benjamincanady

The Biggest Loser

2009-08-31T10:43:00.002-04:00

The Biggest Loser is about to begin again. Check out this link for an emotional preview!
http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/video/clips/the-biggest-loser-extended-preview/1152091/

Highs and Lows

2009-08-30T20:52:00.002-04:00

So, today was filled with a lot of highs and a lot of lows.

But first, in case you missed it last week, I finally crossed the halfway point in the weight loss journey! I have officially lost 51 lbs since April 19th! But now, back to the blog entry....

Today I started the day with something I never thought possible...I ran a 5k race! It's one thing to run 3 miles in the neighborhood. It's a completely different animal when you are racing with hundreds of people around you! It was great! It was super! I was somewhere in the middle of the pack...which is a good place to be I guess. I certainly didn't break any speed records, but I got out there and I DID IT! During the post-race awards, they even had three people from The Biggest Loser there, which was cool.

After all the festivities, I got home and it was time to shower, cook lunch, etc. Once I was home, though, I noticed that my ankle/heel on my right leg was KILLIN' me. Since I started running back in April, my right leg has always bothered me a little bit. Nothing that a little ibuprofen and my ankle brace couldn't cure. But this really hurt...bad. I'm writing this blog at 9pm, and it still hurts to walk on.

So...in order to get better, my lifestyle coach Carlyn has put me on BootCamp and running probation until the ankle gets nice and rested and better. And let me first say, she's absolutely right. I need the rest. All the articles I've read on running and exercise claims that real strength and results come during rest and recovery times. But that small voice in the back of my mind is saying, "what will happen to all of your forward progess while you rest?!? You'll gain weight!". But I know that voice is stupid and needs to shut up. So what if I gain a pound? If I royally screw up my ankle worse, then I'll be out LONGER and REALLY lose momentum. So, for a few days, I'm hangin' up the sneakers and resting...relaxing...and recovering.

Let's all think of this as a halftime show (since I'm watching football on NBC at work right now). Let's let the band come out and play. I need to regroup, refocus, and come back out for the second half at 100%. I'm gonna win this game.

And yes, since you are my cheerleaders, you have to wear the cute little skirt!

The First 100 Days!

2009-07-28T12:33:00.002-04:00

Much like the President, my first 100 days has been fun, difficult, rewarding, and painful.
It's been exactly 100 days since I took the plunge and started on this new healthy lifestyle. AND I FEEL GREAT!

So, what has changed in the last 100 days:

Lost 48 lbs (at last weigh in last week)
Lost 2 ring sizes. Bought a new wedding ring last weekend.
Lost 4 pants sizes. Getting close to going to a new one.
Added 4 new belt holes on my old belt.
Averaging 4 mile run - 5 to 6 times a week.
Was able to pass down/up some shirts to my dad.
Signed up for my first 5k run which is on August 30th.

AND I FEEL GREAT!

I'm like a kid in a candy store. I love updating my Facebook profile pic when new weight-losing pics. I love weigh-ins (I know that is horrible).

I use weigh-ins as a motivator. Carlyn, and several weight loss websites I've researched, thinks it's smart to only weight once a week. THAT KILLS ME! I understand the reasoning behind it, though. I shouldn't see all the little fluctuations that weight loss brings on. But still!

And what makes it worse, is that Carlyn agreed to buy me a massage when I hit my halfway point. I was at 48 lbs loss last Thursday morning. That's only 2 lbs away from my halfway point! (Yes..for those good at math...I'm shooting for a total of 100 lost). I could be halfway right now and not even know it! It kills me! But you better believe on Thursday morning, I'm going to be on that scale.

If you are reading this, let me tell you, it's hard work...but it is definitely worth it! No pills, no creams, no weird diet. Just exercise, watching calories, a friendly pushes from friends, family, and God! You can do it too!

Who's up for a run?

72 days in...still going strong

2009-06-30T10:37:00.002-04:00

I've been on my weight loss journey now for 72 days. As of my last weigh in (2 days ago), I have lost 39 pounds.

My weight loss has slowed a little bit...but that was to be expected after such a dynamic start.

It's interesting to see what milestones I feel like I need to hit. First it was 25 lbs. Now, I feel like if I just hit that 40 lbs mark (one pound away)...that will be a good "push" to go the next leg of this race. I don't have to tell you what kind of craziness will be going on when I hit the 50 mark. That will represent the exact halfway point of my total loss.

It's also interesting how I view myself. Oh sure, I feel great. My clothes are all too big these days (except my skinny jeans I purchased a few weeks ago). Deep down inside, though, I still feel like that fat person. I guess it is a little like when a person loses an arm. To some degree, they still feel that it is there. Well, to some degree, I still feel that the fat is all still there (stupid mental block). I can still see myself in the mirror and I know that I still have a ways to go....but I'm getting there.

And...for those keeping score on the exercise, I've decided that I'm a fulltime runner now. I love running. I love sweating. I love the endorphins/elations after a good run. I love getting sun when I run. I love the solitude of having "me" time while jammin' to the iPod. For 40 minutes everyday...the entire world is at peace. 5 minute walking warmup. 30 minutes to run 3 miles. 5 minute walking cooldown.

I seriously gotta get with the program and sign up for a 5k run this summer. I have two picked out...I just have to pay to register.

End of 8 weeks..some victories!

2009-06-12T23:24:00.002-04:00

This new journey I have been on for the past 8 weeks has been AMAZING. It has been at times tiring, many times rewarding...and just overall a good experience.

I had to find out what really works for me. Running. Who knew? My ENTIRE life...I've always struggled with running. Short-winded, shin pain, stitch in my side...you name it...I've had it. A friend of mine at work (Hey Leah!) turned me onto http://www.c25k.com This is a site that is designed to take you from the Couch, to running a 5k (hence C 2 5k). It starts off slow...and don't get me wrong...at first, I thought I was going to DIE running for 90 seconds at a time (it was that bad). I am now in the 8th week of the program and I ran 28 minutes WITHOUT walking this morning! WHAT?!?!?!? It's still a S-L-O-W run...but it is still a run, nonetheless. Next week, I should be reaching my goal of running a 5k in it's entirety. I love to run. I've picked out a race in August that I'm interested in, but I haven't registered for it yet. Still thinking about it. I usually run on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

On the days I don't run, I like to use the new game from E.A. Sports for the Wii called ACTIVE. This is a cardio/exercise game that puts Wii Fit to shame. Cardio boxing, squats, and sports drills get me sweatin' on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and occasionally Saturdays.

I rest on Sundays.

I watch what I eat in addition to all of the exercising.

Today's victories....I stepped on the scales this morning and I have lost 36 pounds since I started on April 19th! I am a third of the way to my goal!

Victory #2 came when I went to purchase some new jeans (all my pants are literally falling off of me). I used to wear a very TIGHT 42. It was always a loose/relaxed cut. In some instances, I had gained too much to buy stuff at Kohls or Target (Walmart usually had stuff that fit). But today...today was a different story. I was able to purchase two pair of jeans. Today's size was 36! ORIGINAL CUT! Not relaxed or carpenter! It felt absolutely great, as you might imagine. The only problem is I had to wash them and I didn't have time to do that before going to work...so I couldn't show them off! (I sound like a girl).

Tomorrow is a new day with new experiences. I am going to the community pool at my parent's neighborhood. It'll be the first time in a VERY LONG time that I won't feel like wearing a t-shirt in the pool. While I still have a ways to go...I'm certainly excited about showing off the new chassis!

Thanks to EVERYONE that has been following me and my progress. Thanks for the prayers and all of the kudos. You guys are as much a part of this process as the diet and exercises! THANK YOU!

This photo was taken almost 2 weeks ago after a great run!

2 Weeks In...update

2009-05-05T11:42:00.002-04:00

Two weeks ago, I changed my life. I didn't go on a diet, I made a lifestyle change.

"They" say that the first few weeks of a new habit are the hardest. Don't get me wrong, I have had my challenges, but all in all, I haven't really struggled with this. Is this just a mindset that I have suddenly entered into?

I wake up early to workout. 2 things wrong with that statement. "Early" and "workout"...two word that were 'bad' words in my vocabulary only 2 weeks ago. Don't tell anyone, but I actually look forward getting up and working out. It doesn't matter whether it is running with my new sneakers, or boxing on the Wii...I wakeup ready to go.

So, if you remember, my goal is to drop 100 lbs. As of this morning's weigh in, I have dropped 16.5 of those (in only 2 weeks). 83.5 left to go!

Hope the rain holds off tomorrow...gotta get runnin'!

Day 1. Loser.

2009-04-20T11:04:00.004-04:00

Sunday, April 19, was a big day for me. A rough day. An unexpected day.

I went to church (http://www.mytruenorth.org) like most Sundays. We are in a series called "Hostage". We're talking all about what are those things in your life that are keeping you from experiencing TRUE freedom in life and your walk with God. This week's topic was simply called "Addiction". I have no addictions (okay, maybe Mt. Dew) so this was going to be an easy one for me to hear.

Then a lady, we'll call her Wendy, cuz well...that is her name! Wendy got up and talked to us about her addiction to alcohol. She talked about sneaking drinks and lying about it. She talked about how she was always concerned about when/where her next drink was going to be.

That's when God smacked me in the back of the head.

I've done the same thing with food...for a long time. Oh sure, I overeat at meals...but it goes way beyond that. If I went through the drivethru to pick up dinner for the family, I'd get an extra cheeseburger and eat that on the way home...so that it looked like at dinner I only ate the one. My favorite time would be at night, after the rest of the family went to bed...I'd eat something while I was watching tv. Piece of balongna here, spoonfuls of peanut butter there, bowl of pretzels, etc.

Wendy, using some sermon notes from Jon from over a year ago, said that you need to first TAKE IT TO GOD. Did that. TAKE IT TO OTHERS. Talked to Carlyn, and now the rest of the world. TAKE IT DOWN. That's next.

So Carlyn and I talked about it. I wanted to see a counselor for my addiction to food. And that might still be in the pipeline. After studying for a while, we decided that I would join the Biggest Loser Club online. And hey, since I work for NBC...what better way to support our own show!

Last night, before I went to bed, I fired up Wii Fit. And yes, it yelled at me and told me I had not done ANYTHING for 250 days! And then it weighed me. 265. That's two hundred and sixty five pounds. According to ideal weight charts, I should weigh no more than 155. I know your math is as good as mine...I need to lose a 5th grader. I need to lose 110 pounds. Officially, on the Biggest Loser Club, my goal is 100 pounds (nice round number).

So, officially, today is Day 1. I got up this morning and went running. On a Monday. With a drizzle in the air (man, he MUST be serious). I didn't run for long, but I got out there. It was a cornecopia of running, jogging, walking, and perhaps a little crawling.

I know this is going to be hard. I know the deck is stacked against me. I'm not looking for pity...but just support. Prayers. Perhaps someone to buy me some running shoes, LOL!

This photo was taken last week. I'm hoping this person becomes extinct soon enough.

2009-03-12T13:31:00.001-04:00

Bout to have a busy afternoon at the station

Stream of Consciousness

2009-03-12T12:06:00.002-04:00

Okay...so it has been a while since I have updated my blog...

And...I update my FB/Twitter status several times a day. I know that there are some of you out there that only follow one or the other, or this blog. So, at least for a trial time, I have linked all of them together.

So, this blog will have live updates as to what I am doing. After all, Twitter is micro-blogging at it's finest.

Just wanted to get everyone up to speed here.

2009-03-12T12:02:00.001-04:00

Peanut butter and jelly sandwich at my desk. I love eating like a kid!

2009-03-12T11:33:00.001-04:00

Check out ping.fm!

"GreatMother" Canady

2008-12-29T21:34:00.003-05:00

Today was a day of both sorrow and celebration. Today, we buried the woman my daughter calls GreatMother.

That's the name Makayla calls Great Grandmother Canady (my dad's mom...but you figured that out already). GreatMother Canady is THE one you think of when you think of what a grandmother is supposed to be.
(and yes...Stewart....I did "take" this pic from you...but I love it)

Grandmother Canady was without a doubt, the gentlest, soft-spoken, servant of God you will EVER meet. The idea of a swear word from this woman was, "Oh foot!". That was it.

The smallest things tickled her. She was SO interested in everything we had to say...even if she didn't understand...or even if she didn't "hear ALL the words" we said. After a story from my dad, she would almost always answer with a, "Lord Randy, you know not!" (Randy of course is Dad's name).

She loved telling us about her "score" at bingo that week. One week she won kleenexes, the week before that...soda! She was a master at that game.

Thirsty? Go ahead and get one of them Co-Colers out of the fridge. (and of course it was usually the glass bottles...very trendy and cool).

At lunch today, the grandchildren talked about her "palettes". You see, when you went to visit Grandmother, and you spent the night, you got to sleep on a palette. A palette was a complex system of quilts and blankets...stacked in a particular way on the floor. This engineering marvel was topped with a "piller" and a top sheet....and don't you know, that was one of the best places to sleep. And even though Grandmother snored, it was still a great experience.

And there are only a few people in history that I can think of that had the servant's heart that my Grandmother had. She never wanted the spotlight (not even sure she would have enjoyed all the attention she got today). Many, many years ago when Grandaddy was sick and in the nursing home...she was there EVERYDAY. Holding his hand, doing his laundry, whispering "it's going to be okay" in his ear when all he could do is shout "Rosa MAE!" at the top of his lungs...not able to say much else. It was her duty and privilege to serve. Even if deep down inside she thought it was a chore, I never knew. I think about some of my darkest days, 4 years ago when I was caring for a sick wife with cancer AND a newborn baby girl, Grandmother Canady was the model of servanthood that I had. It wasn't about her and it wasn't about me.

This past Friday, Heaven welcomed one of their most prized angels in my Grandmother. We love you and miss you already, Grandmother.

For a much more eloquent blog entry about Rosa Mae, visit my cousin, Stewart's blog here.

Don't worry

2008-11-02T22:16:00.003-05:00

Today, Pastor Jon talked about not worrying. Most of what we worry about in life, we have NO control over...and no responsibility to be worrying about in the first place.

As we take a look at our lives, we need to see all the things we are thankful for...and not just the problems. As I look at my own life, there are a few things to note:

1. Both Carlyn's and my cars are old and have significant problems. BUT...at least we live in a country where we are able to have two cars. We have freedom to go when and where we want.
2. We live paycheck to paycheck. BUT...at least I have a job that pays as well as it does so that my wife can stay at home to raise our daughter.
3. Our 4 year old daughter is testing our patience everyday. BUT...at least she is healthy and actually brings unmeasurable joy into our lives.
4. I have to drive 35 minutes to get to work. BUT...at least I have that time to clear my head and sometimes spend with God.
5. We couldn't decide earlier what to have for dinner. BUT...at least we had several options. God has provided us well.

And I was going to make my list longer, but realized....hey....why am I trying to come up with a list of things that I worry about, or that are troublesome. Honestly, if my list is only 5 things...and one is about what we had for dinner...I am blessed beyond my wildest imagination.

When you really get down to it...what are YOU worried about? Really?

The 80's live again!

2008-10-09T13:50:00.001-04:00

As if the 80's ever really went away.

Came across this video and thought everyone should experience it as well. It is a LITERAL re-voicing of a-Ha's Take On Me video.. You know the one with the comic book that comes alife and back.

Enjoy!

Super Benjamin!

2008-10-08T16:29:00.001-04:00

If I had a theme song...I think it would be better than this one...at least I'd hope.

http://www.makemesuper.com/r.php?i=4_236e3-132740-m-Benjamin

Enjoy!

Chuck Norris endorsed!

2008-09-24T13:35:00.001-04:00

Had I seen THIS...my vote might be different come November!

Wagons

2008-09-04T20:51:00.002-04:00

So...for Makayla's upcoming birthday, we thought she could benefit from a wagon. Something to use at the zoo, the park, the fair...etc. In an email from my dad, he started writing about his youth and having a wagon...it was so good...I thought I'd share it with all of you:

"Wagons" by Randy Canady
I was once a kid... had a wagon... played with it in the yard and on the driveway. Put one knee in the bottom and pushed it with my other foot on the ground. Had dynamite control... with my knee in the bottom and my bare foot wedged against the back. Why I could handle a corner at 100 miles per hour... or so it seemed. Didn't need some ole grown-up to pull me around... I had the handle bent back and one good foot on the ground. Got lots of exercise and occasionally got a break with a ride unassisted down a hill. Loaded it with all my junk and pulled it around wherever. Occasionally filled it with leaves or twigs to help out with cleaning up the yard. Occasionally helped dad move something heavy by balancing it on the sides and slowly moving from one place to another. It was an early "utility vehicle" of sorts. It was a wagon... I was a kid... what did I know?? I was happy.

Occasionally I got going too fast and it dumped me on the ground... but occasionally on the pavement below. I was happy... I had a wagon... I was just a kid! Needed something moved short of a refridgerator???? I'm available... I got a wagon!! When the "gunfire" started, I'd roll it over on it's side and hide behind it... firing when able, unless, of course, I had been wounded. If wounded, I'd just lay there until the coast was clear! I was a kid... I had a wagon.... I was happy.

One day, I decided to ride it standing in the bed... fine until the wagon stopped... and I didn't! But what did I know... I was just a kid with a wagon... I was happy. I made my own entertainment! I knew better would come along some day... but if not... I was happy with my wagon.

It's amazing how high you can reach when you pile things up on top of your wagon. Once I stacked two open lawn chairs and a crate on top of my wagon (wheels down, by the way) to reach something Daddy had "put up" in the garage. Bet he didn't know I could reach it with my wagon!! Then there was that mean cat in the neighborhood! Cat not so mean under my turned upside down wagon!!! The next day... I felt remorse and lifted my wagon. I'll bet it's mother will quit calling it now!! But what did I know... I was a kid... had a wagon... lots of time in the yard.

Had to come in when the street lights came on. Only wore shorts and a mean buzz haircut. No shoes... they just slowed me down. Surely didn't take long for my tub bath. Only having to take off my shorts and "tighty-whities" only too a second! My feet and toes took a beating... always stepping on something sharp, or mean. I wish I had a dollar for every stumpted toes... I could really retire then.

But I was happy... I had a wagon and lots of love.

How To Pronounce Beijing!

2008-08-21T16:35:00.001-04:00

Okay...the Olympics are drawing to a near, but I came across this fun video on the PROPER way to pronounce the host city of Beijing.

Watch and learn!

Olympic Hopefuls

2008-08-17T13:28:00.003-04:00

So, we are at about the halfway point of the Olympics in Beijing. Since I work at NBC, it has really generated a lot of late nights and extra work for us.

To celebrate the halfway point, I thought I'd share some of the Olympic hopefuls that DIDN'T get invited to China.

Enjoy!

Morning Show Fun

2008-08-13T22:16:00.002-04:00

You gotta love live news. This was on our newscast this morning...early.

And the winner is....

2008-07-21T21:37:00.003-04:00

So, as many of you may know that my family and I have been looking for a new church.

We have decided that our new church is True North Church in Garner, NC. TNC meets in the White Oak theater and has tons of personality.

The senior pastor, Jon McClarnon, has a passionate heart for what God is doing in the Garner area. He's hilarious and down to earth...the kind of guy you'd wanna go have lunch with...

True North is cool because it doesn't have it all figured out. It is raw, and fresh, and new.

If you're in the Garner area on a Sunday morning, come check out True North (off Exit 306 on I-40).

Hard Stapled

2008-07-17T20:58:00.002-04:00

So, as many of you know, I love movies. Even went to film school. But as of yet, I haven't done anything with my passion. Perhaps, just perhaps, this was the catalyst I needed to return and try to do something with film.

One of my friends, Christopher Moore, shot a critically acclaimed comedy short and has recently be invited to take part in an upcoming film festival.

Check out his short "Hard Stapled"

DewMocracy

2008-06-11T13:23:00.001-04:00

My Lovely Bride

2008-05-19T16:21:00.003-04:00

Many of you out there, know my wife, Carlyn. Some of you, perhaps, may have not met her yet.

Carlyn Jaye Bradley Canady RN BSN MDiv.com (her full name that I call her) is the best thing that has ever happened to me. This time of year is always special in our household. For you see, there's Mother's Day. A few days later, Carlyn and I celebrate our wedding anniversary (on the 17th). And then 4 days after that, we celebrate Carlyn's birthday. It's all about the Carlyns!!

We just celebrated 11 years of marriage. And for those that know us, know that we have been through a lot! But no matter what we go through, good or bad, we both know that in the end, it will still be the three of us (Makayla is the third, duh).

Carlyn is one of the biggest factors in my life when it came to refocusing my attention to my Christian walk. In college, I sort of drifted away (as many do). Now don't get me wrong, it wasn't a 180 turn away from Christ...just not a daily focus as it should be. It was Carlyn's passion and drive that really helped me steer back to what was most important.

I remember our first date. It was an unofficial date where we had lunch together with a lot of friends at a dumpy Mexican joint. We flirted like middle schoolers...and we were both college students! Then our first "official" date the following week, we both took off our tomatoes and cucumbers off of our salads at the OutBack...we knew it was love.

We've celebrated life and death together.
We are each other's biggest cheerleaders (although I really hate wearing the skirts).
We rate each other's burps (you guys know this is important).
We "get" each other.

You would think that well into our 30's, that we would have grown out of popping each other with the dishtowel in the kitchen...but alas no. Carlyn...remember, don't pop me in my face (that's my money maker!).

We are as content with a night on the town as we are at home doing nothing.

Thank God Carlyn loves Nintendo.
Thank God Carlyn loves Macs.
Thank God Carlyn loves Japanese food.
Thank God Carlyn tolerates my love of Def Leppard.
Thank God Carlyn loves the fact that I love Bugs Bunny cartoons.
Thank God Carlyn loves me.

Carlyn is the best mom I could hope for our daughter Makayla. Her constant push to correct Makayla is shaping her to be a confident and strong little woman. Her unconditional love of her is unmatched. Her ability to nurture and lead is amazing.

I love Carlyn's obsession with all things Eeyore.
I love Carlyn's obsession with web based computer games/puzzles.
I love Carlyn's obsession with sweet tea.
I love Carlyn's obsession with wanting more out of a local church.
I love Carlyn's obsession with the line of Saturn automobiles.
I love Carlyn.

To really know Carlyn is to love her. I love all the little things that make up who she is. She is my partner, my wife, and my best friend.

To quote our vows 11 years ago (which quoted a movie before that)..."She completes me". Now, if you must barf, please don't do it on your computer, those things are expensive.

I love you Carlyn!

World's crappiest radio

2008-05-12T16:54:00.002-04:00

Okay. So, my car is aging, and not gracefully.

Apparently, there is some kind of wicked short somewhere in the radio wiring. If I apply my brakes to stop the car, the sound appears to float to the front of the car while stopping. Of course, it sounds like the back speakers are cutting out, but it sounds like the radio sloshes the sound forward when I brake.

This is a stupid improvement from the previous problem of having to hit the door like Arthur Fonzerelli to get the sound to play out of the left side of the car.

ANYONE OUT THERE GOOD WITH CAR AUDIO? I CLEARLY NEED HELP!

What do you do for a living?

2008-05-02T20:59:00.003-04:00

I get that question a lot. Even when I tell someone that I am a director for a local news station, they still don't understand.

A friend of mine showed this video to me on YouTube and it is the most realistic (even though it is 30 years old)...the most realistic and honest look at what I do each and every day.

One thing to keep in mind as you watch...THIS director featured, is just a director. I get to fullfill HIS job along with the video switcher AND the assistant director (I have neither of those positions with me).

Enjoy:

Retirement Homes are COOL!

2008-04-07T13:33:00.003-04:00

My grandmother lives in a retirement community here in Raleigh. They were just featured in the News and Observer as a place where older citizens are now experiencing Nintendo's Wii.

The thinking is, is that younger generations (grandchildren) would come to play Wii with their grandparents. Things like golf and tennis. This also does double duty in that the older folks get a chance to exercise as well.

The best thing about this article? This picture:

Thank God Nintendo put on the Wiimote straps...but she isn't using one!!!!

And, not only do they play the Wii there....but last time we were there, The Matrix was playing on the lobby television! I can't imagine someone actually turned it to there...but who knows? I just hope no one was confused with the whole blue pill and red pill scene and end up taking their medication at the wrong time (that was wrong...why did I say that?)

One Prayer

2008-04-06T19:53:00.002-04:00

Most of you know where I came from and what I used to do. I still feel like I have my finger on the pulse of what is going on in Church Media. But nothing prepared me for what is going to happen in June of this year. Check out the video below...I can't wait. Somehow, someway...I'll be a part of "One Prayer".

This is going to be the best summer ever!

2008-03-29T00:50:00.001-04:00

I can't wait! And no...I had NOTHING to do with the making of this!

Easter Weekend and my cousin

2008-03-24T20:00:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!

I hope that your Easter weekend was absolutely delightful! I had a great time. On Saturday night, I went to C3 and directed the 5pm service. I love going to church on Saturday nights! We had a great turnout...I think I heard 1500 people in attendance for Saturday!

On Sunday, we got up and saw what the Easter Bunny had left Makayla...101 Dalmations the original movie and another pony. My life is overrun with My Little Ponies!

Then we went over to my parent's house to spend the rest of the day together with my family. While we were hanging out, my sister said, "hey...did you see Stewart's blog about you?". I was like "huh?".

One of my cousins is a photojournalist for the Fox affiliate in High Point. His blog "Viewfinder Blues" is phenomenal. He has a way of writing that really puts you in the heart of the action. Check out his blog on me here. Then stick around and check out some of his other writings.

Best Highlights...ever!

2008-03-21T22:13:00.003-04:00

It's March Madness! Madness I tell you!

So...the NCAA has special rules about how soon you can show highlights of games and stuff from the Tournament. So, how do you show highlights?
Check out how 17 does it.

My Family

2008-03-18T20:54:00.004-04:00

Some people have these on their vehicles...but I'm a geek at heart...so they reside on my blog!

So apparently the people who designed these stick figures have never met us. While my hair might be right, I am not that skinny and I certainly have more than three fingers on each hand. Carlyn, almost NEVER wears a skirt...and if she does...she ALWAYS wears a shirt with it. Makayla would have ripped that bow out of her hair...probably because it didn't match with the skirt. And why does Ember look like Underdog run through a straw?!?

C3 Easter Commercial

2008-03-14T16:22:00.001-04:00

Ahh...the smells of Spring!

2008-03-14T13:58:00.002-04:00

This is the view I get when I pull up to work:

It's a lovely way to greet me at the beginning of my work day. The trees are in full bloom...just simply gorgeous.

But this scene isn't all it appears to be. You see, these trees are Bradford Pear Trees. I don't know if you have ever been around one of these when they are in full bloom, cuz, as nice as they look...they SMELL HORRIBLE!

I mean...somewhere between feet and butt (to be brutally honest)! When it's real bad, it's enough to choke a goat. But at least it looks nice, right?

Today it isn't actually TOO bad. I was able to take my sandwich outside and enjoy my lunch on a picnic table. Today is absolutely gorgeous!

God is GOOD! Please, go ahead and enjoy YOUR Friday. I hope that it is a beautiful (and not smelly) one!

The Return of BamBam

2008-03-11T00:10:00.003-04:00

After almost two years...BamBam has returned to NBC17!

Today was my first day back at the old job. It was great to see everyone...although a lot of faces had changed since the last time I was there. A lot of changes had been made to the studio as well.

But the control room was the same. It was neat to see a lot of the effects that I had built originally when this switcher was installed were still there.

For those that are familiar with the control room at C3 Church....here's a taste of what I am running now...pretty cool, huh?

Thanks to everyone who prayed for me today. I felt those prayers as I was at work. The transition back to NBC is going to be smooth, I think.

C3 Tech Champ....Who's Next?

2008-03-03T10:35:00.000-05:00

Prayer for a father

2008-03-01T17:58:00.002-05:00

okay..... I need some prayers here.

Carlyn, Makayla, and I went shopping with my parents down at the pottery.

While we were waiting for Carlyn to make her selection....a little boy walked up to Makayla and was clearly staring at here. Not totally knowing what to do.... Mak just smiled at the boy. As the boys mother came to retrieve him...makayla said to the boy "thanks for looking"!

Please pray for me as a father.

Old things new again

2008-02-28T08:52:00.003-05:00

Anyone else seeing this trend? I know that trend cycle through like this....but it just seems weird.

I mean, let's take a look at recent television, shall we? Since Christmas, we have seen the return of American Gladiators (Gladiators....ready?!?) and my beloved Knight Rider.

Don't get me started on the fact that it is a Mustang...that's for another blog at another time.

The truth is, my life is showing the same trend. Last week, I accepted an offer to return to NBC17 as one of their directors. You see, I left 17 almost two years ago to go into fulltime ministry. And now, because of some certain circumstances, I am looking forward to a job I already once held. Weird. Exciting. But with the new job overhaul...I won't be driving a pimped out Mustang....no....I'll still be driving my 10 year old purple Neon. Some trends never die.

Princess Night

2008-02-26T22:44:00.003-05:00

Makayla Grace....Cinderella. Cinderella....Makayla Grace.

Now we have to hear about it for MONTHS.....great mileage out of one night of fun.

For more on Princess Night...check out Carlyn's blog here.

Star Wars to a three year old...

2008-02-24T21:43:00.001-05:00

Okay....there is only one other 3 year old that is this cute....but Makayla hasn't seen Star Wars yet.

Enjoy!

RIP Spanky. Welcome EUGENE. Who's next?

2008-02-20T18:54:00.003-05:00

Okay...many of you know that the harddrives that I do most of my work with....have unique names.

Because I have so many files, it is necessary to name the harddrives so I can keep everything straight.

Today, I lost a good soldier. I haven't totally given up on him, because he still flickers a little bit....but SPANKY only has a short time to live. Please pray for Spanky. There are many good files that still reside in SPANKY...notably this week's C3 News.

I'd like to welcome one new player to the field. A harddrive that is on permanent loan from another staff member....let me introduce EUGENE. EUGENE promises to be a faithful harddrive.

But now...there is a new kid on the block. I purchased a personal harddrive... something I can back up my computer on and be able to transfer files home. But this kid doesn't have a name...so I hold a contest.

Keep in mind, this name should work well with his co-workers: Big Daddy, Ethel, Stanley, Gertrude, Spanky, and Eugene.

Christmas Thoughts.....

2008-01-01T16:16:00.000-05:00

Well....about an hour ago, this corner had our family Christmas Tree up in it. One of my most favorite times all year is the afternoon when I get to put it up (Thanksgiving weekend sometime). One of the least favorite times is taking it all down. The decorations really act as bookends to my Christmas season.

This Christmas has had some really high highs and some really low lows.

Lows include:
1. Long nights at the church, getting it ready for Christmas...away from Family.
2. Carlyn's back issues and all that encompasses.
3. Septic tank backed up into the house a little bit on Christmas Eve....which I believe scarred Makayla's memory of this Christmas.

Highs include:
1. The new pair of iPhones that Carlyn and I own. Love it!
2. Seeing Makayla play with her new My Little Ponies.
3. Directing the Christmas services in our new worship center.
4. Spending time with Carlyn and Makayla and my family.

This year, I am not setting any particular goals or resolutions. Just to do better in everything. 2008 is going to be great...I just know it.

finally!!!!!!

2007-12-14T02:17:00.000-05:00

Finally the day arrives!!!!! Carlyn and joined the revolution and we got each other iPhones!!!!! In fact, I can't sleep. I am blogging from bed using the phone. I loaded this puppy up with music and movies and I am prepared to sit in a waiting room all day tomorrow.

I am truly a kid in a candy store.

1st Wednesday thoughts...

2007-12-06T23:15:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, we celebrated the LAST 1st Wednesday service of not only 2007, but the last one in our current worship center. From here on out, 1st Wednesdays will be in the new worship center, ushering in a new energy and taking the service to a whole, 'nutha level!

Some of you guys haven't experienced C3 Church yet. For those that have never walked in through the doors, take a look and a listen just how different church can be!

Way Cool

2007-12-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

Last week, I had an opportunity to check out some new software that is used in churches for their video presentations.

It's called ProPresenter and Pro Video Player. Built on the Mac platform, I don't have to tell you that they are just awesome. Hopefully after the first of the year, we can update our current set up at church and use this system instead of MediaShout.

But that isn't the really cool part. The guy that was giving the demo of the software, uses this product on a regular basis....as the multimedia guy for CHRIS TOMLIN! How cool is that? It's great to see someone playin' in the big leagues....to meet them...and to see that they are as normal as I am (of course, I'm not TOO normal).

Name Droppin'

2007-11-27T18:11:00.000-05:00

Okay....we were watching Gospel Music Channel (channel 129 on Time Warner) today and saw this video.

Now, if you are a fan of Christian music (new and old), you'll appreciate this video. It's from T-Bone and it's called "Name Droppin' ". Check it out:

Take a Peek!

2007-11-22T18:01:00.000-05:00

Twas the week of Thanksgiving, and all through HIS house,
creatures are stirring....maybe even a mouse.
The speakers are hung from the trusses with care,
in hopes that services soon will be there.
With lifts on the floor and lights up above,
things are happening and handled with love.
The moment is soon for worship and song...
Hearing Matt in this room, it won't be long.
December 23rd is just around the bend,
its a new beginning, not the end.
Don't be left out, don't be in a lurch
...Come celebrate Christmas at C3 Church!

Tried to fight it....and lost

2007-11-12T23:28:00.000-05:00

I tried to fight it. Mostly it was thrust upon me. I didn't want to do it...but it just happened.

I got into the Christmas spirit!!!!

You see, I work for a church, okay? Our Minister of Worship was practicing some Christmas songs and making arrangements for the upcoming services. Strike 1.

And today, I had to start working on a video promo for our Christmas services. This means, I revisited last year's service DVD to get some ideas....Strike 2.

The final blow...because I was working on a video, I had to load my Christmas music on my computer. Strike 3. I'm out. I haven't been to the mall lately (I hear it is already pretty scary).

Oh...and one more strike (I know I'm already out)....I sent out an email to my ministry team trying to plan out the Christmas party for this year.

I will say, that I have already purchased one Christmas gift....so I guess I am a little ahead of the game. But I have a long way to go before I will ever be like my friend, Chris. He is done with his Christmas shopping already.

So, to share my mood with everyone, please enjoy this picture from a Christmas service here at C3 Church.

Hillsong...to a whole 'nutha level!

2007-11-07T23:54:00.000-05:00

Okay, so just when I think I had heard all that Hillsong had to offer...I was wrong.

Now, typically I have a problem with artist releasing the same songs, over and over again. HOWEVER, Hillsong London has issued a remix album of "Jesus Is". The new album is (are you ready for this..) Jesus Is: Remix.

It's an awesome presentation of trance, dance, and a little early 90s techno. If you are looking for an awesome album to use for worship OR dance....check it out. Enjoy.

Gas and Sage-like advice

2007-11-07T22:47:00.001-05:00

Okay. I saw this sign...and I had to make sure that everyone saw it:

Okay...where to begin? Let's start with the obvious thought...that we are getting life advice (even if it is good) from a gas station. I suppose that is better than a fortune cookie....I guess.

Secondly...I like the "N" in "around"....apparently the people we are building our lives around don't have spell check. Or...they are REALLY into the Toys R US font.

Lastly...Oh my CHICKEN! Thank you Jesus that I don't have to buy diesel! That is 3.89 worth of...wait a minute. That's actually 3.39 a gallon....some genius used a "B" as a 3. Oh...the comedy almost writes itself........

A Fresh Message

2007-11-04T21:54:00.000-05:00

It never fails to amaze me... I can hear a particular message a dozen times...and then I hear it that 13th time, and it rings anew in my heart and mind.

This week's message from Pastors Matt and Martha Fry was on Priorities. What does the Bible say that our priorities in life should be? Simply stated, 1. God. 2. Family. 3. Church.

As a minister, a personal struggle I deal with is where is the line for me? If, in my mind, God, Church, and Work are all one focus....how do I juggle my ministry and my family?

I think that the conclusion that I have arrived at, is that God in this equation, is my personal walk with Him...and not the job/ministry. It is easy for me to blur the lines. At the urging of the message on my heart today, the family comes first after my relationship with God. That may mean that I have to make some tough choices. I have to make a decision for me and my house.

If you missed this week's message, please check it out on the podcast here.

Quiet Before The Party

2007-11-04T08:23:00.000-05:00

So, here I sit in practice/rehearsal for our Sunday morning services. The drums are thundering and the electric is screaming (and it is only 8:30 in the morning). We are getting ready for all of the hurt and lost people to come through our doors in less than an hour. It's gonna be a great party.But this morning when I pulled up, it was a different story. The stillness of the morning was serene. I was the first person on campus and I had to snap a pic of the church before the hustle and bustle started.

No cars. No construction...is was awesome. Then I went inside and again....quiet. In fact, it was so quiet, that as I turned on the intelligent lighting in the worship center, I could hear each individual fixture firing...and that is a good 90 feet away from where I was.

It's neat to be witness to the two totally different environments I found myself in.

I pray that today, hundreds of people are able to come through our doors and have an encounter with God.

Things Back To Normal

2007-11-03T21:35:00.000-04:00

Isn't it weird when the littlest thing is outta whack? (have you ever heard of anything that was IN whack? Just curious).

We ordered a new design of our Technical Arts shirts at church a couple weeks ago. When we got the shirts in last week, we noticed that the church logo on the back was off. It took a second to realize what had happened, but after we noticed it, it was all I could see.

Our brand, our block logo was a C in the middle of a square...instead of an interlocking C and 3. So, we had to send all the shirts back...and finally this week, we got the new shipment in...and they are perfect.

Again, all things are back to normal.

Lights, Camera, Action!

2007-11-03T00:16:00.000-04:00

Stay tuned to find out what all this is about!

First Impressions

2007-11-02T23:36:00.000-04:00

As our church is a few weeks away from entering into our new worship center, we are more aware of first impressions....now more than ever.

We realize that a new building is going to generate buzz and excitement about our church. But we also need to recognize that getting people here is only part of the problem. Getting them to come back A SECOND TIME based off of that first impression is really the key.

This past week, the ministry staff accompanied Pastor Matt to the Focus on 5 Conference down in SC. As a part of his message, we had videotaped one of our members. She recalled for us the first time she ever came to C3 Church. Here is her story:

Guess who's back...back again?

2007-11-02T22:20:00.000-04:00

It's high time BamBam returns to the blogging world.

I've taken the blog around the web...and to be quite honest...Blogger does the best. It's the easiest to navigate...AND...it's free.

If you hit this site...go ahead and bookmark it....they'll be more to read soon. And don't forget, you can always hit BenjaminCanady.com for videos from church and much more!

See you in a few!