Latina Expo '08

The event was phenomenal!!
My pictures don't do any justice - I will post another link as soon as I get access to better shots.

Your toolbelt to Successful Community-Based Youth Ministry

This Saturday at UYWI08 in Azusa was encouraging... exhausting, but well worth the investment of time.
My session was at 8:30am, and only 2 people were in there at the gate - but then about a dozen people were taking notes and dialoguing by the end of the 80 minutes. Some even shared later that this was dialogue was exactly what they were looking for and came to the room only after being turned-away at another classes overflowing session.
I wanted to put this overview of the 40 Developmental Assets (QT version) from the (Search-Institute.org) that I feel is a great framework for our society to wrap around the developing lives of children today.

Stay in touch with the UYWI site for the upcoming downloads/podcasts/sessions that will be available for free (others available as a purchase).

Put it on your calendar for next May, 2009 if the Lord says the same!!

as L.Acosta would say, "Peace Out, Dog."

That's what I'm talking about!

That's what I'm talking about!
Originally uploaded by rmaxtorres

I have to post this. I think this will encourage many of you who are going through stuff. Two months ago, my dad wasn't doing this good. Look at the man now! Roll the tape -

Dad turned 79 today!

IMG_7786.JPG
Originally uploaded by rmaxtorres.

I am overjoyed that I was able to spend this day with my Dad to celebrate his 79th birthday. It was only 4 months ago that a thought compelled me to evaluate how much I treasured time spent with my parents. Then 2 months ago my Pops suffered a debilitating stroke which paralyzed his right side. As you will see in these pictures, he is now much better. Thanks to all those who pray and support my family. The evidence of miraculous recovery is evident in his ability to now walk (even without the walker), use his right hand and carry on full conversations.
I appreciate all who have helped my Dad get this far in his life.

Latina Expo 2008

May 22, 2008 is just around the corner!! If you are able to register your Middle School aged girls, go online now and do so before the spaces run out. The Hispanic Family Initiative is glad to see the great interest in this event, and believe it to be a timely occasion to provide support for our young developing leaders! Come and join us on this wonderful Thursday in May.

REMEMBER: If you are ready to be a volunteer, click on above link and follow the links to the Volunteer Sign-Up form.

Sinko de Mayo

Most people don't know that back in 1912, Hellmann's mayonnaise was manufactured in England. In fact, the Titanic was carrying 12,000 jars of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was to be the next port of call for the great ship after its stop in New York. This would have been the largest single shipment of mayonnaise ever delivered to Mexico.

But as we know, the great ship did not make it to New York. The ship hit an iceberg and sank, and the cargo was forever lost. The people of Mexico, who were crazy about mayonnaise, and were eagerly awaiting its delivery, were disconsolate at the loss.

Their anguish was so great, that they declared a National Day of Mourning, which they still observe to this day. The National Day of Mourning occurs each year on May 5th and is known, of course, as Sinko de Mayo.

Joey's Ninja

IMG_7482.JPG
Originally uploaded by rmaxtorres.

For those of you have not heard - Joey's gonna help the economy by saving petrol using his Jumpin Jiminy Cricket! His riding course is this weekend, and we'll see how he proceeds to keep the shiny side up.

Mex-Tex Word of the Day

*    "Shoulder." . . . .My tia wanted to become a citizen but che dint no how to read so I shoulder.

Feliz Año - Happy Birthday

Familia!
Originally uploaded by rmaxtorres.

Mom (seated) turned 71 on April 5. It was good to see more of our family as we visited Dad and celebrated Mom! The food was fantastico - especially the dessert.

Wildflower Blues (and Reds)

My travels to and from San Antonio are always pleasantly colored by God's floral variety (which TXDOT appreciates). I hope you enjoy these photos. Excuse the chrome and American Iron. :)