Check out who got straight A's last quarter
32044996520_b61350be10_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach
35117457694_00591713fd_b
Many gas street lanterns in downtown Charleston
33408156566_8cffdcc8b4_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579763253_b39ff8af95_b
After leaving FLA, Lori and I stopped for dinner and I shot this evening sky before walking into the restaurant
43884907264_5fd09b3798_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33288325441_489864ea38_b
Family dinner with bonus of my parents and brother
39465015314_d612ec3626_b
Kids after dinner
45282742064_52d355237a_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Good night, Florida
33376326818_020067d09b_b
Not bad for an iPhone Night Mode shot of the Jupiter/Saturn Christmas Star
50745657216_21b63b3217_b
Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
Welcome to my weekend—video services for Women’s Ministries Annual Retreat #DareToShare2020
49470292368_a2a19556e4_b
Big flock of gobblers in my neighborhood
33189334152_772ef778f7_b
A little sightseeing after the show, trying out iPhone 11 Pro night mode in the Germany pavilion
49327981547_bfe081cfbd_b
I love relaxing piano “muisc” in the morning
42035754842_12ba5d2313_b
iPad on a monopod—that's a new one for me
36616158650_0e3a107f8f_b
Day 7
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber closet
None of the clothes displayed here were actually George's, but they are representative of the style of the day. Custom dictacted varying types of attire for different events, so George would often change clothes four to six times per day—a busy prospect for his valet. In George's time, it is generally understood this space was only used for hats and other accessories, with clothing stored elsewhere.
Church member was showing off his funky socks
49645275826_feb81f29cb_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Misc. other photos from the week—puppet ministry
49580501917_825750be34_b
Coming in for a landing
31169775876_b9423868fb_b
My home from age 2 through adulthood, and my dad's old Chevelle
29542015955_aa654d945f_b
LOTS of awesome BOGOs at Publix right now—love it!
43134207832_497b3497b9_b
Old well found during property renovation
33064686460_c27e41df8f_b
I'm a material witness to this "materiel" typo (seen on an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation)
35601559593_538a668e81_b
Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
…and now for the reveal
33689496062_2f893d4341_b
Can we talk for just a second about how ecstatic I am for this Christmas gift?
My former vacuum cleaner was 20+ years old!
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 4
35980996526_17675fb27c_b
My parents joined Lori and me for the trip
39448662245_7f7cf87a2b_b
Biltmore mansion rotisserie kitchen
A separate kitchen for roasted meat (venison, wild boar, and other game) was used to keep the smoke and grease out of the other kitchens.
Views of Biltmore Gardens
48721404458_68830d0ef2_b
CN Tower
There aren't many outdoor locations in downtown Toronto where the CN Tower doesn't make its presence known.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579246508_ff6fdc03d6_b
I had set a goal of meeting my 500-calorie goal for 365 consecutive days—blew past it and hit 400 days yesterday, so I’m REALLY ready for a break!
40005482515_f1221f5127_b
Charleston architecture
33292675082_66d3e7c2cb_b
Happiness is a freshly washed car
25342025577_77905abaaf_b
Good night, Florida
48724547432_4be9854e26_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579277173_c5764f8d2f_b
Saturday, July 8—Parade of Nations
The much-awaited "Parade of Nations"—complete with national flags, video commentary, and music—concluded the Adventist World Session in Toronto. The colorful spectacle highlighted the 205 countries in which Seventh-day Adventists operate, celebrating achievements and recognizing challenges.
The applause and cheers for the different countries indicated a wide range of nationalities attending the Session, with the loudest being for Jamaica, the U.S., and the host country Canada.
The ceremony is illustrative of the multi-national nature of the Church who are united in a faith that transcends national boundaries and cultures.
Mary Poppins also made an appearance
49327973487_e51e9fffce_b
Chaperone meeting
49327762566_7a595575fd_b
Biltmore mansion pre-tour
The sky was a bit wet and dreary when we arrived. I shot these exterior photos before the mansion tour, unsure that I would have another chance with sunnier skies after the tour.
Musicians for second song performance, "Healing Tower"
Terry Sampson, drums; and Kevin Sorensen, bass. Not pictured: Jason Salagubang, keyboard.
Ark Encounter
Scale model.
Finally reorganized the shelves for large-size paper stock to something a bit more logical and even created room to get yet-to-be-opened cases off the floor
30791302718_b6330445b8_b
Rehearsal day at the Barnett ranch in Sweetwater, TN, for the Hunt's 50th anniversary party and vow renewal ceremony
48721398473_f1d28a8f77_b
Cooking pancakes and veggie sausage patties
39448657235_7d81b1189a_b
Ark Encounter
Inside looking at the bow.
When designing gas pumps, who decided, more often than not, that the hose has to hang in front of the part a customer uses the most?
48518925131_f4d356ffe8_b
Looks like my home has a guardian—guess it’s a good thing I don’t really tune in the satellite channels all that much any more
40018522992_8636d6800c_b
The energy of birthday sugar rushes cannot be clearly captured on camera
38171046902_c197fa65b7_b
It's been a very busy day
1,000 copies each of 10 Spanish-language Bible lessons, double-sided and folded in half, for a total of 20,000 impressions on 10,000 sheets of paper. WHEW!
Fortunately, these will last the evangelist a LONG time before I ever have to print more.
Oh, and for anyone who follows me on social media, lesson 2 of this batch is the one I was talking about a while ago that had two erroneous booger elements colored blue and causing the entire inside spread to want to copy in color instead of only B&W!
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
48721913247_46cc4c8ee8_b
Good morning, Florida
32383151270_d237c32e82_b
Biltmore mansion servant dining room
Between 30-35 servants ate three meals per day in this room.
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
40300603742_6871ce829c_b
A few days later, returning to Epcot for a full day of fun
49327757346_0f6a27552a_b
We successfully escaped Moriarty’s Game Room—SO MUCH FUN
45238326625_7c6b8b50eb_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416680425_be9ed1e094_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Revealing my creative wife’s transformation for the front room of the house
This is a 10-second iPhone Night Mode exposure of an otherwise very dimly lit room—basically just the string of lights framing the center window.
This is my scene for the day—production for agapeconference.org (hopefully emcee Darren is cool with the photo swipe!)
50229256247_41c357f0af_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580226481_9049244fab_b
Joe Kilsheimer, Mayor, City of Apopka
38406239832_257bdc1cc4_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416680305_70ab9c8ffb_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
33897764065_09b4e1d588_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Ironwork by renowned blacksmith Philip Simmons
33448542885_4d530386ae_b
LEGO challenge—build something you think is at least 100 years old
50202731308_139e8c00ee_b
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
A seven-story high ceiling and Flemish tapestries from the 1500s was the scene of dinner parties and celebrations such as the annual Christmas party for Biltmore workers and their families.
Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for large animals.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580490952_913918beb6_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579707423_778b292637_b
Biltmore mansion bowling alley
Automatic pinsetters didn't yet exist, so servants would set up the pins by hand and roll the balls back down the alley to the players.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859791_44b4da8c61_b
Taking flight
30384349584_f40a967f7e_b
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859751_80159665ce_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007687_8747094e16_b
Ark Encounter
Three types of lighting.
Door cam belonging to a neighbor not far from my house caught an image of this guy about the same time I was walking out the house to the car to go to work this morning! 😱
45370814554_26cd49db88_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Lori making progress
Awww, my parents drove over from Tampa to join us for supper last night
31056992835_14be751e15_b
Nominating committee
The Nominating Committee room is, of course, closed to spectators. Our photographers, however, were allowed capture images of the scene. Committee members nominate and elect Church leaders, making use of electronic equipment to tabulate votes.
Photo by my friend and colleague, Ron Quick, formerly Carolina Conference communication director. Photos were generally strictly prohibited in this room. Ron was granted a moment to capture this view when sensitive information was not being shown or discussed.
View of downtown Orlando
30398465333_6733b07e83_b
Without the Mac Pro sucking power, my UPS should provide LOTS of iPhone and iPad recharge cycles if we lose power
36959786566_65346cc67b_b
1850s-1870s sugar mill ruins
Description in photo two prior.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580282856_c8f34104e7_b
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
30076273305_da3dd4d9b1_b
The "cake" was a creatively decorated cardboard stand for holding cupcakes
29665679587_c64482e094_b
Parent orientation for our new high school freshman—wait, what? We have a freshman‽
36275359801_793fdc6b43_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Old Methuselah
This cypress tree, which is more than 500 years old, got its name in the 1950s when the park was the Ponce de Leon Springs tourist attraction. The tree somehow survived in the early 1800s when cypress trees throughout Florida were cut for lumber.
I was quite clear this morning that today was going to be a really long day—good night!
49670976448_8ca4c49bf1_n
Final sightseeing before landing
31062168792_acc9206a3b_b
Moving day
I have officially transferred to a new department now that Communication has been deprecated. I'll tell more in a blog post next week. For now, I'm sharing a farewell image of my previous office and a glimpse at the early stages of setting up my new workspace.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749296_0fbfe48ac7_b
I and my cacophony of neighbors are pleased to announce calendar 2020 has officially been blown to bits—thus begins the countdown to January 20 when we can truly celebrate 2021
50785884241_6839b91348_b
Possibly the most creative thing I've ever seen done with a fork
32309073011_b9e3b5abf2_b
Biltmore mansion second floor living hall
The two large pantings on the far wall are of architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The left wall features a painting of the Cecil family, descendants of George Vanderbilt.
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580263826_f396a192d9_b
Playing with night mode—China pavilion
49327968862_4ef9c5e824_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859681_c052439863_b
Bulk paper cutter hilarity
Sometimes, my job amuses me.
If I fits, I sits
39613885705_1ace6a2124_b
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
49328167992_1d13f0ec39_b
Say whaaaaaat‽
35263175892_7106d43c66_b
Slave Mart Museum
No photos allowed inside
Celebrating my mother-in-law’s birthday WHOOOOO happens to love owls—what a hoot!
50525199996_30af9f7e5b_b
Good night, Mickey Mouse
29492207443_f12460c16d_b
Mowing the lawn
Clearly I was older than two at this point since it's the back yard of the house we moved into. Ain't it awesome how no one in the early 1970s thought it was a problem to let a kid stand behind a running mower with no shoes or shirt?
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Good night, Florida
33443018870_4854df89e8_b
Local public elementary school teachers did a drive-by parade through neighboring communities for their students staying at home
49697069643_45d6100a7a_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
33856907776_7b2f08bfae_b
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
48721908442_3901631cba_b
Good night, Florida
31713553190_187d073732_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
31062173972_116d764111_b
Any collectors looking for an antique (likely nonfunctional) Brownie?
31179540033_5ba3b170e8_b
Love the old camera display
31759763576_717c23d75c_b
Biltmore mansion organ blower
Near the kitchen is a small room housing this motor which powers the fan that provides are to the large organ above in the dining hall (photos earlier in this album).
My wife is part of the choir during two services today at Florida Hospital Church—live stream beginning at 9:30am. http://hospitalchurch.org/sermons/watch-live/
36738507343_b6c2c0a158_b
Does a flock of turkeys in my back yard mean Thanksgiving comes early this year?
44823843581_0de3b8e8ae_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245978_eea53f8591_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33376286856_66f6cde7d8_b
GCTV production
49580285301_6a2272fce4_b
Release of white doves
37722926274_55d181be32_b
It's been a good little car for 13 years, but its era has reached an end—final resting place before scrap
29301050094_08b6300cbb_b
Z88.3 radio has a splendid beginner geocache perfect for introducing someone new to the game—the cache code to search is GC7TGTE
32765137667_c202c9c153_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
30838270470_4862f98cf6_b
Ark Encounter
Retrieving the dove with an olive branch.
And we're off!
30398516503_fea49a91df_b
Sun, moon, and stars (okay, sun, moon, and planet, but somehow that doesn't sound as inspirational!)
35888485081_dac92b579e_b
A beautiful day in the neighborhood
49575818801_578754f369_b
Lars Houmann, COO of Adventist Health System
26661367979_1fb6eeea11_b
Biltmore mansion main kitchen
Biltmore's chef led a team of more than a dozen kitchen workers. The copper pots are original to the house.
Good night, Florida
50059628518_41e7cf0c2f_b
Back yard bear sighting at my sister-in-law’s home
37017711430_1786c9de3c_b
Impressive thunderhead building over Orlando
50027628741_c9b50c3fbb_b
The cotton candy station was extremely popular
43884907444_99906889dd_b
Good night, Florida
34653052504_c06c243276_b
Had a great day with Lori and my parents at Strawberry Festival in Plant City—caught a tiny glimpse of Bobby Bones and the Raging Idiots performing
49607146721_bf59296cd3_b
Current status
35123026474_6de1b1f4ea_b
Misc. other photos from the week—South Hall entrance
49579780153_ccb3f6f71b_b
HMCS Toronto in port, seen from CN Tower
49580442467_b0562c8db6_b
Biltmore mansion official photo stop—garden version
48721893117_747813934c_b
The ambiance inside the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
39448661535_01278f4082_b
Fire!
46758416224_f84892ff83_c
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580207451_59c7963c6b_b
Wekiva River at Wilson’s Landing Park
28410873239_d0ed940888_b
Good night, Florida
50772761757_015d920722_b
From any angle
Numerous cameras scattered throughout the SkyDome brought pictures from all angles to viewers tuning in to the Session via satellite on the Adventist Communication Network. In the SkyDome, nearly 60,000 delegates, guests, and visitors watched the proceedings on the 100' x 45' JumboTron video display screen above the stage.
Biltmore mansion Halloween room
Originally used for storage, the walls were painted over the course of several weeks by the Cecils, joined by family and friends, with this unusal theme for a New Year's Eve party in 1925—the year after George's daughter, Cornelia, married John Cecil, a British diplomat.
Good night, Florida—and good riddance, Dorian
48680209181_b7b2b3ff60_b
Playing with night mode—UK pavilion
49327980567_4148fdd276_b
CN Tower glass floor
…an attraction that is not for the faint of heart.
Good night, Florida
50502836293_2bb3bae100_b
Ark Encounter
This True History of the World board was a fascinating display. I kind of wish I had a print of it, which were available for sale, but I wasn't prepared to spend the money.
’Tis the season for the army of backwards apostrophes
31067788825_8218a456c6_b
Arriving at Ark Encounter
After lunch in Lexington, it was just a 40-50-minute drive to the attraction. (Yes, it was an extremely windy day!)
Family and guests visiting at the barn venue during rehearsal the day before the event
48721908932_d7f58c5b17_b
Crane kick pose
32311555815_d77ce81b60_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
31062198022_bb4ca08749_b
First time encounter with this flavor—my new Favorite Thing™ of the moment
50755937983_0ae42a925c_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859851_bff998f679_b
Subterfuge remote control
One of the amusements at Disney Springs is the Strolling Piano—a pianist/singer who sits at her piano on a roving platform. Another employee controls its movement, and I found him—with a sneaky RC device disguised as a Super Big Gulp-type cup!
Good night, Florida
39077860181_87873a74a3_b
…which is paved with discarded ballast stones from ships
32605567564_b49bdfd07d_b
Made-from-scratch banana bread fresh out of the oven
50776825688_96fb6dc3b6_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750068_1c2d55c372_b
Ominous weather bearing down on Central Florida
48268589287_4bc5c02d50_b
Biltmore mansion detail
48721403678_030818df76_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579358018_5ef16bf852_b
Biltmore mansion pastry kitchen
The chef used this kitchen to make elaborate desserts, protected from the heat of the other two kitchens.
Biltmore mansion dressing room
Plenty of space for changing into bathing costumes, adjacent to the indoor pool.
Happy kids wrapping up a fun afternoon at the beach
31934549870_113d4e0ce1_b
Biltmore Gardens Railway
Model train passing in front of the mansion scale model.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
32573783644_7ffd6d9dfe_b
GCTV production
49580513127_e35c5e0a0a_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Nathan and Tammy making progress.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749146_fce14024a5_b
Florida afternoon skies
50126706528_abb4485eb9_b
Ark Encounter
Dining area.
We nearly didn’t go to Epcot today—torrential rain around 8:30am that cleared up very quickly
45068512085_4fd3d08514_b
I Voted! (local elections—sadly not yet time to vote out DeathSantis)
50185625041_b7d2919f2c_b
St. Philip's Church
33319857081_f5de9f4c48_b
Daryl Tol, President/CEO of Florida Hospital and Adventist Health System Central Division
38437436501_85d27bc0f4_b
Sorting games at work
I have already stated that my new job is fun. I’m not saying it’s glamorous!
Shelf cloud
35850680923_baec4f5405_b
Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
My relocated workspace
It’s been a few months since I posted a photo of my workspace at the time of my relocation from Communication to the Service Center which showed my desk in a still-being-set-up state. Last week I finally finished making the new location my own space by getting my framed art and diploma on the surrounding walls (thanks for the help, Miguel).
Pouring pancake batter onto the in-table griddle
39448648585_168d1589e5_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580491027_770dbbf9eb_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580086122_4d75b3c2b5_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580085972_a34e416898_b
Good night, Florida
34850256583_301420391d_b
Spectacular double rainbow over my home ahead of Hurricane Irma
I'm choosing to interpret this as God's way of telling me we're going to be okay through the storm.
Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
Lori captured Lisa, Danny, Meg, and me on the the Dollywood Mystery Mine ride
Y’all, my egg-peeling game is getting strong (and they were perfectly cooked, too)
50588888206_7373115672_b
Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
First time joining Lisa and Danny at the AHA Heart Walk
38443732926_23a58bc394_b
Prepping for performance
39154744972_2e144562b0_b
Final sightseeing before landing
31062167262_5380601bfa_b
Hippo Tours—among the more unique forms of Toronto transportation
While certainly not one of the forms of transportation delegates used to and from the Session, some attendees chose to enjoy a unique trip on this amphibious vehicle.
Sightseers
30384345464_827baed298_b
Florida spring afternoon
32856088783_d3a4c51c92_b
Ark Encounter official photo stop—evening lit-up version
48721868457_d11c47ed8d_b
Scenic moment at Church at the Cross
38207422615_cd8268fefc_b
Lori and Meg in the Candlelight Processional performance
Photo by Jeff Krause.
North Hall seen from CN Tower
The North Hall was primarily used as a mass cafeteria during the Session.
Family in the Biltmore Gardens greenhouses
It was wonderful that my parents could join us for this portion of our trip.
Ark Encounter
As we were leaving, the girls pointed out that throughout the museum, there were marks in the floor as if they had been scratched by animal claws. Fascinating detail!
VIP grand opening of the new Florida Hospital Apopka
37707321804_8bf0a5d5e8_b
Charleston alley
32605086114_c796eaffd1_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Silly nephew thinks he needs my glasses
27873964317_765bc82282_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580207496_0295b038da_b
Recovery room
Photo by Lori Bennett
Final sightseeing before landing
30838263990_5259888b27_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749166_6484da260a_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Mary Poppins also made an appearance
49327273628_7734c76cba_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579721281_c43bc9bf4b_b
Pediatric section
Photo by Lori Bennett
Family at the top
31169768756_bf2de4f8cb_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580086387_10321ae01a_b
Toy Story came out 21 years ago, and Buzz & Woody are *still* in danger of getting left behind!
30494807710_a5ec1d5c60_b
Anyone have a clue what H-E-double hockey sticks this thing is?
31159264753_65b8081508_b
Ark Encounter
Ventilation.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 6
36021353446_3a2f40c67b_b
Good night, Florida
44792862041_0ba5988595_b
Ark Encounter
Kitchen.
There comes a point when quantity completely obliterates quality
30744337066_9335e9e872_b
Biltmore Gardens Railway
Part of the railway miniature ran past an amazing scale model of the mansion.
Good night, Florida
49503466286_d15b32c836_b
Wednesday, July 5—The first military chaplain
A representative from Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries dressed in-character as Cornelius the Centurion, the first military chaplain in the Bible (Acts 10).
Charleston architecture
33448503645_63a70fbdf0_b
Sears in Altamonte Mall is shutting down—more than half the upper floor is bare and looks creepy
44652370302_06c94d5b55_b
Biltmore mansion official photo stop
48721893147_3e3d69d69d_b
Charleston architecture
32634430683_494926c1ab_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 3
35830488752_1f37420709_b
Video of my first experience with basketweaving
33288553031_18b344ab59_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 2
35937883166_7a311bd9ee_b
Sampling a few of Biltmore's wines
We ended up purchasing a bottle of dry rosé and Century™ Sweet Red which tastes amazing
Good night, Florida
50433481887_bc129d198e_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749396_986516d809_b
Christmas at Epcot
45256262324_10533feea8_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 5
36042852945_a67fab2fd6_b
Entrance to Biltmore Winery
48721400528_37194e370b_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416564665_101064e226_b
Sun not visible, skies are dark—why travel to Tennessee? There's a total eclipse happening right here in Florida!
35882675694_ec0e5d89ea_b
Prepping my iced tea, I asked Meg to "hand me some yellow stuff" and this is what she gave me
36219837481_db3f67d732_b
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
49327275178_0ab09cd67b_b
Headed back down
30384310544_b95598ddae_b
First time geocaching for my nephews
46753926682_89a8290afc_b
I learned today is International Wear Your Summer Camp T-shirt Day—my childhood camper shirts are long gone, as is my 1989 staff shirt, but I do have this seven-year-old 60th anniversary polo
Now, can someone please explain why a day celebrating summer camp is held in November?
Mass cafeteria
Metro Toronto Convention Centre Catering gave advance estimates that they would serve more than 400,000 vegetarian meals during the ten days of the Session in this 7,000-seat, 200,000-square-foot dining area in the North Building. They used 112 special cafeteria "speed lines" to expedite service.
More celebratory banners
29665679707_e1b36c3c9d_b
Biltmore mansion entrance hall
48721913497_87a24aaf7c_b
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 2.
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
29781561430_2cfbc10d72_b
Day 2
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Centennial banners greeted incoming visitors
29665679897_aa9e24ac3a_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579357748_dc5721c130_b
It was a nice couple of hours at the beach, but then the clouds rolled in
36521558481_860769958a_b
Someone chose not to ride
This was hilarious. Adri not only had little interest in riding the more extreme Dollywood coasters, she totally owned her lack of desire. Aunt Lisa and Uncle Danny bought these shirts for the girls. Yes, Adri happily wears her "chicken" shirt.
Obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
49327977847_68b3b0d646_b
The neighborhood park lost an enormous tree #HurricaneIrma
36775969120_80d44ede8b_b
Vacation Cross Connection
In planning our June 2019 vacation, it was fascinating to realize all our destinations collectively formed the shape of a cross.
At my dad's parents' house in North Carolina
29542269515_0e9167af60_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859931_4d144f496f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580453337_cabe82a329_b
My young nephews wanted to try coffee for the first time
Worth while to note that Lisa's drink was flavored and sweet. Danny's, on the other hand, was typical coffee flavor.
Celebrating 10 years
50207576263_62f1a276b7_b
Never knew Uno made a version with these huge cards!
41822151155_2929b61a36_b
It's *only* $500! Can't I have one?
31495309624_a2195d1766_b
Wow—my Nissan Versa’s average MPG has passed the 40 mark (it’s rated 39 highway)
42242819872_02d31409bc_b
As evidenced by a little extra sun today, I'm definitely a watch-wearer once again—thanks, Apple
29931841645_3a792341db_b
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
29449096633_5072ea4629_b
I readily admit this isn’t really what the sunset skies looked like; somewhat underwhelming, so I had some fun with the InstaFlash app
50045800612_564d622fdf_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579277328_7ab17c8d9b_b
Good night, Florida
33655619008_9cd8b1e685_b
"The Audience"
Session attendees who reach the SkyDome by crossing the bridge from Front Street can't help but notice this large, metallic-painted sculpture on the side of the SkyDome. This sculpture, and its second part on another part of the building, titled "The Audience" by Michael Snow, depicts various types of baseball fans such as "V for Victory," "Pointer," "Man and Boy," "Camera Man," "Clapper," "Binoculars," and more.
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Tiffani Casey, soloist for Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy, performing "Together"
26661374069_1c2737411d_b
Good night, Florida
32391195074_2d484926f3_b
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
29992770441_0af274d2c5_b
Beautiful day for an outdoor lunch
23844046478_4f752bfb86_b
Rainbow Row
33408122906_195298367c_b
Ark Encounter
Japheth and Rayneh.
Good morning, Florida—time to get back to work
48682498743_fa9818e2c3_b
Seeing these on Wawa gas pumps makes me very happy
32810994745_54ebda935a_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580263546_dc66d5abe3_c
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007932_54ce0e96d8_b
Congrats to my nephew, Riley Alexander Bennett, on his high school graduation!
49960377181_3649f01a45_b
Lunch with the family
34721999893_589a7ba68b_b
This is the Strolling Piano I mentioned yesterday with a photo of the guy I found using the disguised remote controller
32237009601_5c3d6afe2f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580477957_7368333e1a_b
Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
South Hall seen from CN Tower
The South Hall, entirely underground, was the location of the Adventist Book Center and the exhibit hall.
So, a funny thing just happened…
33001026824_b73c5d6469_b
After 15 years, it is finally time to bid this workhorse behemoth Cinema HD Display—which only recently has begun to exhibit signs of failure—a fond farewell
48644785247_27bbedd456_b
The ancient Apple Cinema HD Display has been replaced by a Dell UltraSharp U2415 LED monitor—half as thick, much tinier bezel, and, at long last, adjustable height!
48644670666_db22703144_b
Good night, Florida
29695142631_c70792405e_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Video clip of the closing portion of "Together"
37722985894_c42f6e257b_b
Sugar Mill Machinery
Description in prior photo.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580491172_a027546b37_b
More night mode experimentation—character greet facility at Norway pavilion
49327282143_d1550285d6_b
Deviled eggs redux—mixed in a little salt as I should have done the first time, and had access to smoked paprika; YUMMO
50710818026_d6e713c5be_b
Smyrna sky 360
35274326943_1ae322520b_b
Biltmore mansion smoking room
48721401373_c2b990dda0_b
Y’all are just a bunch of turkeys!
48090013612_8d80b4e675_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580207521_07e10a9fe7_b
I know—I put up a B&W version for the 7-day project, but I wanted to post the color version as well
38177072761_43a0a66c6e_b
We found a Fazoli's!
After our Biltmore trip, we headed to Lexington, KY, intending to reach our hotel before terribly late. Unfortunately a nasty storm slowed us down, even pulling off on an exit for a while, and we arrived in the early morning hours the next day. We had a much-needed sleep-in, and then had lunch at a nearby Fazoli's—a rare treat for us ever since the chain pulled out of Florida except for one store in Pensacola. My meal was essentially free due to a promotion they were running on the overhauled chicken parmesan entree where I just completed a short survey about it.
Hunted a simple geocache—first one I've looked for in a great many years
Crab Cakes
www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC3M3HY
The beach is devouring Mason
35836733251_b43d4b0606_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579721431_499bba5b66_b
Biltmore Gardens Railway
There were several different separate railways throughout the greenhouses.
Fun with light refraction
49659314932_489771b60f_b
Biltmore mansion canning pantry
48721402423_fae45cca74_b
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
48721403053_fc26cb4a62_b
Biltmore mansion servant bedroom
Most uncommonly for the period, Biltmore servants had a comfortably furnished, heated, private room. Most servants were allowed two hours off daily, but were still on call. They received one afternoon and one evening off per week as well as a half day every other Sunday.
The original sugar mill wheel
In the photo: Local residents pose at the mill wheel in the late 1800s. The building is no longer standing.
This artifact is all that remains of the original sugar mill wheel. The sugar mill was constructed in the 1830s and operated until 1864, when the property was Spring Garden Plantation. The wheel powered the machinery that pressed sugar cane for its juice. It was the only water-powered sugar mill in Florida!
In 1835, the mill was destroyed by Seminole Indians at the beginning of the Second Seminole War. In 1864, it was destroyed again, this time by Union troops during the Civil War because the owner, Thomas Starke, was supplying food to Confederate troops.
The abandoned mill deteriorated from insects and rot in the late 1800s. Around 1910 it was rebuilt, possibly as a tourist attraction. A project in 1998 removed this part of the wheel, replacing it with the current wheel, which is not operational.
My very yummy dinner at San Miguel Mexican Grill in Apopka
29665678487_6eab650e34_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579860541_18191dfbda_b
Biltmore mansion kitchen storage
48721912542_7c8dc67755_b
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
It was the briefest of glimpses, but I caught a tiny peek of the supermoon this morning
30965202866_f3300e1128_b
I lost horribly in my first time playing Ticket to Ride
I was the yellow pieces. First, I missed 20 points coz stinker Mason (blue) blocked my only chance to reach Calgary from Phoenix. Then I missed another 35 points because the game ended *one* round before I would have completed the final leg of my route from LA to Miami.
As such, six-year-old Maddox (red) managed to completely cream me into a distant last place.
Grandmas who love their grandkids take time to be shown things on their iPhones
29906875365_8e281ea9c0_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
36088186675_dc8d20a5cf_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579860481_caebbbac20_b
GCTV production
An extraordinary sense of humor and irony is sometimes what makes the difference between a good video editor and a great video editor.
SPECIES:
Television Editor, Editorus Fatigus
Nocturnal & Diurnal
HABITAT:
Often found in dark, damp cubicles, occasionally passed out under the desk.
PRIMARY DIET:
Little Debbie's Snack Cakes.
Biltmore mansion pre-tour
The sky was a bit wet and dreary when we arrived. I shot these exterior photos before the mansion tour, unsure that I would have another chance with sunnier skies after the tour.
Seeking a gadget bag to hold my iPad Air 2 plus these items
I'll happily accept advice on a gadget bag that will suit my needs and not break my wallet. I've seen some Tom Bihn bags that I LOVE, but I can't justify the price. Looking for alternatives.
All the items in this photo (plus my iPad) fit in my current bag, but it's crammed full with no organization.
Some comments on the contents: Yes, my rarely used checks are in a Vera Bradley cover. My old vinyl cover wore out and my wife put them in this case, and I've never had an excuse to change it. And yes, I do carry a SIM tray opener tool from a long-ago iPhone model since Apple doesn't bundle them any more. Two sets of earbuds? Yep, one with the 3.5mm jack and one with the Lightning jack for my iPhone 7. Yes, I'm redundant enough to carry the 3.5mm earbuds plus the 3.5mm to Lightning adapter. And yes, I still carry a Lightning adapter for old 30-pin Dock accessories. Why carry the bulky add-on cable for the charger brick? It actually has less to do with grounding and more to do with lengthening the charge cable as I often need to do. Last comment is to identify the gray square at the bottom as a little pouch holding multicolor sticky note pads.
I have spoken!
50432615658_6d7159ca60_b
Good morning, Florida (bonus points if you can find Venus in this photo)
32710331868_0e06b2036d_b
Enjoyed assisting a family photo shoot today with this beautiful 1949 Cadillac convertible as a prop
50155284753_9c8ef82619_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580263811_7909087e4e_b
Ark Encounter
Deck floor plans.
A mural in one of the subway stops
49579731753_28bd203f37_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580431882_de528fc8d6_b
Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for small animals.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Threading the sweetgrass weave one loop at a time.
Ark Encounter
Welcome.
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
30384347184_5913cfcddf_b
Parting singer group shot
49327757571_9a1b72328c_b
Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
With some help from iPhone 11 Pro Night Mode and a trip through PS Express, I managed to capture this image of the C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE) comet ☄️
50135911047_5648ae6eb0_b
Biltmore mansion walk-in refrigerator
Several rooms used early forms of mechanical refrigeration instead of iceboxes or springhouses.
Obligatory departing SSE shot
45931253642_a52b51d93b_b
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
30042191286_6248ddc2b2_b
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
I shot a panorama to show a full floor-to-ceiling view, but exposure often ends up yucky in panorama shots.
Good morning, Florida (iPhone 7 HDR photo—absolutely no adjustments or filters)
30557762245_37820866a8_b
Just three minutes to cook a Blaze Pizza
32217495141_640e7acd05_b
Ironwork by renowned blacksmith Philip Simmons
33292889202_90c3d391ce_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579860266_952e4c8fec_b
Dad picked me up from college today and handed me breakfast
48750808496_5b99076369_b
Charleston Harbor where slave ships landed
32634453593_e0678ddd66_b
Luggage is Tetris'd into the van and we're ready to go
35106257834_0d3657a99b_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749631_415fcbb732_b
I know you guys think this is funny—looking like a turban—but would you please let me have the rest of the blanket?
34648774242_b9d3a17e53_b
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245548_6e46c70a44_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579356848_95eac6dde0_b
Charleston architecture
33320002521_a5ac17cbe8_b
Good night, Florida
50059628498_8119ca4035_b
Good night, Florida
25471256248_1419529de5_b
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities drying room
Some of the damp laundry was dried indoors draped over rolling racks warmed by heating elements.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Threading the sweetgrass weave one loop at a time.
Lavender in Biltmore Gardens
48721404818_ed4f4f6d2f_b
Ark Encounter
Food supplies.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007472_ea9bb48fe8_b
Who Built the Sugar Mill?
The rubble in the next two photos is the sugar train, which was used to boil cane juice to produce sugar. Enslaved Africans constructed the bottom 5-6 rows of bricks in the 1850s. The ruins in the following two photos is all that remains of their work here when the area was Spring Garden Plantation from the early 1800s until the Civil War. Slave labor also constructed the original sugar mill building in the 1830s (rebuilt around 1900), as well as docks and storage buildings.
The top section of bricks was added in the 1870s. In 2011, park staff performed stabilization work, adding missing bricks and mortaring the joints to preserve this important part of the park's history.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
48721401923_edba3463ac_b
Oh the long list of stores I could name that need a spot like this
31148563714_46062ee0cc_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750391_5f6257cb64_b
Downtown Toronto seen from CN Tower
Probably the best vantage point of downtown Toronto you'll find.
Shelf cloud
36490753972_9264e44b50_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579357958_57877a77bf_b
Finally enjoying a taste of the Christmas gift from my bro- and sis-in-law; wow, this stuff tastes wonderful!
49334710988_0b6cd90ab9_b
Absolutely no idea where this was
29542016215_e15cc8b350_b
Figment went upside down (the only night mode shot on the moving ride that turned out well)
49327760976_296d451a1e_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Departing the boarding area
30384348444_4a9ac093cc_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Meg and Adri really got into the craft.
Reaching the first drop of Dollywood's Wild Eagle coaster
I'm unsure whether we are on the ride vehicle in this particular shot. In any case, this was an amazing coaster. Smooth and fun. There was surprisingly not a long ride, so after the four of us completed one pass, we looped around and got right back on again for a second ride. Lisa and I sat in the front, and we agreed—Best. Coaster. Ever!
2002 Chevrolet Silverado
Technically, this truck was never mine—rather, it was a two-time loaner from my father-in-law. I'm including it in this album because the title was actually in my name for a short period of time.
It had been in storage for more than a year. It never did drive quite right, but it got me to work and back for several weeks in September and October 2016 after the Vibe died for the second time (permanently) until I purchased a Town & Country minivan for my wife, and I took over the Accord.
Then, when the Accord died in February 2017, I had to use this truck again while I sought a permanent vehicle for myself. I ultimately bought a new Versa (later in this album) in April 2017, and my father-in-law finally sold the Silverado to one of his neighbors.
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
I clearly don’t live in a bear-free community, as evidenced by this guy hanging out in a retention ditch near my home
42009403565_dc769b8e37_b
The gang's all ready
49327949536_2428896f2e_b
My wife, her sister, and their mother took a trip to Texas, so we guys got together for Saturday lunch
50433481917_7317e1d57e_b
Based on available information, let's take a guess what time Lee will get away for lunch
28356801409_8e9f8b2b47_b
Sunday, July 2—Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750501_0e21052ea4_b
I usually forget to use portrait mode, but I remembered this time
49327280413_1ff264f900_b
Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
48721730341_7141622fdd_b
Ark Encounter official photo stop—ramp to door version
48721734046_05555e1068_b
Adri being silly in 2015 to demonstrate new iPhone Live Photos
50137232277_ff1f27fcbc_b
You might think the packets in this themed container are mustard, but you’d be wrong #Hellmans #Mayo #Mayonnaise #fail
42506763935_25970b730c_b
Slave Mart Museum
No photos allowed inside.
Biltmore mansion photo op
A spot in the Halloween room has cutouts of George and Edith from a popular photo of them on the main floor loggia.
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
George's grand walnut bed.
Biltmore mansion kitchen pantry
Both electric and manual dumbwaiters raised trays of food to the butler's pantry and floors above.
Masked friends
50433480827_192e8533dd_b
It's install day for our new production copier with an awesome new booklet finisher
50432617863_5161bb5da0_b
Biltmore mansion music room
Poor exposure in this dark room, but it shows the Meissen porcelain figures of the 12 Apostles from the 1730s-1740s, created by Johann Joachim Kändler. And to the left of the figures is the "Triumphal Arch of Maximilian," an 18th-century woodcut print Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519) commissioned from Albrecht Dürer and others about 1515.
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant seen from across Ponce de Leon Springs
39448655585_6b1a09ea66_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33288316611_00a64abe86_b
Good night, Florida
29280488013_3a7c1cc8c3_b
Lori and Lisa's kids are dreaming of a white Christmas
31456128070_8c2f33ff17_b
I’m only mixing for rehearsals and not the actual performances, but it was fun to get back into this seat after such a long time
42133737622_beb0d92b22_b
The kids—silliest
45957330702_17293846c7_b
Good night, Florida
50835712678_2da898d823_b
Tim Cook, Senior Vice President of Florida Hospital Apopka
38406238972_a13ecdc67f_b
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Biltmore mansion breakfast room
Grainy and poorly exposed, my panorama shot of this dark room gives a glimpse of the elaborately decorative ceiling.
I think this may have been at my dad's parents' house in North Carolina
29542015535_f4dfe740d4_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580435737_9116a138fd_b
This photo doesn't even start to properly depict the deep blue of this evening
50433311356_86b2ed2419_b
Blue tungsten carbide
Don't worry, it's not a replacement. I still have my original. But, with my wife's blessing, I now have a colorful alternative wedding band. I don't impulse-buy things like this very often, but I found this beautiful ring at a Strawberry Festival vendor at an extremely attractive price.
Friday, June 30—Paulsen re-elected
Pastor Jan Paulsen, world president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, was re-elected at 11:26 a.m. on June 30 for a five-year term.
Paulsen, a Norwegian, has served the Church in this role for the past sixteen months and has extensive pastoral and administrative experience as a missionary, teacher, college principal, and church administrator at the highest levels. Paulsen's re-election came as the first vote of the Adventist World Session on leadership matters.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750003_20915af29e_b
Meg believes she can fly
37907680035_f9526cd773_b
Thanksgiving family portrait
45957322122_c3e235f5a3_b
Ark Encounter
Noah's prayer.
Home for the next seven days
35137121923_561c991199_b
Celebrating birthdays with a chocolate LEGO cake
49901698788_81579e8bd8_b
Picked up a few new geocaches today with the nephews
32773368477_e855dd77a8_b
Fountain of Youth—upper portion
Description in photo two prior.
The masses of performers make their way to the stage
25318541638_1fd5b87cf7_b
Super thrilled to once again have a respectable-looking front lawn, with massive props to my father-in-law, Dean, and his colleague, Dave for the install
48837819571_0d571259e5_b
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Target seems to have a distorted definition of "lower than advertised"
29735625633_65451d8798_b
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
40345874001_cf58359456_b
Happy Thanksgiving from the Bennett/Bixby/Myers family
49139416881_86bcaa75c2_b
ABC
A full-fledged, 10,000-square-foot Adventist Book Centre was set up in the exhibition hall for the benefit of Session attendees. More than 50 authors participated in book signings.
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
40345874831_4a2d38b7bc_b
Dear Criminal Minds producers: that is NOT Tampa
31822240834_95b1a56695_b
Charleston architecture
33292814582_c1b991bc64_b
Biltmore mansion library
A brightened panorama photo of this very dark room gives a view The Chariot of Aurora on the ceiling, originally painted for the Pisani Palace in Venice in the 1720s by Giovanni Pellegrini.
Looking forward to this view every day this week—hopefully a few sunrises, too
35905345656_99d2ddd94a_b
We went Soarin’
49327750356_48efaa1a1d_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749231_3dff466ff2_b
Found in a small Mt. Dora bookstore—hilarious stuff inside
32278726712_95cd0984c5_b
My brother-in-law has this crazy notion that Apple, Inc. is getting into the cosmetics business
32217562461_8217e1a597_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580207841_025e75d938_b
Day 4
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
31062199812_7b5a14758e_b
Holy cannoli iPhone 11 Pro night mode is unbelievable—top is standard, nonHDR shot of very dark outdoors, bottom is night mode of same scene!
49245344612_d5f7af05de_b
Day 6
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Mac Mini Unboxing
Apple understands product packaging better than *any* other business. Fight me.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
32573852174_9920c79af8_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579780631_6b12317143_b
Geocaching First To Find
Collaborated with a seasoned player who placed a cache at my work property (with permission) enabling me to claim a coveted FTF.
If you’d like to hunt this cache, search for GC85N88.
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579357493_cc3c22f132_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245523_fb2446c293_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
It was probably for the best that I couldn’t use Flickr while it was down—I had a LOT of weekend preparation work to do
47929662786_066f18edb0_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
This is the starter piece provided to us to continue weaving.
Good morning, Florida
45951887394_4e8c0d9fa8_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Threading the sweetgrass weave one loop at a time.
Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
48721394533_dc70723dde_b
Frightening—house fire a block away from mine; apparently began in rear living room, most kids were outside playing, everyone else got out, and all are safe
49663975832_cdae80aedd_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579946992_a7d0f297fb_b
Lori's selfie shots weren't turning out—night mode to the rescue!
49327278563_55ac136c87_b
Family outing to Crepevine
45422066344_e334f1d5b4_b
Ironwork by renowned blacksmith Philip Simmons
32633982283_040de1293a_b
Four family members, one chair
49329883826_cab41fb1e9_b
The view from the Biltmore mansion's main level tiled loggia
The patio has splendid views of Biltmore's Deer Park and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Managed a shot of the eclipse through a coworker's pair of glasses—not a great shot, but it's mine
36323858240_e7a491bf30_b
A tech glitch prevented video to the system on opening night, but it’s now been resolved and media is ready for Friday morning at Camp Meeting 2019
40624116403_562af5fc9a_b
Ark Encounter
Creation vs. evolution.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580435702_c31e8b44e2_b
Sabbath attendance
This panorama was stitched from three photos that weren't originally shot with a panorama in mind. Yet they still give a slight impression of the attendance at Sabbath worship. Conservative guesses placed attendance at approximately 55,000.
Adventist commemorative stamp detail
Photo by Bryans Stynyk. Painting title: "Storm Clouds."
Picturing the sun breaking through the clouds, this commemorative stamp represents the Adventist Church as a "people of hope." The stamp is the first in North America to honor the work of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and was unveiled by Canada Post during the Session opening ceremony.
Biltmore mansion library
George's collection ranges from American and English literature to history, religion, philosophy, art, and architecture.
Nissan advertises the 2017 Versa with highway fuel economy of 39 MPG—real life never reaches perfect testing conditions, but this is quite impressive
37632731346_1d97999c04_b
Good night, Florida
31715357804_1b1ea2362a_b
Unveiling Canada Post's Adventist commemorative stamp
Three million stamps were produced, issued for June 29, 2000-June 28, 2001 at a denomination of 46¢ CDN. The actual stamps were 40mmx26mm and printed with a six-color lithography process.
Sunscreen application #fail
35148256904_8fc0d203ba_b
Well I didn't plan to sit front and center at tonight's Prophecy Encounter program by Doug Batchelor, but somehow, here I am
32937877686_220529b821_b
Picked up a geocache this morning—I hope its owner replaces the broken container soon
40991265885_282b6dff7c_b
Saturday, July 1—Leaders back stage prepare for NAD mission program
"The International Festival of Mission" spotlighted a loving, diverse Church family; intent on reaching out to find souls for Jesus. In Saturday evening's program, July 1, the North American Division (NAD) shared how men, women, and children are joining hands to help finish the work and point the world to Jesus as the answer and The Way. The Trans-European Division's report followed NAD.
Many varieties of stories were related on the huge JumboTron video screen, and many of those involved with the stories came out on stage to add their remarks: The Salt Lake City church offering up their diversity as a strength and a witness in their community…the Inland Spanish church in California equipping all its members for evangelism…youth of the Boulder, Colorado, church building the first Seventh-day Adventist church on the Island of Jay in the South Pacific…a youth crusade using computer technology in Fort Lauderdale…and a women's crusade in South Florida. "This," NAD leaders and members affirmed, "is our Church!"
During 1995-1999, there were more than 750 evangelistic crusades—nine of them broadcast via satellite. More than 185,000 new members have been nurtured. For the first time, in 1999, more than 40,000 people were baptized!
Only in America is there an official Department of Redundancy Department
29386827123_eec0530d13_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580491127_9f7095095b_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
After having lost both the Pontiac Vibe and the Honda Accord to mechanical issues, I finally bit the bullet and, with my wife's blessing, purchased a 2017 Nissan Versa SV in April 2017.
I didn't initially set out to buy something brand new. In the process of seeking a car for me to replace the Accord and the borrowed Silverado, a number of used options as private sales came to my attention, but none quite seemed right. I eventually chose to talk to a childhood friend of mine who is co-owner of an Orlando-area Nissan dealership. Upon looking at a couple used vehicles in my price range, I was nearly ready to buy a brick red 2013 Versa. I slept on the decision and, the next morning, readjusted some budget numbers which resulted in my ability to increase what I could afford monthly. In doing so, the dealer came up with this brand-new 2017 Versa that was much better equipped than the used model. So, this makes my third-ever brand-new car (or only two that I've purchased—one of them was a lease).
Interesting footnote, it *technically* was not sold as a new car. From what I understand, it was previously sold, but never delivered. I'm not sure if that means the buyer didn't pick it up and reneged on the sale, or some other circumstance. Whatever the case, it had literally been "sold" once prior, thus had to be sold to me as a used vehicle, in spite of never truly having a previous owner and only 8 miles showing on the odometer!
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
30042208066_f3c4bc782d_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Biltmore mansion upper floor hallway
48721913017_b2807b4647_b
Good night, Florida
49939982986_dcdacefe77_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580008027_66de54dfa7_b
ABC
A full-fledged, 10,000-square-foot Adventist Book Centre was set up in the exhibition hall for the benefit of Session attendees. More than 50 authors participated in book signings.
Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245938_a3f08bb2bf_b
Charleston alley
33292935932_d5fe8c4dd5_b
Grandpa was teaching Maddox how to catch the football
31980122250_e4f45bd5bc_b
Day 5
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
The Barnett ranch is a beautiful property with scenic views
48721397773_32bbb3e00b_b
Panorama of the approach walkway to Ark Encounter
48721910707_d8707e13fb_b
Nifty projection mapping demo seen at InfoComm 2015
50134494257_92ff5073f1
Real iPads, real beauty
49640923048_244bc6b94d_c
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579860956_79ae0634d3_b
Other than the fact I don’t have any paprika, my first go at making deviled eggs was a success
50683720981_aa5cfd204a_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579946832_be3d3304b2_b
The view from my resort room this week did not suck
31003419286_2a9720e86d_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007867_4460cf0dfd_b
Preparing to board
30384351884_027d9b1e6a_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750241_ecac3e4bfc_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749271_3d7fd4653c_b
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
It’s been a long, busy weekend—I’m tired, but it’s been a wonderful Camp Meeting, and the last big meeting is over
41263276172_b3446a2dc3_b
Ark Encounter
Space utilization.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
Grits and fried eggs, seasoned with black pepper and pink Himalayan salt—both freshly ground, of course! YUM
50820955303_fc5cd86fd1_b
Heyward Washington House
33065015630_6b3f6e8c39_b
YinYang
If a white cat crosses the path, does it cancel out a black cat previously crossing the path?
Charleston architecture
33065196210_7b9e321ef1_b
The Session was broadcast via satellite
Adventist Communication Network (ACN) and Adventist Global Communication Network (AGCN) teamed up to bring satellite broadcasts of the Session to the world. Their television room (pictured), production offices, and a news desk/interview area were set up in the exhibition area of the Convention Centre.
Friday, July 7—The NAD communication team
Seated: Celeste Ryan, left, NAD media relations manager; and Hans Olson, NAD communication assistant. Standing, from left: Betty Cooney, Southern California Conference communication director; Denise Valenzuela, Columbia Union Conference communication director; Ednor Davison, Atlantic Union Conference Gleaner managing editor; Jean Thomas, Southwestern Union Conference communication director; and Lee Bennett, Florida Conference communication department production assistant. Web site photographer Glenn Mitchell, Maritime Conference communication director, was behind the camera.
Biltmore Gardens Railway video
90 seconds of miniature railway footage.
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
29992836371_3f087cda0a_b
I guess that explains the early morning power outage
39908185290_0f5e015bfd_b
Meg gets her sugar fix
49327756906_a49944554a_b
Newly remodeled Altamonte Apple Store is SWEET
48723613437_b599cda5db_b
Biltmore mansion third floor living hall
This was the common space used by special visitors who stayed in the guest accommodations located on the third floor.
2017 Nissan Versa SV
It feels like I've attained a certain official-ness by finally being able to ditch the temporary tag and install my custom license plate.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
35279044663_09318b7c49_b
Biltmore mansion vegetable pantry
48721402543_2d88dfd756_b
My wife and I labored on Labor Day, getting our garage straightened up sufficiently to bring the car inside for protection during Hurricane Dorian
48667693998_9a115b2faa_b
Mason’s a goner but Maddox will exact his revenge
49902194863_a85353f006_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580453317_9e860c7a0b_b
Newborn me
29542169995_6512b1aaf6_b
A Rainbow of Ministry
The Session's host—the North American Division—erected this large banner, making the exhibition booth immediately identifiable. Beneath the banner, visitors found kiosks with brochures and online information about the Division's ministries, resources, organizations, and members. There were interactive web kiosks and presentations given by Division personnel and ministry leaders—live and on video.
2017 Nissan Versa SV
33741430762_f74a020edf_b
Biltmore mansion tiled loggia
Huge rear patio on the main level. It serves as an extension to the adjacent tapestry gallery when the French doors are opened.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
48721401583_b014e0925a_b
Time to robe-up
49327282983_ee402873d1_b
Allow me to introduce our spiffy new SDD full bleed booklet trimmer and square fold finisher—it’s SO awesome!
50493155707_803f38ec60_b
Welcome to my vantage point for the next few hours
30213173625_945c7017ea_b
In case you couldn't guess on last week's photo where I arranged to spend a few nights
30087042252_8ba2b39c24_b
Biltmore mansion library
Nearly half of George's collection (22,000-23,000 volumes in total) is in this library. A chess set and gaming table in this room was once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte.
I wonder what my car is counting down to
31767377178_5b092eff84_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
Aric and Rainey making progress.
Chloe and Xander wish you a Merry Christmas
50759308741_86debe1e27_b
Good night, Florida
50007391822_409c5038c0_b
Biltmore mansion Winter Garden
The atrium area has a glass roof illuminating the center fountain sculpture, Boy Stealing Geese, by Karl Bitter which was installed just weeks before George Vanderbilt opened the house to his family on Christmas Eve, 1895.
Current status
43714431041_0445e57a4a_b
Biltmore mansion third floor living hall
This was the common space used by special visitors who stayed in the guest accommodations located on the third floor.
1850s-1870s sugar mill ruins
Description in prior photo.
Good morning, Florida
32991222646_757fb3cc9f_b
I was surprised today to see Calvary Orlando refurbished with brand new multicolor seats, replacing the pews
33228380303_b265bc146c_b
Back stage
Event participants preparing for their part in a program contribute to the flurry of activity that goes on behind the elaborate stage backdrop.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580086177_1694f30682_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
The Exodus away from the beach
36521585141_e5f37ddc72_b
Interesting history on a building in Charleston
33448638885_edb5cd781e_b
Misc. other photos from the week—amateur radio tower
49579781168_daa00ede29_b
Ark Encounter
A splendid index explaining what "kind" actually means and how the Ark could accommodate what was necessary. (Note that the Bible states Noah brought two—or seven—of every "kind," not necessarily of every single "animal.")
The next day we drove to Pigeon Forge and had lunch at Cheddar's with a few of the family members who would be attending the 50th anniversary party that weekend
48721733916_a37bc2b552_b
Operating room
26661371649_3612111a51_b
Biltmore mansion gun room
48721401003_f8cf40634d_b
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
49327973727_d176620a8f_b
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
This is my wife, Lori's, shot that she let me use in this album, taken later in our visit when a storm began brewing.
Good night, Florida
42876985570_d66423c1af_b
Charleston architecture
32634413143_689009bf19_b
Time to update my prescription—went with a whole new look with my frames
41961225152_4a36799180_b
Candlelight Processional performers in the holding tent ready for rehearsal
39181106591_9e7ddd2547_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Good morning Mr. Hawk
44626109335_591fc902a0_b
Good night, Florida
30167573977_531d23af1d_b
Biltmore mansion master bedroom hallway
This hallway connects George and Edith's bedrooms along with the sitting room between the two bedrooms.
Scootin' around
Session attendees got used to a lot of walking. John Duroe, Southern Asia-Pacific Division communication director, found a better way.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579707253_400a952cb0_b
My office’s previous bulk cutter was 3-decade-old busted jawn and died a couple months ago—today, we had the new hotness delivered!
27731987599_c9a36e7bf3_b
Japanese drum demonstration
49327966777_f8af01f305_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
The trunk is rather cavernous for such a small vehicle, and the rear seats fold down to allow even longer items to fit.
Biltmore Estate Gardens
Following an all-day Tuesday drive to Asheville, NC, where we met up with my parents, we spent Wednesday touring the Biltmore Estate, starting with the gardens which was featuring a temporary attraction, Biltmore Gardens Railway with miniature train sets.
Marvelous rainbow last night
48404534177_6990e82890_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Ark Encounter
Shem and Ar'yel.
Merry Christmas—Altamonte Mall style
31759749436_4d60342648_b
Calling grandma
49327975182_8442c372f5_b
Good night, Florida (iPhone 11 Pro night mode continues to amaze—this photo was captured at 9:45pm)
49954129136_437ee5dbdf_b
I officially no longer have to avoid spoilers!
49270408908_439c333dff_b
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579356688_2a178621cd_b
At last, proper storage/organization of all my iPad accessories and gadgets thanks to Skooba Design products—thanks mom/dad for the birthday gift!
I. LOVE. THIS. BAG.
After a good many years, I have retired the too-small Case Logic tote which carried my iPad in one sleeve and an absolute hodgepodge of gadgets in another pouch. I had previously bought Skooba Design's Cable Stable DLX (the green-lined organizer) thinking I could use it for my stuff and simply lay the iPad inside and close up, but it was too full to close.
When Skooba confirmed the DLX would fit inside the largest pouch in the V.3 Satchel Mini, I knew I'd found my solution. Most of my gadgets are organized in the DLX with a few larger ones in pockets located in the Satchel's smaller storage pouch (top of photo). Then the iPad slides easily into the third pouch normally designed for a small laptop. My 10.5" iPad Pro fits nicely and I suspect a full size iPad Pro would fit instead in the unlikely event I ever choose to upgrade to that size. Besides not having enough room for my gadgets in the old Case Logic tote, the 10.5" iPad Pro only barely fit, whereas it easily slides in and out of the V.3 Satchel Mini.
Always a treat to come here
34166532715_ebb82db106_b
Playing with night mode—China pavilion
49327749491_b9981c3171_b
Guess where I'm spending a few nights :-)
30042427916_0e5e416347_b
Morning moon
29633590612_917ebea35b_b
Heyward Washington House
33448345235_5a4a19f015_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 3
35868297311_b87cf6a56c_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580225231_47a1897460_b
That feeling when you were doing oh so well with your hand lettering, until… 😖
26068820647_97158c0acf_b
Info panel on how sugar was made at Spring Garden Plantation
39448668245_e19afdb390_b
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Dubose Heyward House
33448411435_b1ce274f5d_b
Ark Encounter
We're inside the door!
Spaghetti Warehouse in historic Ybor City district
30076226005_1c468f7a2a_b
Souvenir Kellogg's Corn Flakes boxes from the 150th anniversary program celebrating Adventist Health
29122503744_e39e137485_b
Our Tuesday afternoon tour of downtown Charleston began with a meetup at The Mills House hotel
32605572654_72a02ba2e5_b
Good morning, Florida, so glad it's daylight again during my usual morning walk hour
30536337390_78b16b93e2_b
Charleston architecture
33448430445_5bcd2292b6_b
Greetings from church retreat at Camp Kulaqua
30635747480_ab918a0614_b
Living room pose with that awesome wall paneling that went many years with no moulding
28916985364_7cc71dee5a_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
Ignore that temporary tag. My regular MAC-USER plate will go on there as soon as the registration arrives in the mail.
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
Ark Encounter
Water and waste technology.
Red sky at morning…
50540168371_0a3ddf1976_b
Colorful flag entrance
Photo by Lori Bennett
GCTV production
49580285111_bc9c27c76c_b
CN Tower
There aren't many outdoor locations in downtown Toronto where the CN Tower doesn't make its presence known.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416509765_45d3afd97e_b
My neighborhood sits high above three enormous, deep retention ditches—virtually zero flood risk #HurricaneIrma
36336837914_5f4fa5b65e_b
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580490932_7c58cdf4f8_c
Day 1
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580435402_2061e33ea7_b
Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
48721395493_b6bc0969ee_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579976362_324b0f7f47_b
Ark Encounter official photo stop—daytime angle version
48721398613_f714846037_b
Thursday, June 29—countless flags adorned the Session main stage
49579718106_801cfc97ab_b
Happy Thanksgiving from our crazy family to yours
31214728625_f086a1d5bc_b
Local public elementary school teachers did a drive-by parade through neighboring communities for their students staying at home
49697786697_13c1962967_b
Michael English performing for annual Florida Hospital Thanksgiving program
30957303452_acc6351663_b
Awww, poor guy must either be old/sick or hurt—found him on the sidewalk, wouldn’t move for nothing, and I didn’t know what to do :-(
26588410107_99462b0d51_b
Pediatric emergency room suite
38406251042_f68589e1e9_b
Toronto had a very nice, clean subway system
49580233056_910257655d_b
Good night, Florida
32544664575_99f36c3c35_b
Astonishingly, this nasty weather scooted past Apopka without a drop of rain in my area
50193411511_28ff579463_b
Charleston architecture
33065329760_b1c1e1a1f8_b
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579246008_81f4743b7a_b
Arrival
Columbia Union College chartered its bus for guests arriving at Session—a quick photo shows it blending in with the local landmarks.
I wore a new dress to church; "modest is hottest" LOL
48750805811_e5fe925681_b
Welcome to adulthood, Meg
50602095831_920e60ae6c_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579976962_5a91c2b85e_b
Pre-fireworks sunset—good night and happy Independence Day, Florida
35556786702_453b8e1a87_b
Not the worst hotel room view :-)
49472704886_d174a5c131_b
Biltmore mansion servant bedroom
Most uncommonly for the period, Biltmore servants had a comfortably furnished, heated, private room. Most servants were allowed two hours off daily, but were still on call. They received one afternoon and one evening off per week as well as a half day every other Sunday.
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
iPhone 7 Unboxing
No, I'm not really concerned about the loss of the 3.5mm audio jack. I have used Apple's earbuds for a long time, so I have no trouble using the Lightning connector instead of 3.5mm. As for piping music to an external source, I essentially always do that with my iPad rather than my iPhone, or with my old 5G iPod.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33260962532_b3f453fdc5_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
My parents visited today for Christmas gift exchange, a little help updating outdoor light fixtures, and yummy lunch
50741396502_53085cc751_b
Biltmore mansion upper/exterior view of Winter Garden atrium
This view looks out from a window on the third floor above the master bedroom hallway.
Day 3
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Enjoying the treat!
49327278873_1931d31c7f_b
Session floor and stage
The 60x200-foot stage construction was donated by National Church Furnishing Company. Besides the SkyDome's built-in seating for spectators, 14,000 chairs were set up on the main floor, primarily for delegates. More than 10,000 yards of carpet was laid in the exhibition hall for the Adventist Book Center.
Marvelous rainbow last night
48404521822_beb513e19c_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579707283_91a1a00d60_b
More iPhone 11 Pro experimentation, using the super wide angle lens on this koi pond in the Japan pavilion after a tasty lunch
49327751151_0285a1ce48_b
Misc. other photos from the week—some sort of large cake presented during the main meetings
49579783573_29f17d41c2_b
I offered to Facebook Live my brother’s wedding next weekend—my “compensation” is getting to keep the Glif mount and iRig Pre he bought that will make the broadcast much better (I just tested them and they work flawlessly)
38491499342_284d4418cd_b
Natalie Grant at Florida Hospital's annual Thanksgiving program
31064161446_c613415130_b
Happiness is family sharing a dozen different flavors of ice cream
50203506932_af9092a4a8_b
Ark Encounter
Ark size and shape.
1,370 pieces printed, collated, stuffed, and stamped in 40 minutes—1.75 seconds per piece: not bad!
33500738193_e18d3486ab_b
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas…at my church
30570533744_0185bb9bca_b
Time for another installment of the post-dinner-family-outing-group-selfie series
43078531785_6bfba40f1a_b
Church picnic at Wilson’s Landing Park
39292901275_11c234fd55_b
Funny Kellogg's corn flakes jingle segment from the Adventist health 150th anniversary program
29141511323_c24a39f3e7_b
Biltmore mansion gun room
48721911462_8091b91a11_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579277723_a89eff12bf_b
Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
48721730161_58b36540eb_b
Got to catch up with these guys on vacation from Texas and have a wonderful lunch and conversation
28790121277_43ac86c812_b
I have a back-and-forth, love-hate relationship between the old Modular Apple Watch face and the new Infograph Modular face
The complication sizes on Infograph Modular are great on the Series 4, but I disdain Apple’s mandate for the small ones to be circular based. I really want the old style small Modular complications on the new Infograph Modular face.
Time to line up
49327759136_67bc6a4a8c_b
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Nearing the top
31205608625_7125d1399e_b
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
Looking the opposite direction toward the organ loft.
CN Tower glass floor
One of the most unique attractions of the CN Tower is its glass floor…
Views of Biltmore Gardens
48721404078_2c59154b85_b
Loud and clear
The sound of every spoken word and every musical note coming from the stage was routed through this mixing console in the middle of the Session Floor. Those who sat in the rear portions of the SkyDome experienced an interesting curiosity of science, caused by the sheer size of the venue—it takes almost a full second for sound to travel from the powerful speakers to the back of the SkyDome. Since light doesn't have this perceived delay, the effect was accentuated when the sound was heard while also watching the JumboTron video display above the stage.
(My friend, Jeff's, shot) Edward James Olmos was back stage chatting up the theater attendants prior to the show and I had the chance to say hello and shake his hand
49327775751_0ff4bc9f57_b
Storm a-brewin'
35240765611_b208c42484_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579707303_f65e16dc00_b
A great anniversary day at Magic Kingdom
43955105711_1d9a6808cf_b
Time to line up
49327759341_bec2197819_b
I don't recognize the interior so this must be inside the trailer
29507877756_8c6e90d384_b
Godzilla vs. the Sandcastles—Mason happily volunteered to knock them down when it was time to leave
31545927083_16712aa00f_b
Lots of activities—including face painting
29665679167_fde45f543c_b
On Friday, the camp entrance road was the absolute smoothest I’d ever experienced, but after Saturday’s deluge, my Sunday departure was a 5MPH creep over the bumpiest I’ve ever seen
41697840404_38edc43794_b
CN Tower
At 1,815 feet, 5 inches, Canada's CN Tower was the world's tallest free-standing structure until 2007 when it was overtaken by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE. It is an important telecommunications hub and the center of tourism in Toronto since it was built in 1976. The observation platform is 1,136 feet or 114 stories above the ground.
Been a while since I've driven beneath a Hyperlapse-worthy sky
34527805244_accf440279_b
Entrance to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
39448650085_119aa436e7_b
The maze
30398510063_2ae7a3937a_b
Xander's vacation
First stop, Pet Paradise Resort where Xander spent the week while we traveled.
Preparing to sing
49327981822_37b2848682_b
Family pose
49327762801_25d064f8be_b
Final positioning check
49327978677_9f95a55c91_b
(Pre)Rehearsal dinner at FlameStone for my brother’s wedding on Sunday
26866637799_88739228af_b
Biltmore mansion bowling alley
The house featured one of the nation's first bowling alleys instealled in a private residence.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579976637_9a789be40b_b
Terry Shaw, President/CEO of Adventist Health System
26661361479_9b2a05c545_b
Charleston architecture
33292746222_9e664964a3_b
Good night, Florida
43803614854_e2eda36f2c_b
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
City trolley—among the more unique forms of Toronto transportation
49579731733_872bef7764_b
Hey pastors—ever accidentally drop your wireless mic transmitter pack while standing in the baptistry?
35183348711_58546e3e77_b
ABC
A full-fledged, 10,000-square-foot Adventist Book Centre was set up in the exhibition hall for the benefit of Session attendees. More than 50 authors participated in book signings.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579750066_8206a2f8d2_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579780881_1542e042e6_b
Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579724678_1e4a5f2c8e_b
Good morning, Florida (iPhone 7 HDR photo—absolutely no adjustments or filters)
30470178911_671d690935_b
Cuckoo clocks in the Germany pavilion
49327978532_0eb1b46ddc_b
On duty all day since 7am to record the HR Summit hosted by my office
31952321057_5a379c5a0a_b
What is this miracle product that keeps your food off dirty grill bars but can still leave dark grill lines?
34480108696_f681e02aa9_b
Me with my brother and two cousins
29507877606_ba4594a8a6_b
Whopper of a storm raced me home to Apopka from the west as I approached from the east—the storm won
48468126956_0616703e84_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580263591_210fd9f978_b
Took a detour past the hospital where I was born
49606643833_ac5aaf0ed9_b
Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579860686_de44a43155_b
Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
48721397198_c4e8405d27_b
Rosanna Juarez, clown ministry
Part of the NAD web site I curated included a section of "man-on-the-street" style questions put to random attendees. I decided to not include them in this Flickr album, except this one shot because it is so fun. The photo is of Rosanna Juarez who, at the time, was from Los Angeles. The interviewer was Myla (Ferrer) Trenchuk, and I was able to reach out to both these young women on Facebook to share that I had put the web site back online for "funsies."
The original question Myla was asking on this final day of the session was, "What has been your most memorable moment this past week at the General Conference Session?"
Rosanna's response was: "At the subway, there was a man looking at me. So, I approached him and we began to talk. He asked me what I was doing here and I explained to him that I was here doing ministry. He began to tell me his problems and I told him about Jesus and how He can help. I also told him about the meetings at the SkyDome. To my excitement, he said he would try and attend the services this weekend. Praise God!"
Millennium Falcon Rice Krispie dessert (yes, the antenna was the first piece to be removed)
49901702368_cfe2ac0bb9_b
Good night, Florida
34894346243_c52bb03c11_b
Biltmore mansion billiard room
This room in the bachelors' wing on the main level (although it did not deter female guests) featured custom oak billiard tables made in 1895. There is also a doorway disguised to look like part of the wall which allowed gentlemen to discreetly retire to the adjacent smoking room.
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Vacation officially begins now!
35533482420_7ce94d47dd_b
More night mode experimentation—Mexico pavilion
49327978227_ec3ef059ec_b
Thursday, July 6—Secretariat
Every word of the General Conference Session business meetings must be recorded and transcribed. Secretariat workers performed this function with amazing speed. Every 10 minutes, tapes were taken to be transcribed. The text was available for review shortly thereafter.
Third Annual Myers’ House Easter Egg Hunt
33261949613_2e461edba7_b
Candlelight Processional group photo at the church before leaving
49327984007_3c6b19bb8c_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245508_4b0e5b56c2_b
Rainbow Row
33408130566_6a9b07bd94_b
Night shot, post-flight
31205576715_b6d9aa1783_b
Like many other friends, I saw last night’s amazing rainbow too, but just couldn’t get a decent capture; top pic is original/unedited, bottom is some playing around editing but still “meh” compared to how it looked for real
50202620221_d7d046def5_b
Pre-sunset show
50045540966_7398b182f0_b
"Please do not bend" — (there was literally nothing but this piece of paper in the envelope!)
34378587290_7411d5cfc9_b
Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy
38437430711_0f2edd219e_b
As I always say, obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
49327747891_5fc4e6bccf_b
Charleston architecture
33448591785_5325ec6b25_b
Receiving our instructions and introductions for the day in "The Best Friend Room" at The Mills Hotel
32634490173_625d733e77_b
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration—we had a yummy lunch at Hunter's Cafe
48721908152_734704437a_b
This hired entertainer walked around demonstrating a variety of stunts including plate spinning, juggling, and stilt walking
43694268475_054899d861_b
ALL. DAY. LONG. TODAY.
41853547270_bf61800ae6_b
Good morning, Florida
33599232156_ebb1317c55_b
Real tacos, real beauty
49641444326_515f4d1d49_b
Playing with night mode—Canada pavilion
49327969647_2a7f8d799b_b
Final result of a craft/prop project for a Vacation Bible School event
33189335982_86b7909dec_b
2006 Chrysler Town & Country
During the first period in late 2016 that I drove the borrowed Silverado, my wife and I searched for a second vehicle for long-term. Upon realizing that it would really be advantageous to be able to transport more than 4-5 people on occasion, we found this minivan in really decent condition at a good price in October 2016. Upon acquisition, it became my wife's primary vehicle and I started driving the Honda Accord until it died. The T&C is showing a few signs of its own issues, but I'm praying it's something I can easily remedy soon so my wife can drive this for a good while longer.
Playing with night mode—Mexico pavilion
49327748236_7a21116ea4_b
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
2017 Nissan Versa SV
33054399824_8a1625f11e_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749456_f151787f5a_b
I did some preliminary vehicle shopping today, but sadly this Ferrari wasn't a consideration
29533496761_08ea64007d_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580250406_cf1e01d6f4_b
Good night, Florida
48596086366_0ccd824234_b
Hangin’ out on Orlando Wall Street Plaza’s Big Chair
44333390520_69ec3c38dc_b
Charleston architecture
33320059711_8bcddf1989_b
Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579702608_808b7f3f2f_b
Afternoon beach time has been cancelled
35937815681_c8ca460dfe_b
Brother-in-law Danny Myers joined us for the hospital tour
Photo by Lori Bennett
It's time for another exciting chapter of "Can Lee publish this month's podcast before the end of the month?"
34182745203_e73da2ef04_b
Lots of selfies
30398507693_15a80237f4_b
Crazy—nearly 400 kids registered for VBS at my church with more than 200 volunteer staff!
41975635714_ef6c1d0b66_b
Awesome storm clouds drifting by in a time-lapse video
50432618788_18d2e291b0_b
Hangin’ with the local wildlife at my office
49665079543_682a5254e1_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
30838267350_14aa2529da_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Meg learns about phone booths
49327756356_2440aa133d_b
Proud of this girl—second chair flute at Volusia All-County Music Festival
32199151570_9e880a41a3_b
Salted caramel pretzel—YUM
49327279228_8bb3249d5f_b
The moon was super-moony tonight!
27044759479_7dc1c199cc_b
Charleston architecture
33319893821_eefcfc3e64_b
Sprite with a story
On September 6, 2014, I felt as though this bottle of Sprite was perhaps the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.
I had been admitted to the hospital with terrible stomach pain which turned out to be pancreatitis. I hadn't really consumed anything for a couple days (nor did I want to) due to the pain, but by September 6, the meds were beginning to work. I was jonesin' really badly for something with flavor.
Looking back, considering that I was ultimately diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, receiving a sugary soda from a nurse may not have been the wisest thing. But, since I couldn't manage to finish even half of it, and I'd consumed virtually nothing for a while, nothing horrible came of it.
I distinctly remember being in tears over being so happy to finally have something with taste. And I'm pleased to report that after some time of being on Lantus insulin, I managed to get off of it. I'm still on a battle with elevated triglycerides and take a handful of various meds every day, but I'm still off the Lantus and doing all I can to stay off it.
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
In the background, a mirror in the bathroom doorway gives a glimpse of George's paw-footed bathtub.
Lots of activities—including balloon artists
44604233461_2afb58bf80_b
25-year recognition
27234755037_c47b5fecb6_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
Very cool-looking accents in the form of chrome door handles.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579357293_c2f50a28f4_b
My 2017 Versa is averaging ½ mile per gallon higher than the maximum rated highway economy—way to go, Nissan!
25497673157_2dc2c733b1_b
Good night, Florida
24424242568_f5dbd2ba35_b
Sunday, the day after the anniversary party, our immediate family drove back to Pigeon Forge for a trip to Dollywood
48721732111_01f7a9dd7f_b
Tuesday, July 4—Interview studio
GCTV's news desk and interview area were located in the heart of the exhibition hall. Pictured is newly elected North American Division President Don C. Schneider and It Is Written Speaker/Director Mark Finley preparing for a an interview on the Adventist Communication Network.
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Biltmore mansion official photo stop—Winter Garden version
48721382188_39e573d70e_b
Charleston architecture
33065111950_bac6ddc9ef_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007787_4dfde73c57_b
International women's meetings
Speakers from eastern Africa, the Caribbean, Japan, Australia, and Canada led a series of meetings that organizers said were an "international celebration of faith." More than 2,000 women were expected to attend the event.
Crap, I’m old
50101393906_3b63f62606_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 2
35979445185_2cf2c66d3a_b
Biltmore mansion banquet hall organ loft
A 1916 Skinner pipe organ looms over the banquet hall. A large motor for the fan providing air to the pipes is in the basement—photo is later in this album.
Passed a family of deer during my morning walk
30922716826_5d4560ab2a_b
The requisite silly snapshot
45095284045_40585721e8_b
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
40345872911_537d147b0c_b
The apocalypse has begun
29193963984_f5e426300d_b
Such a fun day with my sweetie
30124933595_6dd204da4d_b
There was just a little bit of a theme to this year’s Christmas
50760650037_974ae6d12d_b
Merry Christmas from the Bennetts/Bixbys/Myers
50760392226_da40f09d5d_b
The "official" photograph
31215404005_3650c92ae4_b
Meeting Terry Benedict
Enjoyed a fabulous workshop day with special guest Terry Benedict, producer of Hacksaw Ridge and producer/director of The Conscientious Objector.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
49327469878_63a7685169_b
First time I've ever experienced La-Z-Boy-style reclining seats in a theater—I could get used to this!
31756647541_bd870b0e83_b
Ambitious Zoom event redux
I had collaborated on an event back in May that streamed participants in Zoom to Facebook and YouTube. My role was managing videos, media, countdowns, etc. It was a huge experiment that came off really well with a couple caveats that we have now worked through. In August, we did it again with even greater success.
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
Into all the world
Session programs were translated into more than 20 languages including French, Russian, Romanian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Serbian-Croatian, Korean, and Japanese. The translations are used for satellite broadcasts as well as for attendees in the local audience who can tune into the desired language on radio frequencies. There are also American English and German sign language interpreters in the SkyDome.
The kids—deceptively calm
45095285805_a69f924ee2_b
"Moose in the City"
Throughout the city, moose sculptures greeted Session attendees. Titled "Moose In The City," the outdoor art gallery was based on the Chicago art exhibit, "Cows On Parade," and featured hundreds of life-sized fiberglass moose designed by Torontonian artists. Several moose were located around the Convention Centre and SkyDome.
"Mama always said life was like a box of chocolates…"
During our return home on Monday, we made a pit stop in Savannah, GA, where the welcome center had a few exhibits including this representation of the famous Forrest Gump bus stop scene.
Hot dog, anyone?
Session attendees were delighted to discover that the many hot dog vendors surrounding the Convention Centre and SkyDome began selling vegetarian hot dogs several years ago. The vendors quickly stocked up on veggie dogs when they were told the city would be filled with Seventh-day Adventists who are, predominately, vegetarian. (We who served on the NAD communication team were quick to assure anyone who asked, the veggie-dogs were delicious!)
Crowd Walk Life
38468837082_29e8ec8f39_b
Parting singer group shot
49327281868_2c5fe55d8a_b
The neighborhood park lost an enormous tree #HurricaneIrma
37001796042_dbac0afa65_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579721176_7f3f9462e5_b
Behind the scenes of an ambitious Zoom event
Had a load of fun this evening. This weekend was supposed to be the Pathfinder and Adventurer end-of-year Red Zone weekend at Camp Kulaqua. In response to the COVID-19 quarantine, a virtual event was planned called iRedZone. Tomorrow and Sunday will have other events on other social platforms, but tonight was done with program participants in a Zoom conference which was broadcast live on Facebook where many Adventurers and Pathfinders watched live.
I offered to manage media for tonight’s event in the form of me being in the Zoom meeting and sharing content that I prepared in ProPresenter. Other than not accounting for internet latency creating a bit of delay between audio I played from media and people in the Zoom conference singing along, everything else worked out great. I was thrilled to be able to “plus” the overall production, and had a great time doing it. Kudos to all the program participants for a wonderful event.
What you’re seeing in these photos is me juggling two computers. The laptop ran ProPresenter and the Zoom app to which I occasionally shared the ProPresenter output screen. The two other monitors are connected to my personal computer which I used to monitor ProPresenter output and have visibility of the rundown schedule, Bible texts to display during the sermon, and a chat window with the Pathfinder director to keep each other in the loop on what was coming up next.
If you’d like to have a look at the production, go to Facebook and search for the “Florida Conference Adventurers” and “Florida Conference Pathfinders” Pages, then look for the archives for the respective iRedZone live videos.
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Charleston architecture
32634473233_a204001fbb_b
Monday, July 3—Schneider elected NAD president
Don C. Schneider was elected NAD president, replacing A.C. McClure.
The NAD press release is available on my Session 2000 archive page.
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
32573848294_ab636f207a_b
When I leave Epcot at night, I pretty much always capture some variant of this photo
30040801511_e3a95522dc_b
Greek salad—who knew eating healthy could taste so good
47428894242_d973622871_b
Depart from me, foul liquid that pricketh my skin—nevermore shalt thou come unto my presence
33039550756_eb294b028f_b
Found this relic of technology last weekend—a 3G iPod that sadly will not power up, even with a charge cable attached
27873254128_da1a888a62_b
Candlelight Processional group photo upon arrival at the rehearsal area
49327763866_40e9207c4e_b
Old well found during property renovation
33292391702_61562cbfe5_b
Florida skies this morning
50670278346_daed30a0c4_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579724648_4e66ed82b9_b
Another popular station was the free kettle corn (yummy) set up outside along with several bounce houses
(Photo by Lori Bennett since my hands were full and couldn't easily snap my own shot here.)
Happy Thanksgiving morning
31099110991_b3642675b9_b
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
Forgive this horrible grainy exposure of this heavily brightened photo of what I believe was the darkest room of the entire tour. But the panorama shows the entirety of George's master bedroom.
Happy Birthday, USA!
34918216303_6018dee1ae_b
Fast group photo of Florida Hospital Church choir prior to Candlelight Processional rehearsal
25316184528_39aabe064e_b
…with my sweetie
49327470268_a6e2cfd317_b
Information, please
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) is designed to accommodate multiple organizations meeting in the facility simultaneously. Reportedly, the 2000 World Session was the first event that booked the entire MTCC facility (North and South Buildings) and the SkyDome. With so many activities occurring at so many locations, knowing exactly where to go can seem daunting to the uninitiated. The staffed information booths located at nearly every turn helped people reach their destination and either provided or located answers to an endless variety of questions.
Xmas door decor
I swear, this was my boss' idea, not mine! I only executed the production of it. (It might help to disclose that besides the print work I am largely responsible for, the Service Center also processes the building's incoming and outgoing mail.)
Dealing with locking bathroom tissue holders
Pro tip for workers whose offices use these silly locking toilet roll holders and hate when custodians don't pay attention whether the roll is going over the top. You'll find a little button on one side that you can depress with a small tool, such as the one pictured, to release the lock. Just note that the roll holder only reattaches the same direction, so you will have to take the paper off the holder, turn it around, slide it back on the holder, and put the holder back into place this same direction.
Now, we just need a hack to avoid the wobble these rolls create—I presume to help keep them from spinning out of control and dumping a bunch of paper on the floor.
Still beachin’ it
43669356632_7cbf92d3d3_b
Playing with night mode—China pavilion
49327269298_c381913d2c_b
Celebrating Adri’s 14th birthday during a walk around Lake Baldwin
45606816944_65b7987cee_b
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
48721736751_8f8897b536_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580225186_b302f4c772_b
And we're off…
We're loaded up in the Honda Pilot my sister-in-law graciously loaned us for the trip, ready for adventures.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
48721397548_e80bce9b50_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580431952_6cc0bb8a45_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749931_c71e700375_b
Caricature time lapse
Clearing old/unneeded files from my computer and realized I never shared this time lapse of Meg and Adri's caricature drawing at 2018 Strawberry Festival.
Storm clouds swirled most all of the afternoon, but a fair portion of the afternoon avoided rain
43694274525_2d0ce8456f_b
Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
48721729766_a9073ec9fa_b
Biltmore mansion tiled loggia
Looking across the patio toward the tower that houses servant quarters in the basement (behind the stone portion), the music room on the main level, George Vanderbilt's chamber on the second level, and guest chambers above.
Peeking at another performance of Candlelight Processional, this time with Lisa Ling as the narrator
49327979957_db57a5863f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580007607_99b6c09ca4_b
Rockin’ with the sea lions
32053807383_cb70f58e10_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416530385_4e0361e4fa_b
The scenery at the spot I found to wait for my wife’s 1½-hour appointment does not suck
50645292691_3a3c35911c_b
Finally spotted some dolphin at the beach (excuse the grainy, digitally enlarged/zoomed video)
35260320153_5b2a7fa717_b
When there are 1,645 letters with a two-page enclosure to mail out, having a machine to fold and stuff them all is a godsend!
38125481634_1d32910f80_b
Time to line up
49327978922_b933a9f99a_b
The apocalypse approacheth
35821284382_40ddb5df8f_b
Chillin’ (literally) with the penguins
32487348250_84bdd3cf30_b
The kids—sillier
45282750794_de37330b60_b
Toronto Mayor Mel Lastman
Toronto Mayor Mel Lastman greeted Session attendees during the opening ceremony. He presented keys to the city to Jan Paulsen, General Conference president, and Orville Parchment, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada.
Rock-painting craft at family camp
44415932151_c6b6ede0f5_b
Wednesday, June 28—Session floor and stage
The 60x200-foot stage construction was donated by National Church Furnishing Company. Besides the SkyDome's built-in seating for spectators, 14,000 chairs were set up on the main floor, primarily for delegates. More than 10,000 yards of carpet was laid in the exhibition hall for the Adventist Book Center.
Well okay, just so long as the desire is not for a führer
50524618158_99b6631e52_b
Cute little Mickey ear musical Ferris wheel
49327261943_21d995fe3f_b
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
Side view of a typical slave quarters (left) built behind a master's home in front (right)
33408197366_40c13b29cf_b
Went outside to enjoy the brilliant sunset colors and could hardly stand the deafening cicadas
50203656373_24d58b08b8_b
Restroom gender ID signs on restroom doors at Schlotzky’s Deli seen during 2015 road trip to San Antonio; I wonder if they’re still there considering today’s equality climate
50133982858_2863ce2be8_b
Super bright rainbow
50017472651_2c5e47616a_b
The neighborhood park is a mess #HurricaneIrma
37173592155_50aa88f9e2_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579357433_b53e699cc8_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749556_1b25765886_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms. This is one of the house's 43 bathrooms—a rarity in 1895 when many homes didn't have a single indoor bathroom.
Ark Encounter
Feeding large animals.
Charleston architecture
33448640185_e3132f8533_b
Our destination…
49328168532_e8d0d4e994_b
Anyone remember BitCam?
40302752371_d06b71f087_b
Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy, directed by Vivian Cook
37550686335_e76d571f35_b
Lee: “Since when does Eeyore smile?” Lori: “Since someone fed him Prozac. It’s wonderful stuff!”
45978512561_d0cd30e788_b
Ark Encounter
Twelve Stones Monument.
This is the first time I realized the Post Office that services where I work memorialized my high school classmate, Staff Sgt. Stacey Mastrapa, who was killed in action in Iraq
50141403952_b05d1e7c41_b
Biltmore mansion Halloween room
Originally used for storage, the walls were painted over the course of several weeks by the Cecils, joined by family and friends, with this unusal theme for a New Year's Eve party in 1925—the year after George's daughter, Cornelia, married John Cecil, a British diplomat.
Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
Turns out a colander does pretty well at showing eclipse shadows—pretty, too
36672964036_59cfe6939f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579246028_aa9aa7df9b_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
After completing a couple loops, Henrietta helped close off my weave into a Christmas ornament.
Ellen White *was* ordained!
Quote from the White Estate web site:
"From 1871 until her death in 1915, Ellen White was issued ministerial credentials. From 1871 to 1887 she was credentialed by the Michigan Conference, and from 1884 until her death, she was credentialed as a General Conference Minister. On one of the credentials (1885), the word "ordained" is struck through. (In the 1888 Yearbook she was also listed among the California Ministers.) Throughout the years, her name was listed along with ordained ministers rather than licentiates, although her biographical information sheet and the testimony of her family indicates that she did not receive ordination at the hands of church officials."
Biltmore mansion banquet hall—opposite angle
This photo was from later in the tour looking from the opposite corner of the room. It has a better view of the overall size.
The largest dinner held here seated 38 people at the large oak table. However, the Vanderbilts and family members often dined at a smaller table near the triple fireplaces in the background.
At the elegant dinner parties, guests were treated to fine linens, and family silver, china, and crystal including five wine glasses per person.
I blinked, and the little girl I’ve known was suddenly a young woman
26400468099_df3a4690cd_b
Sign shop: “Do you want that with or without typos?” / Customer: “Without.”
26922302497_74956b5deb_b
Whatever it takes
Adam Bujak, director of Adventist Ministry to College and University Students in Ontario and an Adventist News Network photographer, will go to any extreme to get the right photo. "Thanks Adam!"
My view of the eclipse: probably could’ve done better if not for the lack of motivation—it’s COLD outside!
46822572961_cc397dfe4f_b
Biltmore mansion stone hallway
After descending through a narrow service stairwell below the grand staircase, this long hallway runs along the house's foundation toward the south side.
Hello from Florida Camp Meeting
41233706142_2a259d76a2_b
My office's reception desk has been cast as the set of a café counter for Sunday night's Christmas program (printing a large background banner was my idea)
30732663523_ca84edec96_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
I'm not quite sure how a metal box with no electronic parts can be "out of order"
36939400085_2ffeba7818_b
Charleston architecture
32605530464_1fbe8293b4_b
Misc. other photos from the week—organ and piano
49579779848_14572236ab_b
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
33448635435_95c1156678_b
Three down, seven to go
Actually, this was progress two days prior to posting this photo, but I sort of forgot to post it. The photo shows the process of manually adding front and back covers to 500 sets of a 20-page booklet. So yes, that means earlier I ran 11,000 sheets through the copier—21,000 impressions since the inside pages were double sided.
Neighborhood stepping up tonight from all directions
50077506332_057a6b64e1_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33288311121_6294da4a3b_b
It may have looked like smoke from a catastrophic fire, but it really was just clouds
50124690677_a345d168ea_b
Just found out (typo notwithstanding) a submission I made to this year’s Society of Adventist Communicators annual awards was chosen as a winner (hat tip to Alicia and Heidi for letting me know)
37845730781_a42d982f85_b
Sculpture Unveiling
A sculpture by renowned American sculptor Victor Issa was unveiled during the Session opening ceremony. The artwork, depicting the second coming of Christ, represents the Adventist hope in the soon return of Christ. Featuring 12 life-sized bronze images, the work represents, in three dimensions, one of the central beliefs of the Adventist church—the second coming of Jesus to Earth.
"Words that one usually wouldn't use to describe hard, shiny metal seem to come easily to those who stand among the pieces of this bronze sculpture," says Charlotte McClure, public relations director for the Adventist Church worldwide.
All 12 pieces of the sculpture were later permanently installed in the lobby of the World Church headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Waiting in the green room tent
49327763121_2e604b3935_b
Charleston architecture
32634136473_ca3d6b051e_b
I wonder if my coworkers will concur
27875918417_0f0637bc66_b
Ladies and gentlemen, I submit to you this nomination for the photo example of the 2019 edition dictionary listing for “redneck”
32604682128_12c7d1495b_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580491227_2ae6d74ce4_b
My first home
I don't remember a thing about it, but I lived in this trailer until around age 2. But I definitely remember the old Impala.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579707168_a1e6dfe110_b
Good morning, Florida
29092088613_69b3875db3_b
Still seeing strong gusts, but things seem to have fared well in North Apopka—power has remained on
PS - video is double speed.
Ironwork by renowned blacksmith Philip Simmons
32605383244_d00c291d8f_b
Fountain of Youth—lower portion
Description in prior photo.
Sweet 16 (photo by Lori)
Well, her birthday was actually last week, but a number of different celebrations at a number of different venues were planned.
Approaching the attraction
31205629015_ec4ef52085_b
We saw Chalmers Street…
32605570464_3296f5bd65_b
Good morning, Florida (iPhone 7 HDR photo—absolutely no adjustments or filters)
30557762355_cb80d3d30b_b
Biltmore mansion entrance hall
48721403503_bbb2394f50_b
See, Ross, it IS possible to not make the "everyday" mistake—as HomeGoods proves
31862286806_bc5bb508fd_b
Checking out the UK pavilion
49327754666_ce924e0e47_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416584715_098455ef93_b
Biltmore mansion breakfast room
In spite of the breakfast room name, both breakfast and luncheon was served in this room. Portaits in this room include George Vanderbilt's grandfather, Cornelius "Commodore" Vanderbilt (the founder of the family fortune), and his father, William Henry Vanderbilt.
The two smallest paintings in this photo (bottom of the trio of art to the right of the fireplace) are by Renoir: Young Algerian Girl and Child with an Orange.
Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
SkyDome seen from CN Tower
Looking down on the SkyDome where the GC Session business meetings and the evening mission pageants are held.
The apocalypse approacheth
35859310611_5cfbf7a55c_b
Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
50,000 miles in just two years and 19 days—whew!
46761543085_a8008321db_b
I presume there was some sort of gas spill or leak (fire also?) at the intersection of highways 437 & 44—foam clumps flying around everywhere!
41189134524_1da6b5aca7_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
The trunk is rather cavernous for such a small vehicle, and the rear seats fold down to allow even longer items to fit.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579245848_b82d6276ef_b
Godspeed, SpaceX crew! (Photos by my wife, Lori)
49952546783_1b1111dda2_b
Plenty of photo-op locations
44604233611_7c1abe90a1_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
31062171012_3f0e898eed_b
Charleston architecture
33292466572_d6499f1cfb_b
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
For those who might ask, that’s a Blackmagic Design ATEM Production Studio 4K in the background of the previous photo
41305965571_2944a2f33d_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
Apologies for the somewhat blurry picture here. Didn't realize it wasn't sharp until after I set up this album.
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
39448665915_2cddc9a066_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33376137506_771c7c8a1c_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580086092_270b81e59b_b
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Sugar Mill Machinery
Two examples of sugar cane crushing machinery from the mid-1800s are shown. Dunlawton Plantation used machinery similar to what is seen in the next photo, but the mill was steam powered. Spring Garden Plantation (here) was the only water-powered sugar mill in Florida.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579217448_4ac4079ae1_b
Introduction to basketweaving by Henrietta Snype
33416573595_931187082f_b
Goofy was preparing to meet guests at the park, but turned around when it began to rain
49327752106_b48fc19882_b
Famished after a long day at the mansion, we thorouthly enjoyed a late lunch at Cedric's Tavern—my sandwich was DEELISH
48721911262_a419034a11_b
My part of tree trimming is complete; Lori does the ornaments next
50650878192_d140e35f6a_b
Playing with night mode—France pavilion
49327760326_3a6a7c41e5_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
33856901076_6f47e897bc_b
Well this was definitely a project-and-a-half that I helped fabricate
43661755781_97532dec8e_b
Biltmore mansion music room
This multi-shot stitched panoroama is better quality/exposure than the next photo, but doesn't show as much of the complete room.
This was a bare/unfinished room in George Vanderbilt's time. Before it was completed in 1976 by George's descendants, it was used during World War II as a secret storage location for valuable art from the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.
North SkyDome Entrance
A bridge over a Toronto rail line, connecting Front Street with the SkyDome, was the path many Session attendees travelled when entering the SkyDome and the cafeteria. The CN Tower is also accessed from this vicinity.
Weekend video duty for 2018 Florida Pathfinder Red Zone
27499769077_ed919c32d8_b
“We Three Kings” by Florida Hospital Church Orchestra featuring violin soloist Jordan Jones
This video was an experiment. It’s a mash up of one primary video I shot of the second performance with insertions from the first performance and rehearsal. But my audio was subpar, so I synchronized the video with the house mix audio from the online streaming broadcast.
Apologies this video doesn't seem to play properly in Flickr's mobile app.
Old well found during property renovation
32604865164_1e743e7036_b
So this happened today
A few insta-impressions:
(1) LOVE the size.
(2) When can I add Dark Sky to the middle and Fantastical to the top of the Infograph Modular face?
(3) Gonna miss Time Travel. I know people seldom used it but it was great for Dark Sky forecasts.
(4) Obviously I will wear it next time I’m swimming, but coming from a Series 0, I’m paranoid!
(5) Jury is still out whether I’ll keep Digital Crown haptics enabled.
Scenery before tomorrow's storm
36735927630_6584893577_b
Good night, Florida
29612571630_d049a2b28f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579859466_18e1de1fee_b
Sunset from the Orlando Eye
30838260450_1146cb62ac_b
Sunday evening visitor
50007385457_f56f4766d4_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580453312_a4191df0c7_b
A reasonably successful first-go using a Taylor egg timer
50433307926_aca51b13a8_b
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 6
35673309680_0168e68eb3_b
Sometimes I wish Sunpass transponders were available in black
37034047210_b6d0f18531_b
Preparing to sing
49327280238_310398a0b0_b
2017 Nissan Versa SV
It's a relatively basic model, but includes a driver-side armrest (a requirement for my long-ago shoulder injury), USB and 3.5mm jacks which both carry audio, Bluetooth for phone calls and voice control (but not audio streaming), and two conveniently placed power ports—one under the dash and one between the seats which can be reached by the rear passengers.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
36088187015_8b03065b7d_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49580085787_c55780af82_b
Yummy Blaze Pizza—and I appreciate they did not make the "everyday" mistake :-)
31707858952_40a6eab94f_b
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579749186_329f271625_b
Nearing the top
30398467043_21c05b7286_b
Biltmore mansion salon
Edith Vanderbilt, George’s wife, had a love of drama throughout her life and often hosted masquerade parties and theatrical events in Biltmore House. After setting aside her plan to convert the Salon into an auditorium, Edith furnished the room as a Turkish Sitting Room, complete with Persian rugs, oversized cushions for guests to lounge on, and a draped fabric ceiling treatment that remains today.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
49579724618_e3a68a13a7_b
Visiting Peach World on the way home from S.C. was, shall we say, an experience
33425645246_1dde365f71_b
Danny and Meg ready to ride Dollywood's Wild Eagle coaster
48721730456_d39ddcd62e_b
Rolled over 200K on the Honda this evening
30213164132_3cffebbf63_b
A very tired, but very happy family
49327268158_d9379ac695_b
The Fountain of Youth
To attract tourists in the 1880s, local business owners changed the name of this property from Spring Garden to Ponce De Leon Springs. The area was advertised in northern states as a winter resort with its own Fountain of Youth, pouring out millions of gallons of "deliciously healthy" water.
In the 1950s, this site became one of Florida's many roadside attractions. Again, the Fountain of Youth was featured. It included two structures. The wall in the next photo is said to have been the location of a small fountain where visitors could drink the water. About 200 feet south (up the hill, two photos after this one), you can see the second structure with basins at different levels. This created a waterfall effect then flowed down into the fountain wall here.
