soul.of.mine

blue yonder

2010-12-07T13:52:00.001-06:00

Back in the summer we went to go pick some blueberries. Now those blueberries are in the form of a very tasty blueberry wine made by my father. He asked me to make some label art for the bottle. Since every digital device I touch seems to explode these days, I am currently without the crutch of Photoshop, so this was a fun exercise for my hand as there was no ctrl-z to help. In the end, I am very happy with the way it turned out. The inspiration for the label came while we were out on a family sailing trip to see the home town Blue Angels fly their season ending air show at NAS Pensacola in November.

Blue Yonder | 2010

Touchablue Berry Farm, Molino, Florida

12% A.B.V.

A couple more pics @ Flickr.

Marathon: 365 days and counting

2010-11-05T15:13:00.000-05:00

Not much to update on regarding my preparation for the Rock'n'Roll Savannah Marathon next November. I have been keeping to my moderate schedule of running whenever the hell I feel like it at whatever pace and distance feels good....minus one time.

I will admit that I consciously chose one run about a week or so ago to 'go fast' and boy did I. With my new Garmin GPS on my wrist I could tell exactly how FAST I was going. I won't blame my addition of fancy running gear for what happened next, but I will say it was probably a combination of the watch and my ego. That being said, my body did what it was told. It went fast. Then I did what it told me...by not being able to walk effortlessly for about a week. The morning after, something was definitely not right. A pulled muscle at my best guess, on the outside of my left leg. The one you feel if you point your toes down and inward.

The first response received was that "its probably because you weren't wearing shoes." Of which I disagree. Yes, I may not have received the injury if I was wearing shoes, but who knows what else I may have suffered had I been. The problem, shod or not, was that my running form was improper. Running unshod comes pretty naturally after some time doing it, though I had only traveled at speeds that were 'natural' for me. By forcibly increasing the speed of my run, my body could manage the movement, but not control it. This allowed for improper, over exaggerated form that was not apparent until the run was over. Bottom line, it was my own damn fault for being impatient. Almost two weeks later and I am still feeling remnants of the injury. I have been sticking to dog walks and a cycle here and there. The couple short runs that I have managed felt ok during, but after the pains returned to some degree. So I am continuing to take it easy until all pains have ceased. I don't expect this to impact my running schedule, as I have none, but I imagine I will have to start hashing out some sort of vague schedule before too long.

With the clock ticking to next November, I thought it was appropriate that there was a NYTimes article by Christopher McDougall yesterday, were he stated his reasoning for returning to the marathon; an event he had sworn off due to his past injury and frustration with, put simply, the idea of the marathon. A good, quick inspirational read.

365 days and counting...

practice fun

2010-10-29T17:41:00.002-05:00

Upon visiting Christopher McDougall's blog today, I see he has posted one of his recent lectures; this one via TEDxPhoenixville. I thought I would share it, as he again speaks about barefoot running, but also about having fun while doing so. To me, that was one of the main reasons I began the whole barefoot thing; to make running and being healthy enjoyable again. But this lesson does not simply apply to running, I feel it can also be extended and updated to fit into our modern lifestyles. I think it would be a mistake to forget how we arrived here at the present.

I agree, as McDougall points out, that we should all:
:have more connection with the Earth on a daily basis.
:live in the realm of pleasure, instead of fear.
:remember our childhood more often...and practice fun.

others

2010-10-25T16:31:00.013-05:00

This last week I have had the great opportunity to aide a deserving family in receiving a brand new home (via ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition) and as I sit today job hunting, thinking of the future, of what I want to be, what I want to do with my life, it occurs to me that I want be in the 'helping others' business. In a way, I have always known this, and I think that is what has always intrigued me about architecture. Underneath all the other designer bullshit, the bottom line is that you are creating an intimate space for someone to live their life with greater ease, comfort, and pleasure than they did the day before. To me, that is what it is all about.

This realization has been building for some time now, and as it does feel amazing to have finally realized what gives me passion to work, it also greatly reduces my list of available jobs (to my knowledge). It seems emerging from college and finding the 'right job' in a recession (or whatever this is) is increasingly complicated by having newly discovered morals and an actual positively motivated and enforced goal in my head. Nonetheless, I have a goal. There will be highs, there will be lows, but the desire remains. It is what makes you.

Though I have made this realization, I still battle daily with this goal, relentlessly questioning the change this desire will no doubt bring to my life. Should I abide to these morals strictly? or should I take a job that doesn't wholeheartedly support my visions? Right or wrong, I feel that letting go of my morals effectively compromises my education. I understand compromise is inevitable, but how much is OK to let slide? Right now I find it hard to entertain anything that is even remotely immoral.

The other side of this mental battle of job searching, similar to - yet completely separate - from my professional morals, are my personal desires for living happily and the location said job takes me to. How important is it that a job takes me to: a new place or keeps me home? a place where I have friends or where I know no one? a place that is near water or mountains...or nothing at all? a place that is rural or urban, fast or slow? How important is it? The list could go on and on. Does it really matter? No, probably not. But then that is the problem with being a easily contented explorer. I know I can be happy anywhere, with anyone, all the time, no matter where I settle and the explorer in me is wanting change, constant discovery and uncertainty. In all honestly, it depends on my mood when I wake in the morning. Getting up on the proverbial 'right side of the bed'...with having grown a pair overnight and being ready to jump or remaining a cowardly lion without.

I like pictures in posts, so here are some for you. This is the Gaston family's new home. It doesn't really snow in Florida but Hollywood doesn't seem to care. We were told the episode will air December 12.

The Gaston's received scholarships and a new vehicle as well.

More snow than we have had in a while...and in October, of all times.

Bus driver, move that bus!!!

new toy

2010-10-09T21:33:00.001-05:00

Received a new toy for my birthday; a Garmin Forerunner 110. I have been known to love a little statistical analysis every now and again (or always), and my $10 Target watch disappeared mysteriously from the top of the Jeep. I know I left it there.

This Garmin is the entry-level device of their GPS wrist watch line, but its functions are more than enough for me right now; tracking HR, calories, pace, time, and of course, location. All the others seems a bit too bulky, with minimal trade-off in my opinion. Once I get more into biking (and actually start swimming) I may need more, but I will cross that bridge when it arrives.

I feel a hint of freedom now. Before I would usually plan out where I was going to run before I hit the road, making a mental image on Google Earth as to where mile markers were on my course. Any stray from that course would not allow my internal calculations to make much sense, plus manually logging a new course every time you are out can get tiring. It was just easier to stick to the predetermined path. Well, no more. Perhaps I can reach a little calculation-free running, clearing the mind more than normal.

peace.

emotion

2010-09-30T09:53:00.003-05:00

I am a little over half way through my latest book, My Stroke of Insight by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, and one of her realizations on recovery hit the spot on an issue I have been thinking about for some time. I have heard this type of speak before, but always in a very metaphoric, fantastic sort of way (read: hippie-speak) and never from a scientific point of view. So I thought I would share an excerpt from her book.

A very brief synopsis: Dr. Taylor is a neuroanatomist (brain doctor) who experienced first-hand what a failing brain feels like, living to tell the experiences of her stroke and how she recovered. Here she speaks of recovery after losing her left brain functions (calculation, past/future, details, "brain chatter").

"One of the greatest lessons I learned was how to feel the physical component of emotion. Joy was a feeling in my body. Peace was a feeling in my body. I thought it was interesting that I could feel when a new emotion was triggered. I could feel new emotions flood through me and then release me. I had to learn new words to label these "feeling" experiences, and most remarkably, I learned that I had the power to choose whether to hook into a feeling and prolong it in my body, or just let it quickly flow right out of me.

I made my decisions based upon how things felt inside. There were certain emotions like anger, frustration or fear that felt uncomfortable when they surged through my body. So I told my brain that I didn't like that feeling and didn't want to hook into those neural loops. I learned that I could use my left mind, through language, to talk directly to my brain and tell it what I wanted and what I didn't want. Upon this realization, I knew I would never return to the personality I had before. I suddenly had much more say about how I felt and for how long, and I was adamantly opposed to reactivating old painful emotional circuits.

[....]

Emotional healing was a tediously slow process but well worth the effort. As my left brain became stronger, it seemed natural for me to want to "blame" other people or external events for my feelings or circumstances. But realistically, I knew that no one had the power to make me feel anything, except for me and my brain. Nothing external to me had the power to take away my peace of heart and mind. That was completely up to me. I may not be in total control of what happens to my life, but I certainly am in charge of how I choose to perceive my experience."

- Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph.D., My Stroke of Insight, (p.120-1)

100+

2010-09-08T09:36:00.002-05:00

What a delightful weekend - turned week - visit to the Atlantic. St. Augustine is a lovely city. It holds much of what I love about Savannah. My main purpose for visiting was accomplished in the first 15 minutes of my arrival: delivering items to the bro's new apartment. The secondary purpose wasn't revealed until I felt it was time to leave: a mental break from the rut and the routine.

I managed to meet a bunch of cool new people, get some burden-free alone time, and, believe it or not, actually get some work done. Finished my book, too; Born to Run. It took a while, with a few week-long dry spells here and there, but I slammed through the second half all at once. I good read for any level of runner, not just the unshod and ultra types. I also managed to get in a couple of runs in unfamiliar territory. Always a nice refresher as you really have no idea where you are going, or how far you are going. My last run was over 6 miles and felt like 3. Crazy.

When logging the run, I realized I had just crossed over 100 miles of running barefoot. More if you count all the Rowdy walks, but the counting is not what matters. If my past experimental endeavors where to bear any resemblance to this lifestyle change of going bare, then it wouldn't be out of the question to begin seeing it fade away. However, I am pretty sure this one is going to stick, as I see no need to go back. I enjoy running...again? (I think I liked it before).

stroke of insight

2010-08-18T21:28:00.001-05:00

While at B&N tonight looking for my next book to read, Mark Sisson's The Primal Blueprint, I came across another book that may jump ahead in queue.

The book in question is by Jill Bolte Taylor, PhD, titled creatively My Stroke of Insight. I first came across her story during my thesis work (and what a beautiful, humbling, and hopeful story it is) in the form of a TED lecture; a neuroanatomist who experiences first hand a massive stroke and lives to tell about it.

I have watched the video quite a few times since then, mostly when I need a little grounding or inspiration. I find it to be very powerful and motivating, so needless to say I was excited to stumble upon it in book form tonight.

video@TED.com

Marathon: Day 1

2010-08-05T11:30:00.003-05:00

Ask me why I did it in 457 days and again 26.1 miles later, and you may get two different answers. I have been needing a goal of some kind for my running. I have not taken it too seriously in a few months knowing full well that having a goal is a good way to stay in some kind of shape.

Upon seeing the announcement of Savannah getting a marathon, it sounded like a fitting goal; a way to conquer two goals at once, complete a long distance run and guarantee a return trip to Savannah.

My furthest run (that I can remember) was a cool, rainy 11.3 back in January, with shod work that could have been the culprit for my once aching knees.

Since I have not been wearing my running shoes for several months now, I see no reason to put them back on. I find I enjoy running a lot more when it is not about the time or speed, but about how it makes my body feel. It can be quite a rush.

So...let the count down begin. Long way to go. 457 days and counting...

philosophy

2010-07-20T15:16:00.006-05:00

"Universal concern is essential to solving global problems.
Each individual has a responsibility to shape institutions
to serve the needs of the world."
His Holiness the Dalai Lama

So....what is my philosophy? What are my ideals? On architecture or on life?

Well, lately they have become one in the same, and I am enjoying that; and though I have yet to apply and execute my ideals outside of student projects, I can tell you that they are not static, they are ever-changing, growing with each new experience. And, to me, that is exciting.

Here. Now, as I am sitting down this morning, typing to muted SportsCenter, at this moment everything seems so very clear, so very simple. Lucky you. Lucky me. Let us start at the base of all things.

[...if a bulleted list is more your cup of tea, I won't judge, just scroll to the end...]

We humans are driven by purpose. Daily we strive to define ourselves - with education and knowledge, with responsibility and order, and with collection of material possessions - hoping to appease our mind into believing we have a reason for breathing. Therefore, a measurable unit has been bestowed upon the purpose we seek; as all the emotion that lies within that of joy, peacefulness, comfort, and ease become condensed into one all-encompassing unit: Happiness.

As we search for purpose, we discover glimpses of happiness which in turn births desire. Desire is the map that leads up back to those happy moments. Our true Self is revealed in the route we take to return to those moments.

Now I understand that this psycho-babble may sound a bit flaky to your ears, so let us "cut the bull" as they say, and talk like 'normal' people. Let us be honest with ourselves. As long as we are human, one fact will always remain: We could all live better. There is no denying it; you and I are not the best stewards to a planet that has given us everything.

Every being is an equal part of this great ecosystem, with each action affecting one's surroundings and one's neighbors. There is a give and a take. And frankly, the way we humans live now is despicable. All take, no give. Little to no concern of other beings. Some days I dream of being another species so I could guiltlessly blame the humans, however I am indeed just as much of the problem as you and everyone else.

The bottom line is this: We all carry a responsibility to our Self, to our neighbor, to our earth, and to the universe of beings we reside within, to hold our each and every action accountable; whether its result be positive or negative. Everyone is presented with millions of choices a day; each of us being exactly where we are in life because of the decisions made from these choices and for no other reason. Blame and excuse are useless endeavors. Hold accountable your actions. Be responsible for your life.

That being said, living in a life that means nothing and everything at the same time, I find my enjoyment within the sub-worlds of architecture, design, and nature. As I search for happiness in these worlds, I have discovered that it usually arrives when in the company of friends, like-minded souls, and souls conjoined by an experience. The pleasure comes from being able to exchange existing knowledge for new knowledge; pleasure is growth. Growth in this manner is essential to sustain life.

I feel this idea is very true with architecture as well. As an architect, one holds a unique power to sculpt and mold the physical environment that we live our lives within; a profession not to be taken too lightly or too seriously. It is important for those which design to understand and respect the responsibilities of their role, to not promote their power to create, but to aide, guide, and engage their client with the proper exchange of knowledge to perpetuate further growth, and inevitably, further happiness. The architect's role is to consciously guide.

"So you are saying....we live horrible, destructive lives, struggling to find happiness in all the wrong places....and architects can save the world."

Yep! That's pretty much it. :)

Look. We sprang from this Universal ecosystem and were living just dandy. Somewhere along the way we started idealizing one being to be better than another. The "I am better than you! Me Monster mentality can be very hard to control; its display being a sign of mental lapse / weakness.

I am better than you? No way! There could not be a greater mistake. I am you. We are each a cell in a much larger organism; each of us with our own life-sustaining task. Fighting against this nature and the natural way of things is not going to get us anywhere.

As a designer, I feel it is necessary to mirror this idea in my work, not to fight nature, but to follow and expand upon the cues of natural systems; creating circulation that follows the flow of the site, letting its context define the parameters of materiality; striving for balance in all phases of design.

We have all the proper ingredients for happiness in life | architecture, we must simply use them correctly. We must live more responsibly, more consciously, becoming a more sustainable society if we wish to last long enough to enjoy our life's efforts; as our current trajectory is not one of much promise.

I feel that those who call themselves mighty Architects, those with the power to create, should lead the way; it being their responsibility as a human being and as a designer to guide others away from mindless, monotonous despair and toward creative, meaningful happiness. The growth, that knowledgable exchange, must begin in and around the spaces we inhabit. What a grand opportunity we have been given. Let us not waste it.

................................................................................................................................

Ok, so that was a long version. Believe it or not, there is a longer version - case in point: my MArch Thesis.

"How about a short version? Perhaps a synopsis or a greedy little list of wants, wishes, and thoughts?"

Sure, how about this:

I think we can all live better lives than we are currently. I don't know exactly how to change that just yet, but I am eager and willing to find out how. Our lives kind of depend on it.

I like architecture, in particular its play with light and material. It can be beautiful, moving, comforting, and, at its best, invisible. I think it is a very misunderstood and under-valued resource. Quality design can save lives in more ways than one.

Simplicity and complexity need each other to exist. Balance is the key. Let's take a break on the complex for a bit and see what happens. Unplug yourself. "Do you think that is air you are breathing?"

I wish to live a happy life; sustained through a natural means and not through waste and petty greed.

I wish to help others however I can. Money and fame sound pretty cool, but I could not care less about attaining them. Happiness exists not in them, but in a balance of equal parts love, work, and play. I wish to spend my days seeking this balance.

If when we wake in the morning, our first thoughts are not of humility, - a thankfulness to be alive, to be seeing the daylight, to be breathing the air - then I suspect a changing of perspective is in order.

Sounds simple enough, right?

"The hardest thing in the world is to simplify your life.

It is so easy to make it complex."
Yvon Chouinard

180° SOUTH

2010-06-18T09:10:00.006-05:00

Netflix'ed an unknown film the other day and was pleasantly surprised by a beautiful and moving experience. The film only adds to the building fire within to set out into the unknown as I so badly wish to do. It captures so many of my wishes, in fact, it seems as if someone has been recording my dreams and made a documentary of it. :)

"the hardest thing in the world is to simplify your life. it is so easy to make it complex."

video@hulu.com

Make per Month - May

2010-06-11T12:31:00.005-05:00

yep, another simple box. I know it is boring, but I enjoyed giving the last usable pieces of that shipping palette a second life. Not much left is usable.

This time I tried to make a square. Figured that if I couldn't make a square out of wood I probably shouldn't be fooling around with it. I think it came out pretty good. Same as before, plenty of minor flaws, if you want to call them that, but I enjoy them just the same.

Not sure if I will making anything for June yet. Have not decided. Need to return focus to my website and job-hunting and all that jazz during my spare time, whether I like it or not. (plus the World Cup just started, so that may eat at my free time).

bandwagon

2010-06-06T09:37:00.001-05:00

so again, I will admit I am one who....wait. when did this blog become a confessional? ........hmm, well, whatever works.

Yea, I am jumped on my fair share of bandwagons over the years. I have seen aspects of myself that echo that of the Agent Smith mantra, that being we humans are "a disease", spreading and consuming like a virus. I discover something that is enjoyable, it is consumed relentlessly until there is nothing left of either it or myself, or both.

The other half of this is patient, strength, willpower, all that other stuff that sounds amazing, but requires a completely opposite state of mind. While this has been my latest craze, I haven't really acted upon it. I still consume and waste, wandering aimlessly in a pattern that in the end will lead nowhere. It is only the brief glimpses of this other side, this patient/willpower side, that snap one out of the 'virus' mode.

The thing is, you can never be on one side or the other completely. Some little spark will always light up when you get to far to one side, reminding you that the other side has benefits that you want to experience, forget the consequences. Ultimately there is only one consequence that really matters, one that you can't overcome or out live, and that is death. And to many, that isn't even a consequence.

Both of these sides are just testing the boundaries of our living life. One protects and secures us from pain, though it tends to be inherently boring in the end, the other brings as close to death as possible though excitement and immediate pleasure. I will agree that these sides exist, but not that one is better than the other. What bothers me is the idea of self-balancing these sides. We aren't in control of most what happens to us, though that doesn't mean we didn't bring it on to our self.

I have had my spurts of spontaneity over the years (call them bandwagons if you like, whatever) but they always fizzle to monotony. The monotony builds, filling the desire for radical change until there is an explosion of something new. While what I do probably isn't nearly as exciting as what other people do on a daily basis, I really don't care. I have to make my life enjoyable, and while much of that for me includes making others happy, the root of it all remains to be my happiness. And I that is not selfish, that is the truth.

Over the last year or so of discovering more deeply this other side, the patience/willpower side, I feel I have learned a great deal about myself, and have indeed strengthened my desire for a greater understanding of peace. However, I can feel myself raising the bar of patience, raising the bar of monotony, meaning that when the explosion comes it will be without question greater than the last, and further out to left field than before. There will be no explanation. No apparent reason to the casual observer. While I assure there is little I do without reason, even if that reason is complete spontaneity. Now I see this a completely positive thing, and I await this next "thing", I wonder if it is healthy, "good in the long run", etc. But then a second later, I don't care. What is the point of living and breathing if you are constantly questioning everything? You think that is air you are breathing?

SO...I keep seeing large, distant opportunities that would be great changes. Few of them are related to Architecture unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, I can't tell. Why is trying to live in the moment seem so difficult? If I keep waiting for the 'spark' everything will just walk right on by, so I may just pick the next thing that comes along. Why not?

oil

2010-06-02T22:41:00.000-05:00

So I am sitting in the auto service shop today, waiting for my oil to be changed in the Jeep, trying to read...but I become distracted by the conversation of other waiting patrons who are watching the news up on the corner TV. According to the tone of their conversation, the approaching oil spill in the Gulf is the first sign of the apocalypse. Our lives are over. Pity us. Blame this. Blame that. It's the president's fault, etc, etc.

I wanted to say so badly that it wasn't anyone's fault but their own. They are demanding this oil to be obtained. Though I had to restrain myself, as I had no place to speak....as I am waiting for my oil to be changed...in my gasoline driven vehicle. Again I am reminded that there is never a reason to blame anyone else for what is happening in your own life.

The "Oil Forecast" (which the scrawny little weatherman dude on the local news has adopted to his forecast; there are doppler-like graphs and everything) says that the oil should be arriving tomorrow. Lovely. Perhaps I should visit the beach tomorrow and take one last look at the snowy white sand.

Yeah, it is going to suck...probably for a long time, but it is not the end of the world. These are simply the consequences of our collective actions. Hopefully it will help change the minds of us oil-consumers to find other means of energy and other modes of transportation.

respect karma.
peace.

Make per Month - April

2010-05-20T12:30:00.003-05:00

So my good friend Despina formed a wonderful idea in her brain a few months ago. That being we art students haven't really MADE anything since we left Savannah after graduation. This is very true. Many of us have been busy with the new job, or the lingering job hunt, and not been inspired to make much of anything other than a depression in the sofa for some reality television.

Des collected addresses from friends and friends-of-friends, via Facebook, shuffled them all up and dispensed them to us, giving everyone a random person to make something for.

I have to say I was a touch nervous at first, having not really ever made anything in the sense that many of the other participants make. I was an architecture student. We made sketches and models, not exactly the productions many of the other artists make. Art, for sure, just a very different approach to making.

I decided to explore some woodworking for my first assignment as I have always been interested in it and I have ample equipment to begin learning in my father's garage. As per Zach, the sketches began as something that seems simple and logical, only for the final product to be far simpler than expected, with only a glimmer of resemblance to the first sketch. I made a box. Can't get much simpler.

There are more photos on Flickr, as well as photos of the sweet little black book that someone made for me.

Now it is almost the end of May and I haven't even started on this month's Make. Chances are I will explore the box again. I figure I could try something new, but the first one had plenty of little flaws and mistakes, which to be honest I really liked in the end, though I would like to give it another shot. I still have leftover material from the first one. I busted up an old wooden palette my dad had sitting aside waiting for a trip to the dump. I really enjoyed giving a piece of it a second life. I think there may be a few more good pieces left waiting for a rebirth of sorts.

peace.

sleepless

2010-05-17T00:08:00.002-05:00

Ok, I'll admit it. There really is no point in hiding it; the concept of death scares the bejesus out of me. The fact that it is coming and there is nothing I can do to stop it. This will cease.

It never bothers me during the day though, always while an inch away from a good night's sleep. Then..BAM! Wide awake feeling so incredibly small and helpless. It doesn't happen very often, but when it does, man does it eff with my head. Though as I type, coming down, relaxing a bit, I realize it does change my point of view on a lot of things; mostly regarding how little everything matters. The things that are troublesome and stressful during the day, or what my plans are tomorrow, they all become immediately minuscule and irrelevant. How did I just go from feeling so fearful to fearless? Weird.

Oh and in case you were wondering, watching the first 20 minutes of Saving Private Ryan on TV while trying to fall asleep probably isn't the greatest idea. Better switch it over to something mindless.

I can't wait for tomorrow.

planetwalker

2010-05-15T14:21:00.030-05:00

Today I finished reading a book. For many that is not much of an accomplishment, however my tendency is to begin and never finish reading for whatever reason. I began this book the day I completed my thesis in Savannah, several months ago now. I was released from my bonds of a Master of Architecture degree and the feeling was amazing. I was free, but it was also a rather scary moment in a pleasurable sort of way. A very strange feeling.

Leaving the Architecture building in the late afternoon I began to wonder what I would do with the remainder of my day. It wasn't too late to hit the road, but I didn't want to leave Savannah. It looked so different now. I was a bit sleep deprived so driving was not really a healthy option. My accommodations for my return visit to Savannah had expired, and though I knew I could call any of my several friends in town for a place to crash, I decided to embrace this exciting feeling of freedom. I wanted to be as independent as possible.

So...what to do? Everything in my car was related to the last year and half of archi-torture (as some laughingly put it) and I had no desire to look at any of it to pass the time. Digging through my car I found a book that I had bought a long time ago, at least a year in advance, maybe more. It, like many other things in my life, had been buried by "work". "When was the last time I read a book that wasn't about architecture?" Unlocking my bike from the back of the Jeep, I rode over to a favorite cafe and began reading. After some time there, I went out to celebrate a friend's birthday. A couple beers later and with the cafe now being closed, I was again faced with the uncertainty of what came next. I made my way to the only place I knew would still be open, the library, which was open until 1am. Not really a place I wanted to be, but I did not care as I began digging back into the book.

"Where has this book been all my life....or least in the last year?" Dr. John Francis, author of this book Planetwalker, was speaking as if from inside my head, somehow managing to piece together all of my fragmented ideas into one simple and fluid stance. At that moment I credited the coincidence to the status of my newly weightless and very exhausted mind, though it did not prevent my mind from entering a state of awe. So when the library dimmed their lights to close, I just walked outside to the Jeep and drove to first place that came to mind.

Now, I must say, I have many theories on life, all of them certainly uncertain in my brain. Some times they appear fluidly and cohesively making absolute sense, and an hour later they contradict the previously certain theory with an equally viable "excuse". Whatever the case may be, or perhaps, whatever the cause may be....this was one of the most memorably joyous nights of my life. I have never felt so high. And the funny thing was that nothing really happened. There was nothing normal happening for sure, nothing which I regarded as entertainment, nothing prescribed to create this joy, just the fact that I was alive and free in the world.

That was all I needed and that is all I need now. This echoes much of what John Francis had written about and explored in his journey. So...as usual, just as I feel I have described a thesis of architecture that pertains to our human choices being the driver of our lives, I am smacked in the face with unbelievable coincidence which seem anything but human as I just happened to begin reading these like thoughts on the day I become free. Much like the coincidence that I happen of upon Francis' beautiful TED lecture the day I finish his book. Regularly frequenting TED.com I have yet to see his talk until today.

Coincidence is a funny thing, and I have yet to understand its place and its meaning to my life. I wonder if this is the god so many people speak of, or if it is just the chance...the result...of this probability equation we call Life on Earth.

His book was quite inspiring. I have had many aspirations to get up and leave as he did, but nothing has moved me yet to go anywhere, so I wait. As always, I make up time lines, agendas, and orders of things, all becoming excuses to not leave, not to do, not to make. My freedom of a few months ago has already been clouded with other "obligations", most of them revolving around money, an object I would love to omit from my life. Thankfully, I believe that my soul will take my body where it needs to be in order to create happiness for both realms, so...what to do next?

Here is John's TED video that I came across today. A very refreshing point of view. I hope you enjoy.

peace.
zach.

I feel the earth move under my feet

2010-04-03T12:00:00.004-05:00

Today's Run: 6.2 miles @ 11:32

Exiting the shower today after my run, it is apparent that it is a cleaning day, as Carole King is blaring over a vacuum cleaner.

Went out for a longer run today...longer that is for barefoot. In my opinion, it makes little sense for me to call a run slow or fast anymore. It has become more about how comfortable it is, and how well it feels to my body. In that sense today's run was great. If you look at the time, yea, perhaps it was slow.....whatever. By the time I looped back to the house, calculated later at 6.2, I felt I could easily withstand another lap. However my tender feet objected. They had enough and were ready for a break.

It is hard to restrain myself sometimes from running faster and longer. The thing about barefoot is that my feet immediately tell me that it is not a good idea. Yea, I could do it anyway, but all body parts are not on board for it just yet. In this case, my feet. Today we took it easy and enjoyed the nice weather and scenery.

Today, hitting that stride correctly was off and on, but man, when it hit right the feeling was sublime. Couldn't feel any impact with the road, no aching joints or muscles, all muscles not being used were relaxed (or where quickly told to relax and responded accordingly). It feels as if you could run forever. The thought would pop into my head as to who or what was actually in control of this bodily motion. Is it me? No, it couldn't be me, I am thinking about this....and then of course concentration was lost, and the stride collapsed. Ha. More practice, less thinking.

I really enjoy running on the weekends around the neighborhood. Everyone is outside, working and playing. Such a reassuring feeling. Running during the week, I begin to wonder if people ever come out of their houses. Though I have noticed a trend. I cannot decide if it is purely coincidence or actually a deliberate action reflecting one's personality, but as I have been running more and more barefoot, I have noticed more and more that people who are outside in their driveway, fumbling in the garage, working outside, whatever, tend to retreat to their garage and close their garage doors as I pass by. This is probably purely coincidence, but its increased rate of occurrence begs the weary running mind to question it to be a cold shoulder, a coping mechanism for a persistent fear, or perhaps a method of avoiding confrontation or conflict within their personal space. Some people have an extended gaze, a wave, a smile, a few words (today's comment, regarding the running style: "You know that's how the Greeks used to do it." yes sir.) others seem to flee and hide, refusing to allow the idea to enter their mind. Perhaps they fear a feeling of guilt for their chosen lifestyle, or perhaps they are just heading inside from a long day's work, or from getting the mail. More research is necessary. I will continue to poll my running.

The feet are a bit tender after today's run, that I will admit, but nothing else is aching. It should be noted that while shod I can only mange 4-5 miles before feeling knee pain. Haven't had knee pain in weeks. The feet will strengthen, that I know, so I will gladly exchange knee pain for some tender feet.

Heard this phrase for the first time in a long time the other day. Sounds awkward and perhaps cliche, but who cares...

Carpe diem!

Have a great day. peace.

a new day

2010-03-24T08:57:00.001-05:00

...so today I am finally beginning to feel as if something is different. Something has changed; something is different. Ah, yes! No overwhelming thesis burden. Over the last month or so, I managed to crack down on distractions the best I could and cranked out this Master of Arch. thesis project. It's done. woohoo! party! yea!!

Yea, ok. So there was minimal fanfare, though that is to be expected. Several 'congratulations' from important people, which felt good on the inside. Though deep down there, on the inside, I know the project is only just started. When people ask what my thesis was about I can hardly answer them. Sometimes I just say it was a 'community center', other times I will just add a recital of the title hoping that it will suffice. Then there are the surprising times when I explain it perfectly, making me wish for a personal dictator to rewind the tape so I can hear it explained for myself. These brief moments provide the comfort I need to move on. Yea, maybe I can't describe it right every time, but it's in there somewhere. If we hang out enough, maybe it will pop out one day while you are around.

Looking back I can see clearly that this project is exactly what I wanted it to be. Some of the first writings in my sketchbook/journals were about the level of self-education that must exist, the open minded-ness for change that must exist, and the acceptance of ignorance that must exist. This project was a self-education. It awakened something new within me that I cannot fully explain; something which provides great optimism as I know it has yet to be fully realized, leaving the opportunity to remain out there for the taking. I have no idea what to do next, what the next step in my life is, only that there is nothing holding me back from attaining anything I want. A view on life which has also revealed how much other people are unhappy, constantly complaining instead of doing, solving, adjusting themselves to reach for happiness. The phrase "I would love to do that, but I can't because...." has become all too common in my conversations with others, and is quickly becoming a pet-peeve. Seriously, you are going to surrender your short life experience on such a flimsy excuse? For your sake, I hope you reconsider. I know it has become cliche, but you can do anything you want at any time.....yes, right now, tomorrow, whenever you want. There are no excuses; minus one, the questioning the quality of your own decision making. You are where you are because you chose to be. Nothing else.

I have been telling myself that I need to make a list of things I would like to do, just to get all the ideas visible at once, as they are currently scattered and ranging greatly in effort and direction. Last night I finally sat down and made a crude list. Perhaps I will revise it and post it later.

Ok, that is enough time behind the computer for the moment. Time to go enjoy the day. I am not sure where I first heard this advice, but I find its application brings immediate calm. Make it a daily practice to open a window. Do it while driving, while at the office, while at home. Just open it up and you will feel better, immediately grounded and reconnected to your world. Disregard the weather. If you cannot accept all forms of weather as pleasant and necessary, how can you expect to live happily?

peace.

naked feet

2010-02-08T22:55:00.006-06:00

I never really noticed it, but over the last few years I have grown out of wearing shoes. Living in a corporate world, you pretty much have to wear them for most of the day, despite the fact that you are sitting down most of that time (depending on your job). I have never been much of a shoe person, but I never minded them much either. The combination of my return to a college lifestyle and the dreadful heat that becomes commonplace in the South, my lifestyle the last few years has only strengthened my enjoyment of wearing minimal footwear. Aside from formal occasions, and the rare winter weather in Savannah, I would rather be wearing sandals (or sock-less Sperrys) if footwear were to be required.

In December, I wanted to start up running again, not having committed to it seriously since high school cross country, over a decade ago. I'm not sure why this fact of not liking much shoe on my foot didn't cross my mind then, but it didn't. I went out and bought a brand new pair of shoes. It is just what you do when you want to run. You need a nice pair of shoes, right? To make you run faster? To stay injury-free you need the right pair? It is what I have always done in the past, why should this time be any different?

Well, I have always heard about it, but never taken it too seriously, as it seemed like a gimmick or something for the uber-extreme runner, or for the speedy Kenyan that wasn't fortunate enough for a nice pair Nikes, but barefoot running has been a growing interest of mine for some time now. I have friends who do it. It has been recommended to me several times to try, especially when discussing my joint aches and pains. So I have decided to look at it a little harder this time.

According to this month's Runner's World, it is apparently a "fad" on the rise, and holds a great debate as to whether this radical departure from the norm is a legit mode of exercise. This renegade movement is apparently surging, being led by Christopher McDougall and readers of his book, Born to Run. Sweet, maybe I can be in the cool crowd this time. :) Well, I don't know anything about that, nor do I care to join the cool crowd, but I am interested in the benefits of running without shoes. Having been researching it a bit, it seems that people claim great benefit from this "style" of running (less aches and pains, more natural form, increased fun, etc.), all of which interest me. Having never been a huge fan of shoes, why should I need a special pair to run? It just sounds silly all of sudden. Our foot is designed to walk and run just fine without any special treatment. We have just been conditioned to need a shoe.

So, anyway.....I will be continuing my research and hopefully move to some trials in the near future.

UPDATE: The more POV's, the better....recent article on the topic.

handlebar

2010-02-05T20:56:00.002-06:00

So its been a while since I have had a shave. Thanksgiving, in fact, I believe was the last occasion. Not having a job where I am greeting clients face to face, or the presence of daily razzing from classmates, and such, it has been nice to just let it go for a while. I have let it go several times in the last few years, but only for No Shave November events, and that is just a month. This is the longest it has been, and though I feel the look growing on me (ah! pun, sorry) I feel it may not be tolerable for much longer. I snapped a photo strictly for documentation purposes, and for future discouragement from trying it again. :) Time for a haircut too, that's been since Oct.

No Impact Man

2010-01-20T10:36:00.015-06:00

I have been recently been made aware of the efforts of Colin Beavan, a.k.a. No Impact Man, (Thanks, Vern) and have been pleasantly intrigued by his journey to change his lifestyle, as it is something I have increasingly longed for in my own life. We have all heard of people becoming more "environmentally conscious" or more "green", terms which I personally have a slight issue with, and perhaps that is why I enjoyed his approach so much: he is straight-forward, and honest. He admits that his new title is perhaps just a sensational and extreme as all the other "green" slogans, however he backs up his claims with the experimentation that he and his family underwent: attempting to live for a year with "no impact". He documents the struggles that exist while living within a cultural system that does not support living naturally or the well-being of the whole, but one that focuses solely on consumption, forgetting the harmful waste that inevitably follows.

I have yet to see his documentary film, or read his book, but eagerly await to see what they have to say. In the mean time, his blog is available with a lot of information, including a trailer to his film, as well as a video of a talk he gave in promotion of his book at a B&N, aired on BookTV (very good conversion with Q&A). I would encourage you to take a little time to explore his story, and to please share what you find with others. We all have an impact; is yours set to improve or to degrade?

My Brother the Artist....2 weeks in.

2010-01-17T22:11:00.014-06:00

So it has been a couple weeks now for the bro. I have stopped over a few times so far to say hello, taking the opportunity to drop off firewood, sit in the sun and write a bit, and to wear out a Rowdy dog. Andrew seems to be thoroughly enjoying his tenure in the barn. The first week and a half was quite cold by Florida standards, but that has passed and we are on to more typical winter temps (High:60's, Low:40's). I snapped a couple interior photos the other day so you could see how he is living. Not much on the walls this visit....must have known I was going to snap a few pics.

I will post a few more on flickr. Don't forget to drop him a line if you haven't already. One stamp holds so much potential. peace.

The Zen of Running

2010-01-15T10:07:00.007-06:00

My growing interest of late (the last year or two or three) has been about trying to explore and discover my Self in our busy little world we have created. I have only briefly dabbled in meditation, tai chi, etc., and while I find all of that deeply satisfying, I had never thought of running to be a form of this Self discovery. I had run CC and track in HS, and participated in some college sports, but running hadn't been 'fun' or overly enjoyable in a very long time....probably since childhood.

Today a college professor of mine, who is also an avid barefoot runner, recommended this read, "The Zen of Running" by Fred Rohé. It is a very quick and simple read. It was originally printed in the '70s and I believe it is now out of print, but thankfully Rohé has posted a PDF download on his website for all to share.

I found it greatly helpful in regards to the way I approach running. For so long I enjoyed running, then for whatever reason I grew to despise it. When my interest returned, joining DailyMile last month, it was for the sake of competition, stat tracking, and so forth. "Yea, look at me and what I can do!" I am thankful to have come across this book, as it has helped coax my motivation into a more healthy direction. Nothing wrong with DM, just running my own race now.

Here is the link to the PDF: The Zen of Running

I just wanted to share this find with you, in case you hadn't heard of it. Also, if you have any of your own stories about this topic, I would love get a discussion going about this. Though I am only beginning, I find it incredibly fascinating.

peace.

it's twenty ten....

2010-01-07T13:53:00.009-06:00

...not two-thousand ten. You didn't graduate in nineteen-thousand ninety-seven, did you? Didn't think so.

So it's a new year. The time of summation lists of a year gone by and resolutions for the year to come. I'd make you a list, perhaps of some good music from twenty nine (??..ok, so maybe the pronunciation thing doesn't work.), or movies (might have gone to the theater once last year), or books (if it isn't Arch. related then I haven't read it, and I sure as hell don't want to rank them), but quite honestly I am not in the mood for lists today. Leaning more toward the year to come. I can't recall ever completely following through on a resolution, so I better not jinx any new plans by calling them one. Let's just say that this year will be the year that I step out into the unknown.

Goals have been set for the short-term, but that is it. Some are the same goals that couldn't be completed in 2009 for whatever reason, but the new year has sparked new motivation to move on. Goal #1 is my thesis project. It has been hanging around too long and is no longer welcome here. It must go. As stated before, my motivation to complete it has been lacking at times....most of the time.

In the last month or so, I have also been motivated to begin running again. The urge appeared to happen on a whim, most likely a culprit of distraction from my thesis. "But running is good, it couldn't hurt to add some....any....motivation to your daily life" was my reasoning. So I have been running again. Aside from the running associated with my time as a rower, I really haven't done much of it since my high school cross country days. 12+ years and 35-40 lbs later, running isn't as easy at it once was. However, it is coming back, and it is feeling good....er, better each time. I have noticed it helps to be able to track yourself and see your progress. Very motivating.

So....with my thesis motivation waning and my running motivation on the rise, I have decided in this new year to combine these efforts. On February 6, 2010 there is a race in Savannah. The place I need to be at the completion of my thesis in order to finalize everything, getting approval signatures and such. My goal is to be there so that I can run in the Critz Tybee Run.

If for whatever reason, I cannot be in Savannah, there is also a race in Pensacola, the Double Bridge Run. I will continue my run training and prepare for either of these races....the catch is that if I am not done with my project by then, I cannot run. My running is already mapped out for the month of January, so that cannot waiver....and now, my completion date for this project cannot either, or my efforts will have been for not. Attaching my competitive side to this is bound to work, right?

I am very aware that my past attempts at motivation have been mute. I have tried nearly everything I can think of, and nothing has worked. The latest attempt, for instance, I haven't had a hair cut since October, or a shave since around Thanksgiving. I have horrible facial hair once it exceeds 5pm stubble. It is very patchy and sad. Knowing this I have put my appearance on the line until I finish. It has helped to some extent, because its so freakin' uncomfortable (and ugly), but my thoughts that it would deter me from public venues has not been as successful as intended. So...I hope this running thing works. Really ready to move on, and shave.

Well, until next time....

....ok, fine, maybe just a quick little list of "good stuff I really enjoyed" during 2009.

Books:
1. How to See Yourself as You Really Are
2. The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success

Movie:
1. (500) Days of Summer

Albums:
1. Hey Marseilles - To Travels and Trunks
2. Matt and Kim - Grand
3. Dave Matthews Band - Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King
4. Regina Spektor - Far
Too close to call Runners-up:
Norah Jones - The Fall
(500) Days...Soundtrack
Schuyler Fisk - The Good Stuff

Check 'em out! Happy New Year! Ok, bye.

My Brother the Artist....

2010-01-02T09:33:00.009-06:00

....has some creative plans for his first month of the decade. He has developed and proposed a challenge to himself that will help him become the artist he wants to be. The challenge is posted below. If you have ever been camping, you know how long a day can feel when without modern conveniences. He will have plenty of "free" time to think, create, and produce. (ah, envy!!) You should send him something.

The month of January in Florida is nothing compared to northern states, but for us warm-blooded beach dwellers, it gets pretty cold. This first week, the temperature will get up to 50 for about an hour, and then head back down toward (and below) freezing for the nights. So that should be fun.

I will be stopping by every so often to see what's up. Here is a photo of pre-Day 1, preparing for his first night. It should be an interesting endeavor. I can't wait to see what he produces.

Until next time, peace.
zach.

Day Dream

2009-12-14T18:11:00.001-06:00

Today has been quite a peculiar day. One with no energy. Foggy, rainy, and humid outside. Not being able to see beyond 10 yards in front of you is nice sometimes.

Took Rowdy for a walk this evening. I assume the sun was setting, as the street lights popped on in the haze. 70 degrees outside with 99% humidity in the middle of December. You don't normally sweat while you walk your dog in December. It felt like summer, so much that I began to wonder why people had Christmas decorations up. It was a very eerie walk. Hardly any sounds. What you could hear came from ten houses down, sounding like it was happening right next to you.

Walking past houses of old friends and acquaintances from earlier in life, middle school, high school and so on, none of which are still inhabited by the same families, I began to think of the path I was taking, and the ones I have taken before. The spaces, that for some reason, held a memory in my head. Much like that of a child from Family Circus, I began to map out routes I had taken, leaving only dashes behind. I've been in that house. I've walked through that door. I have played in that backyard. I wonder how many times I have been in this exact spot? How many more times will I be right here? Suddenly snapped back to reality as Rowdy and I nearly became roadkill to a tired 9-to-5er returning home in their SUV. Probably rushing home from the stressful act of useless gift buying.

We continued our walk with a new heart rate. Thinking that incident would be a nice touch to a future blog entry, we crafted other lines that would sound cool, but unfortunately (or not) we couldn't think of a good ending.

Rowdy and I returned home to find something to do that wouldn't bore us. Nothing yet. Yeah, that ending sucks.

flash back

2009-10-13T18:33:00.002-05:00

So I knew this would happen. I was warned about it as well, but I already knew it would arrive, despite my supreme confidence that I could postpone the arrival due to increased maturity since my post-high school days. I have about had it with living with parents. I know I am only "visiting" but my lack of motivation to finish my thesis is discouraging, prolonging my stay. I have flashed back in time to the days when I would dream of all the places I wanted to go and all the experiences I wanted to have, while being trapped in my bedroom upstairs with no apparent sign of escape. I have found distraction after distraction, excuse after excuse to not work on this thesis, and I don't know why. I will get psyched up to do it sometimes, but that always occurs in the middle of the night as I lay in bed. By morning I am again distracted. I have made many attempts at different types of motivation, nothing seems to be working......until this. The sooner I am out of here the better. I am not bound here as I once was as a kid, despite my apparent need to think so. I am leaving, and it will be soon. Tomorrow it begins....or perhaps tonight at 2am if I get the urge.

I need to start compiling my list of adventures again. A mental list seems to get lost, perhaps a physical list is in order.

There ain't moral to this story at all
Everything I tell you
Very well could be a lie
Been away from the livin’
Don’t need to be forgiven
I’m just waiting for that cold black soul of mine
To come alive

Seriously?

2009-10-01T11:33:00.006-05:00

Ever feel like some unknown is trying to tell you something, but secretly and subliminally so they don't get caught telling you, leaving you to figure it out for yourself?

Upon writing/typing myself into another deep hole today (not as in physical depth, deep as in, "Whoa man, that's deep!"), I came across another one of those moments you can sometimes come across when contemplating the universe, life's purpose, happiness, and all of that serious stuff. "Why am I here?", etc. For a brief moment, Coincidence seemed to be a very far-fetched idea.

So as I am typing the part of my thesis about meaning, conscious and unconscious thought, making the correct decision between materiality of self and the understanding of self, and the concentration required for knowing one's self, the phone rings. At this time of the day it is commonly a tele-marketer, and I was correct. "If you are interested in joining my venture,...and want to make 40-60% return in the next year,...and have $25,000 liquid now or in the next 3 days....please press 1....". Seriously?? How could this computer leaving this message know what I am thinking and typing about at this second? And furthermore, but less important, how could anyone be so stupid as to believe anything a recording tells them? Whomever is running this 'show' better start coming up with some original material. They are getting a little predictable. Unless you are trying to tell me something, in which case, I get that you are trying, but I can't make any sense of it. Better clues would be helpful, thanks.

I hate how thinking sometimes keeps you from working. I just can't focus because of how these occurrences seem so planned and scripted. I know it is probably just a weird mood that will pass, similar to the one I get when I watch "The Truman Show" or the first "Matrix". So, as Rowdy licks his butt joyously (and loudly) at my feet, I will strive to get back to typing about Happiness, and what it really is. As if I have a clue.......however, Rowdy seems to know.

Great, now my head hurts.....time for a nature break.

good wind

2009-09-28T15:12:00.007-05:00

We set out again for another evening sail on the bay yesterday afternoon, this time with my visiting Aunt Max and Uncle Em (the CA Wilson's). It was a very nice sail. Good wind. Cool temps. Chatting. Wine. Dinner. Etc. Didn't get back until well after dark. I omitted the obligatory sunset photo last time, but was encouraged to take some this time ("ok, fine!"). Still managed plenty of fuzzy photos, but I did get a few nice ones this go 'round.

** these and a few more on flickr. enjoy. peace.

do it right

2009-09-26T21:44:00.001-05:00

"We are travelers on a cosmic journey - stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. But the expressions of life are ephemeral, momentary, transient. Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, once said,

This existence of ours is as transient as autumn clouds.
To watch the birth and death of beings is like looking at the movements of a dance.
A lifetime is like a flash of lightning in the sky,
Rushing by like a torrent down a steep mountain.

We have stopped here for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment, but it is transient. It is a little parenthesis in eternity. If we share with caring, lightheartedness, and love, we will create abundance and joy for each other. And then this moment will have been worthwhile."
~ Deepak Chopra, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success

Life is short. Do it right. Peace.

Lazy Sunday

2009-09-13T18:29:00.005-05:00

Ahhh!....Sunday. The day of rest. Rowdy and I obey. Living the high life. Here's to the hope that everyone is having a delightful Sunday. peace.

some rainy day colors

2009-09-12T13:55:00.008-05:00

Not too much going on today. It has been drizzling off and on all day. I have always enjoyed the atmosphere during a good rainy day. Everything gets cleansed and appears brighter and more vibrant in the process. Mom was going out to garden in the rain for a bit, so I decided to take a wander by the garden myself for a few photos.

**can't wait for a real camera. Auto-focus all the way, baby! More [less focused] photos on flickr.

Smooth sailing.

2009-09-05T22:06:00.013-05:00

Went out this evening for, if my memory serves me, one of my first hassle free outings on Dad's boat. It seems every time there is something, some slight mishap, or minor failure of equipment that fouls up the trip juuuust enough. Tonight however was quite nice, great breeze, nice seas, and for a second, I was able to forget all the potential hassles of owning a boat, briefly dreaming of having my own one day. I should know better.

Dad and I set out about 4:30 or so, and on one tack off the channel were able to make it all the way out to the other side of NAS. Took a turn for Gulf Breeze, then a slow turn back to the marina. Caught a nice sunset (not shown), and an equally pleasant full-moonrise (shown, to the best of my ability on a rocking boat). It's a long weekend, so maybe we can try to go 2 for 2.

Couple more rockin' attempts on flickr, though they are not very successful with just a point and shoot.

peace.

So....deux

2009-09-03T11:04:00.004-05:00

I guess it is time for my annual blog posting. Updates....hmm, let's see.

I have recently graduated from SCAD with a Master of Architecture degree. However the diploma for said degree is being withheld until I turn in my thesis book. Guess they really want the proof that my life sucked over the last few quarters.

I moved from Savannah this last weekend, back to Pace, Florida where I grew up. I will miss Savannah greatly, but will probably miss the people I met there more. College was the last item on my preconceived list of accomplishments that I must do to have a 'good life'. Oh, the mind of a high school kid...I sometimes wish I could return to high school and tell myself not to worry about lists, and to just do whatever you want. Pace is a nice place to sit and think, primarily because there is not much else to do here, but perhaps I am not looking in the right places.

It is a peculiar feeling returning home after so long away. I have visited plenty, and this move still feels like a visit, so I am beginning to fear the realization that I am nearing thirty and living with my parents. All the more incentive to complete the tasks I must do here and move on. I have a quite lengthy to-do list hanging on my wall next to me, just in case I wake up one day guilt-free. By the looks of the list, I could be here for a while. As lists often do, I intend for it to change as time passes, however if it stays the course it could take a good six months to a year to complete. I have a few urgent tasks, namely that damn thesis book, followed by a website, and of course finding a job, but I also have a few 'wants' added in the form of materialistic purchases that I feel necessary to move on with my life in the direction I want. (ha, typing 'I want' only makes me realize I don't need them, ah! why with the self-inflicted guilt?). Again, with these preconceived lists and wants, but I guess that is what people call dreams. I don't know. I don't know what the future holds, but I hope I can let go of some of these lists and just live freely. (perfect timing, Tom Petty.)

If you are down this way, let me know. Rowdy and I could probably use a break from sitting on the back porch reading and writing. That will do for now I suppose.

à bientôt!

p.s. I will be trying to update and maintain this blog a bit more. Be sure to look at some of my friends blogs as well. They are very talented artists and designers that need jobs and people to pay them money to live. So hire them. Peace.

So....

2008-03-12T14:25:00.003-05:00

So....it's been a while since I've used this. I was recently reminded that I had a blog, and was somewhat surprised that I had forgotten, as I usually enjoy sharing what's going on. I guess I could have used in the last year or so, but I just haven't felt like typing things out for some reason. I could have used it last summer to tell you about my trip to Hawaii, or about my growing puppy, or maybe in the fall to tell you about my dealings with a coward, or even in the recent months to tell you of my fabulous experiences in southern France, but I didn't. Don't know why. I guess if you know me you know what you need to know about me. I'll post some things now that I have remembered this outlet, but don't rely on it. If you want to rely on anything, do so with my photos. Those are updated on a more regular basis. They are here. So...until next time.

Au revoir

Rowdy

2007-03-02T10:33:00.002-06:00

It's been a few weeks now with this new critter running around, so the "aaw, look at the puppy" phase has worn off, and I still want him around, so he will be staying. He's almost got #1's down, and he's learned his lesson with #2's, so that is good. I've put up some pictures from a couple weeks ago, hopefully I'll put up newer ones soon, as he's doubled since then.

Some days...

2007-01-16T19:21:00.000-06:00

....just aren't as good as others.

Woke up way too early, cause my bladder was at its breaking point. Stumbling in the dark looking for the door. Stepped on something loud and a cracking. Ouch. Finally get back to bed for 30 min. before the alarm goes off for practice. Getting ready, realize that ouch earlier was my new pair of glasses, momentarily destroyed, overwhelmingly ticked. Park at the gym for practice, we run 10 minutes late, so I must have deserved the parking ticket. Body is already sore and it's only 9am. It's overcast and cold. Blah. Had a few hours to do work for classes, couldn't find the motivation, but I did find the bed. Kinda fixed my glasses. Class from 2 - 730. Blah. It's cold. House is empty. Making some warm, easy dinner, Ramen. Check the email. Listen to some music. Realized the Ramen had been boiling for 20min. Ugh, white mush. Turn up the music louder. Typed a blog about my awesome day.

Today sucked. But it could have been far worse I'm sure. Tomorrow can only be better. I think these kind of days happen every now and then to average the rest out, and to make you realize how good you really do have it, because by the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that you wake up in the morning and step on your glasses. Time to make more Ramen. You can't mess that up twice in a row, right? :)

Listen to Regina Spektor.
It may make your day suck less.

Resolution

2007-01-13T14:17:00.001-06:00

Well, it's a new year. If my math is correct, it's been about 10 years since I finished high school, which is a somewhat disturbing thought. Don't they have parties for that? So far '07 is going well. Back in Savannah, the Winter quarter just started, and crew practice is back in the routine.

I am taking a class this quarter that has become very interesting very quickly. One of the ideas that has repeatedly kept my mind interested in architecture is the idea of creating sustainable design, and "thinking green". This class, Environmental Control, focuses a lot on the subject. It has been a common element of design, and is in constant discussion over at Eichberg Hall (Arch. Bldg.). And starting this quarter, SCAD's School of Building Arts has adjusted their mission statement and course goals to include the teaching and understanding of the ecological responsibilities held by an architect, and to uphold the environment they alter. I was planning to do so anyway, but making it a requirement for every student is wonderful. I think it is a great initiative, and I plan to do my part to support it in my own life as much as possible, hence the resolution title.

Having reverted to the college life, anything cheap becomes appealing. And being around "green" people at Eichberg, lectures, and constant energy saving fact sheets posted on bulletin boards, I am becoming more and more aware of how easy it is to save my money when it comes to power bills, water bills, etc. In EC, one such fact was that the U.S. contains 5% of the world's population, yet we use 25% of its energy, leaving the U.S. with the most energy spent per person in the world. Furthering the guilt, the fact following was that the Southeast region of the U.S. spends the most per person in the country. Leaving me to be one of the most energy consuming people in the world. Yuck! Tuesday we watched this video, Kilowatt Ours. It shows how the U.S. creates most of its energy, and is quite helpful at showing ways you can help to save as well. The easiest ways to be turning off the lights, computers, AC, etc., when no one is using them. Also, replacing your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They are slightly more expensive, but they are guaranteed to last 5 years, and emit far less energy (incandescents are lucky to last a year). If you happen to come across the video, I recommend checking it out. It's interesting. Well, that's my PSA for the year. I'll let you know what else I find interesting as I come across it. Back to work.

Head of the Hooch

2006-11-06T17:44:00.002-06:00

Hello again.

Went to a new place this weekend, Chattanooga, TN. It seems to be a pretty cool place. It should be known that I didn't venture far from the riverfront, but what I saw from there was pretty cool. We had our first head race regatta there this weekend. Our 'first' regatta scheduled a couple weeks ago at Cape Fear was cancelled. This weekend is our final of the short fall season. It will be in Augusta, GA, and will mark one year of crew for me. Yoohoo!

Anyway, this weekend was a good row, despite finishing DFL. The women had three boats, a varsity eight and pair, and a novice four. The men only had one boat, a varsity eight. It was our first race together in that configuration. It went well, but we need work. It didn't help that we were up against half of the SEC & ACC, and not to mention the US National Team. Comparative to the size of our school, and our experience, I can't say we did that bad. We'll get better. Results , Pictures , Video

Some of the family was there this weekend. That was nice. Haven't seen some of them in a while. Thanks again for coming. It was great to have some fans for a change.

Pet Peeve #294

2006-08-02T18:45:00.000-05:00

I am sure we have all experienced this once before, if not several times. Though I am not sure how frequent it occurs in the women's restroom, I know that it occurs quite often in the men's, and that is the, always unpleasurable, unflushed toilet or urinal. If I am to write about such crap, I assume it has reached the level of pet-peeve, which makes it quite an appropriate discussion for a blog post.

So, let's discuss.

Why? Why would anyone not dispose of the container which they just left their bodily waste? I know some people don't take out their garbage for a while, letting it pile up, but I believe this is on a different level than that. It's one more simple task before you pretend to wash you hands in the sink. Apparently, zipping up your pants was far too much physical action for you to bear, and pushing down a level a half an inch is just too much. Maybe you simply enjoy the idea of the next user cringing when stepping up to the toilet. Why?

Is it a matter of pride? "Hehe, look what I did," yet you flee the scene before you can point it out to anyone. Maybe post-it notes should be left on the counter so that stakes can be made on your accomplishments. I understand that from time to time is proper male discussion to speak of the length of a coiled 'monster', or the duration of a post-LOTR wiz, but those are normally spoken in the past tense, not something you share in a public restroom with strangers. These such marks on a toilet should normally, and preferably to most, be kept to yourself and your own mental records.

Is it a matter of conservation? According to some crazy people, our planet Earth is going to run out of water someday. I'm not sure how exactly since ice caps are melting as we speak (read), so I don't see what they are so worried about. Anyway, I know it is common practice for some to try to conserve water, like taking baths instead of showers, filling the sink with water while shaving instead of letting it run, stuff like that. However, when it comes to discarding waste immediately, letting it sit there emitting odors throughout the restroom until someone returns, possibly hours later, is entirely unacceptable.

I experience this quite often in the building I spend a good bit of time in, Eichberg Hall, and it is my assumption that many of the Architecture, Historic Preservation, and other building majors students (aka. eager environmentalist hippies) try to conserve the water in Eichberg's toilets. I have also experienced it in other buildings on campus that should have a lower number of Earth-happy people, yet my reaction is the same. Similar to a humorous thought regarding vegitarians, I flush the toilet at least once, maybe twice for a #2, for everytime you don't flush. So, therefore you are not saving anything. Granted, you have managed to stink up the bathroom for everyone else, and that is something I can't get rid of as easily, but nonetheless, your efforts have been thwarted. I encourage everyone having similar views towards unflushed toilets to do the same. Together we can make a difference, blah, blah, blah.

If you happen to be a non-flusher, please elaborate as to why you make this your routine. Thank you.

Extra! Extra!

2006-06-24T10:24:00.000-05:00

About 2 hours ago, I started to make a new blog entry about the Braves finally capturing a win, making it only there 3rd of the month. With the month ending in a couple days, you can deduce that it hasn't been a good month for them. They are facing some record lows this month, none of which are making me happy, but that doesn't stop me from being a fan of the team. I would like to hope that they can still continue their run of post-season appearances, but at this point that is very unlikely, but not impossible. The exact same scenario played out last year with the Houston Astros, and they made it to the World Series. Anything is possible.

Anyway, I wanted to be clever and place a video of Andruw Jones hitting a 444ft. homerun into my blog post. After far too little searching, and a lack of certain computer/web skills, I decided to forgo the Jones video until another day, and just dazzle everyone with my intellectually typed words. I decided against that as well, since I was too busy investigating a new video and blog I discovered while looking for homeruns. The site is about a guy named Matt, and his blog describes his travels. He has a video which is quite interesting, not so much for the topic, which is dancing, as it is about how he framed his dancing by his surroundings. Incredible. This guy has traveled like I want to travel, meaning simply....Everywhere, and even better, before he is old and retired. His travels are quite interesting. Interesting enough to hold my attention for a couple hours of reading, and exploring pictures.

When I come across things such as this, it always raises questions in my head. "Why can't I do something like that?" The answer is always, "I can....but" "But what? What is holding you back?" "Nothing...really....I'm just supposed to...." I hate that life is so planned out for you. Yes, I know you can do whatever you want, and take whatever course you want in your life, but overall, there is some kind of pre-planned route that you are made to feel guilty for leaving. There is safety in that pre-planned route. To me, that is its only appeal. Joy & excitement usually follow, but they are not guaranteed, like it is when you leave that route. Anyway, I thought Matt's site was very interesting and, in a way, inspiring. Check it out if you have some extra time. It'll make you hate your job. Where the hell is Matt?

Where the Hell is Matt?

All along the watchtower

2006-06-23T16:46:00.000-05:00

Well, just as the last post was read by it's first reader, my relaxing vacation is over. I have returned to Savannah to start the summer quarter of classes. I am already a week into it and it appears that it will be, again, a great deal of work. I am hoping not as great as the previous quarter as that was no fun at all. I would like to salvage as much of that 'summer' feeling as I can, so I hopefully there will be time for the beach, trail, etc.
Before heading back to SAV from FL, I went up to ATL to visit Matthew and go for a hike, and then by the office to see some friendly folks there, and finally by to see my 2nd family, Elizabeth, Richard and the kids. The memory of their children amazes me. At the rate of my recent visits, which have unfortunately been once or twice a year over the last few years, I am amazed by how well they remember me and my changing appearances. I can't remember what my professors name from the Fall quarter, and they remember me from 12 months ago. Anyway, It was great to see everyone again, hopefully it won't be that long again before I see them again.

I have continued to organize and update my photos, which can found in the Photos section (oddly enough), so feel free to check it out. It's strange. I love to be organized, but hate doing it, and the time it takes to do it. I guess it's worth it in the long run.

"There must be some kind of way out of here...", said the Joker to the Thief.

Done.

2006-06-07T20:05:00.000-05:00

...and not a moment too soon, since I was one deleted file away from an aneurysm. I've completed a very hard quarter, and couldn't be happier that I am done. I have a short 2 weeks off before I return to Savannah for the Summer quarter, and the 3 courses it holds (Arch. Fundamentals 2, Construction Technology, and English Lit. & Comp.) Shouldn't be too bad, I certainly hope not. This quarter was an A and 2 B's, which were very hard fought grades.
I am now in Florida at home, trying my best to remember how to relax. I will stay here until the end of the week, then head up to Atlanta to go hiking with Matthew. I'll probably stop in on some old friends to say hello while I am there. After the hike in the Smokies it will be back to Savannah for school.
I will be living at my friend, Meg Tate's house this summer. Then for the Fall, David and I have found a awesome house to live in. I'll discuss that in more detail when it gets closer to move-in time. It's gonna be sweet.
In my relax time / boredom here at home, I've updated my photo album to something that will work better for me when it comes to posting new pictures, and easier for you to navigate, so enjoy. You can find my Arch. Fundamental final portfolio in there somewhere. :)

And after calming me down with some orange slices
And some fetal spooning
E.T. revealed to me his singular purpose,
He said you are the chosen one
The one who will deliver the message
A message of hope
For those who choose to hear it
And a warning for those who do not
Me, the chosen one
They chose me,
And I didn't graduate
From fucking high school

2006-05-25T16:25:00.000-05:00

So, Thursday's classes have come and gone. I just walked out of Eichberg Hall at 5:00pm and realized I hadn't stepped outside in exactly 24 hrs. and building for closer to 36-40. My model is very near completetion. I did all that work for my pfsr. to tell me that we will critic and turn in on Tuesday, which I suppose is a good thing, as now I have less work to do over the weekend. I have inhaled way too much fiber-board dust, and super-glued my fingers together enough for a while. It's time for a nap, and a shower. Hopefully the skin on my fingertips will grow back soon. Here are some pictures of yesterday, last evening, this morning, this afternoon, whatever time it was. Once it's done I'll take it to the photo vault for some shadow casting and such. Later.

Latest Fundamentals

2006-05-23T17:15:00.000-05:00

The quarter only has a week and half left, and things have been moving slowly on the model. I have started working on the base, but have yet to completely finish my roof system, which will probably be some kind of skin wrapping the trusses, not the ever-so-popular ski-slope design, I just hope it will work because the model is due to be completed and turned in on Thursday, less than 48 hrs. from now. So....I have a lot of work to do. I have made progress since these photos were taken yesterday, and newer, hopefully completed model photos will arrive shortly.

"Ohh, take me right back to a grand world"

Fundamentals

2006-04-28T01:03:00.000-05:00

So I haven't slept much lately, and it's all due to the excessive amount of homework I've been receiving. The assignment taking up most of my time so far, requiring multiple all-night homework sessions at Eichberg Hall, is my Arch. Fundamentals model. We started at the beginning of the quarter playing around with blocks, planes, posts, etc. Found an arrangement we liked, then multiplied in a formal arrangement (linear, stepped, zig-zagged), now we are elaborating on that arrangement moving horizontally and vertically. After repeated all-night sessions, followed by class with the professor acting as a tornado, literally ripping it to shreds, and repeating, we've begun to see a function emerging from the pile of sticks and foam core board. We are only at midterms, so I've got a long way to go on this project. I'm certain I will have to continue to change and refine it until its a beautiful structure. Guess the function of my building, and you'll get 10 cool points.

Quote Of The Day

2006-04-23T11:15:00.000-05:00

On my Google Homepage I have rarely read Quote of the Day that appears every day. Some days I read it, others I forget. It is usually nothing outrageous, or anything relative to the way I'm feeling, but today's was.

You've achieved success in your field when you don't know whether what you're doing is work or play.
- Warren Beatty

Right now everything I do seems like work, and no play. Well, there is play, but it's only found in the procrastination from the work. They are not synonymous. I am once again thinking of ditching the architecture. The feeling of being a quitter, giving into my laziness, wasting my intelligence, or whatever that feeling is, still remains, because I know I can do architecture, but quite frankly I don't know if want to. I want something that is new, something that will be exciting everyday, something that I will always enjoy doing, not just most of the time. I don't see that future right now. I think my procrastination problem would disappear if I actually wanted to do the work I'm given. If I enjoyed it, I wouldn't find excuses to do other things. I can do architecture, play it safe, and not enjoy the ride, and make it work for my life, or I can do something else that I would enjoy completely, not knowing if it would work, or if I'd fall on my face, and be happy. So, I don't know where this is going, but if I make a change in the near future, don't be too surprised.

I wanna have the same last dream again
The one where I wake up and I'm alive
Just as the four walls close me within
My eyes are open up with pure sunlight
I'm the first to know

Note To Self: Egg Salad

2006-04-18T06:18:00.000-05:00

Never, ever, under any circumstances purchase and eat an egg salad sandwich from a gas station. Never. Just because you have been working all night w/o sleep, and haven't eaten in 30+ hrs. is not a valid excuse. Never......ever do it.

"Where is my mind?"

Clemson Sprints

2006-03-23T12:22:00.000-06:00

We are heading out tomorrow for Clemson. It should be a comfortable and pleasant 8 hr. bus trip up there. :) The pressure is on this race, since family will be in attendance. I will be in a Men's Novice 4 again, and possibly a Mixed 8. It could be a long day, with as many as 3 races, or a short day with only 1, it just depends on how we do in our first heat. Should be another interesting weekend.

Info/Results: Clemson Sprints 2006

"Hopeless time to roam
The distance to your home
Fades away to nowhere
How much are you worth
You can't come down to earth
You're swelling up, you're unstoppable"

Leprosy Weekly Update

2006-03-22T17:40:00.000-06:00

It hurts to bathe.

"ARTHUR: What are you going to do, bleed on me?
BLACK KNIGHT: I'm invincible!"

Power 10 in 2

2006-03-09T23:40:00.000-06:00

Let's sprint. The first race of our Spring Crew season, the SERCS Regatta, is this weekend in Aiken, SC, and it's a 2k sprint. It should be interesting. The only race I participated in so far was a longer 5k which is more about endurance. This weekend's race will be over before we know it, in about 7 min. or so., which means it will be all power, and less endurance. Not to mention we will be rowing side-by-side other boats, and starting from a gun (or flag drop). Last time, our position was determined by time, starting on 30 sec. intervals, so you didn't see many other boats. I'll be in the stroke seat again, but this time in the Men's Novice 4, instead of the Novice 8. I'm looking forward to it, it should be pretty intense. I'll post some pictures when I get back. The results should also be posted on the website, so you can see how we did there.

UPDATE: The race went well for our first time. We could have done better. The team overall didn't fair too well, but hopefully we worked out all the kinks for the upcoming race at Clemson. My boat came in 4th in our heat, so we didn't advance to the final, but at least we didn't come in last. We beat Berry by a mile, but I'm not sure if that's something to be proud of or not. I'll hope for better luck next time, some stronger legs would help too. Later :)

"Gravedigger, when you dig my grave, could you make it shallow so that I can feel the rain?"

W.W.I.F.A.T.M. Pics

2006-03-07T14:09:00.000-06:00

Success! that is if success is defined in this case by making people happy. We had a lot of fun playing with our (Zach D. and I) project. We had a man holding the narrow end, and the rest of the class helped it fill up. Then we realized that since it was a warm day and garbage are black, that the air inside heated up. Then when the breeze picked up and the man on the narrow end, I assume accidentally, let go, our creation decided to take flight. It was never intended to do this, but it did, and people loved it, so I loved it. Once it came back down to Earth, people ventured inside, the courageous traveling past the narrowing into the little side bubble thing, and crawled down to the end. All in all, it was a good, and I'm happy with it. We came up with a lot of ideas during the process of making it, so it could've been better, but I guess we'll save those ideas for next time. Here are some pics, hopefully others will trickle in from other students:

"uh...I think it's trying to swallow me."

W.W.I.F.A.T.M

2006-03-05T20:00:00.000-06:00

Well, I've finished my 3-d Design project. Me and another guy named Zach have been working on it for a week or so. Some of you may have heard the specifications, but basically the prfsr. wanted us to create something, anything, that involved rhythm and repitition. And he preferred it to be on a large scale, if possible. So we took that as a challenge and decided to create a large inflatable space, hopefully large enough to fit our entire class into. The rhythm being the fluidity of the air flowing through like waves, and the sounds made by the contraption. Any cool rhythmic light patterns created would be an added bonus. Our medium consisted of 30 gallon garbage bags, duct tape, and air. Several designs were semi-thought of before we started, but the prfsr. didn't really want us to plan much, just get started and see what happened, so that's what we did. About 150 garbage bags later, we were done. Yesterday we tested it, and I took a couple pics, and video was shot. We will present it tomorrow to the class, and I'll take more pics then. I'll post them when I get the chance. Yea for art!, .... and crazy professors! :)

"Wacky Waving Inflatable Arm Flailing Tube Man!!"

Life Drawing is...ummm....fun

2006-03-03T17:48:00.000-06:00

....I guess.

My drawing class had a weekend class last week, to observe all of the different drawing professors' work. There were also model sessions going on while we were there, and our teacher encouraged us to try it. I've never been good at drawing people, but sure, why not. I figured the dude was going to pose sitting on the this block in the middle of the room. I grab my pad and pencil to get ready, looking up only to see a full moon shining back at me. "Oh, it's this kind of figure drawing." Anyway, this is what came of it, for your viewing pleasue. FYI, it was my first time drawing a live figure, let alone a nude one. And I can't draw heads. Oh well.

Chicks dig scars.....right?

2006-03-02T08:14:00.000-06:00

I wonder if open flesh wounds, and blisters count.

Only one way to find out.

blog wars

2006-02-24T21:13:00.000-06:00

I know we all like our Blogger, and Google rules all, but I'd like everyone to be open minded and tell me what you think of multiply.com

It was referred to me by a couple people here, and it looks interesting. Seems to be more of an all-in-one resource for a single person's information (pics, video, blog, groups, contacts, etc.) so I will be checking it out. Just thought I'd get other opinions before I do any ship jumping.

Good, so good.

2006-01-18T15:48:00.000-06:00

Well, it has been a while since I've written anything. I guess I've been busy, or lazy, one or the other. It's a new year, which hasn't meant much yet. It's just another month that will disappear before my eyes. Nothing real exciting has happened so far, school is back in session, early morning practices are back, stupid cold weather is still here, that's about it. A couple points of interest did happen last year though during my blogger hiatus, which I will kindly type for you now, in order to avoid doing homework for a few minutes.

Winter Break was nice. Thanksgiving and Christmas were both pleasant and happy, as usual. I was able to visit a lot of people, make some money, relax a bit (fall asleep on the couch watching football or Bond), etc. I was up in Atlanta for the first 3 weeks of break, working for the boss makin' some money. Last quarter I strengthened my patience, and my ability to make what appears to be a perfectly empty bank account hold me over for months. So, needless to say, it was nice to have money again. Of course, then came Christmas, and it was nearly all gone again. But thanks to a gracious boss, I am still a part-timer, able to make some change while down here at school. Don't ask how, it's complicated, and not homosexual in any way, no matter what rumor you may hear. Shut up.

Next moment of interest over the break would be the knot tying of some cool people, that being my brother and his new wife, Elise. The wedding was great. I got to meet lots of new people. (Ever have a parent tell you which girls are cute? It's strange to hear. "You should get to know her, she's cute, you'd make a good couple." Ugh. Yes, I know.) After the groomsmen and I vandalized Matthew's Jeep, and the festivities were over, I was privileged enough to drive the couple to their hotel in Atlanta for the night. I don't really care to know the details of how they rung in the new year, but one could take a guess. I'll just let the lasting memory be the one of me dropping them off, and thankfully leave it at that. I would later erase any unwanted images with 4 5 8 13 a couple beers. The next morning they went on their merry way down to Jamaica for a week or so. I'll post up some pictures when I get more developed, but for now Elise has a couple. UPDATE: Here are the official photographer's photos. Enjoy.

On our drive north to the hotel we often got a honk here or there from a passing car to congratulate Matthew & Elise, who were quite visible in the back seat. So after dropping them off, I must say it was an interesting drive back to the party. I wish I could have seen and heard the reactions of the people who honked at me on my way back south. Honking before getting too close to see inside, only to find out that there was only one tuxedo-clad person driving the decorated vehicle, no bride to be found. :)

The final point of interest is not as interesting as it is saddening. :(
My lady, my companion, my friend is gone. We were together for a good seven years or so, but due to my latest decision to attend school, monetary changes apparently had to be made, so we unfortunately had to part ways. We had lots of good times together, too many to mention, but all good; the best being the warm summer nights, riding home topless, with the wind blowing through my hair. You will be missed.

When the time comes, I will acquire another Wrangler, but it looks like that time will be coming a while down the road. Farewell, for now.

"Well, maybe I'll call
or write you a letter.
Now, maybe we'll see on the Fourth of July.
But I'm not too sure, and I'm not too proud.
Well, I'm not too sure and I'm not too proud to say.

Aha, it was good living with you.
Aha, it was good."

For love of the game

2005-11-19T10:27:00.000-06:00

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!"

I've gone PRO

2005-11-16T21:44:00.000-06:00

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"

Eve

2005-11-11T19:38:00.000-06:00

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?"

Stroke

2005-11-03T17:56:00.000-06:00

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!"

The path is fading away...

2005-10-28T20:23:00.000-05:00

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"

Spinning

2005-10-24T19:40:00.000-05:00

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..."

Lucky #14

2005-09-27T22:25:00.000-05:00

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.

Back to the Future

2005-09-25T20:00:00.000-05:00

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!

Where's Waldo George ?

2005-09-14T19:24:00.000-05:00

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.

A Life Of Saturdays

2005-09-01T17:08:00.000-05:00

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....

Fontana to Clingman's

2005-08-22T20:49:00.000-05:00

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.

The devil is now is possession of my soul.

2005-08-16T19:14:00.000-05:00

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*

Magically Delicious??

2005-08-02T08:19:00.000-05:00

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?

Running Is Fun!

2005-07-24T09:07:00.000-05:00

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

Countdown

2005-07-18T22:03:00.000-05:00

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...

Google To Do List: Conquer Earth

2005-06-29T08:24:00.000-05:00

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.

Best . . . Baby . . . Ever!

2005-06-28T21:07:00.000-05:00

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."

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

2005-06-23T08:36:00.000-05:00

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.

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.

Take the
Video Game Addict Test
@ FualiDotCom

What problem? I don't have a problem!

Applicator error

2005-06-06T06:26:00.000-05:00

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.

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

2005-06-01T06:44:00.000-05:00

...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. :/

Panama, Suez, . . . Root?!?

2005-05-26T12:18:00.000-05:00

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. :(

Note To Self: Multi-tasking

2005-05-20T06:35:00.000-05:00

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.

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

2005-05-17T23:23:00.000-05:00

...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

December is the busiest, most hectic month of the year.
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)
December is one of the colder, gloomier months of the year (less important, but a consideration nonetheless).
Consider the difficulty and likeliness of successfully coordinating your wedding arrangements on a night that the year's largest party is occurring.
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.

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.

< tears >

2005-05-16T19:05:00.000-05:00

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!!

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

< drool >

2005-05-12T23:43:00.000-05:00

just go ahead and add it to my xmas list.

watch me.

FOR SALE

2005-05-12T17:02:00.000-05:00

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.

.

Oh Snap!

2005-05-05T08:27:00.000-05:00

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?

Such a relief

2005-05-04T07:53:00.000-05:00

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.

Intentions

2005-05-03T23:15:00.000-05:00

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.

I'm no Smoltz

2005-05-02T20:55:00.000-05:00

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.

FG vs. AD

2005-05-01T21:05:00.000-05:00

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?"

2005-05-01T18:04:00.000-05:00

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.

Guinea Pig No More

2005-04-28T08:11:00.000-05:00

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. <>

Vs.

2005-04-21T22:39:00.000-05:00

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

Testes 1, 2,....3?

2004-10-26T17:06:00.001-05:00

Welcome to this waste of space. I doubt I will ever use it, but if anything interesting ever comes up, it might get posted on here.