The Crazy Adventures of Lito

I Love My Son!

2011-06-20T02:40:00.001-07:00

What is Love? Baby don't hurt me....no more.

2011-03-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

I have a fondness for SNL's skit with Will Ferrel and Chris Kattan. Dancing around trying to find someone who will dance with them too. During my freshman year my buddy Eric and I performed our own rendition and took 2nd place in our High School talent show. Sometimes I find my self wandering our church and that song is playing in my head, if you see a little head bob you can be sure of it. But I like that question What is Love? Is it tangible, is it demonstrated, do you feel it, do you know it? Recently I've come to terms that my son does not know how much my wife and I love him. We would literally do anything for this kid. I'm also starting to think anyone in our church's nursery would do anything for him as well as they constantly tell me stories about how fun he is to watch and play with. Even the other girls in the toddler room recently were chasing him around trying to kiss him, he of course is like his father (In Jr. High).

But I've always equated love with this campy teen movie I saw with my mom as a kid. Where a boy who's always been in love with this girl, during a robbery, jumps in front of a bullet to save her life. He ends up dying, but don't worry he comes back from the dead, as a zombie. (Yeah I know weird movie). But is that all love is. I have to be ready for those I love to be shot at and jump in front of a bullet for them. Scripture say's "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 1 Jn 3:16 So laying it down is the key part. I wonder why God couldn't have allowed Jesus to die an old man perhaps pass away in his sleep but he's tortured, beaten to a bloody pulp. Is this to make me feel bad? A reminder that every time I sin I pierce the skin of Jesus?I believe it's to show us how much God Loves us. That he would go to unfathomable lengths even seek us out to the point of the worse death ever.

This is hard to fathom especially when I'm told to Love. I'll be completely honest I don't always want to love. I'm pretty sure I'm selfish 90% of the day. I am constantly looking for ways to put my self ahead. The times you see me love I can assure you it is not me but Christ who is in me. And for His Amazing Grace I am so thankful. I couldn't do it on my own. As I get older I hope that less of me exists and more of Christ is revealed but sometimes it seems like a long journey that I would need all of eternity to accomplish. A song that has been challenging me since 7th grade is Jars of Clay's World's Apart, a song asking God to take our world apart, this one line gets me everytime,

"and serve the ones that I despise
speak the words I can't deny
watch the world I used to love
fall to dust and thrown away"

For me to know what true love is I have to serve the ones I despise. Am I capable of that I even struggle serving those people who I enjoy hanging out with. When we allow the Holy Spirit to move us this action becomes a reality. Love takes the form of action how we listen, how we sacrifice for people. So Love actually can be tangible. Hopefully when we demonstrate it people can feel and know it. I want to be made perfect in His Love no longer asking how much do people love me rather How much do I love those I despise.

"If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother." -1 Jn 4:20-21

The Elephant in the room.

2011-03-03T10:59:00.000-08:00

Why is talking about the most important things left unsaid? I have agonized the meaning in scripture that refers to "All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body." 1 Cor. 6:18b It appears sexual sin is a greater issue then we give it credit. And of course it naturally becomes the one thing no one really wants to discuss.

I spoke at our College Group at church this past week and found myself wanting them all to know that we can hide our secret struggles, but it still continues to eat away at our relationship with God. Whether male or female, there is a tendency to believe only guys struggle with this temptation but more often than not there are many women who struggling but on an emotional level.

But with all this said there needs to be the grace on the other end. Many never want to open up about their struggles due to the fact they expect to be thrown to the curb by other people. How are we then suppose to act when someone confesses, hopefully with open arms.

I found this article and am hoping it blesses others as we take a hold of our rightful place in God's Kingdom.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2011/winter/breakingpoint.html

"The essence of chastity is not the suppression of lust, but the total orientation of one's life towards a goal. Without such a goal, chastity is bound to become ridiculous. Chastity is the sine qua non of lucidity and concentration."
— Dietrich Bonhoeffer

.....

2011-02-21T23:44:00.001-08:00

I can write the saddest poem of all tonight. I loved her, and sometimes she loved me too. On nights like this, I held her in my arms. I kissed her so many times under the infinite sky. She loved me, sometimes I loved her. How could I not have loved her large, still eyes? I can write the saddest poem of all tonight. To think I don't have her. To feel that I've lost her. -Pablo Neruda

Forgive me for I have sinned...

2011-02-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

I believe I've gotten to a place that looks at Christianity religiously. The funny thing is I've often preached against allowing Christianity being a religion rather allow it to be a relationship with Christ. Yet I have even deceived myself in the process allowing my rituals and do's and don'ts to become almost phariseetical. Perhaps originally I was in pursuit of Christ but over time I've sought how I look in the church rather than how Christ looks in my life. This of course is not good.

Recently I've been enamored by a couple books that brought this to my attention the main one being The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller. (If you like a good read pick it up he also happens to be one of my favorite preachers). In this book he points out not only the sin of the Son who squandered his inheritance but he points out to who Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees and then the Oldest son wouldn't partake in the celebration of his returned brother. Frustrated that he was faithful and received no praise for this. Sadly the story ends on this note where the faithful son doesn't have a chance to make amends. (Book is much more detailed and I generalized much it).

So we have two people here those who return to Christ late in the game and those who are faithful and are expecting more. Why would any of us ask for more than salvation itself? Or refuse anyone forgiveness? Perhaps we're all waiting for that, Jesus pat on the back of Job well done. Ultimately I know I have made actions that will only return an earthly reward, but I want to be a follower in Christ despite who's watching I want to serve him in humility in order others may know his Name. Yet I believe in some way every Christian walk runs into an area of pride in their Christian service, like a look at how "Holy" I am! This must be avoided at all cost. In my case I have to be reminded of the audience in which Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees or in other words the religious, and as a follower in Jesus I must keep watch of the coldness of tradition and seek out the warmness of meeting needs.

Oscars

2011-01-18T00:58:00.000-08:00

Haven't written in awhile just been thinking about Oscars and have enjoyed some films this year. Current assumptions for Oscar Nods would be The Fighter, Black Swan, Social Network, and possibly True Grit. Now I would say my desire for Best pic would be a tie between Social Network and The Fighter. Best Actress- Natalie Portman, Best Actor- Tie between Jesse Eisenberg and Jeff Bridges, Supporting Actress- Amy Adams, Supporting Actor- Christian Bale. Now I haven't seen all the movies I would like to see like a King's Speech and 127 Hours but I enjoyed these performances and this would be the route I go. But I don't know if True Grit will get the recognition it deserved because it felt different then your normal Western. What are some of your possible pics for the Oscars?

Eclipse

2010-06-30T04:41:00.002-07:00

My wife has attended 2 of the 3 Midnight Showings of Star Wars the least I could do is go see Eclipse with her. Now that sounds like something I could say and get away with the fact that I have actually read all 4 Twilight books, but the truth is my wife asked me to read them I said I would and in between my text books over the past two years I've read all 4 books. I've enjoyed the story. I get that girls are wanting to be sought after it all makes sense to me. But I also know that with all this hype no man will ever match up to the man each girl so desires whether this be Team Edward or Team Jacob.
Now the vampire and werewolf stuff aside there is actually a pretty good love story of choice which is the right person for me and even a lesson on some good old traditional values about abstinence. Yeah finally a movie that encourages Abstinence but don't get me wrong there is a lot of kissing before Edward puts the breaks on his physically inclined lady friend. To be perfectly honest my wife and I had a discussion that consisted of whether or not we would allow our teen to watch Eclipse and the truth is it depends. First on who they are as a person. I can see the fantasizing that young boys have for some model can be a detriment to their future relationships the same way that a girl can fantasize about the emotional connection with a man. Both although different can have a significant effect on how we look at our relationships. Now don't miss out what I'm saying. It was a good movie but I think if I had a teen I would watch this film with them. Then after all the hype I would ask them questions. Like why do you think Edward has values about sex after marriage? Now some parents would shy from this but I see this as a great moment to open some discussion. Most shows on tv are worse any ways.
There also seemed to be a lot of violence now I am usually comfortable with violence but there were more than one decapitations. What ever that's worth to you. Overall I really enjoyed this film. I still enjoyed New Moon a little more due to the directors choices, but it was still very enjoyable. Side Note, My favorite book was Eclipse which I don't know why it wasn't my favorite film but it was still worth seeing it with all the fans. You have to enjoy a movie when the audience is in to it too. They laugh louder and even clap at times that really are fun and exciting. So far my reviews have been given a lot of praises this summer but I am easily pleased 4.5 out of 5.

If I ever approach a movie that may be questionable in its content I go to http://www.pluggedin.com/movies.aspx which does an excellent job at letting me know why it got the rating it received.

Toy Story 3

2010-06-30T04:22:00.001-07:00

So I want to preface my review with this, prior to seeing this film I dropped off my son with my mom. As she pulled out a box of toys I use to play with (Ninja Turtles so Terminator figures) she suggested I let my son play with them I was all for this as I could easily see my legacy of action figures have a chance to be enjoyed by my spawn. Now the whole premise of this film is Andy the owner of Woody and Buzz Lightyear to name a few, prepares to go to college. Now the problem the toys feel forgotten. So the film had a strong emotional tug at my heart due to the thought of my son playing with my toys I haven't touched in easily 15 years. So I can honestly say if you have a heart this movie will move you. As more and more cartoons make an attempt to reach adults as well as children they step up their game in allowing the story to have multiple levels whether emotionally or even psychologically. This movie dealt with themes of death, revenge, justice, and abandonment issues. I enjoyed every moment of it.
Now last summer Up was easily my favorite movie of the summer. I don't think Toy Story 3 has that title yet (hoping Predators pans out) I am still intrigued at the quality of films Pixar has put out Incredible's, Wall-E, and the rest to come. I would say Toy Story 3 can wait as a rental but it is a Must See. 4 out of 5.

Knight & Day

2010-06-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

When I first saw this trailer I knew immediately I wanted to see this film. The Story is all about a woman's world colliding with a CIA operative. Let the hilarity ensue. I felt this movie had some laugh out loud moments where I could keep laughing if I didn't restrain myself due to wanting others to enjoy the film. It was just fun through and through. I saw an interview that claimed Tom Cruise does most of his stunts which always adds something to me in a film. I even enjoyed Cameron Diaz performance where sometimes she misses the mark, in my book she did fairly good going up with Cruise himself. Chemistry was pretty good between the two when ever it didn't feel like it connected I would justify it by the two characters have really only known each other for a couple of days. All and all a pretty good film that will get you laughing out loud for one moment where Cruise constantly drugs Diaz for her own protection. 4 out of 5, this would have received an extra .5 but there was a little cheesiness.

Karate Kid

2010-06-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

If we had any doubts that Jaden Smith was the product of Will Smith all your doubts would be set aside from this film. Jaden does an excellent job in this classic remake. I thought the pacing was a little slow but thought to myself well the pay off will just have to be bigger and it was. Through the well choreographed fighting to the emotional character choices by Jackie Chan it all came together. I easily can say this is Jackie Chan's best acting in any film he's done to date. We know Chan can fight but he also proves his depth to his acting. I believe this heartfelt movie should be seen by the whole family.
Now if you're trying to save some money you can also rent it as I don't think much will be lost to the small screen, as it is so story driven. But it is a must see even if it's only to compare it to the orignal, p.s. it matches up to the original really closely. 4.5 out of 5.

A-Team

2010-06-11T03:55:00.000-07:00

This is one of those films that could have gone either way, been really well done or a sad knock off of the original. I completely loved this movie. This movie let me know that Summer of 2010 had finally arrived. The action wasn't to overwhelming they made sure to move the story along and kept you guessing the whole time. I felt like it was a perfect blend of action, story, and comedy.
The only lacking thing was perhaps Quinton Rampage's performance. He turned Mr. T's iconic character "B.A." into a whinny little punk. Although my take could be effected do to his loss from Rashad Evans. Now Rampage's performance wasn't the worse it just seemed to not be as strong as Mr. T's. I will point out an excellent performance by Sharlto Copley as Murdock. Copley is one of those actor's you don't even recognize from one film to the next. He had the leading role in District 9 and in A-Team it was neat to see him as someone completely different, I believed him the whole time. I would easily say 4.5 out of 5. A Must See Summer Blockbuster now you must like Action and plenty of Green Screen!

Killers

2010-06-04T03:44:00.000-07:00

Now My wife and I had our first outing in town without the boy child and naturally we went to the movies. This summer seems to have a couple movies that seem a little reminiscent of Mr. and Mrs. Smith. This film and Knight and Day being the two that stand out.
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this film. I loved the chemistry between Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigl. When it comes to any two people on screen you want there to be this believability between the couple. They have just that. There seems to also be a couple other stand out characters from Tom Selleck and Catherine O'Hara mainly known from Home Alone as Kevin's mom. But I prefer her from her Mockumentary fame with Christopher Guest and the slew of other comedians. Although small characters there are a few that are pretty funny people. Now as much as I liked it I usually save romantic comedies for rentals but this film did have some stuff blow up so I felt compelled to watch it on the big screen. Overall it wouldn't Kill you to wait for this at Red Box. I give it a 3 and 1/2 out of 5.

Graduation...

2010-05-21T09:30:00.001-07:00

Well as I sit on the eve of Graduation from Ozark Christian College. I wrestle with so many different emotions Joy for the continuing of full-time ministry sadness to leave an institution that has challenged me in my walk with God every day I walked onto her campus. But overall I am thankful for the people I've met. I've been blessed with so many amazing professors like Mark Scott, Andrew Kirschner, Brian Brubaker (the list should contain every prof. I was in contact with). Then there's the churches I served at Christ Church of Oronogo, Humansville Christian Church, First Christian Church of Lamar and Commerce and even took a chance on a great church in Memphis that challenged me to rely on my wife more. So many people so many blessings. I love the God I serve and hope that I will continue to love and adore who he is and how he used a church from Clovis, Ca to pay for my education. What a blessing and encouragement. Praise the Lord.

Iron Man 2

2010-05-12T07:29:00.001-07:00

Well we were able to have a nice date night. Including Red Onion Cafe and followed with a movie with 5 of my favorite people.

Now this is easily one of those movies that you automatically know is going to be a solid film with few issues. Now as a fan of comics (I'm more of a DC guy) I know some of the history of Tony Stark. In this rendition you have to allow Comic Book movies to be movies and Comics be comics. So I've read a few people had issues that Mickey Rourke's character was never called by his comic book name (Whiplash). But I don't know if you need that for this film. Batman Dark Night did an excellent job with Two Face but he wasn't walking around telling people, "My new name is, TWO FACE!" Sometimes these things that work with your comic book audience doesn't work with you film audience. I'm fine with them not calling him by his Whiplash name.

Now when ever I see these new Superhero movies of course we like to identify with these Characters. And since Tony Stark is Marvel's version of Batman (if you ask me) rich and uses wealth to fight crime. You have to find his human element in the whole thing. And the underlying story is Tony Stark having daddy issues. Which overall worked pretty well. If more movies would allow you to connect with these distant characters by human emotion you'll see audiences drawn to well done Superhero movies. I loved this film. I still believe Robert Downey Jr. is one of the best actors out there. Is it because he's had a life of drugs and addictions who knows? The guy is just a solid actor. Earlier this year I wanted to see more of his work and watched Chaplin as he played Charlie Chaplin, the film itself is a little slow at times but when there's a solid actor you will watch them do anything. Robert Downey Jr. is that type of actor. He completely understands the Psyche of Tony Stark.

Now my final review is this, if you're looking for a movie that outshines Iron Man 1 well I don't think it does that but it completely meets the same excitement and freshness of the first one. I thought it was just as good as the first. Which I loved the first one. Originally I expected this movie to be my favorite film of Summer 2010 but I'm thinking there's still some excellent potential with this Summer. (I'll share in another blog about movies I'm expecting to be one's I don't want to miss.) I give Iron Man 2 a Must See in Theaters (if you liked the first one).

Date Night

2010-04-13T07:42:00.001-07:00

Now I probably haven't laughed as hard since Pineapple Express and I loved that film. As many film involving any Second City Alums you have the idea that filming the movie itself was probably even funnier than the film. Which in this case is okay as the on screen chemistry helps the humor along. The film seems to be self explanatory as 40 something couple decides to have a long overdue Date Night, then a moment of mistaken identity causes the Night to take a hilarious turn. Surprise cameos from Mark Wahlberg, Ray Liotta, and Common adds a little something to keep those you wouldn't expect in a comedy to help the humor along. When it comes to the comedies involving mistaken identity ala Three Amigos and Tropic Thunder I think this one is just a step under Three Amigos and quite a bit above Tropic Thunder. Go see this movie on a Date Night!

Clash of the Titans

2010-04-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

It appears the past few years the goal to make the Blockbuster Movie of the Summer to come out earlier and earlier than the last. When I was a kid movies in July would be the pinnacle of the summer (Independence Day). Now movies like Iron Man hit theaters early May to begin the Summers Blockbuster Hits. I believe Clash of the Titans was making an attempt to kick this year off with a Big Epic Movie of 2010 sadly Medusa turned this one into stone. My wife and went to see it with the highly advertised 3D experience, then the projectors bulb wouldn't work. Causing us to have to wait a few more days to see the film. But we were given a couple extra tickets for a free movie. This of course became the best part of the whole movie, that we were given a free movie ticket. Not a good sign. The whole film consisted of hollow acting and a weak story attempting to get your heroes from point A to point B with little interest. The strongest character in the film had to be Hades, but even with his unique take on this mythical character it was really disappointing. The whole film was advertised everywhere as 3D and I discovered after seeing the film that it wasn't even made with 3D in mind. Not all movies should be in 3D. So if you decide to resurrect this film like the Kraken then watch it in 2D, but I'd rather pass seeing it again.

My boy...

2010-03-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

So as of late Malachi has been hilarious to listen to in the morning. He wakes up and laughs and giggles while laying in his crib. I mean there is nothing happening and he is chatting away the whole time. I wonder if he is surrounded by heavenly hosts unbeknownst to anyone else. I would like to think that he is completely aware of God's presence in his life and finds the joy every morning to have his baby talk.

Heb 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.

Some of my sons firsts...

2010-01-23T18:57:00.001-08:00

Profile of the Lukewarm

2010-01-19T06:18:00.001-08:00

Francis Chan's 4th chapter in Crazy Love opens the door to a portion of every Christian's walk. A moment when we can still very easily be attending church and doing the Christian duty but at the same time not truly sacrificing anything for Christ. Our love for God should be at a level that causes us to actually want to be more like Him (The Father) and less like us.

How has your lukewarm lifestyle benefited the Kingdom?

How could 2010 benefit from your life being a passionate love offering to God?

Who could be saved because of you finally giving it all to Christ?

Preaching at Northside Christian Church!

2009-12-31T16:37:00.001-08:00

http://vimeo.com/8425716

Just copy the above url and you can hear my sermon from this past week.

Malachi and the many Faces!

2009-12-14T08:44:00.001-08:00

So currently Malachi has been making some really funny faces. This past week we were traveling back from Chicago. The boy looked at me while I sipped on my soda and reached to grab the soda, I kindly pulled away when Malachi began making this face as if he was attempting to “force pull” the cup to himself. He hasn’t done this since but I wonder if deep down inside I’m raising a Jedi Baby!

Testing

2009-12-10T06:50:00.001-08:00

Just testing some blog settings by using my new writer that will allow me to type on my blog when I’m offline.

Crazy Love....So it begins

2009-10-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted more? This is the question Francis Chan presents to us in his book Crazy Love. The next 10 weeks I want to challenge anyone who wants to share their thoughts or want to ask questions as we read through Crazy Love. I have some friends that will be going through this and responding right here, but know its open to you as well.

Chapter 1: Stop Praying

In the Bible Solomon warns us not to rush into God's presence with words.

I recall a time when my friend Evan and I just went to the mountains to enjoy God in his wonderful creation (Ps.19:1-4), it was a time of rejuvenation for me, when's the last time you just enjoyed God's creation?

We would think it would be easy to Love a God so wonderful, powerful, and Holy, but we often allow the relationship with God to fizzle. I know with all the involvement I have in the church as well as Bible College it is very easy to turn God into a day to day thing you just get done, but is that passion? What are things in your life that hinder you passion for God?

I hope you share your thoughts and allow this place to open to discussion with other people that read some of Chan's words as that will assist you in fully understanding the questions of each chapter. May God Bless us in this search for Crazy Love!

Oh, Grow Up!

2009-09-21T20:30:00.001-07:00

Now I'm a fan of Midnight releases like no one's business. Sometimes I wonder if the Movie or Game that's going to come out at Midnight is actually worth it. Now the atmosphere and experience amongst people with so much excitement is great yet the next day at 7am it hurts real bad. What ever the case I'm off to another experience this time with Halo 3: ODST, I hope it's worth it!

Thinking of Kai

2009-07-12T15:50:00.000-07:00

I recently had a discussion with an old Mentor perhaps my first strong Christian Man in my life. He was the type who in 7th grade awkwardly brought up the discussion of purity even though at the time didn't want to hear any of it, but in hindsight see it as a huge blessing. In Jr. High I recall being challenged by God to truly seek him him in a way that called out the question, "What does it take to be a Man of God?" I haven't been able to figure out why God has put such amazing men of God in my life who have personally challenged me when I needed the challenge the most. These men include: my dad, brother, Rod Ristow, Don Hargis, Nathan Morales, David Rutherford, Cameron Unruh, and Dave Smith. Now there are many more that I'm sure I'm not immediately thinking of but have to this point can't imagine better men to have been challenged by. In talking with my old mentor Rod, who I hadn't talked to in years, he mentioned taking his son through raising a Modern Day Knight by Robert Lewis a book that even challenges father's to take their sons through a rite of passage as they are taught what it takes to be a man. I was amused that he shared that since it is easily one of my favorite books and had read it about 3 years ago in trying to continue to answer the question of what God wants from me as a man in marriage and then one day in fatherhood.

I've come to the point where I realize that no Dad is perfect and we all have faults and that at times our kids will pick up some or even can become the greatest critique on our walk with God because there is no hiding from the watchful eyes of a child. I find myself everyday sneaking into Kai's room and praying for this son, I haven't even held yet, that he would passionately seek God in a way that he wouldn't rely on his parents faith. I also pray that the men and women who pour into Kai in his walk with God, who may be teens right now as we speak, would passionately teach him God's truth. I love Kai and sometimes find myself just so excited I literally start jumping up and down. I love my wife and now our son Kai is a product of that Love, I thank God that he has given us this gift. I feel that I am slowly grasping what parents talk about when they say that when you have a child you understand God in a whole new way, since we are his Children. I want to be a Man of God that Kai can look to and never second guess where my heart is, and I pray he'll be that man too!

-Dad “The glory of sons is their fathers.” (Proverbs 17:6)

Baby Kai is almost here!

2009-07-01T07:23:00.000-07:00

Do you want to know when our future son Kai is born then send the text message Babykai to 41411 and you'll receive a text with info about our baby any day now, if you join let me know trying to follow who joins!

Music Man with OCC

2009-05-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

Now you can't go wrong with a classic brought to a modern era, my friend Nick and I decided to take the famous Rock Island number from Music Man and improve it. Thanks to Charlie Arnold, Gregg Hull, and Chris Ryan for all their hard work. I've also included underneath the original, for your comparison, on the better performance.

Times Square

2009-03-13T20:58:00.001-07:00

Well I just spent the evening walking around Times Square, I saw, a really touching moment, as a couple that had to say good bye as they went on two different subways embraced each other before their departure. Then I sang the worship song Hosanna in the Subway, pretty sure people thought I was drunk, because of the bumpy ride I began to stumble, but as we left the subway a German girl re-sang the Hosanna song to our group, we believe she had no idea what she was singing but it did make us laugh so we applauded he efforts! Hosanna-God Saves Us

Ozark's Bathrooms

2009-03-05T09:40:00.000-08:00

I don’t know what it is, but what is the deal with nasty bathrooms? People who destroy a bathroom through Graffiti or even let's say make a mess and don't clean up after yourself, drive me insane. But all the places I've been even the self cleaning bathrooms of San Francisco, which by the way I believe is just as nasty after the cleaning as it is before the cleaning, nothing holds up to the Bathroom's at Ozark. I mean the bathrooms at our school are immaculate. They are the type of restrooms that those who will only use their restrooms at home based on cleanliness would even take a second take. Now there are no restrooms with out fault we do have one on campus that has a little graffiti although I find it amazing that even this mark in one stall happens to be an evangelistic joke (found in the Downstairs Men's Chapel Restroom). Then there's the ever odd restroom in the lower missions building that has no doors for the stall's. Now I found this really amusing the first time I discovered this but thought maybe they had to replace them, now two years later, they stay the same! All I know is I enjoy using a restrooms in this College Campus, appreciate the hard work the Janitor's put into their job as well as those students who continue to use these restrooms and make sure to leave them as they found them!

My Wife Amazes and Amuses me!

2009-02-11T18:37:00.001-08:00

Here's a video my wife made of us!

The Guys are at it Again!

2009-02-10T11:21:00.000-08:00

Well here's another episode of The Guys Who Like To Eat! Oh the stories I have on these guys, wait....they have stories on me too, uh....never mind just enjoy.

Good Ol' SNL

2009-02-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

Another great episode from the Guys who like to eat!

2009-01-10T20:49:00.001-08:00

Check out the Pregnant Video

2009-01-06T21:40:00.000-08:00

Hey for all of those of you who want to keep up with the baby blog go check out the video when Tiff found out!!! www.babysolorio.blogspot.com

Baby on Board!

2009-01-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

So the news is out Lito and Tiffany are expecting a child!!! So go check out the new blog dedicated solely to the baby and our adventures in preparing. Also be aware thatr some of the youtube videos on there we can't recall our password so you wont be able to watch them until we return to Joplin on Jan. 5th to unlock them, thanks for all your prayers!!!

www.babysolorio.blogspot.com

The Guys Who Like to Eat!!!

2008-12-14T22:33:00.000-08:00

Gamer Tag

2008-11-07T19:24:00.000-08:00

Put your gamertag here too.

Halloween!!!

2008-10-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

As Halloween approaches I thought I'd think of some of the more enjoyable costumes and people I've been. Like when I didn't want to be Superman because I didn't realize I had to wear tights, and I thought in fourth grade only girls wore tights. So I became a Tax Collector. Then the years I was a Ninja Turtle, Batman, Superman, Robin Hood, Prince Charming. Those were some good times. What was your favortie costume and if you have a pic show the world right here.

Death of Superman!!!

2008-10-24T20:38:00.001-07:00

One of SNL's best Skits ever. (This is coming from the huge Superman Fan)

Funeral For a Friend. Superman s Funeral.

Comic Con Star Wars Connection!!!

2008-10-04T08:12:00.001-07:00

Here are some peeps I got to meet all connected to Star Wars in some way or another!!!

This is the actress who played Aayla Secura in Star Wars Episodes I & II
This is what she looked like in the films. (Below)

Now the infamous General Grievous from Episode III

Now this is Elvis Trooper an old friend from the Ultimate Star Wars Fan Fresno was looking for, where Tiff and I got to see the World Premiere of Star Wars Episode III. But still one of the most recognizable Star Wars Fans out there.

Now this is Steve Sansweet, he has the largest Star Wars collection of anyone in the world. He just happen to be standing there when Tiff and I walked by and I couldn't pass up a picture oppurtunity.

Now in the center of this pic is the Apprentice from the New Star Wars game The Force Unleashed he was there to promote his role in Smallville this season. I love it when my two favorite things come together.

Clone Wars!!!

2008-10-03T16:39:00.001-07:00

Well once again Star Wars is about to deliver. If you haven't seen the Clone Wars Animated Movies no worries you can start watching the Series tonight on Cartoon Network. I loved the Movie and the show is getting rave reviews so check it out tonight I believe at 8pm.

Who makes you laugh?

2008-08-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

I wanted to allow for people to share stories of those who make you laugh. This was spurred on by a friend of mine who always enjoyed making people laugh. I remember on countless occasions he had this go to joke when people weren't laughing, which caused for a little preperation on his part. He would actually wear pajama pants under his jeans so when ever he was not causing the extreme laughter he preferred he would drop his pants (no worries now he had pajama pants on) but this would always cause shock followed by complete laughter. Now what I want are your stories. Share them here as you think of those who make you laugh.

Lito & Tiff through the years!

2008-08-24T15:01:00.001-07:00

New Classes!!!

2008-08-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

So school started this week and I have to say I think it's one of my most exciting semester's at Ozark thus far. I have Apologetics, Expos. Preaching, Hebrews, Pastoral Counseling, Church History, and Creative Teaching. All and all some amazing classes with amazing Professors. For instance we I sat in my Expos. class on Friday and Mark Scott preached a recent sermon of his and had us critique him, well through out his sermon I think I wanted to recommit my life to Christ like 3 times. I then spent the next hour talking with my Apologetics Prof. Andrew Kirschner about Star Wars and Superman for an hour as he's just an older version of me. Now I am reading a book for class I find really engaging call Doctrine that Dances by Robert Smith. Great book if your interested in Preaching. Hope next semester is just as good if not better.

Pony on a Porch!

2008-08-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

So as Tiffany and I were driving to a small church in Commerce, OK I was going over my sermon in my head. Tiffany and I started discussing issues in life that always come to mind on these long drives. Then all of a sudden I drive by a house where there was this pony just standing on the porch. I couldn't help but laugh out and quickly ask Tiff if she caught that. Sadly she did not. Well it is the mid-west.

Another relaxing day!!!

2008-08-12T17:54:00.000-07:00

Well, in one week school starts up again and I'm enjoying the peace before things get really busy. As I reflect on the summer and where God's taken Tiffany and I can only say we are truly blessed. I think of times growing up and never believing that God would reach out and be so evident and genorous in his blessings. I go into my third year at Ozark with complete thankfulness of my church in Clovis and all those who have taken care of Tiffany and I so that we could grow and learn to be everything God wants us to be. Praise the Lord. Now with that said I expect a full attack from Satan.

Summer Intern Video!!!

2008-08-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Jack Bauer, HobGoblin, General Grievious, Brian (The Dog from Family Guy)

2008-07-25T23:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a day I had no idea that Tiffany and I would get a chance to meet Kefer Sutherland. We were at the right place at the right time at comic con when they handed out little pieces of paper to allow us to get in a special line to meet him. Right before that I met Seth McFarlane where he signed a Poster that has Stewie Griffin playing with Star Wars toys, meaning a sequel is coming out of their hilarious Star Wars spoof from last year, "Blue Harvest."
The biggest thrill came of the night when Tiff, Serena, Joe, and I were walking downtown in San Diego and Joe hits me and says, "Hey that's the Hob Goblin from Spiderman!" I freaked and couldn't believe it so I slowly made my way to him as he was surrounded by an entourage of his pals. I walked up to him and couldn't intrude into his conversation so I was walking right next to him for awhile. I finally found a chance to wisper, "Hey can my wife and I get a pic with you?" So laid back he said, "Yeah." It was obvious he didn't want to make a scene and I stupidly yelled, "Hey TIFF GET OVER HERE!" He played it cool Serena took the pic and he got away unnoticed. It was awesome. Day two is looking awesome, I also met the voice of General Grievous from Star Was. It's been a great day!!! Looking forward for tomorrow when I get to hang out with my brother, his wife, and one of my oldest Friends Ashely Penir. Peace!

In one day!!!

2008-07-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

So in the course of one day my wife and I slept on the streets of Downtown San Diego, (not for any Christian experiment.) Followed by eating cold Jack in the Box with my wife. Then right around noon I made Keanu Reeves laugh as I told him I loved him from the third row at Comic Con. Then I saw Mark Walberg, then made Hugh Jackman laugh right before showing the new Wolverine Movie Trailer, then getting some smiles from Robert Pattinson and his co-star Kristen where they play Edward and Bella in the soon to be released Twilight. Then got my hands on the Dec. release video game Star Wars Clone Wars where the Lightsaber moves by the Wii controller, sweet. (Yesterday I played the game I'm really looking forward to Star Wars Force Unleashed coming out in two months.) Finally it's time to take a nap with my wife the one thing I've truly been looking forward to all day. Peace!

SOS Day 4

2008-07-17T20:42:00.001-07:00

Thursday has finally allowed me to see the hearts of the students in my group. I always love trips that cause you to grow with other people. It seems I've heard it said more recently that Youth trips will come and go but you will never be with the exact same group ever again, there will always be someone added or removed from any future trip. It appears that I can see what God would want from me when I raise my own future children whether it be how I discipline or how I love and teach them. I love how this week as a little more goofing off occured when I lovingly corrected their folly of missing opputunities to serve they understood where I was coming from that I still respected and loved them and soon after we were serving togther with perfect unity. Often I have to evaluate whether I'm too strict, I think I may not know until my own kids grow up to be adults if I am too strict or not.
This week has also opened my own eyes to where I need some more growth. I only want to be able to be thrown by God into any situation and serve Him with all my heart. Every camp I ever go to I see that we spend so much time with God and it allows us to hear God so clearly then as weeks pass at camp we seem to lose that closeness. I know I need to keep that daily relationship focused on Him. I look forward to Ozark Christian Colleges Chapel services being mandatory for this one thing to keep me focused and thinking about Him even more.

SOS Day 3

2008-07-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

Well day 3 came and went in a flash. The students were only working for half the day and they had the rest of the time off to enjoy a pool party, movie, and Dinner. I was really excited because our students worked at lightening speeds getting a lot accomplished.
I was exhausted and felt that I needed some sort of break and God answered with an oppurtunity to play some Halo 3 at the family's house while the children swam. We had more than enough leaders swimming and watching the students. I would have enjoyed cooling off with a swim but had forgotten my swim suit any ways.
Eventually we made it to the theatres and Tiffany joined us as we watched The Incredible Hulk for a second time. Sometimes movies aren't good a second time but this movie really delivered. I have so many people come to me and say that they heard it was mediocre. It surprises me because Tiff and I thought it was up there with one of the better action movies of the summer. Of course the movie ended and much of our students came up to me with similar positive opinions of the film.
Then we made it to dinner and Tiff and I got to take a picture of me in front of the resturant "Happy Mexican." (I took a pic that I hopefully will put on the blog.) The evening started quiteting down once we returned and many students needed a mid-week break that Wednesday provided.

SOS Day 2

2008-07-16T05:32:00.000-07:00

As we entered day two of our service over self. The 8th grade boys in our group decided that working hard would be their number one goal that day. As we began the day's work the students had been told of a student Justin that was just down the street playing basketball. The students began playing with him and as I talked with the students later I witnessed a desire to love Justin in the hearts of these students. When playing with Justin they were saddened that he had a flat basketball and a basketball hoop that had a destroyed backboard with holes. One student said, "Lito, I'll buy him a basketball." What an amazing heart to want to reach out and meet the needs of others.
As we sat there we noticed the house we were working on had a basketball hoop the only thing missing was a rim. Now we had to ask the homeowner to have it and we would clean it up ask Justin to put the rim on our backboard and give it to him. The students rallied with an excitement. It's as if they put himself into the shoes of Justin. If they didn't have a basketball hoop or ball the would appreciate someone reaching out to them with this gift in love. We had permission to take the hoop. We cleaned it prepared it for delivery. Finally, as we took the hoop we were immediatly told by the homeowner they didn't want us to give the hoop to the boy and we needed to bring it back. My heart broke that she would continue this vicious cycle of not loving your neighbor. The students felt a little deafeted as well.
We then talked with Justin about setting up the hoop in front of her house and to play with us while we were there. The students still wanted to reach out to Justin. later we had found out an SOS worker had delievered Justin a basketball and he was playing with his new inflatted ball. The students are at such a pivotal age where they need to see people who will reach out in love but even witnessing the times that someone doesn't love may even help them see that there are some people who need Jesus to change their calloused heart. I just pray that the students here would not continue to hit road blocks that would cause them to develop calloused hearts as well.

Service Over Self Day 1

2008-07-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

Well day one has started with our Service over self mission trip in Binghampton. What a great oppurtunity for our students at Christ United Methodist to experince their relationship with God by looking past their safe economic friendly homes to see the people in their city that are hungry and hurting for Christ. Many will never know the impact they have on the people in this community but I hope that the students don't lose thier excitment for loving people becuase I can see that after our BigStuf trip they quickly went into the Me attitude again. I love these students so much and see the same mistakes I made when I was their age and want them to keep reaching for Christ and not the next academic accalade.
Yet, while I sound discouraging, I was really impressed with a student Alex who reached out to a homeowner while we were building a ramp for here house. He just came up to me and said, "Can I go talk to her." I was so excited to hear that response of love. It reminded me of Mary and Martha. Some of us have skills in good old fashion hard work while others need to build relationships with people. When watching students who are willing to serve God I can only say Praise be to God!

The Force is about to be Unleashed!!!

2008-07-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, I just witnessed the trailer of the new Star Wars Video Game. I believe that this is the game that is going to forever change video games, check out the trailer here. http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1137819692/bclid1155151521/bctid1655717469

Fear and Faith!!!

2008-07-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

I recently read some thoughts that really got me thinking, and evaluating my own walk with God as I try to imitate him and to step forward and share my own faith. It also causes me to want to trust more in him in all decisions I make and those Christians around me that I could encourage as they walk with the Lord.

"It has been often said that fear is the opposite of faith. As faith motivates us toward something, fear makes us cover away from it. Faith is ourselves is key to all endeavors; fear of failure often leads to not trying something in the first place. Faith in God frees us to talk about Him; fear of man keeps our mouths shut worrying about what others think. Faith liberates. Fear incapacitates"
-Jesus Freaks Vol. II pg. 63

What caused me to really dwell on this was the fact that I have no problem shouting silly statements to get a response from people yet as outgoing as I am there are times I shy away from sharing the gospel. WHY?!!! I am a follower of THE LIVING GOD. I am in love with him why fear anything. My faith as of late has been under pressure. I felt it was easier to live for God when I knew less. Maybe it's because I lived at a Christian Camp and I have so many times being bored that I would climb a mountain to have my quiet time. Today I find other things to fill my time when I could find ways to worship God and stay connected everyday to that faith in Christ. It's not that I sometimes have faith and sometimes don't it's that I sometimes I'm more faithful than others.

"So don't be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner. Take your share of suffering for the Message along with the rest of us. We can only keep on going, after all, by the power of God, who first saved us and then called us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it. But we know it now. Since the appearance of our Savior, nothing could be plainer: death defeated, life vindicated in a steady blaze of light, all through the work of Jesus." -2 Tim. 1:8-9 THE MESSAGE

Flight 815

2008-06-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

So since the end of May my wife and I have been going through the interesting tale of Lost. We had always heard the hype and talk that it was one of the best shows on television and knew that we would enjoy it, since a friend got us hooked on J.J. Abrams last hit with Alias. But we didn't know that the show would captivate us. Sometimes we wonder if they even know where thier going with some story lines but then 12 episodes later it all connects and makes perfect sense as if they had gone to the future to see their end result and fix any errors as so many shows do with leaving certain things left unexplained. Now we only have a few more episodes of Season 4 and have just about caught up in a series people have been indulging in for the past four years. Because of my sudden involvement in the show I have a tendency as I sit at the pool out side of my apartment that everytime a plane flies by I stay focused on it a little longer than normal as if waiing for something to happen. A morbid thought if your into the show but one that the creators of this show have caused an investment to believe it's happened.

2008-06-19T16:00:00.001-07:00

Star Wars Clone Wars

2008-06-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

As the date for the new Star Wars Cartoon gets closer I'm actually really pumped for it. I don't think I knew how excited I was until the recent trailer. Being a huge fan of the movies I enjoyed the last cartoons Star Wars has put out but had no idea that they would take cartoons into this level with other feature films. Cartoons like the Incredibles, Ratatouille, and the trailer of Wall-E are stepping it up big time for adults to want to watch as well.

WALL-E Showing for all Christ Students!!!

2008-06-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

On July 1st after Random Lunch Club we will all be seeing Wall-E at the Paridiso. Questions Call us at the Youth Department! P.S. Also remember The Redbirds game on June 30th!!!!

Preparing for the Augusta Choir

2008-06-18T14:24:00.000-07:00

So I'm sitting with a few Jr. High Students over my shoulder. As they look at thier ballons they made with all the interns names on them, I wonder why any one would want to do any other job than ministry. Currently we are preparing for the Augusta Choir as we will listen to them perform, have dinner with them, and play on some really fun inflatables. As a reminder we will not be having the intern lead Bible Studies next week on Jun 25th.

Don't mess with the Zohan!!!

2008-06-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

I'm sad to report that I thought Zohan could have been a little better. Tiff and I walked out of it because it had to much sexual humor. So I highly discourage people to see it.

Friends

2008-06-04T09:35:00.001-07:00

What is it with friends that are willing to do anything to make you laugh? I find that my closest friends would pretty much do anything just short of taking their life to make me laugh everything from wearing wierd things to taking odd pictures.

Catch Phrase

2008-06-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

"EXCUUUSE ME, I'll be Back, I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse, and Show me the money!" What makes a catch phrase? So many movies create these iconic lines that seem to stick with us. I recently have even seen Youth Groups have their own phrases or even thier own games that they all are fimiliar with. It's as if they each have their own finger print.

What originally spawned this thought was the excitement that came from repeating a certain phrase. As students were entering the youth room I was given the responsibility to let them know where the food was. Well we had chicken this evening and I began telling everyone there's "Chicken in the Gym." It then started to turn into a mini rap that didn't have much accept the repeating line, "Chicken in the Gym, Chicken in the Gym, watcha gonna do to that Chicken in the Gym?" Followed by the reponse (from the students), "Eat it?!" I began to ponder that a few summers ago a very similar event occured when myself and some students were eating corn. Some how we began a song that involved, "Butter on the Corn!"

Now I don't know if catch phrases can be forced but they seem to offer memories of events of our Life. For me I think of moments that involve everything from Toilet Paper Ninjas to Poke-A-Pine give so much great memories of my youth groups years as well as humorous catch phrases that no one knows except for a select few.
If you have some stories of catch phrases share your stories and thoughts.

Memphis is like no other!!!

2008-06-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, so far what an experince. Tiffany and I have been getting use to all the kindness and of course the southern hospitality. It' s like nothing I've experienced. People I've met across the country have never been rude by any means it's just that there is something different a good different. I believe because I've my experince from Cali I questioned if it was legit or not. But so far people are really genuine. And Beale street was entertaining. Tiff and I were walking down the street when all of a sudden she say's, "Hey, there's a guy flipping down the street!" I casually looked up to my surprise to find just that. I thought it was really strange but the same way we have Jack Sparrow wannabes walking in Hollywood they have "Flippers."

2008-05-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

CursedMidnight.

Starting the Blogging Revolution!!!

2008-04-04T20:50:00.000-07:00

So I recently thought to myself, "Self?" Why aren't you blogging yet? I am constantly reading others and thought that I should take the time to do so. I no longer want to miss out on the oppurtunities to let the world now what is happening from Jacen Solo (currently in the second Legacy of the Force Book, I'm reading) to Why Jesus is always on my mind and is constantly challenging me. Well for now I hope I can sort all this out till then Via Con Dios.

Leaving Las Fresno

2007-10-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Well Tiff and I took our overpriced U-Haul and made our way to the fabulous Las Vegas. The gas prices were insane as we made it to Las Vegas. Tiffany found the gas prices hilarious and couldn't help but take a pic.

After we got to the motel we thought it would be fun to see the strip Tiffany's place of birth for those of you not in the know.

Our first stop was the Peppermill kinda of a Neon infected Denny's and they had the FireGrill in the Back a really romantic place for snacks we had the Sampler.

We then had a sleep in day since we were so tired from packing and driving the day earlier. We started making our way out of Las Vegas when our beautiful Cats Lois and Clark started to seem fussy so, we took them to thier first Vet visit for sleeping pills Thanks to Gary Olsby for the tip. We ended up finding a Vet, in the same town Tiffany spent the first couple years of her life. Henderson, NV.

The funny story is that Lois and Clark both had to have thier temparature taken. Clark seemed fine when they did the Rectal Thermomator, well the moment Lois felt something she immediatly leapt into the air and decided to attach her claws deep into my flesh. Well I wasn't too happy but Lois wasn't going to let them take her temp. She's a fighter.

We then stopped at this delicious Mexican Food place, it reminded me of Maria's Taco Shop back home in Fresno on Shaw and West, it was mmMM Good.

Yet I was still hungry so I took a big bite out of this hotdog.

That was the best Human Size Hotdog I've ever had. Yes, I've had more than one.

We were excited because we were going to go over Hoover Dam and niether one of us had ever been and we took this picture overlooking the Lake.

Then we started going through the check point and they wouldn't let us through because they needed to see the back of our very packed U-Haul. So we had a crazy detour. Then stayed the night in FlagStaff. I got a little hungry that night and almost ate Lois.

That next day was one of Tiffany's and My favorites as we checked out Meteor Crater. Apparently they say a Meteor hit it Millions of years ago I think it would be funny if God just left a thumb print to through all the scientist off. Because they can't find where the Meteor is from the Crater. Creepy????!!!!

That's my Beautiful Gal.

After this we tried to drive pretty much through New Mexico We realized it wasn't to much better than the First one. So next time we will take you through what we've been doing in the INFAMOUS.....

My Favorite Videos

2007-06-03T15:18:00.000-07:00