# Rob McBryde

> A stream of consciousness on topics I love: faith, life, tech


## Posts

- [Moving from Google Workspace to Proton ](https://robmcbryde.com/moving-from-google-workspace-to-proton/): Well That Escalated Quickly My quest for data freedom quickly went from exploring open-source or privacy-focused Google alternatives to a new full-blown homelab hobby. But it doesn’t have to be that way for you. Regardless of your non-existent aspirations to be a homelabber, you can still migrate your documents, emails, calendars away from the Google ecosystem without self-hosting anything. This post recounts my process for leaving Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar and moving those services over to Proton. Proton is Fundamentally Different Proton Mail is my Gmail alternative of choice. I researched several privacy-focused solutions like Tutanota and Mailfence, but […]
- [Rob's Reading List](https://robmcbryde.com/robs-reading-list/): Books read year by year I created Rob’s Reading List to track all the books I read. I update this list every time I finish a new book or reread one (I’ve read the Beastie Boys Book three times). My goal is to finish one to two books per month. My reading or audiobook interests vary wildly and many times I will read a few books on one topic in a row and then switch to something completely different. Genres include Christianity and faith, politics, biographies, health and fitness, and science fiction. Follow along and maybe you’ll find your next […]
- [The Real Fun Begins! Self-Hosted Apps in CasaOS](https://robmcbryde.com/self-hosted-apps-in-casaos/): Installing and Configuring are Not the Same Thing Two months ago when I first installed CasaOS on the Lenovo ThinkStation, I quickly installed several apps that I was eager to test out as if they were iPhone apps that you just click install and immediately start using. There are likely exceptions, but that’s not how this works. Installing an app in CasaOS is quite simple, but that’s just part of the equation. The configuration of the installed app can be way more involved. One wrong move could overwrite a directory containing precious data that I’ve spent years accumulating. Each app […]
- [From Headless Server to Daily Driver: Upgrading my Lenovo ThinkStation & Essential Tools](https://robmcbryde.com/headless-server-to-daily-driver/): It’s been a few weeks since my last update, and I’m excited to dive back into my homelab journey with my Linux desktop running a self-hosted CasaOS server. In this latest installment of my homelab journey, I’ll recap the hardware investments made in my Lenovo ThinkStation and list the essential apps that get me up and running on my typical workflows. A month ago, I attended SCaLE 22x, the 22nd Annual Southern California Linux Expo. It was a great time to build connections with my Red Hat colleagues and other industry professionals. One connection I was particularly interested in making […]
- [Cloud-ish: Create a Multi-Device Office Suite Using Syncthing and LibreOffice](https://robmcbryde.com/syncthing-and-libreoffice/): Welcome! This is the third post in a series documenting my homelab journey (see posts 1 and 2). Note: This series is more journal entry than tutorial. Reader beware. As I mentioned in my previous post, I’ve been on a mission to set up a homelab server using CasaOS with the end goals of establishing self-hosted cloud storage and office suite tools. The plan was to dive into testing out lighter-weight Linux server distros (Ubuntu Server and Debian) that would run CasaOS smoothly. That process was sidelined by hardware issues with my ThinkStation. Thankfully, the ThinkStation is fully operational again and […]
- [Homelab Journey: Hardware Tweaks and Installing Server Software](https://robmcbryde.com/homelab-journey-hardware-tweaks-and-installing-server-software/): Welcome! This is the second post in a series documenting my homelab journey (see posts 1 and 3). Note: This series is more journal entry than tutorial. Reader beware. Saturday Morning: Hardware Upgrades and TrueNAS Scale Installation First thing Saturday morning, I jumped into my homelab project by hooking up my newly purchased Lenovo Thinkstation to the monitor with my newly purchased VGA cable (I had donated about three of those to GoodWill just three weeks ago). I wanted to make sure the computer worked as-is before I modified it. It shipped to me with Windows installed. It booted right […]
- [My Quest for Data Freedom and Reducing My Google Footprint](https://robmcbryde.com/my-quest-for-data-freedom-reducing-google-footprint/): Welcome! This is the first post in a series documenting my homelab journey (see posts 2 and 3). Note: This series is more journal entry than tutorial. Reader beware. The Dilemma of Convenience vs Data Freedom Have you ever stopped to think about the true cost of convenience? When a tech giant like Google offers us free services like Gmail, Google Calendar, and YouTube, it can be tempting to assume that we’re getting something for nothing. But the truth is our data – not only things we create using these tools but all the ways we interact with them – […]
- [My Best T-Shirt Designs So Far This Year](https://robmcbryde.com/my-best-t-shirt-designs-so-far-this-year/): This year's T-shirt designs range from Beastie Boys lyrics and karaoke favorites to empowered women and sci-fi themes, reflecting the personal interests and social advocacy of the creator. Inspired by music, rights advocacy, and literature, these diverse designs are available on various merchandise through TeePublic.
- [Meet My Friends: Three Dynamic Creatives](https://robmcbryde.com/meet-my-friends-episode-2/): Three Dynamic Creatives Welcome to the second installment of my “Meet My Friends” series, where I celebrate the vibrant creativity and fascinating careers of some truly remarkable individuals. Suppose you think of creativity as a kaleidoscope, shifting and turning to reveal brilliant new patterns. In that case, Andre Henry, Geoffrey Lessel, and Macha Suzuki are three artists whose lives and work add vibrant colors and intricate designs to the tapestry of modern expression. Each brings a unique perspective and remarkable passion to their craft, shaping their respective fields in compelling ways. Andre Henry: The Melodic Revolutionary From the heart of […]
- [Gusto: The HR Platform for People Who Aren't HR People](https://robmcbryde.com/gusto-hr-platform-for-non-hr-people/): Gusto: The HR Platform for People Who Aren’t HR People When we started our church plant in 2020, I was suddenly thrust into the role of handling payroll for a brand-new organization. With no HR person on board and zero payroll management experience, I was entering new territory. How do you run payroll for a few full-time staff and make sure state and federal taxes are paid properly? How do you pay contractors and provide them with the necessary year-end reporting for their taxes? I had so many questions. I needed a payroll solution that was straightforward and reliable, and […]
- [Top 6 Father's Day Gift Ideas](https://robmcbryde.com/top-6-fathers-day-gift-ideas/): Top 6 Father’s Day Gift Ideas Father’s Day is just around the corner, and finding the perfect gift for the dad in your life can be a challenge. I’m here to help with a curated list of things I love. Whether he’s an adventurer, a book lover, or someone who appreciates the finer comforts in life, there’s something on this list that will make him smile. From practical items he can use every day to special treats that add a touch of luxury to his routine, these top 6 Father’s Day gift ideas are sure to show him just how […]
- [Organize Big Projects Beyond Your Expertise: A Guide to Project Management Basics](https://robmcbryde.com/organize-big-projects-project-management-basics/): A Guide to Project Management Basics What do you do when faced with a significant project outside your expertise? Whether considering a home renovation, planning a large event or vacation, or starting a nonprofit initiative like a community garden, managing ambitious projects beyond one’s expertise can be daunting. Yet, with a strategic approach rooted in basic project management principles, even the most formidable tasks become manageable.  In this post, I’ll share a story about how a small group of people came together to successfully tackle the challenge of outfitting our church’s new-to-us sanctuary with sound, video, and lighting equipment, using […]
- [Exploring the Multiverse: A Review of Dennis Taylor's The Bobiverse Series](https://robmcbryde.com/review-of-dennis-taylors-the-bobiverse-series/): A Review of Dennis Taylor’s The Bobiverse Series: NO SPOILERS! Entering the world of science fiction can feel like setting off on an adventure into the unknown. As one can see from skimming my Rob’s Reading List post, I’ve not read a lot of fiction (virtually none), so diving into Dennis E. Taylor’s “The Bobiverse” series was a big leap. I’d only read one other fiction book in my adult life, Lee Child’s “Killing Floor,” and it didn’t really click with me. But then came the Bobiverse, and it changed everything. Despite my previous hesitation to spend time reading fiction, […]
- [Street Parking: 365 Programmed Workouts Logged!](https://robmcbryde.com/street-parking-365-workouts-logged/): Welcome to the Street Parking 365 Club! On March 23, 2024, I logged my 365th Street Parking workout since starting the program on August 22, 2022. I typically get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, but only the programmed workouts count towards this goal and are tracked in the SP app. Street Parking offers members a few opportunities to earn gear made especially to celebrate milestones of consistency such as the 75 Hoodie, this 365 Club Shirt, and the 1000 Banner. I’m now in the SP 365 Days Worked Out Club earning me this rad 365 Club tee. […]
- [My Dad In A Dream And That Time He Sang “Hang Down Your Head, Tom Dooley” Into A Bottle Of Ranch](https://robmcbryde.com/hang-down-your-head-tom-dooley/): A Joyful Memory Created and Captured Have you ever had such a vivid and beautiful dream that you had to write it all down the moment you woke up? In the early morning hours of January 12, 2024, I had a dream that left me shaken, tearful, and warmly encouraged. As soon as I got to my desk I scribbled all the details I could muster onto the pages of a journal gifted to me after my dad passed away. <dream> January 12, 2024 Last night I had a vivid dream that was about one scenario that went on for […]
- [Boost Productivity: 5 Essential Todoist Hacks for Better Organization](https://robmcbryde.com/boost-productivity-5-essential-todoist-hacks/): Why is Todoist the Best To-Do List App? Imagine life as a juggling act, with tasks spinning around us like plates on sticks. But here’s the thing: we don’t have to keep all those plates spinning at once. Many tasks can wait for another day, allowing us to conserve our mental energy and focus on what truly matters today. Enter Todoist. This cross-platform task management app is my go-to recommendation for friends with a lot on their plate. It helps individuals and teams organize their to-do lists, set priorities, and track progress. With advanced scheduling options, customizable projects, and collaborative […]
- [Meet My Friends: Four Extraordinary Minds](https://robmcbryde.com/meet-my-friends-episode-1/): Explore the lives of Inés Velásquez-McBryde, Maren Jo Schneider, Phil Allen, Jr., and Jacob Slaton in this series. Share your experiences and join the conversation as we celebrate impactful individuals shaping our world.
- [Choosing Your Karaoke Set List: Three Helpful Song Choice Considerations](https://robmcbryde.com/choosing-your-karaoke-set-list/): This year, I made a New Year’s resolution to create more opportunities for joy in my life, and what better way to do that than with karaoke?! Since early January, you can find me nearly every Wednesday night at The Pour House in Monrovia. This topic is so near and dear to my heart that I once gave a lightning talk at a virtual company retreat that just so happened to be my first day at that company. The video below provides 3 helpful song considerations for choosing your karaoke setlist. Let’s dive into the wisdom I shared after years […]
- [Reviving 2012 MacBook Pro with Hardware Upgrade](https://robmcbryde.com/reviving-2012-macbook-pro-hardware/): Welcome back, tech enthusiasts! Today, I’m continuing to revisit specific parts of my tech journey, sharing a follow up from a previous blog post that detailed the rejuvenation of a 2012 MacBook Pro. This time I’m zeroing in on the hardware upgrade aspect, uncovering the steps taken to transform this aging laptop into a powerful experimental machine. From the installation of a speedy solid state drive (SSD) to upgrading the RAM and even fitting in a fresh battery, this venture breathed new life into the MacBook for just $89.71. So, join me as we delve into the intricacies of upgrading […]
- [Effortless Hostinger Migration: Swiftly Transferring from HostGator!](https://robmcbryde.com/hostinger-migration-guide/): Last week, I revealed my enduring 12-year partnership with HostGator web hosting, only to encounter unexpected downtime on my websites. Frustrated, I decided it was time for a change. After researching leading WordPress hosting companies, my choice fell to Hostinger. In the time it took to watch two episodes of This Is Us on a Friday night, I smoothly migrated five WordPress websites from HostGator to Hostinger. In a mood for change, I also initiated the transfer of those five domains from GoDaddy to Hostinger. It was so easy the process left me wondering why I’d waited so long to […]
- [Budget-Friendly Essentials for Your Street Parking Garage Gym](https://robmcbryde.com/budget-friendly-garage-gym/): In August 2022, I embarked on a new fitness journey with Street Parking, an online program that redefined my approach to exercise. Born from the founders’ garage gym, Street Parking emphasizes daily workouts, most of which can be completed with a pair of dumbbells. As I approach my 365th programmed workout, earning the prestigious Street Parking 365 milestone (and a free t-shirt), I’ve realized that specific equipment plays a crucial role in enhancing the Street Parking experience. In this blog post, we’ll delve into two categories of equipment for your garage gym – the essential and the optional. Essential Equipment: […]
- [How to Read More: Combine Kindle and Audible](https://robmcbryde.com/how-to-read-more-kindle-audible/): Life’s fast pace often makes finding time for the simple pleasure of reading a challenge. For years, audiobooks were my go-to. Their convenience, allowing me to enjoy captivating stories while going on walks or driving my car, was unbeatable. However, a recent shift in my reading habits came with the introduction of a Kindle into my literary routine. In this blog post, I’ll share my journey from an exclusive audiobook consumer to a multifaceted reader, exploring the unique advantages that adding a Kindle to the mix brings. By reading on a Kindle and listening to audiobooks using Audible or Libby, […]
- [Introducing Rob Makes Stuff](https://robmcbryde.com/rob-makes-stuff/): Custom Clothing and Accessories Hey friends, I’m stoked to introduce to you Rob Makes Stuff – my creative outlet to put my ideas on shirts and sweatshirts, backpacks, socks, journals, notebooks, coffee mugs, cell phone cases, and even wall clocks!   A Little Something for Everyone What makes these pieces special? They’re not just random designs – they’re things I find funny like Work From Home phrases like “You’re on mute” or things that hold meaning to me, like old Beastie Boys lyrics or the phrase Screw Misery Demand Joy. Each design has its own story, and I’m excited for you […]
- [Elevate Your Hoodie Game: A Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Drawstrings with Colorful Paracord](https://robmcbryde.com/hoodie-drawstring-replacement-colorful-paracord/): Friends don’t let friends have boring drawstrings Recently, a friend shared an awesome trick with me that instantly upgraded my hoodie game – replacing boring drawstrings with vibrant paracord! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll share the process I learned to give your hoodie a unique touch while injecting a burst of color. Paracord comes in many different multi-color patterns or solids, and many include reflective materials (safety first!). I found the perfect paracord on Amazon that made this DIY project a breeze! So, let’s dive in and personalize your hoodie together. Step 1: Gather Your Materials Before we begin, make […]
- [Lessons learned from a failed Fedora upgrade](https://robmcbryde.com/lessons-learned-from-failed-fedora-upgrade/): Previously on “Rob revives MacBook with Linux and new hardware” In my last blog post, I shared my experience reviving my old 2012 MacBook Pro. That mini passion project started with installing the Linux operating system called Pop!_OS and then doing some hardware upgrades that breathed new life into the 11-year-old laptop. After installing a new 512 GB solid-state drive, 16 GB of RAM, and a new battery, I chose to install the Linux distro called Fedora since I had been dabbling with Pop!_OS for about three weeks, and the whole point of messing around with this particular laptop is […]
- [Reviving a 2012 MacBook Pro with Linux](https://robmcbryde.com/reviving-a-2012-macbook-pro-with-linux/): A late bloomer when it comes to computers I did not grow up using computers but distinctly remember in the mid-80s that my friend across the street had an older brother who had a computer. I had no idea what he did with it. It was totally beyond my comprehension. In college, I had a 486 computer that was used mostly for playing Castle Wolfenstein and writing mediocre papers for class. A few cheap desktop computers later, I finally purchased my first laptop computer in 2004. The Toshiba Satellite laptop was the cheapest one you could buy at Best Buy, […]
- [SCaLE20x Linux Conference](https://robmcbryde.com/scale20x-linux-conference/): Overview Last week I attended a conference called SCaLE 20x – the 20th Annual Southern California Linux Expo. SCaLE is the largest community-run open-source and free software conference in North America. It is held annually in the greater Los Angeles area, and this year’s event was in Pasadena which is conveniently 15 minutes from where I live.  This was my first in-person conference since 2019 and my first Linux industry conference since joining Red Hat in February 2022. In the past, I’ve attended many Drupal conferences and camps going back to DrupalCon Denver 2012. It was comforting to see a […]
- [5 Essential Apps for Online Privacy and Productivity](https://robmcbryde.com/5-essential-apps-for-online-privacy-and-productivity/): Todoist – Task manager Todoist is the app I recommend most often to friends when I see they have lots of plates spinning. This cross-platform task management app helps individuals and teams organize their to-do lists, set priorities, and track progress. It includes advanced scheduling options, customizable projects, and collaborative features. Basically, it helps you set several plates down so you just pick up the one when it reminds you to. This may sound strange since there are tons of to-do list apps, but I simply can’t live without Todoist. I have recurring tasks for personal categories like health, groceries, […]
- [Two days on the mountains](https://robmcbryde.com/two-days-on-the-mountains/): As someone who absolutely loves the mountains, skiing is one of my favorite outdoor activities. My first time skiing was 32 years ago when I was in 11th grade on a Young Life ski trip. Since then I’ve been several times, and even though there have been large gaps of years with no ski trips, I still can get down the mountain largely unscathed. Well, with the exception of that time in Utah in 2001. My knee still reminds me of that trip every once in a while. Ouch. June Mountain and Mammoth Mountain My son and I got to […]
- [Increasing online security with 2-factor authentication](https://robmcbryde.com/increasing-online-security-with-2fa/): How good are your password security practices? Are you using weak passwords like password123? Good online security practices are crucial to prevent identity theft, fraud, and other cybercrime. If your password is weak, easy to guess, or has been compromised, it can be used by hackers or cybercriminals to gain access to your online accounts. Once they have access, they may be able to steal personal information, and financial data, or even take over the account entirely. By practicing good online security, such as using strong, unique passwords for each account (see the Bitwarden section of this post), changing passwords […]
- [What the heck is Street Parking?](https://robmcbryde.com/street-parking/): In August of 2022, I decided to kick up my exercise routine several notches. I had been super consistent since the beginning of the pandemic with going for long walks many times per week, but I was still feeling super out of shape. Simple tasks like tying my shoes were a daily risk of a pulled back muscle. I joined Street Parking (streetparking.com) on August 22. This online program offers daily workouts, and most of them can be completed with a pair of dumbbells. The founders named it Street Parking because they transformed their garage into a gym and started […]
- [Tooting on Mastodon: Exploring a New Social Frontier](https://robmcbryde.com/tooting-on-mastodon/): Twitter’s downward spiral I’ve been on Twitter since December 18, 2008. Those early days were pretty cool. Twitter provided a new way to connect with people, and I legitimately have friends in real life to this day that I initially met on Twitter. But things are getting more and more troubling on the bird app, so I’m preparing a contingency plan – establishing a new presence on a relatively new social media platform called Mastodon. It’s sort of underwhelming right now on Mastodon which is a surprisingly relaxing change of pace. Finding people I know to follow is a chore. […]
- [Remembering Bob "Cotton" McBryde](https://robmcbryde.com/remembering-bob-cotton-mcbryde/): My father Bob “Cotton” McBryde passed away in July 2022. This post includes the video of his funeral as well as the eulogy that my sister Stacey and I shared during the service. Stacey Intro Hi. I’m Stacey McBryde Valley, and this is my brother, Rob McBryde. We’d like to begin by thanking you all for being here today as we celebrate the life of our dad, Robert Cotton McBryde, or Bobby Carroll as he was known growing up. Barbara (our mom), Rob, and I are grateful for the cards, messages, food, and flowers many have sent. And for the […]
- [17 Days of Slowing Down](https://robmcbryde.com/17-days-of-slowing-down/): I don’t often feel like I have something worthwhile to blog about hence the only updated post on this site being Rob’s Reading List. But recently I was afforded an opportunity, two related opportunities really, that I wanted to remember well. This post is a stone of remembrance so that I can recall and re-experience the blessings of the last 17 days.
- [Redesigning SalterMcNeil.com](https://robmcbryde.com/redesigning-saltermcneil-website/): Occasionally, one’s personal life and professional life intersect in the most meaningful ways. My heart for racial reconciliation and interest in website development started around the same time in 2003 when I started working for a multiethnic church plant in Little Rock, AR. I served there for nearly five years as the young adult pastor, and that is also where I taught myself how to build websites, eventually starting a side business that became my vocation.
- [The Church We Hope For](https://robmcbryde.com/the-church-we-hope-for/): The Church We Hope For website has been a work in progress since the summer of 2019 because our plans to plant a church in Southern California continue to be a work in progress. I remember looking through some video archives that I hadn’t seen in a long time and came across this gem from October 2010 (nearly ten years ago!). Bobby was the student pastor at our church in Arkansas. At that time Inés was serving as a volunteer leader in the women’s ministry and had gotten close to Bobby’s wife Amy. This video represents the “receipts” if you […]
- [Devil's Canyon Dam Truck Trail](https://robmcbryde.com/devils-canyon/): The first ride listed on 8 Amazing Bike Rides in Los Angeles is Cogswell Dam (aka the Devil’s Canyon Dam Truck Trail). The article describes the ride: The road itself parallels a small but always audible creek, fed by the upriver dam. Often shaded by trees and mountains, the road offers riders a cool, relaxed ride. No cell service here. It’s just you, your bike, a bubbling brook and the San Gabriel Mountains. Picnic tables are plentiful along the road, so you can stop and nosh or take it all in. Remember that you’re in the Angeles National Forest, and […]
- [My Intro to Minecraft](https://robmcbryde.com/my-intro-to-minecraft/): My son started playing Minecraft a couple of years ago, and because he didn’t fully get what he was supposed to do I totally didn’t get it. Thankfully, he moved on to FIFA Mobile and Pokemon so it was no big deal. Lately, he’s been getting R E A L L Y into Minecraft again, but this time he knows what he’s supposed to do. It’s been going on for weeks now so finally tonight I logged in as my own player, and we built a house together. Well…he built a house, and I tried not to accidentally destroy his […]
- [Stones of Remembrance](https://robmcbryde.com/stones-of-remembrance/): In the spirit of Joshua 4, I’ve gathered several encouraging messages that Inés has received over the last several days since graduating with her Master of Divinity degree from Fuller on Saturday, June 15, 2019. May we never forget all the Lord has done for us and how far he has brought us. As we sang at the Centro Latino graduation ceremony, “All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.” Selah
- [Women in Ministry: Grace-filled words via Instagram](https://robmcbryde.com/women-in-ministry-grace-filled-words-via-instagram/): Yesterday, out of the blue, I received an encouraging Instagram message from a good friend in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He and I have known each other for over a decade and I consider him a brother in the faith. We have never previously talked about the topic of women in ministry. His words were a timely reminder that God has ordered our steps, and we are being faithful to the calling He has given us…one in which my wife is and will be a pastor. He gave me permission to post this. I wanted to briefly share a positive […]
- [Inés Velásquez-McBryde](https://robmcbryde.com/inesmcbryde-website/): I love it when my professional experience intersects with my personal life and when I get to do cool stuff like giving inesmcbryde.com a makeover. Adapting Inés’ site from an old-school Blogspot blog to a more polished speaker website using the Astra WordPress theme was a fun challenge. Redesigning Inesmcbryde.com Home page   Blog landing page
- [Jelly Belly Bean Boozled Challenge](https://robmcbryde.com/jelly-belly-bean-boozled-challenge/): Jelly Belly Bean Boozled Challenge After a weekend away from my son, we decided to do something out of the ordinary this evening. If you are looking for a funny and gross way to hang with your kids check out Jelly Belly’s Bean Boozled Challenge. Warning: This is a tad gross. Watch on YouTube
- [Leading Change](https://robmcbryde.com/leading-change/): Churches, Cultures, and Leadership Sometimes your wife’s seminary education is contagious and you decide to order your own copy of one of her textbooks. Two months ago I started reading Churches, Cultures and Leadership: A Practical Theology of Congregations and Ethnicities (by Dr. Mark Branson and Dr. Juan F. Martinez) to sharpen my leadership chops in the realm of racial and cultural reconciliation. With one chapter to go, I’m pretty sure I never read a seminary textbook more thoroughly, even when I was a student at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 1999-2000. From the explanations of the praxis cycle (an approach to practical theology described […]
- [Women in Ministry](https://robmcbryde.com/women-in-ministry/): Growing up in the Bible belt of Arkansas, it was instilled in me to believe that any church that had a “woman preacher” was synonymous with basically that church not believing the Bible. That was not always explicitly taught but could be inferred from the way some speak about the issue. For most of my life, it was a non-issue because it didn’t impact me personally. When I went to seminary at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 1999 (before I’d ever met Inés) I was introduced to new theological positions that supported the full inclusion of women in Kingdom work. […]
- [Azusa Canyon Off-road Park](https://robmcbryde.com/azusa-canyon-off-road-park/): Last Saturday I met up with some Subaru enthusiasts who do regular outings to off-road in their Subies. Though I’ve been off-roading before in Arkansas, those occasions were never solely for the purpose of that. So this was a new experience. I got to meet some nice people with a common love of the outdoors and Subarus. 
- [Reconciled Through Christ (to God AND one another)](https://robmcbryde.com/reconciled-through-christ/): I want to share the powerful message given last week at our church (Fellowship Monrovia). Pastor Michael Field breaks it down plainly how God through Christ has broken down dividing walls, walls that divide us individually to God and also to one another. The work on the cross (made of two beams) was not just vertical (to God), but also horizontal (that we can be perfected in unity with others). Christ has reconciled us to Him and to one another, but we live in the “already and not yet” reality of God’s Kingdom on earth. So our act of worship […]
- [Raised to New Life!](https://robmcbryde.com/nash-baptism/): Our boy made a public profession of his faith in Jesus on June 25, 2017, at Fellowship North . . . or as he calls it “getting babatized.” He recently described God to us using a Pokemon analogy. “God is like all the energies of Pokemon put together except darkness.” That’ll preach, son. That’ll preach. Watch and listen to how he describes his journey (in his own words with no prompting or coaching from me or Ines).
- [Life giving rhythms of grace](https://robmcbryde.com/life-giving-rhythms-of-grace/): As we approach six full months in Pasadena, life has settled down a lot. The move back in August was intense. Nash starting school in a new city was intense. Ines starting seminary…intense. So much newness. So much intensity. Things have in many ways leveled out for us. Nash and Ines have their school routines. I have my same job (which I love). We’ve started developing new friendships in our apartment complex and at church. We know how to get from point A to point B (and avoid parking tickets – got 3 in the first 3 weeks here). So […]
- [October and November full of surprises!](https://robmcbryde.com/oct-nov-update/):   A lot of cool things happened since the last post.  
- [Five weeks in a blink](https://robmcbryde.com/5-week-update/): (above: “Raise your hands if your having fun!” The kids take in the view from the Chantry Flats Heliport in the Angeles National Forest – San Gabriel Mountains.) We’ve officially been in Pasadena for five full weeks. Time apparently moves faster in California because there is no way we’ve already been here that long. A blink. That’s what it feels like.
- [He learned THREE kids' names!](https://robmcbryde.com/1st-grade-community-building/): Yesterday afternoon was a delightfully lazy one. Nash and I watched Avengers: Age of Ultron and built one of his LEGO sets that he got for his birthday. As I was snapping the little plastic pieces into place one by one I had a little epiphany. Have you ever built a large LEGO set? While following the instructions, there are times when I would think “How in the world will this thing stay together? This is going to fall apart in no time.” Then I placed one small brick next to another, and it came to me. Even before placing […]
- [The eleventh hour of our departure](https://robmcbryde.com/eleventh-hour-departure/): Just a few months ago I was focused on selling furniture and whatnot on Craigslist and Facebook. Man, time has flown by! With our departure date getting closer and closer, each week flies by faster than the last. We’re about to spend the last night in our home of the last 6.5 years. Tomorrow the moving trailer arrives and all the stuff we’ve been feverishly packing the last couple of weeks will be loaded up and travel ahead of us to Pasadena, CA. I’m glad this packing phase of our journey is coming to an end.
- [Moving day is coming!](https://robmcbryde.com/moving-day-is-coming/): It’s been nearly two months since the last update. The reason for such few posts is that we continue to wait on many things. We wait to hear about financial support from our church. We anticipate approval on that any day now. At that time, two things will happen: We’ll be approved to direct friends and family who wish to support us financially to donate to the church’s seminary scholarship fund. You’ll be able to do this by using the online giving tool on the church’s website or by writing a check to the church. Once we’re approved, we’ll share […]
- [A next step revealed - an apartment!](https://robmcbryde.com/a-next-step-revealed-an-apartment/): No surprise really, but just the thought of all that has to happen to move across country is a daunting one. On Sunday I was starting to feel the weight of all the unknowns (maybe for the first time) especially as it relates to where we will live and what to do with our home in Arkansas. On Monday, I called the housing office at Fuller to move up our “first available” date to June 1st to increase the chances of securing an on campus apartment. We originally told them August 1st thinking we’d be willing to pay one month’s […]
- [Longboarding - a new hobby at age 41](https://robmcbryde.com/starting-new-hobbies-age-41/): After the Woolly Hollow camping trip which was filled with hours of my son riding Jacob’s longboard skateboard, I decided to buy him one. And right after his board came in the mail, a friend gave us another one so now both of us have one! Yup! I’m 41 years old and just started skateboarding again.
- [Trusting God's Timing](https://robmcbryde.com/trusting-gods-timing/): The most common question Inés and I get is “So when are you moving?” which is one we ask ourselves daily as well. If only we knew several more pieces of info, we could answer that question. Our best guess at this time is August or September at the latest. School starts in late September so I imagine the latest we would move would be Labor Day weekend. The two most critical things about which we are waiting to hear from Fuller are: the merit-based scholarship and on-campus housing openings. The tuition alone for three years of seminary is approximately […]
- [Caution: Change is coming!](https://robmcbryde.com/change-coming/): Hey friends, This week my family received some incredible life-changing news. Since my wife already sent this to her WOO sisters, I’ll borrow her words for a moment: I have applied to graduate school and been formally accepted to the Masters of Divinity program at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. By faith, I will attend classes there on campus this Fall 2016 quarter. Yes, this would include leaving our church, our home, our families, my job here which I love, to pursue a 3-year degree in theology. This is a dream that I have had for over 15 years […]
- [Organize Your Finances with a Bill Pay Checklist](https://robmcbryde.com/bill-pay-checklist/): Since 2007 I’ve used a Google Spreadsheet called McBryde Bill Pay Checklist to keep track of our recurring bills and help manage our finances. This simple yet effective tool has been my go-to for managing recurring bills and maintaining financial discipline. How to use the Bill Pay Checklist  Download and Set Up: Download the Excel file: Bill Pay Checklist 2016. For Google Drive users, upload the file to your Drive and convert it into a Google Spreadsheet for easy access from multiple devices. Add Recurring Expenses: Input all recurring expenses, organized by due date. Optionally, enhance visibility by color-coding expenses […]
- [Advent devotional: Love](https://robmcbryde.com/advent-love/): Ever since my son Nash was born I’ve learned a lot about love…especially a Father’s love. For those of you who don’t know my son, he the 6 year old boy that fills up my Instagram feed. I’m seriously obsessed with him. I love Nash like nothing or no one I’ve ever loved before. I think my love for him is unique or set apart because I made him. He’s mine. Ok. So Ines may have had something to do with that, too, but you get my point. Ever since he was born, I’ve always wondered, “Is this what God feels when He […]
- [How to Build a Removable Cargo Shelf for Your Chevy Trailblazer EXT on a Budget ($14 DIY Guide)](https://robmcbryde.com/chevy-trailblazer-cargo-shelf/): Explore the world of affordable adventure with our step-by-step guide on creating a DIY cargo shelf for your Chevy Trailblazer EXT. Enhance organization, conquer cargo chaos, and elevate your car camping experience—all on a budget of just $14. Discover the evolution of this practical solution, with continuous updates for optimal user-friendly design. Upgrade your Trailblazer journey with our cost-effective tips and tricks. #DIYAdventure #TrailblazerUpgrade 🚙💼
- [Birthday Karaoke at Khahlil's Pub](https://robmcbryde.com/birthday-karaoke/): A group of friends celebrated my birthday last week by going to karaoke at Khalil’s Pub. It was a blast. Michael Hall and I are available for birthday parties and weddings. Karaoke is life Check out this post on 3 tips to help you choose your karaoke set list.
- [Surprise marriage proposal dinner caught on camera!](https://robmcbryde.com/surprise-marriage-proposal-dinner/): On September 1, 2004, some friends of mine helped me pull off a very special evening with the love of my life Inés Velásquez-McBryde. Before I popped the question, I had Inés open a gift which was two emails between her dad and me that I had framed. In the email to her dad who lived in South Carolina at that time, I asked for his permission to marry his daughter. This email exchange is hanging in our living room today. This video was a 1st-anniversary gift from our friend Gordon, so it also has some wedding photos at the end.
- [30 Days of Thanks](https://robmcbryde.com/30daysofthanks/): Day 1: I’m thankful for my truly amazing wife @INESmcbryde. Day 2: I’m thankful for my rockstar of a son (aka #Champ). ow.ly/eYxpA Day 3: I’m thankful for peace that surpasses understanding. Day 4: I’m thankful for the annual McBryde family reunion happening today. Not only because of the great food, but the great love. Day 5: I’m thankful for relatively good health that has significantly improved over the last 10 months. Day 6: I’m thankful for my friendships @AristotleBuzz and @AristotleSelect. My coworkers rock. Day 7: I’m thankful for my #KingdomMan small group on Wednesday mornings…even though it is at 6am. […]
- [App Recommendation: CamScanner](https://robmcbryde.com/app-recommendation-camscanner/):   I recently had need of a quick scanning app so I could send my brother-in-law his college notes. He had left his notebook home over the weekend, and needed his notes in it to study for a test. My father-in-law asked me to scan them with our flatbed scanner, but a geekier method was top of mind. Why boot up the dusty ol’ desktop when I have a zippy Android phone right here? CamScanner to the rescue!
- [Fitness Plateaus: My Journey](https://robmcbryde.com/fitness-plateaus/): This post has been in the making for over 12 months. Health-wise…my 36th and half of my 37th year of life sucked. Here’s what I wrote on February 14 of this year when I finally decided to turn this ship around. At age 37 this is the worst shape I’ve ever been in and nearly the heaviest I’ve ever weighed. (a year or two ago I weighed 199-203 for a while.) Seven months ago I had had enough. I was sick and tired of being literally sick and tired. So I attempted to change. Evernote 30 Day Fitness Challenge: Results & […]

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- [Subscribe](https://robmcbryde.com/subscribe/): Content on Life, Faith, and Tech Thanks for considering subscribing to my email list! I write about a diverse range of topics, including things I’m pondering about faith, life in general, my love of the outdoors, and cool or helpful technology that I’m nerding out on. My goal is to provide you with thought-provoking content that informs, inspires, and enriches your life. By subscribing, you’ll receive an email notification as soon as new content is published. In 2024, my goal is to post around once per week so I won’t load up your inbox with notifications. Alternatively, you can add […]
- [About Rob McBryde](https://robmcbryde.com/about-rob-mcbryde/): Native Arkansan Living in California Welcome! My name is Rob McBryde. Born and raised in Arkansas, I have lived in states all across the country from Colorado, Georgia, and Illinois to California, and currently live in the Los Angeles area with my wife and son. We are about five years into planting a diverse church called The Church We Hope For where my wife Inés is the lead pastor. We are the parents of one amazing son who loves soccer, skateboarding, and almost all the same music I do. Faith and Leadership From my roots as a follower of Jesus […]


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