. These grapes, at Benzingers, we tried and were super sweet.

We had a great time driving between wineries, relaxing, and playing Bocci! Julie Won!

Running Mentoring - Wow!

2008-09-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

That's right, folks, we started our after school program, again... we have over 40 kids coming! Wow-wee - I'm looking forward to getting our mentors more involved this year, and can't wait to hear how God will be touching these kids lives!

These guys make me smile ;)

Wall Street Crisis a crisis of the heart

2008-09-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Julie came home yeasterday and today, and as typical - she shared with me all the drama of working in a low-performing Public High School... This time, there was a story of a teacher and students talking about the Wall Street Crash, housing industry... all very worry-some and negative.

I found this all interesting - Last night, I caught Charlie Rose's interview... with some real sharp cats talking about the state of American fiscal markets. Working and living in LA, none of this really surprises me too much, (recently, LA was called the 'capital of the poor'). Sadly, I watch high schoolers and college students live like there are no consequences to over-spending. Also, I live in a neighborhood where housing prices are ridiculous - and I'm continually amazed by the number of people buying without any real income or bad credit with enormous mortgages.

All this to say, the main thing I took from Charlie's interview was this: American markets haven't needed to be honest. So business has reported from a place of 'falsehood'. One interviewee likened it to Business reports/earnings have been Opaque vs. Transparent. Click here if you want to see the interview -

Opaque Versus Transparant; isn't that interesting, as a follower of Christ, I believe it is Jesus, his work and his Spirit, that lead me to be Authentic; That is to be Transparent versus Opague. Something to think about when I consider business, markets... and discipleship; am I modeling opaque or transparent behaviors?

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If you find markets and world economy interesting, you might look at this link. A friend of mine in Amsterdam, a Christ-follower, emailed this blog - which gives an interesting description of future world market issues.

Josh Garrels

2008-09-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that my good friend, Josh Garrels, played in Julie and mine's wedding.

He just came out with a new album!

and if you don't know his music, you can find it online at www.joshgarrels.com

OR, if you live in the midwest, you can check him out LIVE!

Also, if you follow Paste Magazine, you might know this writer, who gave Josh a real nice review - click to check it out...

I've had the pleasure of watching Josh mature in life, Christ, and in music. I'm real proud of his new stuff, and it gets heavy rotation in our household. ( I know, iPod's don't rotate... but you know what I mean ;) (maybe, I should do an album review? ;)

"Josh Garrels....New CD Release show " on Saturday, September 27 at 8:00pm.

Event: Josh Garrels....New CD B-lated Release show
What: Concert
Host: Muncie Alliance Church...aka...Mac
Start Time: Saturday, September 27 at 8:00pm
End Time: Saturday, September 27 at 11:00pm
Where: Muncie Alliance Church...Mac

Truth and Justice

2008-07-15T23:19:00.000-07:00

My interest in Architecture... is a daily fixation. Not something you probably expect. I'll explore more later... but first, Today, I had the opportunity to meet the new Dean of Religious Life at USC. We're working on a conference at USC through the Marshal School of Business. Our part will focus on Theology and Sustainability. I had the thought going into the meeting - This is like the days of old - How could my 'lowly' position of a Religious Director, a volunteer, be used to influence and befriend an institutional decision maker?
We had a good connection. We both use the word, "Dude", and for all his accolades, he's incredibly down to earth - and he was really impressed by many of the things we're doing in the neighborhood - and even encouraged questionable behavior, (I shared about Stephen and Chris sneaking up on the roofs of USC, in order to make a point.)

I had a unique opportunity to share with him about my love for Architecture. For me, architecture is about anthropology and social sciences. Helping and Serving. It designs space - which influences relationships. I've been thinking about created space a lot, lately, especially concerning - issues of Justice. How space and design functions can, ultimately, be matters of justice.
Cameron Sinclair, of Architecture for Humanity, speaks to this issue.
This sort of approach really does inform my faith - as I think about Leadership, Discipleship and multiplication - how does what I do create space for Truth and Justice in the lives of others?
Architecture for Humanity has certain values, do's and don'ts, in order to help them achieve their goals - some of which are really practical, and inspiring.

Continuing on my Architecture rant... I stumbled across these Wineries with massive pieces - The Herzog is quite famous here in California, but I've never been. Julie would love to tour Napa!

Last, but not least, in my younger days, I experimented with Graffiti. Thinking back to my talk with Varun, I couldn't help but think - I can't encourage this - but it is darn creative... and seems to inspire others to truth and justice....

Experiments, Crazy Iron Chef

2008-07-15T22:39:00.000-07:00

Some one asked if I put pictures of me and a 'stach on here to get more comments... Regardless, here I am deep in decision making with a goatee, one Brian Powers. My little 'stach experiment was fun...

Speaking of Experiments. Have you every tried this? Julie was swimming three days a week during her off time, and she started having hearing problems. The docter said it was ear wax. She tried this candle thingy with a towel on her shoulder. She said it had a minimal effect. The ear drops the doctor gave her, she said did work, but was... crazy feelin'!

Speaking of Crazy. Julie was a Mad Iron Chef! Here is Amy and Dave - with napkins tucked in ;)

Genisis sporting the napkin proper.

So, "Julie, an iron chef?," you ask. Judge for yourself

Judge for yourself: Ingredient - Mango

appertif: Mango, Buffalo mozzerella, basil - capresse salad

Main Dish: Mango Chutney Turkey Burger (After Julie conconted this one based on a similar Apple Turkey Burger, she had me make the patty's - this got a little slimmy - and we had 12 patties left over - that a large recipe!)

Dessert: ...?.... think you can guess?.... Mango Cheesecake with a lemon-lime-basil syrup drissle!

Elevator Heart

2008-07-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Elevator Heart: by Gman

Elevator Heart
Always kept low, held down
Free me from heavy fearful sounds
Heart over flow the lips for a new start
Rise Elevator Heart

Gravity, Always brings me down
The quips and snips - like personalized Blips and Beats
Gravity, Always brings me down
Dragged down by the voice of others

Defy Gravity!
Recognize the tension in my body, relax
Defy Gravity!
Your Work Free's my Heart
Defy Gravity!
Your Spirit, my guide as I step out

Defy Gravity,
Elevator Heart
Soar in His Sacred Freedom

----------------------------------------------
I like writing speed poetry. At USC, we would have a speed poetry night, where someone would throw out an idea, and everyone would get 10 minutes or so, and then share. It's a great way to get into the discipline of writing, and getting immediate feedback.

JR, on sunday, asked everyone to write a poem at Kairos in a similar way. He was speaking on the Psalms - and ask everyone to write their own Psalm. This is what I wrote.
This past week, I'd been thinking about about how easy it is to push down my heart. Difficult situations would happen and I recognized something. As I allowed my Heart to come up, sharing candidly, then the Spirit really seemed to move!
(In another way to think about it, this notion relates to Emotional Intelligence.) There is an obvious reference to the popular song, Defy Gravity, from the play Wicked. This idea of "Defying" gravity and faith just seem to go together like hand-and-glove. - don't you feel like you're floating when faith takes over, or when negativity just rolls off your back? (For the music heads out there, not as obvious, but if you know the group UNKLE, there is a line in the poem that I use that's from them. I have to give credit where its due.)

Olympic Fever!

2008-06-29T21:49:00.001-07:00

We have a friend -

Peter Marshall

- Hopefully You'll be hearing a lot about him -
Because He'll be swimming in the Olympic Trials in the next two Days -

This brings to attention - Julz and I have Olympic Fever!

This may explain the skin outbreak we're having.... well, actually, that is from mosquito bites (straight craziness, as we've never - yes, never - had mosquito in LA) - We had a really wet rainy season this year - and it's been crazy hot and humid... atypical...

Back to our Fever!

If you have USA Network, he swims the backstroke.

Monday and Tuesday Evenings

Last but not least, Julie has been working on a number of projects during her off time.

She is really proud of our "cork wall" that is going in our kitchen. She has been saving Wine and Beer (when possible, i.e. Chimay) Corks for the past 3 years. Pictures will follow.

Another project is this little Cactus garden (did I say it was humid here?... a'typical, though)

So she loves this - below a prepotted picture - also, the table cloth comes from Kitsch Kitchen in Amsterdam - very mod and summer-y!

(It should be stated that a few folks shared with Julie that she is displaying "Nesting" behavior - not surprising since this has been her first real School Break in 3 years - it could be noted, for clarity, that we don't have any little chics for all this nesting... we'll let you know if and when :)

Exploring LA's Lourve

2008-06-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

Julie and I went to the new BCAM, at LACMA yesterday. Our friend Brian Powers worked on the project. It is a Renzo Piano. The Modern/Contemporay art was interesting - Koons especially. Although, the building, the excalator, the elevator - all over-sized and fun to explore - really stole the show for me.
After exploring BCAM, we went into the "Phantom Sightings" exhibition. This was a highlight for me, as it illuminated a lot of my own experiences and aethetics with Los Angeles. I appreciate how this show was very collaborative - all the artists worked together on it, created music playlists (something that I love!). There was everything from paintings on plywood, to oversized "quincejare and wedding buckets", to paintings done with glittery car paint - all overwhelmingly said LA to me.
Julie and I had never been there. LACMA is a huge complex. We really only had the energy for BCAM, the Phantom Sightings Show, and the Philip-Lorca photographs (also an LA artist - who captures people and place really well), but there is photography, classic paintings, and Japaness art that we hope to see in the future.
We did wonder around the grounds and see the Tar Pits - saw the whooly mammaths and sabor toothed tigers! Imagining a "wild" LA never seemed so real :)

2008-06-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

This week we're taking some time with our friends the Powers. They are just starting the support raising process - as new staff with Kairos - this is very exciting! They will be serving with us at USC.

Yesterday we spent the day at Huntington Gardens - which is a spectacular place. I was reminded how many truly interesting gems are in the LA area!

We are taking today to go to the beach together... and make a fire, and spent some time in prayer...Should be nice. Surfing is one of Brian and I's favorite things to do... I'm sure I'll have some pics... I"m really enjoying spending time with them - the whole family is a delight :)

huntington continued

2008-06-05T10:23:00.000-07:00

2008-06-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

We went to the Gardens with our friends, Brian and Sara Powers. None the least, Liam. Of whom Julie Loves Entertaining!

Here is the little man himself, Liam - Straight chillin.

Huntington Gardens and Library

2008-06-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

We went to Huntington Gardens and library yesterday.

They have some amazing books! From Medieval (First ed. Chaucer), to Romantic, to Early American (First Ed. Waldon, Congressional Notes, ...).

I was amazed by how ornate these early writtings are. It really seems like a lost art.

It was interesting to me to see this 1840's drawing of the US Army in Monterrey MX - as I was just there! A pastor and friend took me up on a hill were we looked down, and he explained how the American army passed right through - this is the picture!

There is a new area that opened this year in the Gardens. It is a Chinese Gardens which was all made in China! All the tile... architecture, sculpture... and this beautiful wood carving.

2008-06-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Julie and I went to See Wicked last night with our Friends brian and Sara!

I don't tend to be a "musicals" type of guy - but I am a "Live" performance type of guy - and I thought it was good show! It has some really great themes; looking beyond the outside, seeing life from a new perspective, not letting circumstance get you down... and it's quite funny!

We were given the tickets - and sat at 4th row - what a blessing!

Star-sighting/Fun Reality of Living in LA - At intermission, I stood up and turned, two rows back was Carri Ann with her man - I, ever so subtly, leaned into Julz and shared - and What does she do? She stares... wondering, perplexing, maybe even disbelieving, and then turns to me and goes - she's from Dancing with the Stars!?! (Yes, Julz has a hidden interest in Ball Room dancing - you should see her practice in the apartment! Maybe some pictures will be in order :) I did restrain myself from the ever so tempting "dance off" in the lobby, but Brian and I couldn't resist saying in a british accent, "Carri Ann Inaba".

Crazy Pedastals at the new Starck Restuarant. This is at the new hot corner at Vine and Hollywood.

We didn't eat - $100 p/p - but I wanted to go in because I've had an interest in the designer.

It had a classic hollywood posh... err... irony to it all.

The Deco ceiling at the Pantages...
Sandy would love these...

From Monterrey To LA

2008-05-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

I returned from my trip to Monterrey this week. It's been a whirlwind.

If you're interested in seeing pictures. You can click the below link.

http://picasaweb.google.com/gmaaan/KappaPrimeMonterreyMX

Gotta get back to my Thesis work - Hope to keep posting...

Labor Day Sailing

2008-05-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

Julz and I had a blessing of a Labor Day - We got to go Sailing with a classmate of mine - Ray - He lives in Marina Del Rey (notice the pun?) - We got to visit some of Julz favorite friends - Seas!

Ray sails - while relaxing!

Labor Day Sailing

2008-05-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

Julz loves the Seals!

We had a relaxing time on the boat with Ray!

Ar, Ar, Ar... Yeah, the seals are fun!

HOMEMADE

2008-01-14T23:17:00.000-08:00

It's been an incredible start to '08! I've started getting healthy - from my cold - finally!
One thing that Julie and I have been busy with is getting ready for the LA Marathon on March 2nd. We've been getting our runners out on the road 4 days a week with a hill work out on Wednesdays, and a Long Run on Saturday mornings.
Something we've learned over the past couple of years is that these kids don't eat healthy. A large part of our role is teach them about food, nutrients, healthy diets. A big part of this is diet for running is getting enough protein. My dad would be proud! (He is all about the protein as of late:)
And Protein can get expensive. All the protein bars and drinks start to drive me a little crazy, especially when buying for 20. So, I was really excited when I found a recipe to make Homemade Protein Bars!

Here are the more "granola-y" ones... I added Soy and Whey Protein. The kids like them best. They have a great honey taste. The key to these; after baking, press down firmly so once they cool, they keep their shape.

Here are the more "Cake-y" bars. I didn't have Apple Juice, but substituted with a Tangerine/Orange. The kids liked these as well. The peanut butter taste appealed to some, but they liked the crunch of the previous ones. I have to agree.

All at the percentage of the price of store bought protein bars, and they just taste so fresh... I really don't like the processed/chalky taste of store bought. I gotta give credit to Alton Brown. Love that guy. He is so "Bill Nye, the Science Guy", but with just enough of a great Cook in him. I'd like to try this homemade recipe next.

Posting Christmas...

2008-01-08T23:24:00.001-08:00

So, It's after Christmas! We made it through the holidays... although, we've decided that New Years has become more of a Sports Holiday in the country - So yes, next year, Momma C., we're going to have some sort of semi demi quasi 'who knows yet' Cornbeef and Cabbage tradition.
My past month has looked a lot like - Sick, just barely healthy to get on top of 'immediates', Sick, recovering, Sick, getting back on top... well, you get the jist.
Julie and I did take time to reflect on our year. A friend of mine introduced me to these questions... So we went with it... I'm sure there's more we could add here, but it was more of a little exercise just to get into meaningful reflexion. Next we're going to look ahead. Do the 'set some goals' thing. but for now... We're Reflecting...

1. What was the hardest thing you had to do this year?

Going to Julie’s mom’s wedding the week after my parents visited which was right after we got back from Europe… and all the emotions.

Earlier this year, I had some difficult conversations and misunderstandings with a college student... yeah, difficult.

2. What was the most fun this year?

Lake Tahoe! Jumping Rocks and playing two dogs at Chimney beach, and followed up with Smoothies.
Watching Food Network. Making Food Network Meals with Friends! (smoked salmon on the grill with wood planks with glaze, Pumpkin Cheesecake, trying Rachel Ray dinners/reading her magazine, grilled sweet potatoes, eggplant, and mojitos!)
Going to Sea Shamu World.
Going to Yosemite. Water Falls! Brown Bears!

3. What were the milestones of 2007?

Europa Trip!
Getting into Grad School at Pepperdine.
Teaching High School (after 4 years in Middle school).
Getting Grad School Paid For!
Seeing Two awesome people respond to the Call of Following Jesus.
Playing in a International LA-based Soccer League
Two Week Intensive: studying Ephesians and serving our pastors
Sharing Season Tickets to the LA Galaxy – Experiencing Beckham Mania

4. What was your biggest accomplishment?

33% of Middle schoolers score proficient.
Getting into Grad School.
Being in Grad School!

5. What was something you wanted to do, but didn't?

Start swimming on a swim team. Stay in touch with friends. Study Spanish.

6. What was your biggest surprise?

The transition to High School was very difficult and unexpected. Finding out our friend, Sara, was pregnant, and then the baby being born 6 weeks early!

7. What was the meanest thing you did?

Yelled at julz in Staples over something frivolous. (Julie wants to rank hers; depending on the class time and week ;)

8. What was something you worried about that you don't worry about now?

Getting into Grad School. How we would pay for Grad. School. (yes, there is a theme here… simple, yet true.)

9. What made you proud?

Seeing Two of our runners becoming leaders for the squad.
Seeing Stephen share his faith.
Hearing other teachers Praise Julie.
Hearing other teachers praise Julies students.
Concert for Kenya with Josh Garrels

10. Meaningful Visitors to LA?

Beau and Carmel stayed at the Vagabond. It was so stinking hot in LA, we had to find AC!
Josh and Michelle – we had a blast, cooking and surfing.
Mom and Dad Christman – it was so meaningful to have them share in our lives and work – Dad’s wisdom and Moms contagious excitement about all things life... and shopping.
Julies mom, Cecelia, visited San Diego – we had great weather and fellowship.
My buddy Brad Wisler – Experiencing South Central together, just sharing our hearts, seeing over priced real estate and US Soccer team from a fancy box seat

11. Finally, describe a moment you want to remember.

Europe. Over and Over. Tulleries. Orsay! 7 Mile Jog – all over Paris. Came around this building, the wind hit my face, and BOOM, right there was the Eiffel Tower! Amsterdam. Running out into the countryside, seeing the rowers, the young men yell at the old women, seeing the poo, and then I (Julie) had to poo, then it rained that night and we rode bikes across town, 20 min., in the cold rain. Experiencing the first sabbath of Advent in the medieval church, Cathedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulalia, with believers singing from their hearts... in Catalyunian Spanish...

(We took our running squad to this crazy lite up house in South LA... and Manny in the back ground jumping crazy, like he is... he makes us 'light up' :)

...Toy Driving

2007-12-20T17:18:00.000-08:00

This week has been crazy! As I'm sure many of your lives have been crazy too... Well, Jewelz and I returned from the snowy cold rainy Midwest late Sunday night. We went to Kentucky, as we were part of Jewelz mom's wedding... It was a very fast and full time.

This week we jumped right into Running, Staff work, and... 'tis the season, the Kairos annual Toy Drive! (With all of this going on, I haven't really captured, processed, or transitioned from all of our Europe experiences!... I hope to get time to journal and slow down...) Also, worth mentioning, I got sick this week, plus 3 others on our running team... We're resting. (Of Note, My mom got the LA 'bug' bad and is back in Indiana this week, resting...)

Have I mentioned how awesome our runners are this year!? Well, They Rock! We took 8 of South Centrals finest to Kairos on Tuesday to help get all the madness, that is the Toy Drive, in order. They worked hard, and had a great time. The Toy Drive is Saturday, the 22nd, and we're expecting 1000 kids will be served! It's an unreal site. If you're around, come by and help.

:Gabby, Richard (whose proud of the SpongeBob undies), and Katherine:

:Amarilas, Manny (Team Captain!), Chanel, Araceli:

:Jewelz and Sophia:

:THe Whole Posse:

Half Marathon

2007-12-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

We had the Irvine Half Marathon on Saturday with our after-school mentoring program. Here is Jewelz on the last mile - Pressing Hard!

Christian, our Assistant Coach, Manny, team captain, and Richard cheering in the rest of the team! (with 'home-made' signs, none-the-less!)

On the Right is Luis, a Sophomore at Foshay - He looks so happy! This is right before the finish line. (the other runner is from another school)

We are really proud of our team. They all did so well with energy and encouraging attitudes. We really feel like God's Spirit is leading and blessing this team.

For us, its a whirlwind since we just got back from Europe. My parents just got into town, and next weekend we go to Julie's mom's wedding in Kentucky.

on Returning

2007-12-04T10:59:00.000-08:00

Julie and I just returned to LA... its so warm!
(yes, we've been conditioned...)

We traveled for 18 hours yesterday. It was a long one.

Upon returning, I saw the San Gabriel Mountains, and Mt. Baldy covered in snow... and the LA basin... I thought, this place is really unique!

I do plan to update our blog with pictures... and keep it up through the year for family fun...

for now, here is a picture from amsterdam... Yes, thats real Leather, dyed black... I found it at a market for a friend of mine in San Diego... If there were two, i'd have my own, so I could resist sporting it... The natives thought I looked amazing and were all jealous...

WHen in ROME...

2007-11-29T02:02:00.000-08:00

Whew! Rome has been amazing!
and amazingly overwhelming...

I've been sick since amsterdam... riding bikes in the Rain will do that, I suppose. Everyday has been a bit of a battle just to see things and rest and take medicine...

Being in Rome has really started to complete our trip. Our 4 flavors and 4 cities... Barcelona is next and we feel like it will be a bit of a 'homecoming' as it will have the most similar climate and food to LA... We thought Amsterdam felt the most american... with soup and sandwiches for lunch... and the sounds in the city seemed more familiar... Rome, out of Paris and Amsterdam, has been the least familiar and most difficult to get around. It just doesn't seem preoccupied with 'serving the tourist'... We've got around just fine, but its the small things... each bus stop doesn't have a map, Paris did...

We have really enjoyed all the history and smells and tastes... Julie especially loves the pasta at a resturant right next to our little place... the creamy veal tortallini!

I dont suggest doing Rome in 3 days... but if you must... :
Santa Marie Maggorie ... really was amazing...
Coloseum... paying for the english tour was worth it, just to get that added realism...
Palantine Hill & the Forum... our english tour took us thruogh this as well... really just blew us away...

day 2:
Vatican Museum... this was TOO overwhelming... unfortunately, i didnàt really like the experience of it... just too many people being shuffled through... but some highlights were Rapheals rooms, and the cistine chapel... It really struck me how the place is layed out to show you, the visitor, the pagan greeks, romans, and 'crescendoing' with the height of the church adn the cistine chapel...

St. Peters Basilica... after the museum, this was too much, but its right there, so we did it... and the light was just perfectly coming through the windows... it really is enormous and was overwhelming, too...

Spanish steps to Trevi Fountain to Pantheon to Trastevere... This was a highlight for me... just the walk through the back streets... and the Pantheon is amazing... to think Hadrian built it 2500 years ago...

Yesterday ... we went to a deserted Orvieto, a medieval hill town in Umbria... It was a beautiful day and it was really nice to get out of town... but most of the shops and restuarants were closed... the Duomo is amazing there... you'll have to google that to get all the specs...

Off to Barcelona... On the train ride yesterday we had a great talk about life and family, and we look forward to getting back and sharing all our experiences...

Museums

2007-11-25T00:37:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving; via the Pilgrims first stop

2007-11-25T00:26:00.000-08:00

So, As you may know, the Pilgrims first left England and found acceptance in Holland. So having thanksgiving in Amsterdam was kind of a 'home-coming' of sorts... The fellowship here had a nice big traditional turkey, sweet potatoes and stuffing... all the fixings'! It was a blessing and such a nice way to end our time in Amsterdam.

Eric and Eva slicing the bird!
This is a pecan chocolate pie that the ladies made... without corn syrup, because you can't find it in the grocery store here, but with a little help from a friend, they made it with honey... it was yummy...
Julie bought this "Pilgrim" from Party Plus... Eva loved the decorations... it was fun to bring some decor from the states...

This is Seth... from England... He really enjoyed 'thanksgiving'... We shared a love for turkey, football, and the band U2... he works for a fancy stroller company called Buggaboo...

Amsterdam = Bicycling

2007-11-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

Since being in Amsterdam we've had some great experiences... We've been able to fellowship and rest with Eva... a great friend and missionary in the city...

Amsterdam is a really 'cute' city... and pretty... Its quite the change from Paris. On our last day there we squeezed into a metro... literally... it was like sardines... Now in Amsterdam, in the land of IKEA, and many American businesses and products - it's feels like a world away from Paris. If anything else, just the autonomy of the bikes... has been freeing ... and challenging.... here's my bike series...

It's been rainy... and we only have two bikes... thus the "ride sharing"...

Lyon

2007-11-23T14:20:00.000-08:00

Going back here... as I made it to a camera store in Amsterdam and got a new battery and charger... Lyon seems like a world away! but I'll share a couple of photos.

This is the 18th century Church that overlooks the city. To the left of the Church are Roman ruins... and from where I'm taking the picture is near the oldest part of the city. Of which there is a church built in Gothic Style, similar to the Notre Dame (Lyon and Paris have always competed... Lyon, wealthy from the silk trade, claim to save Paris from bankruptcy and hence holding an 'upper hand')... and this church (not pictured) is built upon two other churches... one dating to before 100 a.d. - that's pretty old! and I find it interesting that believers were here, in Lyon, and had built a church by 100 a. d. It really spoke to me about how the testimony of Jesus, and his disciples, was so real, immediate, and relevant.

These are some of my classmates with Pepperdine. They are so varied and incredible folks. from left to Right: Humberto (from north valley LA), Ray (LA), Barbara (Northridge, CA), Lori (she's Eskimo, and from Anchorage, Alaska), Eric (Seattle), Max (Russia via Isreal via San Fransico), Eric (Texas)

This is Lyon from up on the hill.

Ray at the Roman Amphitheatre... It was really interesting to see how these are preserved in the midst of this city.
I experienced Autumn!

This is the Pink Tower, of which Lyon is very famous. This is in the old medieval, and renaissance area of the town. The famed Medici family own business and homes in Lyon.

Part of my class experience was working with the Chamber of Commerce and their interest in Environmental Sustainability. These are bikes which the city provides, and the public can pay to use them from one stop to another. They are free for the first 31 minutes, after that your credit card is charge per hour. There are over 4,000 bikes. The idea is very successful... So much so that Paris adopted the idea. (another point which Lyon is proud of...)

True Parisian Experience

2007-11-18T09:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhh,.... SO, After it taking Julie 5 hours to get from the airport to the Hotel, We finally met up at our cute little Hotel - Hotel Amelie, over 100 years old, no lift, and tiny stairway painted in red (of course)...

Why the long trip from the airport? The Train drivers are striking for more benefits... the whole city is wild and a little chaotic... we've managed, though.

Yesterday the weather was beautiful. We went to the Louvre. Overwhelmed with Renaissance, and saw Monna's smirk (we especially like The Wedding Feast at Cana, and julie went bonkers over King Henry's crown and jewelry...)
Then off to the Noh-ter Dam (It really is prime Gothic Architecture with amazing Stain glass, and Choir loft with Wooden Carved Scenes of the Bible...)

Oh, and our adventure... I forgot my digital camera battery... and charger... in Lyon! (I Know! So frustrating...) So we went to the Sears of France, BHV, but to no avail... we'll keep looking...

TODAY -
Has been FREEZING, we are so spoiled being from SO. CAL... Since we are 'coaches' and runners - we ran a brief 1 hour, down the Champs Elysees, Arc de Triumph, Rue de Foch, in the Bois de Boulagne (a huge city park, in classic romantique/english style) around Lac Inferior, and down Trocadero, under the bitter, windy, awe-inspiring Eiffel Tower, and back to our little hotel!...
later, it was so cold, but we managed to get inside... We went to the awesomely transformed Train Station into Impressionist Art Museum, Musee D'Orsay - It was a highlight to see Degas, Monet, Manet, and the Van Gogh room was stunning...
The architecture really is stunning... looking through clocks... and experiencing the place...

(To go back to last week for a moment)
I have a lot of pictures of Lyon... and I had a special night in Lyon - I say Lyon vs. Marseilles in a WILD, very European, atmosphere! Two of my classmates went and had an awesome time. The stadium was so loud! for the entire match! (The class was very intense, as typical of this program... with a lot of personal learning, team work projects, and being immersed in the Lyonnaise (no, it's not like the mayo version :)... Lyon is very famous for it's Gastronomy, (which I could smell you all about!)

We happened upon this internet cafe in the Latin Quarter... so I apologize for not posting more... but without internet or phones my communication is very limited...

In a couple of days we will be in Amsterdam... and I should have more access to internet, and, Hopefully, a battery and charger, and I will download some photos!

Au revoir!

G$ and Jewelz

Our Itenerary

2007-11-06T10:42:00.001-08:00

Many may be wondering exactly were will be going in Europe and what we'll be seeing... this is our tentative "GUIDE"... This may be too detailed for you... but I thought I'd share it!

I"ll be in LYON, FR. From the 6th to the 16th...

Oh, In Paris, our hotel is near the River and Les Invalides... For all the Historians, this has all the crazy Napoleon History!

For a cool interactive map of Paris, click here...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paris Friday 16^th – 20^th

v Fri 16

o 3:10 pm Meet My Love in the city d’Amore

o "Paris Illumination" nighttime bus tour

v Sat. 17

o Louvre

o Notre Dame

o Latin Quarter

v Sun. 18

o Museo d’Orsay

o Montmarte Walk; Sacré-Coeur basilica

o Eiffel Tower – dusk?

v Mon 19

o Bus 73 – champs elysees, arch de triumph, gran arch de la defense

o Marsais / Jewish Quarter / Pompidou Center / Picasso Museum?

o Marie’s Art Gallery

v Tues 20

o Train to Amsterdam

Amsterdam Tuesday 20 – 25^th

Ø Bike Tour ala Angelenos Take Over!

Ø Thanksgiving:

Ø Relax: Tour guide Eva: Ideas galore… Soccer Game

Ø ann franks house, the resistance museum

Ø van goh museum

Ø day trip to Haarlem

Ø albert cuyp market - de pijp - bazar restaurant, eastern docklands - ij - east of central station, canal architecture tour, western canal belt - 9 alleys

Ø 11am Travel to Eindhoven (train) - Flight at 2:30

Rome Sunday 25^th- 29^th

Ø Sunday 25^th - Arrive 4:30

Ø Monday 26^th

o Vatican, St. Peters, Cistene Chapel

o Trastevere – Jewish quarter

Ø Tuesday 27^th

o the churches Santa Maria Maggiore, San Clemente, and San Giovanni in Laterano, San Luigi dei Francesi

o Forum, then over Capitol Hill to the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza del Popolo to the Spanish Steps

Ø Wednesday 28^th

o Orvieto and Civita… (Villa D’Este?)

Ø Thursday 29^th

o More Art? Fountains? More Gelato?

o Travel – Depart 4:25

Barcelona Thursday 29^th – 3rd

Arrive 6:25 (hrs to hotel? By bus)

Friday

o Parc Guell

o Gaudi me Crazy!

Saturday 1^st

o Montjuic – magic foutain

o Catalan Concert Hall (Palau de la Música Catalana)

Sunday 2^nd

o Salvi Dali… Picasso… Modern Art Museum?

o Gothic Quarter – cathedral

o Montserrat?

Monday 3^rd

o Depart By Bus 4:30am (ouch!)

Our first post

2007-11-06T10:37:00.000-08:00

So, We realized... We are WAY active, and we don't share our experiences fast enough! So why don't we start a blog about our journeys, travels, and happenings... We came upon this title via Julie's friend, Eva, ... We like it...

As you may know Julie just turned 31~! We had a nice dinner and Julie made the most amazing cheesecakes! (Yes, I suppose we're becoming more Asian, as it's a tradition there to serve your friends dinner on your birthday... We had a lot of fun, regardless!)