Here’s some of what I loved in the month of July, 2018:
1. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
I am a sucker for these movies. I have loved dinosaurs since I was little and have seen the original Jurassic Park more times than I could possibly conceive! The latest film in the franchise picks up as the island of dinos is about to be destroyed. The rescue mission, as it is called, is full of excitement and fast past action…but that is only the first half of the story. The second half is full of suspense and surprise. It was a well-directed and shot film, if not a wonderfully written one. Its biggest flaw is underdeveloped characters, but overall this was still a fun film.
2. Pool parties with friends
I had such a blast at 4th of July with friends. Swimming, playing games, and hanging out was wonderful. I am so thankful for the friends God has blessed me with.
3. Star Wars: The Last Jedi
I am late to the party but I finally saw this film. I honestly don’t quite get why fans hated it. I enjoyed it and found the story to be compelling.
4. Hammock naps
With our new hammock up I can’t help but find my way to the back yard early in the morning or late in the evening, but it’s Saturday afternoons as the sun sprinkles through the leaves that I find most enjoyable.
5. Disruptive Witness: Speaking the Truth in a Distracted Age by Alan Noble
This is such a phenomenal book. It is intelligent, thoughtful, and challenging in all the right ways. Noble prompts readers to think critically about how they are communicating the gospel message and notes the ways that technology and secularism are distorting the message we share with the culture around us. A great read on an important subject.
6. New MxPx Album
I have loved MxPx since I was in high school and their music still gets me pumped to this date. The new album doesn’t explore new ground and isn’t quite a throwback to their best work, but there are select tracks that I really enjoyed. “Let’s Ride” is particular fun. If the self-titled album tends towards too much pop and not enough punk, I think it’s still a decent release from an older band who is still going strong.
7. Visiting family in Pennsylvania
Our most recent family vacation took us to PA to see family that I haven’t seen in a long time. An important visit with my grandmother, a wonderful day with cousins and extended family, and a trip to Hershey Park made this a great visit. The kids loved visiting and getting to play with their aunt, their cousins, and my cousin. It was a special trip, even if it was too short.
Pastor Dave Online 