danis linus

200th Post... and the Last..

2008-04-09T11:12:00.003-04:00

This is my 200th Post on Blogger and my last. The new www.DanisLinus.com has launched so head there. Also, I just realized that I had two different feed links here on Blogger. One through Blogger (which will no longer be active) and one through Feedburner. So, if you are a subscriber... first of all, thank you. Second, please check your feed to reflect the address below. Thanks.

http://feeds.feedburner.com/DanisLinus

We did London right!

2008-03-12T20:07:00.003-04:00

85 new pics...
and a one-minute recap...

...more to come.

New DanisLinus coming soon...

2008-03-10T06:59:00.003-04:00

I know it's been a while especially compared to my previous posting rate but we have a monthly limit on our wireless broadband. A new and improved Danis Linus is coming soon and I'm redoubling my commitment to sharing life. So, sitting here in Derry City Airport waiting to go London I thought I'd launch out... introducing... www.youtube.com/danatchison. Much love.

BTW... updated the Flickr as well. Enjoy.

Flickr Update - The Wall

2008-02-14T16:02:00.003-05:00

Tons of new pics from our walk around The Wall in Derry this afternoon. Check 'em out... and Happy Valentine's Day from Derry, Northern Ireland.

The Story of Adi Dassler

2008-02-13T07:35:00.007-05:00

Stop motion work has always amazed me. Whether it's Wallace and Grommit or the lightpainting by LICHTFAKTOR from Germany, the artistry and skill necessary are astounding. That's why I love the new site by Adidas which tells the story of Adidas and Adi Dassler. Hit the jump to watch the film and explore Adi's workshop.
What the film does not tell however is the fascinating story of the split between Adi and his older brother Rudolph Dassler. The split between these two Nazi party members apparently occurred over a misunderstanding in a bomb shelter.

"During the war, a growing rift between the pair reached breaking point, after an Allied bomb attack in 1943 when Adi and his wife climbed into a bomb shelter that Rudolf and his family were already in. 'The dirty bastards are back again,' Adi said, apparently referring to the Allied war planes, but Rudolf was convinced his brother meant him and his family. After Rudolf was later picked up by American soldiers and accused of being a member of the Waffen SS, he was convinced that his brother had turned him in."

In 1948, the brothers split their business, when Rudi left the high hill for the other side of the Aurach river: Adolf called his firm Adidas after his nick name; Rudolf started his own little shoe company... now known as Puma.

Bedroom in a Box

2008-02-13T07:23:00.004-05:00

This isn't really practical for a family man such as myself but for those singles out there who tend to move around quite a bit, this might just be for you. As regulars to DanisLinus know, I love great design and this is great design. Introducing the Casulo. "Designed by Marcel Krings and Sebastian Mühlhäuser, the small box unpacks into bed, desk, seating, book shelf and wardrobe."

via Yanko Design and PSFK

In Northern Ireland thinking of Uganda and Louisiana

2008-02-13T06:48:00.004-05:00

I have a lot going on in my life right now. Not really externally but inside. But this morning, as I washed the dishes in our extra small sink while Ben played and Maria slept, I couldn't help but think and pray about two things far, far away and really not connected to my world at all.

If you've ever checked my blog roll then you know there are some bloggers in Uganda right now on behalf of Compassion International. The question is: can blogging change the world? Well, Flowerdust, Ragamuffin Soul, Spence Smith, Randy Elrod, and others set about to find out. The Blog Team is in Uganda to see Compassion's work firsthand. Read their up-to-the-minute blogs up until February 18th. I'm always humbled by how much we have considering how little so many others have. And so this morning my thoughts were in Uganda...

...and Louisiana. Yes, Louisiana. I don't know much about Bethany World Prayer Center. I've heard some of their worship CDs and the pastor of Church of the Highlands where we attend in B'ham is from there. Other than that, I'm not very familiar with them. But this week, I've received several emails and saw on a couple blogs that Joel Stockstill's wife, Amy, passed away from cancer. And so, my thoughts were far, far away again and focused on a family who must be hurting.

We all have "stuff" going on in our lives but never so much that we can't consider others even those we don't know. I think that's why Paul said, "each man should look not only to his own interests but also the interests of others."

Jesus Greater Than...

2008-02-13T06:34:00.005-05:00

Came across this site a few months back but didn't really explore it until today. www.jesusgreaterthan.org is a new organization that raises awareness to issues they believe critical.

We are trying to answer the cries of the oppressed by taking action.

They accomplish this through various campaigns. For instance, all the proceeds of Jesus>Poverty go to Compassion International. Jesus>War funds go into a special scholarship for children who have lost parents in war. Jesus>Thirst to build wells in Kenya.

I love the concept of it all but on a personal level it reminds me that Christ is greater than anything I could ever face.

Jesus>Fear
Jesus>Death
Jesus>Sin
Jesus>Failure
Jesus>Hurt

Be honest, what is it in your life that you need to be reminded that Jesus is greater than?

In case you didn't notice my Twitter...

2008-02-13T06:01:00.005-05:00

I know I said I'd get back at it last Wednesday but we've been getting settled at "41 Manorwood" and just now got internet at the house. We're doing incredible and enjoying our time together. The people here have been so gracious and amazing.

Pics tell the story better. Check back often at www.flickr.com/danatchison

And we're off!

2008-02-04T09:31:00.000-05:00

DanisLinus will return to it's regularly scheduled programming on Wednesday, February 6th, live from Derry, Northern Ireland ... thanks for the love and prayers.

Water Tower House

2008-02-02T13:39:00.001-05:00

I guess the Dutch are really into converting and renovating old non-residential structures into dwelling places. First the old church, and now this old water tower. Check out the pics and click to enlarge...

via Materialicio.us

Besides a traditional house, what old structure would you choose to convert and live in? And a big shoe doesn't count...

Time Stands Still at Grand Central

2008-02-02T12:03:00.000-05:00

In the words of Chris Farley, "I've seen a lot of things in my life, but that was awesome!" Improv Everywhere's latest stunt is extremely clever if for no other reason than it's subtlety. Much more subtle than their previous stunt 3 weeks ago where over 2000 people in 10 cities took their pants off on subways around the world simultaneously.

This time, a much smaller 200 people made time stand still at Grand Central Station in New York City... for five minutes. "Improv Everywhere Agents froze in place at the exact same second in the Main Concourse of Grand Central Station. Over 500,000 people rush through Grand Central every day, but today, things slowed down just a bit as commuters and tourists alike stopped to notice what was happening around them."
Check it out...

In Honor of Super Bowl XLII

2008-02-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

Some MC Hammer commercial love - Pepsi 1991

Santa Fe Cattle Co... Its ok... Just ok. ???

2008-01-31T11:03:00.000-05:00

That's what I Twittered last night while at dinner with my family. On the surface, no big deal right? I mean by all normal standards I was just tossing out there in Twitterland for everyone to know that Santa Fe is just average. It's not Bern's or anything.

Funny (meaning sad) how we get so used to living a certain way compared to the rest of the world that our whole frame of reference changes (meaning it's incredibly screwed up). So, I'm standing there in worship last night at Highlands and I can't stop thinking about my Twitter. It bothered me because when we sit down to eat, we really do pause and thank God that we have food to eat... that we actually have food to eat. I mean I left the place full... more full than I should have and the only thing I have to say is it was "just ok." Most of the world would give anything for "just ok." And so standing there at Highlands, I couldn't stop thanking God for all I've been given...

When I'm hungry, I go to the refrigerator and there is an abundance of food. I can choose whatever I want.

When it rains, I have shelter for me and my family.

When it's cold, I have heat and warm clothes.

My shoes have good soles and that's just one of many, many, far too many pairs.

I have a laptop I'm typing this on that costs more than most people earn in a decade.

We drove a car to church last night and made it there safely...

...then my son walked through the doors to a massive indoor playground and had a blast while my wife and I got our Starbucks coffee.

I could complain that our house is not selling but at least we have a house that isn't selling.

I could complain about the drop in the market but at least we have stock that is falling.

I could complain about losing my my precious Josiah to an ugly disease but I'm thankful he's not dead but rather alive and in a place that has been graciously provided by my Heavenly Father and He is keeping him safe until one day we can be together again...

...and the hope of "being together again" has even been provided to me, my wife and Ben by that same generous and loving Savior.

And so, I'd like to revise my previous Twitter from last night...

Santa Fe Cattle Co... What a gift to sit here with my beautiful family and share a meal together. What a God that's so generous and loving...

Fill in the blanks... "I could complain about _________ but instead __________...."

RS - Rock List: Readers' Best Eighties Movie Themes

2008-01-29T22:18:00.000-05:00

Gotta love it! I was just checking my music feeds and Rolling Stone posted up the Best Eighties Movie Themes. Personally, it's a toss up between #5 - Joe Esposito's "You're the Best Around" from Karate Kid and #23 - OMD's "If You Leave" from Pretty in Pink. Of course, two songs scored from the greatest soundtrack of one of my favorite movies of the decade... Top Gun. But just in case you need a little more to get you to hit the jump, here's the top of the list at #25 - Starship's "We Built this City" from Mannequin 2.

Which 80's ditty gets you going?

U2... up close and very personal

2008-01-29T20:24:00.001-05:00

I know I promised this earlier so here it is... Everything I've read about U23D: The Movie is right on. "Everything" being rave reviews... giving it five stars... all that. Incredible... awesome... amazing... immersive... Ok, enough with the ambiguous adjectives.

It's not your normal 3D experience where the filmmakers attempt to startle you with hokey gimmicks and corny effects. There's simply a crisp realism in the shots and after the first song or two, you feel as though you are "there." So much so, that at one point I literally moved my head so I could see around some offensive object obstructing my view... The Edge's mic stand. When I caught myself, I had to laugh.

I appreciated the fact that the camera gave equal airtime to all members of the band. One moment you are closeup with Bono or posing with Adam Clayton and the next you are looking over The Edge's shoulder at 80,000 screaming fans. This in itself is a departure from the much smaller arena venues played here in North America and amazingly translates to a relatively small room with a capacity of only 400.

The film was shot entirely during the South America leg of the Vertigo tour and the crowds really brought the concert to life. Bono also played on the fact that he was South of the Equator by singing several lines in Spanish including the entire bridge of Beautiful Day.

Our particular viewing at the Channelside IMAX theatre in Tampa had some real fans. During the show, you could hear people singing along and at times even clapping which seemed completely normal even though we were in a theatre. At one point, my wife even stood up and no one seemed to give attention.

The set is similar to the Chicago DVD with some welcome variations including Bono singing the opera which completely blew me away. I've never really cared much for Atomic Bomb's Love and Peace but this one made me a believer. Some of the visuals during the song were incredible including Bono lightpainting with his finger which appeared to be right in your face.

In short, it's an experience all it's own. It's not a mere concert film and it's not a live experience either. You're all over the place in the stadium. The only complaint I have (if you can call it that) is that I wished the editor would have lingered on some of the shots a bit longer so we could take it all in. The cuts were a bit fast and I found myself really wanting to drink in the entire scope of some of the wider shots. Other than that, it's an outstanding and groundbreaking piece of work. If you are within an hour or two drive, make the effort... it's def worth it. Here's a little teaser I took for you from the iPhone of my favorite member, Adam Clayton... not that it'll do you any good without the glasses.

I gotta get me some SpeedLegs...

2008-01-29T16:59:00.000-05:00

I love my Pumas. In fact, I'm wearing my white and green ones right now. I gotta say, the new SpeedLegs are sweet though. The only problem is that I'll have to wait until 2178 A.D. to score a pair.

I've posted here before about Puma's incredible ability to build community around their product and gain brand loyalty. And, this new ad campaign makes me love them even more. The visuals are ubersweet and the punchline is incredibly clever. Now if my boys in blue could just get some of these, they wouldn't be behind Man U and Arsenal. Check it out...

Is it wrong to love a shoe this much?

In Honor of the LEGO 50th Anniversary

2008-01-29T12:36:00.000-05:00

I know I'm a couple days late on this one but I've been out of town and away from the Mac. I've posted before about LEGO bricks and how much I loved them as a kid and so I couldn't let this one go. This week, LEGO celebrated it's 50th Anniversary. The word comes from the Danish phrase leg godt, which means "play well." Click the timeline above for some creative inspiration but if you really want to be moved head over to The Brick Testament.

The site claims to be the world's largest, most comprehensive illustrated Bible. With over 3,600 illustrations that retell more than 300 stories from The Bible, this "one-man labor of love" borders sacrilege at times but is fun for the most part. The shot below is the raising of Lazarus from the dead. via Jess Potter

The Coldest Places on Earth

2008-01-27T11:40:00.000-05:00

After having spent the last decade in places like Los Angeles and Clearwater, I discovered something about myself. I'm such an incredible wuss when it comes to cold weather. And Alabama has been quite cold. I forgot how cold it was. Last week, we had snow. It was Ben's first and didn't quite know what to do with himself (I've posted up a couple pics on Flickr as promised).

Anyway, after reading this article it only reinforced what an incredible wuss I am. Try for example, the Snag airstrip in Yukon, Canada which recorded the lowest temp in North America on February 3rd, 1947... -81.4°F (-63°C). At this temp, voices of people can be heard up to four miles away since "frozen breath" hangs in the air for up to fifteen minutes. Honestly, that's just weird. via Digg

So, to remedy this situation, we're spending some time in Northern Ireland... yeah, that makes sense, I know. Actually, it's not bad there... 10 degrees warmer than here although wet. Still beats -63°C. (Notice the use of Celsius... like a good Irish boy should.)

Food Fight

2008-01-27T11:21:00.000-05:00

I've only been in a couple of real food fights in my life. The best one was in Master's in our singlewide (yes, we lived in a singlewide). Something having to do with chocolate cake and... well, I won't go into it. This short film by Stefan Nadelman trumps them all though. The filmmaker presents a brief history of war, from WWII to present day, told through the foods of the countries in conflict.

Watching brought an internal conflict of my own. This incredibly creative if not disconcerting short is hilarious and yet events portrayed are anything but. As my good friend Steven pointed out... it's food so there's no one to get angry with. I must say that the Cold War buildup was my favorite.

Watch below and see how many countries and conflicts you can identify first. Then head on over to the official site and take a look at the cheat sheet. How'd you do?

Disclaimer #2 for the day: As odd as it sounds being just food and all... this film is a bit graphic so consider yourself warned.

I've been told I need to blog more...

2008-01-27T10:52:00.000-05:00

Well starting February 4th, I'll be blogging from God's country... Northern Ireland that is. Maria, Ben, and I are spending 11 weeks in Derry with our great friends Andrew and Isa. No we're not living with them (talk about inconsiderate houseguests). We'll have our own place that has been generously provided for us. Ecclesiastes says there's a time for everything and this is the time for healing and rest in our lives. We're so thankful to God for each other and for those willing to walk along side and be a voice.

Somewhere a long the line we fall prey to the belief that pastors don't need pastoring themselves. We wouldn't admit that out loud but isn't that a bit like Craig Groeschel's Practical Atheism. We would never say it with our mouth but our actions and attitudes convey it. We don't believe it's true... that pastors don't need pastoring but we live as though it were. I've been guilty of it... Caving to the pressure of being something I'm not. And, I suspect that you are guilty of it as well. Either for yourself if you are a pastor or for those of you that follow one. And so, only a few weeks into 2008, I'm keeping my New Year's resolution... to let people walk beside us and help us.

Speaking of New Year's resolutions... did you set any (whether you wrote them down or called them that)... what were they?... and honesty, how are you doing with them?

BTW... this little jaunt across the pond means I'll be updating my Flickr a bit more as well... so hit me up. Much love.

Disclaimer: Yes, I realize the above pic was taken at Powerscourt which is actually in the Republic not The North. I just like it best, that's all.

Home Church?

2008-01-23T18:44:00.000-05:00

"The decline in church attendance over the last several decades has meant that countless churches across the Netherlands have lost their function. A dutch firm named Zecc has converted an old chapel into an apartment, carefully respecting and enhancing the character of the original building. "

Before... After...
Thoughts?

The PlayPump

2008-01-19T13:01:00.000-05:00

via PSFK - "The PlayPump is an incredibly simple but effective invention that helps people in Africa access clean drinking water. While children are playing on a merry-go-round up to 1,400 liters of clean water can be pumped into a tank that stands seven meters above the ground. The tank’s walls are used to place ad billboards while two sides are reserved for educational messages. The revenue from ad-sales is put into the maintenance of each pump."

Space Invaders Jacket

2008-01-19T12:41:00.000-05:00

"Here’s a true fashion statement for the videogame lover who has it all. Going all out with the retro look, this jacket is emblazoned with hundreds of pixelated little alien dudes from the arcade classic, Space Invaders."

I'm loving this throwback to the 80's with a kind of Member's Only feel. Created by Scandanavian designers Junk de Luxe, this one is hard to come by. Unfortunately , the only place to find these is from Trendlovers in Denmark. So, if anyone out there speaks Danish and would like to help me out... hit me up.

AirMail

2008-01-19T12:19:00.000-05:00

Most of you have undoubtedly seen Apple's latest offering, the MacBook Air and maybe even the way Steve Jobs introduced it... in a manilla envelope. Well a couple of guys picked up on it and pretty quickly too. The new Mac doesn't ship for another week and a half and and yet the above case... yes, it's a padded case called AirMail not an actual envelope... is already in the making. Didn't take long.

Let it snow!

2008-01-19T12:16:00.000-05:00

Wow... It's been a while since I've seen this. And... it's Ben's first. Love it.

U2 3D: The Movie

2008-01-12T13:54:00.000-05:00

So I know this is old news but I'm ramping up for the release on January 23rd. Hit the jump for all the details.

Starbucks iPhone QuickOrder

2008-01-12T13:04:00.000-05:00

Check out these mockups of the new Starbucks iPhone QuickOrder system rumored to be announced next week at MacWorld. Apple filed the patents for a retail ordering system not long ago. Thus far, Apple's partnerships have been limited to music but this could open the door for all sorts of new possibilities... all with Steve Jobs and Apple getting a small slice of the pie of course. via Crave and Ragamuffin Soul

Surfing on the Thames in London

2008-01-12T12:54:00.000-05:00

"Visit London in 2011 to partake in the world’s first outdoor artificial surfing experience. It is reported that six-foot swells are set to break on the Thames at an attraction aiming to tempt the growing ranks of urban surfers. Estimated at £20 million (about $40 million), this first of its kind outdoor artificial surfing machine will try to rival the Atlantic breakers of Devon and Cornwall using cleaned river water. To create a more natural ambiance, an artificial beach with palm trees, boardwalks and rentable fire-pits and barbecues is planned for post-surf relaxation. Surfers can expect to pay £30 for an hour's session that will offer at least 10 waves per rider, each rolling more than 100 meters as the swell spreads from the dock to the wide beach. The wave machine can be set to make the surf break left and right from a central peak, allowing surfers to ride comfortably without fear of collision."

via NewLaunches and Luxury Launches

Soïa & Kyo

2008-01-12T12:50:00.001-05:00

Soïa & Kyo has some incredible coats for women this season and navigating the site is a joy. My wife could rock any of these but I think I'm gonna have to grab the Genna in red for her.

Treehouses on Steroids

2008-01-10T14:58:00.000-05:00

If you're not into camping out in the local IKEA, you may want to try one of these sexy treehouses. When I was a kid, we spent countless hours in the woods building "forts." It truly was a sad day when we went out into the woods and they were gone and I don't just meant the multiple forts we had built.... the woods were gone too. Bulldozers had come in to make room for our subdivision expansion. I still haven't gotten over it. But I can't imagine how I would have felt if we had built something as grand as these 3 Treehouses. Check it out...

"The 4TreeHouse was designed by Lukasz Kos a masters student at the University of Toronto’s School of Architecture & Design. Posing as a Japanese lantern on stilts, Kos’ creation floats within the fir trees on Lake Muskoka, Ontario, an elegant slatted structure that scales the trees and lets light radiate down it’s core."

"The Nut Room located in Germany sports a cabin in the shape of a walnut. With the eight asymmetric posts and the unusual shape, this treehouse is beautiful. German cooperative Baumraum built this one and knows how to keep imagination alive in their homes. They create treetop dwellings which integrate beautifully into their forested surroundings, and preserve the integrity of the trees that support them."

"Dustin Feider had a different vision: one that would be good for the tree, the environment and the deep human need to reconnect with nature and our primordial roots. Through his company, O2 Treehouse, Feider is out to revolutionize not merely treehouses but the entire concept of habitat. All the materials used for the treehouse are entirely recycled - and while the original O2 Sustainability Treehouse is 13 feet wide, interiors and sizes can be customized according to customer specifications."

via Freshome

IKEA opens its doors... to Mark.

2008-01-10T14:45:00.000-05:00

Mark Malkoff needed a place to stay. His NYC apartment was being fumigated and none of his friends could accommodate him because they all have tiny studios. So, he did what any of us would do... he contacted IKEA. IKEA has been known to open it's doors for an evening so people can "test drive" furniture but this is pushing the envelope... 7 full days. At first, he didn't think they'd oblige but they did. And it's all captured for our viewing pleasure on YouTube of course.

"Mark moved in early morning Monday January 7th to the IKEA in Paramus, New Jersey and will stay for the week through Saturday January 12th. Every day people can watch a video recap of his day. He will be living in IKEA 24/7 and eating all his meals in the restaurant (he may order Domino's take out once or twice). Thankfully they have a shower for him in the back offices. " Hit the jump to watch all the episodes.

Mark currently works as the audience coordinator on Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" and is also known to have visited all 171 Starbucks located in Manhattan in a single day.

Reblog: I'm Not Going to Do Anything For Christ

2008-01-07T14:04:00.000-05:00

I normally wouldn't reblog an entire piece but this one demands sharing. Anne, I hope this is ok. If you don't check Flowerdust.net everyday you should. You can also follow Anne on Twitter.

this year i have only one resolution: to do less.

i’m not talking about simplifying, either. i mean that very literally.

i will do less.

this doesn’t mean i’m complacent. it doesn’t mean i’m lazy. it doesn’t mean i’m apathetic. it doesn’t mean i’m going to sit on my rump all day and google stuff. that’s not what i mean at all.

lately i’ve been studying a really great book that has caused me to re-evaluate my typical complicated way of thinking and doing things.

normally i think, “i want to do more for christ.”

may i be so bold to state: i don’t want to do anything for christ.

the more and more i walk along this road the more and more i realize how backwards i have it. i cannot do anything for christ. the things that are done through me for his kingdom are just that. they are done through me.

in the aforementioned book, watchman nee talks about the process of saving someone who’s drowning.

if they’re doing all they can, fighting to stay afloat, there’s no way somebody can rescue them. they’ll take both the rescuer and themselves down under.

they only way you can rescue a struggling swimmer is to either let them freak out until they’re too tired to do it anymore, or you have to knock them unconscious in order to bring them back.

i have been desperately treading water far too long.

and i really don’t want to be knocked unconscious.

i am going to go and walk in the fact that everything god has accomplished is done. and i just need to lose more of myself and let him guide my steps. i need to get out of the way.

Comments closed... Click here to comment on the original post.

PaperCritters

2008-01-07T13:33:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for something creative to do with your child while Rockabye Baby! cranks in the background, head over to Paper Critters. It's an online 3D modeling app that allows you to create your own critter. You just create, preview, print, and then put the little booger together. It's not just for kids either... I even found a Gene Simmons critter. Thousands of other designs can be found in The Colony. This way you can show off your design skill in some weird, wonderful way. I found Spongebob and put him together for Benaiah. Check out my craft skills...

Baby Jams and Lullaby Renditions

2008-01-07T12:21:00.000-05:00

I love covers and renditions but this takes the cake... your one-year-old baby's birthday cake that is. Rockabye Baby! offers your favorite bands in lullaby form to get your baby started early with those oh-so-luscious jams you've grown to love. I'm not so sure how healthy it would be, but you could if you wanted to. Believe it or not, they offer lullabies of Tool, Metallica, The Cure, Nine Inch Nails and more. Of course, if you or your baby aren't into the harder stuff you may like my personal favs U2, Coldplay, and a few others that won't require the Exorcist to make a visit.

Rockabye Baby! transforms rock songs into beautiful instrumental lullabies, sending your little one to a slumberland of sweet dreams.

It's worth making the jump and taking a listen... it's actually quite entertaining.

Please Hammer Don't Hurt Us

2008-01-03T20:12:00.000-05:00

I love MC Hammer. I still jam to my favorite Hammer hits at full volume and I know every word. Well, Hammer is making his comeback and insists that he still has more hits in him. I couldn't agree more although I don't think I'll be posting up any dance videos of myself on his latest venture... www.dancejam.com. Hammer and his business partners are attempting to take a cut out of YouTube by launching a user-generated video website that focuses on sharing and watching dance videos.

"DanceJam then hopes to make money by grabbing a piece of the rapidly growing Internet advertising market, which is expected to rake in $27.5 billion in 2008, according to eMarketer.

"If the business pans out, DanceJam could help Hammer compensate for losing his fortune when he went bankrupt in 1996 with nearly $14 million in debts."

"Drawing upon the popularity of reality shows like "Dancing With The Stars," DanceJam will stage head-to-head competitions where contestants submit videos that will be judged by viewers."

I'm not so sure about his takeover of Silicon Valley and I'll skip a predictable end-line about him being 2 Legit 2 Quit, but I sure do hope it leads to him cranking out another album soon.

via FOXNews

Human Tetris

2008-01-03T19:36:00.000-05:00

I wrote about Urban Tetris not long ago and it seems yet another group of people with no time on their hands has adapted this addictive gravitational geometry time-killer yet again... Human Tetris. Check out these other 'human" video games by the same makers including Pole Position, Pong, and my favorite, Space Invaders.

Where the Wild Things Are... The Movie

2008-01-03T18:54:00.000-05:00

Where The Wild Things Are was one of my favorite books as a child. As an adult, the accuracy the book holds is striking. The mix of our imagination in overcoming our worst fears and being "King of the Wild Things" and yet being homesick, lonely and just wanting to eat a hot supper with loved ones. Anyway, I'm excited about Spike Jonze's film adaptation of the book due out in October of this year. I hope it reflects and lives up to all the fond memories I had as a kid "making mischief" and dancing with the wild things. In any case, I'm really looking forward to this one.

What do Jay-Z and Desperation Band have in Common?

2008-01-03T18:19:00.000-05:00

Not much to be sure but I did you use some leftover holiday iTunes credits to grab some new music from them both. Jay’s Show Me What You Got from his latest CD, Kingdom Come, is a fun little jam and the video of Jay rolling with Dale Earnhart, Jr. while racing Danica Patrick around Monaco makes me wanna hot dog really bad. Don’t know why I said that but it’s a funny line from a movie I’ve never seen. Anyway... Desperation Band’s new one, Everyone Overcome, is a sure winner.

I’m not going to try and sound like a Rolling Stone review, I’ll just tell you that the song Overcome is meaning more to me with every listen. At 9:02 into the song, a young man starts a series of people telling how God has helped them overcome...

"I was afraid and insecure but God helped me overcome..."
"I was complacent but God helped me overcome..."
"I was empty and wanting purpose but God helped me overcome..."
"I was dependent on myself but God helped me overcome..."
"I was angry and confused but God helped me overcome..."

And, on and on it goes... “...and God helped me overcome... and God helped me overcome... and God helped me overcome..." God help us overcome.

Overcome flows right into Maker of Heaven

You are the Maker of Heaven
You turn my world around
You’re making all things new again
Through it all I know You are God alone

New... it seems that the themes of CMC always mirror the themes of my own life. In spite of all my failings and the place of healing we find ourselves in, I’m truly finding out what this word means. The authenticity and realness required to find it though can be daunting at times but there is a freedom that is found in allowing others in. My only New Year’s Resolution... let people walk beside me and help me.

Peace.

2007-12-30T23:32:00.000-05:00

I left my one word message to be dropped on NYC. Cliche' as it is... Peace. Let peace literally drop on our world. You know, it really is more of a God word than it is a beauty pageant word. I mentioned John's reference to "perfect love" in my previous post this week in my journey of overcoming fear. Isaiah talks about another perfect... "perfect peace." All of these God-concepts... Love... Peace... Grace... Hope... Faith... would truly make the world a better place. Oh, how I've missed the mark. I'm so much more prone to give into fear and stress and judgment and unrest. So my hope and prayer in my life and through my life in these new beginnings and new year is for Peace. Yes, peace on earth but deeper and more intimate than that. Peace in my heart and quiet in my spirit. Peace in my family and in my relationships. Peace is something we could all use. "May the peace of God which transcends all understanding guard our hearts" this year.

Drop a line on NYC

2007-12-30T23:13:00.000-05:00

Messages from all around the world will be printed on the confetti that falls on NYC and the New Year. For the first time, anyone can get a message printed on a piece of the multicolored confetti by visiting the Times Square Information Center or by using the Internet to type a message on a "Wishing Wall Online". The messages will be mixed in with more than one ton of confetti. Messages can be silly or serious. So far, they have included everything from wanting to be taller or having a smarter boss to healthy children and asking for the safe return of a child from Iraq.

Head over and leave your own message and then come back here and let us know what's going to drop tomorrow night.

Punch Buggy Daddy!

2007-12-29T13:55:00.000-05:00

If an original VW Bug was worth one good lick on your sibling's arm and a convertible worth two, then you better break out the gloves when you see this thing coming down the road. Designer Alexandre Verdier introduces the new Westfalia Verdier Solar Power. The award winning design offers several innovations such as a system of intelligent solar panels called "Sun Tracker." This system makes it possible to provide electricity to the on-board accessories while the vehicle is in a stationary position. An on-board computer and a GPS calculate the optimal position for the Sun Tracker. Inside, the passenger seat is transformed mechanically into stairs, so that the second stage area can be easily reached. Of course, in the age of digitalization, your wonderful outdoor nature adventure wouldn't be complete without a multi-media computer with wireless Internet connection. This interface gives you a weather optimized travel plan so that you can follow the sun, historical and ecological comments during the trip, and a directory of campgrounds. All of this technological hippie love can be yours for $69,000. With that price tag, I don't think the Scooby-Do gang will be rolling in one of these anytime soon.

8 Ways to Look Ahead

2007-12-29T13:48:00.000-05:00

I wanted to post up a piece from Jon Swanson over at Levite Chronicles. If you don't subscribe to his feed... you should. In his 8 Ways series, he suggests some words to think about as we look ahead and set new goals.

1. More. More often, more intentionally, more consistently.

2. Less. Less often, less reactively, with less intensity, with less (fewer) people.

3. Better. You know what better means for you. What do you want to do better?

4. Worse. What are you, what am I, willing to be worse at…if it will buy space for what is better? Do I want to be a worse packrat? Do I want to be a worse daily blogger?
5. Faster. What could I do faster that would create more time?
6. Slower. What could I do slower that would create more relationship?
7. Thoughtfully. What do I need to actually stop and think about? And how can I plan for that? (Gift-giving, for example)
8. Impulsively. What do I need to release from planning and strategizing?

Overcoming Fear...

2007-12-27T19:50:00.000-05:00

I know the title is not creative at all and doesn't really capture the imagination. And yet, at the risk of being too transparent, this is where I'm at in the journey. Overcoming fear... It's so easy to lose sight of the fact... no truth... that we are loved by God. When you become a professional Christian (and I was for years) it is is so common to allow as Bill Hybels says, "the work you are doing for God to kill the work of God in you."

Romans 8:15 - "For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."

Fear of what people think...
Fear of not being good enough...
Fear of failing...
Fear of rejection...
Fear of not having the goods...
Fear of being unloved...
Fear of being unaccepted...
Fear of losing my son...

I've received a Spirit of sonship. And nothing I do or don't do can change that. I've worked for God most of my adult life. I've loved him but never fully rested in him and his love for me. Fear is an amazing motivator and driver but it's also a nasty taskmaster. Fear has no place in the Christian experience... except for the fear of God of course. But even in that, his perfect love drives out all fear.

1 John 4:18 - "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."

So I'm beginning to recognize all the ways fear has driven me. And I'm beginning to allow the perfect love of Christ to drive out fear. I can't live there anymore. I won't live there anymore. May you recognize fear when it creeps in. And may you allow the perfect love of Christ to sooth your soul and remind your that you are first a friend... a son... a daughter.

John 15:15 - "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."

Pimp Your Tech

2007-12-27T14:59:00.001-05:00

We like to customize everything. From ordering your trendy one-of-kind latte to creating your own shoes through Puma's Mongolian Shoe BBQ, we want the ability to mark our stuff with our own brand. Now you can take that expensive new Christmas gift like your MacBook or iPhone and pimp it out with your own stamp of personality. Engrave is a Portland based laser-engraving company that is taking their business online. Depending on the unit, it will cost you somewhere between $25 and $150. The results are beautiful in my opinion and it doesn't void your warranty since the modification is only cosmetic.

Go to your happy place...

2007-12-27T14:52:00.000-05:00

The past month we've written about finding your own personal "white space" where you think most creatively and effectively. In addition to Cloud, check out this intimate personal space designed by Michael Jantzen called M-velope. The designer has "created a place for us to go and be fully enveloped in quietness and stillness. The M-velope was designed as a place to go for personal meditation. The structure is made to create the perfect space for the individual’s desire. It can be moved and transformed into many different shapes by moving the hinged panels to an opened or closed position. The flooring of the M-velope is 8 ft.sq. and the height can be as much as 12 ft. high, depending on how the panels are folded. Inside of the M-velope there are benches with backrests that can comfortably seat at least 8 people. The M-velope can be easily transported and does not require a foundation for it to be set up. If more space is desired, more than on M-velope can be connected together."

via Yanko Design

The Big Shift in 2008

2007-12-27T14:20:00.000-05:00

If you've been reading Danis Linus for very long then you've probably noticed that I'm fascinated with culture shifts. I'm by no means a "futurist" in the sense that I'm able to predict what's coming next but it doesn't take a rocket-scientist to see that the way we receive our digital content is changing... drastically. My brother-in-law, Jon, of Erwin Brother Motion Pictures have an ongoing conversation about media, culture, and especially how technology is changing and shaping the landscape of film. I agree with him that the movie-going experience won't change all that much since we love the big-screen and our Dolby surround sound. I do think that in 2008 we'll be seeing a huge shift in the way we digest content on a smaller scale.

A few indicators that jump out... The first an incredibly humorous one. A couple weeks ago, the The Royal Monarchy launched their own YouTube channel in order to reach a broader audience. ABC is now streaming full episodes in High Definition through their new media player. And, Apple and Twentieth Century Fox are poised to announce a new deal where iTunes will be carrying movie rentals for download and not just purchase. In addition, communications giant AT&T is launching their new U-Verse interactive, IP-based digital television, internet, and phones in even more markets over the next couple years. Things are changing and the consumer truly is king indeed.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! May you sense the presence of Christ in such a real way this season and upcoming year. May God bless you all... especially those in Nepal today.

Card Me...

2007-12-21T13:07:00.000-05:00

The Gift Card industry has risen to be a 45 billion dollar industry. Ever wonder how many gift cards are unused? Some reports say at least 10%. That means billions of dollars are waiting to be used on Gift Cards.

Jeff and Andre Shinabarger (formerly of Catalyst) have launched www.GiftCardGiver.com to help you figure out what to do with all those balances leftover on your cards this holiday season. They write...

How many gift cards do you have sitting in your wallet? We guess you have at least $5 of unused gift cards in your wallet or purse right now. What’s 5 bucks going to buy you?

GIVE YOUR GIFT CARD
Five bucks in Gift Cards will buy you a pair of socks…but 10 people giving 5 bucks will buy a kid a winter coat or 100 people giving $5 from Home Depot will give that same kid a warm bedroom to sleep through the night.

For more information and to donate your gift cards, hit them up at www.GiftCardGiver.com and join their Facebook group.

Handbell Hero

2007-12-21T12:40:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of Christmas and to spread holiday cheer, I present to you... Handbell Hero. I've only played Guitar Hero a few times and didn't do very well. This proved to be just as challenging. With all the pressures and frenzy of rushing around to buy gifts for your loved ones, take a moment and give it a whirl. It's sure to fill your heart with joyful bliss (or more frustration). It's some good fun except the only thing missing are the scrolling pentagrams.

Cloud: the ultimate "white space"

2007-12-21T12:10:00.000-05:00

I was checking out designer Monica Förster's newest product LOAD and I came across some previous work and was totally captured by Cloud: "A portable inflatable meeting room in white ripstop nylon. Floor in greengrey colour. Bag, with fan in greysilver sound-decreasing textile contains room when deflated." This one definitely has my vote for the ultimate "white space."

GoogleTalk Translates

2007-12-20T10:56:00.001-05:00

I haven't attempted to try Google's newest feature... language translation for Google Talk. As a matter of fact, I've never used Google Talk (I use iChat and Skype) but I may make the leap with this addition. Google has introduced translation "bots" enabling instant translation between 30 different languages. I won't go into the technical details of how this works since I don't really understand it myself but the implications of this are massive.

Think of how this breaks down the most basic hindrance to communication and connectivity... the language barrier. I would love to sit down at the keyboard and chat with someone in a different culture and "explore" the world through their eyes. We truly are becoming more and more a global village. I'd love to see a multi-language social networking site that connects people from other cultures and languages using this technology.

What is your IM client of choice? iChat, MSN, AOL, Skype, GoogleTalk? Why do you prefer it?

My screennames are...
iChat/AOL - danatchison74@mac.com
Skype - danatchison

You Won't Find Me in My Office, I'm Working

2007-12-20T10:45:00.001-05:00

Last week the New York Times ran an interesting article exploring how employees are getting outside their normal workspaces to get more work done. The idea is that not a lot of actual work is being done at their desks. With all the distractions and interruptions, people are finding their "white space" where creativity and momentum can grow and thrive. These "white spaces" are vast and varying depending on the individual. Busy coffee shops... a quiet corner in a library. Some progressive companies are actually encouraging people to find their "white space" and are taking huge steps to create these spaces on campus. The NYT times writes...

Technology companies are eliminating assigned space for open floor plans. Cisco Systems, Google and Sun Microsystems have already knocked down partitions. This month, Intel began testing alternative floor plans at three locations — creating open work areas with clusters of armchairs, library-style tables with laptop plugs, electronic white boards where inspired doodles can be transferred to e-mail, and a variety of conerence rooms when privacy is needed. It is not just the high-tech firms that are becoming cozier.

The creative industries — such as advertising and design — are embracing the approach, too. At ?What If! (yes, that is really the name, punctuation and all) an “innovations company” (that seems to mean marketing) with a Manhattan outpost, employees never sit in the same place two days in a row. This is known as “hot desking,” said Nina Powell, the managing director of the United States office, and the purpose is to give workers a perspective that changes with the task.

When the work requires collaboration and interaction, she said, the communal tables are the place to be. When the work is more introspective, there are cafe-style booths providing quiet and privacy.

What is your favorite and most productive "white space?"

Japan Leads the World in Mobile Blogging

2007-12-20T10:35:00.000-05:00

I watched Lost In Translation and didn't get it. The title was helpful in explaining the movie... Bill Murray was great... Sophie Coppola did a fine job directing, but I don't get Japanese culture. I'm intrigued by it... I just don't get it. Maybe that's because I'm not Japanese. Anyway, according to the Technorati 2007 “State of the Blogsphere” report, Japanese is the #1 blogging language in the world, accounting for 37% of all blog posts, narrowly edging out English at 36%." The article specifically focuses on the method of blogging by the Japanese... mobile phones.

According to a recent survey, the mobile phone was found to be the blogging device of choice, being used by over two-thirds of bloggers in Japan. In fact, over a third of the sample stated that they only blog by mobile phone, while another 20% used both mobile phone and PC, while favoring the phone. The levels for favoring using a PC for blogging were lower.

This naturally leads to the question, what exactly is being written by these mobile bloggers? Well according to the aforementioned survey, nearly 70% of content involves diary entries/columns, followed by movies/television/music at 31%.

My Box Arrived...

2007-12-19T09:50:00.000-05:00

Let me clarify... My one-of-a-kind-none-other-like-it-in-the-world box arrived. Artist Franck de Las Mercedes painted this masterpiece and sent it to little ol' me. I'm not really all that special... you can get yours too. All you have to do is ask nicely. Hit the jump and click Priority Boxes. A few weeks later... you'll receive your box with none other than World Peace inside.

RIP: Pluto

2007-12-19T09:44:00.001-05:00

I miss Pluto. I think NASA should have left it alone. I mean, how would you feel if you were kicked out of the Planet club? I mean, Pluto held the same majestic status as Saturn or Jupiter. But of course, no more. So to commemorate our long lost friend, MentalFloss has designed a shirt for all of us who want to properly bid farewell to our former ninth planet.

"Leaf"

2007-12-19T09:33:00.000-05:00

I love hammocks but getting in and out of them requires the kind of prowess and nimbleness of a ninja. The last time I was in a hammock was in Orlando a few years back and Maria and I kept trying not to fall out. It took great skill and effort. That's why I'm loving this new hammock by designers Pinar Yar & Tugrul Govsa. "Leaf is the new luxury in hammock design. This hammock is made out of plastic material used for support, and a woven area to help support the body. This allows for total relaxation and creates a sense of confidence as you lay down to get into the hammock-the fear of falling out is no more. The beauty of the design allows for Leaf to be used outside as well as inside the home."

Puma: Urban Mobility

2007-12-19T09:29:00.000-05:00

Puma is offering four limited edition bikes for the holidays. One of each is available at the Puma Black store in New York and also in Tokyo. There is a green road bike, a black touring bike, a blue cruiser and a pink BMX with silver accents. There's a host of other accessories to go along with your new purchase of course. And if you can't score one of these limited editions, you can always head over to the online Puma store and grab their collapsible 8-speed for a mere $1600. I like silver. Thanks Santa.

Indescribable

2007-12-17T17:55:00.000-05:00

A good friend of mine texted me the other day and mentioned Psalm 77. Said it reminded him of me and when I read it in The Message... I agreed. Being as honest as I can be... I connect more with the first half and have a hard time these days making the leap to the second. I'm sure the writer had a difficult time as well.

In the second half, the psalmist reminds himself of all that God has done and how big he is. As Louie Giglio puts it, "We have to right-size God." Indescribable is a video of Louie explaining how big God is using astronomy as his measuring stick. I've watched it twice and both times was encouraged by a God who's grace is as big as he is. It's definitely worth the 40 minutes of your life to watch it. You have to make it all the way to the end or you lose everything about it.

Santa's Ghetto

2007-12-17T16:16:00.000-05:00

I know it's a few weeks old but I couldn't pass this one up. Banksy and friends are at it again this Christmas. In what they are calling "probably the world's most low-concept art event," they are showing in one of the most unlikely places on the planet... a former chicken shop on Manger Square in Bethlehem opposite the Church of the Nativity. This puts them one mile behind the security wall in a part of the world ravaged by conflict, poverty and dust.

Of course, Santa's Ghetto is making a statement but according to the artists "it’s obviously not the job of a loose collection of idiot doodlers to tell you what’s right or wrong about this situation, so you’re advised to do further reading yourself (this month’s National Geographic has an excellent article all about Bethlehem)."

In addition to the "show," many urban art pieces can be seen around Bethlehem and especially on the Wall. Perhaps the most powerful aspect of this is the fact that these incredibly well-known/identity-unknown artists are selling their art with all proceeds going to the children affected most by this conflict. "Every shekel made in the store will be used on local projects for children and young people. Not one cent will go to any political groups, governmental institutions or, in fact, any grown-ups at all."

Urban Tetris

2007-12-17T15:55:00.001-05:00

As a kid, I can remember playing Tetris so long that when I looked at buildings or everyday geometrical shapes, I could see how they would all fit together on a Tetris board. Well, some college students in China have actually made it happen on this scale.

A couple of months ago, I posted a piece about using light as an urban artform. I don't know if this qualifies as art but the execution is amazing. They've taken Tetris to a whole new level (pun intended).

Only50 on Behance

2007-12-17T15:38:00.001-05:00

My good friends, Patrick Webber and Steven Lambert of Only50/Society Style are now over at Behance: THE network for creative portfolios, projects, and collaborations. Check out the latest work or better yet, order a limited edition tee for a loved one or yourself this holiday season.

Wow... that's a lot of link love in one post. Check 'em all... you'll be glad you did.

I Am Greatly Loved

2007-12-17T15:30:00.000-05:00

Reblog from John Piper's Desiring God. The only change is to the title. I've replaced "You Are Greatly Loved" with "I Am Greatly Loved." I have to remind myself of this truth all the time. I get into trouble when I don't. I love the fact that it happens to be "Daniel."

Would you not love to hear the angel Gabriel say to you, “You are greatly loved”? Three times this happened to Daniel.

“At the beginning of your pleas for mercy a word went out, and I have come to tell it to you, for you are greatly loved” (Dan. 9:23)
“O Daniel, man greatly loved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for now I have been sent to you” (Dan. 10:11)
“And he said, ‘O man greatly loved, fear not, peace be with you; be strong and of good courage” (Dan. 10:19).

Take heart. If you have faith in Jesus, God himself says to you, “You are greatly loved.”

We were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ . . . For by grace you have been saved through faith. (Ephesians 2:3-5, 8).

This is better than an angel's voice. If you are “alive” you are greatly loved.

I'm learning to not walk alone...

2007-12-17T15:18:00.000-05:00

For regular readers of Danis Linus, you've undoubtedly seen the lack of posts these past several weeks. They have been crazy to say the least. For those that don't know, I've resigned my position as Master's Commission director in Clearwater and we have moved to Alabama for a season of healing and restoration. The two year mark of losing Josiah came last week as well. I won't go into all the details and specifics but your prayers, encouragement, and grace are coveted as we walk this journey. I'm learning to not walk alone...

So... Danis Linus is back up and running. Check back daily for personal updates as well as the random nonsense that you've grown to love.

Sacramento Here We Come!!!

2007-11-28T01:15:00.000-05:00

It's gonna be a little slow around here for the next few days. I'm sure I'll squeeze some time in to post some stuff up though. Maria and I are headed to Sacramento, CA to speak at the Northern Cal/Nevada District Youth Convention. It'll be good to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones... Steve and Peg Edwards, Alan and Dorothy Graham, Joey Macias, and Jeff and Stacey Leatherman among others. We'll be hitting up Napa Valley as well for a couple of days so it should be a good time.

World AIDS Day - December 1

2007-11-27T22:48:00.000-05:00

One in three people with HIV are undiagnosed.
39.5 million people living with HIV worldwide
37 million adults
17.7 million women
2.3 million children under 15

New HIV cases in 2006:
4.3 million total new cases
3.8 million adults
530,000 children under 15

HIV-related deaths in 2006:
2.9 million total deaths
2.6 million adult deaths
380,000 deaths among children under 15

All figures from UNAIDS AIDS Epidemic Update 2006.

Read an article concerning this issue by Rick Warren.

Iceland Goes Green(er)

2007-11-27T22:21:00.000-05:00

To label me an environmentalist is laughable but I did think this piece was quite interesting. Don't get me wrong, I believe it's an issue to grapple with (although not the most important issue in the upcoming election according to Al Gore). Anyway, back to the interesting bit.

202Collaborative, a Philadelphia based design firm has put out a proposal that helps assemble and conceptualize about hydrogen-powered urban design in Iceland. "The project, originally intended for a design competition, imagines carefully engineered algae ponds and balloons of hydrogen gas fueling the Icelandic city of the future."

As the designers note:

It has long been known that algae produce small amounts of hydrogen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. In 1999, researchers in Berkeley observed that algae alternate between hydrogen production and normal photosynthesis depending on the chemical environment. Depriving algae of oxygen and sulfur, the researchers greatly increased the hydrogen production and triggered the algae to produce hydrogen for an extended period of time. Another research group also discovered that algae will sustain simultaneous production of hydrogen and oxygen from water by illuminating the algae and depriving it of carbon dioxide and oxygen. Researchers estimate that a small pond (1.5 acre or 10 meter diameter) will produce enough hydrogen on a weekly basis to fuel 12 cars.

With fuel prices where they are, I could handle an algae powered car. Check out the whole concept and process over at BLDGBLOG.

Banksy in NYC

2007-11-27T20:31:00.000-05:00

Never heard of Banksy? "Whilst others spray their names, Banksy paints pictures, pictures that have made Banksy a household name. He is the most controversial and downright interesting graffiti artist at large in the UK today. He has never let the world know his real name - and he has never even posed for a photograph. And yet everybody is talking about him...he is unknown but his work is unmistakable. He’s the maniac who got on the news for managing to smuggle one of his pieces of art into Tate Britain and embarrassed everyone because nobody seemed to notice..." (Check out the YouTube video below of Banksy sneaking one of his pieces into a museum...)

His pieces have sold on eBay and through Sotheby's for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Well, opening this Sunday at the Vanina Holasek Gallery in New York is Banksy Does New York. The show runs through December 29th.

Link Love

2007-11-26T22:16:00.001-05:00

I love lists... short, sweet, and to the point. I check over 50 sites a day but here are my Top 10. In no particular order...

Escape to Your Cave

2007-11-26T21:42:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we just want to escape and get some relaxation and privacy. A book is one of my favorite way to get "lost." Designer Sakura Adachi has made it a little easier for all of us. Introducing: Cave. The bookshelf is large enough to be used as a divider. Books may be stored on both sides of the bookcase with a cave crawlspace in between. Available in two sizes: Children and Adult. I only wished it came in a darker wood.

Mall Madness

2007-11-26T21:37:00.001-05:00

I won't reblog the whole thing here because I want you to head over to www.PastorDonJames.com but he just posted up some thoughts about the holidays and "Mall Madness."

...can I move through the gift, party and busy season and keep my focus on our Lord’s birth, or will madness totally overtake me? Man I hope not. I know Isaiah’s words are ultimately true…none of these things really satisfy the soul. Most of it will be old to me, too small for me, or broken by mid January anyway.

Needs for Sale

2007-11-26T21:11:00.001-05:00

I came across Wants for Sale a couple of months ago and was struck by how creative the concept was. Basically, Wants for Sale is a webpage that a 20-somethings couple in New York created to get people to buy things for them. Artist Justin Gignac and his girlfriend, Christine, paint the object they want on canvas and sell you the piece for exactly what the item would cost. For example, a Nintendo Wii costs $270.92. So, for $270.92 you can buy a painting from them of a Nintendo Wii and they turn around and buy an actual Wii. Though Wants for Sale may have been a clever scheme to get stuff they wanted, it wasn't all about greed and Guitar Hero. Wants for Sale also had its soft side with paintings aimed at donating money to help kids in both New Orleans and Africa.

It's this thought that drives their newest project, Needs for Sale. All proceeds go directly to charities they believe in and would like to support but don't have the money. All of the paintings Justin and Christine sell go to help various causes; for instance, Habitat for Humanity says that a $100 donation buys a front door, so the site has a painting of a front door on sale for $100. Ultimately, the couple hopes to donate between $5,000 and $10,000 to various charitable organizations this Holiday season.

A Flock of Planes?

2007-11-24T09:57:00.001-05:00

I wonder if the Wright Brothers even envisioned this back in 1903. This piece was rendered by Japanese artist Homato in 2005. Click the image for a larger view and see if you can find your favorite airline.

Where Megachurches Are Concentrated

2007-11-24T09:40:00.000-05:00

The New York Times published a fascinating map (click the image for larger viewing) that shows the concentration of Mega-churches across the United States.

There are just over 1,300 megachurches in the United States, according to the most recent survey by Prof. Scott Thumma at the Hartford Institute for Religion Research. These are churches that average at least 2,000 in weekly attendance. The shaded areas reflect the density of megachurches in counties across the United States, based on the most recent census figures.

I'm not suggesting that only "mega-churches" can make a significant impact in a city. But, I do like Brian Houston's perspective in his The Church the I See. "The Church that I see is a Church of influence. A Church so large in size that the city and nation cannot ignore it. A Church growing so quickly that buildings struggle to contain the increase."

Agree with this perspective or not, you cannot argue with the fact that there is much work to be done. 85% of the population in the Tampa area are unchurched. Probably not much different where you live as well.

Big... small... in between... whatever. There are all kinds of ways of "doing church" but to be honest, I'm tired of "doing church". We have to get after it and start "being the Church". BTW, the Church is still God's plan for reaching the planet.

Lego | Building Asia Brick by Brick

2007-11-23T13:07:00.000-05:00

For the record, I love Lego bricks. You probably do as well. And, I know I've mentioned before about child-like creativity's effect on adults but that's why I couldn't pass this one up. Building Asia Brick by Brick is an exhibition of pieces constructed by architects around the world.

"Architects from China, Japan and Thailand amongst others were given kits of white LEGO building blocks and told to have just fun. The results, from Asiatic temples to futuristic towers to sustainable old-and-new city plans are currently touring Asia."

Andrew Maerkle of Art AsiaPacific says, "we felt the need to engage architects in a unique way, seeing how the architects respond to an unconventional but fun challenge. LEGO created the custom kits for us, choosing the white colour and providing each participant approximately 8,000 bricks of 2×2, 2×4 and 2×8 dimensions to work with. The idea behind Building Asia Brick By Brick was to get architects to engage spontaneously with the materials; we gave them no instructions other than to have fun!"

Sony | Music Like No Other

2007-11-23T12:16:00.000-05:00

Last month, I posted about Sony's Bravia Play-Doh ad. And then subsequently, the Behind the Scenes look. Well, Sony has slipped out another ad... this time for the Walkman. Of course, I'm a huge Mac fan and love my iPod/iPhone so I'm not going to run out an buy a Walkman but the ad is definitely worth the look.

"It shows 128 musicians gathered in Alexandra Palace Theatre in London, with each one given just one note to play from a piece of original music composed for the ad by Peter Raeburn. Featured in the spot are 32 electric guitars and 32 drums among the many other instruments." Watching this ad, I was reminded of the Nooma short film, Rhythm.

Like the Play-Doh ad, the Behind the Scenes look gives me more appreciation for the final product (view below). The production and coordination were much more difficult the final proof suggests.

Thankful for the Daniels in My Life

2007-11-22T12:48:00.000-05:00

I know I said I wasn't going to post today but I felt compelled. I also want to say that since I'm not giving an Academy Award speech I don't feel the need to run down the list. Having said that, I wanted to focus on something I'm thankful for... I'm thankful for the Daniels in my life.

My grandfather's name is Daniel Lorenzo Atchison. He's Pater to me (Pater is Greek for father). He was the first one to come to faith in Christ decades ago. If not for him, the Atchison name would be vastly different than it is today. I have so much respect for who he is and what he's been in my life. It all started with him.

My father is Daniel Wayne Atchison. There's not enough room on the Internet to write what he means to me and what he's taught me. He has been the single biggest influence on my life. I'm so thankful to God for the father I've been given.

My son's name is Daniel Josiah Atchison. No place to begin and no place to end. I learned more from his life than I did from the journey in losing him. I'm thankful for you son. Thank you for who you are and all you taught me.

I'm so thankful for the Daniels in my life...

BTW, you may be wondering about the image of the bridge for this post. Every time I see a bridge, I'm reminded of my dad. He's the bridge generation that carried the Truth from my grandfather to continuing generations.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2007-11-21T23:33:00.001-05:00

It's been a slow blog week for me and I'm taking tomorrow off and maybe the next day. Hope all is well and you have a wonderful day with your family. We all have so much to be thankful for... See you soon.

Interactive Forest

2007-11-20T23:44:00.000-05:00

I love creativity. I love creativity even more when it inspires, influences, shapes, or engages a child. That's why I'm so enthralled with this video of an installation called Funky Forest. Funky Forest is...

...an interactive ecosystem where children create trees with their body and then divert the water flowing from the waterfall to the trees to keep them alive. The health of the trees contributes to the overall health of the forest and the types of creatures that inhabit it.

I'm more captivated by the children and their own amazement and creativity than I am the actual piece. I'm constantly challenged by my sons to, as U2 puts it so brilliantly in Original of the Species, "please stay a child somewhere in your heart." And to quote an earlier work of theirs... "Into the heart of boy... I could go there. I could stay a while." Jesus talked about that someplace in the Gospels... I'm sure of it.

Push Once for Espresso

2007-11-20T19:31:00.001-05:00

I love coffee (although I'm cutting back a bit). I especially love Illy coffee from Italy. Thanks again to Jim Rudolph for introducing me. Well, if you happen to be in New York, you must visit the Time Warner Center where the Illy cafe' will be showcased November 29-December 29th.

This little prefab cafe' opens up in 90-seconds with just a push of a button. As you can see, the rough aluminum walls unfold to reveal a surprisingly refined interior. I think our church really needs one of these.

Kuka the Calligraphy Bot

2007-11-20T18:29:00.000-05:00

I'm not gonna lie. After seeing the Book of Kells in Dublin, Ireland, this really isn't that impressive. Kuka is a robotic arm that writes calligraphy and is programmed to write out the entire Martin Luther Bible on a long roll of paper. I don't know... a robotic arm? It takes something so passionate and full of life and sterilizes it.

The fact that the Bible was chosen as the subject of this project is quite interesting. Not the first time you know... Gutenberg's Press and all. To most, it's just a book though... a literary piece. I wonder how guilty we are of the same... not in theory but in practice. I'm reminded of Craig Groeschel's bit on being a Practical Atheist. Do you really allow The Word to guide you... instruct you... shape you... change you? It's alive. Maybe that's why I'm not so sure about Kuka the Robotic Arm.

Hit the jump here for more pics...

Eternal Sunset

2007-11-20T18:09:00.000-05:00

The sunsets here in Clearwater are some of the most beautiful I've ever seen. We really don't go to the beach (a mere 3 miles from where we live) as often as we should to take advantage of what I like to call "The Show" each evening. All these people will be walking along the sand and then everyone just stops and turns to watch. It's like the sun opens up and just pours into the Gulf. It's amazing how creation continues to captivate mankind. I've seen some pretty amazing sunsets in my life (even though I am color-blind and don't see what you see) and I think I prefer them to sunrises... probably has more to do with not having to wake up. Anyway...

I came across a website called Eternal Sunset. It ties 284 west-facing webcams across 54 countries together on one website so you can always see a "live" sunset no matter what time it is. Not quite the same as Clearwater Beach but...

Digital Conversation with Chuck Anderson

2007-11-19T22:20:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite designers/artists, Chuck Anderson | No Pattern took time out of his busy schedule to talk to us over at Danis Linus presents Digital Conversations. You've probably seen Chuck's work before but just didn't know it. Read the interview here...

8 Ways to Be Thanked

2007-11-19T17:13:00.000-05:00

Wanted to turn you guys onto one of the blogs I read daily.... Levite Chronicles. I love his "8 Ways" series... here's one appropriate for this week.

1. Someone cleans the bathroom where you live or work or buy coffee. Thank them. (If it’s you, look in the mirror and say, “Jon says thanks.”)

2. Meet your paper carrier at the door and thank them and smile (especially if they *always* throw the paper in the wrong place.).

3. Hold a door open for someone you don’t know. (Bonus points if you hold it for three people. 1000 bonus points if you have to run to get the door for someone who can’t get it for themself).

4. Write an actual email instead of a comment to a blogger who has mattered to you in the past month. Say more than “nice post”. Tell them HOW that post changed how you think. (You lose points if you send one to me.)

5. Show up early (if you are always late). Show up ready (if you never do). Show up awake. Show up with coffee for the other person. Show up smiling. Show up not complaining. Maybe just show up.

6. Someone in your past changed your life. If you have never told them, tell them. This week. Really. (With Google, you should be able to find them.)

7. Tell God that you are trying to figure out whether He’s there.

8. Pick someone that you care about, look them in the eyes, and say “thank you.” and when they say, “for what?”, have a specific reason. (I don’t know what it is. But you do. Right?)

Creative Interiors

2007-11-19T16:12:00.000-05:00

At the risk of people thinking that this has become a design blog, (it's not, I just love creative design) I had to post these pics up. The are some of the most creative interiors I've seen.

Like most things in life, perspective changes everything. Sometimes the context around you doesn't need to change... you need to move and get new perspective. Anyway... to the pics.

Jesus on the Streets

2007-11-17T13:34:00.001-05:00

Came across this through Wooster Collection, a site showcasing urban art. Not exactly sure how I feel about it. I think it is quite interesting that someone saw a crown of thorns and decided to finish it off as a portrait of Christ. Wonder what people think when they look up and see it? Are they stirred? Offended? Drawn? It is pretty compelling...

What are your thoughts?

The North Face Hotness

2007-11-17T13:30:00.000-05:00

Check out "the new North Face NSE Collection, a special limited collaboration with the Japanese sportswear manufacturer Goldwin. Inspired by the white birch forests that thrive on the northern island of Japan, the centerpiece of the collection is a new camo print featuring images of the birch forests. The first of the NSE special collector's edition, which will be announced annually, also includes puffy jackets, reversibles, hoodies, bags and pants."

You may have to travel a bit if you want these though. The limited U.S. release will hit stores on December 8, 2007 only at the The North Face SoHo store, HUF and Alife.

Nixon Watches

2007-11-16T10:09:00.001-05:00

If you're not wanting to drop a few grand for a Bell & Ross (my favorite watches by the way) or more than a few grand for an IWC, you should check out the watches by Nixon. They range anywhere from $100-$300 and the design is so clean. If you're not familiar with Nixon...

Nestled comfortably out of the way up against the pacific ocean in southern California, and tucked neatly next to the best surf in Europe, you'll find Nixon people doing what we do. What started as a frustration at a lack of quality watches that simultaneously do the talking for you and deliver what you need in various high stress work and play environments has grown into a network of athletes, rock stars, retailers, and dedicated loyalists that bring Nixon products to market.

Their line extends beyond watches to other accessories and even some clothing. I don't know that I'd lump them in with other "surf" companies though. Nixon seems to be a bit more sophisticated than that. Even though it's only 8-years-old, the company reminds me of an old dude on a longboard that carries a kind of mystique and legend that everyone respects.

Jonas Samson: Light Emitting Wallpaper

2007-11-15T21:10:00.000-05:00

This is by far one of the coolest things I've seen in a while. Jonas Samson has created a high-tech, light-emitting wallpaper proving it “possible to use a two-dimensional flat surface as light source instead of a 3D object.” When turned off, it appears to be just what it is... wallpaper. There's a new light fixture in town... it's called your wall.

Hit the jump for more pics...

Simplicity is Key

2007-11-15T16:40:00.001-05:00

You have to check out this portfolio of peter&wendy over at Behance. Like the title says, "Simplicity is Key" but I also think simplicity can be very beautiful. I love great design that is well thought out and form that clearly conveys its message. Sometimes the message gets lost in the artform and you lose what is trying to be said. You have to have a good expression of both.

Not to expound on this too much in this post about design but the church can be guilty of this as well. So caught up in perfecting the form that the message gets lost. Or... we can ignore and discount the power of methods/medium. No one can hear the message because the presentation lacking creativity or excellence doesn't resonate with them. Anyway... probably took that too far but... there's that.

The Millennials Are Coming!

2007-11-15T16:24:00.000-05:00

Steven sent me this link and in keeping with my exhortation below concerning the Responsibility to Share, I thought I'd pass this along. It's a piece 60 Minutes did on the Millennial Generation entering the workforce and what that looks like. It gives some great insights into the minds and values of the demographic as well as what companies must do to attract and keep this age group. To use Steven's word, it is a bit "scary" some of the findings but it's very interesting and will be even more so how these concepts play out in the next decade or so.

If you are a Millennial yourself, a parent, a youth worker, a teacher, or a pastor... check out the entire 13 minute video here. It's worth the watch.

Survey: Teens Use Instant-Messaging to Avoid Awkward Moments

2007-11-15T15:50:00.001-05:00

An AP-AOL poll released today revealed that...

For many teenagers, it's also a great way to avoid those OMG moments — that's "omigod" — of mortifying face-to-face confrontations.

More than four in 10, or 43 percent, of teens who instant message use it for things they wouldn't say in person, according to an Associated Press-AOL poll released Thursday.

Twenty-two percent use IMs to ask people out on dates or accept them, and 13 percent use them to break up.

To me, this brings up the question of true connectivity. I say this after having just posted about using Twitter to help stay "connected" to those I love but it certainly is something to consider. Technology can sometimes become this buffer zone that allows us to keep a distance that doesn't require true vulnerability.

Anyway... if you're on Skype or AOL/iChat hit up my usernames below and add me... but please don't ask me out on a date... I'm doing ok in that area.

AOL/iChat: danatchison74@mac.com (do not use as email)
Skype: danatchison

via FoxNews.com

Ambient Digital Noise - Filling in the gaps...

2007-11-15T13:57:00.000-05:00

I posted up about Twitter a couple of weeks ago and I've decided that I like it... a lot. I wish more people were using it but here's why I like it.

It's kind of like the ambient noise when you leave the TV on in the background and it's just there. All these little pointless pithy little microblogs fill in the gaps of what people are doing that I care about or am interested in... I love getting a text through Twitter that over in Ireland, tyes has just finished his essay or that kelimalone just got done watching Nikki eat a salad and it was awkward or that mariadelpilar just got back from the park with Ben. No response is needed or required on my part because they didn't text me directly. But it fills in the gaps and helps me stay connected to good friends and family.

Sign up and then hit me up on Twitter here...

Wave of Sorrow

2007-11-14T16:44:00.000-05:00

In gearing up for the release The Joshua Tree 2007, U2 released this video of Bono talking about and singing Wave of Sorrow, a song that didn't make the cut on the original album. U2.com writes...

Twenty years after its original release, The Joshua Tree has been remastered for release in a series of special formats. As well as a fourteen track bonus-CD of b-sides and rarities, the 2007 release features a live concert DVD from Paris in 1987, liner notes from band and producers and previously unseen photos in a limited edition booklet.

Brilliant if not Creepy Stop Motion Work

2007-11-14T16:10:00.000-05:00

Check out this stop motion video that was created in an abandoned warehouse over a timespan of 13 hours. Be warned... it's creepy at best but I love the form and execution.

The responsibility to share...

2007-11-14T12:37:00.000-05:00

We come across bits of information all the time through various mediums and forms. Sometimes it's just an interesting piece and other times it is something that really causes us to think and from that make some new decisions that impact our future.

When you find great content, how often do you share it through email, tweets, blogs, or text?

That's what social media is all about. Not many days go by that I don't get an email or IM from Tyler or Steven pointing me to something that benefits me or at the very least enriches my world through a broader understanding of what's "out there." So, do your friend and me a favor... pass along DanisLinus to someone you love.

We all have a responsibility to share...

Adopted Values...

2007-11-13T22:18:00.001-05:00

I was talking with CMC2 today at Starbucks about adopted values. I think we should be self-aware concerning what we resonate with and what we don't. It's important to not only know who we are but also, who we are not. It's one thing to copy or borrow from others... I'm not sure if that's the best thing, especially when it comes to something as core as values. But, adopting is something entirely different. When you adopt... you take it as your own. You make it yours. You resonate with it. It becomes part of who you are. To that end, I offer six values that I connect with as a leader and would also overlay onto any spiritual community as guiding values. They come from Catalyst. But, imagine for a moment if every leader... better yet... every member of a spiritual community were...

Authentic in Influence
Uncompromising in Integrity
Passionate about God
Intentional about Community
Courageous in Calling
Engaged in Culture

What a picture that would be... Which one of these do you connect with most and how are they expressed in your journey as a Christ-follower?

The Killers | Sawdust

2007-11-13T22:00:00.000-05:00

I love The Killers. Brandon Flowers' kind of takes me back to the glam-rock of the 80's but their sound is definitely fresh. They just released Sawdust, a b-sides-and-rarities comp that has some different sounds on it. My favs are "Leave the Bourbon on the Shelf"...especially the last few measures. And, "All the Pretty Faces." "Where the White Boys Dance" kind of reminds me of Prince for some reason. Anyway... Check it out on Rhapsody...

Everything is Spiritual

2007-11-13T15:49:00.001-05:00

Most of you are probably familiar with Rob Bell through Velvet Elvis, Sex God, or the Nooma short film series. And, most of you probably know he's been on tour this past year and has another tour coming up. Check out this short clip from the Everything Is Spiritual Tour. Good stuff...

I prayed for Kanye this morning...

2007-11-13T14:28:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard, Kanye West's mother, Donda, died Saturday night reportedly due to complications with her plastic surgery. So, I prayed for him this morning. I know that may seem kind of random and you may be asking "why." Well, in a broad sense, he is an influencer. And, I like his music although the lyrics leave a bit to be desired. But it was really more from a very basic level... I know what it's like to lose someone close and so I was just asking God to keep his heart soft and not bitter and hard... To extend grace.

The first two words in my journal this morning were "Radical Grace." Kanye needs God's radical grace... I need God's radical grace. You need God's radical grace. I asked the question this morning... Who does God love more... the murdered or the murderer? Who does God love more... the oppressed or the oppressor? Hilter or the Jew? The aborted or the doctor?

Radical Grace...

I prayed for Kanye this morning...