Mental Post-Its

Thoughts, Notes, and General Mental Mayhem

Category Archives: Fun


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After Orange Conference

It’s been a looooooooonnnnnng week since we just wrapped OC12. I’m pretty pooped, so it’s been nice to be on the couch all day.

In case you missed my constant posting on Twitter and Facebook about it, our staffed gathered with over 5,000 church and ministry leaders to rethink the way the traditional church approaches family ministry. We aim to better partner the church with the home to influence the faith of the next generation. For info, check out our website. We’re even offering free curriculum trials through June.

I am a little anxious to see the surveys, but we’ve already received a lot of great feedback via emails and social media from attendees who said they had a great time and feel better equipped to go back to their church and community in order to make a difference. It’s always encouraging, despite the exhaustion, and this year was particularly great because several of my friends pitched in to volunteer. So it was nice to see the familiar and encouraging faces–kept me going when I started slowing down.

We’ll have a lot more pics in the upcoming weeks on the Orange Leaders Facebook page from the professional photographers, but here are just a few I took with my phone.

Ok, time to get a little sleep and then begin working on OC13!


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How to Survive Almost Anything

If you know even just three things about me, one of those items is probably how much I love TV and movies. One of my favorite genres is anything to do with spies. Outside of that, I love action, end of the world, comedy, dramady, some SciFi, some fantasy, some romantic comedies, mostly fiction…ok, lots of different genres. (Mostly, you can just leave out Westerns, Reality and co-dependent teen vampire flicks, and I’m in.) Therefore, in my vast amount of research, I’ve been taking notes on how to survive almost anything–End Times, zombie apocalypse, kidnapping, bombings, physical attack, vampire awakening, virus outbreak, alien invasion and/or galactic invasion. And I’m here to share that knowledge with you. You’re welcome.

Learn….

  • a second language. You almost always need to be at least bilingual. This flaw is an American’s Achilles heel. I need to get back to practicing. If were are talking near future, learn Spanish. (See most stats for 2030.) Far future, Chinese. (See Firefly.)
  • to pick a lock. Despite my asking for a lock picking kit for years, I’ve yet to receive one for my birthday or Christmas. Don’t be fooled, kids. A credit card won’t work on any real door. Get yourself a set of tools and practice. And all locks were not created equal, so don’t get cocky.
  • kickboxing or another form of martial arts or higher level self defense. You must be able to defend yourself. This tactic should come in hand in almost any situation, except for evil wizards.
  • Morse Code. Old school or not, it could prove to be invaluable in a variety of situations. It’s survived itself, hasn’t it? Morse Code would work for when the power goes out, when you need to communicate without words, or even in a German submarine.
  • a warning phrase. You need to choose a phrase to communicate with your friends and loved ones in case you are in trouble. This simple exchange could communicate that you’ve been kidnapped, you’re cover has been blown or that your job won’t let you share that a meteor is headed to Earth in 19 hours. So, you may want to choose a few phrases, as well as one that says, “It’s ok. I was wrong. It was just a flock of wild geese flying backwards.” Don’t make it too obscure, though, or someone will catch on. Example: Jack and Sydney said that there was construction on the freeway.
  • to like exercise. Let’s face it. In any of the movies where your life is on the line, these people are running. It’s the awful truth. Some strength training and running will come in handy. Watch The Firm or War of the Worlds. It could be almost anything.
  • to wield a weapon. Let’s not make the mistake that there will always be a gun on hand, and that you can just point and shoot. You may want to take up an axe, bow and arrow, wooden stake or shank. It would also be helpful if you can make your own weapon, and several of the aforementioned lend themselves to that.
  • to survive on less food. If it’s End Times, don’t count on a filet every night. Practice fasting, and it wouldn’t hurt if you learned to eat things you find in nature for good measure. Panham isn’t that far away.
  • to push through your fear. Fear gets you killed. It makes you think slower. React and go. Remember, there are only two choices: fight or flight. Both involve action, though. One exception: only play dead if there is a bear nearby.
  • who you can trust. You may think it’s easiest to survive on your own. It is realistic to think that there is a Brutus around every corner willing to sell you out for their own survival, cash, power or appointment within the alien regime.  But the real truth is that you need your Ron and Hermione. Know who those people are.

Of course, there are probably a few other items that could be added to this list. What would you add? I’ve just tried to cover the basics for you. These topics will take you a while to learn, and you may discover others in the process. After you’ve mastered the above, you’re in good shape. Then you can move on, and hone other survival skills. But for now, congratulations in taking the first step. You’re well on your way. I’ll see you on the other side…

Note: even if you never have to use any of these essential skills, you’ll look way cool in front of your peers.


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My Favorite Atlanta Restaurants

Because I used to work in restaurant public relations, and still keep up with the restaurant scene in Atlanta somewhat, I get asked a lot what restaurants I recommend or are my favs. So, I’m compiling a list here, in no particular order. I know I’m probably leaving one or more off that I would like on here since I’m just going off the top of my head, but there are so many to choose from. I did try to provide a wide variety.

We have tons of great restaurants in Atlanta, so get out and explore! I don’t even visit my favorites very often; sometimes it may be a couple years between visits. With numerous restaurants opening every year, there are always options at hand that I must try before returning to a place that I’ve been to before.

So, here’s my initial list.

  1. di Paolo – For years, I’ve said this was my favorite restaurant in Atlanta. I think that still holds true. Incredible food. Gracious service. Quaint atmosphere. Great prices. It turned me on to northern Italian cuisine, and now I barely eat southern Italian. Best cheesecake ever.
  2. Figo – You can’t be the prices and fresh food here. Delicious Italian. Gluten-free options. Friendly service and atmosphere. Doing good in the city. I’m obsessed with the arugula salad.
  3. Doc Chey’s – This restaurant would be the Asian equivalent of Figo in all categories mentioned above. Cheap and fresh. I crave the coconut soup and the tofu lettuce wraps. They do a lot to support their neighborhood and the city at large.
  4. ONE. midtown kitchen – The best steak frites in the city, though they offer a lot of fabulous options. One of my favorite atmospheres in the city.
  5. Cabernet Steakhouse – It’s been quite a while since I’ve been, but in my opinion, these are the best steaks in the city. Cabernet was my first job after moving to Atlanta, and it taught me to be a steak snob. It was a very delicious lesson.
  6. Ted’s Montana Grill – Get the New Mexico. Add horseradish sauce to anything you order. It’s a sin to order anything but the bison. Simply the best burger in town.
  7. Urban Pl8 – Oh, my. Been here three times and it was a complete joy every round. Love the gluten-free options, but everything I’ve tried here was a home run. Peanut Butter French Toast? Pesto Chicken Omlette? C’mon!
  8. Alon’s – I probably visit this place more than any other. You can buy just about anything. Everything I’ve ever bought has been wonderful. All made from scratch in house. De-lish!
  9. Pura Vida – There’s a reason Chef Hector was on Iron Chef. He’s amazing. I’ve been introduced to numerous, different ingredients here with pleasing results. Try the baby goat.
  10. Pure Taqueria – I love this laid-back atmosphere and great Mexican food. My favorite, though? The hamburger. You may think it’s weird, but I guarantee you won’t question it again if you try it.
  11. Sushi Nami – I’ve only been here once, but it was stellar. Absolutely incredible. Well worth the drive.
  12. Rosebud – Southern goodness. It’s haute and home-cooked. Lovely atmosphere and good service. It’s hard to decide what to order!
  13. Serpas – New American with Creole influences. It’s a new spin on a lot of your favorites. Scott has been one of my favorite chefs through several restaurants now. Follow him. You’ll be glad you did.
  14. Season’s 52 – A healthy version of eating at a nice restaurant. Good portions, good calorie count. BUT…it’s also yummy. It’s a great night out.
  15. 4th & Swift – Inventive and rewarding. My friend took me for my birthday a while back, and it was a happy birthday indeed. Jay Swift is an Atlanta favorite. Eat here and you’ll see why.
  16. Village Tavern – If your in the suburbs up north, this place is one of the best to visit. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve eaten here and it’s always been wonderful. Consistency should be rewarded.
  17. Top Flr – Love the atmosphere here, and the food is just as captivating.
  18. Murphy’s – There is a reason this place has been around for about 30 years. Voted best brunch many times, but also a great lunch and dinner. Super yummy desserts.
  19. TWO Urban Licks – A sister of ONE. midtown kitchen. This restaurant is worth going home smelling like meat. Really fun atmosphere and fantastic food.
  20. Takorea – I’ve only been here once and am headed back tomorrow. Korean and Mexican blend. I can’t even begin to describe the delight in this joint, both in the atmosphere and food. Sesame Fries, Tempura Sweet Potatoes, Brisket Enchiladas, Tacos, etc…on and on…
  21. (one to grow on) Feast – I know there are a hundred fantastic places in Decatur, but I just don’t get there often. I took a friend here for her birthday a few months back, and it was all-around wonderful. Adorable decor, great service, fantastic food. Yeah, gotta get back to Decatur.

For pizza:

  1. Fritti
  2. Antico Pizza
  3. Z Pizza
  4. Blue Moon Pizza
  5. Mellow Mushroom

For dishes:

  1. J. Christopher’s  – Blueberry Crunch Cakes
  2. Jim ‘N’ Nick’s – Brisket and Cheddar Biscuits with Honey Butter
  3. The Flying Biscuit – Creamy Dreamy Grits or Heavenly Potatoes (great brunch overall)
  4. F.A.B. – Try the Creamy French Onion Soup and you’ll dream about it for years. I do.
  5. Cinco – best Chicken Tortilla Soup I’ve ever had.

For desserts:

  1. Piece of Cake
  2. Cami Cakes
  3. Henri’s
  4. Cacao
  5. Parish

And let’s not forget our friends the food trucks!

Let me know which of your favorites I missed, and why! And if you’re ever looking for suggestions, just let me know.


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Different Drummer, Disney and Orange

Here is a reprint of a post I co-wrote for work about a really unique trip I recently went on.

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Recently, our friends at Different Drummer offered two of us Orange staffers a unique opportunity to spend time at Walt Disney Animation Studios with a group of amazing women in ministry from churches all across the country. These women had a variety of Orange experience, ranging from none to some to thinking Orange, which made for a lot of fun discussion. During our two-day visit, we were asked, “What is Orange?” many times. And every time we gave our answer, we would receive a thoughtful and puzzled response—”So, you don’t just work with children’s ministry?” or “I had no idea our church’s entire ministry staff could utilize Orange resources.” So, over the course of the next 36-hours, while experiencing Los Angeles and Disney Studios together, we set the record straight.

It was a wonderful whirlwind of a trip and during our brief stint as VIP’s, our little group of women still found plenty of time to chat. Our first stop was a private screening of the new Winnie the Pooh movie in its entirety and the first four minutes of The Lion King 3D, to be released in July and September, respectively. What great family movies! After the viewing, we were all able to discuss how Pooh and his friends showcase many qualities of a strong Christian family—love, trust and kindness—and do so in a cute and funny storyline. Next, we were off to the Walt Disney Animation Studios where we met with some of the directors, producers, writers and animation artists from the movie. What a unique experience to hear the background on planning, research, casting and implementation of a Disney movie. Several of them also shared their personal testimony and faith with us, and how that is lived out on the job at Disney. They have seen some very cool things happen as they pray for their coworkers.

A few of our other excursions included the opportunity to try our hand as the voiceover for Piglet, speak with an original Pooh animator who has a 50-year-plus career with Disney, tour the archive building with over 65 million sketches from all Disney films, and watch The Lion King animators at work. We even received our very own drawing to take home!

Overall, it was a fantastic behind-the-scenes look at one of the most recognizable companies in the world. We were delighted with the chance to educate those new to Orange, as well as encourage those currently incorporating the strategy. Additionally, it was inspiring for us to hear how these women were serving God and their communities. We definitely made some great friends! And hopefully, they are also now able to answer the question, “What is Orange?”

A big thanks once again to Different Drummer and Disney! And be sure to see Winnie the Pooh at your local theater July 15—it’s a movie the whole family will enjoy!


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Happy Anniversary

…to me. Wednesday the 13th, I celebrated nine years of living in Georgia. It was a cold, winter’s night in 2001 that Heather and I pulled into her parent’s driveway. I was really excited, and a little scared. It was a new life and I felt out of my element as their subdivision sometimes felt larger than my college.

But I’ve adjusted and adapted, and now feel very at home here. I cannot begin to count the numerous blessings that God has given me me since living here. I am more thankful for this experience than any words could ever express, and I love to use words.

I do think it would be good, however, to note a few of the significant blessings – a highlights reel, if you will – of my time here. Now, I know this list could go on for days but I’m just going to throw a few out here.

1. The Bundys: Bill and Deedee gave me a home and family here in Atlanta. Since I met them 1996, they have welcomed me as one of their own. They even gave me a sister and best friend in Heather…and lots of extended family. I still miss Thanksgiving with them every year.

2. North Atlanta Church of Christ: a place of spiritual development and a safe place to grow. I can’t imagine how different I might be if I hadn’t spent years with these people. They will always have a significant place in my heart. I have so many friends for life from here.

3. The Reynolds Group: really learned to love food in a whole, new way here. I grew significantly as a professional here, too, and began my desire to pursue writing, a true passion. And am thankful to say that I still have great relationships with friends here, even though I have moved on.

4. Trifecta+1: Daron, Mark and I are the Trifecta and Margaret is our plus one. These three have helped me in more ways than they will ever realize. They are continually a source of encouragement, creativity, accountability and love. Through them, God has shown me the direction for my life. I feel a little undeserving of them at times, so I’m thankful they accept me. These people are my heart living outside my chest.

5. The People: Yes, this may sound a like a cheap plug to include “the little people,” but I truly do mean it. I think I could live in any big city and find contentment. And while I adore the art/music/theater/restaurant/entertainment venues, it’s the people here who capture my attention. When I say, “I love Atlanta” (which I’ve said often, by the way), I always mean the people. There are a ton of people I have yet to talk specifically about who are very dear to me. I hope you know who you are because I hope that I tell you enough. If not, I’m sorry and I’ll try and do better. You make this city special to me.

While other ranking honorable mentions may include diabetic sweet tea, my favorite restaurants and four seasons, I think the above will suffice for now. I don’t know if I’ll “settle” down here in Atlanta (or anywhere for that matter), but I’m willing to go wherever God calls me. Just know a part of me will always remain in Hotlanta!