Saturday, November 19, 2005

For love of the game

It's rare these days to actually see players in professional sports actually play and conduct their careers with sportsmanship. I found the NBA's, or was it MLB's, ad campaign "I love this game" quite humorous, always feeling that "...if the money's right!" should be should be mumbled next under the player's breath.

With loyalty and sportmanship at an all-time low in sports, I am happy to see one player forget about the millions of dollars they are about to receive, and think about what's best for their team. The player I speak of is Chipper Jones. He has stated it throughout his career that he work cut his salary if the team needs more extra cash to make certain trades or deals, and now he is backing up his word by cutting a hole in his wallet. When I had first heard him make such claims a while back, I had always felt a little reserved, mostly because such loyalty is unheard of, this being the true test. "Oh sure, Right, well we will just have to wait and see about that.", figuring a few more years down the road might change his mind once he's making the big bucks, but no. He has stuck to his word and done what is best for the team.

It would be great if this trend spread throughout the league, and throughout all sports, unfortunately I believe it may be too late with the T.O./Rosenhaus generation of greed in full force. But regardless, I applaud Chipper's loyalty, and wish to see other players to follow suit.

"Grape! . . . or maybe Cherry, cause I like Cherry too, . . . but they're both favorites, only if I had to choose, I'd choose Grape, cause it's a little more favorite . . . but they're both good . . . they're both good!"

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

I've gone PRO

That's right, I put the PRO in Procrastination. In the midst of finals week, I managed to effectively finish one of my projects 20 min. before class started, but that's not the best part. The best part is that it was a class favorite. "Wow, that must have taken you a long time." What is bad is that I know this approval by others is subconsciously telling my brain that procrastination is OK, even when I know that it is not very good work ethic, and it only builds up more stress. But, apparently my best work is done at the last minute. It will catch up with me one day, and it won't be pretty.

This hasn't been my first feat of supreme procrastination this quarter. Nearly ever other project I have completed so far has been finished at the last moment. It started at 45 min. before class, then 25, then 10, today 20 min., and of then of course, my PR, 5 min. The thing I don't understand is that I am not really putting things off, yet it still comes down to the wire. I don't get it, I haven't even been playing any Xbox or watching TV or anything. Where does the time go?

Speaking of Xbox, the neighbor Jason has already purchased his wireless 360 controller. It put him out $50, ouch. I have been debating the idea of purchasing an Xbox 360. Actually, I've been debating when I'll purchase one. It's a given that I will have one eventually, then question is when. This next gen is going to put a hurting on the wallet. I am not looking forward to that, and right now I am having some reservations to buy as I am not entirely excited about the product. I'm having a hard time believing that the cost of the box is equivalent to the amount of happiness I receive from it. However, my feeling of want is trying to overcome my logic and reason. Want has won in the past, but I am actually going to resist and put up a fight this time. The neighbors are all purchasing their 360s day of release, that won't make it any easier. I'll fight it until I feel the product is worth the money, when want turns to need. Hopefully I won't have to wait to long to be convinced to buy.

Crew News:
Well, this last weekend was my first crew event. It was very hard, very strenuous, very tiring, and even a little bit fun. I don't even know how we placed. I'd say it's safe to say we finished in the middle of the pack or lower, as there were many larger, more experienced schools there, like Clemson, Bama, NC State, Ga Tech, etc. We competed better with the smaller schools, but unfortunately we still have to race the big dogs too.

We meet at the boathouse on Friday to winterize the boats and close things down for the winter. That means cleaning, painting, etc. Hopefully the day can be topped off with some sort of celebration.

I have some pictures from the race, but this stupid PictureTrail account is telling me to pay them money now for some reason, and that's probably not going to happen. So, I will have to find another way to post them for everyone to see. If you know of a better image hosting site, please let me know. Only requirement is that it is free.

Only 2 more projects to turn in before I am done with my first quarter here at SCAD. I've got until Tuesday to get it all done. Maybe I'll get them done early so I can relax this weekend. Right!

Looking forward to Thanksgiving, and the rest of my break. I will be heading back to ATL for some of the break to do some work at SFI, and make a little money, then I'll take the rest of the time off for Xmas and the wedding, then it's back to the grind in the Winter quarter. Sounds like a good plan to me. Hopefully I'll see you somewhere along the way. Take 'er easy.

"I walked around my good intentions
And found that there were none"

Friday, November 11, 2005

Eve

Well, it's the night before my first official crew event, The Head of the South in Augusta, GA. I am feeling some old, but familiar butterfly feelings, again from the CC days. But if my memory is correct, it turns into an awesome feeling right before the gun sounds. Then in the first few 100 yds (or meters in this case) the butterflies are let go, and it's all good.

It turns out that I will be rowing two races tomorrow. One with the Novice 8 that I have been practicing with the whole time, and then another 5k on a Mixed 8 boat (coed w/ novice & varsity). I am stroke on both boats. The boat with the varsity is obviously making me slightly more nervous, but at least that race is first to get the nerves out of the way for the Novice 8 race a couple hours later.

The bus is leaving for Augusta at 3:30 AM from the boathouse, so it will be an early morning to a long, long day. But the parents and bro will be meeting me there, so it should be fun. I believe I have everything prepared, and ready to go, so on that note, I think it's time for bed. Good night.

"And how can we expect anyone to listen if we are using the same old voice? We need new noise - new art for the real people.
...Can I scream?"

Thursday, November 03, 2005

Stroke

Latest Crew News

That's me, Stroke. 8 seat. First to row, last in the boat (minus the coxswain).

I like my current position in the boat. It's a little more responsibility than most of the other seats, since everyone is following my move. "Do exactly what Zach is doing, even if it's wrong." - Coach Steve. Haha, nice. Follow me then as I jump off this bridge. No? Fine then, follow me as I move to 32 strokes a min. With 7 people depending on my perfection, it gets a bit tense sometimes, because if I fail, the boat fails. No pressure.

Our first competition, I believe they are called 'regattas', or maybe 'meets', is going to be next weekend (Nov. 12) in Augusta, GA. Currently, I am bit worried we may not be prepared in time. We may just run out of time, as we have not yet moved to rowing with all 8 rowers at the same time. That's important. We have made it up to 6 w/o having too much of a problem. With less than 8 rowing, those stationary keep the boat keel (level, stable) while the rest row. With all 8, the only thing keeping us keel is a bunch of rowing oars, a lot less stable. The more the boat rolls from side to side, the harder it is to row due to inconsistencies in the height your oar's blade is off the water. So...hopefully we can move up to all 8 soon, since we won't come close to competing at all with only 6 going at it. Today we did a 5k on the ERGs (rowing machines). That was a blast. It brought back feelings I haven't felt in a long, long time, not since my CC days. The feeling in your body that is essentially a lack of feeling. Your body is moving, but all you are really doing is telling your brain to go faster, no longer telling it where to put arms and legs. It's a high that is hard to cherish at the time. We need to keep out 500m splits as low as possible. Today the lowest I could get was 1:42 @ 30spm, but not everyone was in 'sync behind me, so it really meant nothing. Some guys in the back of the boat (actually, the bow of the boat) are having a hard time with endurance, not so much their Power endurance, but their Form's endurance. When your form breaks down, everything else is for not. Form, comes before Power, a new concept for some. I fear some will just drop out half-way through our 5k next Saturday. That would be a total embarrassment. We've worked to hard to fail now. I am hopeful that it will all come together in time. This next week we will just have some long, hard practices to get it all down. Since this is the Novice's only race of the fall season, it's feeling pretty big. After Saturday the fall season is pretty much over, resuming when we get back from winter break, I believe, for the spring season.

I will post the results of the regatta, good or bad, when we get back. Maybe even some pictures of us in our spandex unis as well (uni has two meanings here, not just uni as in uniform, but also uni as is one piece). Spandex brings out the 'dead sexy-ness' in all of us, not to mention the previously unknown level of 'cool' that we will bumped up too. w00t, I can't wait.

"Is it raining? Is it snowing?
Is a hurricane a-blowing?
Not a speck of light is showing,
So the danger must be growing.
Are the fires of Hell a-glowing?
Is the grisly reaper mowing?
Yes, the danger must be growing,
For the rowers keep on rowing,
And they're certainly not showing,
Any signs that they are slowing!"

Friday, October 28, 2005

The path is fading away...

I've followed the path as far as I can, now it's fading. It's a strange feeling. I've been guided up, down, through harsh terrain, and even temporary paradise, and I've taken it all in along the way, good and bad, in hopes that it was all beneficial to the final goal in some way, only to find the path doesn't end in permanent paradise, but in a dense forest with no obvious path out.

I've arrived here at school after a long journey of ups and downs, now what at first seemed like another waypoint on the path's map, it is instead turned into a forest. So many ways out, so many different routes. Which way do I go? I could go the apparently obvious way, the way that would use my knowledge of the path to date. It wouldn't be the easiest route, but no way is going to be that easy. Right now it doesn't seem to be the most exciting route either, as it's just the same ol' path, only I'm defining where it goes now (an attribute of any path). OR I could go in just about any other somewhat interesting direction. Only problem is that I don't know too much of anything about those paths, are where they lead, but they would be a change, an interesting challenge, and hopefully provoking more excitement than the original path would. But, would the interest fade on those paths as well? All of these paths lead to a different unknown destination, none of which guarantee happiness, and/or prosperity. It's a risk, a seemingly big one, or is that just in my head, and it doesn't matter which way I go? Do I take that risk, or should I just trudge on straight ahead and hope it comes out OK? Which way should I go? There are so many interesting ways to go, at the moment it seems to be such an enormously daunting and important decision, yet no one is forcing me to decide but myself.

As much as I enjoy the idea of being an architect, there have only been a few times when I have been able to envision my future as actually being an architect, and for some reason I can't envision being happy as one. This worries me. Shouldn't I have a good idea of where I want to go? a dream? I do have a dream. The dream I keep having is of the future, but it only shows me where I end up, and not the path or profession I took to get there. My problem is that I have too many varying interests. They vary just enough to not be combined in some way, at least that's what it seems like. Here at school I am surrounded by several of these interests, all of which are tempting me in some way or another. I've been trying to figure out which I have the most interest in, but it keeps coming up 'too close to call', and now I feel like I'm stuck, stuck in a hole I willingly jumped into.

I need to get out of here. I need to think. The beach usually works at home, but I guess Georgia's sorry excuse for a beach will suffice. I'm gone.

"Every night these silhouettes appear above my head
Little angels of the silences that climb into my bed and whisper
Every time I fall asleep
Every time I dream"

Monday, October 24, 2005

Spinning

My head is spinning. No alcohol tonight, that was this last weekend, where apparently I gave my first and last lap dance ever. Anyway, today it's because I've been up for about 36 hrs. straight. I don't know if that's a PB, but I'm ready to cut it short anyway. Why up so long you ask? Well, I had a powerpoint presentation due today at Noon. The bulk of the presentation was completed between the hours of 5pm Sunday and 11:30am Today. Then at 11:45 I decided to change the name of my file to include my name, just like the professor likes it. Well, for some reason my flash drive decided to corrupt my one and only electronic copy of my powerpoint when I changed the name. Luckily the professor dropped his no-tolerance policy on 'technological mishaps', since I did just print out my slides right before the corruption. So at least he knows I did the work. But that means I have to create it all over again. Ugh! Is this a test? That is why my head is spinning. That and because I had to complete another project by 6pm tonight before class. This has to be some kind of test. Tomorrow holds another project due date @ noon for another class, ask me if it's finished.

Had to skip crew this morning to finish the project I erased. That's 4 miles of punishment. wonderful.

"these will cure my aching head, help me see again. these will take away the guilt, ease my soul again..."

Tuesday, September 27, 2005

Lucky #14

This goes out to that large community out there known as Brave-haters, but I think it's actually just Kyle and his imaginary hater friends. As I have been forecasting the entire season, tonight the Atlanta Braves have clinched their 14th consecutive National League East title. So there. As stated before, this is the first most important goal of the season, second being advancing to the championship series, and finally, the World Series. Because if you can't win your division, you are only good enough to watch the playoffs from your couch. Wild Card teams being the only exception, but I guess some teams do deserve a second chance for being kinda close behind.

Kyle- you predicted the Washington Nationals to win the division. Not a bad choice, they did have a valid shot to take the division and run with it. However, they returned to their Expo ways and floundered away the second half of the season. The NL East was far more competitive this year than in the past years, and I will admit, their were certain points of the season when I wasn't totally certain the Braves could pull it out. But as usual, Bobby Cox and his staff managed well with what they had (10+ rookies on the active roster), and pulled out another title. Maybe next year you will pick the team most likely to win. The door is always open here at the Braves fan club. We accept all denominations, and don't judge those betraying their previous teams. So just come on over whenever you're ready.

As for the remainder of the season, and the playoffs, I hope the Braves can play well, and stay away from injury and errors, in order to advance to the final Series. That would be incredible. However, as the past has definitely proven in every sport, the playoffs are quite unpredictable. That is what makes them so exciting to watch, anything can happen. So, with that, Go Braves! and we'll see you in the World Series. Maybe next year we'll have the chance to defend more than just the Division title...again.

Sunday, September 25, 2005

Back to the Future

I haven't written anything since I've gone back in time. So far I am enjoying the new life. The change from 40hrs. of work a week to waking up at 11am for class at 12, has been sooo tough. That is the easiest change however. I am surrounded by kids that are...well, kids. I didn't realize so much of my 'college guy' personality had been overcome by my 'grown up' personality. For the sake of making new friends and not sticking out like a sore thumb, hopefully my 'college guy' side will come back to me a bit. Don't get me wrong, I don't want to revert to every aspect of the College-guy, but simply mix it with a dose of Grown-up to make myself into some kind of Super-dude. I have been worried about my age affecting my college experience, but now that I am here, I am not going to worry about it anymore. My experience will be what I make of it.

Classes haven't been too bad. Homework has been lots of reading, and a few small projects. I fear the worst is yet to come. Hopefully I will be ready for it, but more importantly, I hope I will enjoy it.

My running endeavors have come to a complete halt. My running log seconds my laziness, NO DATA. However, I have been quite busy over the last month, so I am not going to hold it against myself. I do want to continue my running progress so that I can get into some kind of shape. I figured the easiest way to do that would be to join a sport here at school, so I have done just that. As of Saturday, I am officially on the SCAD Crew team. I have yet to row a boat, or even see one, but that will come. Crew is a sport that I think I will really enjoy. It is similar to the Cross Country I ran in high school, only that it will work my entire body, via lots of running, rowing machines, weights, repeat. Unfortunately, I will have to sacrifice my sleeping in to 11, since practices are daily at 6:30am. Ouch!

I will be happy to represent my new school, but I am not entirely ready to defend SCAD's mascot, Art the Bee. He has made every attempt to make himself appear mean, only to fail miserably. His clenched fists outstretched, scowling face, and angry eyes have not made him look mean at all, but more like he should be riding the short bus. *sigh* Go Bees!

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Where's Waldo George ?

Ever wonder where your money goes once you give it to the guy behind the counter at your local Kwik-E-Mart? Me neither. But then one day, when I received my change, I noticed someone had written something on one of my bills. It was a web address. So as any fearless internet wanderer would do, I typed it into my browser. I followed the instructions and did my part to keep the wheels in motion. It is more interesting than I expected, to know where your money goes and where it has been. Find out where your George goes next.

Thursday, September 01, 2005

A Life Of Saturdays

Well, the countdown is over. I finished up last Friday at the office, packed my box full of my belongings, and headed home. We spent some 'Goodbye Cake time' that afternoon. That was nice of them. When asked if anyone had something they would like to say about me and my time at SFI, everyone politely continued chewing their ice cream cake. I probably didn't want to hear what they had to say anyway. Yet, I was still forced to tell them how I felt about my time there. If only I could have told them what I really thought of them, but since they didn't feel like sharing how they felt, I kept mine in as well.

I have had a very good time while living here in Atlanta. I have grown a lot while here, learning a lot of things about life, about the field of Architecture, and about how things work in the business world. Some of it I didn't like at all, but I am hoping that experiencing those things will only make me a better person. The next time similar situations arise, I will know how to handle them. Hopefully. The city is a very cool place to live. There is always something to do. Unfortunately, that makes life very stressful, distracted, and tiring. I feel like I have aged 10 years while living here for only 5 years. The fast paced life is fun, but it takes a lot out of you. I am looking forward to a slower, smaller town.

I had great intentions of packing my crap up and moving ASAP to FL, preferably Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday of this week. It is now Thursday. I don't know why my laziness kicked in. Usually my adrenaline to get out of town puts me right on track, but not this time for some reason. I have definitely been living a life of Saturdays. Waking up at 11:30, turning on The Price Is Right, and eating my recommended daily allowance of strawberry pop-tarts. Packing has been slow-going. I am shocked by my lack of interest to leave town. Why can't I move faster? If I had made a definite plan before all of this free time appeared, then maybe I would be in FL right now. Stupid brain.

As of right now, my half-assed plan is to pick up a trailer from U-haul tomorrow, fill it up tomorrow, and shove off Saturday morning. I believe the parents will be coming up Saturday to help, and to drive my Wrangler home. Speaking of half-assed jobs, I was trying to sell the Wrangler before I had to move. I don't really want to sell it, since it will be like selling your own child, but the newer Cherokee is far more reliable, and I could really use the money. I wish there was some other way, but time is running out, so that's how it's going to be. I will probably regret selling the Jeep, but I'll just have to live without it.

School starts in about 10 days. I am nervous, scared, and excited all at the same time. I think once I am in town, all moved in, I will feel better. However, my body insists on being stressed out between now and then. I suppose it's time to do some more packing....

Monday, August 22, 2005

Fontana to Clingman's

Since I am soon to be moving to the coastal flatlands of southern Georgia, I thought that I would put my backpacking gear to one final test on the AT before I left the mountains behind. I put the projected offer on the table, from Fontana Dam to Clingman's Dome, and was able to snag one sucker, er uh, taker.

Day 1 (08/19/05) - So Andrew gets here Thursday evening, we pack that night, and leave way too early Friday morning for the Greater Smoky Mountain National Park along the North Carolina/Tennessee border. After we drop one car at the end, and drive to the start it is around 10am. We load up, walk a half mile across Fontana Dam, and realize that cloud above us is awfully dark. Too far from the safety of the Dam's Visitor Center, we take cover under a big tree, but getting soaked was inevitable. The first 4 miles were quite difficult, changing from an elevation of 1715' to 4020'. We stopped at a firetower to check out some views. Once up to the ridge line the hiking wasn't so bad, only minor ups and downs. We took a nice long break at the ridge, along with some mixing of Gatorade. Never has it tasted so good, mmmmmm. After a long 7 hours of hiking, we stopped at Mollie's Ridge Shelter for the night. After cleaning up down at the spring, I changed into some cleaner clothes, only to realize that had forgotten to pack a couple important items, extra boxers. Doh! So I solved that problem the easiest way possible. Aaaaahh! Is it breezy in here? 9.3M, 7hrs.

Day 2 (08/20/05) - We were by ourselves at the shelter overnight. We expected other hikers to arrive, but no one ever showed up. It was a very sticky and humid night at the shelter. The full moon didn't help by making ever shadow in the distance look like a bear. After pulling down the bear bag, filling up with water, and stretching, we set out for on our longest day of the three. ooh, oww, ooh, the legs were stiff. Still around mid-morning, I thought I saw something moving on the trail, about 100yds. ahead. It was a large black bear, but by the time we stopped he must have heard us (or smelled us), because he was blazing a new trail across the hill. He was basically a black blur, a very fast animal. There are approx. 1800-2000 black bears in GSMNP, so we saw one, we were happy.

Our next task was to top Little Bald, Rocky Top, and Thunderhead, 3 seemingly endless uphills. The fact that it was sunny w/ about 80% humidity didn't help either. We managed to make it to the top of each after many breaks, and pauses to catch our breath. There are some excellent views from the top of Rocky Top. I would have liked to have stayed longer on the summits, but the sun and heat on a tree-less mountaintop was incredibly draining. We needed some shade.

Once back down in the shade, we were quitely passing through some heavy brush and trees, only to come around the corner to see several large trees and bushes rustling as if they were in a hurricane. The shaking bushes were accompanied with loud footsteps, grunts, and growling noises. We jumped back around the corner and started making as much noise as we could. We never did see what it was, but assumed that it was a couple bears resting on the trail, and then running down the hill away from us. One however stayed on the trail growling at us, so we continued to yell, and slowly built up the confidence to peek around the corner. We made as much noise as possible for the rest of the day. Andrew was good at that. Finally, after the phrase "I'm sure this is the last gap" was repeated 5 times, we reached Derrick Knob Shelter for the night, and were relieved to see that it had a chain-link gate on the front of it. 11.7M, 9hrs.

Day 3 (08/21/05) - Again, no one showed up at the shelter to spend the night. It was another sticky night, but there was more of a breeze. After the morning routine, we got going on what we thought be a somewhat easier day w/ shorter mileage, excluding the dome at the end which rose over 6500'. We were wrong. Getting to the dome was the hardest part.

On a small hill before going up one of the last mountains, we were taking a much needed rest, laying on our packs. Just when I was at the point I realized I was sleeping, I heard some people talking. "Do you hear that, Andrew?" "yea" "Me too, sounds like people." So I start to stand up to greet these people and say hello, and simultaneously we hear some familiar rustling. Still thinking it's just the people coming up the hill, I get up to look, only to find a large black bear running directly at me at full speed. *oops, I crapped my pants* In that split second we both start yelling only to have the bear change direction about 15-20 ft. in front of us. Phew! Nothing gets your heart pumping like a 250lb. black bear charging at you. Then Bill & Ted come up the hill, and say hello. "Hey you guys, we just saw a bear on the trail. So watch out." Uh yeah, we saw him, thanks for scaring him our way.

Once we changed our shorts, we headed toward the final mountains. They were difficult and slow, but the isolation, the views, and the very cool breeze made it all worthwhile. Once you get that high, the terrain changes so much. It's like you are on a different world. It's kind of eerie, as there are no sounds other than yourself, the wind, and maybe a bird or two. I kept waiting to see Gollum following us when I looked back. After a very long day, we finally saw our destination in the distance, the Clingman's Dome parking lot. I have to say that I think it was the most beautiful parking lot I've ever seen. Since it is a touristy area, with the Dome and the views and all, we were looked at strangely as we walked to my jeep. Being all dirty, smelly, and carrying large packs. "Why?" one might ask. "Why not?" is the answer they get. 10.2M, 10.5hrs

Once down the hill into Cherokee, we rewarded ourselves each with 4 double cheesburgers and a large coke. It was wonderful. I am pretty sure school will determine how soon I return to the AT, but I will let you know next time I go, so we can go find some bears.

Tuesday, August 16, 2005

The devil is now is possession of my soul.

Or at least that is what it feels like. Just replace 'devil' with U.S. Dept. of Education, and replace 'soul' with half of my income for the next 12-30 years.

So now I am one of 'those' people, the one's with college loans hanging over their heads for what appears to be an eternity. The one's that use their loans as a perpetual excuse for being out of cash at inopportune times. The one's that never venture out to buy that new stainless grill, or killer cruise vacation, because their loans are "such a burden". That's me, Mr. In-the-red. :(

I'm sure it will be just fine, but the initial feeling of owing that much makes me feel slightly nauseous. "To my college education....." *clink*

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Magically Delicious??

Why do de always laugh when I say dat?

Hmmm, I don't know what to make of this. I have been a Lucky Charms fan for a very long time. However, I have never been a fan of chocolate flavored cereal, such as Count Chocula, Cookie Crisp, etc. If I wanted chocolate milk, I'd make chocolate milk. I don't think this new rendition of Lucky Charms is going to last very long. I do think that I should try it before I make my final decision, I just hope it isn't discontinued before I make it to the store.

Maybe it's just me, but I can't envision the commercials for this cereal without Lucky speaking in a deep Barry White-ish voice, with some soul music blaring. "Heeeey, Cool down my brothas, Why you hatin' fools alwayz gotta be all up in my Lucky Charms, yo?"

Thoughts? Reviews?

Sunday, July 24, 2005

Running Is Fun!

At least that's what I am trying to convince myself. After reading Kyle's inspiring post, I have almost talked myself into running today. Of course, I will be waiting until tonight when it's not 95 degrees outside.

Everyone has a list of things they don't want to do, but know they must complete those tasks eventually. Running is on that list for me. As Kyle said, it is never easy to start, but usually once I start I go in spurts, going crazy on that list, cranking out task after task with no problem, before I revert back to Lazy Smurf. This time I am trying to take running off that list, and putting it on my, dare I say it, Fun list.

I have decided to post my running log here to hopefully give myself motivation. This motivation will be inspired by the fact that everyone will be able to see how bad I do, should I do poorly. And then they will have the right to harass me for my poor schedule. Right now, all I can seem to do is provide a link for you to sign in to. I think a updating graph would be cool, but I haven't figured that out yet. UPDATE:Kyle has found a better log, and it is good. Problem solved. Feel free to harass, I'll need the encouragement.

Running stats: Coming Soon!! Available

Monday, July 18, 2005

Countdown

I need one of those countdown banners. Anyone know how to do that?

With school only a calm 95% assured for this fall, and before I've even completed all of the paperwork for this coming term, there is one thing that I have made definite, and that is my last day at SFI. Anyone own a Brontosaurus, because I am imagining 5pm on August 26 to play out a lot like Fred Flintstone leaving the rock quarry. I will no doubt miss (some of) the people, but I will definitely not miss the 40 hours a week. I know, I know. I will be doing a lot of hard, all-nighter work at school, but the 40 hr. work week was killing me. There are times when I could literally feel it sucking the life out of me. I need a change of pace, and I can't wait for it.

I will reflect later on my 5 years here in Hotlanta. Right now I can't think with that tick...tock...tick...tock noise going in the back of my head.

T-39 days and counting (29 if you don't count the weekends). Tick...Tick...

Wednesday, June 29, 2005

Google To Do List: Conquer Earth

Thanks to Google, you no longer need to plan long vacation drives to see all the cool places all over the world. Now you can just sit at your computer in your boxer shorts, soaking in the cool AC, and travel around the world.
First Google came out with Google Maps. That was cool. Then that branched from the US to the UK and everywhere else soon followed (zoom out). Not only do they provide a very detailed and easy to use map service, for directions, maps, etc., but they also offer a new satellite mapping feature, which is really cool, and distracting (especially at work). Obviously all of that was not enough for Google, because now there is Google Earth, which I am guessing will soon be the name of our planet, as Google rapidly conquers it. It's free, so go check it out. Or not, whatever.

Also, if you are just too lazy and want others to find all the cool stuff on the planet for you, just head over to Google Sightseeing for some easy finds. Enjoy.

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

Best . . . Baby . . . Ever!

Instead of making three different posts, I'll just consolidate the last week's activities.

Best man for the job, eh? What exactly is a best man supposedly best at anyway? All I know is that I am the best man, for Matthew's wedding at least. Cool. There were some differences of opinions in the last few weeks, but nothing that can't be resolved. I had my opinion, so I tossed it out there. Apparently everyone else has spoken there opinion as well and is in some kind of an agreeance of happiness with the whole wedding deal, so it's time to just leave it alone.
Back to the topic of the Best Man issue. What exactly are my duties? I think I get to throw a party, right? Any ideas?

Baby time! Congrats to Jayna and Kyle for the newest addition to the world, a wonderful baby boy named Cooper. I am happy to hear that Mom and Son are doing well and in good health. Kyle, I am sure you did a great job supervising. Have you ever see that movie 'Problem Child'? That's the future buddy, get ready. You have to watch out for those redheaded kids.
The Wilson family, and some friends here have asked for me to send their best wishes your way. Hopefully tonight will be a little less hectic than last night. Again, Congratulations and if you ever need Uncle Zach to help out, let me know. Sorry I can't help donate to the Cooper college fund, I'm workin' on my own right now.

Ever been to Savannah, Ga.? It's great. The parents, bro., and I made a trip down there this last weekend. I've visited once before, but I needed another 'pep rally' visit to get to motivated and focused again, and also to get better acquainted with my new city. What makes this visit different than the last is that now I know it's official, I will be going to school there in the Fall (that, and the folks were there this time to soak it all in). So, this time I was able to relax a bit and absorb the city around me, and all I have to say is: I am ready to go, now.
I made a large, life-changing decision to move away from my friends and family about five years ago, and it truly changed my life forever. Now I have figured out the next step in this big journey, and it's time to move forward. Hopefully these next five years will be as beneficial, blessed, and as exciting as the last five. The move last time was hard, physically, mentally, and emotionally, with all kinds of new things thrown in my face all at once. It was quite overwhelming and hard to deal with at times. I don't foresee it being much easier this time around. Now I have new friends and new family to leave behind. It will be a challenge, but it something that must be done. Since the last move, I have learned many things, how to deal with and without many things, but most importantly, that the best things in life are never left behind, but always with you. It is reassuring to know that what I am doing is right, and in the direction it was Intended to be, no longer just spinning my wheels, wasting time. A New Journey awaits. I am sure some will be documented here. Stay tuned.

That's enough for now.

"But you and I have been through this, and this is not our fate. So let us not talk falsely now, the hour is getting late."

Thursday, June 23, 2005

Whatever The eff That Means (ver. Z.0)

Nate did a "test" over on his blog, and after rummaging around on that site a bit, I found a "test" that better suited me than his (I'm only 36% Emo. *fake tears*). Here are the results:

I am 74% Video Game Addict.
I have a Video Game Problem
Video games are a big portion of my life, maybe too big of a portion. They are not a means of social interaction, despite what I might think. I should just go outside.


What problem? I don't have a problem!

Monday, June 06, 2005

Applicator error

I need to fire that person who put on my sunscreen this weekend. They suck. Oh wait, that was me. Yea, I look like a spotted cow. Moo! I guess the positive about it is that my entire body isn't that pink color. So, since I guess my applicator is fired, I am now hiring. Any takers? It pays good, with lots of benefits.

Wednesday, June 01, 2005

. . . and If I Don't Make It . . .

...know that I've loved you all along. Just like sunny days that we ignore because we're all dumb and jaded.

Well, it's no sunny day here. Maybe I can ignore the rainy days too. The weather is fitting, since it is also root canal day. Not really looking forward to it. However, it does get me out of work for a while and I will be subjected to various pain killers and anesthetics. I suppose that can be viewed as a plus. Bring on the uncontrollable drool and slurred speech. :/

Thursday, May 26, 2005

Panama, Suez, . . . Root?!?

Ah, the dentist's chair. It's been too long.

Rarely does a person set aside time specifically for large amounts of pain to be administered to themselves. Well, I have just done that. I just made an appointment with Dr. Mallik, Endodontist, so that he can physically hurt me for about 2 hrs. The excitement is overwhelming.

I love popcorn. Let me re-phrase. I enjoy eating popcorn. However, unintentionally chomping on popcorn kernels, coupled with laziness and a fear of dental tools, I have developed a nice broken tooth with exposed nerve endings. Fun! Not really. The next time I want a nice bag of buttery hot popcorn I will have to restrain myself as much as possible. Receiving pain, and having to pay someone money for the pain givin', is not something that I forsee as being enjoyable, or something that I will want to do again. So, no more popcorn for me. :(

Friday, May 20, 2005

Note To Self: Multi-tasking

  • Never try to pee and brush your teeth at the same time again. Too many unwanted things can happen. Multi-tasking is not always a good thing. Sometimes it is best to take your time.

Tuesday, May 17, 2005

I hate to be the sour grapes, but....

...December 31st. Capital W T F? Are you kidding me?

If everyone is just going to sit around saying "It's your wedding. You can do what you want.", then I guess I will have to be the one to say something. Or maybe I am just the only one who objects, I don't know.

Ok, let's observe the situation. Your getting married. Wahoo! Say your options for a wedding date are either in December or May/June. The only real difference between the two would be that by the time May/June comes around you will have graduated from college. Which is your instinctive choice?

I don't have a problem with weddings in December. That is fine. But the timing of a wedding in December is far more delicate than one occurring in the spring/summer months. Serious thought is required to plan an occasion such as this, you can't just show up when it's your cue. Here is a short list of things that I think should be considered before attempting a wedding in December, or any month for that matter.

Considerations
  1. December is the busiest, most hectic month of the year.
  2. Consider your guests, the distance they must travel, the location they must travel to, and the time of year you are asking them to travel (i.e. their vacation/holiday time)
  3. December is one of the colder, gloomier months of the year (less important, but a consideration nonetheless).
  4. Consider the difficulty and likeliness of successfully coordinating your wedding arrangements on a night that the year's largest party is occurring.
  5. Consider the emotions, ideas, and advice of both sides of the family, especially the parents.
There are plenty more, but that will do for now. I certainly hope you have considered these things before hastily picking a date. We are coming together to celebrate and help join families, but the celebration won't exist if no one can make it to the party. You are asking people to leave their families, their friends, and their homes at a time when they want most to be at home with their family and friends. The bottom line is this: consider others, not just yourselves. All of that other stuff comes second.

And if you don't take into consideration any of those things, then at least consider this. Things like this happen on New Year's Eve. Do you really want this at your reception? Granted, there will no doubt be drunk people at your wedding reception no matter the wedding date, but coupled with New Year's Eve could cause quite a mess.


Because sometimes you have to hang onto the floor to keep from falling off. Posted by Hello

I love you both, but no one else was going to say anything. I think it's best you know how people feel, or at least how I feel.

Monday, May 16, 2005

< tears >

Well, not quite. It's nice to come home to good news. I guess tomorrow I will call Mandy, my enrollment manager, and confirm my next step. I like how they promptly make you aware that you owe them money (3rd paragraph). Ah, that's ok. It's just money.


sweeet!! Posted by Hello

"To change the world, start with one step
However small, the first step is hardest of all"
-DMB, Stand Up, You Might Die Trying

Thursday, May 12, 2005

< drool >

just go ahead and add it to my xmas list.

watch me.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE:
SoroSuub X-34 Landspeeder
Hovers well, limited rust
2,000 credits, O.B.O.

Driving to work today, I noticed none other than the great Jedi master himself, Mr. Kenobi, driving the car in front of me. I didn't recognize him at first, since he was not in his X-34. During a brief window-to-window discussion at the redlight, he told me that the old speeder was just sucking up too much fuel, since his daily commute to Tosche station was spent mostly hovering in traffic, and he simply couldn't afford it anymore. Bummer, cause that is a sweet ride. So if you know anyone interested, let me know, I'll give you his cell #.

So, his new ride is a 2004 Lincoln Navigator. He said he liked the enclosed cabin the most, because it kept the sun off his noggin. However, he did say that is was not as fast or sleek as the X-34, so he lost some street cred when it came to picking up the ladies. He was hoping to get some 22's on it, and nice system in it by this weekend to help improve his odds.

I know you don't believe me, so here is a crummy pic of his personalized license plate as proof.


Posted by Hello

Thursday, May 05, 2005

Oh Snap!

I've done it again. I've, in some way or another, convinced yet another person to own an Xbox. Around Christmas time last year, my boss Jay, was looking for something for his son. He was pondering the purchase of an Xbox. I thoroughly convinced him to buy an Xbox so that his son would not have to play the inferior Playstation 2 anymore. I felt happy to know that I helped divert someone to the better console. His son, Thomas, now plays Halo2, and that's a good thing.

Also around Christmas, my original box was giving me fits. I fixed it, but in the time being I had to play some games. This required the purchase of another box, leaving me with two once the original was fixed. The original is now in the possession of Shannon, my roommate. He now is addicted to Crimson Skies, and the newly released Forza Motorsport (addictions don't take long to form, Forza came out yesterday.) He's not much of a gamer, but he did used to play the PS2, and now prefers his Xbox over it anyday.

I've come to learn this morning that Rob (co-worker), long-time PS2 and Gran Turismo 4 enthusiast (a.k.a. our office's un-official spokesman for how much better PS2 is over Xbox), as well as a self-proclaimed auto expert, is now the proud owner of an Xbox. So many times I have heard from him how PS2 will always be better than Xbox, and now he owns one. Granted, it was an anniversary gift from his wife, but she wouldn't have bought it if he didn't express intrest in one. We talk trash about PS2 all the time at work, and he happily defends it, but I think we finally broke him.

After discussing the newly released Forza this morning, he has stated that he will be purchasing it as well, even though he already owns GT4. He will probably tell us monday that Forza sucks compared to GT4, because I am sure he is still loyal to the PS2, but regardless, I am happy to know that another poor, misguided soul has experienced the right path when it comes to a video game experience. Now if I can only convince him to get a LIVE account, so I can beat him at his own game.

So that is three people I've helped see the light. Who will be next?

Wednesday, May 04, 2005

Such a relief

When someone gets into my car, and browses around my cd selection, they will see what most people will expect to see. Lots of good American rock. But what those people don't see, is the few cds that I have hidden behind other artists.

Kelly Clarkson is so awesome. Watching her go through the trials of American Idol was so inspirational. She has so much talent and I can only wish the best for her. Who would've known that her albums would contain worthy songwriting. Her lyrics contain so much substance and her voice is the only voice that do justice to those words. I enjoyed her first album, Thankful, more than her latestest release, but thats ok beacause Breakaway is starting to grow on me the more I listen to it. She will be coming to Atlanta this summer and I am on the list to get advanced tickets in the first 5 rows. From what I hear, she has been offered a cover spot on one of the next issues of Maxim. Which reminds me that I need to make sure my subscription is current.

Tuesday, May 03, 2005

Intentions

When writing a 'letter of intent' to a college, you would think they'd be happy enough with "I want to give you money to learn stuff there.", but evidentally it takes two more pages of writing to convince them.

Monday, May 02, 2005

I'm no Smoltz

I can't close. I have a problem with finishing what I've started, and I don't know why. My motivation comes in spurts, and when it starts to fade, it's gone in an instant. Then when it comes again, it has to be focused on something new, not something I've started and stopped before. I can't believe that we would
Lie in our graves
Wondering if we had
Spent our living days well

I can't believe that we would
Lie in our graves
Dreaming of things that we
Might have been.
I look around my room and see nothing but unfinished business. Books I haven't finished. Half written letters. Ideas of what I thought I wanted laying everywhere. A mess by more than one means.

It's like I am in a fog. I can't remember making the decisions I've made, or if any intelligent thought was put into them. I just wake up in the morning, and go about my obligated business, sleep, repeat. A cycle that I swear is killing some part of my insides.

What motivation do I need in order to wake up and realize how much of my life is being wasted? The sad part is that I am realizing it right now and most every day, yet I do nothing to change it. Why? What is it going to take?

Sorry this post wasn't actually more about baseball. That would have been more fun to read probably, since this is just a rambling of the mind, and not sports. On a more positive, and even sports related note, the Nationals are losing.

Sunday, May 01, 2005

FG vs. AD

First of all, I'm glad to see that the 2nd greatest animated series ever created has returned to my television screen. :) Happiness.

Second,
Family Guy > American Dad.

And that's final!

Of the two American Dad episodes that I have watched, I can't remember laughing once. Sad. I remember nearly dying of laughter from early Family Guy episodes, a trend which has continued through almost every episode. Seth should put all his focus on FG. You don't want AD to bring them both down. I'll give AD a few more episodes to make me laugh before it becomes banned from my television. If that happens, American Dad will join the likes of American Idol, anything falling under the category of "reality television", and finally, regular season NBA basketball.

"Who are those people in the corner?"

Just met 'The Crazies', I mean, soon to be in-laws at Elise's graduation party. I am just kidding. They are very nice, non-crazy people. It took a while for us Wilson's to get into the crowd to converse, so the first half of the party we just sat in the corner, like good little non-social butterflies. But, then the food was served, and that was as much of an ice-breaker as we needed. They made/served good food. Lunch was very satisfying. So that's a plus. We then proceeded to either tell or listen to the same stories 15 times in a row, as there was always at least one person not around the first 14 times it was told. Seriously, If I hear one more story about hurricane damage I am going to shoot myself. All in all, they were great people, and I am happy to have them joining the family. And no, for the 16th time, the wedding date has not been set yet.

Thursday, April 28, 2005

Guinea Pig No More

Being the oldest of three boys in my family, I must say that I am happy to be the oldest, simply because, well.... you're the oldest, and that kicks ass. But like everything else in life, it has it's disadvantages as well. The largest of these disadvantages is that your parents raise you during their rookie season, not letting you do anything, and basically making you a guinea pig for every new step of your life. The most notable steps are the first to have a curfew, first to drive, first to date, first to graduate high school, first to move away from home, etc., all of which your parents govern with an iron fist, all the while finding extra pleasure in embarrassing you at every possible moment. Well, I have personally witnessed the decline in parental strictness and the decline in need to embarrass, from my parents as my younger brothers have gone through the same things I did. I find the hypocrisy frustrating, but it's part of life I suppose, and I won't hold it against them forever.

One thing that I have not exactly been looking forward to is the day when my parents get to deal with their first wedding, first wife, first in-laws, etc. I don't know why I dread it, I guess just because it's next in line of the steps of life, and I know it's coming..... eventually.

As of last night, I am happy to announce that I will no longer be the guinea pig for the next few steps. The middle of us brothers, Matthew, has decided to step up and be the guinea pig, as he told me that he will be proposing to his girlfriend Elise tomorrow. Shhh! It's a secret. (but since no one reads this anyway, I doubt keeping it a secret until tomorrow will be a problem.)

I am very happy for the both of them, but also happy that I am not the first to jump. It will be quite interesting to see how the parents react to this one. I will be watching with a keen eye and taking notes to make sure my experience is more lax when the time comes, or else...

Now, I suppose it's time to plan the first bachelor's party. <>

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Vs.

Ok, here's the deal. I have only briefly put time into exploring this Blogger business, and probably the same amount of time exploring Xanga. In order to prevent myself from any brain overloading thought processes, like my own judgement, can anyone recommend or comment on either of the two services, and which you think is better?
You all probably think this one is better, but I thought I'd ask for some constructive critisism anyway. Peace