Talented

This Syrian camel driver knows how to do it. While laying down on the top of the camel, he smokes a cigarette and talks on his mobile phone. That's what I call talent. This was taken in Palmyra, Syria.

Talented Originally uploaded by whatnext.

Yes, I Was Away...

...And I'm still recovering from a 17-day excursion to the Middle East. I joined several of my classmates and others for a trek through Syria, Jordan, and Israel. I made over 1,000 photographs during the trip, and it will take awhile to sort through them all. I have a few favorites posted over on Flickr. Over the next several days I will also publish them here with more extensive commentary.

The big takeaway from this trip was the imagery. I will not be able to read the Bible in the same fashion as before. The Sea of Galilee is now permanently etched into my mind's eye. Scripture readings about places now take on the textures, smells, and colors that were previously unavailable to my imagination. What a wonderful trip.

And now, 2006

Originally uploaded by AlmaZ.

As the Year Comes to a Close...

... I want to wish all readers of :: What Next? :: a very Happy New Year.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And never brought to mind
Should auld acquaintaince be forgot
And auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

And surely you'll be your pint stowp
And surely I'll be mine,
And we'll drink a richt guid willy waught
For auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

We twa hae run aboot the braes
And pu'd the gowans fine,
But we've wandered monie a wearie fit'
Since auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

We twa hae paidled in the burn
Frae morning sun till dine
But seas a'tween us braid hae roared
Since auld lang syne

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

And here's a hand my trusty fere
And gie's a hand o' thine
And we'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne.

New Neighborhood Hangout

Finally, there is a coffee shop within walking distance of my parent's home in Salt Lake City!

Highland Perk is located at 1588 East Stratford Avenue, and sits amidst a tiny shopping area that's been around since before I was born. Shops have come and gone here, but I suspect that this one is a keeper. Barbara the barista provided me with excellent service. Highland Perk also features a nice selection of pastries and other drinks. Highly recommended! Phone: (801) 466-PERK.

Merry Christmas!

Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ, whose nativity we celebrate today.

Enjoy this photo of my father reading the funnies in today's Salt Lake Tribune. The hole is not the result of anything we did - the paper came that way. Christmas kudos to the Tribune for their excellent quality control.

Tithe

Seen in the seminary parking lot. A fun image on multiple levels.