Brilliant Westcot

Westcot. Just the mention of it tends to put west coast Disney fans into turmoil. This was the worthy second gate, not the disjointed and cheap California Adventure. Although we cannot turn back the clock and neither can Disney, we can appreciate some of the rare but beautiful pieces of art created for the project. Here is one that is rarely seen, an evening view of the park with its icon brilliantly lit in the evening sky.

(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company)

Very Thankful!

The phrase “Give thanks to the Lord” appears 22 times in the Old Testament. Even though it is not a commandment in the “Big 10” sense, there can be no denying that God intends his people to have thankful hearts.

So many times I go through my life with the Lord asking of Him and asking of Him again. How rarely I stop and give thanks! What’s worse is I normally don’t even think I have made God my spiritual genie in a bottle. I pray for serious stuff- that this person or that person would start to have an intimate relationship with Jesus, that He would bless a particular ministry event, or protect my family, or help me resist temptation to sin- all good and important stuff, indeed. (And ok, if you must know, occasionally some frivolous things, too.) But I am still asking something of Him. I do stop to thank Him when what I have prayed for happens. Yet that is like speaking your appreciation to your earthly father for a gift he has given vs. hugging him and telling him you love him- just because. (Personal note: Hi Dad! I do love you, and thanks for all your love and support.)

When I stop to say thanks to God and tell Him I love him, then my eyes are off myself and the cares of the world. I focus on who He is, how good He is, and bless Him for what He has done. When I seriously consider these things, my heart is overwhelmed with love and gratitude and joy. Suddenly, all my worries and concerns fall into their proper place - all is well with my soul.

Song of Songs paints a beautiful picture of the Lover (Jesus) pursuing His Beloved (Us!). The heart of the Living God longs for us- and He is blessed when we speak of our love, thanks, and adoration for Him. Isn’t that the very least of what He deserves?

Where Has All the Magic Gone?

David Copperfield and The Walt Disney Company had great plans in the 1990s. A showcase for his magic and special effects would have been a great addition to the Disney-MGM Studios, but it was not to be. The latest misfire seemed to be one more disappointment and reminder to fans that this park was quickly losing its focus.

Although there would be some new projects to bring life to the Studios, including Fantasmic and Rock 'N' Roller Coaster, the executives and designers were struggling to find a new and workable direction. Bringing television filming and live productions to Florida was something that just wasn't happening for the company. The Tram Tour drew fewer and fewer numbers as Catastrophe Canyon became the only true standout in an otherwise boring attraction. The Great Movie Ride was in dire need of revamping. It was not pretty.

In the last decade, this park has survived due to the sheer power of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, but that is about to finally change. The magic would arrive in the form of a lamp, and the renaissance would begin.

Carpenters Live in Japan: The Leaders of the Pack

Due to a series of unexpected and very positive changes in my father's career, on Christmas Day in 1975 we found ourselves in Hawaii for a couple of weeks. I was instantly enchanted by the tropical climate, the lush vegetation and mixture of West Coast, Hawaiian and Asian cultures.

During an afternoon trip to the beautiful outdoor Ala Moana Mall in Honolulu, I wandered into a local record store and browsed through the bins. Of course, my first stop was the divider labeled "Carpenters". Although I was not expecting to find anything, I actually uncovered paydirt. "Live In Japan" was staring me in the face. I quickly grabbed it, and my heart raced with excitement as I took it to the cashier. Of course, being these were the days of LPs, it had to sit in our hotel room for another two weeks until I could get home.

The cover of this two record set was a beautiful photograph of the duo, Richard at the piano with Karen singing into the microphone with her eyes closed. It was a very contemporary looking shot, clean and crisp. The predominately black background perfectly set up a red Carpenters logo.

Removing the first record and placing it on the stereo, I didn't know what to expect. There was a bit of a sound check, some rumblings of the audience, then an introduction "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Carpenters". The beginning notes of "Superstar" came through the speakers. Here was a real moment of truth- what would she sound like live? Was her voice a trick of the studio? No, it wasn't, not at all.

It was marvelous. Rich, deeply emotive and self-assured, Karen gently but powerfully handled one of their more difficult songs with ease. Just as on The Singles album, this song led to Rainy Days and Mondays and then Goodbye to Love. Tony Peluso's powerful guitar solo was absolutely trendsetting in the studio, but it was almost explosive live. There was a rawness about the live recording that intrigued me. The production was clean sounding, the arrangements well done and the vocals almost a perfect match for their studio versions, yet it felt very organic and natural at the same time.

The crowd responded enthusiastically to a very cute countrified "Top of the World". This was followed by a song I never really understood Richard's love for: Mr. Guder. Yes, very impressive flute solo and vocals but certainly not anywhere my Top Ten list of songs they should be performing live at this point in their career. Where was "Baby It's You" or "This Masquerade" or "Let Me Be the One"? Thankfully, "Close to You" came next, followed by a few more hits. Karen then gave an intimate reading of "Hurting Each Other", ending record number one.

Record Two: The Oldies are so much fun! Wisely, Richard decided to let the band stretch a bit and not perform a note for note duplicate of Now and Then. Starting off with "Little Honda", Richard's vocals just shine! It was easy to tell the band is having a great time during this segment of the concert. Karen brought the seriousness of "End of the World" and the sweetness of "Johnny Angel" as expected, but she counters it with very playful takes on "Da Doo Ron Ron" and "Leader of the Pack". Their touring pal, comedian Pete Henderson adds more fun with his lead vocals on various other hits of the era. Surprisingly, the standout track is Richard's: "Daddy's Home", proving once more he needed to take more turns in front of the lead microphone. The Oldies set on the disc remains a reminder of our duo's versatility.

The closing side of the package begins with Karen's bilingual take on "Sing", including the Kyoto Children' Choir. She handles the Japanese- and the child performers- so well, it is difficult to remember how hard the language can be. Ending the concert, the band continues with the beautiful "Sometimes", the duo's signature "We've Only Just Begun" and the encore "For All We Know", each peformed flawlessly. The crowd appropriately shows its appreciation for their efforts.

Replacing the discs in their jacket, I was now determined to see the Carpenters live. After hearing Karen beyond the studio recordings, I was fully convinced she was the finest vocalist in American music. I couldn't wait for the next onslaught of Carpenters radio hits and concerts.

Karen with boyfriend Terry Ellis in 1974.

Capturing their sold out tour, this recorded concert is a bit brief at a little over an hour, but it includes most all the hits. It also set the stage for the next part of Karen and Richard's career- a time of rest and a time of focus on their personal lives. Having accomplished so much at such a young age, they do a bit of reflecting on their long term personal and career goals. What comes next is considered to be their musical masterpiece by many fans, but it comes at a very high price.

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2025 Note: This is part of a continuing series on the albums of Karen and Richard Carpenter. There are so many stand alone posts highlighting different aspects of their career, recordings, rare photographs, and life that I've lost count. 

Below is the list of my "Revisited /Fresh Look" the more extensive reviews than my initial ones a decade earlier. Each have different photos and clippings and focus on various aspects of each disc's creation, promotion, and public reaction.

My Revisited / Fresh Look at the albums:

Offering / Ticket to Ride
Close to You
Carpenters 
A Song for You 

Now & Then

The Singles 1969 - 1973

Live in Japan

Horizon

A Kind of Hush

Live at the Palladium

Passage

The Singles 1974 - 1978

Christmas Portrait

Karen Carpenter (The Solo Album)

My Initial Reviews of the albums:

Offering/Ticket to Ride

Close to You

Carpenters

A Song for You

Now & Then

The Singles 1969-1973

Live In Japan

Horizon

A Kind of Hush

Live at the Palladium

Passage

The Singles 1974-1978

Christmas Portrait

Made in America

Voice of the Heart

An Old Fashioned Christmas

Time (Richard Solo)

Lovelines

Karen Carpenter (Solo)

As Time Goes By

A Post Just for Married Men

Sex.
I have your attention now, don’t I?

I must admit, I think about sex often. I bet you do, too. Sometimes, I wonder if that is godly. I love that private time with my wife. Then I realize God created and blesses marital sex, and He calls it good. In the New Testament, Paul exhorts believers to remember that in marriage, the body of the husband also belongs to his wife, and the wife’s body also belongs to her husband (I Corinthians 7:3-4). I like that. Sounds like an abundance of love on command.

As with most things, Scripture challenges us with another level of application- the commandment to love our wives. Reading I Corinthians 13 reminded me that Biblical love is an action, not just a feeling. One section hit me square between the eyes: “Love… is not self-seeking” (vs. 5).

Sex.
(I just wanted to say it again to make sure I didn’t lose you for this next part!)

How many times I am selfish and self-seeking all day long! It’s a matter of what I want when I want it. Especially when I get home from the demands of the day. Occasionally, glimpses of change shine through. Maybe it is the same for you.

Our attention seems to be naturally tuned in to our careers, our pleasure, and our recreation. The culture we live in also reinforces our sin nature. You know- be all that you can be; go for the gusto; win at all costs; be the master of your universe; ad nauseum. Everything from computers to sports, captivates our hearts and occupies our time. We willingly spend our lives pursuing recognition, more money, more toys, and better bodies.

So what about loving our wives and giving ourselves up for them? (Ephesians 5). That is part of this marriage thing. We are called to love and serve our wives- to lay our lives down for them. What speaks sacrificial love to your wife? It is a dinner out, kind words, a cup of coffee and conversation, letting her have a night out while you watch the kids, or taking her to that “chick flick” she’s dying to see? The answers are endless, but only you know what those things are that speak of your preference for her over yourself and what you want.

Want more and better sex? Learn to love on your wife. Use your body, your whole body, to love her. Use your ears to listen to her about her day; your mouth to praise and encourage her; your hands to help her; your heart to understand how she feels; your feet to take her places she enjoys. Use your mind to choose her, instead of doing what just pleases you.

Put her above all others. Then she will be free to be who she really is- the woman of your dreams, the love of your life, the one you married. And your heart will be free to enjoy her. Lastly, seek the Lord with all you’ve got. Nothing is more attractive to a godly wife than a man who loves his Lord. A bulging wallet or bulging biceps can’t even come close.

Sex.
It’s a wonderful thing that God desires to make even better by laying down our lives for our wives. Don’t just believe me about what I’ve written- ask your wife.

Amazing Mont St. Michel

Certainly one of the most photographed icons in all of France! During our first trip to Europe in 1998, this was one of the places I couldn't wait to see. The beautiful little village that surrounds the abbey recalls times gone by and a way of life now just a slice of history. If ever you visit the Normandy region, make sure you stop here- and check out the lovely small hotel in town. Mont St. Michel is one of a kind.

Hero Survives

Something remarkable for today...

For all you horse lovers out there- Here's a wonderful story from the Crystal Peaks Ranch: Hero

Gems of Epcot - China

Epcot remains our favorite Disney park in Florida. It certainly isn't as spectacular or fresh as it was in the early years, but it is still quite the crowd pleaser. The simple charms of World Showcase may begin with Mexico on one side and Canada on the other. The Eiffel Tower may beckon from across the lagoon with its extremely seductive personality, beautiful buildings, and tempting treats.

However, one of the most beautiful and serene pavillions continues to be China. The 360 degree film continues to impress me, making me long for a trip to the Great Wall and other delights. The architecture is a once stunning and subtle. The people quiet and gentle, the gardens intriguing (and unfortunately, the food very average). With each visit to the park, I increasingly appreciate and understand what the Imagineers have accomplished. It is the essence of China that is captured here- in a quiet corner of the World far removed from the Disney crowds- and from the oppressive politics of a real country still discovering how best to serve its citizens.
(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Walt Disney Studios Paris: The Little Park That Could?

Maybe I called it too soon on this one.

The recent additions to Paris' Walt Disney Studios have successfully brought in the crowds. Crush's Coaster and Cars Race Rally began something good that culminated with the relatively recent opening of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The former two attractions brought much charm and a family focus to a rather dismal area of the park. The latter attraction and the surrounding area is heavy on the theming and strongly executed, something this park was poorly lacking.

From most accounts, guests seem to be spending more time here. That's a good thing. With response so positive, more elaborate plans are ready to be approved. This expansion and enhancement proves what Imagineering can do to take a bare bones park and turn it into one that feels like it belongs in the Disney family. Could even be a model for what the Imagineers hope to accomplish with the also quickly and cheaply built California Adventure. I guess I've learned an important lesson: Never underestimate the underdog!

(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company)

Taking Risks

As I sat in the emergency room waiting for the doctor to sew up my hand, my friend Mike and I had to laugh. Six stitches across my thumb due to one false move in cutting a metal stud for my basement! I always knew I wasn’t born a construction worker. I didn’t need this reminder. Yet God called had me out of my comfort zone once again to be involved in this project at a level I was unskilled in. Interestingly enough, prior to cutting the first metal stud, I stopped and prayed for God’s safety and protection. I am afraid of sharp objects and don’t do well with them. (I don’t even shave all that great!) What happened? The result of taking a risk.

The Biblical teachings on living an abundant life are having an impact on me. God has been speaking to me about risk-taking being part of living a faith-filled life. I am trying to figure out how that applies to me. Being obedient to what we know God to be telling is integrity.

The entire Bible is filled with accounts of risk takers for God. In the book of Acts, (chapter 20:7-12,) Paul is once again used dramatically. While listening to him preach a very lengthy sermon, a young man named Eutychus dozed off around midnight and fell down. Other than embarrassment, this usually wouldn’t be too much of an issue. Except Eutychus was sitting in a window on the third story. His friends pronounce him dead. Paul rushes to the ground, throws his arms around Eutychus and tells everyone present that he is alive- which is now true thanks to God, and to Paul’s obedience. In being so bold, Paul took a great risk that he heard God correctly. Certainly, Paul was a gifted speaker, but imagine how those listening even more so considered the truth of his words after this resurrection! (And like some preachers, Paul then continued talking until daylight!) Point being, Paul’s risk brought God glory. Not only were people more willing to believe, you can bet Paul’s own faith was deepened.

Not every risk brings such spectacular results. What about my hand? Hadn’t I prayed for safety? God was faithful to me. No cut tendons, no nerve damage, no loss of mobility. But no one was raised from the dead, either. The truth is that sometimes risk brings results we didn’t plan for- tough circumstances or even anger from others. (Overseas missionaries get this all the time!) What did I learn or accomplish? Haven’t a clue. But this I do know: when God leads, I would rather risk then let my fear keep me from obedience. To me, that is the biggest part of living an abundant life-obedience.

What about you? What does risk taking look like in your life? Are you listening or watching for God to challenge you in a new way? What would obedience bring?

Can you live with the chance of failure? Can you make that leap of faith? Ask God to lead you and give you the strength to jump. You can be sure the abundant life is what He has waiting for you.

Dumbing Down the Resort

In one of the more foolish moves made by Disney management for the Florida resort, the green light was given for the Pop Century Resort. The concept art shown above may look appealing, but the final result is guilty of bringing the property to an all time low. It is the kind of project that would have fit perfectly with California Adventure at its opening!

Thankfully, an additional section of the motel complex was left unfinished. If Disney were truly wise, wanting to show a bit of class and a proving a commitment to return to the glory days of old, they would bulldoze the leftovers and let the land return to its original state. This would signal an intelligent shift had taken place. It is certainly not asking too much.

Man of Fine Character

Husband, professor, son, brother, man. That's my son! What a fine young man he is. On this his 25th birthday, I want to thank him for being who he is. A thoughtful and considerate human being, a scholar, a man of faith and one of good character. What more could a Dad ask for- either heavenly or earthly? Happy birthday, and here is to many more years ahead. With love, from your Dad.

Running a Successful Race

In the last couple of years, running on the treadmill has become a regular form of exercise for me. Whether it is due to my own sense of clumsiness or desperation, I always stop and pray as I first get on it. “Lord, protect me, and help me finish the race and finish well.” I pray as I run, putting to the Lord the burdens I carry. All this running gives me plenty of time to think about my life and where I am.

Even though I can see my body changing over time, I cannot physically see how my spirit is changing and growing. But by my actions, I can gauge who I am becoming.

My words reflect what I have been taking in: the TV shows and movies I watch, the books read, the music heard. My priorities and values mirror the company I keep- another good reason to continue in fellowship- and the attitudes of my heart reflect how I’ve used my time. I am taking on the image of my influences- whether I like it or not.

If I am going to finish my race well, I need to deliberately choose who and what is molding me. This goes way beyond accountability. We’re not only talking accountability, but also receiving wise counsel, vulnerability with the Lord, and making right choices that please Him.

Who and what are molding you?

Look back at this recent season of time. Are old sin patterns slipping back in or are you finding increasing victory? That’s a good indicator of where you are spiritually and who you are becoming. Are your choices and priorities reflecting a desire to become more like your Lord Jesus or do they reflect other things in your heart? Put another way- is there anything crowding out your relationship with Jesus? Chances are, if you are too busy or too tired, something’s gotta go. If nothing changes, it is only a matter of time before the walls come crashing down.

We serve a jealous God who wants intimacy with us. He prizes his relationship with you. Keep pressing in and don’t give in. Call out for help to God. He will hear you. He wants to see you make it and finish the race well. That means finish the race looking like Jesus.

Energize Us

In my collection of Disney memorabilia, I have a special appreciation for the pieces related to EPCOT Center. Why? Never again would anything this special be attempted. At its opening in 1982, this amazing, one-of-a-kind park was at once future oriented, optimistic, and sweetly charming. EPCOT Center represented everything wonderful that could be accomplished by the Imagineers without an animated character in sight! Discovery, wonder, and exploration of realms real and yet to be found awaited each visitor.

This concept from a corporate preview booklet shows the main entrance of the Universe of Energy attraction in Future World. Long before Hollywood celebrities invaded Disney's theme park attractions, this groundbreaking pavillion combined a surprising new way to transport guests into the story and then told it through a creative use of film, music, and animatronics.

My last visit to Energy revealed this pavillion needs a bit of an overhaul. Animatronics didn't work, sets seemed stale, and the main characters are past their prime. Hopefully, it is on the list of projects to revitalize Epcot. This great attraction deserves some attention without being turned into just another thrill ride or one more animated film promotion.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Discovery Bay Resurfaces

The infamous Discovery Bay was a pet project of Imagineer extraordinaire Tony Baxter. Recalling a turn of the century San Francisco Bay era, the centerpiece was to be the magnificent Island at the Top of the World attraction. It was not to be. The movie on which the key attraction was based became a relative flop at the theaters causing Disney executives to bring the project to a halt, effectively putting an end to the ambitious Disneyland addition and boat ride.

At Disney, however, as many great stories and attractions survive are as killed, but many return in another manner. A decade and half later, Baxter revived part of the project as part of Disneyland Paris' Discoveryland. A brilliant move and a beautiful and unique addition to the European masterpiece.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)