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Hear, See, and Do Inspiration Music Personal Shaycam.com

Hear, See, and Do – #13

HEAR: Dashboard Confessional – Alter the Ending
Dashboard Confessional - Alter the EndingI feel like I’ve gotten a lot of flack for sticking with Dashboard Confessional over the years, and you know what? I’m kind of tired of it. If someone keeps writing good songs, I’m gonna listen to them. This is exactly why I’m saying you should hear their new record “Alter the Ending.” There are actually two versions of the album, an acoustic and a full band version. For a band that has continually struggled with the acoustic versus band vibe, this was a really good move. The songs are good, catchy, and Chris Carrabba consistently writes well. The third track “Everybody Learns from Disaster” is especially good.

SEE: Art In My Coffee
Art in My CoffeeThe first time I ever experienced “foam art” in my coffee was in Seattle. There’s a coffee shop our good friend Megan told us about called Victor’s Coffee that literally made designs in coffee. It’s something I’ve seen pop up more in the internet world and now the site Art in My Coffee is completely dedicated to this beautiful art. I really appreciate the quality of the images here as well as the fact they are basically considering it an online museum. You can even submit your own photo which is fabulous. Oh, and if you’re looking for them in short form, they are on Twitter.

DO: Buy Me This In-N-Out Clear Cup
In-N-Out Clear CupFor those non-Californian types this won’t make sense so if you want to move along that’s fine. But for my California natives, I know you understand how awesome this is. Some people may have already spent their hard earned money on one of those (way overpriced) Starbucks clear cups, but I’m telling you right now that this In-N-Out cup should be mine. For only $10.50 from the In-N-Out company store, this is a no-brainer. My family already purchased the beautiful, stunning, fabulous, hand-painted, hand crafted In-N-Out Double Double, fries, and drink Christmas ornaments, but those can only be brought out once a year and for a limited time. This perfectly clear, palm tree lined, 16oz plastic cup of goodness is exactly what I need on a daily basis. I promise I will treat it right, never microwave it, and always hand wash so you know it’ll be in good hands.

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Books Christianity Hear, See, and Do Photography

Hear, See, and Do – #12

HEAR: The Blessings of Following Christ – A Sermon by Scott Ardavanis
[audio:http://placeritachurch.com/home/140005082/140005082/audio/The%20Blessing%20of%20Following%20Christ.mp3?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_term=sermon%2C+audio%2C+scott+ardavanis%2C+placerita+baptist+church%2C+church&utm_content=Sermon+audio+from+Placerita+Baptist+Church]

SEE: The Denver Post’s Photo Collection “Childhood Poverty in Colorado”
Denver Post - "Childhood Poverty in Colorado"This is probably the best photo journal I’ve seen to date and not really on a subject that I would have expected. The Denver Post has put together a collection of images and stories of families living in some of the poorest conditions right here in America. Often we see poverty photographed in Africa or India, but some of the families photographed in this collection are only minutes from downtown Denver, Colorado. Take the time to not only stare at the photos, but read the captions and hear the stories. It brought me to tears, but I think it’s worth the read.

DO: Buy the book Rules for My Unborn Son
Rules for My Unborn SonThanks to the kindness of a friend, I received the book “Rules For My Unborn Son” this past week and I can’t get enough of it. Jam packed full of simple, smart, and funny “rules” for sons to live by, it’s the perfect present for a dad-to-be like myself. Some gems include: “Spend time with your mother. She’s cooler than you think.” And “Always stop at a lemonade stand. Tip well.>” These are just a few of the great rules for sons to live by. Each page has only two or three rules and scattered black and white photos from yesteryear that give the overall vibe of the book a retro past. You’ll love it, your friends will love it, and if you take to heart some of this “dad wisdom” you just might stay out of trouble.

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Hear, See, and Do Movies Personal Photography Shaycam.com

Hear, See, and Do – #11

HEAR: “The Meaning of Justification” By My Pastor, Scott Ardavanis
[audio:http://placeritachurch.com/home/140005082/140005082/audio/The%20Meaning%20of%20Justification.mp3]
I really do sit under some incredible teaching every week. Our pastor has preached on this subject before, but every time I hear it I’m reminded just how important justification really is. Click the play button above to listen to the sermon or go here.

SEE: “Autumn Scenes” on The Big Picture
Photo by Dina Rudick/Globe Staff

If you’re not regularly reading and seeing The Big Picture, make sure and add it to your RSS reader. The photos they put together are fabulous (and not to mention HUGE) and I find that it regularly gives me a little overview of what’s going on around the world. This week they put together a set of photos called “autumn scenes” that just really bring out the full colors of fall. Definitely take a few minutes to browse through these beautiful images.

DO: Get Out and See Toy Story 1 & 2 in 3D!
We went last weekend and it was well worth it! Both movies are fabulous and are pretty much becoming Disney classics, and the way Disney has put together the whole two film thing is great. We’re talking two movies for the price of one! The glasses are comfy (and will fit over any regular glasses) and the films are hilarious–even if it’s your third or fourth time seeing them. We had the luxury of seeing them at the ArcLight theater (I even got a hot dog delivered to my seat), but if you don’t have one of those nearby I’m sure your favorite theater will do. There’s only 6 days left to see em’ so hurry up!

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Hear, See, and Do Music Personal Shaycam.com Video

Hear, See, and Do – #10

We’re in the double digits for “Hear, See, and Do” and I’ve got a couple winners for you this time around.

HEAR: Needtobreathe – The Outsiders
Needtobreathe - The Outsiders Don’t let this band’s album artwork freak you out–they’re not scary. My friend Kurt turned me on to this band last week and the only way I can describe them is if Counting Crows, Kings of Leon, Tom Petty, and Hanson all got married, this would be their child. That’s probably the most awkward way of describing a band, but nothing else was coming to mind so you’re just going to have to go with it. Needtobreathe has Godly lyrics, and a more poppy sound without being so radio friendly that I just can’t handle it. They’ve got a Southern soul that makes me want to sit on the front porch a sip lemonade, and they have a hint of the newer Hanson sound that I dig–speaking of Hanson, did you know they’re going on tour with hellogoodbye this fall…awesome. Seriously, this band has impressed me. I can’t speak for their earlier albums, but their latest titled The Outsiders is good and I recommend you take a listen. Click here to buy the album from Amazon.com or just click the “Preview All” button to get a taste!

SEE: This Creative Video By a Guy Named Ben Rector

Ben Rector – Free from TK McKamy on Vimeo.

DO: Visit CheeseandBurger.com — It Will Change Your Life

The Cheese and Burger SocietyYou definitely do NOT want to visit this site if you answer yes to any of the following states:

I am currently hungry
I am pregnant
I hate cheeseburgers
I am a vegan or vegetarian
I hate amazing things
I never saw the movie The Emperor’s New Groove

Cheeseandburger.com is not for the faint of heart or for those not wanting to immediately run out the door and find the most incredible cheeseburger you have ever had. I think this website may have changed the way I look at the cheeseburger….mmmmm… cheeseburger…. My favorites are: 6, 7, 10, 17, 21, and 25 — is it lunch time yet?

Categories
Christianity Hear, See, and Do Personal Shaycam.com Video

Hear, See, and Do – #9

HEAR: A Heart Driven Modesty, God and Clothing: 1 Peter 3:3, 4
[audio:http://placeritachurch.com/home/140005082/140005082/audio/a_heart_driven_modesty.mp3]
This past weekend I had the pleasure of sitting under some fantastic teaching. Starting on Friday night at the Men Discipling Men conference which carried all the way through Saturday night, and then at church on Sunday I have been overwhelmed in areas that I need growth. But on Sunday night, Gunner Gunderson taught on the topic of modesty and I believe everyone needs to hear this message. Though focused towards women, I believe this sermon to be a great reminder to men and Father’s. It’s not a sermon with a “checklist” about what to wear or not to wear, but simply gives Biblical principles for dressing modestly. Gunner has also provided his entire sermon notes and outline which can be found here on his blog. Give it a listen and apply it’s truths and Lord willing we will see change in the hearts (and dress) of many.

SEE: This Time-Lapse Footage of Disneyland Being Built in 1954
Available for the for the first time ever, this archival footage of Disneyland’s incredible construction is actually pretty enjoyable to watch. Apparently it’s been available for a few months, but I’m just getting word of it. Even if you’re not a huge fan of Disney or Disneyland, I think you’ll appreciate the fact that the entire park was built in one year’s time and was done with excellence. The whole park cost $17 million to open and some projects weren’t complete until within days of the official opening in 1955. Below is part two, but I have linked the other four part for those fanatics that just can’t get enough of it.

Building Walt’s Dream – Disneyland’s Construction PT 1 , PT 3 , PT 4 , PT 5

DO: Read A Gospel Primer for Christians
A Gospel PrimerI’ve only just begun reading this book, but I’m already hooked on it. The essential point of the book is to remind you why and how you should preach the Gospel to yourself each and every day. It’s written by Milton Vincent who is a pastor in Moreno Valley, California and he writes it in a simple form so anyone can read it and understand the concept. Though simple in form, it is still very complete in thought and challenges me to think about the Gospel for what it really is–a daily pursuit. I’m only just beginning to understand the need for this book, but the more I read it, the more I remember why I need the Gospel every day.

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Hear, See, and Do

Hear, See, and Do – #8

HEAR: Three Qualities God is Looking For in His Servants
A few weeks back we had a missionary to Uganda as a guest preacher at our church while our pastor was gone. He preached a phenomenal sermon on the “three qualities God is looking for in His servants” out of Isaiah 66, and you would do well to give it a listen. I guarantee it will convict your heart and you will appreciate this pastor’s passion for God’s word and God’s people. Click this link to begin listening or to download the mp3 file (right-click and select “Save As…” to download the file to your computer).


SEE: John Mayer Singing Without a Guitar in His Hands


John Mayer enters the video at about a minute in, so go ahead and fast forward.

DO: Read Last Week’s Cover Story From Newsweek
Last weeks cover story titled “The End of Christian America” which seeks to reveal the latest findings that the number of claiming Christians had dropped some 10% in the past 15 years. Thankfully, they interviewed who I believe to be one of the best-thinking, conservative theologians, Dr. Albert Mohler. Here’s a quick snippet from the article:

“The moral teachings of Christianity have exerted an incalculable influence on Western civilization,” Mohler says. “As those moral teachings fade into cultural memory, a secularized morality takes their place. Once Christianity is abandoned by a significant portion of the population, the moral landscape necessarily changes. For the better part of the 20th century, the nations of Western Europe led the way in the abandonment of Christian commitments. Christian moral reflexes and moral principles gave way to the loosening grip of a Christian memory. Now even that Christian memory is absent from the lives of millions.”

Click here to read the entire article: “The End of Christian America.”

To see all the past “Hear, See, and Do” posts click here.

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Hear, See, and Do

Hear, See, and Do – #7

HEAR: The New U2 Album No Line On The Horizon For Free
U2 is set to release their 12th full-length, studio album next week and they are streaming the whole thing this week on their MySpace page. I’ve only had one listen through, but I feel like it’s just another good album from U2. As soon as I’ve had some time to listen through it a few times I’ll be sure and post a full-review on evadethenoise.com.

SEE: The Crisis of Credit Visualized
Still a little fuzzy on this whole “credit crisis”? Well, this video should clear things up a bit.

DO: Buy a Pair of TOMS Shoes
TOMS ShoesI love my TOMS shoes. Not just because they are uber fashionable and very comfy, but because every time I buy a pair of TOMS shoes I know they are going to give another pair to a child in need. That’s TOMS mission and that’s something I can get behind. Bethany and I ordered our second pair this week and we’re stoked on em’. I got a pair of Charcoal Canvas Stitchouts and Bethany got Chocolate/Natural Stripes! And if you’re not in the market for yourself, I say buy your friend a pair or even consider a pair of Tiny TOMS which, let’s be honest–are the cutest little shoes “in 3 counties” (as my mom would say). Oh, and they even sent us our very own TOMS flag which we hung on our wall–it’s fun.

To see all the past “Hear, See, and Do” posts click here.

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Hear, See, and Do

Hear, See, and Do – #6

It’s time again for another installment of Hear, See, and Do. This is my way of giving every type of learner in the world a crack at what goes on in my head. So whether you’re an auditory, visual, or kinesthetic learner this post has something for you!

Hear: Hanson – The Walk
Hanson - The WalkHanson has been one of those bands that has been labeled and discarded by people for fear that someone might see you associating with the music of a thirteen year old girl. But I’m here to tell you that they are not the “mmm bop” boys anymore. The band have actually grown up (as I would hope) over the past ten plus years of touring and writing, and their last full-length album titled The Walk is seriously worth a listen. You may be thinking I’m off my rocker, but I’m telling you right now that it’s not what you think. In fact, I remember the first time I heard a Hanson song that I liked, I was in high school. I don’t even remember the song title–all I remember was thinking “oh no, I actually like this.” Of course I didn’t really share this feeling with anyone at school for the same fear I have already stated, but now I can proudly tell you that I’m a fan of their sound and look forward to their next release. Just give it a chance and take a listen for free by clicking here.

See: This Really Creative Stop-Motion Video and Be Inspired

Do: Buy a Disneyland Annual Pass or Go Free on Your Birthday
You’re gonna spend the money–it’s just a matter of how magical you’re going to spend it. That’s why I think you’ve got to go and buy an annual pass to Disneyland. I know the economy is bad, OK–I know. But I refuse to allow the economy to dictate the magic that I will experience this year. That’s exactly why Bethany and I have Southern California annual passes and we’re getting more disciples to follow our ways every week. Don’t worry though! If you can’t seem to come up with the cash you can at least enjoy one magical day at the park by signing up for a free birthday pass in 2009. If you’ve never been to Disneyland on your birthda–it’s the best. They give you a special birthday button, a phone call from Goofy, and everywhere you walk that day the cast members will be sure and tell you “Happy Birthday!” Now get out there and let’s get magical!

To see all the past “Hear, See, and Do” posts click here.

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Hear, See, and Do

Hear, See, and Do – #5

Hear: My Latest Mix on 8tracks.com
I wrote about 8tracks.com on evadethenoise the other day and I thought it would be appropriate for Shaycam. 8tracks is a new, legal way to make mixtapes with your mp3’s to share with people on your MySpace, Facebook, or blog. Be sure and check out my mix if you’re in the mood to fly!

See: These Inauguration Photos From The Past to Present

With the inauguration of our new President just days away, it’s only appropriate to see what these big events have looked like in the past. Thanks to the Smithsonian and Flickr we can now see a good collection of inauguration photos online for free and if you’re interested in politics, history, or just photography I would take a look at these.

Do: Read “iPhones Have Consequences”
I read this article earlier this week and was both challenged and convicted as to where our culture is going in regards to reading and knowledge. I’ve said many times before that I’m always interested to read what people think about our culture in regards to youth and culture. This article does a great job of expounding on our continued reliance on technology at the risk of losing some of they key components to our society. It’s a good read. Let me know what you think.

To see all the past “Hear, See, and Do” posts go here.

Categories
Christianity Hear, See, and Do Video

Hear, See, and Do – #4

One of a possible 2 posts for this Christmas eve…

Hear: Rosie Thomas – A Very Rosie Christmas
evadethenoise.com (aka: my friends and me) wrote: “Rosie has a way of making everything she writes seem like it’s been around for years and this Christmas album is no different. Even at my first listen I assumed this was just one of those great traditonal Christmas records people have been listening to for years. I would venture to say that if you’re going to spend money on one new Christmas music this year, it should be this one.”

See: “Fifty People, One Question”

Fifty People, One Question: New Orleans from Benjamin Reece on Vimeo.

Do: Subscribe and Read the Gospel and Culture Project on a Regular Basis
Every now and then I come across something while browsing the abyss that is the internet that captures my attention for an extended period of time. I don’t have time to read everything that I come across in the hundreds of blogs I have in my Google Reader, but one that I “can’t put down” (for lack of a better phrase) is the Gospel and Culture Project.