::padilla tortilla::

Good Intentions vs. Action

2010-12-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

Often during the week I'll think of something that I ought to do: write a card to someone I appreciate, pay a visit to an old friend who is bed-ridden, etc. I'll intend on it, but inevitably it is forgotten in the hustle of a busy week. (Sidenote: My dad is so good at not forgetting. Sometimes it drives me crazy because he'll pester me all week until I follow-through. I have something to learn from him.)

There is a big difference between having a fleeting thought and taking action.

I was struck by the generosity of my friends this week. They have rearranged their house and begun construction on an addition to house another family who just arrived last night from the Philippines after being separated for over 8 years. It wasn't easy, but they did it because they love this family.

I want to make sure and not put them up on a pedestal. I'm sure the next few months are not going to be easy as the clash of cultures, discipline styles, family values etc., begin to pop up in the tight quarters. It's going to be a journey. There will now be 4 little boys and 4 parents under one roof.

I'm sure the thought of opening their home could have easily been left as a conversation about what would be nice to do, but they actually DID IT. I feel like this is a magnificent expression of Love. I want to be like this. I have so many things... so many resources... so much money compared to the rest of the world. I want to become better at sharing.

I hope that when I have the opportunity to do something like this, I take action.

Within 10 minutes of meeting, the boys were already playing Legos. Cool moment.

Busy Summer

2010-08-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

My life is incredibly full. I love it. I have so many posts I want to make, but for now...

Bella Art Fest was this last weekend. Our team has been planning this for months. It paid off. It was such a beautiful evening! I'm so proud to be part of it all.

I'll write more at a later time.

Can you spare $10?

2010-06-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

Any of you want to pitch in $10 to help cover the cost of bringing out an amazing piece of artwork to Bellflower this summer? I'm ridiculously excited about the Invitation Sculpture making it's first stop on the US Tour in Bellflower. I have high hopes for what some public art can do in our sleepy downtown.

$10 will cover 10 miles of the journey from Geneva to Bellflower. Whatcha say?

What is Kingdom Causes?

2010-05-03T20:12:00.001-07:00

Community Garden - Trial 4?

2010-04-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

This time.

This time we will succeed.

This was my birthday present from Eric and Joel (a planter garden) Cute, right?! What I love about this gift is that it's a group effort. My neighbors have been watching the multi-day process (building the planter box, filling with dirt, planting, etc.) and planted some seeds as well. I'll keep you posted. We can't let this one die.

Some more pictures of the group effort:

Ello Govna

2010-04-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

Pretty sure if this thing talked it would have an English accent and good manners.

(He hung out on our window for 24 hours.)

Year One Complete!

2010-04-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

That's right. I've been a barista for ONE YEAR! It snuck up on me.

But can I be honest about something... I still don't drink my coffee black. I feel like I'm breaking some barista rule by adding cream and sugar to my coffee. I prefer foofy drinks. What can I say? It has nothing to do with the quality of coffee... I just like it sweet.

Thank you, Omar & Angelica for hiring me a year ago. Casa de Luna has become a second home for me and my friends.

Settling

2010-04-05T21:07:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, Anna, gave me a book to read. I'm liking it so far. Here's a challenging excerpt that struck me...

The process by which we let go of our hopes to make a difference for God and settle for making a living is subtle and gradual. In our late teens and early twenties, we promise ourselves we'll defy the rat race, but like lint to a hairball, we get snaged. First we get sidetracked from mission as we pay off school debt. Next we postpone our ideals to squeeze in a little fun time before we get serious. Then we opt for good money to prepare for a marriage partner and family. Before we realize it, two decades have passed, and our best intentions to serve the Lord in mission have funneled down the drain of midlife, leaving a bathrub ring of unmet expectations. Or worse, we don't even notice the change that has slowly eclipsed our original dreams as we grow accustomed to a life of second thoughts. What is left is a house, or houses, full of good things, and a vague suspicion that, in the words of poet William Stafford, "we have followed the wrong god home."

Excerpt from Sub-merge by John B. Hayes

80s

2010-03-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

Stole this picture from Tia. This was Shaun's 30th birthday. You can figure out the theme. I think Rachel looks the most realistic. I borrowed the outfit from my friend, Jen. Must remember to borrow more clothes from her :)

Medicine

2010-03-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

Meant to post this about a month ago.

I happen to have some fabulous friends. After being cooped up in the house for 7 days, they took me out to San Pedro for some fun. It was pretty windy that day, thus the blanket. We visited the Azul Gallery and ate at the San Pedro Brewing Co before visiting the Korean Friendship Bell. Considering our company, it seemed fitting. Haven't felt sick since then. :)

Eat down the street

2010-03-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

I like this. Visit the 3/50 Project online.

American Idol: Andrew Garcia

2010-02-24T16:44:00.000-08:00

Hey friends. If you know me well, you know I'm not a big TV watcher... but...

An old friend has made it to the top 24 of American Idol. This is Monica & Sergio's little cousin. So if you're around tonight, please watch... and please vote. In all honesty, I have no clue how to vote as of yet, but I will figure it out by tonight.

Umbrella

2010-02-10T09:54:00.000-08:00

My umbrella broke Abbey's windshield. I had no clue those things were so dangerous.

Apparently I'm not bright enough to handle an umbrella.

Dr. Perkins speaks on immigration reform

2010-01-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

I was honored to be at this event.

2010-01-27T07:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I joined hundreds of other Christians in Phoenix to stand in solidarity with our undocumented neighbors... to pray for a humane & just immigration reform. Comprehensive Immigration Reform, if you will.

I realize this is a sticky subject. But please hear me out as I try to process what I learned yesterday.

Parallels were drawn between the current immigration crisis and the civil rights issues of 50 years ago. I'm not saying that they're the same thing, but there are a few striking similarities. The most crushing? The silence of the evangelical church.

Why didn't we speak up for our black brother and sister? Why didn't we cry out for justice? It seems pretty clear in the Old Testament what we're called to do as God's people.

Yet, I wonder... what would I have done if I was living through the Civil Rights Movement era? Would I have been silent? Would I have used my voice?

I'm moved to use my voice to speak out for my undocumented neighbor now. My words are not eloquent nor am I an expert on the subject, but I can't let that get in the way of action. I must learn more. I must share.

Bellflower Sunset

2010-01-22T23:32:00.000-08:00

My first Bellflower sunset of 2010. Pretty spectacular.

Vanilla

2010-01-22T23:24:00.000-08:00

Scored some vanilla beans in Zanzibar for some crazy-cheap price. I attempted to make a vanilla pudding dessert for my friends one night.

FAILED.

Summary

2010-01-22T22:35:00.000-08:00

I do realize how lucky I am to travel. Last New Year's I was in Indonesia with the Copeland's. This year I was in East Africa with Cody. This must not become a pattern. I can't afford it.

Loved Rwanda! Had my first motorcycle ride there. That's how you get around... on motos. Of course I was freaked out of my mind for the first ride, but after that, I got the hang of it. Glad Cody convinced me to get a little out of my comfort zone. Actually, I kinda like riding on motorcycles. Only in Africa, though. Not here.

It was awesome to see the hospital they're building up in Burera. My favorite things about their design is the way they have the hospital beds strategically placed by a window with a gorgeous view. I also dig the stone walls.

We hung out in Rwanda through Christmas and then flew to Dar es Salaam & Zanzibar for New Years. Zanzibar was, hands down, the most beautiful place I've ever visited.

Loved Stonetown. The buildings were full of charm. The food was great... especially the outdoor market by the port. We stayed a night at Zanzibar Coffee House which was an old Sultans palace converted to a hotel.

Loved the tropical beaches. The water was perfect at Kendwa. Bright turquoise, cool, calm water. Even when it was too deep to stand, I could still see my toes. See pictures in previous posts to understand why I'm such a huge fan. It's pretty hot & humid, which is my LEAST favorite weather, but I'd still go back in a heartbeat.

Tangent: Did you know Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar. In honor of the rock legend we listened to a Queen mix on my ipod on the ferry boat ride back to the Dar es Salaam. Not a huge fan of that place, by the way.

We also spent some time in Nairobi before heading back. It was mostly for his work, but I enjoyed exploring the little part of the city that we did see.

All and all... superb trip. I enjoyed my glimpse into Cody's world and time away from mine.

Only word I remember: Umudugudu (which means something like community and hill)

New Year's in Zanzibar

2010-01-04T08:18:00.000-08:00

Last sunset of 2009

Kendwa Beach - New Year's Day

Stories & descriptions to come.

Stonetown, Zanzibar

2010-01-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

Stonetown was simply amazing. We spent a few days wandering around the twisted alleys in Zanzibar. It was ridiculously hot and humid, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Here are some pictures...

Burera Christmas

2009-12-25T11:30:00.000-08:00

Here's a little photo update from Rwanda. I have some fun videos that I'll upload when we have a better internet connection. Enjoy!

Took this picture a few days ago up by the hospital site. Love the green hills...

Cody got up early to take some pics of the hospital at sunrise. Check out the fog in the background sitting on the hills...

Christmas day on Lake Burera...

Lucas kindly drove us around on Christmas. He's rad. After the lake, he surprised us with a stop at a local village to hang out with some friends/family. He made it feel more like Christmas...

Kayaking on Lake Burera on Christmas...

We're heading out to Tanzania tomorrow night. Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

Londontown

2009-12-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

Real quick... here are some pics I took in London on my 14 hour layover between LA and Kigali. Made it safe & sound.

Proud of Casa :)

2009-12-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Update

2009-12-01T22:05:00.000-08:00

Didn't make the paper. I guess my bike isn't THAT cute.

Bellflower Bike/Pedestrian Path Ribbon Cutting

2009-11-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

Today was the Bike/Pedestrian Path Ribbon Cutting. Our friend, Steve, won one of the three bikes that was raffled off. He wanted me to take a picture for him. I just love these Bellflower events.

There were a ton of photographers there and I tried my hardest to get in at least one picture with my bike. I'll let you guys know if I made the cut.

Tryptophantastic 2009

2009-11-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

This morning we got up (sorta) early for 4th Annual Tryptophantastic (almost) 5K run/walk through Bellflower. It's tradition! Here are some pics from the morning.

This might be the first time I've ever seen my roomie up before noon... especially on a holiday or weekend. We tried to get her to dress up as Panda, but she declined because she was worried it was slow her down.

Malachi being silly. Sometimes he does these faces that remind me of Paul Copeland. :) Love it!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Hope you have time to take a nice long nap after eating all that turkey. I will be.

Shootin' the Breeze.

2009-11-24T09:34:00.001-08:00

Every morning I sweep the back patio at Casa de Luna. When people walk by I find myself making remarks about the weather. "Looks like it's going to be a lovely day!" or "I'm loving this chilly weather."

When I say these things I picture myself as an old man sitting in the front of his store that's been around for generations. He knows everyone's name and how they're family members are doing. He talks about the outrageous gas prices and whatnot.

I know I'm not an old man. But it makes me smile when I think of my morning interactions with friendly strangers.

Arrowhead Retreat

2009-11-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

This weekend I was fortunate enough to get away to Lake Arrowhead with the girls from my Urban Youth Workers learning community. This is the second time we've been able to retreat to the mountains.

It was so refreshing. It's amazing how much clarity you have when you slow down... and breathe. Sometimes I feel like God doesn't speak to me. I know he does, and I see it in hindsight. Yet, when I give myself time to just be still, I hear.

Anyway, I had a great time. I was hoping to catch some more Fall colors in the trees, but most of their leaves had already fallen off. There was an apple tree out on the lake in front of the cabin. I wanted to eat the apple, but I couldn't reach it, so I just took a picture.

Latte Art - Improving

2009-11-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

I know it's not a huge deal to anyone but me... but still! Check out the heart and swirls! I was so excited I had to take a picture with the camera on my phone. I'm getting better with my free-pour skills. Boo yah.

A Eucalyptus Thanksgiving

2009-11-19T20:13:00.000-08:00

We had twenty of our neighborhood kids over last night for a pre-Thanksgiving family meal. We brought in some extra tables to make one gigantic long table for everyone to sit at. It was so much fun! We put all the food out on the table so the kids had to pass them around and share. I loved it! It was crazy, though. I'm sure you can tell by my shiny tired face. :)

Mistake

2009-11-17T07:58:00.001-08:00

This morning I accidentally poured coffee instead of hot water in my bowl of oatmeal. It actually tasted okay.

I'm tired.

I'm an auntie! (Sorta)

2009-11-13T22:36:00.000-08:00

My cousin had her baby girl. Her name is Faith. Isn't she beautiful?

What are we?

2009-10-25T23:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight we dressed up for Casa's halloween party. And can I just say... we cut the rug. Best night everrrrrr.

Who's in?

2009-10-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year... Well, not quite yet (Although, I did see a banner already hung across Bellflower Blvd. for the Christmas Tree Lighting).

Knowing myself and what a spaz I can be, I have to start thinking about these things now. Otherwise my noble intentions get thrown to the waste side in the rush of the season. I'm writing this post a) because I want my friends to help hold me accountable to spending my money in a way that honors God and b) because the message of this video is critical and I want you to at least think twice about it.

Couldn't resist...

2009-10-22T11:28:00.001-07:00

I'm having a fabulous hair day!

René

2009-10-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

René turned sixteen today. I wish I could tell you about her life. She's been through so much. Yet. Yet, she's full of hope and love. She's made some major mistakes and got caught up in all kinds of trouble, but she keeps striving to do right and to love others. And when she messes up, she tells you. She doesn't let pride get in the way of her asking for forgiveness and admitting being wrong. I can learn a lot from her.

René never was celebrated the way she should have been on her previous birthdays. This year was different. It wasn't an extravagant birthday party, but a simple dinner with close friends hosted by her new family. We went around the table and shared why we love René. Usually I'm not a huge fan of scheduled affirmation, but this was different. It was beautiful. One by one each friend/mentor/adopted-family-member shared how they were proud of René. And it was genuine.

When it was all said and done René wanted a turn to say something. She ended up going around the table and telling each one of us how we've played an important role in her life. It wasn't forced. I was beautiful. Her candid conversation and humbleness stirred me.

Please don't get me wrong. René is not perfect. She still struggles with so many things, as we all do, but her willingness to set aside her pride is something that I wish I had.

When I was invited, I almost didn't go. I'm selfish like that. I had a long day at work and just wanted to go home and rest. But I did go. I'm thankful to God that I did.

Opera

2009-10-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

There's a sweet man that sings opera out on the curb as he waits for the bus. I pass him every morning on my bike. He used to stop when I would ride by, but now he continues singing and gives me a nod hello.

Cooking with Neighbors

2009-09-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

It was spaghetti night on Eucalyptus Avenue tonight.

Update on Latte Art

2009-09-30T09:20:00.001-07:00

I have no skills.

Visit me and order a latte

2009-09-29T22:09:00.000-07:00

This video inspires me to work more on the presentation of the drinks I serve in the morning. So if you're my friend and live in Bellflower, I think you should come visit me and order a latte so I can practice :) Everyone orders their drinks to go and I never get to play with the foam design.

So...

2009-09-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

I kinda-sorta got a bike. Not just any bike... an olive green beach cruiser with white tires :) I ride it to work. I'm still a little wobbly, but I'm getting better. I plan on purchasing a basket, bell & maybe a little rear-view mirror over the next few months. If you'd like to take the bike for a spin, come by :) It's a community bike... just don't crash it.

(And yes. I did wear a special outfit that would make me look cool on the first day that I got my bike because I knew I'd take a picture. Hello red shoes!)

Rachel

2009-09-22T21:33:00.001-07:00

Rach came out a few weeks ago. We spent some time up in Ventura County, down in San Diego and here around Bellflower/Long Beach. We ate lots of fun dinners and spent good quality time with some of our friends from college. I rented a Prius for the weekend when we were driving all over the place. That was fun. What else? I don't know. But it's just great to have a best friend that you can go a year without seeing and pick-up like nothing's changed. I love her. :) Thanks for sending her out, Justin!

Dream Act

2009-09-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Do you know what the Dream Act is?

Immigration reform has been coming up in a lot of conversations lately. I'm thinking of hosting a house party where we can educate ourselves a little more on the current issues and what scriptures say about it. Not really a black and white issue... but something needs to change.

Anywho, there's a screening for a movie called "Papers" in a few weeks. It's about undocumented students and the trials they face. Want to come with?

Papers
http://papersthemovie.com/index-papers.html

Also, while I was in Capistrano for my cousin's wedding last weekend, I saw an HBO Documentary called "Which Way Home," also about immigration.
http://www.hbo.com/docs/docuseries/whichwayhome/

Frenzied

2009-09-02T15:09:00.001-07:00

"The contemplative who can stand back from a situation and see it for what it is is more threatening to an unjust social system than the frenzied activist who is so involved with the situation that he cannot see clearly at all"

Excerpt from True Prayer by kenneth Leech

This challenges me. I fear I fall into the frenzy more often than I should.

Monrovia... can Bellflower be like this, please?

2009-09-01T09:12:00.000-07:00

Back to life, back to reality...

2009-08-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bella is over! Thank you all for praying & helping out. It didn't rain and people actually showed up! Actually, it was a huge success. I love that the churches worked together to put on such a beautiful event. I think God's love is felt even without words. Anyway, click here or on the picture below to see an album of pictures from the day.

I'm so excited for tomorrow. Rachel arrives from Missouri! Such perfect timing as a vacation is definitely needed after the last couple of weeks. We're going to spend some time up in Ventura County with friends of the family and then some time down in San Diego. I can't wait to sit next to a pool and relax.

Bella Art Fest in the Press Telegram

2009-08-19T22:20:00.000-07:00

We made the paper! It's just a short little blurb, but it's still press. I've already seen an increase in hits on our website from the PT website and it's only been out for an hour or two. Here's the link:

http://www.presstelegram.com/search/ci_13164005?IADID=Search-www.presstelegram.com-www.presstelegram.com

Here's the full press release... they only shared a snippet, but we're still thankful :)

LOCAL CHURCHES TO HOST COMMUNITY ART FESTIVAL

BELLFLOWER (July 30, 2009)- In an effort to build community in the midst of the economic downturn, local churches, organizations, and residents have joined together to plan the Bella Art Festival, taking place on Saturday, August 22, 2009.

This free event will be held at the Town Center Plaza and will bring out citizens from in and around Bellflower to enjoy the work of local artists & musicians and to participate in a community chalk-drawing contest.

City officials are pleased that events like these are still taking place despite difficult economic times. Assistant director of Parks and Recreation for Bellflower, Ms. Vicki Casañas, noted that family events like these help bring a great feeling of community to the city. She shared that community gatherings provide the intangible feelings that are so necessary for a city to thrive.

Bellflower residents are also excited that cultural events are finding their way to Bellflower. “Events help build a feeling of camaraderie, and they allow everyone to get out and meet each other” said Phyllis Larsen, a Bellflower resident for 60 years. The Art Festival will be a time for families to interact with their neighbors, enjoy various mediums of art created by local artists and musicians, and celebrate their community.

The Bella Art Festival will take place from 4 to 9pm on the 22nd, and will be open to all neighbors both in and around Bellflower. The Town Center Plaza is located off Bellflower Blvd, between the sheriff substation and City Hall. Many volunteers will be needed and artist submissions are still being accepted for the Bella Art Festival. For more information, or to get involved, please visit www.blessbellflower.org

About Bless Bellflower: Bless Bellflower is an organization connected to Kingdom Causes Bellflower (KCB), a 501c3 community non-profit with a Federal Tax ID # of 95-4849998 that has been working since 1999 to organize people in Bellflower to bring about the good of the whole community.

My Rachel

2009-08-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

My best friend is coming to visit next week. I can't wait! I know I'm going to need a break after the art fest this weekend. Perfect timing for a visit!

Rach and I were assigned to each other as roommates our freshman year in college. We quickly became good friends. In fact, we were roommates for good part of 7 years. She knows me so well. To this day I can tell her where I'm going for lunch and she can tell exactly what I'm going to order. Am I that predictable? Rach is the closest thing to a sister that I have and I love her very much.

I'm so excited for next week!

(The picture was taken on my 25th birthday when we went for a weekend cruise to Ensenada.)

Great idea for redeeming ugly blighted property...

2009-08-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/video?id=6946704

Too bad the city's zoning laws are getting in the way!

Art Art Art

2009-07-25T12:18:00.000-07:00

Never considered myself an artsy person... but I've had to learn over the years. This is the third year that we've hosted the photo class in the neighborhood. Every year I end up teaching most of it. A) I'm not a teacher and B) I'm not a photographer... but when push comes to shove, you learn new things just to keep the ball rolling. It's actually worked out well as I've learned more tricks and skills with my camera because of it all. This is our photo class trip to Seal Beach last Thursday.

Because the city had to cut most of their funds for parks & rec... majority of my favorite Bellflower events were canceled this year (and maybe next). We thought this would be a great place for the churches in Bellflower to serve by hosting some high-quality community events in our downtown area. Thus the Bella Art Fest. If you hang out with me then you've probably heard an earful already... but just in case... PLEASE SUPPORT THIS EVENT! If you know any local artists, please send them to blessbellflower.org to get more info and to fill out an artist application. We're also recruiting volunteers for the day. Please mark your calendars and plan to hang out that night in the plaza with us. I want to see it packed full of my friends :)

Oh and if you're around tonight (Saturday) stop by Casa de Luna for our Neighborhood Photo Class Exhibit. There will be live music and finger foods. Come support the work!

Party in the front...

2009-07-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to spend more time in the front yard. I think it's a great way to mingle with neighbors. For the Fourth of July, we decided to drag my bbq & kitchen table/chairs out front to enjoy the evening. We bought some extra meat for neighbors to eat. It was delightful! Here are some pictures from the night. Oh did you see my cute apron on the top picture?

Chaka Khan anyone??

2009-07-04T09:58:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we went to the Hollywood Bowl to see Adele and Etta James. Etta James got sick at the last minute and Chaka Khan took her place. I wasn't sure what to expect but she ended up rocking the place. It was hysterical!

Adele was stunning. Besides having an amazing voice, she was a blast to watch up on stage. Very disarming and very charming. That was my first time to the bowl. We're heading back next weekend to see Ray LaMontagne. I can't wait!

Best night ever!

Rachel's Blessing Way

2009-07-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd post some pictures from Rachel's blessing way. You can click on the picture or click here to see the pictures.

Wednesday Nights

2009-07-01T22:32:00.000-07:00

When I first moved into the neighborhood I had a vision of my dinner table filled with neighbors sharing a meal and laughing together. I think God's love is understood that way... sometimes without words. This is how I love my neighbors. I want my home to be a safe place where deep (and sometimes not-so-deep) conversations can take place. I want people to feel welcomed. I want them to feel God's love.

As badly as I wanted this from the moment I moved in... it doesn't happen over night. It takes time.

On Wednesdays nights our house is bursting to the seams with neighbor kids and friends cooking together, eating together and then learning about God's love. Wednesday nights at our house is a glimpse of what I first envisioned back in 2006. And as much as I'd like to think it's all of my hard work that is finally paying off... I know that what makes Wednesdays so beautiful is nothing that I do.

Same thing with the sunflowers in the front yard. When I plant a garden it quickly shrivels up and dies. The sunflowers weren't planted by me. I didn't water them. I can't take credit. And they grew the most!

I guess what I'm saying is that it's humbling and beautiful how God causes certain things to blossom in his own timing. Wednesday nights with the teens has become something amazing and authentic in it's own time. I can't take credit for it. I can only recognize God's sovereignty in it all.

3/50 Project... A lovely idea!

2009-06-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

Martha emailed me a link to their website. I love love love it! Please take a look and see why it's a good thing to "buy local."

And then come and buy a latte from me on a weekday morning from Casa de Luna. :)

Artsy things in Bellflower???

2009-06-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

Bellflower Approves Five Art Works For Village Project

Plans are in the works for an Art festival in Bellflower. Today I was doing some research on local artists in Bellflower and I stumbled on to this oh so amazing article about some public art that will be attached to the new lofts downtown. I hope it's as cool as I think it could be.

"BELLFLOWER — A six-unit live/work building at 9815 Walnut St. will display the first art work under the Art in Public Places Law approved in 2005. The City Council Monday night approved the art project — five large, colorful mosaics by artist Robin Indar, a $20,000 project to be funded by the development company." You can read the rest of the article in the link above.

By the way... how did I not know about this ordinance? I guess it doesn't really make a difference to me because a) i'm not an artist and b) i don't own property. But it still makes me super happy.

That... and it's raining and thundering outside.

Road Trip

2009-05-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I went on a last-minute road trip with Eric, Heather & Monica. We didn't allow the Memorial Day Weekend traffic get in our way. Friday afternoon we left Bellflower and headed for San Francisco. We made bets on what time we'd enter the city limits. I said 10:43pm. What time do you think we entered the city limits? That's right... 10:43pm. We spent all day Saturday in the city and left Sunday morning for Monterey to peruse around the aquarium and cannery row. Pictures coming soon!

Pantages

2009-05-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

My mom's best friend, Ronda, always takes care of us. She bought us all tickets to the Pantages a few weeks ago to see Dirty Dancing. Ronda is also responsible for the fire pit & bbq in my backyard. I'm spoiled. Here are some pics from the night:

Colossians 3:12-17

2009-05-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Kingdom Causes Dinner

2009-05-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Monica, Heather and I at the Kingdom Causes dinner. I like them. They make me laugh. I'm thankful for all my friends that stayed late and did dishes. Thanks for making me look so good. ;)

Gallery Night @ Casa de Luna

2009-05-09T10:48:00.000-07:00

Last night was packed! We had a gallery night for our artist of the month, Celso Barcena, and some live music.

Yay for 27!

2009-04-28T09:27:00.001-07:00

Last week we had a little shindig for my birthday at the coffee shop. I was thinking it would be more of an open-house-ish feeling, but my mom turned it into a full on party. She made delicious food (mostly from scratch!) and displayed it on the table like a feast. I felt so blessed to have so many of my friends and family members there hanging out and celebrating my birthday. I love when my different groups of people that I care about mingle together. Thanks, mom, for hooking us up with delicious food. Thanks, Omar & Angelica, for letting us hang out at Casa de Luna and for my awesome cake. Thanks, everyone, for celebrating with me. Here are some pictures from the night. Happy birthday to me!

Coffee Art

2009-04-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't quite mastered the whole foam art thing, so I compensate by decorating with syrups. You likey?

Seder Meal

2009-04-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

Every year our house church gets together on Maundy Thursday for a Seder Meal. I didn't grow up with too many religious traditions, so participating in this during the last couple years has been a new experience. Here are some pictures from that night:

Casa de Luna 1st Day Pics

2009-04-06T22:44:00.001-07:00

I'm in week two of barista life at Casa de Luna and I'm loving it. Angelica was wonderful enough to take some pictures of my first day. Keith and Eric were my first customers.

You should come in and see me. I'm here most mornings until 9:30am. Thanks for all of your support. I'm thankful for my community.

Bob Lupton

2009-04-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

In case any one is interested... Bob Lupton will be speaking at a conference in Riverside tomorrow night and Saturday morning. You can hitch a ride with me either days. I'm so going.

Bob Lupton is the author of my favorite book "Theirs is the Kingdom." It's on my bookshelf to the right of this blog entry. It's challenged me so much over the last couple of years.

I'm excited to hear him speak. You should come with.

Baristalicious

2009-04-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day as a barista... and... I LOVED IT! I'll post pictures of my first drinks and customers. You should stop by and visit me any morning this week between 7 and 9:30am. Please don't order anything too complicated and make sure to tip good :)

Sick!

2009-03-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

Colds are lame. My barista life has been postponed til Wednesday. Hopefully I'll be better by then.

Coffee Shops & Prayers

2009-03-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share a portion of my journal from December 28, 2008. I was sitting in the airport in Taipei waiting for my flight to Bali. I was reflecting on my life in 2008 writing some of my thoughts and dreams down in a prayer of sorts to God. I wrote "I want to walk down the street and have a coffeeshop to meet friends at..."

It's been three months since I wrote that. In the meantime, an awesome little place called Casa de Luna opened. It's .8 miles from my house which is perfect walking distance. It's become my "third place." It's only been open a few months, yet it's brought so much life to the area. Photography exhibits, poetry readings, music nights... and there are even more future ideas for bringing life to our Bellflower community.

On Monday I start working with Omar & Angelica at Casa de Luna. Working at a coffee shop has always been a dream of mine. I'm excited for this next season of life. Who would've thought I'd have the opportunity to work at a quality coffee shop in Bellflower? Months ago I was bitter at the lack of quality businesses in our city... and now, I get to work for one!

Come in and visit me!

Portrait of Heather and I

2009-03-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

Picture drawn tonight by a second grader. I'm not offended at all.

Today is TB Awareness Day!

2009-03-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

The slogan for this year's TB Awareness Day is "I am stopping TB" ... And I did my part to stop TB this year :) Here's a link for more information: www.stoptb.org.

2009-03-22T16:58:00.001-07:00

Guess USC isn't going all the way.

2009-03-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Okay. I know it's backwards, but if you look hard you should get a kick out of this picture. Joel (a friend & co-worker at Kingdom Causes) made all of our staff fill out a bracket for March Madness. Team builder, for sure. I know that March Madness equals basketball, but for some reason when I hear the word "bracket" I immediately think of football. So I filled out the bracket thinking all the college teams were football... and so I picked USC to win it all. Too bad it's not football... it's basketball... and USC probably won't get past the next round.

YET... ask me who's in the lead right now?

Yup. Chrissy is. Boo yah! I'm beating Ryan, Joel & Aura right now. Haha!

I heart Fresh & Easy

2009-03-19T19:28:00.001-07:00

Oh my gosh. Tonight was the first time I've darkened the doors of a Fresh & Easy. Why did I wait so long??? I love that they have smaller portions of food for sale. I love cooking, but because I don't have a family to feed my food goes bad before I can eat it. This store makes me happy.

Artificial Turf and Permaflex Signs

2009-03-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

Went to another planning commission meeting tonight. It seems the meetings I show up to consist of long discussions about very particular things: synthetic grass or natural grass, acrylic/plexi-glass or permaflex signage. Long discussion! When I'm unable to attend the bi-weekly Monday night meetings... that's the night they discuss things like the Bellflower Village or the Town Center or other things that I'm extremely interested in. I know that discussions about little things are neccessary, but I wish I would attend the meetings where they discuss bigger plans for our city. I know they're out there... the plans... but I just always seem to miss it!

Community

2009-03-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend perfectly packaged the beauty of community. It's the little things... the every day interactions and happenings that make community such a wonderful thing to be a part of. On Friday night a group of us hung out at the local coffee shop (Casa de Luna). We didn't do much besides laugh and listen to the background music provided by a band. On Saturday morning we all got together to help put together a play set in the VerWys' backyard. Actually the guys did most of the work. We ate lunch together and enjoyed some Thrifty's Ice Cream (Chocolate Malted Crunch & Coconut Pineapple, to be exact). Nothing spectacular, but weekends like these are better than vacations for me.

Long Day

2009-03-06T07:48:00.000-08:00

I had a long day on Thursday. My work computer crashed at the worst possible time. I took it to the Apple Store in Costa Mesa and they tried to fix it for free but ended up needing to archive the documents to save them just in case something went bad. That would take a few hours. I didn't want to drive all the way back to Bellflower, so I made a night out of the fiasco. I bought a smoothie and headed down to Corona del Mar to watch the sunset and read. The sunset was gorgeous and I had my camera... so here ya go:

I love the contrast of the golden sun and dark blue sky.

I'm working on my aperture skills. The flowers were fun to focus on because the dark water made a lovely background.

Matchy Matchy

2009-03-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

Let me preface this by saying.... until last night, Heather and I had not seen or spoken to each other since Wednesday night. I was in Chicago and she worked late on Sunday night.

Yet.... How is it that we're wearing almost the same exact outfit. Dark denim, khaki & a salmon/peach shirt? What the heck? It looks like we're going to a Sadie Hawkins dance in our khaki pants there's nothing better... oh oh oh.

This is me trying to be as tall as Heather. We thought it would be funny to take pictures where our heads are cut off. But she's a half a foot taller so that didn't work.

Pics from Chi Town

2009-03-02T21:23:00.001-08:00

Crissy and I eating a Chicago dog at Portillo's... we didn't get the deep dish pizza that everyone told me to get. The hot dog was okay. I found out that there's a Portillo's in Buena Park, so I guess it wasn't that authentic.

We stopped at Intelligentsia off of Michigan and some side street that I forgot. The people that worked there were very nice. The atmosphere felt more like a Starbucks. I actually like the atmosphere better at the one in Silver Lake (LA) as it's a little less sterile and more comfortable to hang out at. Cute heart in my macchiato, though.

Not sure what this is called but it's magnificently wonderful for taking pictures. It looks like a liquid-silver-magma-filled-lima bean. So much fun to walk around and see the different reflections of Chicago's skyline.

Here's Crissy, Tommy and I taking pictures in the magic lima bean. It was freezing, literally. On our way home the temperature on a sign I passed read 15 degrees. No joke. I got to wear my cute scarf, though :)

Chicago

2009-02-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

It's 15 degrees!

And I'm loving it. After my workshop this morning (which went well, thanks for praying) Crissy Brooks, Tommy Nixon and I drove in to the city. First stop was the offices of CCDA in the Lawndale Community. It was cool to see where a lot of the stories I've heard took place. Does that sentence make sense? Oh well. From there we took the L downtown and played in the frigid city. We went to that cool park on the lake with that reflective lima bean looking thing off of Michigan Ave. Then we went to Intelligentsia for a cup of coffee. I love hanging out in a big city. I love taking public transportation. The buildlings down here are so different from the buildings in southern california. The homes are tall and thin with ornamental roofs and brick walls. We drove through "the bad parts" which still looked cooler than most of the neighborhoods where I come from. So much character! After our little trip downtown we got some dinner in La Villita (which is the Mexican community) and then got lost for an hour before we found our way back to the hotel in the burbs.

Last night at supper I got to sit with Alexia Salvatierra who is an amazing immigration reform advocate. I attended a workshop by her this morning and was re-inspired to get more involved with that discussion in our city.

I have to present my workshop one more time tomorrow morning. Wish me luck!

Oscars?

2009-02-22T18:56:00.000-08:00

Umm... how about the time the Oscars are super awkward! I haven't watched an award show in forever and I happened to catch part of the Oscars tonight.

Weird.

Fronks

2009-02-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

Real quick... I just ate lunch at Fronk's, a new restaurant on Alondra Blvd, and it was delightful. I had the blackened chicken salad and a cup of chicken noodle soup. The salad was fresh, colorful and full of bright red bell peppers and olives. The blackened chicken was perfect on top.

Check out their website:

http://www.eatatfronks.com/

And better yet, check out their food.

Lake Arrowhead Retreat

2009-02-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

This weekend Rachel V. and I went up to Lake Arrowhead with a Learning Community from UYWI (Urban Youth Workers). The weekend was very refreshing. I enjoyed getting to know some ladies working in similar organizations a little better. It snowed off and on the entire weekend. The beautiful cabin we stayed at was on the lake. Here are some pictures:

Group picture. Yes I'm the only one still in my pajamas.

Donna and I shoveled the driveway on Saturday morning so we could get into town if we needed. Shoveling snow is fun when you've never done it (and probably won't ever have to do it again).

This was the view from our bedroom. Life is tough.

Table Cloth

2009-02-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

I like my table cloth from Indonesia. I got to bust it out for Eric's birthday on Thursday. Perhaps I should have a picture of Eric posted in honor of his birthday but I like my table cloth picture better:
I like my dishes. I think restaurants should allow me to pick their dishes and seating for them. Maybe one day I'll have my own. :)

Consider, please.

2009-02-03T11:01:00.001-08:00

Trying to be excited about Bellflower

2009-02-02T16:47:00.000-08:00

Today I had the highest aspirations to live life to the fullest in Bellflower. What does this mean? This meant waking up early to walk to the new local coffee shop that opened this weekend, a visit to the farmer's market and attending the city planning commission meeting in the evening. Well, I didn't wake us as early as I wanted to and had to drive to the coffee shop which was closed. Strike 1. Then I drove to the farmer's market which was still setting up at 7:30 am. Strike 2. I was bummed.

Luckily I was able to head back to the coffee shop later that morning for a staff meeting. It still looked closed but we knocked on the door and the owner let us in. He explained that they weren't officially opening until next week but he still invited us to stay. We were his first customers. I think this new owner and his fiance have a good approach to running a local business in our city. The coffee was quality and they will be serving pastries from Porto's Bakery. The ambiance was lovely, as well. I can see myself spending time there. So score for Bellflower!

I went back to the farmer's market later that morning and bought some asparagus, strawberries, oranges & mums. Tonight I'm going to the planning commission meeting where they will be discussing plans for a new day spa and a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. I'm feeling like a productive citizen today.

Picture from Indo!

2009-01-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

Pictures!

The easiest way for me to share my Indo pictures was to upload them to facebook into 2 albums. You should be able to click on the 2 links below even if you don't have an account to see the pictures.

Indonesia Pictures AND Losari Coffee Plantation Pictures

Indonesia

2009-01-04T01:49:00.001-08:00

I just had a two and a half hour massage at a beautiful, luxurious spa in Salatiga. Words can't describe the scenery here. I can't wait to upload pictures of all the places I've been. The buildings are beautiful and everything is deep shades of green and chartreuse. The water in Pacitan is bright turquoise and the jungle leads all the way up to the white sand on the beaches. Different color coral washes up on shore with seashells of all different shades and patterns. It's truly breath-taking.

I've been having a blast with Greg & Martha and the kiddos. Last night we laughed so hard my stomach hurt because I couldn't catch my breath. My thoughts are very random right now but I hope to write more about this trip after I return home and have pictures to tell the stories.

Until then...

Tamale Party

2008-12-23T11:23:00.000-08:00

Last week my mom helped my friends and I make our very own tamales. We made beef tamales, chicken/green chile/jack cheese tamales, pineapple tamales and cinnamon tamales. Everyone had to wear an apron. We were so domestic that night.

Tamales are messy. The masa gets in your finger nails and on your clothes, but the end result is worth it. Plus, sometimes it's just fun to get a little messy.

Rachel & Tia as we were setting up the table.

Awesome!

2008-12-15T15:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.presstelegram.com/news/ci_11172859

Christmas Lights are Up

2008-12-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

If you get a chance, drive by at night to see my fantastic Christmas lights. Some weird guy in a sombrero with a gun put them up for me.

Is that a UFO in the sky behind his head?

Won't you be my neighbor?

2008-11-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

There's an adorable, newly remodeled craftsman home for rent across the street from where Heather and I live. Do you know any cool people that are looking to move anytime soon? I want some cool neighbors. Not that my current neighbors aren't cool, but you know.

It's yellow and has hardwood floors and is delightful. 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom for $1800.

You should be my neighbor.

Getty... Late Bloomer

2008-11-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

I pride myself in knowing all the cool places to see in Southern California. How is it that I've never been to the Getty Museum??? Luckily, I was able to visit it yesterday. I was there with a group of women connected to Urban Youth Workers, so I wasn't able to stroll around as much as I would have liked, but here are a few pictures from the day. I plan on going back. Anyone interested?

Troubling... in a good way

2008-11-06T10:01:00.000-08:00

Someone sent this video to me a month ago. As the holidays are getting nearer I'm struggling with how to make little changes in my lifestyle and shopping habits that can make a difference. I'm still not sure what that will look like... I think it will be hard for me. Anywho... check out this video...

Carthage, MO

2008-11-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

My old youth pastor & his wife moved out to Carthage, MO about 10 or 11 years ago. They're place is only an hour away from where Rachel lives, so I spent a day and a night with them last week. Judi really invested a lot of time in me during junior high and high school. Anywho... here are some pictures from their town:

The trees were out of control! So pretty. I forget what Fall looks like.

CCDA Miami

2008-11-04T13:48:00.001-08:00

Two weeks ago we were in Miami for the CCDA Conference. I enjoyed listening to some of my favorite authors and speakers share about God's heart for the poor and our part as the church to love our neighbor. Here are some pictures from Miami...

Jen and I trying to take a picture. This is the best picture out of 3 and it's still blurry. Someone commented on my smile. They said... "What's wrong with your face, Chrissy?" Now I have a complex.

It was Rachel's 30th birthday that week. We went out to a fun Italian restaurant near the convention center. I think we must have been really tired or something because it seemed like everything made us laugh that day. Even stupid things... which is the norm for me, but not for everyone else.

Night shot of Miami skyline on our way to South Beach.

CCDA Conference - John Perkins leading the morning Bible Study.

Update

2008-10-27T14:41:00.000-07:00

I'm currently wearing fuzzy socks and a scarf in the middle of the day. Can life get any better?? I'm spending the day with my old youth pastor and his family is Carthage, MO and it's gorgeous! The leaves are changing colors and it's 50 degrees. I took some pictures of trees on my way here that were flourescent orange and pink... like a highlighter. Beautiful! They gave me a little tour downtown where there are old beautiful buildings with a lot of character. Charming.

Tomorrow I head back to Springfield to spend some quality time with Rachel before she ties the knot with Justin this Saturday. I'm honored to be with her leading up to the wedding. I'll be sure to upload some pictures.

Sunflowers

2008-10-20T18:34:00.001-07:00

How many times have you heard me talk about what I'm going to do with the dirt patch in front of my house? I always make plans and sometimes I even attempt to plant flowers or vegetables, but everything dies.

Well... a month or so ago, my roomie and I tore up the dirt and added some fresh soil. A few days later we noticed a little green sprout coming up out of the dirt. I thought it was a weed, but when I looked closer I saw a split-open sunflower seed attached to the sprout. I didn't plant it, but I watched it grow little by little over the last month. (I didn't even water it!) And now...

Taffy's Birthday Dinner

2008-10-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had a birthday dinner for Taffy in my backyard. We had good food and lots of pretty flowers (ranunculus to be exact) and candles. I like Taffy. When we hang out our maturity level drops a few notches, but we're usually on the same page. Here are some pictures from the night.

Eric brought over the VerWys' bbq and grilled some bomb kabobs. PS... the bbq is still in my backyard :) I don't mind if you guys don't. I needed one anyway.

Keith & Taffy posing pretty.

Taffy's cake is on fire. Dang girl.

Psalm 37

2008-10-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

It's a long Psalm, but it is so good... Psalm 37

1 Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong;
2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.
3 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this:
6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.
9 For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.
10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.
11 But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.
12 The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them;
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.
14 The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose ways are upright.
15 But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.
16 Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked;
17 for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
18 The days of the blameless are known to the LORD, and their inheritance will endure forever.
19 In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.
20 But the wicked will perish: The LORD's enemies will be like the beauty of the fields, they will vanish—vanish like smoke.
21 The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;
22 those the LORD blesses will inherit the land, but those he curses will be cut off.
23 If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.
26 They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.
27 Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever.
28 For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off;
29 the righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
30 The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is just.
31 The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip.
32 The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives;
33 but the LORD will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned when brought to trial.
34 Wait for the LORD and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it.
35 I have seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a green tree in its native soil,
36 but he soon passed away and was no more; though I looked for him, he could not be found.
37 Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But all sinners will be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off.
39 The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
40 The LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.