J A V A S L I N G E R

Structure

2011-01-05T16:23:00.000-08:00

Following the spirit of yesterday's post, I would like to recommend some programs and philosophies that have helped me in my more common resolutions, health, fitness and finances.
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Dave Ramsey - Financial Guru/Radio Host - www.daveramsey.com
"Debt is dumb, cash is king, and the paid paid off home mortgage has replaced the BMW as the status symbol of choice."

Before you judge him by his accent let me assure you that Dave is smarter than you when it comes to money. When it comes to debt, he takes no prisoners and accepts no compromise. He proudly defies the 'stupid-tax' and has never had a kind thing to say about Murphy and his three cousins, Broke, Desperate and Stupid. He has an odd fascination with gazelles.

Dave preaches the shocking principle of spending less than you make and investing the rest. He mocks the idea that you need a credit card and tells it like it is about responsibility and self dependence. But what makes Dave authentic is not his Tennessee speech impediment but that he's made the journey from broke riches, twice. The first time he did the "conventional" way, financing and leveraging well beyond the point of creative and ended up bankrupt. Out of those ashes he developed a plan change his thinking about money and how he would never again be in debt. He is again a millionaire, selling his plan and other tools that have assisted millions of people to get out of their own usury hell.

Make no mistake, he does not give you a magic bullet. It is hard work, a lot of sacrifice, but you will not be about to drown the light from the bulb that pops in your head when you read his material. You will have to live like no one else so one day (and sooner rather than later) you can live like no one else.

WeightWatchers - www.weightwatchers.com
As I said yesterday, to make a change you need to change your lifestyle. If your overweight and out of shape, chances are really good you never learned how to properly eat or exercise.

WeightWatchers is not a diet. It's a detailed system focused on one thing—to re-teach you how to eat. Healthy eating comes down to two thing: what you eat and how much of what you eat. There is NOTHING restricted in a WeightWatchers plan because teaches you how to create a balance between the so-called bad foods and the normally accepted healthy foods. You're not going the rest of your life without ice cream (otherwise what would be the point?), nor should you. Remember to keep that pendulum as close to the center as possible. Have a little ice cream before you snap and "Gotta Have It!" at Cold Stone Creamery.

It also helps you establish realistic goals. It would be nice unstrap your belly like a clown in fat pants, but just like it took you time to gain your currently ample outline, it's going to take time for you to let the air out. The slower you lose it and take the time to re-think your eating habits the less likely you will gain it back.
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Sometimes all we need is a little structure to meet our goals; a timeline or proven plan that we can rely on when things get bleak. Keep your head up when it's nice, head down when it's black outside. Victory will come with time and perseverance. Fatty.

Resolutions

2011-01-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's that time of year again—specifically, the beginning. I suppose it is healthy to look back over the previous year and assess what was actually checked off and then to look forward and set some new goals.

As an average round white man I would bet that my list is not much different than any other person's. Appearance, money, making a mark and spirituality are probably the most common ingredients a person's life, so it would make sense that if we find ourselves lacking in any of these areas we would like to improve them.

Resolutions fail for multiple reasons, but the overarching reason would be that most people treat the symptoms of a lifestyle rather than address the lifestyle choices that brought them their current dissatisfaction. The cause of this is more than likely not knowing how to change or even worse, not being aware that a change is needed. For instance, it would appear that some people are under the impression that they are overweight due to a shortage of weight-loss medication rather than over eating or lack of exercise.

If you know what needs changing, the next step is to make a plan. Just because it's the new year doesn't mean you have to start on the first. Do some research, gain some knowledge. Write it down. If you're a numbers person, make a chart. Whatever you do, find some structure that you can be accountable to as well as fall back on in a moment of weakness.

Make sure your plan is also realistic. Remember, we trying to change a lifestyle, not just cover a symptom, so is it realistic that bread not be a part of your diet? Are you never going to dine out anymore? A good rule of thumb is to keep the pendulum as close to the center while still achieving measurable progress. If you swing one way to drastically the momentum will carry in the opposite direction when you inevitably are unable to stick to your unrealistic plan.

Finally, create a support structure. Accountability is key to any successful venture, and it's important to surround ourselves with people we trust and won't be afraid to call us out.

In my almost thirty-one years I've learned that my goals are more attainable when I have a plan—more importantly a realistic plan. And not to mention a heavy dose of commitment. No matter the goal you should start asking yourself some questions, first and foremost "how did I get here." Like a breadcrumb trail it's the best way to finding your way out of the woods.

Dr. Laura and the Half-Thought Point

2010-08-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

If there are two lessons that we can learn from Dr. Laura's recent utterance of the n-word they are these; a) you can never be too old to make poor choices (in which case I have a long and perilous life ahead of me) and b) if your going to try and get away with using offensive phrases on the public airways it's best not to repeatedly express them in tourette syndrome format. However, let us not lose the point the good doctor was trying to make.

Upon learning of Dr. Laura's verbal faux pas I did what every good American does these days—I googled her and read what someone else had to say about the matter. What I found was enlightening. According to Jam Donaldson, white people can't use the n-word and black people can...because. Well when you put it like that, it all becomes clear.

Jam poses this thoughtful question: "Why are white folks so intent on rationalizing their use of the word? You can't use it, period. Get over it." Well Jam, here's the thing—we like to use words with two "g's" in them as they are so much fun to say. Nugget, eggo and jiggle (I have to admit that I had to google those last two) all bring us elation we cannot express. And also, like any power-crazed race we want most. What. We. Cannot. Have!

I was intrigued by the term "rationalizing"—as if the n-word is floating on the back of our tongues threatening to choke us unless we (and when I say we, I am still talking about us 'white folk') spew it forth, but nay! We must have a REASON!

All parody aside, I have no desire to use the word nor have I ever looked for a legitimate reason or validation to speak the word, let alone a seek out a permit from the black community to do so. I very much doubt Dr. Laura was trying to rationalize using it either. Dr. Laura was trying to find logic, not rationalization from a community that lashes out at anyone who speaks the word yet uses it among themselves with impunity. Understand that we don't want to join in; we want to know why some in the black community continue to do so.

Jam ends her post with this: "It's about respecting a culture's right to its own intracultural norms. If your use of the word offends me, that's really all you need to know. We don't have to explain why you can't say it, we don't have to defend our use of it and we don't have to tolerate you saying it. You just can't. It's like family. You can talk about each other, but no one else can. And as long as everyone remembers that, we should get along just fine."

Apparently Jam is the Queen and we musn't ask questions. Saying "that's just the way things are" isn't a legitimate explanation. If I recall my WASP history teachings correctly it was the same reason given for why whites mistreated blacks before the civil rights movement. It wasn't right then, it's not right now.

A word is a word—whether it's black man capping it with an 'a' or a honky sounding out the 'r', it's the same thing. And as to the family analogy, it completely falls apart. If I called my mother 'cracker' it wouldn't hurt any less because it was coming from her son.

Without Complaining

2010-08-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have been reading Philippians at work during my breaks over the last few days and I came across a scripture in my text that plucked a heart string: "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world[.]" - Phil 2:14,15.

I sometimes get caught up in little selfish nothings, dwelling on them until I worsen an already foul mood. This morning was such a time.

Without getting into details, the morning started of with a verbal altercation with my supervisor at work. Even knowing at the time that my reaction was infantile, I continued down the path of brooding and self-pity, knowing that I was not being a great example of a Christian man—a 30 year old Christian man at that. I was doing what I was told in body, but I was rebelling in my heart.

This was just one example of related behaviors that the Lord has been dealing with me on. I have this stubborn streak in me that can be excused with all sorts of reasons, but they all fall short of Paul's exhortation (and Jesus' too) that I just keep my mouth shut and do as I'm asked, not with a frown but with joy.

What also must be mentioned is that it is more important to realize these behaviors in your heart. If I only do what I'm asked without complaint or dispute in action, I still have the tension and unrest in my soul which only further feeds unneeded negativity. With this formula a bad day is inevitable. I have noted that when I just do as I'm told in body AND heart, things go much smoother. The more I practice this, the more I realize that this rebellion was a major source of stress in my life. When I do what I am told without complaint, I realize rebellion is a burden I choose to carry, not one that is placed upon me.

We cannot be lights to the world if we are harboring our own darkness. We will be found with fault and not as children of God.

And the wedding...

2009-11-24T10:44:00.000-08:00

keeps rolling on. Hopefully, invitations will be sent out today. If you didn't get one, it probably wasn't an oversight.

So, I realize I will not have any spare time until March. "But wait.." you say, "you're getting married in January!" That I am. But we are also having a reception at the end of February in my hometown of Medford (if you didn't get an invitation, it probably wasn't an oversight). My mom wants me to edit and put together the wedding video in six weeks to show at said reception. Actually, there will be no work the week following the wedding, so I have 5 weeks to get it done. Plenty of time, if I wasn't a perfectionist.

Honestly, I'm not complaining. Given the choice between nothing to do and too much to do, I'd take too much. I can't do nothing. Well, for short periods of weeks I might manage, but eventually I get bored and must find stuff to once again overwhelm me. Maybe that's why I started dating...kidding. Totally kidding. Seriously, totally kidding.

And so, the wedding keeps rolling on...

I have found...

2009-11-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

out that several of my friends are blogging, those who have never blogged before. I guess it's time for me to jump back into the fray.

I see that I haven't blogged for over six months which, sadly, is not even close to record breaking for this blog. I believe that honor is held high at one year...or so.

So, what have I beening doing these past six months? Lots I tell you, lots. At the end of September I proposed to my spectacularly-wonderful-beautiful girlfriend, and she said yes (for further details, click here)! So, if you've ever planned a wedding, you know what I've been doing since then. Wedding planning is a bit of a time-sucking vortex. But in a fun way!

Well, that's all I got for now. Well, truthfully, that is all I want for now. I might be back, I might not. We'll see how long my inspiration lasts...

Crap-taculcar.

2009-05-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday sucked.

I hate my job right now. I used to view it as a nuisance, just biding my time in familiar territory until I find my next great gig. Now, I loathe going to work. This change has come about due to my District Manager deciding that we should take our espresso machine out of the drive-thru and plant it next to the in-house machine, leaving all drive-thru and in-house drinks to be made by two baristas who have no idea how to work in tandem with another barista. Previously, it was all solo. And, we have take our handy computer out of the efficiency equation. Without getting into details, this totally jacks-up our system, and instead of making it better (which I think MIGHT have been the goal), it has made it infinitely worse.

So anyway, my day started at the bastion of hopelessness, and descended from there. I went home to find that my external hard-drive (with all my music and video clips from my cousins wedding that took hours to capture) was going bad. Luckily, I recovered everything I needed. It's working for now, but I don't know for how much longer.

Then, I found out I didn't get an internship I had applied for and had kinda laid a lot of hope on. Then...

It just sucked.

I called it a day after I tried to do laundry and the washer started leaking water out the bottom of it. I'm just glad those days only come once and awhile. Thank you Lord.

Back in laces.

2009-05-12T18:00:00.001-07:00

Nothing feels like a new pair of shoes, especially after your old ones have been flattened out my immense downward pressure.

I got two new pair of shoes today both with laces. My old pair of shoes were a pair of leather Skechers, which I love(d). They were slip-ons and I loved the ease of just slipping them onto my foot like a well-fitted glove. I love the fact even more that I didn't have to navigate my belly.

Now I have to lace up, and try not to look like a fat guy. You can always tell the fat guys too—as if their bellies and quick short breaths didn't give them away first. They laces are always tied toward the inner part of their shoes, as they had to prop up their leg on their need to avoid the suffocation of bending over their wobbling mass. It's like diving—take a deep breath and go for it.

Funny thing is, I joined a gym a few weeks ago and haven't lost any weight. Maybe I should start going?

Yeah, I said it.

2009-05-05T10:07:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday, I was doing the work that even Mexicans' wouldn't do.

Seriously, they were on the job site, but they were ordering me around—which is fine, as I know as much about construction as they know about neo-classic art.

Making coffee makes you soft. I like to be reminded what a full days work of solid labor feels like. When you leave, your muscles ache with a satisfaction that you actually DID something, and not just pulled shots and steamed milk for yuppies and cranky old ladies.

That is until you get up the next morning.

And your point is...?

2009-05-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo.

We celebrate this day to commemorate Mexico beating France. Well, hold the cheese and wine. That's like the Steelers bragging they beat the crap out of a pee-wee football team.

Course, we all know its just an unofficial holiday created by Chevy's.

I hate this state.

2009-04-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

So, I'm new to this whole "California" thing. I love the scenery. I love being here and living next door to Anna. I love the church family here.

I hate the state.

I thought Oregon was bad, but it looks like a suckling puppy next to morbidly bloated pit bull that will stop at nothing to get your money. I am learning quickly the dis-advantages to living here.

Exhibit A:
— In Oregon, it takes $64 to register a vehicle ($54 registration fee, $10 to smog) for two years.
— In California, it takes a percentage of the value of the vehicle (in my case this year, $282) and anywhere from $48 to $70 to smog your car—for one year.

For one year. Actually, less than that, as I was honest about the date that I actually moved here. I didn't register the car until almost two months later, so they made up for that by shorting me two months on my registration.

I want to know why this state is broke.

Revisited...

2009-04-22T23:51:00.001-07:00

I was cruising my old posts, I came across this one and thought it particularly appropriate, being I'm once again back in coffee. From January 2005:

The stupid ask questions too...

Conversations behind the bar:

-Hey, you guys have a trash back there?
-Nah, we just throw everything on the floor

-Can I borrow your bathroom?
-Sure, as long as you bring it back

-What does the Chicken Salad Sandwich have in it?
-Chicken.

-You still work here?
-No, they just let me stand behind the counter.

More to come later.

Who woulda guessed that?

2009-04-22T23:37:00.000-07:00

Nope. Didn't make it to the gym today. But I have high hopes for tomorrow. And with that, I leave you with this...

"You can do anything you set your mind to when you have vision, determination, and an endless supply of expendable labor." - www.dispair.com

Apparently, we should care.

2009-04-22T23:31:00.000-07:00

Happy belated Earth Day. Chalk one up for Captain Planet.
Oh, and here is this gem.

I need to scream and cry too.

I love the taste of the bottom of my foot

2009-04-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

You should never remind your co-worker that her child is illegitimate, no matter how legitimate the comment. Apparently, them's fightin' words.

Things You Shouldn't Say to Customers in Drive-Thru®

2009-04-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

"Sorry about your weight, what can I get for you...?"

Yeah fatty, what can we get for you?

How far is a two mile run?

2009-04-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I joined a gym. Again.

Apparently I have some money left over after the credit cards are done with me, and I feel the need to give it to a facility that I will never visit. I have plans to visit it in the morning, but it's kinda sketchy. The plans, not the gym. We'll see how this turns out.

Just when you think I've said it all...

2009-04-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

Bryan: ...but you don't want me to be a trucker.

Anna: Would you want me to be a trucker?

Bryan: No. Everyone would think you were a lesbian.

Anna: ...

Bryan: ...

Anna: Is that the only reason?

Bryan: No. Plus, your a woman and a lousy driver. You would kill yourself and others around you.

Think it hurts?

2008-05-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

April is gone...

2008-04-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

and if your reading this today, you realize that. So, its been a solid three plus weeks since Ive posted, so I thought it was appropriate. So, a few things of interest, and I am totally winging it:

My sponsor kid wrote me! I decided to sponsor a girl from Thailand when I went to the Tobymac/Jeremy Camp concert, and she wrote me! I couldn't read it, but it was awesome and totally made my day (ok, they did translate it, but her handwriting seriously needs some improvement). Her name is Tidarat Dana, and she is 9. It feels weird, someone leaning on you for support. A taste of fatherhood I suppose.

As of May 1st I will have been at my new-new job seven months, which is half a month shy of how long I was at Lithia. Also, I have a new co-worker, Krystal, which is a lot of fun. So, now I have two fellow church members to work with (we are going to take over the company merely by numbers). Before you know it, we will be having potlucks every Friday.

My brother has moved back to the area for a short time, so it is nice to have him around. He is here to help with a family problem that seems to get worse by the day. Please pray for my family in that area.

Ironman comes out this Friday. I am stoked, but sadly I have to work that night. But! I will be seeing it. That, and Leatherheads, if it's still around. Also, I highly recommend seeing Ben Stein's (Dry eyes? Red Eyes? Vysene has the ingredients to moisturize. Wow.) new movie, "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed." It's a very well executed documentary (and beautiful too, film and music) about how those who promote or even suggest debate about Intelligent Design (Creationism lite) are having their careers destroyed. See it!

Aight, Im out. Check ya later my peeps. Homies. White folk (seriouly LaDonna, who you kidding?)

So, Ive been...

2008-04-09T23:19:00.000-07:00

gone for awhile. I don't know how much I will start writing to this, but you just never know with me.

Ive been a bit melancholy as of late—you know, just that occasional depression brought on by tiny things adding up to the weight of an elephant sitting on your head. So, I have brought out a favorite movie of mine. Pride and Prejudice. I have watched it twice in as many days, and actually, it is playing right now in the background on my computer. I love that movie.

Work is going well, but kinda slow. I know, everything is slow right now, and believe me, I am thankful to have a job (actually two—I working very part-time at Papa John's again) and am able to pay my bills.

I was going to write more tonight, but it is getting late and I need to get to bed. Being all my readers think Im dead, I doubt anyone will read this, but if you do, welcome back.

2007-12-18T01:02:00.001-08:00

I'd post more, but it's 1 in the morning.

Sorry for the...

2007-05-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

lack of posting, but to be perfectly honest, Im not sorry. Ive been busy. If you're local, you know. Ive reduced hours at work, but the time I retrieved from the backlot of Papa Johns I like to spend in front of a book and coffee, not a computer screen. I work at a computer for 8 hours a day so coming home to do the same isn't as enticing as ACTUAL print on paper, not just pixels imitating language.

Since Im here lemme give you some wisdom I just picked up. Its not that I didn't know this, but I was reminded. I met an old friend at Starbucks today and he told me he just had to bury his brother. His brother had fallen off Table Rock while freestyle climbing. It had made local news and when I heard it, I thought, "Idiot." I felt a bit of shame when my buddy told me, but not necessarily for questioning his intelligence albeit a bit true - I know Ive done things that had I died doing, others would shake their head and question my intelligence as well. I felt a bit of shame because I forgot to remember that with each death there are others that are affected. We are often just left with the thought of the dead, but the fact that I had a vague personal connection to the tragedy brought it closer to home. No matter how we die, we are going to leave loved ones behind. Whether its a boring or spectacular death, what matters is the relationships. He told me tonight - "Always tell the ones you love that you love them." I always try, but its good to be reminded. We may never see them again. So, sincerely - I love you guys. I know who reads this, and I can honestly say that I love each and every one of you.

But, if you have to die, please do it in a way I can say - "Idiot."

As of today...

2007-03-23T22:52:00.000-07:00

Troy and I have been living together for 6 months. I should receive and extra star in my crown for not sending him on to Jesus sooner. :D

Life with Troy - Episode II

2007-03-15T22:07:00.000-07:00

I love daylight savings time. Ok, not really. It really throws a wrench into my schedule. I've been exhausted all week - more than normal. I do enjoy the "extra" hour of sunlight in the evening, but let's be realistic here. Daylight savings time is the equivalent of cutting your head off, standing in top of it and expecting to be taller.

I got home this evening and was putting my takeout dinner onto a plate, making small talk with Troy. Noting the time, I mentioned that it didn't feel like 6:30. Troy said, "Yeah, it feels like 5:30."

I just shook my head and chuckled.

Alright, let's slow...

2007-03-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

this train down. I should obviously not be writing posts when I am exhausted. The previous post, I promise, was not meant to hurt anyone's feelings or get my link on someone's blogroll changed. I just got on a roll. It was strickly for laughs; I don't thinks Chris's kids are ugly; I don't think ya'll are washed up babysitters. Anyway, just thought I would clear that up.

Good news - my houseplant is coming back to life. It's amazing what water will do.

Ok, what's the...

2007-03-15T00:18:00.000-07:00

deal? I was just over visiting Stacy's blog, and on the blog roll I noticed that I WAS DEAD LAST! What gives? I'm the AF Blogfather. I got EVERYONE going on this. I was the first! I don't expect to be above Zach, possibly Mandy - but I am even under Chris which is as pleasant as sharing a helmet with the drooling kid in the back of the short bus! He hasn't even posted since wishing us all Merry Christmas with his ugly kids arranged like a pinwheel (sorry Chris, but they did look like a pinwheel)! And don't even get me started on LaDonna!

I deserve a place of respect. I need to be moved up. I mean, but the time they get to LaDonna, they will think all of your friends are washed up babysitters - they won't even get to see my shining diamond of a blog. So Stacy, when you're done whining about warmer weather, please attend to this. Remember, there are bigger problems than you sweating.

It is now...

2007-03-14T23:55:00.000-07:00

Wednesday (for another 5 minutes anyway) and I have already put in my 40+ hours. Oh, and my feet are a bit on the ripe side. That pretty much sums up my life right now.

Just a hint...

2007-03-07T23:44:00.000-08:00

to those of you without forethought - when you are walking with a group of people and the thought pops into your head to say, "Let's follow the chubby girl...", make sure that there isn't a chubby girl walking with you in your group.

Just a thought.

I finally have...

2007-03-07T00:52:00.000-08:00

my own internet connection. It all started when the signal I was "borrowing" started bouncing me. I have to have the internet . It's like an IV hook up - just plug it in the arm watch the ones and zeros pulse.

So, like any addict, I snapped. I humbled myself and knelt before the gangsters at Charter and have signed up. I now also have digital cable. I hate it. I can feel the productivity being sucked out of the room. I don't have time to waste time, but somehow I find it. Try to figure that one out. Anyway, if you now expect more posts because of this news, don't count on it. Maybe. We'll see.

An idea sometimes...

2007-02-09T14:50:00.000-08:00

seems so simple. You hear it and you think "why even a retard could have thought of that - why didn't I?" I had such a moment yesterday evening.

I hate credit card companies. With a passion. If credit card companies were people, I would find them, bind them, cut off their arms, legs and tongue. Then I would gouge their eyes out and puncture their eardrum - essentially leaving them isolated in their head; no one to talk to, no one to hear. Yeah, totally.

But, since I can't do that, I discovered a bit of vengence - Get your pens and papers boys and girls, cause here we go.

Every credit card offer comes with a return envelope - "No postage necessary if mailed in the United States". Well, take advantage of this "generosity". Fill it with pennies, or washers, or lead. Something very heavy. You see, they have to pay for the weight of the envelope. Do this several times, and watch your junk mail disappear.

So simple. Beautiful.

Life with Troy - Episode I

2007-02-07T12:23:00.000-08:00

For those of you that don't know, I have moved out of the parental unit's abode and created my own cave. I have a roomate, a relation and a lot attendent neatly packaged into one 10x10 room. We've live together now for about 4 1/2 months and it has had its interesting experiences. Ive never had a roomate besides my parent and brother, and I got to know them slowly over the years. I was accustomed to normal people. This, and the episodes to follow, are to illustrate why it is a joy - and pain at times - to live with someone so... different.

One evening before I went to work Troy asked if I could get him into Costco so he could do some shopping. He had a little money and wanted to spend it on food. As I liked food too, I was accomodating. Off we went to Costco.

We were cruising the isles, and Troy told me that we couldn't spend more than $40 - that was all he had, and I never carry cash (and Costco never takes debit). A little ways into the journey, Troy pulled out his money and recounted it - "Hey, I counted wrong. We have $80 to spend." Great! More food! We walked and looked a little more, but something had to be chewing on Troy's mind as he took out his cash again and re-recounted it.

"Ahh, never mind - we only have $40. I had the money folded over."

You might think...

2007-01-30T12:11:00.000-08:00

that a person would be spared embarassment and hassle when they go shopping for groceries at 11:30 at night. Well, that's what you get for thinking.

Troy did us the favor of cleaning out the fridge last night - he did it the old fashioned way; triage.

Cottage cheese is a funny thing. I mean, you generally throw away milk when it starts to curd, yet the beginning of the cottage cheese journey starts with it curding - bizzare if you ask me. Suffice to say I bought said cottage cheese during LAST MONTHS grocery expedition (right before Christmas - rookie mistake) and when I went shopping last night I just assumed it had died in my fridge already. I checked when I got home; expires today. I think I can nibble at it for a week.

Whipped cream cans are slippery little suckers. I grabbed a can last night and while trying to shake it before throwing it carefully in the cart it pulled a Superman followed by a Kristi Yamaguchi (that is if Kristi missed her triple axle and when skidding across the ice and plowed gracefully into the barrier). It barely missed a kind young couple walking past. The women looked back at me an smiled.

"Ah honey, look at the handicapped man shopping all by himself."

'Tis the season...

2006-12-19T14:50:00.000-08:00

to get fatter. Along with all the chocolate, pies, fudge (hey, Aunt Sis, where's my package?) and other stuff, I now have yet another belly stuffer to add to my ever-increasing impression of the Michelin Man. The agency gave me an ID project (logo and some photoshop work) and the client makes cookies. They are going online, and my role to to help them get a web ID. Very pleasant Christian people. They have a company moto - "Take two cookies and call me in the morning." They believe in spreading cheer by giving some of their product away if they encounter someone having a bit of a rough time. The cookies are ginormous. Anyway, they have stopped by about 3 times now and I always get at least two cookies. They are some of the bestest, but seriously... Ponch blewey!

I guess there are greater problems to have in this world right now.

My life has...

2006-12-16T12:09:00.000-08:00

taken a turn - one of those significant turns in life, not just the slight adjustment to the left or right. In the midst of it is hard to tell if it is for better or worse, but being armed with scripture helps to cast a light in the dark. I will be a better person for it and I know God's hand is in it. It can be hard to realize, but usually where God's hand is, his will is there also - and it is a good place to be even if it stings for a bit.

For over the past year I have been living in the belief of something and now I have been thrust into the unknown again. I have never been more confused in my life, but somehow I still know God's will. I have been focused on something, and God has taken it away from me, leaving only him to focus on. I truly feel this is where I am supposed to be right now at this time in my life. I look around me at my peers and wonder what magic they have invoked to be where they are at today, but I have to remind myself that they are not me, nor I them, and that I am still a work in progress. God is not behind on his schedule, but right on the money. If I believe that God's hand is in the good times, I must believe that is in the tough times. Growing pains hurt but it is comforting to know that I am not alone in this.

I ask you for your prayers.

This is why...

2006-11-28T11:02:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. I had to come to Ashland this morning for a client meeting. The city was hit by a light snow storm last night, which was continuing as I drove into town. It continues now. I'm sitting in Starbucks as I write this, catching a glance over my shoulder every now and then to see the snow drifting down. It is absolutely gorgeous. Say what you want to about Ashland and its residents - it is a beautiful little city, especially dressed in white. I am also listening to Enya's new Christmas album and one of the most beautiful performances of Silent Night. I have listened to it over an over the last few days and I get the same feeling every time. It sends me to another time - often I think that I am in the cattle stall, kneeling next to Christ himself. It is truly the most wonderful time of year.

Some of you...

2006-11-23T07:59:00.000-08:00

might be asking yourself (if you actually look at the timestamps of the posts), "What is he doing up before 8 am on Thanksgiving,...cooking?" That answer is no. I got up to go have a breakfast with a friend that was passing through town on his way up to Portland to make out... I mean eat dinner with his girlfriend and her family. So! I thought that I would do a little Thanksgiving post and make a list of the things that I am thankful to God allowing me to have for a time. Here we go:

1) Being in a country where I can serve my God as I choose. Also, for the chance of being a Christian, for without Jesus Christ we would all be lost.

2) My new apartment. I freak out now about how I will pay the rent next month, but it's nice to have for now. :p

3) My piece-of-junk car. As much as I hate it, I am truly thankful for it as the alternative is much more inconvenient and healthy. Also, that it has lasted as long as it has - I was told three months ago that it could implode at any time.

4) My family. As far as we go, they're all nut jobs - but the nut doesn't fall far from the tree. The older I get and the more separate our lives become, the more I cherish the moments we get to spend with each other. I love you guys.

5) My friends. I constantly thank God for the friends he has given me. By my age life has sifted out the true friends from the convenient ones, and you know who you are. Life would be much less bearable without you. I love you all as well and would do anything for you.

6) My job(s). As much as I would like to have that one lucrative 8-5 job, my scattered schedule has given me two to three at a time. It pays the rent I so much dread, and I meet good people along the way. Thank you Lord.

7) My talents. I don't say this to brag, for there are as more talents I lack as there are that I have. I know in my heart that what I do have are gifts from God and without Him giving the increase, they would be nothing.

8) Good health. Yeah, I've got a few dings in the fender, but overall, I am doing great. Every time I complain about a health problem (or any problem for that matter), God is faithful to show me another person who has more to complain about. It could always, always, be worse.

9) Coffee. Sweet nectar of the gods. (Yah, I fell off the wagon).

10) Good food. Only two are blessed to have Becky Hinkle for a mother and a cook and the time for signing up has long since passed. Actually, that's not true; she has adopted virtually every one of my and my brothers friends. Kinda like a shelter for strays.

There yah go - my top ten (not necessarily in that order). I know we can all have our top ten - twenty- one hundred; we just have to open our eyes. May God bless you this Thanksgiving (and I guess tomorrow too - don't get trampled by the crowds). Take care.

Thoughts of turkey...

2006-11-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

danced in their head. Happy Thanksgiving ya'll. As the song says, this is the most wonderful time of year and may you and your families have a wonderful day - month - New Year (but I'll catch those in future posts).

I have to say with a heavy heart that most of you cannot have the most Happy Thanksgiving possible as you won't all be eating my mother's Thanksgiving meal. Ya'll just can't fit in the house and I, frankly, eat most of the mashed potatoes anyway. But here is a compromise - the following is a list of things that those blessed souls eating at my parents will be partaking of:

Ranch whipped mashed potatoes
Teriyaki turkey
Luscious gravy made from the turkey broth
Candied Yams
Homegrown corn cooked with a touch of honey
Green beans
Homemade cracked wheat rolls
Cranberry sauce
Pumpkin pie
Peach pie

What can I say? I'm fat for a reason.

Its a funny...

2006-11-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

thing to have a job where you walk around and interview people at a whim. When you walk into a room with a camera taping, people act kinda funny. They try to act normal, but you can always see that one wandering eye and the subtle suspicious look that says "I bet he's a pornographer." Ok, just kidding. But they do have a look of dissatifcation at my being there, as though my recording the small segment of their is going to destroy their soul. Chances are the worst it could do is come back to haunt them when they decide to run for office after they have sowed their wild oates; on a conservative ticket of course.

When I write this I am thinking of a specific event - the SOU Homecoming to be exact. If you've gone and viewed it, thanks for the patronage. Not really much to see unless you like somewhat-chubby and scantely clad college girls dancing. Ahh, I've been down this alley before.

I meant to write about this awhile ago, cause it was a bit entertaining and disconcerting at the same time. When I arrived at the dance, there was a security checkpoint - and when I say security I mean a zit-faced freshmen in and SOU T-shirt with at six cell MagLight. After I identified myself and go the ok to enter, the kid stopped me and told me he had to search my bags. Ok, fine - I can understand that. But while he was sneaking a peak, a question came to me; what would the kid do if I had a gun and had intent to harm? So, being the inquiring mind that I am, I asked.

Me: "So, what would you do if I had a gun?"

Barney Fife: "Uh, I guess I'd call campus security."

Me: (Laughing) "Oh yeah, they'd be here quick I bet! How does that make you feel that you are essentially a sitting duck in a shooting gallery?"

Barney Fife: "Uh... -----."

Me: "Yah, just something for you to think about." I then walked past him to enter.

Barney Fife: "Hey, thanks for making me feel secure about my job."

Me: "No problem. Just trying to help."

So I went in and shot the Homecoming dance, but there was a bug in my ear now; I really needed to get that on camera - it was priceless. After I was done, I went out to interview the kid on tape. I just started as his boss came - and by boss I mean an upper-classman with a stud in his lip with a slightly more official looking T-shirt.

Andy Taylor: "Sorry, but we're not allowed to give interviews while on duty."

Me: "Why?"

Andy Taylor: "It's just school policy. We're not allowed to give our opinion while on duty - representing the school."

Me: "Well, I really wasn't going to be asking an opinion question."

Andy Taylor: "What were you going to ask."

I then explained, etc. aforementioned events.

Andy Taylor: "Yah, sorry, we can't do that while in uniform."

Me: "Your uniform is a T-Shirt."

Barney Fife: "I'm glad you told me. I didn't know that."

Andy Taylor: "Yah."

Me (to Barney): "Ahh. Well, nice uniform by the way. How much did that cost you?"

Barney didn't like that question.

Anyway, this illustration still shows that every one of those kids would be in trouble if some kid showed up with a mental condition and a vendetta. And why doesn't the OUS (Oregon University System), as a policy, allow concealed carry on campuses? They are putting their students in more harms way by preventing law-abiding citizens to carry.

By the way, their policy cannot be enforced. Oregon concealed handgun law explicitly state that only the Legislature can change the handgun law, and right now it allows virtually unlimited restriction to where a licenced CCL holder can carry a gun. The exceptions are; Federal buidings, Courtrooms (where the judge has it posted) and private residences or businesses that forbid it. Otherwise, we have free reign. I carried almost every day that I went to SOU. I never shot anyone.

Would have liked to, but that is another story.

I hope you...

2006-11-14T22:59:00.000-08:00

are sitting down. I have decided to temporarily quit drinking coffee. If you need to talk about this, feel free to leave a comment.

I have a...

2006-11-10T11:57:00.000-08:00

new job - I should say assignment rather. The Ashland Daily Tidings has hired to me to be one of their stringers. My first assignment was the SOU Homecoming dance where I went and video taped college girls, uh, dancing and stuff. I think some guys where there, but who really pays attention them. Seriously.

No but seriously, but favorite assignment was Election Night where I was unleashed on Ashland with my little Canon. I was a bit nervous, but once I started talking to people, I found a flow that worked pretty good. Anyway, you can be the judge yourself. I interviewed about 10 people and I think about 9 of them ended up on the Tidings website. Here is the URL so you can judge my performance for yourself: http://www.dailytidings.com/video . If you are from Oregon, check out the State Sen. Alan Bates, State Rep. Peter Buckley and State Rep. Sal Esquival. It was interesting.

I have decided...

2006-11-09T11:41:00.000-08:00

to leave the Republican party. In fact, I plan to make that change today, as soon as I finish my lunch. This is a revelation that I never thought I would do, but the fact is that as a conservative, the Republican party offers me no advantage anymore. Looking back over my tenure, I can't really remember what they initially offered me except that it was the party of my parents and gave the persona of have a conservative majority and thereby fought for those ideals. They were not the party that took back power in '94. They were corrupted by their new found power - a power which ironically at times refused to use and collapsed under a linguini spine.

The conservatives are no longer in the seats of power - at the least the sphere of influence in Washington. We cannot count on our President. He signed any spending bill that the so-called smaller government Republicans sent them; I can only imagine what he will sign when the Democrats send him a bill. He stated that he would work with the Dems on a minimum wage bill and noted that he might have an easier time getting his comprehensive immigration reform through the new congress. I sadly regret voting for the man. He is not a conservative - and never was. He is just another politician that duped the God-fearing masses. Twice. Shame on us.

Anyway, to my conservative brethren and others who read this blog, I ask you to do the same. Maybe with a massive hemhorage of membership the Republicans will realize that while the Democrats have become the party of the cicle and star, they are now the party of the donkey and no longer offer anything to their conservative base. Good luck to them. Honestly.

Three-thousand is...

2006-09-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

a big number. The number lost on that day is not an exact figure as events hardly ever produce such an even number. I don't know the exact number, but it is close enough. Some might say that the attitude of "give or take a few" is demeaning to those who lost their lives, but the fact is that the casualties of that day are not accurately numbered anyway; given the parents, grandparents, children, wives, husbands and all other manner of relations that lost their loved ones that day, three-thousand is quite a small number within that scope of thought. I have thought 'bout that number off an on for the last five years; the above thought just now hit me.

I will not spend long on this entry; I have posted my memories of that day before, and I don't wish to type them out again - I will some other anniversary as I hope to never forget what occured that day. I experienced no terror as I was too far away. Surreal would be the best word to describe it, and as I have seen and heard of what has transpired these five years, the illusion of a dream has been shattered. The one regret I have for that day is that I never threw a blank tape into the VCR and hit record so that I could re-live those days, and show them to my children. Righteous anger is required these days and such video footage would never let us forget. My children will have no context for this war as I am sure it will still be going when they are born. Such footage would do well to explain origins of their world but will never have the same impact that it had on myself and others that as we starred at our TV screens, mouth agape. They say the world changed that day five years ago, and it is true; my children will never live in the world I grew up in. The impact of such footage would no doubt give them information, but the sense of a world being ripped away will be lost on them as they never had it to begin with.

One man did record the events that day and edited according to how he felt that day as he never wanted to forget it. I think you would do well to look and remember.

Take care and God bless, my friends.

Ahhh, you want...

2006-08-05T00:38:00.000-07:00

me to finish the story. Sorry, but later.

Youth Camp was a hoot. If I can do my math right, this was my 16th consecutive year at Youth Camp, this being the year that matched my years as a camper (that would be eight for you Art majors). It is hard to believe that I have been a couselor for eight years. My how the years fly by. And every year gets muddled into the next. Every time I arrive onto the grounds, the memories flood back; the smell of the dust, the gritty layer of silt that builds up between my flip flops and my feet, the oh-so-inviting-mattresses-until-you-lay-on-them-and-sink-to-the-plywood-beneath because they are older than the cabins themselves - all trigger the synapses to memories stored for once a year viewing. The nuances of camp are always enough to make me grin, such as the notes stapled to the boys bathroom door inside the stalls that asks us please not to flush our sanitary napkins down the toilet - it plugs the sewer system you know. I always notice the little changes, but overall the camp hasn't changed much since they asked me to leave...err, I mean graduated.

This year was no different, at least for me. I seem though to have started a tradition of being injured playing softball, one of which I hope I do not continue next year (LW). Last year I took a line drive to the groinular are - barely missed the sacred spot and left a nice little purple number. This year I was fortunate - no line drives anyway. This year I hit a long pop fly and decided to jog through the first two bases as I was in flip-flops, but since the outfielding team was taking it's time getting the ball back into the infield, I decided to go for a home run. I turned on the burners after I rounded second and came up on third at a pretty good clip - for a 250lb guy anyway.

They had watered the softball field that morning.

I never saw the little mudhole crouching next to third. I was going too fast I wasn't really slowing as I had no intention of stopping and instead just round and hustle for home plate. I planted my left foot right into said mud and it was a train wreck from there. It happened so fast, but after analysis of my injuries and how I finally ended up, my conclusion is that I went down on my left side first - got the skid marks and bruised hip to prove it. I caught myslelf with my left hand, which explains why it was sprained. When you are and big as me and cruising as fast as I was, you have a lot of inertia and momentum going on; you don't just stop on a dime. I continued to roll and gashed up my left forearm and ended up flat on my back, staring at the sky wondering what the heck just happened. It hurt too. Oh the pain. I could hear the giggles too. I must confess that it was probably pretty funny to watch - it was a spectacular wreck.

I'm not too sure how long I laid there, but it could not have been too long as I had the presence of mind to get up and touch 3rd before I was tagged out. Either that, or they just had mercy on my. As I dragged my aching behind off the ground I looked over at Katie Wakefield as she was bent over and laughing so hard her face was red. She asked me it I was ok (she was Camp Nurse); I replied that I would live. I shook it off pretty quick and didn't notice the quirk in my wrist until I got back to the bench.

Again, I hope this tradition does not continue.

The campers were a bit odd this year in a few respects. The boys actually took showers - willingly and of their own accord. The girls, from what I hear anyway, did not fair so well in the bathing area, at least the younger ones anyway. Also imagine my suprise the first morning when I got up at 6:45 to shower before the guys got up and the bathroom was full of guys from the older cabins. This was highly unusual behavior. Almost a Biblical sign of the times.

To wrap up: grubbin' food, great meetings, and good fun and company. All in all a successful year.

As I laid...

2006-08-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

there under the dash of Geo with the plug in hand, I thought to myself, "Where are my wire-cutters?"

Some days suck. Plain and simple. You wake up and you can feel your ears pop; joy is being sucked out of your daily schedule. Last Thursday (as in 7/27) was such a day.

I woke up, got ready for work in my usual hurried fashion, headed out the door - "oh yeah, my headlights don't work." This was an epiphony from the previous evening, the cap on an otherwise perfect day (work, massage, movie, early bedtime - ahhhhh). I guess it was inevitable that the next day would be such a puckering sphincter.

So I call my boss, told her I would be a tad late while I persued the remedy to my problem, which was a new dimmer switch for my Geo. An so the suffering began...

Went to Napa to see about getting a new one. I mean, how much could such a little piece be....really? The answer to that question is $145 and a week's wait, plus shipping. Ok, so who really needs headlights anyway?

So I decided that the junk yard would be my new best friend. The first junk yard turned out to be the sort of friend that said he had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but after you walk out into the yard you discovered he was full of crap and there was not peanut butter in the sandwich, plus the sandwich was the wrong year. Punk.

The second junk yard proved to be a better friend - but there were yellow jackets buzzing around the sandwich and I wasn't exactly dressed for battle. I told them I would be back the next day and more than able to fight the flying little scavengers.

On my way to work in Ashland I decided to stop at another junk yard on a whim. This was the greatest friend you could have - he had THREE PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICHES! All with peanut butter.

I chose the car, grabbed my tools, and upon arrival discovered, yet again, yellow jackets. So the owner of the yard gave me some brake cleaner and said that it would kill 'em dead quick. Hmmm, then "what is Raid for?" I thought to myself.

Didn't work to well. I never got stung, but it took forever to pull that dimmer switch out. I would look around for the all clear, rush in, try to unscrew something, then I would see one of those little buggers and I would retreat, shooting as I went.

Anyway, I got the part. How much could it cost? $25 is the answer to that question. Now we're in my price range.

I went to work, worked for a 1/2 hour and then went home to install the piece. Got home and, well....

I'm tired. 'Til next time, this is the AFC Blogfather signing off.

As I lay...

2006-06-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

here, fat and happy (I had In-N-Out about and hour and a half ago), I just thought I would let you know my grades for this last term. 4.0. Not sure I deserve it.

BUT!

Four. Point. Oh. I can dig it. First one ever in 21 years of education. Pretty cool. Anyway, back to doing nothing.

It can be tiring.

Ok, so just...

2006-06-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

over two weeks since I posted (today is the 20th, right?) Well, I graduated. For those of you who weren't there, here is some proof.

Yeah, that is the President of the University, Elizabeth Zinzer (you ever seen more Z's in one name?). She gave a wonderful commencment speech about how to be an "active verb". I would have listened more closely if it wasn't for my iPod being in my ears.

Anyway, graduation was blast. It was overall a very surreal day. It wasn't like when I graduated High School - it was different. I kept expecting to get hit with this feeling of finality, and I did, but not to the extent that I did at high school. I was a lot of fun. I will miss a lot of my friends from college, but I still have their numbers to keep in contact. I gotta have options for slaves when I get my own design firm going:

The guy yawning is Kyle. He is an awesome 3D modeler and industrial designer. The really, really blonde girl is Michelle - she is a designer like myself and a darn good one too. These are two of the few that I will miss hanging out with in the Mac labs working on our stuff. The girl on the far left is Darby. I don't know what discipline in art she does, but she's hot. But alas, I must not wax nostalgic.

So yeah, college was a hoot. But it is over, thank the Lord. Thanks to all who came to my BBQ afterward. I had a blast and am truely humbled that you all came. I love every one of ya.

I am sitting in a coffee shop in Bend right now. I came over with my brother Sunday afternoon, and will be leaving tomorrow for Sacramento for the rest of the week. Shout out to Mr. Simon Baros who turns 26 tomorrow. It's not as bad as you think bud. Aight, that is it for now. Take care everyone and thank you, thank you, thank you for all your prayers. Words cannot express.

Dude, I seriously...

2006-06-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

have no motivation right now. I am zapped. Sapped. Sucked dry. Tapped out. Totally fried. Baked. Toast. Juiced. Withered. Left for dead. An empty shell.

Pooped.

I've been thinkin'...

2006-06-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

(granted, rather briefly) that I should call my Graduation BBQ the "Graduation Ho-down Throwdown '06". Sound good?

I like it!

Kinda bored right...

2006-05-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

now as I waiting for a 3D animation to render. Takes for stinking ever. Anyway, how was your Memorial Day. Mine was alright. I had one goal - to come out and do homework, get as much done as possible as not to was a complete day off. I was truely nice to wake up (late) and not HAVE TO be anyway. Hasn't happened in quite awhile. Ahh, I will get my payday here in about 18 days. Actually, if I bust my hump, it will be less. But in actuality, my term ends in about a week and a half. Of all my classes, one professor teaches three of them. He likes to have his finals during dead week, which this term is fine by me. I am on track to complete everything, but I am trying to stay ahead of the game. My animation class is the bane in the ointment this term (yes, I know that is not the saying) so the sooner I finish the final project for that the better. I hope to complete that this week- then I can focus on my Special Projects class, which is essentially an independent study class for art students. I will rock that one. Maybe.

Aight, I am bored with this now. Have a good evening, day, or week, depending on when you choose to read this.

So, I'm gonna...

2006-05-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

have a party. Ya'll can come. Just be sure to R.S.V.P. (whatever that means).

The food is free. The plates, napkins and utensils are $50. J/K. They're only $35.

There has been...

2006-05-13T09:43:00.000-07:00

some discussion over at Matt's Place about the overall general meaning of words pertaining to the dance that we young people do in describing each other's level of attractiveness. This degenerated (thanks partly to me) to a discussion of "checking out women". If you wanna read my comments, they speak for themselves, and I stand by them. The point of this is to clarify the overall topic. My comments were written in a bit of ire as I felt my character was being attacked, but now that I am a bit further removed from the topic, I would like to clarify a few things.

To the ladies - (This is from a Christian male's perspective)

1) Men can be dogs, yes. Just because we look at you because you have an appealing form does not automatically mean that when we look at you we a) are undressing you in our minds or b) think you are just sex toys. It is a compliment - whether by hard work or acceptional genetics - you have been blessed with an appealing figure. We're not trying to degrade you. BTW - Guys are checking you out all the time - more than you even know. For all the idiots among my brethren, most of us are very adept at covert ops when it comes to checking out the girls.

2) That figure is not standard cookie cutter. What appeals to me does not necessarily appeal to other men. I will leave my preferences to myself, but I will say that I do like a variety of all shapes and sizes.

3) The form is the FIRST thing you encounter, unless you meet the person the net. You cannot avoid face time. It is shallow not to talk to someone or interact with someone because you don't think they are good looking, but it is NOT shallow if you are not attracted to the person because, in your eyes, their are not appealing. We all have our preferences, and they should not be discounted because "it only matters what is on the inside." That is a load of Democrat. Ultimately, yes - the inside is the most important - but you have to like what you see on the outside - and again, that is not standardized. If you stand by the "inside principle", you might end up with a wonderfully pleasant person that you cannot look at while dining because it would end in throwing up. I will admit though that many times I have become deeply attracted to someone after getting to know them more when I was initially not attracted to them, and vice versa.

4) Even the most miniscule things catch our eyes - please be careful what you wear and how you wear it. And if you think it might be too tight, I guarantee it is. This is not to excuse improper male behavior. If we act untoward women, regardless of how they are dressed or how they act, we are firmly in the wrong column. But don't dangle filet mignon in front of someone who to trying to be a vegetarian despite his yearning for tender, juicy meat. If you got it, don't flaunt it. Save it for your husband. That's God's idea, not mine. It makes it tough to think about anything else when all you see while walking down the street is cleavage, thongs, lack of bras and exposed midsection epidermi. Please save us the burden.

That is all I have. You ladies are divine creatures, and I don't want to offend most of you. I think if helps if you understand how we work. This is our nature, not nuture. If you really want to delve more into what men are about, especially if you are around "marrying age", I encourage you to read "The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands" by Dr. Laura Schlesinger. I have read it, and agree with the premise 100%. If you follow the guidelines, you couldn't avoid a happy marriage. Even if you are not married, it gives a lot of insight to the nature of what it is to be a man. We are not complicated creatures.

Take the compliment when a guy checks you out. It won't happen when you're 60, so enjoy it while you can.

BTW - To the ladies who read my blog, leave your comments (or write your own post) about the inner workings of your mind. That has always been an interesting topic to me - and probably every other man. It helps all sides if you own your nature, talents and quirks.

So, I haven't...

2006-05-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

posted in awhile. I was doing good there for a bit, like three days in a row (I can't really remember, it's been awhile). So, let's see what's new with me. Um.....still working two jobs, still taking 16 credits, still have a girlfriend... wha? Just kiddin on that last one. We broke up.

So, to my elderly readers - have you signed up for the Medicare prescription plan? What irks me about that is, not only is it yet ANOTHER bloated burden on our economy, but they are trying to extend the deadline so MORE people can sign up. Are you seniors really that stupid? (Present company excluded). If ya'll haven't gotten in line to what amounts to free drugs by now, my guess is you don't wanna. I mean, seniors have more time in your day than most - I think they could find the time to read the pamphlet or find someone to help. The government just wants to get as many people obligated to them as possible, even if they have to knock on you door and guide you to your computer.

I think after this primary I am registering as an Independent. Seriously. Both parties - same garbage, different piles.

Don't you think...

2006-04-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

it is a bit ironic that a student has to pay almost $60 for a two year old used book in a Business Ethics class?

Just a tad.

I consider myself...

2006-04-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

to be a history buff. Being an art major, I find that art history is a perfect blend of two of my passions (for those you in the Tacoma area, that would be art and history). I am taking an art history class this term, the first in quite a long time and I am enjoying it. Apparently I am the only one though.

You see, this class is what SOU dubs a 'synthesis course', meaning that it is an upper division gen. ed. course in the field of Arts and Letters. While a student does not have to take this specific course to graduate, they must take a course off the approved list of 'synthesis courses' - in the fields of "Arts and Letters, Science and Social Science" - to graduate. I find this practice to be ridiculous, but that is for another topic.

What is on this topic is the complete void of knowledge concerning history. I know that I am bound to know more than the average student in that class give a) my superior intellect b) my passion for the subject c) my good looks and d) my age, but it is ridiculous the amount of silence in that class. I must have answered 75% of the questions asked in class, maybe even 85%. I wasn't really trying to show off, but after the professor would say, "does anyone know..?" Nuthin'. Crickets. Then he would say, "Anyone." That is when I would chime in. But seriously, some of these questions were no-brainers. What happened from 1775-1783? Uh, that would be the American Revolution sir. That would be kids stuff. We were building a timeline, and not everything happened in America, but for 50 students in a 300 level college course, they should be able to ballpark the French Revolution. That would be 1789-'99, for those of you in Sacramento.

What makes it worse is that due to the nature of sythesis courses - meaning that non-art majors are taking the class - the material is dumbed down for the non-majors. It is a sad state indeed. On the upside, there is no lack of hot women in the class, and Spring is in bloom.

Women artists of the Ashland variety can be so "earthy." ; )

In the spirit...

2006-04-10T21:11:00.000-07:00

of the season:

Have you done your taxes yet?

Now that I...

2006-04-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

am experienced in the ways of mascot-hood, I would like to record the following oberservations:
- There is a surprising amount liberty wearing the costume. People don't know who you are, and you can check out chicks without them even knowing.
- A lot of people asked if they could eat me. This disturbed Bryan.
- Walking a mile in what are essentially cloth shoes can really do a number on an otherwise messed up back.
- Several people asked if I had pizza samples with me underneath my costume. This disturbed Bryan.
- Large, heavy cloth costume = large, sweaty man.
- Chicks dig pizza. Sure, they were all under 12, but who needs qualifiers?
- Dogs do not like pizza.
- You really have no peripheral vision in a costume - you never know if you just knocked someone over. But hey, parade's gotta keep moving.
- When you are posing for pictures with kids, you don't have to smile or make faces; you already have a permanent stupid grin on your costume. (You still make faces though).
- It wasn't until about 1/3 of the way through the parade that I actually caught a glimpse of myself in a window. Wow, did I look stupid.

I so wanna do this next year.

Ok, so I'm...

2006-04-08T02:17:00.000-07:00

stuck waiting on updates to download, so I will blog a bit more.

Brilliant move Steve.

Apple just announced yesterday a new program called "Boot Camp" which will allow the new Intel based Macs to run Windows XP. I think this can also be set up as a dual boot system. The idea is that while most software today is written for both PC and Mac platform, there is still some software only written for PC and people cannot justify switching to Mac as they would lose using that software. If a person had a version of XP on their system, they could still use their software.

I think I have just discovered Job's plan. While with the debut of the Mac Mini it was obvious he was aggressively persuing the PC market, there was still the software issue hanging over his head. And everyone thought that he was nuts to switch to Intel. But I believe an important piece to the puzzle just fell into place. Now that a person can effectively run XP - and all their precious software - on a Mac platform, why not invest a tad bit more money on a Mac system, which is a far better built machine than your average PC. You don't even have to spend more money in fact - just get the Mini. It starts at $599. Try to get a better, or more compact, PC for that price. I think Apple just might have a shot at taking down Microsoft now. I think it is only a matter of time.

If you are...

2006-04-08T01:55:00.000-07:00

At the Pear Blossom Parade tommorow, look for a big walking pizza slice. That would be me. Unless they put me in a Gorilla suit.

You should still be able to recognize me then.

To continue the...

2006-04-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

topic from the previous post, I am here to state that if the Republicans pass a guest worker program and do nothing about securing the border except talk about it, I will be voting 3rd Party - perhaps even Democrat - this November. I will go as far to say that if they don't do everything in there power to get a bill to the President this year before the election, I will vote 3rd party - perhaps even Democrat - this November.

Seriously, I don't see the point of having a Republican majority if they are not going to uphold Republican values. We might as well have Democrats in there. And if Bush gets impeached because the Dems regain the House - So. Be. It.

I might even laugh.

Che Guavera never...

2006-04-01T14:58:00.000-08:00

floated my boat if you know what I mean. Being the capitalist whore that I am never really role modeled Communists that palled around with Castro. I bring this topic to my humble blog because yesterday as I sat in a cafe (do I do that too much?) a Mexican train treked by, protesting the pending immigration bills in congress. I think it was Che Guavera day, so the ignorant migrants and their ilk felt obliged to waved the communist's image on a flag as the marched down the street of a town, in a country where they came to seek a better life. I'm not really sure how to say this is spanish as I speak a superior language, but lemme try: esta en un CAPITLOLISTO countrio! That better life you migrants seek would never happen if you were in Cuba - which is probably why you aren't jumping in a boat and rowing your way there. This whole imigration debate has really scorched my fajitas. If you wanna be here legally and sway public opinion in your direction, Intelligence 101 statest that a) you do not wave your home country's flag (especially if it is ugly) and b) don't celebrate communism in a capitalist country. I don't have the link, but did anyone else see the flag pole at the LA school where a Mexican flag had been put above a upside down American flag. My peppers were really sauteed.

My solution? Run with the first proposed bill - make it a felony to be in the country illegally and build a really big wall once we have tossed the last tostada back. Also, deincentivising the aliens; come down hard on employers which knowingly hire illegals. If we make it impossible for them to find a better life, they will stop coming.

I keep hearing politicians say that deporting 11 million people back to their country is logistically impossible. Not if you make being in this country a felony. Last I checked, if you were a felon in the U.S., Mexico was a pretty nice place to be. The smart ones will deport themselves.
Sure, there are losts of illegals that have been here for years and started families that knew no end, but I am of the cold-hearted illigitment son's opinion that they should still be sent packing and try to get back the legal way. Just because you broke the law fifty years ago doesn't mean you should feel the burn today. You made your own bed, now you get to sleep in it. I don't care if you're 60. They use that same argument for not executing old and feeble vermine; that just means we shoulda fried 'em before they got decrepite. But that's for another debate.

One last thing - there were several signs being held in the wandering Mexican herd, some of which were in Spanish. Are you trying to tell me that I not only have to tolerate your parade but I also have to learn Spanish to that I can understand what your whine is? It's simple communication people, and I am not about to cross that communication gap in my own country. So, in short, if you are here legally - welcome. If you are a decent hard working person, you have my respect. Otherwise, go back to the pit where you can wave your flag all you want to.

That felt good. Bile can be so bitter.

Ms. Shoo Qween...

2006-03-29T23:01:00.000-08:00

mentioned that some of the bloggers who had been to the "Jayberly" wedding, as she dubbed it. It was cool. People got married. There was an excellent string quartet. Bro. Jim Maxwell sand the Lord's Prayer. Jennifer Worthington, Kimberly's sister-in-law, sang an Alison Kraus song accompanied by the Mixer Bluegrasss whatchamacallit. Very nice too. Too all those that joked Kimberly would sing at her own wedding, it came true; well, sort of. Mr. Simon of DPG fame put together a powerpoint sideshow with a soundtrack - the last two songs of the presentation were Kimberly singing.

I too was at the reception, for a little bit. The line was really long. Really. Long. And it took awhile to get my blackberry cheesecake muffin, tea and nuts. Tyler Kaady ate my blackberry off of my blackberry cheesecake muffin. Jackass.

I also neglected to get a fork to eat my blackberry cheesecake muffin. I went to the reception table with all of the other cheesecake muffins (some blackberry) to get a fork. Just about when I got there, Jillian Luka called out to me, asking me about my hair (I got a lot of that this weekend). I continue my pursuit of the table while looking the other way, and swiped my elbow across Pete Sferle's wife's plate - she had coffee in her cup. Well, it did before my elbow hit it. The coffee soon covered the reception table cloth and Mrs. Sferle's sleeve and shoe. What made it worse was after I apologized profusely, she just wiped off her sleeve without saying anything and walked away.

The stain made a pretty pattern.

So anyway, that was my weekend. Half my weekend. My Saturday. Part of my Saturday. I should really stop writ...

The grades have...

2006-03-29T08:55:00.000-08:00

arriveded, and look like the following: A, A, A-, A-, B+. GPA: 3.74

All God, lemme tell ya.

So, in the...

2006-03-28T21:26:00.000-08:00

interest of nothing at all, lemme just post a bit. It donned on me this weekend, and has before as well, that our church sure does have a lot of Bob's running around. So, just for giggles, please post all the Bobs' you know (last name would help so we don't double count) and then we'll tally them up in the end. For clarity's sake, let's do Robert, as there are some that go by Rob, versus Bob, which is the way it should be anyway.

Ok, no revelations here. Comment and move on.

Thank the good...

2006-03-24T12:25:00.000-08:00

Lord, the term is over. And I am stoked. Can't you see the joy on my face?

The past two weeks have, frankly, stunk sweaty armpits. Dead week was spent trying to get as far as I could on my 3D model, and finals week was capped off by doing a marathon run of painting (conclusion: 1 painting complete, 3 started and completed). Now I am sitting in a Mellelo cafe, enjoying a cup of joe, writing this. I will be picking up LaDonna Monk in a few minutes, followed by Mindy Meeds (of Gringa fame), and will then be hitting the road to Portland. A buddy of mine made the comment that I am 16 credits to freedom, and how that rang true. All counted, I will have 215 credits when I graduate. It only takes 180 to get the Bachelors. Oh well, if your gonna do it, go all the way and then some, I say.

Kimberly Worthington is getting married tomorrow to Mr. Jay Joseph. Congrats guys. Joking aside, you are both wonderful people and count myself lucky to be your friend. And see Kimberly, taking another man's name isn't so bad, is it?

You knew that was comin'. =)

People are apparently...

2006-03-11T16:29:00.000-08:00

clamouring to see my new do, so without further adeu, I give you:

Love it. Print it. Kiss it before you go to bed.

A friend of...

2006-03-11T16:22:00.000-08:00

mine is going to Hawaii over Spring Break and I had this thought: I should make a life-size cardboard cut-out of myself and give it to her for her trip on the way over. That way, when she meets one of those hot hula dancers, she can get a pic with my poster! She said if I can get it to fit in her suitcase she would do it.

I'm gonna need a lot of cardboard.

For those of...

2006-03-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

you which haven't seen me in awhile - heads up, I'm growing my hair out. And losing weight again. And growing a goatee. The plan is to grow my hair 'til I graduate. Started in Oct-Nov, so it's pretty long now, but deceptively short due to the curl. Why you ask? Because I can... right now anyways. When I am bald it will be 'nigh impossible, so I am doing it while I can. Same with the goatee. I'm going for the rough look. As for the weightloss, I am down about 10lbs now from where I started, and hopfully in the next few weeks I'll be down another 10. I am doing it sensibly this time - no low carb stuff. I am just limiting my calorie intake and making better and smarter choices when I eat. I still eat chocolate - just a little tab of it though. Working so far. Cheaper too!

So, look for me at Kimberly's wedding. I'll be the one with really curly hair. Big curly hair.

I did forget...

2006-03-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

to mention that I DID get a new iPod a few days ago. An iPod Video. Very sleek. Very shiny and black. Once you go black, you can never go back. The new ones are so thin that I can still work out with the thing strapped to my arm. Very handy. Anyway, that is my update for you people who care. Until next month. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha...

I'm hanging by...

2006-02-28T22:46:00.000-08:00

a thread in many ways. Right now I am in the last hours between the balance of 0-50. In just a few hours I turn 26, thus setting off a chain of events that will eventually lead me permanent decay. The older I get, the more I can imagine myself being older. I know that sounds dumb, but really, when I was 15, I couldn't imagine being 30, or at least being able to do anything useful at 30. Thirty was old (still is, Chris, ha ha ha) - but the closer I approach the more light I see escaping the once thought rotting apple. Eh, we're all gonna die anyway. I know I will be the oldest I can be when I die. That's a fact.

My sanity is hanging in the balance too. I thought that I would be able to handle this 20-credit-2-job term, but I am hating life right now. Hating it. Hate hate hate. The only thing keeping me going is God and the thought that come June, that blessed morning when I wake up to go walk in the ceremony, I will have no more homework. Well, for free anyway. And, come this time next year, I will sitting in a cafe in Italy watching beautiful women walk by, and I might get to paint a few.

Sorry for the morose posting, but I am really tired. I am sitting in the Digital Art Lab. It is almost 11 pm, and I am about to start homework. Maya. 3D modeling. A little demon looking dude called Haden. I am thinking of giving him a backstory similar to the ugly duckling, but in a more divine setting. We'll see how he looks in a halo.

Night good people. Kiss your pillows for me.

So in the...

2006-02-10T22:18:00.000-08:00

spirit of the discussion going on over at Zach's place, I played a little with Photoshop at work today:

Makes a great background for a desktop.

Alright, alright, I'll...

2006-02-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

post if I have to. But gimme a second. I have to go to the bathroom.

Later.

I love raisins. God's candy.

So yah, I think I am going to be getting a new iPod, as mine won't hold a charge but for a bit. Haven't measure that time elapse exactly, so it's a bit. Just imagine a short time.

Yesterday was one of those days where you know you have to git 'er done, and you do. For the most part. As I believe have have stated earlier, I am taking painting. This class involves painting. Actually being there, moving around the paint with a brush, etc. This. Takes. Time. I am not very willing to part with my time easily, although, that happens anyway. Every minute. Every second. There's one. There's another. Gone. Gone. Go...ne..

So yah, I stepped up. I am actually starting to enjoy it, but I still have that gnawing feeling on me that I need to be doing something else, like watching TV. Ah poisons, they die so hard. I got some more painting done tonight too (good thing; assignment is due in the morning) as well as some 3D modeling. That is another story.

Well, this should do for a post. Nothing controversial tonight. I need to head to bed - some of us school types have been getting together on Wednesday mornings for BIble study. At McDonald's.

I think I am going to press for a better venue.

The Blazer game...

2006-01-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

was awesome. We were 13 rows up from the floor, just off to the left of the basket. The Blazers did not disappoint, blowing a 20 point lead down to 2, ending up winning by four. Today was nice. Zach and I slept in, had eggs, hashbrowns, bacon and toast for breakfast (lunch) and then went to Coffee People. Ahhh, the Black Tiger Milkshake. Good stuff. Pricey, but good.

We spent the afternoon at OMSI, catching a planetarium show and the Lewis and Clark movie showing at OMNIMax theater. I am taking my aunt out tonight for her birthday at Olive Garden. Should be fun times. Anyway, that is the update. Zach is sitting patiently, so I will leave you with this; I found an awesome cafe in Portland, on the corner of Division and 12th. Free wireless and good coffee, very pleasant atmosphere. Check it out if you the chance. Ramekin's Café.

Later on folks.

Word on the...

2006-01-26T22:17:00.000-08:00

street is that the Talking Sax is posting. Look here for updates.

*Update:He's up.

I found another...

2006-01-26T21:40:00.000-08:00

package of underwear! The Christmas love never ends!

Technology can be...

2006-01-24T13:44:00.000-08:00

kinda creepy. Here I am sitting here. Yup, right here. But I digress. I am listening to music at the SOU library in a group study room with a beautiful view. It truly is a beautiful day today. Slightly windy, not a cloud in the sky horizoned by snow capped hills. But again, I digress.

I am listening to music - someone elses music; someone else with a Mac, with iTunes, who has made their song library available to anyone with iTunes to freely listen to. I think I know the guy, but it is still kinda creepy. He is somewhere in this building. I kinda feel like I am reaching in to his pocket and fiddling with his, uh, iPod. At least that is what the kids are calling it these days.

Well anyway, thanks Tony Pallotta. Could you get some Dave Matthews Band for next time?

One of Michelle...

2006-01-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

Malkin's post today has really made me mad. I think, for today, I am going to set aside my usual rule of not calling names, as it is a poor way to argue. Warning: Un-Christian like comments ahead (ok, not too un-Christian like - just some name calling).

Malkin takes on Joel Stein, a seemingly preppy scuzzball who has claimed that he does not support the troops. Claiming that the troops are carrying out an immoral mission, regardless that they were ordered to, he states that troops should not be carrying out the United States imperialism, and those that joined, knowing they would, should not be supported.

I cannot understand the lack of brainpower that is takes to come to this conclusion of "thinking". He says that "when you volunteer for the U.S. military, you pretty much know you're not going to be fending off invasions from Mexico and Canada." Wow Joel, that one took a lot of thought. No one has ever joined the military to protect us from Canada or Mexico. In case you haven't noticed, people (and missles) fly now. Land invasions aren't the only thing going in warfare today.

What frosts me is that he says he has never done anything to serve his country, not even jury duty, yet he claims he does not support those who put their life on the line for him. Of course he doesn't think that he they are fighting for - they're fighting for Halliburton.

Joel, you have to start thinking past your trust fund. You have to start thinking. You may not agree with what the military is doing now, but what about when they are doing "your" bidding, such as "get[ting] lucky and get to fight ethnic genocide in Kosovo." What if the military, the grunts, didn't want to fight then. What if they didn't want to put down an invasion? What if, despite orders, they didn't feeling helping Katrina victims?

Fact is dirtbag that we all take the bad with the good. A military that gives it's soldiers options is no military at all. Maybe if you grew up with any amount of discipline, you might realize that men with options cannot be controlled. A disciplined military is that ONLY thing standing between you and everyone else that wants to see America go down. In case you haven't noticed, we are outnumbered in the world when it comes to manpower. Yet our reputation as one of the most devastating armies to walk the planet keeps the bad guys at bay.

Go ahead and live in your little world where no one wants to harm you are destroy your way of life. The military will continue to fight on, for you, with our without your support.

BTW, the military needs your support like a Baywatch babes need a bras. The military does just fine supporting itself.

P.S. - In the same post, but off topic, Malkin has been named the 49th most loathsome person in America. If you scroll down you will find that her book "Invasion" was condemned by 40 history professors. FORTY HISTORY PROFESSORS!!?? Wow. Who wants to bet which way they lean, and how much of history they have revised. Besides, history professors (and people with history degrees) are a dime a dozen.

The City of

2006-01-20T10:42:00.000-08:00

Medford has quite the racket going on down there at the Municipal Court. I went down there yesterday to take care I a ticket that I had gotten in December. After pleading "not guilty", the clerk offered me the option of traffic school. This carries with it 1) a mandatory $127 fine 2) $40 some odd dollars for the school and 3) a guilty/no contest plea. The good thing is that you are guarenteed that it does not go on your record, which was my ultimate goal in the first place. So, after telling the lady that it was extortion, I took the deal. As much I hate to say it, it was the better option. I don't have the time to come back for a court date, and with the guarantee that it does not go on my record keeps my insurance low. It still frosts me though how the government operates.

Low-life-no-good-steaming-piles-of-maggat-infested-money-dung (with better retirement plans than I will ever see). Hmmm, I feel better now.

So I am...

2006-01-17T10:10:00.000-08:00

a Javaslinger no more - at least in the occupational sense. I will always be a barista at heart.

The crew at my cafe took me to Tin Tin Buffet last night and got me the 7th Season of Friends. Now and I am one copy shy of having all ten seasons. The food was ok - mass production of chinese food never focuses on quality, just quantity, which is the idea I guess.

I didn't take the time to observe MLK day for two reasons - I am not black and I didn't care. There are a lot of "good" men in America's past, and apparently only one deserves his own day. I put good in quotes as MLK did lack a bit of character concerning his marriage, at least as history tells us. I don't denegrate what he did, but does he really deserve his own day? When I was kid my Dad said that the proper way to celebrate MLK day was to wash all of the cars on our property, and possibly invite relatives over to get theirs washed as well. Nathaniel and I did not share this view of celebration, but our opinion didn't really matter at the time - we washed. Dad said that MLK worked at a car wash when he was young and that he liked clean cars. I have never verified this fact, but I am pretty sure my Dad was full of crap.

Well, it's Tuesday, and the designer at work isn't showing, and apparently I am getting his work load, at least some of it, so I off I go. Have an excellent day.

The sermon this...

2006-01-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

last Sunday was concerning John the Baptist (contrary to popular belief, not John the Apostolic). It was about how he came to earth with a mission, completed it, and died shortly thereafter. This brought a question to my mind that I would like to pose to my reader(s). Are all of us sent to earth with a specific mission, or just some of us. As in JtB's case, he was sent to be the forerunner to Christ. Once he has opened the way, his life was taken. It appears that that was his only mission, but was it really?

In this day and age, are we as Christians sent with one mission (to spread the gospel), or are we just directed through God's plan to complete several missions, touch several lives, and complete and ultimate goal in the end? Are we allowed to live past our mission?

This may sound like some simple thoughts, but it just made me think. There are those in the Bible who had great impact on their world through many acts, such as David, Samuel or Elijah. But then there are those like John the Baptist, Jonah, and, in the bad sense, Akin, who did one thing worth recording, then died, or we heard no more. I think that last sentence was very bad, grammatically.

Anyway, I would like to hear your thoughts. Peace out my brothas, sistas and pets.

The fabric of...

2006-01-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

my universe is tearing. I paid full price for a coffee this morning.

Still getting the sleepy out of my bones. I woke up early this morning and attended the weekly mens Bible meeting at Sherri's. I had to get up at 5:30, so my mom woke me up at 5:15 letting me know that it was snowing, and that I should give myself extra time this morning to get where I need to go. I love my mom. She cares, but she cares waaaay to early in the morning.

Well, that is your update. Full price for coffee and snow. What else can you expect at 9 am?

Talk about a...

2006-01-12T10:38:00.000-08:00

popular class! I went to my PSY 313 class last night, which is titled "Human Behavior and Film". Everybody and their backpack wanted to get in (if I heard right, there were 20 people on the waiting list). Luckily, I was already in. It sound cool, but I gotta be careful. The format of the class is to break into groups, choose a movie, pick two disciplines to observe it from, compose 2 theories from each discipline and then go out and do research to back our claim on the movie. Starting in two weeks, the 8 groups will present, each having on night to themselves (the class goes from 5-9, Wednesdays). After the presentation, the class watches the presented movie.

My group chose "Maria, Full of Grace". Never seen it. Actually, none of us are quite sure we want to do that one, so we are meeting at the video store this coming Sunday to find a movie we agree on, then go screen it. Sounds like fun, but it's just another class that I don't really have time for. Plus, I hate group assignments.

My other classes, except the Painting and 3d Modeling, seem to look like they will be ok. I have a feeling modeling is going to kick my butt.

They told me I was too fat to model - I am out to prove them wrong.

Enough of this...

2006-01-10T09:53:00.000-08:00

New Years stuff. It's funny how the holidays are forgotten. I mean seriously, January 2nd I felt like the Christmas and New Years was a couple months earlier. Why is that?

So, I started school yesterday. Everything went as expected: Teacher - "Blah, blah, syllabus, blah, don't be absent, blah, blah, today is going to be a short class, blah, etc. " Actually, one class caught me by surprise - the teacher was in Portland, so hence therefore, the class was cancelled. Let's be realistic here - the first few days of school don't even really count.

I think this term is going to go well. I have a little bit more time off than I did last term, and as of this coming Saturday, the Mellelo's job is caput. I am excited to have my Saturday day's back. Aight, gotta work now. Later all.

Please accept with...

2006-01-01T01:35:00.000-08:00

no obligation, implied or implicit my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions or others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all...

...and a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2006 but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of the other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great, (not to imply that America is necessarily greater that any other country or is the only "AMERICA" in the western hemisphere), and without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith, choice of computer platform, or sexual preference of the wishee.

(By accepting this greeting, you are accepting these terms. This greeting is subject to clarification, or withdrawl. It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for her/himself or others, and is void where prohibited by law, and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher. This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting, whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of the wish issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher.)

Happy New Year -

Just to let...

2005-12-30T21:42:00.000-08:00

you know, my underwear are still comfortable. Ripped into the second pack today.

Underwear and socks...

2005-12-27T17:45:00.000-08:00

were pretty much all I got for Christmas. My mom gave me $50 to shop for myself and some co-workers got me a few things (one of which was a slinky that my cousin Samuel, age two, destroyed Christmas day. I was devastated). It's all good though. Like I said earlier, it's not about the gifts anymore. I must say though, my mom got good underwear this year. Very very comfortable. Socks too.

So today was cool. Back in the saddle at the agency. Got up a little later than I wanted to and got there about 20 minutes after I wanted to. It was all good though. My boss didn't arrive until about an hour and ten minutes after me, then we sat in a production meeting for like, ever. After that it was all business. Overall, a good day so far.

So I am starting this fantasy book, Eragon. Looks good so far. I have been eyeballing it at Barnes and Noble for quite a while, and decided that I wanted to read a book without being prompted by producers making a movie of it. Speaking of which, I think I am going to tackle the DaVince Code soon, before the release. Trailer looked good.

Well, until later. I seem to be the only blog left posting these days, which is fine I guess. After all, I am the one who started the AF blogging craze. I was alone then. Alone is fine now.

Boy is this underwear comfortable...

If my parents...

2005-12-25T00:14:00.000-08:00

had told me when I was younger that there would be a time when I didn't really care about presents at Christmas, I woulda thought they were trying to scam me out of future gifts. I haven't just hit this stage, but I do find it funny how your focus changes through the years, where you start out a greedy little punk and end up a fat guy who likes to give (I wonder if that is how Santa started out) Well, I coulda done without the fat part, but I really do enjoy giving. It's so much better than getting, although getting is nice.

Well, enough blather from me. This is to say, Merry Christmas to you all. No profound words, just a shout out to my peeps in byte-land. Hope you get what you wanted, and may your bellies be tight this afternoon.

Merry Christmas - from the other jolly fat guy.

Anybody ever had...

2005-12-18T00:43:00.000-08:00

Vegan Pizza? How'd the Vegan taste? I think I prefer my Vegan rare. What say you?

Time to clean...

2005-12-17T11:38:00.000-08:00

house. My little iBook tends to fill up over a term, especially the desktop. Take a look...

So yah, that is one of my goals today - delete and organize. It is always a funny feeling to go from having soooo much to do, to having nothing to do (school work wise - there are always things to be done). This week was nice. What two nights I did have to myself I rather enjoyed just doing...nothing. I can't go very long like that. I have to be under stress to function. Part of my DNA I guess.

Well, my new job is going well, at least that I can tell from the reactions of my superiors. I have decided that I will be leaving Mellelo's as there is just no more room in my schedule for a third job, especially when I am taking on 20 credits. Sad to go, but it is necessary. I will miss working in coffee. My gut tells me though that I will be back before 2006 is up. Originally I was only going to come back to Mellelos for a short time. That was last January. So much for plans.

Well kids, hope you're getting all of your Christmas shopping in, I myself have about 100% left to do. Nothing new. I will be scrambling on Christmas Eve - actually no, I will be working then. Better make it the 23rd. Anyway, love you guys. Keep it real, and remember the reason for the season; that would be Santa Claus' birthday, in case you forgot.

Well, grades are...

2005-12-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

in, and apparently my word of the day is ABB-MP. Never gotten an M before, but I do know that it didn't count against my GPA, and the pass was a requirement; a letter grade was not an option. So yah, 3.2 something. Not too bad considering the work load I had. Next term will be much of the same, but I am trying to make as painless as possible. Anyway, this has been an update from your local Javaslinger. Please return to your regularly scheduled broadcasting.

It's do or...

2005-12-08T09:51:00.000-08:00

die time, and I am sitting in front of a computer typing an entry at the agency. Well, I said I would do some work today, so I am keeping with my word. Only a few hours here, then back to my house for the drudge that is animation. Then web design. From where I sit, niether will be completed. But the is ok - C's get degrees. And from where I sit, a degree sounds good right now.

On a positive note, I went and saw an advisor (the non-major type) to make sure that I was on track to graduate. Sure 'nuf, I am goooood. Plus, she wrote me past a science course I was going to have to take next term....NOW I DON'T HAVE TO TAKE IT!!!! Hallelujah, amen, praise the Lord and give me that old time religion. Have a nice day ya'll.

If you have...

2005-12-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

to wedge yourself into a car, is a seatbelt really necessary?

Today was one...

2005-11-30T13:01:00.000-08:00

of those sureal days. Far from over, I have already had a few experiences up to this moment that have made me stop and think "Huh?"

So, today I had a group presentation to give in my ART260 class - we were to meet at 9:15 in front of the fireplace in the Library. These words were spoken many times and even addressed in e-mails. Apparently this was to hard for one of our members, who was dubbed a slacker anyway. None of us were surprised.

So, while the ladies that did show up in my group were perusing the powerpoint that I had finished the night before, I felt my coffee kicking in, and excused myself. I did the duty, but when I came out of the stall, there was a girl standing in the bathroom. It was morning and I am not too engaged at this time to begin with, but alarms went off in my head none the less. My first thought was "is this a co-ed bathroom?" As I walked to the sink to wash my hands, I thought about saying something, but then I thought, "well if she isn't going to say anything, neither will I." I wasn't yet ready to concede that I was in the wrong room, so I waited for her to leave, then looked around. Sure enough - no urinals. Apparently I should have gotten a triple shot this morning. At this moment I knew our presentation was going to go off without a hitch. Sure.

Actually, the presentation went fine. Not my best, but whatever. It's over now. I went to lunch and then came to my internship (15 minutes past when I said I would be there - but hey, I was HUNGRY!) and the front door was locked. Very odd. It was 12:45 in the afternoon. So I hiked around to get in through the back entrance, and when I walked up, there was no one to be found. Not a single so.... OH, there's someone. Everyone went to lunch. On the company. The one time I don't come to without eating because I know I will be hungry forever, they buy us all lunch. So now here I sit, typing, awaiting my supervisor to put me to work. It is actually a nice change. Some pressure has lifted, and I am feeling good. That will evaporate when I start thinking about the next week-and-a-half ahead. Fun fun.

Have you ever...

2005-11-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

walked into a bathroom only to be alarmed that there is no fan. "THERE HAS TO BE A FAN!!" you scream. You look around desparately, first at the switch on the wall, then to the ceiling for any sign of a stench exit. There is some sort of vent up there, but what does it do? Then, you look at the switch. Next to the lights, there is an ominous red switch. You can tell by the glue stains it used to be taped up - must have been dangerous. But now it's not taped up. Is it innocuous now? Or did some rebel employee just yank it off in protest? "No pay raise!? I'll take this off, and let the intern burn down the building!"

I flipped the light switch - no hum of a fan, no screaming. Must just be dead. Well, time to do the business and I'll leave the door cracked. Has to be the best solution. Hope they have one of those descenter thingys.

Ladies, Gentlemen and...

2005-11-26T01:29:00.000-08:00

ugly children!! Stacy HAS POSTED!!!

(golf claps...)

Please return to your regularly scheduled programming.

Thanksgiving was most...

2005-11-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

excellent. Good food. Good rest. Good....um..Apprentice! Yah, I got up late. Didn't shower (I never do on the holidays - I love it!) cause I was going to go play some football, which later turned into basketball. Went to play basketball. Matt took his shirt off. I am just now able to look at things directly without seeing a white blur from the hole in my retna. Came home ate. Only one plate this year, but I had a big breakfast. That was my first mistake. Won't happen again.

So, I took some time to tie up some loose ends I needed to get done that have been nagging my mind. I also cut out my Dr. Scholes gel intserts into my Docs. Comfortable, but I would have to say that I would still care in I had hot coffe dumped on my lap. "Yes, there is considerable redness and swelling, but I'm still gellin'. And now, how 'bout that free meal?"

I also reexamined my schedule to graduate, and found out my plan to take one class for my transfer degree had a hole in it, about the size of a science class - one I needed to take at SOU anyway. So, I will be taking the classes at RCC, but I am saving myself no time. It changes only my Spring term, but I will graduate. I have to apply to graduate on Monday. Hope everything works out.

Well, have a good weekend all, and let the Holidays officially begin. Keep in real and take nothing for granted. A homemade card is far better than store bought. Presence is better than presents. Take care,

Time to trim...

2005-11-21T16:48:00.000-08:00

the fat.

School sucks.
Work sucks.

That is all.

The Civil War...

2005-11-19T14:22:00.000-08:00

Bring it you wood chipping little rodents. BOOM QUACKAAAA!!

So I get...

2005-11-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

these posts in my head, and then when I actually sit down to write something - I got nothing. So I am going to do what I did last time; just type and see what falls out of my head.

Cell phones - they are the devil. Actually, they are pretty cool, unless you have Cingular. Oh how I hate them, let me count the ways. Nah, I don't feel like counting right now.

So, the Duck game - the one I went to - did I mention it was rainy? And did I mention that I thought I was wearing a waterproof jacket and I wasn't? Did I mention that I kept my cell phone in said jacket? So anyway, after that, the vibration was on, but no one was home. Raising the bar my behind. Raising my bloodpressure is more like it.

But the good news was I was scheduled to get a new phone ten days later anyway. I called Cingular and talked them into letting my upgrade early without the penalties, and my new phone arrived three days later. I do like my new phone - hasn't given me reason to hate it yet. In fact I actually get decent reception. Imagine that - owning a cell phone and ACTUALLY getting to use it! :) It's a Motorola V551, the blue faced phone. Bluetooth, camera, video and all kinds of other things I probably won't use. Well, I am using the bluetooth right now - I bought one of those handy-dandy bluetooth headsets. Now I can really look like a geek.

Sorry, this isn't a very exciting post. I am just not in the mood to ruffle feathers. About my brain; ya, it's fried. I started an internship at an advertising agency for my Capstone class, which ads approximately 15 hours to an already 45-50 hour week. I have painted myself into a corner, and I can't escape. Even if I could reduce my hours at work to get more school work done, I would have to give them at least 1-2 weeks notice so they could cover me. And there is only 3 weeks left in the term. So, I just have to suck it up and realize I will not be getting all A's this term, and learn better for next time. Yah, next term. That's going to suck too.

The upside is that after this term, I have 9 classes left! That is if I remember to apply to graduate. Any apply for my Capstone experience. And not die...

In any other...

2005-11-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

circumstance I would have been so miserable and racked it up to a momentus miserable day on the calender of history. But I was watching my team, the U of O Ducks play Cal, and it was glorious. It was raining. And raining. And raining. Then it stopped for the third quarter, took a breather, the decided to blow it's nose on us again for the fourth quarter.

It was awesome though. The defense carried the game, with three sacks, one of which caused a fumble which the offending defender leapt on immediately; Ducks ball. The offense gave it back a few plays later, but it was cool none the less. I have to say sitting in the rain watching a live game is so much cooler than sitting at home, dry and watching it on TV. We are now 8-1, and now pushed up three spots to eleventh in the nation. Booooom Quacka!