WED - 11.05.03 - 12:00 AM
The ribbon is cut and the doors are open for business. Enjoy The Dosage, everyone!
THU - 11.06.03 - 12:55 AM
Thanks to everyone who wished me well as I graduate to my 20s. My day went well; I worked til 5, went to one class and skipped the other, went to bible study, then took a walk around the neighborhood. The weather was overcast and really cold all day, but I enjoyed it. I haven't had a winter in two years, so I'm looking forward to this one. These kind of days affirm the arrival of fall and really get me in the mindset of the time of year. I'm pretty excited.
I celebrated with my family on Sunday, because my dad left Monday morning for a seminar in St. Louis. I got some good stuff; a couple ballpark books, a box of baseball cards, CDs from The Flaming Lips and Built to Spill, money to buy myself a coat and new shoes, and of course, the Chiefs tickets. Sunday, I will attend my first ever Chiefs game at Arrowhead. Heeeeell yeah.
And lastly, I hope you like the new site. I've been working on it for over a month now, so leave me a message in the guestbook (which can be found on the contact page) and let me know how I did.
MON - 11.10.03 - 12:58 AM
Consider this a Sunday post. This morning was my Arrowhead experience. There's something about 80,000 people all wearing the same color and yelling in unison that sends chills up my spine. Anyway, a little recap of the day's events.
I went to the game with my Uncle Tom, and we arrived at the stadium about an hour and a half before kickoff. We ate some lunch at the car, then made the trek across two massive concrete fields to the stadium. It was cold, but not freezing. The parking lots surrounding Arrowhead Stadium become one living, breathing party on Sunday mornings. Flags, enormous inflatable helmets, grills, shouts...the atmosphere is exhilirating. Kansas City tailgates with the best of them. We waited in line at the gate for half an hour before we got in, but got to our seats just before the coin toss.
The game was great; the Chiefs won 41-20, but the outcome wasn't decided until about halfway through the fourth quarter, so it stayed interesting the whole time. Most of the Browns fans in attendance were sitting several rows behind us, but the scoreboard shut them up before too long. Dante Hall came thisclose to breaking the record for kickoff/punt return TDs in a season, but got tripped up 20 yards short. The weather was gorgeous. The sun came out right before kickoff to warm things up. Marcus Allen received his Hall of Fame ring at halftime, and I was amazed to see how much the people of KC still love him. He even got kinda choked up during his little speech.
My favorite part of the in-game experience was after touchdowns. The Hey Song would start up, and of course everyone yells "Hey!" at the appropriate times. But during the percussion break immediately following the "Hey!"s, the crowd chants in rhythm, "We're Gon-na Beat The Hell Out-ta You! You! You! You-You-You!" and points at the opposing bench during the "You!"s. Hilarious and motivational all at the same time. All in all, this was one of the coolest things ever in world history. Not a day I will soon forget.
I promise I'll update more frequently and less lengthy in the future. Good night all.
MON - 11.10.03 - 10:06 PM
I was going down Highway 77 just off I-35 on my way back to Norman after school tonight. There were a couple jackasses up ahead going the same speed and right next to each other so no one could get around. I know they were doing it on purpose because they would take off at the same time, then slow down to like 25 in a 55 zone. I was the only other car on the road, but I didn't react because I figured that's what they were looking for. Finally, one of them merged behind the other, so I took off ahead.
They caught up to me at the stoplight at Flood and Robinson. I was going straight and they were turning left, so one was sitting next to me. We had been sitting for a while when I realized the one next to me was honking and looking my way. I rolled down my window, and he stuck his head out of his, almost to the point of getting out of his truck, saying "You got a problem?" He didn't look particularly tough, and I wasn't scared. But for some reason, I instinctively said, "No," and by then the light was green, so I moved on. But I wish I had handled it differently. Maybe say, "Get outta here," and continue on my way. Or just not answer at all and go. But I'm pretty restless tonight with this going through my mind over and over.
MON - 11.10.03 - 11:40 PM
In all my frustration, I forgot a joyous bit of news. Congratulations to Angel Berroa, your 2003 American League Rookie of the Year! It was a hell of a year for the Royals, and watching young guys like Angel (pronounced Ahn-hell) light up the field made the future look even better.
TUE - 11.11.03 - 10:35 PM
Happy Veterans Day, and thank you to all those who have served our country in battle, though I doubt any of them are reading this. It's a noble and courageous sacrifice that I am ever grateful for.
Put your hands together for a new Tuesday installment here at The Dosage: 5 Random Songs from My Winamp Playlist! Each Tuesday, I'll set Winamp on shuffle and let it bring up whatever five songs it chooses. Pointless? Well, isn't this whole site, really?
Led Zeppelin - Kashmir
Tenacious D - Jesus Ranch
Fastball - Are You Ready for the Fallout?
Lazlo Bane - Midday Train
Ben Folds Five - Chopsticks (Live)
By my count, I've had to restart my computer 7 times today. If I don't update much at some point in the next week or two, it'll be because this piece of shit is in the shop.
THU - 11.13.03 - 2:51 AM
At the moment, I'm trying to keep myself from starting an assignment due at 11:00 this morning. While I'm at it, I wanted to extend more congratulations, this time to Tony Pena, the 2003 American League Manager of the Year. Tony won in a landslide, as he should have. Hell, it's outrageous that he didn't win unanimously. But anyway, the Royals' ludicrous turnaround this year would never have happened without him at the reins, and I owe him most of the joy I experienced over the summer months.
I'm hitting another one of those points where I'm confused or unsure of just about everything. This happens once every few weeks or so; it'll pass before too long. And really, it makes me think about everything I'm going through at the moment, so I suppose it's good for me in some way. Whatever.
THU - 11.13.03 - 11:40 PM
I've decided that I really enjoy cold, rainy days, popular opinion be damned. Anyway, interesting anecdote from today's meanderings. I went by Wal-Mart to pick up a few items, with the total coming to $19.74. Later on, I go by CD Warehouse, where my charges come to $19.73. However, the freakish pattern was broken when I spent a mere $12.28 at Blockbuster.
I called both Dell and the company that makes my wireless internet card this evening, and even after over half an hour with each, neither one could help me out much on the problems plaguing my scrap pile. I'll probably have to take it in somewhere here in the next few days. I can't convey in words the frustration and bitter rage I feel dealing with this computer on a daily basis.
FRI - 11.14.03 - 1:21 PM
Correction: I enjoy cold, rainy days when I don't have to walk around in them. I had to drive to several clinics around the city at work this morning to track down some medical records, and while I enjoy the vibe of these kind of days, I don't like walking through parking lots in a freezing wind while rain pelts at me.
SUN - 11.16.03 - 3:26 PM
What a gorgeous day. What a gorgeous, stomach-churning, dark day.
After the game, I went to my room to lie down for a while. I had my window open and just kind of looked around at the street. It was so quiet I could hear the phone ringing in one of the neighbors' houses. I looked at the stunningly perfect blue sky and my mind started calming. I saw the wind softly rustling through the fiery orange bush five feet from my eyes.
And that made me think of the Bengals. And Rudi Johnson running over our defense like we were, well, the Bengals. And Chad Johnson and his fucking punk-ass guarantee. Who the fuck are you? What do you know about winning? Now because of the "any given Sunday" factor in the modern NFL, his seemingly justified ego will blow way out of proportion. The football gods WILL punish him. I guarantee it. And I think of Bob Griese and the rest of the '72 Dolphins popping their fucking champagne. And I just want to throw up.
Next up is the raiders. I'm fucking pissed off, and I hope the Chiefs are too. We're going to take it out on our most hated rivals, at Arrowhead, Sunday November 23 at 3:15 pm. We're not undefeated anymore, but we're still the best team in the NFL.
SUN - 11.16.03 - 11:58 PM
The national reaction to the Chiefs' first loss is both sickening and encouraging for me. It's obvious everyone was licking their chops, waiting for the chance to jump all over them when they finally lost, which honestly, I think everyone (even me, despite my hopes) knew would happen eventually. Firstly, this shows a distinct lack of respect for my boys in red. It pisses me off, but at the same time, it worried me when they got so much coverage while still undefeated. Everyone will count them out now and jump on the Titans or Colts bandwagon, and that's great. Let 'em. The hyped-up team rarely is the one that takes the prize. I know I sounded frighteningly bitter this afternoon. I was. But a few hours have cooled me off, and now I think I'm ready to move on. Hopefully this will be a wake up call for the Chiefs. Don't let your guard down, boys.
One thing that helped cool me off was Fox's new show "Arrested Development." I can't remember laughing so much at a TV show before. Is it a threat to Scrubs as my favorite show? Doubtful. AD is hilarious, but that's about it. One of the reasons Scrubs is so appealing is that it's side-splitting, but has another side to it, the side that makes you think or tugs on the ol' heart strings.
WED - 11.19.03 - 12:37 PM
Yes, I'm still here...unfortunately, my computer is not. It appeared things had returned to normalcy on Sunday, but after I got home from class Monday night, things were worse than ever. At this point, my laptop won't connect to the internet at all. I'm hoping to have it in the shop today or tomorrow, so until then, the updates will be sporadic at best. I'll post the new weekly stuff as soon as I'm back up and running.
SAT - 11.29.03 - 4:03 PM
I'd like to reiterate the fact that The Dosage is, in fact, still alive, just dormant. It appears my wireless internet problems are bigger than I thought, but I now know the direction I need to take to correct them. Best case scenario: I'm back online by midweek. Worst case: another two or three weeks, but that's rather unlikely.
Don't worry. I haven't had all that much to talk about anyway.
TUE - 12.2.03 - 1:49 AM
So just for the hell of it last night, I decide to plug the wireless card back into my computer, and lo and behold...it works! It remains to be seen just how long this will last, but until that time, the site's back in full force.
It's Tuesday, and here at The Dosage that can only mean one thing: 5 Random Songs from my Winamp Playlist!
The Ataris - Boys of Summer
Built to Spill - Carry the Zero
Radiohead - Paranoid Android
George Gershwin - Rhapsody in Blue
Junior Senior - Move Your Feet
Over the last two days, I've moved some new stuff in my room and hung up some pictures...I really like the way it looks. Now I just need some blinds so that the whole neighborhood doesn't have to watch me change clothes.
WED - 12.3.03 - 12:34 PM
So much for that. Once again, I can't stay connected on my laptop for more than 10 seconds, so until further notice, the site is once again dormant. *Angry muttering*
THU - 12.4.03 - 12:11 AM
I don't get it either. Expect intermittent updates until I get this problem solved once and for all. Until then, rejoice in some new weekly content (finally)!
THU - 12.26.03 - 12:11 AM
So, 3 weeks...sorry about that. Still no progress on the personal internet connection front. I'll start taking serious steps to get this fixed soon.
Merry Christmas to one and all, or Happy Holidays for you Christ-hating heathens (I'm kidding). It was good for me; here's what I received (hoping I remember everything):
Norelco razor
The Flaming Lips, "Zaireeka"*
George Brett autographed hat
Shave kit
Driving gloves
Hallowed Ground calendar (it's ballparks)
Royals jersey history plaque
I think that's it. I may remember something else later. This was a nice, quiet Christmas at home with the family, just the way I like 'em.
*For those of you who don't know about Zaireeka (which I'm guessing covers just about everybody), it's 4 CDs meant to be played at once. And it ain't poppy, commercial-friendly stuff, either; it's experimental as hell. I need to listen to it some more to form an opinion, but at the very least, it's an awesome sonic experience.
For those wanting to know what's been going on in my life since I last updated, the answer is: not much. I completed my first semester at Rose State and got all A's without much trouble. Next semester will probably be even easier. But I guess we'll have to wait and see.
I'll get the weekly stuff updated sometime...I really don't know when. I'll be in Tulsa over the weekend for a wedding, and after that I'll have to see where life takes me. Or something.
WED - 12.31.03 - 7:15 PM
Ladies and gents, I give you...a bunch of questions about 2003 that I'm doing because I'm not imaginative enough to come up something myself. Enjoy!
1. What did you do in 2003 that you'd never done before?
Marched on the field at Pro Player Stadium, crafted a successful final architecture project, went to a rock concert (stop laughing), drove on my own to Kansas City and back (twice), attended a wedding of people I consider more or less my peers.
2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
Didn't make any that I remember. Probably not.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
I don't believe so.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Happily, no.
5. What countries did you visit?
I still have yet to leave U.S. borders in my life.
6. What would you like to have in 2004 that you lacked in 2003?
A girl.
7. What date from 2003 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
January 17. It was the night I became 100% convinced of the existence, presence, and love of God.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Proving that I could get A's in college. (Hell, making B's would have been a big step, even if the classes were remarkably easier this fall.)
9. What was your biggest failure?
A series of collective failures that resulted in my leaving USC.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I think I developed some allergies in LA. I was different degrees of sick from about January to May.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
Tickets to Orange Peel.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
American troops.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
W.'s administration.
14. Where did most of your money go?
CDs. I bought or received as gifts 32 this year.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
The Kansas City Royals' first pennant race in over 10 years and the Chiefs' 9-0 start.
16. What song(s) will always remind you of 2003?
Fountains of Wayne's Welcome Interstate Managers album will forever be linked with summer '03 for me. "Emaline" and "Army" from Ben Folds Live. Counting Crows' "Chelsea." The USC TMB's Meatbag Medley. Imagine being a freshman and having your own song that the entire band chants during parades.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
i. happier or sadder? Happier. Don't think I could be sadder.
ii. thinner or fatter? 5-10 pounds fatter.
iii. richer or poorer? Richer. Slightly.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Socializing.
19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Sleeping. Would have left more time for socializing.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I've spent it quietly at home with the family.
22. Did you fall in love in 2003?
I realized my love for many things, but I didn't "fall in love" in this sense.
23. How many one-night stands?
There's still just enough time for one, honey...
24. What was your favorite TV program?
Scrubs, even though NBC continues to treat it like a red-headed stepchild.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
Whoever joined the Raiders before the season started.
26. What was the best book you read?
Ball Four by Jim Bouton.
27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
It's a tie between Blackalicious and Jellyfish.
28. What did you want and get?
A competetive baseball team. An Orange Bowl rout. A second (maybe third?) chance.
30. What was your favorite film of this year?
Matrix Revolutions, though the pool was admittedly pretty small this year. I could probably count the times I went to the theaters on my hands.
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Work, class, bible study...that was about it. I had a nice dinner with my family the Sunday before. This was my 20th birthday.
32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Kicking ass at USC in the spring, the Royals going all the way, getting to a couple girls earlier.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2003?
I'm moving ever closer to the point where I can wear what I want without caring what people will think of it. And I like to think it's becoming a little more classy, too.
34. What kept you sane?
That which lies ahead. My future in general.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Tony Pena. In an extremely heterosexual way.
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
War.
37. Who did you miss?
There were several people I consider my friends who I didn't see the entire year.
38. Who was the best new person you met?
The people in my spring architecture studio section and the university group at First Pres in Norman.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2003:
Life's gonna suck sometimes, but you have to hold out hope for better things. Even if they don't come, your attitude will make it easier.
40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
Soon, we'll be lying in our beds
And new dreams will fill our heads
And the old ones will be ended
Hope we'll forget about this place
Let it go without a trace
Wipe the teardrops from our faces
What a year for a new year
-What a Year for a New Year, Dan Wilson.
I'm ready to move forward. Let's do this.
SUN - 1.4.04 - 6:37 PM
The Sugar Bowl tonight is a national championship game. A, not the. Oklahoma and LSU are two outstanding football teams, and whoever wins the game will be worthy of the title. But USC's romp over Michigan in the Rose Bowl solidified their claim as well. I predict OU will beat LSU, and it won't be particularly close. Maybe not a manhandling like SC put on the Wolverines, but the Sooners will win. I've got plenty more to say on this topic as well as the Chiefs, but I'll hold off until after the game.
TUE - 1.6.04 - 9:52 PM
Well. So much for my prediction; I figured OU would at least show up to the stadium. I still think they're a better team than LSU. It was a horribly sloppy game for both teams, penalties and turnovers all over the place. LSU was playing at about 85% while OU was somewhere around 50-60%. And with it being basically a home game for the Tigers, and with the Sooners' (admittedly overrated) offense mailing it in, I'd say that OU would win any other night.
But it really doesn't matter, because USC would walk over either one of them. I believe that at a neutral site, USC would beat LSU 24-7 and OU 27-13, and they'd make it look easy.
Which brings me to the rant. From the time the final BCS standings were announced up until about a week before the Sugar Bowl, I didn't hear a single OU fan mention LSU. All they talked about was USC's schedule this and USC's talent that and USC doesn't belong with OU and LSU and "They lost to Cal!!!!" News flash: Cal beat Virginia Tech in their bowl, who if you remember, walloped Miami. Washington State knocked off "#5" Texas. Nobody east of the Rockies knows anything about the Pac-10, and it's annoying when they think they do.
And at what point did USC bitch about not being in the Sugar Bowl? Yeah, the national media did, but the Trojans couldn't have been happier with the way things worked out. The #1 goal of the USC football team every year is to win the Rose Bowl. Not only did they do that, but they won a national championship in a year when that wasn't supposed to happen. Trust me, SC could care less about not being in the BCS top two.
So in summation, fuck you. Worry about the team you'll actually be playing rather than spending your time discrediting the team that everyone else knew belonged.
I know I overreacted there. But I really needed to get that off my chest.
On to the Chiefs. I'm not confident at all about their chances this week. In fact, I don't think they're going to win. They might be able to trade scores with the Colts for a while, but even with the Arrowhead crowd behind them, that god-awful excuse for a defense isn't going to contain Peyton, Edge, and Marvin all night. 38-28 Colts. I hope to God that I'm wrong.
On a lighter note, I am absolutely stoked about the 2004 Royals. Today they signed Juan freakin' Gonzalez to a deal. In this offseason, they have addressed the following issues:
Problem: Raul Ibanez leaves
Answer: Juan Gonzalez comes in
Problem: The bullpen sucked
Answer: They kept the decent guys and got Scott Sullivan
Problem: Too many young starting pitchers
Answer: Resigned Brian Anderson
Problem: Shitty bench
Answer: Signed Matt Stairs, Tony Graffanino, and Kelly Stinnett
I CANNOT WAIT FOR BASEBALL SEASON!!
TUE - 1.13.04 - 3:14 PM
Today it was a warm 50 degrees outside and the smell of rain hung in the air and the Chiefs just ruined another season and the Royals have been signing players all winter and my baby blue visor dangles from my rear view mirror and we were recently talking about going to Spring Training again this year and somebody call the doctor cuz I have BASEBALL FEVER.
SUN - 1.18.04 - 2:44 PM
Well, I finally broke down and bought a new wireless card, and so far it's working like a charm. Here's hoping. You've probably noticed the format change; I think it gives me a little more space. Everything seemed kind of crammed in before, especially the main content frame.
I know I've been posting mostly about sports lately. I've got more to talk about now, but I'll save that for another time. And the weekly content will definitely be changed soon. Now that I've got a constant connection, hopefully it will actually be weekly again.
SUN - 1.18.04 - 11:18 PM
I've noticed something else about my recent postings, going back over a month...they're rather impersonal. I kind of skimmed through the archives tonight, and I really enjoyed reading about my own personal hell that was Last Year. I'll try and recreate the "what's going on" vibe here in the near future, if for no one other than myself.
MON - 1.19.04 - 9:27 PM
In honor of the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, I'd like to simply say this:
Racism, bigotry, stereotyping, profiling, and prejudice all suck. Hard.
That's my deep thought for the day. And in all seriousness, they do. I can't fathom life during the civil rights movement and I can't make it right, but what I can do is treat everyone like they deserve to be treated.
And I'm moving the 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist! feature to Mondays for reasons I will take to the grave. So don't ask, you nosy sonuvabitch.
Jellyfish - Calling Sarah
Men at Work - Overkill
The Flaming Lips - What a Wonderful World
School of Fish - Three Strange Days
Howie Day - She Says
I have nothing more to say at this time that is either relevant or true.
THU - 1.22.04 - 9:10 PM
It's still early in 2003, but I've already had three things happen to me that have absolutely made my year.
One, during the first weekend of January, I managed to find a veritable treasure trove of rare Ben Folds/BF Five audio and video. It was nothing short of exhilirating (unfortunately, the site has since been shut down).
The second occurred one Sunday at First Pres in Norman. There was a special guest from the university performing a song; it was a contemporary piece sung by a big soulful black woman. Before she began, she gave a short intro about herself and the organization she was representing, and at the end, gave an "Amen?" In the big sanctuary full of suddenly unsure Presbyterians, there was a half second of uncomfortable silence before about a quarter of those in attendance muttered a quick "Amen." as if they were finishing a prayer. I can't quite capture here the pricelessness of the moment.
I just discovered the third today: the Howard Dean screech speech remix. This is one of the funniest things I've ever heard. Ever.
FRI - 1.23.04 - 9:54 PM
Friday Five returns.
At this moment, what is your favorite...
1. ...song?
For this moment, I'd have to say Barenaked Ladies' "Life in a Nutshell." I'm on a BNL kick right now.
2. ...food?
Oatmeal Creme Pies.
3. ...tv show?
Duuuhh.
4. ...scent?
When it's really cold outside and you step out and smell the moisture, like it's about to snow.
5. ...quote?
"Yeeeaaagghhh!!!" Thank you, Howard Dean, for brightening my life.
Just fyi, these are all "at the moment" favorites. My all-time favorites would be different. Except TV show, of course.
MON - 1.26.04 - 7:39 PM
WHEREAS, it is difficult to find a suitable picture every few days,
WHEREAS, it is difficult to find a suitable quote every few days,
I, webmaster, hereby decree that the area of the site heretofore known as the "weekly content" shall from this day forth be the "bimonthly content."
I think I'm really gonna like Mondays, Wednesdays, and every other Friday. I have to get up and drive to Rose at an ungodly hour, but I get home at lunch time, and then I can take a nice long nap and still have most of the day in front of me. That's a routine I can get into.
5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
Mr. Bungle - Squeeze Me Macaroni
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Otherside
The Clash - London Calling
Built to Spill - Strange
Jump Little Children - Cathedrals
WED - 1.28.04 - 10:24 PM
My life is painfully uneventful. It's the stuff that doesn't happen that I really notice. It's the things I don't do that hurt the most.
THU - 1.29.04 - 12:06 PM
The North Canadian River around downtown has been really low lately, which is weird because we've been getting a lot of precip this month. I wonder what's up...
I finished reading Samuel Shem's The House of God last night. While it doesn't have much else to compete with, I'd say that it is quite easily my favorite book. It's about a doctor's year of internship and everything that comes with it. It runs the gamut of human emotions and makes the transitions between them with ease. It was the inspiration for the first season of Scrubs, which is how I find out about it.
So basically, what I'm trying to say is, if you're looking for something to read (or even if you're not), The House of God has my full-fledged recommendation. You won't regret it.
FRI - 1.30.04 - 6:07 PM
FF
You have just won one million dollars:
1. Who do you call first?
Nobody. Word spreads fast, people will come to me.
2. What is the first thing you buy for yourself?
The first thing I'd do would be to allocate enough for school.
3. What is the first thing you buy for someone else?
Probably my sister's schooling.
4. Do you give any away? If yes, to whom?
Not to sound like a cold, inconsiderate miser, but honestly, I don't think I would.
5. Do you invest any? If so, how?
Savings account, I guess.
Things may be getting interesting with the wireless card again soon. It's running smooth now, but I've had some small problems lately. We'll see.
The Outkast double album freaking kicks. Get it.
SUN - 2.1.04 - 7:19 PM
A few thoughts from the first half of the Super Bowl:
About 2 seconds before the opening kickoff, I predicted a 16-9 Patriots victory. They lead 14-10 at the half, so uh...so much for that.
Until there was 3 minutes left in the first half, the game could best be described as BOOOOORIIING. I drifted in and out of sleep for most of the first quarter.
Jake Delhomme was pretty awful for most of the half, but he impressed the hell out of me on that 95-yard drive. I was seriously doubting his big game ability. And what a catch by Steve Smith on that touchdown.
Phil Simms is a douche bag. Is this really the best team they could get in the booth? The state of modern sportscasting is sad, my friends.
I've been quite disappointed with the commercials. I missed several because of the aforementioned drifting, but the only one I've really liked so far is the Chevy one where all the kids have soap in their mouths. The rest are really reaching.
That's all for now. I may or may not post more afterwards.
SUN - 2.1.04 - 7:31 PM
OK, I've got more.
Just before the halftime show started, it was mentioned that it was being sponsored by MTV. I immediately thought, "Dear God."
Then Jessica Simpson kicked it off with a "Houston!! Choose to paaaaarrtyyyy!" I chose to sit speechless.
I don't understand why they always cut the performers' songs off in the middle. Is it so they can cram in more lip-synching rich talentless pieces of crap? Sounds about right.
Not only did they bring in acts that most people with decent taste in music would despise, but they were singing songs that were several years old. WTF?
Justin Timberlake is currently grinding on Janet Jackson, and I'm wondering why I continue to subject myself to this year after year.
The pregame ceremony was largely unimpressive. The astronaut thing was all right, and warranted, but they did a pretty cheesy job with it, I thought. But Beyonce's performance of the national anthem was outstanding. It sounded great, and I'll be damned if she wasn't actually singing. You go, girl.
SUN - 2.1.04 - 10:03 PM
The last four minutes or so of the game were pretty good. It ended up being a pretty decent Super Bowl. But even when they were trading scores at the beginning of the 4th quarter, I just couldn't get into it. Most of the second half was just as boring as most of the first half, even though there was stuff going on in the second. Maybe it was a lack of personal interest.
Jim Nantz said he thought it was the best Super Bowl ever. What a load of crap. The ones two and four years ago (XXXVI and XXXIV) were both better than this one. And then there was Phil Simms whipping out the "team of destiny" line...again, modern sportscasting is in a sad state.
The Matrix-style cameras are interesting, but I don't think the technology is quite there yet. Let's wait a little while longer, fellas.
Tom Brady was not the MVP. I say give it to New England's O-line. Who expected the Pats to have any kind of running game against Carolina's front four? Nobody, that's who. My buddy Phil actually made a very astute observation on that subject. And Brady wasn't sacked all night, either. Five MVPs in this game.
I have more for tomorrow, including commercial reviews.
MON - 2.2.04 - 11:53 PM
Sorry, connection problems today. I'll post like I promised, only tomorrow instead of today.
TUE - 2.3.04 - 11:41 PM
Okay, this is starting to reach the territory of an out-and-out lie. Once again, I won't be posting the stuff I promised on Sunday. I have two tests and a paper due tomorrow, so I probably won't be sleeping much, let alone updating a silly web page. Wednesday's not looking real bright either. Maybe Thursday, maybe Friday, hell, I don't know. Worst case scenario, I'll have it up by the weekend. No joke.
FRI - 2.6.04 - 12:53 AM
Much to talk about tonight. I'll continue to hold off on my Super Bowl commercial critiques, but suffice it to say for now that most of them sucked. I'll probably post that stuff on Saturday.
Yesterday went ok; I didn't fall asleep behind the wheel, I didn't slip on any ice or slush, and the school stuff went well. I slept for a couple hours in the afternoon and went to Bible study, then couldn't sleep when I actually went to bed. Go figure.
Everything comes in fives tonight. First, five random tidbits from the past few days.
Earlier tonight, I was making use of our indoor plumbing (as I tend to do from time to time), and when I glanced down I realized that I had been wearing my underwear backwards the entire day.
I think the heater vent in my room is on a direct pipeline to hell. One night when temperatures dipped into the lower 20s, I had my window open and slept on top of my covers with just a shirt and shorts on, and woke up uncomfortably hot.
The other day someone gave me a compliment on my handwriting. This is only the second time in my life this has happened. And yes, I keep track. It's not real difficult.
One morning this week it was so cold that not only did my car door freeze shut, but the lock froze too. I had to twist vainly for about 2 minutes until it finally broke free.
Ballparks of Baseball has posted my shot of Kauffman Stadium's fountains as its Picture of the Week. I'm quite proud.
And now, since I didn't have the chance to post on Monday, here's 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
Ben Folds Five - Quami Broke A String (Live)
Barenaked Ladies - She's On Time
Howie Day - Ghost
David Gray - Please Forgive Me
Rhett Miller - Come Around
And finally, the Friday Five.
1. What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
I don't know...in my eyes, any time I can get up and talk in front of a crowd without making an ass of myself is a pretty nice accomplishment.
2. What one thing would you like to try that your mother/friend/significant other would never approve of?
Mushrooms, definitely. *grin*
3. On a scale of 1-10, what's your risk factor? (1=never take risks, 10=it's a lifestyle)
3
4. What's the best thing that's ever happened to you as a result of being bold/risky?
Probably conversations where I chose to speak up and gained a friend in the process, and stuff like that. Yes, people, this is me; these are my battles.
5. ... and what's the worst?
All those times I decide to speak up and am met with a thud of silence.
WED - 2.11.04 - 12:48 AM
Well, I don't see much point in going through the commercials, because a) you probably don't remember them, and b) there weren't many worth mentioning. But real quickly, of the ones I saw, my favorite was the one where the players from teams that had lost in the playoffs were singing "Tomorrow." Really funny, plus it had some Chiefs. Too much Bud Light, and I don't remember laughing at any of them. Mach 3 wins the award for worst though, with that bullcrap about how shaving with their razor is like having an "angel by your side." Nice job, dumbasses.
I'm okay with the Grammys. I'm glad Outkast won for Rap Album and Album of the Year, because they deserved it, at least compared to the other nominees. And I recognized a couple people from the Trojan band during Hey Ya. Andre 3000's acceptance speech was classic. I don't remember much of it, but you can find it online somewhere.
This semester is turning out to be a little more work than I had hoped for. Oh well. I guess it'll help me get geared up for university work again.
Since I missed Monday (again), here's 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
Squeeze - Hourglass
Nerf Herder - Mr. Blue Sky
Aquagen - Party Alarm
Rage Against the Machine - Renegades of Funk
Ben Folds Five - Mitchell Lane
WED - 2.11.04 - 3:12 AM
I added a section of the liner notes from Ben Folds Five's Whatever and Ever Amen album because I think they're really cool and provide further insight into the weird, gifted mind of Ben Folds.
I had some virus trouble with instant messenger this evening. But I ended up getting to talk to a lot of friends I hadn't spoken with in a while because they got the virus link from my screen name.
I also wanted to explain the new section in the bimonthly content. My God Is Better Than Yours is a place where I shine the spotlight on stupid religious fanaticism. I make no discrimination between faiths; I'm sure all the major ones will get their fair share of time here. Thank you, and good night.
SUN - 2.15.04 - 11:50 PM
I changed the last section of the bimonthly content again because I can't find a whole lot of specific examples of religious fanaticism. So now it's just good quotes about religion and/or the religious.
I haven't updated recently because I've been having connection problems. Every now and then, my card decides not to pick up a signal for hours or days at a time, but then it starts working again. There's really not much I can do about it.
Since Friday was included in the not picking up of a signal, here's the Friday Five.
1. Are you superstitious?
Yes, though some of it could probably be attributed to obsessive-compulsion.
2. What extremes have you heard of someone going to in the name of superstition?
If you see religion as superstition then you've got a truckload of answers right there...I don't hear a lot of stories about the superstitious.
3. Believer or not, what's your favorite superstition?
The whole rabbit's foot thing. It must have taken a desperate, horribly unlucky man rummaging through a dirty alley to say "Maybe this severed animal part will bring the luck I've been searcing for!"
4. Do you believe in luck? If yes, do you have a lucky number/article of clothing/ritual?
Yes, but almost exclusively with sports. I believe in lucky spots on the couch while watching games. I believe that articles of clothing or songs or varieties of food (almost anything, really) can be lucky or unlucky at any given time during a season or game. Winning streaks are particularly susceptible to such phenomena. Yuck it up if you want, but I'm not laughing.
5. Do you believe in astrology? Why or why not?
No. One, because I'm a man. Two, because...well...it just doesn't make any sense to me.
MON - 2.16.04 - 12:48 AM
AHHH-HAHAHAHAHAHA!
(hint: read the thread title)
***EDIT: This is a pretty insensitive comment, and is funny in an "I can't believe I'm laughing at this" kind of way.
MON - 2.16.04 - 7:04 PM
The link below doesn't work anymore, but here's a synopsis:
Dear Osama,
The next plane you hijack should the be the Yankees' team charter.
Sincerely,
Baseball fans everywhere
Not word for word, but that's the gist.
Today I was driving down Air Depot in M-dub when I noticed that Wherehouse Music was going out of business. That can mean only one thing: cheap music. Suddenly dazed with euphoria, I pulled in and picked up four CDs at an average of less than nine bucks per. I'm pretty happy.
There was something in the air (literally) around downtown this afternoon, creating a fiery sunset that, with the help of thin clouds covering the sun, cast a red glow on everything. Creepy more than anything else, really.
One day I'll stop putting up pictures of my architecture work in the Picture This section. I just haven't had time to go through some decent photos, and I've got these projects on the computer.
You know how every now and then you'll get stuck on a song and can't stop listening to it because it's so unbelievably good? Mine for right now is Electric Light Orchestra's "Mr. Blue Sky."
Monday = 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
Nickel Creek - Spit on a Stranger
Fatboy Slim - Praise You
Elliott Smith - Say Yes
The Flaming Lips - She Don't Use Jelly
Lion - The Transformers
TUE - 2.17.04 - 9:31 PM
I decided to go back to Wherehouse tonight and ended up getting four more albums, but this time at just over three dollars each. They close for good on Monday, so I think I'll hang around that night and see if they start giving anything away.
I got to do a lot of driving around and errand-running at work today, which always makes for a good day. And of course, another excellent episode of Scrubs aired tonight. The show's hit a groove lately.
I was thinking about the last few months and realized that while not much of anything has happened, nothing really bad has happened either. I've had those momentary setbacks everyone has in their day-to-day life, but the good has been outweighing the not-so-good. It's just hard to recognize that when it feels like nothing you do until fall will make in any difference whatsoever.
THU - 2.19.04 - 8:45 PM
I was wondering earlier today...do pro-lifers celebrate conceptiondays as well as birthdays?
Another slow day. The reason I don't often post what goes on is because nothing really does. Ever. But tomorrow's a big day. I'll be dressing up for the occasion. I'll make the announcement tomorrow.
SAT - 2.21.04 - 1:10 AM
(Noting the time...it's still essentially Friday)
Today was the beginning of Royals Baseball, 2004 Edition. The pitchers and catchers reported to camp and did some workouts today. The first spring training game is March 4 (just under two weeks).
All I can say is...FINALLY.
So of course I wore a jersey to work today. I had a big dinner in Bricktown with my family to celebrate my sister's apparently successful music audition at a school, and I think that made me tired, because I fell asleep for a couple hours this evening. Party Animal. Now some Friday Five.
When was the last time you...
1. ...went to the doctor?
Hmm, it's been a while. Year and a half, at least.
2. ...went to the dentist?
About 7 months I think.
3. ...filled your gas tank?
Tuesday.
4. ...got enough sleep?
Last weekend.
5. ...backed up your computer?
Like copied all my files somewhere else? Never.
MON - 2.23.04 - 9:37 PM
I went up to Wherehouse Music tonight, as it was their last night of business, but unfortunately they didn't give anything away. I did buy three more CDs though, bringing the total to 11 CDs for just under $70. This has been a blessed event. Now back to scouring used bins for something worth purchasing.
In other personal music news, I recently obtained a bootleg mp3 copy of Ben Folds' performance at Orange Peel last September, cuz I just got connections like that. It's so awesome; I can even hear myself yelling at one point. I'm hoping to track down Better Than Ezra's and Barenaked Ladies' sets as well.
5RSFMWP!
Pavement - Here
Scorpions - Rock You Like A Hurricane
The Shins - So Says I
The Bens - Just Pretend
Pat Benatar - Heartbreaker
TUE - 2.24.04 - 11:30 PM
After watching Scrubs tonight, the only word I can use to describe it is Wow. This was easily the best episode in over a year...I'd probably put it in my Top 3 of all time. It had a Sixth Sense sort of ending that was borderline depressing. But man, I just can't get over how good it was.
My back was kind of sore in my Calculus class tonight, and it's gotten a little worse. At times, it's been excruciating. I'll sleep on it and see if it's better in the morning.
I watched Confessions of a Dangerous Mind over the weekend, the George Clooney-directed, Charlie Kaufman-written movie about game show host/CIA assassin Chuck Barris. It was darkly funny and kind of weird...I'm not entirely sure what I thought of it. But it wouldn't be a waste of a few bucks to rent it.
I've decided to give up pop/soda/coke/whatever you prefer to call it for Lent. I drink way too much of it, so maybe this will help wean me off a little bit.
FRI - 2.27.04 - 1:39 AM
I took the which Calvin and Hobbes character are you? quiz and I'm Hobbes. So, um, there's that.
My back's been fluctuating between fine and achy since Tuesday night. I don't know...I'll wait a little longer and see how it plays out.
I'm definitely going to see The Passion of The Christ sometime soon. I'm a little apprehensive about all the violence, but I think it's something I probably need to see.
I've opened up contact with OU about transferring in the fall. I've got my application mostly filled out, just short of transcripts and I'm going to talk to some people this afternoon.
I'm always thinking of stuff to write about here when I'm out and about, but I can never remember them when I'm ready to update. Whatever. No new Friday Five this week, so here's an old one I never did.
1. What food do you like that most people hate?
I guess tuna. Most people I know don't like that.
2. What food do you hate that most people love?
Potatoes, mashed or baked.
3. What famous person, whom many people may find attractive, is most unappealing to you?
Jessica Alba. Not that I find her repulsive or anything, I just don't understand what the big deal is. No, wait. Gwen Stefani. Yecch.
4. What famous person, whom many people may find unappealing, do you find
attractive?
Umm...I can't think of anyone at the moment.
5. What popular trend baffles you?
Trucker hats.
MON - 3.1.04 - 2:05 AM
Coming to you live from another late night of school work. This is becoming tiring in more ways than one.
I watched Magnolia this weekend. It was really good, but I'll have to see it again sometime to really appreciate it, I think.
My posts have become much more choppy with a lot of those double-spaced divisions lately. I guess my subconscious is drifting into random excretion of ideas, which seems fitting based on my day-to-day life. It's all very reactionary. I can't wait for Spring Break.
5RSFMWP!
Joe Cocker - You Are So Beautiful
Ludwig Van Beethoven - Moonlight Sonata
Randy Newman - I Miss You
Guster - Perfect
Basement Jaxx - Where's Your Head At?
WED - 3.3.04 - 3:40 PM
This has been one of my best days in a long time. I got about 6 hours of sleep, which ain't too bad, and the main reason for that is that I didn't have any homework at all. Oh yeah.
My classes went well, and of course I didn't have to turn anything in, which helped that. We're working on a pretty big research paper in Comp 2 and I think I've got a good leg up on it based on the peer feedback I'm getting.
On the way back to Norman it was raining softly but steadily, and there was pretty thick fog. I couldn't see the skyscrapers downtown from the I-35/I-40 interchange, which is less than a mile away. Not even outlines or vague shadows or anything...just white nothing. With all the rain we've gotten in the last 18 hours or so, spring is starting to show itself. It's a little warmer out lately, and the grass is starting to turn green.
Then I got home, flipped on the TV and instinctively punched in ESPN.
Baseball is back on TV.
I watched the entire game between the Dodgers and Mets, which I normally would have no interest in. I kind of drifted in and out of sleep throughout, which just made the whole day all the better. And it's only 3:30. This is awesome.
After talking to both OU and Rose, it looks like I'm a pretty sure thing for transferring in the fall. Rose has my GPA at 2.364, up from 1.75 before last semester. OU accepts any transfers with GPAs of at least 2.5. Things are looking good.
FRI - 3.5.04 - 10:09 PM
Friday means the Five.
What was...
1. ...your first grade teacher's name?
Mrs. McAfee. She was one of my favorites, and I one of hers.
2. ...your favorite Saturday morning cartoon?
Ghostbusters was the first one I was real big into.
3. ...the name of your very first best friend?
Wesley Stevenson. We kind of drifted apart after elementary school and lost contact completely after I moved to Oklahoma. But I sent him a graduation announcement and he sent a nice card back.
4. ...your favorite breakfast cereal?
I think Crunch Berries held the title for the longest, but I've always been a big fan of many cereals.
5. ...your favorite thing to do after school?
I don't remember anymore. Probably TV.
SUN - 3.7.04 - 2:06 AM
Good weekend for movies for me. I rented The Royal Tenenbaums and Lost in Translation, both of which were excellent. I also watched Groundhog Day on HBO. It was a Billy Murray kind of weekend.
They say that Miroslav Satan of the Buffalo Sabres is trade bait. Please, oh please let him go to New Jersey. (They're the Devils, for those of you not well-versed in the National Hockey League. GET IT?!)
The word "twist" should be banned from the entertainment lexicon. After the first Joe Millionaire hyped up its ending by announcing a twist, NBC (in an apparent attempt to spite Fox) began to use it in ads for EVERY SINGLE REALITY SHOW ON THEIR NETWORK. Now it's creeping into movies as well. Marketers, I beg of you: stop using the word "twist." We are tired of it.
SUN - 3.7.04 - 10:46 PM
I've been sick all weekend. It hasn't rendered me useless or anything, but it's not much fun either. Scratchy throat, sore back (well, sore everything really), stuffed up nose. Today was a little better than yesterday. Which is good, because I'll be up late again doing school work.
Today was a good day, and it was just gorgeous outside. Other than the sick thing, I've been feeling pretty good lately. I wish it were summer, though. I don't really know why.
[Comment]
FRI - 3.12.04 - 4:21 PM
Hmm, I thought I had posted something on Monday explaining my absence. Sorry about that.
Anyway, a combination of sickness and mountains upon mountains of work kept me away from The Dosage this week. The worst of it was over Wednesday, but at that point I was nursing my way back to health with Benadryl, so I wasn't totally conscious the whole time. But I'm all better now and ready for friggin' Spring Break.
I cannot exaggerate how bad Sunday night-Wednesday morning was. I wrote two different drafts of a sizable paper, prepared a presentation for that paper, studied for and took a Calculus test, and coughed up one my lungs, all with a nose running like it was in a 100-yard dash and the bare minimum of sleep I could afford. But it's over now, and I'm back to the previous weekend's level of feeling good.
I found out that Ben Folds will be at the University of Tulsa on April 8, which certainly aided in my recovery. I gave up on trying to go see Better Than Ezra in Fayetteville, AR over the break, so now I'm planning on getting Ben tickets as close as I can get when they go on sale.
Here's Monday's 5RSFMWP! and today's Friday Five:
Pavement - Stereo
System of a Down - Fuck The System
Ben Folds Five - Uncle Walter (Live)
Beulah - Gravity's Bringing Us Down
Jason Falkner - I Already Know
1. What was the last song you heard?
Elliott Smith - Say Yes
2. What were the last two movies you saw?
The Royal Tenenbaums and Lost in Translation
3. What were the last three things you purchased?
Food products
4. What four things do you need to do this weekend?
Chill out x4
5. Who are the last five people you talked to?
Lauren, Danny, Mom, Dad, Joe
[Comment]
MON - 3.15.04 - 2:55 AM
Went and saw the Blazers tonight (Sunday night) with McMichael. We hung out in Bricktown for a while afterwards and met an interesting character, who I will detail this afternoon (just wanted to get a quick update out of the way before I go to bed). Spring Break is good so far; I have done nothing of any significance and have slept in to my heart's content. I can only hope the rest of the week goes this well.
5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
The Beatles - Come Together
King Missile - Gay-Not Gay
Better Than Ezra - Cars Crash
Ben Folds - Annie Waits (Live)
Pere Ubu - Wasted
[Comment]
MON - 3.15.04 - 10:59 PM
So we're hanging out at Varsity last night, playing some pool (well, actually we were watching at that point). This black guy walks by, dressed for the clubs, only with a pair of sweatpants over one shoulder. He walks up to McMichael and talks to him softly for a minute. I figured he was asking for beer or gas money or something. After a few exchanges, McMichael says "Thanks man, I'm good," and the guy walks off. Of course, I ask what it was all about. To paraphrase McMichael:
"He asked if I liked sweatpants, then asked me to follow him to the bathroom because he had some to show me."
Later on, he came back by again, holding three one dollar bills in his hand. As he walked by, he flashed his handful at us and said something along the lines of, "Makin' that money!"
I, for one, am glad he found a buyer for his sweatpants.
[Comment]
MON - 3.15.04 - 11:16 PM
How could I forget? It's Tournament time, baby! Finally, the sports world comes out of its six week funk of absolute boredom. ESPN is worth watching again, and will be until the end of the Super Bowl.
I've made a preliminary bracket, but am going to read up on the teams and maybe make a few adjustments. For now, my Final Four are Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, Texas, and Stanford, with Texas beating Ga Tech for the title. But like I said, adjustments will be made. Just for the record, I have picked Lehigh in the play-in game tomorrow. Sometime before the tourney starts, I will post my personal bracket scoring system which I devised a couple years ago. It will rock your face.
[Comment]
WED - 3.17.04 - 2:55 AM
At what point of desperation does a company say, "Our advertising campaign needs a new direction...get me William Shatner on the phone!"?
I watched Fargo and The Specials over the last few days. Fargo was really good, and the Specials was funny but nothing, well, special. I would recommend both.
I spent some time this evening and created a tournament bracket, and yes from scratch. It is printable, but be sure to switch your printer to Landscape rather than Portrait setting. I still haven't had time to make my thorough, final picks. I guess I better do that tomorrow.
So far things aren't going too well, unfortunately. Florida A&M knocked off Lehigh in the play-in game, which swiftly ended my dreams of a perfect bracket. I also filled out a NIT bracket, and my picks went 2-for-4 today. Whatever. I'll post my scoring system tomorrow.
[Comment]
WED - 3.17.04 - 4:47 PM
Happy St. Patty's Day!
You know you're having a good break when you have to set your alarm to wake you up at 2 in the afternoon.
Here it is, my Bracket Scoring System. I explained some things I thought needed it, and included my scored 2002 bracket (which is much less embarrassing than my 2003 bracket). If you still need help with it, though, I'll be happy to answer any questions.
Also, the bracket that I posted yesterday was wrong. The 3, 6, 11, and 14 seeds were labelled wrong, but I have it fixed now. If you printed a copy before this update, you'll probably want to print a new one. That's all; now I just have to make my picks. I love March Madness!
[Comment]
THU - 3.18.04 - 12:37 AM
Okay, here are my tourney picks.
Usually I have some kind of dark horse making a nice run, but that really bit me in the ass last year when I picked Xavier for the Final Four and they lost in the second round. The fact that I have three 1 vs. 2 matchups in the Elite Eight bothers me...but a) it's too late now, and b) that's just who I pick. I'm sure it won't shake out like that, but I labored over these things for hours, and that's that. Go 'Cats.
[Comment]
FRI - 3.19.04 - 12:24 PM
FF
If you...
1. ...owned a restaurant, what kind of food would you serve?
It would be a casual place, like a cross between Boomerang Grille and T.G.I. Friday's, but we would create our own dishes. Weird combinations and the like.
2. ...owned a small store, what kind of merchandise would you sell?
Kitsch.
3. ...wrote a book, what genre would it be?
Fiction.
4. ...ran a school, what would you teach?
If I was running the school, I'd sit in my office and have nothing to do with those snot-nosed little bastards.
5. ...recorded an album, what kind of music would be on it?
Cover songs on piano.
My picks went 13-3 in the tournament yesterday, which is acceptable. Oh, and big thanks to Dayton for playing the worst 15 minutes of basketball I've ever seen and ruining the game. Is it too much to ask to make a free throw here and there? Anyway, I'm currently in the 89th percentile on the Yahoo! pick 'em game. I plan to climb higher.
[Comment]
SAT - 3.20.04 - 12:45 AM
I'm now 25-7 in my picks (like you care). I'm concerned about the lack of upsets so far...out of 32 games, the higher seed has won 28 of them. That makes me think there's going to be some big-time shakedowns in the next few rounds with top seeds dropping like flies, which would all but decimate my bracket. Hopefully this year's just an aberration. I suffered some disappointing losses today, but still have 14 of my Sweet 16 in it.
[Comment]
MON - 3.22.04 - 12:08 AM
I saw The Passion of The Christ on Saturday night. To describe it in a word, I'd say "intense." There was very little relief from the brutality and seriousness. One of the main critiques is that there was no development in the characters, but I think that this was more intended for those who already knew the story. The Bible has its place, but it's not a very good storyteller. The movie really puts into (horrificly) vivid images the final hours of Jesus. I think all Christians should see it, if only for a much deeper appreciation of the sacrifice Christ made for us. And only if you're at least 15 or 16...I can't imagine why someone would take their kids to see that.
My bracket is on its last gasps of breath. I have 6 of the Sweet 16, and my national champinship game of Kentucky vs. Stanford is shot. Whatever. Now I can enjoy the games and root for who I really want.
***EDIT: Was I right about the top seeds falling, or what? *cries*
Monday means 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
Ween - Buenas Tardes Amigo
The Ladybug Transistor - Aleida's Theme
Ryan Adams - The Fools We Are As Men
Marilyn Manson - The Dope Show
Liam Lynch - Sir Track
[Comment]
MON - 3.22.04 - 11:34 PM
I know this is a few days old, but I felt it warranted a mention here:
I was never a real big fan of him before, but I now officially hate Warren Sapp.
And in more recent news, John Lynch ain't helping his case with me, either.
Hey Carl Peterson! Get off your ass and make some moves to improve your sorry excuse for a National Football League-caliber defense! Your division rivals are improving themselves while you sit on your duff and wait for the draft.
[Comment]
THU - 3.25.04 - 3:35 AM
Not much going on since school resumed. Same ol'. Ben Folds tickets go on sale in 5 hours; floor seats are just for students though. :(
Anyone who used to (or still does) watch the cartoon Animaniacs surely remembers the bit "Good Idea, Bad Idea." Well, it's time for another of my signature knock-off series: Good Commercial, Bad Commercial.
Good Commercial: Nike's Jordan shoe ads with the guy by himself on a basketball court with a narrator talking about fame and greatness.
Bad Commercial: Nike's spots with athletes playing sports other than the ones they're famous for. Marion Jones (track star doing gymnastics) and Lance Armstrong (cyclist doing boxing) in particular look terribly computer-inserted.
[Comment]
FRI - 3.26.04 - 12:47 AM
Warning: big long entry ahead.
Ordered my Folds ticket this morning, but I'm going to attempt to finagle a student seat over the weekend. Also, had a dash of something interesting at work today.
It all started when the lady who usually occupies the front desk had to take off to pick her daughter up from school, so I covered her station while she was out. Sometime during all this, my wallet became uncomfortable in my back pocket, so I took it out and put it on the desk. This is important.
Later on, after she returned, I had to take a file to an office across town. My gas was low, but the light hadn't come on yet, so I wasn't too worried. I stopped at a Shell on my way over, and went to swipe my card in the slot. However, when my hand reached around to grab my wallet, it slapped nothing but khaki and cheek. Oh well, I thought. I've got enough gas to get there and back. So I got on the interstate and continued on my way.
I had been on the interstate for approximately two tenths of a mile (honest to God) when my gas pedal stopped working. So yeah, I'd like to thank my gas gauge for not functioning properly. Luckily I was right at an exit, so I pulled off where a Conoco station awaited just off the road.
At this point on I-40, there is a service road on each side, and there are stop signs at each exit for people on the service road so someone coming off the highway doesn't plow over them. Unfortunately for me, some jackass in a giant sport-utility vehicle chose to ignore the sign, forcing me to brake momentarily and lose most of the forward momentum I had. I had to pull off to the side literally about 100 feet from the gas station.
So then I had to call the office and ask someone to bring my wallet and help me get my car to the Conoco. Of course, I was in such a weird little nook off the interstate that it took them about 20 minutes to find me after a 5 minute drive. So that's my fun story for the day (week? month?).
It being Friday, March 26, I'd like to wish the happiest of birthdays to my favorite sister in the world. I can't friggin' believe she's 18 years old.
It also being just a Friday, I'd like to do the Five now, as well. (There was none this week, so this is a random one from last year.)
1. What time do you wake up on weekday mornings?
7:30 for school, 8:00 for work.
2. Do you sleep in on the weekends? How late?
Obscenely late. Actually, I generally try to be up by noon or 1 at the latest, but every now and then I have a lapse. Usually depends how late I stay up the night before.
3. Aside from waking up, what is the first thing you do in the morning?
Take out my retainer.
4. How long does it take to get ready for your day?
Anywhere from 10 minutes if I get up, dressed, and put on a hat, to 30 minutes if I get up, do my hair, and have some breakfast.
5. When possible, what is your favorite place to go for breakfast?
The kitchen. I'm a cereal eater.
[Comment]
MON - 3.29.04 - 10:47 PM
Welp, no such luck on the Folds tickets. Oh well, I should at least be closer than I was at Orange Peel. However, disaster looms. I'm going to have to do some maneuvering, but I should know by tomorrow night.
You know, I heard Britney Spears' new song Toxic the other day, and to my surprise it wasn't a complete piece of crap. It's not great music by any stretch of the imagination, but it's a step up from the formulaic garbage that comprises the rest of her catalogue.
5RSFMWP!
Belle and Sebastian - Piazza, New York Catcher
The Beatles - All You Need Is Love
The Postal Service - Sleeping In
Ben Folds Five - Freebird Jam (Live)
Jurassic 5 - Thin Line
[Comment]
WED - 3.31.04 - 11:07 PM
Disaster averted. Turns out I had a test the same day as the Ben Folds concert, but I'll be taking it a day early. I believe that to be the last hurdle I have to clear.
I was flipping around the TV tonight and noticed the slam dunk contest for the McDonald's All-American game, so I stopped for a moment. I knew it was in OKC, but they obviously weren't playing in the Ford Center, so I was wondering where it was being held. Then I saw, in big letters along the baseline, CARL ALBERT. I was all, like, "DUUUUUUDE!"
I didn't recognize it because I've never actually been inside the new field house before. It was pretty cool seeing that on ESPN. And not only all that, but a big gender barrier was broken that evening at my alma mater (apparently this was Monday night and I just missed it). ESPN.com talks about the importance of the first female to win the McDonald's All-American slam dunk competition.
Nothing else of note for now. Opening day is Monday for the Royals and it couldn't come soon enough.
[Comment]
SUN - 4.4.04 - 4:51 PM
The weather here has been fantastic lately. It's starting to heat up. This is good.
I've got a great week ahead. Tomorrow is Opening Day for 26 baseball teams, including the Royals. This has been the longest offsesason of my life. I haven't been this excited about baseball season ever. KC's made the moves they needed to over the winter and now it's time to see if they pay off on the field. This is going to be a fun summer.
I won't make any predictions, because I don't like being a homer and I would probably pick the Royals to win the division. And of course, it would just hurt a little bit more if they didn't do it. We'll just say there are expectations that haven't been there for a long time. However, I do have a few observations about the rest of MLB.
I know I'm kind of biased here, but I really don't think the AL Central is as bad as everyone says. Sure, top-to-bottom it will probably be the weakest division in baseball, but the Twins, White Sox, and Royals are legitimately good ballclubs. The Indians have a ton of young talent and even the Tigers should be greatly improved. I think the bottom half of the NL Central (Pirates, Brewers, Reds) will be much worse than the Indians and Tigers.
The Padres could sneak up on some people. The NL West has taken a step down this year and the Fathers have some talented young pitchers to go along with some excellent offseason moves.
Look for a seventh consecutive season of Yankees-Red Sox-Blue Jays-Orioles-Devil Rays in the AL East.
And get used to the Yankees-Red Sox crap. ESPN worships this rivalry and the ARod stuff, while trivial, will be talked about to no end throughout the season, especially if it's a tight race (which it should be). But hey, if it produces a playoff series like last year's ALCS, I won't mind.
As for the rest of the week, there's the NCAA final Monday night, and of course, Ben Folds on Thursday. Then next Sunday, I'll finally be able to drink Mountain Dew and Dr. Pepper again. It really hasn't been too tough, except when I go out to eat or am in a group setting where there is a choice between soda and water.
Friday Five has been down the last two weeks, but tomorrow I'll do an old one to go along with 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist!
[Comment]
MON - 4.5.04 - 12:12 AM
Happy Opening Day!
I have to confirm this, but I believe the Royals will be on WGN! Friggin' sweeeeeet! If only I didn't have to listen to Hawk "Ultra Jackass" Harrelson. Oh well. No more complaining. The Royals will be on TV, and I will enjoy it because the stupid White Sux don't stand a chance.
Belated Friday Five (archived set).
1. Where were you born (city or state or just country)?
St. Joseph, MO
2. What is your favorite number?
5, followed closely by 11.
3. Vanilla or chocolate?
Vanilla.
4. What section of a bookstore would I find you in?
Sports.
5. What kind of mattress do you have on your bed? soft? firm? water?
Regular old boxspring...I really don't know the relative softness or hardness of it. My pillow's old and worn and beat up and slightly lumpy and I like it that way.
5RSFMWP!
Edgar Winter Group - Frankenstein
U2 - Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of
Ben Folds - Kate (Live)
The Shins - Saint Simon
Smoking Popes - Pure Imagination
I don't usually comment on the Winamp songs, but I'd just like to add that those last two have been getting heavy rotation in my listening habits for an extended period of time now. They are g r e a t.
[Comment]
MON - 4.5.04 - 9:03 PM
Hooooly. Crap.
I spent most of my time during the game being angry about the White Sox hits that kept dropping and their runs that kept crossing the plate, not to mention the Royals' inability to make solid contact with the ball. I had all but given up by the 7th inning when they fell behind 7-2.
Then in the bottom of the 9th, down 7-3, the first two batters walked. New pitcher for Chicago (Billy Koch, who we creamed last year), an RBI double and a strikeout for the Royals. Pena decides to pinch hit left-handed power hitter Matt Stairs for Graffanino, so the White Sox put in lefty pitcher Damaso Marte, who was awesome last year. Any hope I had for a comeback had basically been squelched.
So with one out and runners at second and third, right-hander Mendy Lopez comes to bat for Stairs to counter the pitching change. He goes to 3-1, and all I can think is "walk him and load the bases for Angel." Then a funny thing happened.
Mendy Lopez, who has 5 career home runs in essentially one season of play, hit a three run homer to tie the game.
I went nuts, and would have been happy to see the game go to extras. Angel didn't agree. He hit a hard single to left to bring up Beltran. Still only one out at this point. The count goes to 2-2, and Carlos flies one to left field. I figure that's out number two.
The camera pans to Chicago left fielder Carlos Lee moving back towards the wall, then looking over it. There's a splash in the fountains. Game.
First of all, I can't remember ever seeing a Royals opener on TV. Second of all, they've only won five openers in the last fifteen years. Third of all, what drama! Fourth of all, this could jump start a playoff year. I can't imagine any Opening Day topping this one ever.
I know this wasn't entirely coherent, and probably hard to follow too. I hope you'll forgive my excitement just this once.
[Comment]
FRI - 4.9.04 - 12:42 AM
Much to cover. I got a CD in the mail today, The Divine Comedy's "Casanova," and bought The Shins' "Chutes Too Narrow" at a real life store. After a listen each, I think I'm going to enjoy them immensely.
The Royals lost the next two games after Opening Day thanks to poor starting pitching and a lack of timely hitting. They won today, so they're 2-2 on the season. There's some slight concerns, but the season is still in its zygotic stage.
I'll go ahead and do the Friday Five now so I can give the day's most important item the time and space it deserves.
1. What do you do for a living?
I work at a law office mostly working with files (opening new ones, closing old ones, etc.)
2. What do you like most about your job?
The people and the convenience.
3. What do you like least about your job?
It's not exactly thrilling.
4. When you have a bad day at work it's usually because _____...
I'm having a bad day anyway.
5. What other career(s) are you interested in?
This is basically an extended summer gig. For those that haven't talked to me in the last 5 years or so, I plan on going into sports architecture.
Of course, Ben Folds was in Tulsa last night (Thursday night), and of course, I was there. The setlist, as recorded by yours truly:
There's Always Someone Cooler Than You
Zak and Sara
Best Imitation of Myself
Silver Street
All You Can Eat
Rock This Bitch (Tulsa Style)
Rent-A-Cop
Get Your Hands Off My Woman (The Darkness cover)
Late
Learn To Live With What You Are
Philosophy inc. Misirlou (Dick Dale cover) and Chopsticks (Liz Phair cover)
Brick
Kate
Girl
One Down
Army
One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces
Not the Same
Encore: Rockin' the Suburbs
Encore: Song for the Dumped (minor version with third verse in Japanese)
Rent-A-Cop and Late are going to be on the new album coming out in the summer. He performed Rent-A-Cop on bass with the audience clapping to keep the time. R-A-C is hilarious and Late is a sad, touching tribute to Elliott Smith, the singer who committed suicide in October. Rock This Bitch is a song that gets played when someone in the crowd inevitably shouts "Rock this bitch!" between songs. Ben always improvs something with the words "rock this bitch" prominently involved, but he doesn't like to do it the same way twice, so he comes up with a new version at each show. "Tulsa Style" was kind of jazzy, with a line about rocking this bitch Oklahoma style.
The crowd was pretty good. There was too much sitting, but they were cool and a lot people knew the backup parts and other such Ben concert etiquette. When the audience does the horn parts on Army, the trumpets got off by a beat at one point, which sucked, but the vocals on Not the Same were just gorgeous. Everyone harmonized really well, and the reverb in the arena was fantastic.
The warm-up band was G. Love and the Special Sauce, and I wasn't really impressed. I'd heard their song "Cold Beverages," which is pretty good, but seeing them live was underwhelming. They can't seem to decide if they're a jam band or a white-boy rap outfit.
Anyway, the concert was great. I was kinda hoarse by the end, but not as bad as I had expected. Afterwards I hung around to try and catch Ben, because he often sticks around to talk to fans. I had seen the loading dock on my way in, so I headed over there and there were a handful of people talking to Joe the stage manager. He didn't know if Ben was coming out or not. So we hung around for a while, eventually amassing a group of about 25 people. I was by myself, but ended up talking with some kids from Topeka. After waiting around for about 30-45 minutes, Ben came out to cheers. He was a short skinny guy, probably somewhere between 5'8" and 5'10" with a head that looks way too big for his body. Once I worked my way up to him, I had him sign my Ben Folds Five self-titled CD which had become unplayable (I have since bought a new one), took a picture and shook his hand. We exchanged some pleasantries, but I lost them in the swirl of the evening.
A few people had called friends on their cell phones and had Ben say something to them real quick, then about half of the crowd had him leave a message for their voicemail, like "Hey this is Ben Folds, so-and-so isn't here, but leave a message..." I thought about it, but decided to spare him since he was getting so many requests for it. He was really gracious and seemed to be appreciative of everyone in a very genuine kind of way. Sometimes with celebrities, they'll say things like "My pleasure," or "It's good to meet you too," but you can tell they're faking it. Not with Ben. He seemed to blend in with people like he was talking to friends. He made sure everyone had gotten all the pictures, autographs, and hugs they wanted before he went back into the building.
It was an evening I won't soon forget. Here's my autographed CD, ticket, and setlist and I will post my actual pictures once they get developed (should be ready Tuesday). Unfortunately, security were being Nazis about flash photography, so I don't know if any of my pics from the show will come out. We shall see.
[Comment]
MON - 4.12.04 - 6:05 PM
This hasn't been a good day for blogging. But then, neither are most of my days. Just something in particular about today, I guess...I don't know.
I would be listening to my new Shins CD non-stop, except for one thing. I can't stop listening to The Divine Comedy. Man, these albums are both just incredible. They have my highest recommendation (though you'll have to do some searching to dig up Casanova).
The R's are up to 4-2 now, and once their starting pitchers and heavy hitters get into gear, they could be one of the best teams in the league. Things are shaping up nicely for a summer of great baseball.
5RSFMWP!
Jim Carrey - I Am The Walrus
Reunion - Life Is A Rock
Preston School of Industry - Walk of a Gurl
The Darkness - Love On The Rocks With No Ice
The Beatles - Revolution
And yes, that's the Jim Carrey you're thinking of. And yes, he does an impressive job with a Beatles song.
Oh, and by the way, hope everyone had a Happy Easter and all that jazz.
[Comment]
TUE - 4.13.04 - 11:41 PM
Maybe the lines at Super Wal-Mart would go faster if they took out the damn grocery store. This one guy must have been stocking up for a nuclear fallout. There was an old lady in line behind me and now I know her better than my own grandmother.
If you buy a Yoo-hoo at a convenience store in the ghetto, people will look at you.
Hey, look. Pics from the Folds show are up. You can also see my new hair color, which I got about two weeks ago. Have fun kids.
P.S. I hate the White Sox this much.
[Comment]
FRI - 4.16.04 - 12:34 AM
Man. Good riddance, White Sox. See you in August, hopefully when our pitchers won't be throwing underhanded. Guh.
These weren't just losses. They were agonizing. It seemed like Magglio Ordonez was batting in every inning, and he was hitting a home run every time. At least the KC offense finally started showing up. Whatever. We're done with Chicago for a few months.
My taxes came out nicely. I'll be getting a sizable refund. I'll probably put it towards the fund for my many trips this summer. I'm sure I'll tell you all about them as they approach.
5RSFMWP!
They Might Be Giants - Ana Ng
Pulp - Common People
The Cardigans - Carnival
Death Cab for Cutie - Tiny Vessels
Stevie Wonder - Higher Ground
[Comment]
SAT - 4.17.04 - 3:05 PM
Every now and then I get mixed up on which days I do 5RSFMWP! and Friday Five (oddly enough). Usually I catch it quickly, but this time I didn't notice my error until more than 24 hours after I had posted. So here's a Friday Five (an old one; there probably won't be a new one for another couple weeks), and you can keep yesterday's 5RSFMWP! for no extra charge.
1. Laying on your back and facing the ceiling, which side of the bed do you sleep on?
Um...in the center?
2. Do you have to have covers (blankets and/or sheets) at all costs, no matter the weather?
No, if it's hot I'll sleep on top of everything.
3. Sleep nekkid or no? Why?
Hmm, that would save some laundry...
4. What's under your bed?
Nothing.
5. If you have pets, do you let them sleep with you? Why or why not?
Moot point.
I attended my first baseball game of the year last night. Hit up The Brick for a RedHawks game against Omaha (Omaha won 8-3). Calvin Pickering of the O-Royals put on a show, going 4-4 with 2 two-run homers, a three-run double, and a hit by pitch. Going again tonight to watch Royals pitching phenom Zach Greinke play.
[Comment]
SUN - 4.18.04 - 4:07 PM
I don't believe the Royals have won a game since I put that picture of Carlos Beltran up. So it's gone now. It's probably too late for them to come back today (last I checked they were down 8-3 in the seventh), but hopefully tomorrow they can snap what will be by then a six game losing streak.
[Comment]
MON - 4.19.04 - 2:06 AM
I forgot to mention it earlier, but the RedHawks game Saturday night was one of the most boring baseball games I've ever been to. The final score was 3-0 RedHawks, with all three runs coming on a home run. And yes, Zach Greinke gave it up. The real Royals are now 4-8 on the year, which all makes for a very depressing start to the baseball season. But hey, maybe before too much longer I'll lose interest and stop talking about it in every update ; ).
5RSFMWP!
King Missile - Jesus Was Way Cool
Ben Folds - Eddie Walker (Live)
The Beatles - Penny Lane
Michelle Shocked - What Can I Say?
Pearl Jam - Do The Evolution
[Comment]
WED - 4.21.04 - 11:23 PM
It's springtime in Oklahoma, which can mean only one thing.
Good television.
Seriously, what's more exciting than watching storm coverage? There's danger, damage, unpredictability out the wazoo, and the news stations always add in a human interest story or two.
I used to be scared of storms, but now I love watching them develop and change directions and everything. As long as nothing serious is headed my way, I could watch that stuff for hours without getting bored.
Today some pretty rough stuff moved through OKC, with some circulation but no funnel clouds or tornadoes. The hail, though. Oh, the hail. At Channel 4's studio, it hailed for almost half an hour, baseball sized at times, and there were drifts that were several feet high. The fire department had to dig cars out of it. The main human interest story of the afternoon was that the berrage of hail had knocked a flock of about 50 ducks out of the sky, killing them and dropping them in a lake.
I'm telling you. When will the major networks pick up on this? It's like the movie Twister, only better.
[Comment]
FRI - 4.23.04 - 10:46 PM
Watching the Royals has been painful lately. For the first two weeks, our starting pitching stunk to high heaven, and we'd bring in the bullpen and they'd pitch really well. But the last two games our starters have been awesome, only to have the bullpen come in and not be able to throw a strike to save their damn lives. KC's 5-10 now, and it could be a very long summer. This sucks. We were supposed to be good this year.
1. What's your favorite time of day?
Don't have one.
2. What's your least favorite time of day?
Morning.
3. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Does it cause any problems?
Night owl. I often stay up way too late, and every now and then I get flipped around to where I'm sleeping during the day and doing stuff at night.
4. If you had an entire worry- and obligation-free day, what would you do with it?
Sleep, watch TV, maybe jog a little.
5. How do you plan to spend your weekend?
Writing a paper and NOT watching the Royals.
[Comment]
SUN - 4.25.04 - 9:45 PM
Fly hunting season is upon us. We've had a couple in the house in the last few days, and this will probably continue until sometime in September. So far, I am 2 for 2, and not just on kills. I mean, I've gotten both of the ones I've gone after, but I got each one with one stroke. 2 strokes, 2 kills. I feel invincible. Until I realize that I have a lot of work ahead of me the next few weeks. Maybe I'll get some more flies in between.
[Comment]
MON - 4.26.04 - 6:55 PM
Real updates resume when I turn in my paper tomorrow.
5RSFMWP!
The Divine Comedy - My Lovely Horse
Fastball - Make Your Mama Proud
Faith No More - We Care A Lot
Ben Folds Five - Selfless, Cold and Composed (Live)
The Mars Volta - Televators
[Comment]
WED - 4.28.04 - 11:40 PM
I went by CD Exchange today, hoping to unload a couple CDs I no longer listen to and pick up a few new ones. They accepted Incubus' Fungus Amongus, which I got from Columbia House a couple years ago thinking that it had "Drive" on it, which it did not. However, my old copy of the Wild Wild West soundtrack was turned away for the umpteenth time. It looks like my only means of getting of rid of that thing now is giving it away. Hey, chalk it up as a youthful indiscretion.
I got my paper uploaded to the anti-plagiarism site yesterday and turned in the actual copy today. I might post it here, but it's not particularly interesting. A biography of Mark Twain. If I get a couple requests I will, but otherwise, you're not missing a whole lot.
[Comment]
SAT - 5.1.04 - 9:16 PM
No Friday Five this week, and the archives were closed so I can't do an old one. I'm sure you'll all live.
I'm sick of the Royals. They're 7-15 and I'm not wasting my time worrying about it anymore. Until I change my mind.
[Comment]
THU - 5.20.04 - 12:56 AM
*blinks eyes*
Wow, haven't seen this place in a while.
Well, the last two weeks of school blindsided me with test after test, so that kind of knocked me off track. Since then I've just been taking a bit of a break from updating you all on the silly little things that fill my day, but I'll be getting back to it soon...maybe next week? If not, by the end of the month. You have my word.
A quick little update of what's transpired since I left:
I finished my second year of college, and my first and only year at Rose State. I'll either get all A's or 3 A's and a B, which will be more than enough to get my GPA up to what OU wants.
I'm working full time at Forbes & Forbes once more, which means the paychecks are a little more shiny and attractive.
My sister graduates high school on Saturday. It'll be weird watching her take her final steps of real childhood...but I'm sure I'll be proud. Oh, and she's singing the national anthem. What's your younger sibling done lately?
I'm moving back to Midwest City for a couple months over the summer at the end of May. It'll save money, gas, and driving time.
Watch the movie American Splendor and be sure and thank me afterward.
That is all. See you soon.
[Comment]
SUN - 5.23.04 - 12:37 AM Edited 5.23.04, 11:14 PM
CAUTION: This is not an actual update, just some plans I have for the site so I won't forget them later.
I want to rewrite some of the different pages, as I think that my content's evolved since I first put that stuff down, even if only a smidgen.
Check.
Most of the Pictures section no longer works because Angelfire has jumped on the "no remote image hosting" bandwagon. It's annoying, but I was hoping to add more images and index everything anyway, and this kind of forces me to.
I'll be moving "Musings" into the "Extras" section, because I don't update them anymore and frankly, no longer find them particularly a"musing." Heh. But I know some people like them, so I won't get rid of them completely. I need to come up with a new section to take its place so that the menu stays full. I might just move the CD Collection to the menu since it's the page I update most often outside of the blog (and lately, more often than that).
Maybe work on the links section a little bit? I try to include only pages that people other than myself might be interested in, but at the same time, I feel an obligation to my favorite websites to provide linkage. Oh, and change my linking button to one that has less awkward parentheses.
OK, I'm done. Away with you.
[Comment]
WED - 5.26.04 - 1:13 AM
A short (?) entry about music.
The Shins. "Chutes Too Narrow." My goodness. Delectable.
I'm checking out a lot of new (to me) bands lately. I think for that new section I might just give a couple three sentences about bands (new and old) which have rubbed me one way or the other.
The fact that I will never see Ben Folds Five perform live occasionally whacks my conscious mind in much the same manner as the dread that George W. Bush and his administration might be in power for four more years. The live mp3s I have of them render superlatives irrelevant. And by them, I mean Ben Folds Five.
Oh, a quick non-music note. I started reading Franny and Zooey by Salinger on Monday night. I'll let you know how that goes.
[Comment]
SAT - 5.29.04 - 4:13 AM
I saw The Day After Tomorrow, tonight. It's about what you'd expect from a disaster movie; some laughable dialogue, unimportant attempts at life lessons, and a lot of famous landmarks being obliterated. This particular one tries to push an environmental message; however, I wouldn't think a Hollywood summer blockbuster would be the correct forum if they wish to be taken seriously. There's also a subtler theme about the poor helping the rich, and a bunch of mushy stuff. Again, not unexpected, but there should have been more emphasis on explosions and destruction. But hey, if you're willing to check your brain at the door, it ain't a bad way to spend a couple hours.
Tomorrow (technically today) I'll be trying to sort through the mess that is my room so that I can move back to MWC.
Franny and Zooey was a good read. If you're looking for something to do, it has my seal of approval.
I saw the following on someone else's page, and thought it looked kinda fun. Here goes.
Postmodern Poetry: Go to your playlist and put it on random. Write the first line of the first song, then the second line of the second song, and so on through the sixteenth random song. Keep it random! See what kind of "lyrics" or "poem" you get, and add your own punctuation and "title"... and see if any of your friends can identify any of the songs.
"Love Don't Cost A Thing"
Alternate Title: "You Got Served"
I feel like a quote out of context
And I'm here in your prison
The self's coagulated
But all this is sickness, the feeling ain't in this
You've been counting on a savior
Illustrate the paper space off the pens that paint
If there are priests at your party
When you need a shoulder to cry on
But I can see you
Made complete
Seven kids and a phony affair
I love you more than anyone in my life
All you need is love
Uninvited, we'll stay if we want
They seem to strut in their milennial fogs
And all that they are just reeks with the sweetest belief
You know, some of those lines fit pretty well together. Then there's the other ones. I'll post the song titles tomorrow, or whenever I update next.
[Diagnosis?]
SUN - 5.30.04 - 11:54 PM
The songs from yesterday:
1 Ben Folds - Best Imitation of Myself
2 Elton John - Take Me To The Pilot
3 Mr. Bungle - Egg
4 Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Stop
5 Beulah - Your Mother Loves You, Son
6 Jurassic 5 - What's Golden
7 The Flaming Lips - Jesus Shootin' Heroin
8 Electric Light Orchestra - Hold On Tight
9 The Ataris - Boys of Summer
10 U2 - Love Is Blindness
11 The Presidents of the United States of America - Cleveland Rocks
12 Daft Punk - Something About Us
13 The Beatles - All You Need Is Love
14 Cake - Meanwhile, Rick James...
15 Beck - Tropicalia
16 Neutral Milk Hotel - Where You'll Find Me Now
You know, in case you care.
It's not real often I get very excited about upcoming movies. But I've been bitten. This one's called Garden State, and it's coming out in limited release on July 31. This, of course, means that it almost certainly will not be shown in Oklahoma City in the foreseeable future. However, I'm willing to drive a few hours to see it. That's how into it I am.
Garden State trailer, version 1
Garden State trailer, version 2
Looking at my last entry, I kind of gave the impression that I didn't like The Day After Tomorrow. But I did. Like I said, it's not for the intellectual crowd, but it's a good time. Probably my favorite disaster movie. The special effects are superb.
[Let's Play Steak]
THU - 6.3.04 - 12:56 AM
Comin' to you live from M dub dub C. Or Midwest City, as the old-timers like to call it. Pfft, whatever dawg.
Uneventful few days so far. I got in about dinner time on Monday, and since then I've been working, unpacking, and doing laundry. I never did sell my textbooks from first semester, so I have a year's worth of books that I'm looking to cash in on. I'm checking out places online (suggestions are more than welcome), but if I don't find anything, there's a place close to Rose that buys back.
I put down that list of things to work on with the site a few days ago, and I fully intend to get down to that business here pretty soon, probably over the weekend. I also want to start a new weekly thing for Fridays since The Friday Five is officially dead. 5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist! will return, though I haven't decided whether I'm going to leave it on Mondays or move it to Tuesdays. I guess you'll find out early next week.
[Let's Play Steak]
SAT - 6.5.04 - 12:44 AM
I'm going to talk about the Royals. I'm going to be angry. And for once, it's not their fault.
Lately, they've been getting their act together somewhat. They're not completely out of the race yet, but they need to be really good the rest of the summer to compete for the division. Anyway, they've won three of their last four games, and so for those three wins I've tuned in to Baseball Tonight on ESPN to catch the highlights.
Baseball Tonight is an hour long show focusing solely on baseball, as hinted at by the title. Yet in this entire hour, they have not so much as mentioned the Royals on the nights of two of the aforementioned wins. NOT A WORD. I expect this from SportsCenter. They've got an hour to cover everything in sports, and frankly, the Royals aren't playing meaningful games right now. But the thing is, SportsCenter's been showing highlights of these games.
Meanwhile, Baseball Tonight has their idiot talking heads (yeah, I'm talking to you, Jeff Brantley and Rob Dibble; and Harold Reynolds, you're fast approaching their level) discussing Albert Pujols and his apparent lack of intentional walks. WTF?!?! The Royals do something they don't do all that often (win) and these goons use up an hour going over the important games, then the asinine, unimportant details of those games. Rather than beating into oblivion this crap that no one, and I mean no one, cares about, why not throw us small market fans a bone once in a while and show one of our players hitting a home run? That's all I'm asking for! One clip!
Anyway, the first two of those three wins were against the Tigers, one of the few teams in baseball who might actually be worse than the Royals. I was upset that we couldn't get highlights, but I suppose I could see the reasoning in some sort of sick, east-coast-biased kind of way.
Tonight KC beat Boston, one of the most popular teams in the country and also one of the most nauseatingly overexposed. They'll show highlights for the Boston fans, certainly.
At first, it looked like a repeat of the previous two times I'd watched. Not a word through almost the whole show. Then, with literally 5 seconds left in the show (I couldn't make this up if I wanted to), the guy says, "Oh by the way, the Royals beat the Red Sox 5-2 tonight." End of show.
*rips hair out*
[Let's Play Steak]
SAT - 6.5.04 - 9:51 PM
Is it time to start looking for some kind of curse that could be affecting Belmont Park?
I decided it was time for a slight layout change. I hope you like it. If not, tell me and I might think about changing it back.
I got several things done with the site this afternoon, and I feel much better about where everything stands for now. The only thing left on my list is the Pictures section. I just came across a big stack of stuff I want to scan and include here. Over the next few months I'll be adding pics in small increments and eventually there will be a real nice indexed selection with a wide range of photos.
Yesterday I ordered tickets for the Ben Folds/Guster show in Kansas City on July 18. It looks like Marco and I will head up there for the concert and a Royals game, as well as maybe hanging out with some of his friends at KU. I'm pretty excited about it. This will be my third Folds show.
This site is pretty funny. It runs pretty much along the lines of my feelings about this year's election.
http://www.johnkerryisadouchebagbutimvotingforhimanyway.com
G'night!
[Let's Play Steak]
SUN - 6.6.04 - 10:29 PM
Did some more work on the site today. I've got the Pictures section partly indexed, and the pics from St. Louis are fully functional, as far as I can tell. I also moved the Picture This archive into the Extras section, since I took down that particular feature during the layout change.
My interest has recently been piqued by the television show Cowboy Bebop. It's an anime sci-fi bit about bounty hunters, from what I can gather. Oh, and the whole thing is accompanied by friggin' sweet jazz and bebop music. The title song is called "Tank!", and if you can find it, I suggest you give it a listen. I've never actually seen more than 5 minutes of the show, but I'm going to try to start fitting it into my schedule. There's also a Cowboy Bebop movie, which of course I plan on renting.
[Let's Play Steak]
MON - 6.7.04 - 11:48 PM
I'm working on uploading and then adding my pictures from Cooperstown to the Pictures section right now. It will probably be ready to go by the time you read this.
5 Random Songs From My Winamp Playlist! returns to Mondays. Without further ado...
British Sea Power - Blackout
Ludwig Van Beethoven - Pathetique Sonata
Ben Folds Five - Song for the Dumped (Live)
Radiohead - Myxamatosis
The Beatles - The Long and Winding Road
[Let's Play Steak]
SUN - 6.13.04 - 7:50 PM
Since my last update, I've added pictures from Los Angeles (under Cities) and a house construction (under Other). Still lots left to go.
Life's been slow the last few weeks. But Friday, we leave for Denver for my cousin's weddding. That should be a good time, and I'll get to add Coors Field to my list of visited ballparks.
I understand that the death of a president is a pretty big deal. But God, I'm glad this week is over so we don't have to watch 24-hour coverage of Ronald freakin' Reagan.
[Let's Play Steak]
TUE - 6.15.04 - 12:57 AM
Tonight I went to see the son of a coworker play a rock show. His band's called Death Comesto Matteson. They're from Nashville and play what I would describe as dark, brooding indie rock. And honestly, they were pretty good. They know how to rock out, and were at their best when doing so. Our man was the drummer, and I was impressed with his prowess and emotion. I bought a CD and shirt. Check them out if you get the chance.
5RSFMWP! (It's still Monday in my brain)
My Morning Jacket - Master Plan
Franz Ferdinand - Jacqueline
Johnny Cash - I've Been Everywhere
Old 97's - Question
Electric Six - Danger! (High Voltage)
[Let's Play Steak]
FRI - 6.18.04 - 1:14 AM
I've got one last update in me before leaving for the Rockies.
Saved! is a good movie, as long as you've got some sense of humor about your religion (assuming you're a Christian, otherwise you can disregard that). Got a little predictable at the end, but it was absolutely hilarious. I give it 3� out of 5 stars.
See you next week!
[Let's Play Steak]
TUE - 6.22.04 - 12:53 AM
Your cup shall runneth over with Denver details tomorrow. For now I just thought I'd let you know I'm alive and post Monday's 5RSFMWP!
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Tick
Of Montreal - Jennifer Louise
Ben Folds Five - One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces (Live)
Earth, Wind and Fire - In The Stone
Reel Big Fish - Video Killed The Radio Star
[Let's Play Steak]
WED - 6.23.04 - 1:20 AM
I've decided to split up my Denver trip into three entries, because I really don't like posting stuff that takes half an hour to read. Also, tomorrow my mom is taking my computer with her to the Presbyterian General Assembly, and I'm really not sure how long she and it will be gone (it'll be two weeks tops, though). I'll be able to update, just not whenever it strikes my fancy. So anyway, here's the first installment of my vacation saga.
My parents drove up a day earlier than my sister and I so that Courtney could work an extra day. We flew on a small Frontier Airlines jet. I hadn't flown in a while, so I was a little jittery until we got to cruising altitude. We got a great view of downtown OKC out our window, though.
I had worn shorts and a t-shirt, seeing as how it was summer in Oklahoma, and that's an appropriate style of dress for the season. This was a mistake. Presumably because our plane was so small, we had to exit the craft from a stairwell onto the tarmac rather than pulling up straight to the terminal. It was not 80 degrees in Denver. It was 50. And it was raining. But I was a man about it. It was only about a 100-foot walk to the terminal door, and I can't help but think about what a badass I must have looked like, strolling across the asphalt exposed to the elements and not giving a damn.
I'm about 95% sure that my 10th grade biology teacher Mr. Nguyen was on the flight, but that other 5% kept me from saying anything, and he never acknowledged me, so I let it go. But I'm almost positive it was him.
The parents picked us up at the airport, and from there we drove to the open house being held for the soon-to-be-married couple. It's been more than four years since I'd last seen most of this part of my family, and even longer for some of them. I didn't recognize one cousin at all, and most of the people I immediately identified looked very little like I remembered. Lots of growing and maturation, lots of new gray hairs, a few new in-laws.
In yesterday's 5RSFMWP!, the song "Jennifer Louise" was an incredible coincidence. The narrator is remembering a cousin who he hasn't seen in years, and wonders if they ever think about him as well. These feelings of fond memories and vague sadness are a pretty accurate reflection of my own. Even though none of my family members really match up with my age (to say nothing of the aunts and uncles), I enjoy the time we spend together. I know that I'll probably only see them at weddings and funerals from here on. It's the kind of thing that doesn't bother me because it has very little impact on my daily life. However, when I'm just sitting around and one of those memories flickers across my mind, leaving as quickly as it came, I think of what a shame it is that we miss out on so much of each others' lives.
[Let's Play Steak]
MON - 6.28.04 - 12:39 AM
Denver, Part 2
by Mike Ruark
Day 2 was the "vacation" day. In the morning a group of us went to the movies, none of which looked particularly appealing to me. I went with the people that chose Dodgeball, which looked okay, though I wasn't expecting a whole lot. However, it surprised me. It was very funny, mostly in a dumb way, but a funny dumb way, if you get my meaning. Some movies are just stupid, while others are stupid but make you laugh anyway. Dodgeball falls in that second category. Jason Bateman has a small but hilarious part.
After hanging around the hotel room and my aunt's house for a few hours, my dad and I went to the Rockies-Orioles game. Coors Field always gets pretty good reviews, even when compared with other retro parks, so I was looking forward to checking it out for myself.
I wasn't disappointed. Coors Field is top-notch all around. The exterior is a lovely shade of brick with some sandstone in strategic places. There's an old brick building that's not part of the stadium but is within the gate (I think it's a restaurant or something now), and on the side is an animated neon sign that shows a runner sliding into home plate while the umpire calls him safe. It's a neat touch. The main rotunda is one of the best I've seen. The clock at the top is a trademark feature. There's also an impressive entry way on the first base side.
The inside of the park is just as great. I'm a big fan of the Rockpile, the section of bleachers in deep center field. The main scoreboard in left field is nicely crafted, topped off with a great neon Rockies logo. There's an interesting mural underneath the Rockpile that starts at the left with settlers and buffalo, gradually advancing through time until it shows fans at the ballpark.
The food was expensive but good. I got a Denver-style hot dog, which includes salsa and jalapenos. Six freakin' dollars, but it was just about worth it. The concourses were spacious and aesthetically pleasing. Behind the stands in right field, there's an entertainment area with games for the kids and even the adults. I took a turn in a video batting cage, where you stand in front of a video screen while the big-league pitcher of your choice throws at you, with a tennis ball popping out of a hole in the screen at the appropriate moment and flying at you. I faced Greg Maddux and didn't do better than a couple of foul tips. Dimly lit video screens are not very good hitting backdrops.
Overall, Coors was my favorite of the retro parks I've been to. I like the interior about the same as the Ballpark in Arlington, which was my favorite to this point, but the exterior at Coors is much more imaginative. If you ever get a chance to catch a game in Denver, I highly recommend it.
I'll conclude my story in a few days. There's no 5RSFMWP! this week, because my Winamp playlist is with my mom at the moment. Have a good 'un.
[Let's Play Steak]
WED - 6.30.04 - 1:26 PM
Last night I began reading "Mere Christianity" by C.S. Lewis. I got through 35 pages, which is more impressive if I mention that usually I read about 10-15 pages of a book when I read at night. Just in the "introductory" section I read, Lewis takes several ideas that I have kind of had vague thoughts about, expounds upon them, then develops them to a point that is incredible and rewarding.
Is it just me or is this summer dragging like no other in years? Maybe it would help if the Royals weren't so perfectly inept. Incidentally, I like the Beltran trade, on the surface. It remains to be seen how the prospects pan out. But the pitcher, Mike Wood, won the game for us yesterday, so things are off to a good start.
I haven't forgotten about the conclusion of my trip. In due time, my dear.
[Let's Play Steak]