Saturday afternoon scenery at Camp Kulaqua—Prayer Place
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(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
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Birds on the nature drive
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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.
Storm approaching Sanford
This was the scene just as I was leaving Sanford. Skirted the edge of it all the way down Highway 46 home to Apopka and made it without getting dumped on. Yay!
Anniversary sunset
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Good night, Florida—and good riddance, Dorian
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Sunday sunrise
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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A mural in one of the subway stops
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Preparing to sing
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More night mode experimentation—Mexico pavilion
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Saturday afternoon scenery at Camp Kulaqua—Outdoor Chapel
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Good night, Florida
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Central Florida Zoo (aka Sanford Zoo)
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Awesome dinner prepared by my stepdaughter
After a very busy (but very good) day, it was a splendid treat to enjoy this dinner. My stepdaughter is studying culinary arts, and she plussed my idea for basic steak and baked potato into this masterpiece all with her own seasoning blend. And the she used a nondairy heavy cream to make the potato purée so my wife could also enjoy. I’d have never been able to guess there was no dairy (or gluten) on this plate! (Photo by my wife because I was too hungry and eager to snap one of my own!)
Home again home again
Originally thinking to pack up and have a little more time on the beach before leaving, we realized there simply wasn't time before our 10am checkout. Made it home and, soon after, was visited by my dad returning our dog, Chloe, who he'd been caring for during our trip.
View from the top of the observation tower
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Thankfully no appreciable damage, but you can imagine the fear when I came home yesterday to find this—and Elsa hasn’t really even arrived yet!
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Time to line up
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Peeking at another performance of Candlelight Processional, this time with Lisa Ling as the narrator
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Happy birthday, Lisa
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I was quite clear this morning that today was going to be a really long day—good night!
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford.
The giraffe pen was pitch black. Utterly shocked at how well my phone gathered light and made them visible.
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.
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
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
We went Soarin’
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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.
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
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Ark Encounter
We're inside the door!
21-year-old relic still boots up!
Sorry, at the time this photo was snapped, I had no idea if the G4 tower barely visible still boots.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Ark Encounter
Deck floor plans.
Stay anchor_d… in school so you don’t commit spelling mistakes
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Cheetahs at Central Florida Zoo
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Beach day
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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.
We reached the observation tower
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Good night, Florida
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Camera obscura
I discovered a rudimentary camera obscura at my office. The round holes in a metal shelf focus the rectangular light fixtures in the ceiling onto the paper boxes below.
Cute little Mickey ear musical Ferris wheel
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Mead Gardens scenery
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Sunday sunrise
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Home for a week
Finally settling in, we decided our condo rental was refreshing and modern, but still with a touch of the good kind of "shabby."
A beautiful Saturday afternoon at Liberty Park in Lake Mary
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Ominous weather bearing down on Central Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Sundown sky
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A very pretty day made for some very pretty landscape scenery
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Good night, Florida
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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.
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!
Thursday sunrise
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Sunday snooze session
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New office toy—HP DesignJet XL 3600 MFP
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Enjoyed assisting a family photo shoot today with this beautiful 1949 Cadillac convertible as a prop
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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"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.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Biltmore mansion walk-in refrigerator
Several rooms used early forms of mechanical refrigeration instead of iceboxes or springhouses.
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!
So…that just happened—finally cool again after a week without
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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.
Ark Encounter official photo stop—evening lit-up version
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I realize it’s coming in just a plain brown paper bag, but I know for a fact she’ll love what’s inside, and might love what’s NOT inside even more!
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Saturday afternoon scenery at Camp Kulaqua—beautiful day for a boardwalk stroll
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Cool clouds
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On ProPresenter duty again—this time, Forest Lake Academy graduation weekend
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Immortal umbrella
Four Graphics hasn't existed for many years, but I'm still friends with my rep, Debby. She gave this branded umbrella to me more than 20 years ago and it still serves me well. I've never known ANY other umbrella remain useful and undamaged after two decades!
Misc. other photos from the week—South Hall entrance
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Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
In the background, a mirror in the bathroom doorway gives a glimpse of George's paw-footed bathtub.
Misc. other photos from the week—amateur radio tower
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My view today—operating graphics and videos for my office’s business meeting
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Oh 60lb Cover weight Hammermill in 18×12 size, I have missed you sorely—welcome back to my print shop!
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Working in the dungeon
I had fixed the problem with our HDMI>Ethernet baluns and thought I was all set for this night. Alas, some of the control room equipment still didn't like the balun signal, so I had to control slides isolated in a room away from the main auditorium.
At least it was NICE and COOL in the room (mid 60s) rather than mid 70s in the auditorium!
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
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Wednesday sunrise
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Smyrna Beach was most definitely not "ew"
Screen printing mistake on this pair of beach shorts.
I Voted! (local elections—sadly not yet time to vote out DeathSantis)
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Fun with light refraction
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Waiting in the weather
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Lyonia Preserve is a scrub forest restoration area and, as such, is known for its population of Scrub Jays—one granted us a considerable time to admire before flying away
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Sister-in-law surprised her boys (surrounding still photos shot by Lori)
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Saturday sunrise
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I’ve known of the brushing scam phenomenon, but this is my first direct encounter
A brushing scam is when spammy Amazon Marketplace vendors pay for positive reviews, but a literal shipment has to be made which consist of cheap junky products. Two such very strange items came to my office—a pair of moist towelette packages and, inexplicably, a single blank crack-and-peel address label!
Top of the observation tower
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Evening sky was crazy—no, it didn’t look like this enhanced photo, but my original photo was sort of blah, so I edited it to appear as I felt while seeing in person
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Tajín takeaway
So—Blaze Pizza had a promotion recently where customers could collect a free mini bottle of Tajín seasoning (chili pepper flake with lime flavoring). I was interested in trying it, but I seldom get all the way over to Winter Park, the closest location to my work.
Generally when I get over that way, it's to pick up a paper order for the print shop. The Mac Paper outlet is not far from Blaze Pizza. Since I had to make a pickup today, and I had a discount coupon, I decided on Blaze for lunch.
I totally assumed the promotion was long since over. When I realized a manager was at the pickup counter handing out online orders, I asked him about it.
Apparently the mini bottles weren’t moving as fast as he would've liked, and the stores get some sort of credit for the number of bottles they give away. He was about to hand me a bottle from a small bag, then changed his mind and just handed me the whole bag! There were eight bottles inside (gave three to my coworker).
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.
We really know how to party at WholeLife Church Retreat
This video was shot in HDR. If you are using an HDR-compatible viewer, the YouTube copy looks vastly better: youtu.be/ZeS32RkC2eY
Beautiful sunset over Congo River
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Turkey 2022 was a success
My late mother was always the source of my holiday turkey fix. This year, my culinary school-enrolled stepdaughter stepped up and knocked it out of the park!
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Full moon stealing the show of a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch
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That moment when both pets know mommy isn’t feeling well, set aside their differences, and cuddle to give their care
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Final positioning check
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
A very tired, but very happy family
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We really need to talk about the elephant in the room
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Good night, Florida—stay safe in the storm
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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.
Misc. other photos from the week—some sort of large cake presented during the main meetings
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I readily admit this isn’t really what the sunset skies looked like; somewhat underwhelming, so I had some fun with the InstaFlash app
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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.
I wore a new dress to church; "modest is hottest" LOL
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
The Christmas storage shelves are at last back in order and put away
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ark Encounter
Dining area.
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.
Y’all, my egg-peeling game is getting strong (and they were perfectly cooked, too)
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Wednesday sunrise
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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!"
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Mead Gardens scenery
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Biltmore mansion official photo stop—Winter Garden version
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Mom, she’s laying in my space again!
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Sunday, the day after the anniversary party, our immediate family drove back to Pigeon Forge for a trip to Dollywood
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Celebrating my mother-in-law’s birthday WHOOOOO happens to love owls—what a hoot!
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Ark Encounter official photo stop—daytime angle version
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If someone ever tells you the print industry doesn’t require math, they are LYING
You will win MAJOR kudos if you can decipher what I was doing here.
Saganaki—flamed cheese
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Playing with night mode—Mexico pavilion
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Biltmore mansion official photo stop—garden version
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I suppose Pandora’s proofreader wasn’t paid in full
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Playing with night mode—France pavilion
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Ark Encounter
Kitchen.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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?
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.
Looks like a region of relatively young trees
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Playing with night mode—UK pavilion
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Good morning, Florida
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“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.
…with my sweetie
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
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.
Sunday sunrise
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Dad picked me up from college today and handed me breakfast
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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.
Good night, Florida
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Today just keeps on giving
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Alfond Inn lobby, leading to conservatory
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
First beach day
A lot of Tuesday was spent sleeping in and getting odds and ends in order, including some shopping trips. Didn't get down to the beach until later in the afternoon, by which time I was able to sit in the shade of the seawall without needing the beach umbrella.
Good night, Florida
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Thanksgiving dinner isn’t over till the pumpkin pie comes out
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Good night, Florida
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Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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.
A heavily Christmas-decorated home near Kit Land Nelson Park
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CN Tower
There aren't many outdoor locations in downtown Toronto where the CN Tower doesn't make its presence known.
Family meetup
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I cracked our last five eggs to scramble for Lori and Adri; the last one was a twin—something I’ve never before encountered with eggs!
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Documenting Hurricane Ian’s passing
I’m truly astonished my Ring doorbell camera kept capturing images during the time I lost power. Never realized it would buffer the interval snapshots until WiFi was restored so it could upload them. Clearly the device’s battery lasts at least 13 hours which was the duration I had lost power.
It may have looked like smoke from a catastrophic fire, but it really was just clouds
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Finally enjoying a taste of the Christmas gift from my bro- and sis-in-law; wow, this stuff tastes wonderful!
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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.
Candlelight Processional group photo upon arrival at the rehearsal area
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Bald eagle at Central Florida Zoo
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Waiting for our table
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Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
Loads of fun at today’s office Christmas party, in spite of now being thoroughly sore and exhausted from A/V duty
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Time to line up
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Family and guests visiting at the barn venue during rehearsal the day before the event
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Saturday sunset selfie
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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.
Cute marketing tchotchke—a mini pallet full of sticky notes
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Obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
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WLC SNL Host Stevie pays the consequences of losing the game
I smell a rigged game—Stevie was always the one who'd lose his hair.
This video was shot in HDR. If you are using an HDR-compatible viewer, the YouTube copy looks vastly better: youtu.be/zE1FkJTie2U
Sunday sunrise
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
May as well be brain surgery
Techs have been trying to re-integrate a tri-fold module into this copier that was removed 5+ years ago and added to a different copier, and now needs to go back into this one. But this machine won’t talk to it any more and the techs are all stumped. Best theory is an obscure cable got damaged in the last transfer, which means they have to trace all of them to find it.
At least the copier still works when the module is removed, and it’s not mission critical to have it installed. So I’m glad to be able to allow the time the techs need to thoroughly troubleshoot.
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.
Hyperlapse of the varied trail terrain
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Super bright rainbow
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Scootin' around
Session attendees got used to a lot of walking. John Duroe, Southern Asia-Pacific Division communication director, found a better way.
Apparently Karl the Fog was visiting Florida again today
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ark Encounter
Japheth and Rayneh.
Alfond Inn architecture
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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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Good morning, Florida (actually this shot was from Wednesday—I just forgot to post it)
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Second of three geocaches found—“Too easy to get stumped”
www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC98NNP_too-easy-to-get-stumped
Besides enjoying the vastly improved remote of the 6th generation Apple TV, I no longer have to switch to Samsung TV apps to watch 4K UHD, and the 4th generation box will be relocated upstairs
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Yes, as a matter of fact I do take milk in my tea, Earl Grey, hot!
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Family Fun at TopGolf
Yeah yeah yeah, horrible form. You pros in the peanut gallery just hush. It was my very first time. But we had loads of fun and I made a couple drives well beyond 100 yards!
Y’all are just a bunch of turkeys!
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Nifty projection mapping demo seen at InfoComm 2015
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Lyonia Preserve is a scrub forest restoration area and, as such, is known for its population of Scrub Jays—one granted us a considerable time to admire before flying away
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"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 laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
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.
Giraffe at Central Florida Zoo
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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.
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.
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!
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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.
Alfond Inn conservatory where the baby shower was held
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Biltmore mansion kitchen storage
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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.
Biltmore Gardens Railway video
90 seconds of miniature railway footage.
"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.
Hitchhiker
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Ever wonder how you get custom-sized pieces printed multiple-up on a large sheet with ink bleeding to the edge?
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Sunday sunrise
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Step one of voting #DeathSantis out of office
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Caution resulted in 21 months of online worship services—happy to be at the church once again
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50,000 miles in just two years and 19 days—whew!
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Scrub Jay Wings of the West
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OH MY GOODNESS I've never had filet mignon before—this was paired with a bit of turkey and perfectly cooked/seasoned carrots atop smooth mashed potatoes with a cream sauce—NOMNOMNOM!
I was so excited about this meal, I forgot to snap my own photo, so my wife, Lori, allowed me to use hers.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
RIP Mophie hip/belt phone holster—you gave almost a decade of faithful service
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Fun art installation in the skylight dome of the conservatory
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Wednesday sunrise
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Visited by a beautiful pileated woodpecker as I was leaving the office for lunch today
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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.
Boys on the trail
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One of the 22 gators we spotted
Close-up of the gator from the previous photo.
"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.
Having a splendid day trip for church retreat weekend
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Bridge fun
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Family pose
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Before and after
One of the most satisfying parts of my job is when I can take an existing item produced in house for one of my office’s departments and dramatically improve it. (Please tell me you can see the difference!)
Happy Thanksgiving from the Bennett/Bixby/Myers family
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My Ring doorbell said they could leave a message, so this is the message my stepdaughter’s best friend left for me - LOL
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dolphin sighting
Any time I spend more than just a couple hours on Florida's east coast, my hope is to spot at least one dolphin. I was not disappointed this time.
Bridge fun
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A few days later, returning to Epcot for a full day of fun
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Paper shortages are real, y’all—a job tomorrow will basically use up what’s left here, then I simply can no longer do full bleed 8.5x11 booklets
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Another 1,000+ copy impressions today
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Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Neighborhood stepping up tonight from all directions
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Today is my office’s annual clean up/clean out day—sadly, I didn’t get a “before” picture, but happy to have finally eliminated all the clutter that had accumulated on my main production work table
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Misc. other photos from the week—puppet ministry
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ark Encounter official photo stop—ramp to door version
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I have been driving for 37 years; marking today as the first time I’ve had to crawl over to the driver seat from the passenger side because some doofus parked only about 12 inches from the driver side door
I’m just glad I had the van instead of my car—not sure I could’ve gotten across the car’s center console.
Both Spectrum Music Choice and Pandora have kinda been off their spelling game lately
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Tomorrow
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Sunday sunrise
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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.
Good night, Florida
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HMCS Toronto in port, seen from CN Tower
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Congrats to my nephew, Riley Alexander Bennett, on his high school graduation!
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
This looks familiar; maybe I should switch lanes
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I usually forget to use portrait mode, but I remembered this time
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Red sky at morning…
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Seems like it’s been a long while since I’ve seen a thick foggy morning
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Mary Poppins also made an appearance
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Thursday sunrise
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ark Encounter
Noah's prayer.
Photos simply had no prayer of depicting just how insanely vibrant a shade of chartreuse adorned this car
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
"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 night, Florida #NoFilter
Anyone who knows me is aware I virtually never post a photo on which I’ve done no color correction or tweaks of any kind. This post is a rare exception.
Asian Lantern Festival at Sanford Zoo, December 11, 2021
Video and photos captured at the Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
If you have HDR-capable technology, I strongly recommend using that equipment to watch the YouTube version in HDR.
Some played…some observed…all fun for continued celebration of Maddox’ 7th birthday
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Eric and Adri enjoy the view
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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.
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.
Sunday evening visitor
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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
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Toronto had a very nice, clean subway system
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This is my scene for the day—production for agapeconference.org (hopefully emcee Darren is cool with the photo swipe!)
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Crocodile at Central Florida Zoo
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Whopper of a storm raced me home to Apopka from the west as I approached from the east—the storm won
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Time to robe-up
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Sunday sunrise
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Downtown Community 2.0—acoustic edition
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Milestone odometer reached on my car
Yes, the image is cleaned up in Photoshop because there was dust all over the plastic cover and a bit of camera shake blur. But no, I did NOT edit the numbers to create 88888.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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Lucky mileage
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Good morning, Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Good night, Florida
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Managing ProPresenter for a Women’s Ministries One-day Retreat
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
One of the 22 gators we spotted
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Birds on the nature drive
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"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 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.
A very pretty day made for some very pretty landscape scenery
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Monday morning vibes—it’s been a minute since I’ve dug out my 60s/70s/80s playlist
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
If you ever hear me say I have to move a ton of paper, please believe me when I say I am really not exaggerating
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Good night, Florida
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Deviled eggs redux—mixed in a little salt as I should have done the first time, and had access to smoked paprika; YUMMO
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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.
I’m not especially fond of dried berries, so I was amused—not annoyed—that this otherwise tasty snack literally only contained three blueberries
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Good morning, Florida
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Biltmore mansion master bedroom hallway
This hallway connects George and Edith's bedrooms along with the sitting room between the two bedrooms.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Thursday sunrise
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Ark Encounter
Feeding large animals.
Biltmore mansion entrance hall
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That’s a wrap—celebrating completion at Applebee’s!
Marathon travel to eight locations all around the state for regional meetings is complete and a success. Thanks to Abdiel for treating staff to a late night dinner.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Panorama of the approach walkway to Ark Encounter
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Butterfly pose at Central Florida Zoo
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities drying room
Some of the damp laundry was dried indoors draped over rolling racks warmed by heating elements.
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.
Rehearsal day at the Barnett ranch in Sweetwater, TN, for the Hunt's 50th anniversary party and vow renewal ceremony
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Trail scenery
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I may not be fond of mandatory equipment upgrades, but I want to keep my Spectrum internet alive—and the new box is admittedly tiny and cute
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A van full of audio and lighting tech for coworker friend’s wedding reception tomorrow
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Wednesday sunrise
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Real tacos, real beauty
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Canoers on the peaceful Santa Fe River
Playing with iOS Cinematic mode with a handheld attempt at faking a crane move shot.
This video was shot in HDR. If you are using an HDR-compatible viewer, the YouTube copy looks vastly better: https://youtu.be/OC8H1XPINFw
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.")
My part of tree trimming is complete; Lori does the ornaments next
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iPhone 13 Pro in da house!
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Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
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GCTV production
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Will you permit me to boast for just a second on my packaging tape box-cornering skill?
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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!
Thursday sunrise
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Cuckoo clocks in the Germany pavilion
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Arrived this morning to discover the Extron input scaler having a conniption, so we had to improvise
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
Alfond Inn central courtyard
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Merry Christmas from the Bennetts/Bixbys/Myers
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Lyonia Preserve is a scrub forest restoration area and, as such, is known for its population of Scrub Jays—one granted us a considerable time to admire before flying away
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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.
Hole 17
If you know us, you know the number 17 is very meaningful to us.
Parmesan-crusted baked chicken and boiled yellow baby potatoes—nom nom
Last time I made this chicken was five years ago. It tasted great but appearance was unappealing. I know what I did wrong then and didn’t repeat the mistake this time. Deelish!
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Major thunderstorm rolling through
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Time-lapse clip walking back to parking area
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Ark Encounter
Welcome.
New Smyrna Island
Funny, but unintentional—my panorama shot made the beach look like an island!
Ice cream solves everything
It must be true. It's right there on a neon sign!
"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.
CN Tower glass floor
…an attraction that is not for the faint of heart.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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A very pretty day made for some very pretty landscape scenery
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Backlit cloud looks like a massive electricity arc
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Alfond Inn architecture
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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 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
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My parents visited today for Christmas gift exchange, a little help updating outdoor light fixtures, and yummy lunch
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HAIL!
Very possibly the heaviest hail I’ve ever personally encountered.
Peaceful ending
The reunited furballs wasted no time settling right back into their routines and enjoyed some couch cuddles.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
My wife, her sister, and their mother took a trip to Texas, so we guys got together for Saturday lunch
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Two of the awesomest stepkids you’ll find anywhere
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Good night, Florida
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North Hall seen from CN Tower
The North Hall was primarily used as a mass cafeteria during the Session.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Various family members with various travel plans translate to our family Christmas happening tonight instead of next weekend
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Astonishingly, this nasty weather scooted past Apopka without a drop of rain in my area
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
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.
Entrance to Biltmore Winery
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OPAAAAA!!!
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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6lla de Flora
Cleaning out my photo roll and found this five-year-old sign with a typo I’d forgotten about—a mistake capital “I” at Orlando’s Gaylord Palms Resort.
I love Moe’s, and I love Chipotle, but Qdoba is just *chef’s kiss* (opinion authenticated by virtue of having eaten at all three this week)
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Bought a humidifier to ease wife’s Covid-induced congestion—seems to be doing its job!
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Sunday, July 2—Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Finishing the evening with family dinner at Tijuana Flats
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Marvelous rainbow last night
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Good night, Florida
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Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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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.
Good morning, Florida—time to get back to work
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Rhinoceros at Central Florida Zoo
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This is why you want a square-fold feature when you print booklets
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Sunday sunrise surrounded by structure
I waited till the end of this album to admit, I was absolutely bombarded with no-see-ums during the week. Not so much during the day while on the beach, but they are particularly bad at dawn and dusk. For this last sunrise of the trip, I shot from the top of a stairwell instead. Though diminished, several of these biting nuisances still found me up here!
Candlelight Processional group photo at the church before leaving
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Bridge fun
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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"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.
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!
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Florida skies this morning
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Good night, Florida
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Good morning, Florida
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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!"
Christmas Eve stroll through Kit Land Nelson Park in Apopka
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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A very pretty day made for some very pretty landscape scenery
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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.
Ark Encounter
Three types of lighting.
Biltmore Gardens Railway
There were several different separate railways throughout the greenhouses.
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.
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.
Parting singer group shot
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Perfect timing
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Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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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.
Playing with night mode—Canada pavilion
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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.
Good night, Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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GCTV production
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Ark Encounter
Ark size and shape.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Anniversary day on the beach
In spite of the heat advisories, there was a blatant difference in temperature under any kind of shade, and the sea breeze made it tolerable.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Celebrating Meg’s dual high school/college AA graduation
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Good night, Florida
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Nothing left but a memory
Spent the majority of a 22-year span of time in the building that used to occupy this lot. For the last few years, it was piled up with construction equipment for the I-4 expansion project. But that’s all gone as well. Now to find out who buys the lot from D.O.T. and what new business goes in.
One of the 22 gators we spotted
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This year’s Thanksgiving table
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Obligatory park selfie at Central Florida Zoo
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Thursday sunset
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Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
Lori captured Lisa, Danny, Meg, and me on the the Dollywood Mystery Mine ride
Didn’t observe any appreciable damage in my neighborhood except for two large trees down and a third losing a major limb; all three in the park and didn’t hit any buildings—literally missed smashing a picnic table by two inches!
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Celebrating 10 years
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Third of three geocaches found—“Moss Haven”
www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC98NJY_moss-haven
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
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More night mode experimentation—character greet facility at Norway pavilion
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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.
Ark Encounter
Ventilation.
Post-zoo lunch with more family at Cheddar's
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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.
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
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Views of Biltmore Gardens
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Biltmore mansion servant dining room
Between 30-35 servants ate three meals per day in this room.
This many members of our family coming together is a rare treat—I just wish the reason for the gathering wasn’t because an important person is missing
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First of three geocaches found—“Got Moss?”
www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC98NJ9_got-moss
Z88.3 radio has a splendid beginner geocache perfect for introducing someone new to the game—the cache code to search is GC7TGTE
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Congo River Jeep
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Biltmore mansion bowling alley
The house featured one of the nation's first bowling alleys instealled in a private residence.
Newly remodeled Altamonte Apple Store is SWEET
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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.
Good morning, Florida
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Real iPads, real beauty
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A very pretty day made for some very pretty landscape scenery
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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).
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
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.
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.
Chloe and Xander wish you a Merry Christmas
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
It's install day for our new production copier with an awesome new booklet finisher
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Random birthday celebration—just because
So apparently my stepdaughter found this musician named Clem Turner she likes and found out he turns 20 this month. Just for no real reason, she made her own version of a Carvel-style ice cream cake in celebration. (The cake was good.)
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall
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Waiting in the green room tent
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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.
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.
Birds on the nature drive
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Chaperone meeting
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Xander's vacation
First stop, Pet Paradise Resort where Xander spent the week while we traveled.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
There was just a little bit of a theme to this year’s Christmas
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Black Jeep of the family
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Crap, I’m old
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Family in the Biltmore Gardens greenhouses
It was wonderful that my parents could join us for this portion of our trip.
Have blanket, will lay on it
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Obligatory Thanksgiving family photo
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Ark Encounter
Twelve Stones Monument.
Giraffe at Central Florida Zoo
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Giraffe at Central Florida Zoo
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Well-stocked once again
It’s a wonderful thing to have these shelves filled again with plenty of paper that is somewhat still scarce. And as for my favorite 12″×18″ Hammermill 60lb. cover weight sheets which is still very hard to find and that I normally only buy 3–4 cases at a time, my vendor found me an entire pallet that I got approval to buy—so I currently have more than 35,000 sheets of it!
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration—we had a yummy lunch at Hunter's Cafe
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I hope Friday night’s weather isn’t a foretaste of the entire weekend
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Falcon 9 launch—2X speed
We watched the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch early Friday morning, 1:17am. The rocket deployed 22 Starling internet satellites.
Disclosure: the rocket was visible for approximately two minutes. For this video, it kinda dragged on, so I exported it at double speed and added some nebulous spacey music.
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.
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
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Odometer fun
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SkyDome seen from CN Tower
Looking down on the SkyDome where the GC Session business meetings and the evening mission pageants are held.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Birds on the nature drive
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Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Sampling a few of Biltmore's wines
We ended up purchasing a bottle of dry rosé and Century™ Sweet Red which tastes amazing
Meg looks for a drink at Central Florida Zoo
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Not bad for an iPhone Night Mode shot of the Jupiter/Saturn Christmas Star
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Black bears at Central Florida Zoo
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Lori's selfie shots weren't turning out—night mode to the rescue!
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Oh nothing, just printing 14 *thousand* flyers to be distributed around the state
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Anhinga at Mead Gardens
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Seven floors up in Lake Ivanhoe district looking toward AdventHealth Orlando and beyond
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Entering the Lyonia Preserve
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Local public elementary school teachers did a drive-by parade through neighboring communities for their students staying at home
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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.
Vacation Cross Connection
In planning our June 2019 vacation, it was fascinating to realize all our destinations collectively formed the shape of a cross.
One of the 22 gators we spotted
If you can't find the gator in this photo, see the next photo.
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
☯️
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Anybody remember doing this? (I miss FireWire Target Disk Mode)
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
George's grand walnut bed.
Biltmore mansion detail
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Good night, Florida (iPhone 11 Pro night mode continues to amaze—this photo was captured at 9:45pm)
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We created a Mandalorian battle scene on top of my nephew’s birthday cake
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Thank you, BJ’s Wholesale, for the gas price break!
Most gas in my area right now is between 3.89 and 4.09. BJ’s Clermont was already good at 3.77. Offer for this month is 50¢ off per gallon after $100+ purchase in the store (which I needed anyway). 3.27 per gallon is great!
Trail scenery
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Trail scenery
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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.
A beautiful day in the neighborhood
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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 ☄️
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Biltmore Gardens Railway
Part of the railway miniature ran past an amazing scale model of the mansion.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Trail scenery
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"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.
Working smarter, not harder (see Flickr description)
For nearly 4½ years, I've unloaded one or two dozen cases of copier paper every couple months into the niche where I store them.
Inspiration struck today when I suddenly realized I could simply drop the entire pallet into the niche!
Granted, I had to slide the entire production copier to the left about 12 inches to give enough clearance for the pallet jack to make the 90° turn, but it works!
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.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Biltmore mansion library
George's collection ranges from American and English literature to history, religion, philosophy, art, and architecture.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Shuffleboard game
I truly have no clue the last time I played. Took a while to remember it takes a lot less force than you think to slide the pucks to the opposite side.
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!)
LEGO challenge—build something you think is at least 100 years old
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Biltmore mansion upper floor hallway
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"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.
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.
Pure unfiltered rottenness
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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.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Thursday sunrise
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Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
How it started…how it’s going
My preferred paper is still suffering shortages. I HATE the brand I’m having to use as an alternative. Constantly jams.
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.
Biltmore mansion kitchen pantry
Both electric and manual dumbwaiters raised trays of food to the butler's pantry and floors above.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Lavender in Biltmore Gardens
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Ark Encounter
Retrieving the dove with an olive branch.
When your ceiling tile installer doesn’t math out the geometry quite right and has to cut a nickel-sized piece of tile to fill a hole!
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Hurricane Ian will not have “passed” in the “past” — that won’t happen until the future
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Good morning, Florida
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Biltmore mansion gun room
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Time for the >6-hour monthly prison ministry newsletter job
Meanwhile, the other production copier is running 11,500 men's ministry certification cruise flyers!
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!
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Saturday sunset
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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.
Sunday sunrise
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Other than the fact I don’t have any paprika, my first go at making deviled eggs was a success
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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.
Peeps driving Twinkie race cars
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
A hole opened in the storm at the perfect time to get from the store to the car
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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.
Time again for the annual Myers Easter Egg hunt
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Masked friends
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Marvelous rainbow last night
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Good night, Florida
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First time encounter with this flavor—my new Favorite Thing™ of the moment
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Millennium Falcon Rice Krispie dessert (yes, the antenna was the first piece to be removed)
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Home for three of the four nights of the South Florida schedule of regional pre-session meetings of our constituency session
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One of the 22 gators we spotted
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Eric and Adri were tired
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Let’s Play Blokus!
A few of my wife’s photos followed by a time-lapse recording of our game.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Pastitsio
I chose this dish that is something like a Greek lasagna, but it's described as, "Famous casserole of ziti, ground beef, Romano cheese and baked with a creamy sauce." It came with rice pilaf, a wedge of Greek-style potato, and peas which, in spite of probably coming from a can, had a very enjoyable seasoning.
Good night, Florida
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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.
Biltmore mansion official photo stop
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Porcupine at Central Florida Zoo
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I have spoken!
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If you knew my mom and happen to be near my office, you’re welcome to stop by and receive a little gift treat and a copy of her life sketch and program booklet from this weekend’s memorial service
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Biltmore mansion smoking room
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Tell me you can hear this photo—Happy New Year
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Biltmore mansion canning pantry
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Ark Encounter
Space utilization.
Beach panorama
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
City trolley—among the more unique forms of Toronto transportation
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Not all family members were quite in the mood for a group selfie
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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I’ve been honing my digital menu board design skills—consolidated to 2-column layout which opened up a LOT of space for more content including a new photo carousel
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
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.
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.
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.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Our destination…
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"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.
A reasonably successful first-go using a Taylor egg timer
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Stormy afternoon
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Sunday sunrise
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Grits and fried eggs, seasoned with black pepper and pink Himalayan salt—both freshly ground, of course! YUM
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Good night, Florida
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Tarantula at Central Florida Zoo
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Went outside to enjoy the brilliant sunset colors and could hardly stand the deafening cicadas
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Checking out the UK pavilion
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Church member was showing off his funky socks
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Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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Just because it doesn’t snow in Florida doesn’t mean we don’t sometimes have to shovel our sidewalks!
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Goofy was preparing to meet guests at the park, but turned around when it began to rain
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Sunday sunrise
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Meg learns about phone booths
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Thursday sunrise
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Ark Encounter
Shem and Ar'yel.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Long overdue arborcide
Five-minute interval snapshots from my doorbell camera showing significant lifting and thinning of my front yard trees and removing the trunk of a deceased palm.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Sprinkle of Spook Concert
Of the 10 selections in this Apopka High School Orchestra concert, the first three were performed by the Primo Orchestra which included Adri and her first time performing on cello.
Good morning, Florida
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall
Looking the opposite direction toward the organ loft.
Good night, Florida
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A little sightseeing after the show, trying out iPhone 11 Pro night mode in the Germany pavilion
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Celebrating birthdays with a chocolate LEGO cake
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Taking aim
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Saturday sunrise
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Moonshot
Glimpsing the pink/full/super moon.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Whew—today is going to be a day
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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.
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).
CN Tower glass floor
One of the most unique attractions of the CN Tower is its glass floor…
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Obligatory group selfie
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Local public elementary school teachers did a drive-by parade through neighboring communities for their students staying at home
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Holiday lights forming the City of Apopka logo set up at Kit Land Nelson Park
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A list of good reasons to come here is very short, but at least the place is photogenic
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Farewell to the two-decade legacy that was iPod
My 5th-generation iPod battery will never hold a charge again, but when plugged in, it still works just fine. I also still have my 3rd-generation iPod in a storage box, but it has refused to boot up even while plugged in for many years now.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Saturday afternoon scenery at Camp Kulaqua—King Chapel
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Celebrating Meg's graduation—three minutes of relevant clips made from the two-hour livestream
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Downtown Toronto seen from CN Tower
Probably the best vantage point of downtown Toronto you'll find.
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
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
South Hall seen from CN Tower
The South Hall, entirely underground, was the location of the Adventist Book Center and the exhibit hall.
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.
Arrival
Columbia Union College chartered its bus for guests arriving at Session—a quick photo shows it blending in with the local landmarks.
Eric and Adri were tired
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At last joining the ranks of Ollie solidarity
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Friday evening storm
The radar made it seem like this rain was headed straight for us, but ultimately only passed to the north. Another storm cell, however, did cause a downpour during the night after we'd gone to bed.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Mason’s a goner but Maddox will exact his revenge
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Didn’t realize another rocket was going up this morning so soon after the Falcon Heavy, but there it was, on my way to work—kudos SpaceX team, but not to Space Karen!
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Trail map—we took the blue pill…er, I mean the blue trail
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Well okay, just so long as the desire is not for a führer
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Holiday illumination on trees at Apopka’s Kit Land Nelson Park
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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.
Good night, Florida
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Calling grandma
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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.
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.
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
Lyonia Preserve is a scrub forest restoration area and, as such, is known for its population of Scrub Jays—one granted us a considerable time to admire before flying away
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Thursday sunrise
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Time to line up
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Woohoo—congrats, Bucs!
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Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
The scenery at the spot I found to wait for my wife’s 1½-hour appointment does not suck
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More iPhone 11 Pro experimentation, using the super wide angle lens on this koi pond in the Japan pavilion after a tasty lunch
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Blanket buddies
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Mom is gone, passed this morning—came to Tampa house and later saw this on the dining room table; I can’t even
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Wednesday sunrise
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Ark Encounter
Water and waste technology.
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.
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.
Alfond Inn lobby
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Airport dropoff scenery
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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.
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
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
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
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Giraffes at Central Florida Zoo
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This photo doesn't even start to properly depict the deep blue of this evening
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Wood damage
I’m starting to love the iPhone 13 Pro macro feature. Might be a lot of these in the future. This shot is the busted end of my wooden paper jogger that accidentally caught the blade of the hydraulic bulk cutter. (If you want to see what the jogger tool is for, see this video: flic.kr/p/2m8uj1x )
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Moongazing
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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.
Good night, Florida
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404 error: fossil fuel not found
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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.
Four family members, one chair
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Welcome to adulthood, Meg
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Parting singer group shot
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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.
Good night, Florida
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Trail scenery
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Hangin’ out up on the shelf while the kiddos slice some ice
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Good night, Florida (actually this was last night, but hey)
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It was SMOL!
Oh goodness, I found my old iPhone 3G and it still works! Granted it was last used by my wife after I got the iPhone 4, but such memories! It was SO TINY!
Biltmore mansion vegetable pantry
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Good night, Florida
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Merry Christmas from the Bennett/Bixby/Luck households
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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.
Local ice cream shop
Cool Treats for NSB was in the shopping plaza across the street from our condo. The hand-make all their own ice cream. I had delicious salted caramel and Lori had a dairy-free chocolate chip that she said was perfect.
"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.
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.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Ark Encounter
Creation vs. evolution.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Famished after a long day at the mansion, we thorouthly enjoyed a late lunch at Cedric's Tavern—my sandwich was DEELISH
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Biltmore mansion gun room
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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
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Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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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.
Weather didn’t give us a pretty sunset, and this photo is dramatically processed, but we still enjoyed a very nice window table overlooking the bay
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Christmas gift from the church—choice of dark, milk, or white chocolate-covered pretzel sticks
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Enjoying the treat!
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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The shot from the official Dazzling Nights kiosk
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Visited mom and her parents today
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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.
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.
Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for small animals.
Allow me to introduce our spiffy new SDD full bleed booklet trimmer and square fold finisher—it’s SO awesome!
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My nights this week #MyTreasuredVBS
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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.
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.
Happiness is family sharing a dozen different flavors of ice cream
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Good morning, Florida
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One of the 22 gators we spotted
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Trimming the "fat"
Butchers may be skilled at trimming fat from meat—I am skilled at trimming excess laminate from hundreds of cards.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Meg gets her sugar fix
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A rare moment of peace, harmony, and tranquility
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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My sister-in-law found an addictive little game in the Marshall’s clearance section—Shut the Box
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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I would tell you to not be a dummy, but even dummies know how to do social distancing—what’s your excuse?
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Sharps and flats
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore mansion entrance hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
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30-year recognition
Today, in addition to the expected 30-year pin and certificate, it was a surprise that 30 years was the threshold at which they also handed out fancy little glass awards. Yay me!
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Video and photos captured at Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens.
If you have HDR-capable technology, I strongly recommend using that equipment to watch the YouTube version in HDR.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Congrats, SpaceX team
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My first attempt at the helicopter meme
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Adri being silly in 2015 to demonstrate new iPhone Live Photos
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Ever since I landed on what I deem perfect steps for cooking them, baked potatoes have become a delicious frequent occurrence—sometimes accompanied by yummy chili with beans
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Impressive thunderhead building over Orlando
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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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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"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.
Rusty Pelican restaurant entrance
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Not the worst hotel room view :-)
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Figment went upside down (the only night mode shot on the moving ride that turned out well)
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Commence sand, salt, pollen eradication
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Spine-printing success (mostly)
Ever since my office acquired the booklet finisher, I’ve wanted to experiment with printing specifically on the square folded spine portion. Finally got the chance to do that today. It’s not perfect alignment, and the designer didn’t account for where the staples would go, but overall not bad at all.
Took a detour past the hospital where I was born
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"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 pastry kitchen
The chef used this kitchen to make elaborate desserts, protected from the heat of the other two kitchens.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Made-from-scratch banana bread fresh out of the oven
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The gang's all ready
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Thursday sunrise
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I officially no longer have to avoid spoilers!
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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.
Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 2.
Florida afternoon skies
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Japanese drum demonstration
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Good night, Florida
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Birds on the nature drive
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For Halloween supper, my stepdaughter made Mummy Meatloaf
For the record, I generally enjoy meatloaf, and hers was really good. Who knew cayenne pepper works REALLY well in meatloaf! Oh, the bandages were cut from puff pastry sheets and the eyes were green olives.
Mary Poppins also made an appearance
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"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.
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.
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Had the opportunity to hold an original 1st generation iPhone for the first time in probably more than 10 years—wow I forgot how small they were!
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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.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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.
Monday afternoon arrival
We intended to leave home and arrive close to the 4pm checkin time. I had a small bit of work at the office that took much longer due to a coworker's home emergency preventing him from taking over my task. Thus, it was more like 7pm that we made it to our destination.
Preparing to sing
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Bear encounter
Around 11:30pm, I opened my front door to take my dog out to do her business and immediately saw this big fella sitting on the sidewalk just several yards away. Then a car went by and he got up and trotted away.
Good night, Florida
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Views of Biltmore Gardens
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Condo courtyard
Our unit overlooked a beautifully landscaped courtyard. Unfortunately, it was just too hot to make use of the seating area at the end of the boardwalk.
Ark Encounter
Inside looking at the bow.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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YinYang
If a white cat crosses the path, does it cancel out a black cat previously crossing the path?
The art in the skylight dome made for colorful patterns as the sun shone through them to the floor
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Good night, Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Happy 2nd Christmas
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion dressing room
Plenty of space for changing into bathing costumes, adjacent to the indoor pool.
Moonfall
When a video doorbell timelapse recording makes the overnight setting moon look like a fireball/meteor descending upon your neighbor’s house.
Good night, Florida
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Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
The Barnett ranch is a beautiful property with scenic views
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It’s unboxing day!
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Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
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Excursion to Daytona Beach for putt golf
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Good night, Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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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.
Good night, Florida
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Trail entrance at Lake Jesup Conservation Area
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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.
"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.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
Salted caramel pretzel—YUM
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Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for large animals.
Got my inner Nerf War on today during my nephew’s 7th birthday party (photos by Lori)
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Picked up a few new geocaches today with the nephews
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Monday sunset
Spent a little time at dusk on the beach.
Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Birds on the nature drive
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Ark Encounter
Scale model.
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.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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My and my dad’s birthdays (5th and 11th) are close enough to Independence Day that our parties tend to lean on that theme
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Godspeed, SpaceX crew! (Photos by my wife, Lori)
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Welcome to my weekend—video services for Women’s Ministries Annual Retreat #DareToShare2020
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
The dog strong-armed her way into her favorite spot, and I can’t tell if the cat is enjoying the snuggle and the pillow, or if he’s about to unleash terror
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Human, stay
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Sunday sunrise
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Anniversary lunch
A wonderful midweek treat of a meal for our 13th anniversary.
In spite of grieving the loss of my mother last Wednesday, Lori, the girls, and I enjoyed Father’s Day lunch at BJ’s with my dad who’s staying at my house the next two nights
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Mac Mini Unboxing
Apple understands product packaging better than *any* other business. Fight me.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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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.
Thursday sunset
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Dad, brother, wife, and me after a wonderful meal at Rusty Pelican
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Favorite gas station (for now)
In spite of having numerous pumps that work VERY slowly (I can confirm pump 8 speed is good), and a horrible color to the overhead lighting (this photo is color corrected), this BP is my preferred place to get gas because they're always a day or two delayed in hiking prices after everyone else has jumped (e.g. about a 25¢ hike last night). And yet they don't really delay at all in reducing prices when everyone else comes down.
Technology success story
After I left the communication department in 2017, I no longer had my 1-2 visits quarterly to the magazine mail service way down in south Orlando which I would often use as an excuse to have lunch at one of my favorite restaurants located nearby.
Upon helping another department use this mail service this week, I offered to drive the postage checks down to the location and, of course, enjoy the restaurant for the first time since October 2019.
I got all the way down here and was suddenly brokenhearted to realize I had taken the work truck and mistakenly left my wallet in my car back in Altamonte Springs. :-( And the restaurant unfortunately doesn’t accept Apple Pay.
BUT—there’s a Bank of America diagonally across the street, and nearly all BoA ATMs now let you use an Apple Pay device instead of your debit card.
A quick $20 withdrawal, and I’m now enjoying a helping of the best beef brisket in Orlando! (Sorry, 4 Rivers, Cecil’s has you beat, no contest.)
One of the 22 gators we spotted
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The recyclable aftermath of trimming bleed from more than 500 booklets
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Stormy evening
I don't remember the rain ever reaching us, but I used the opportunity to take some artful license with filters to create this shot.
Obligatory group photo
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore Gardens Railway
Model train passing in front of the mansion scale model.
Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
#LeavesForDays #StraightOuttaMyYard
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A triumphant and delicious return to Central Florida, extra special because Lori, Meg, and Adri all could come too—we made the excursion to Clermont to partake of Fazoli’s!
Super extra special because our table number was 17 which has significant meaning to Lori and me.
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.
My younger stepdaughter made a latte—she’s not especially fond of coffee, but enjoys the process of making things in the kitchen
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Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
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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.
Good night, Florida
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GCTV production
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
One of the 22 gators we spotted
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Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
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Awesome storm clouds drifting by in a time-lapse video
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Pre-sunset show
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Cool shadow streaks from the setting sun
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Hangin’ with the local wildlife at my office
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Revel Artist painting in Altamonte Mall
Came across this painting in the center of Altamonte mall today. I have been at a few events that arranged to have RevelArtist.com as a guest and watched him live in action. Amazing talent.
Biltmore mansion breakfast room
Grainy and poorly exposed, my panorama shot of this dark room gives a glimpse of the elaborately decorative ceiling.
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.
Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
Nice day for a trail walk
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Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, December 18, 2021
As I always say, obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
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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!)
Danny and Meg ready to ride Dollywood's Wild Eagle coaster
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
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?
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Wrapping up a celebration day for four July birthdays (plus two more in absentia)
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Adventist Review temporary office
The Review published daily issues during the session. Passers-by could view the production room in the exhibition hall.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Birds on the nature drive
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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
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Thursday, June 29—countless flags adorned the Session main stage
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Leopard at Central Florida Zoo
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Sabbath morning bliss with a sofa full of blankets and fur-babies
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Sunday sunrise
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Asian Lantern Festival
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford
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
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My wife and I labored on Labor Day, getting our garage straightened up sufficiently to bring the car inside for protection during Hurricane Dorian
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Good night, Florida
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Condo property
This panorama includes a bit of the the courtyard area from the prior photo, adding the oceanfront pool and beach beyond.
In case you ever wondered what my LEAST favorite task is at my job
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Misc. other photos from the week—organ and piano
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Managing graphics and videos this weekend up at the camp—so glad my station is isolated in the translator booth in spite of fairly strict mask enforcement
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Ark Encounter
Food supplies.
Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Another great weekend at Camp Kulaqua for Florida Conference Camp Meeting—I get to work with a fantastic media team crew
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"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.
Hella's
Hella's is a very popular Greek restaurant and bakery in Tarpon Springs.
Map detail of trail
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Good night, Florida
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One of the 22 gators we spotted
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Scenes from the exhibit hall
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Beach fauna
Not sure what kind of bird this is. Not a traditional seagull. But the poor thing was missing a foot and was hobbling around on just a stump on one leg. :-(
