Prima Facie

Naaaaaa Naaa Naa, NA NA NA NA!!!

2010-08-26T19:44:00.005-05:00

________________________________________
From: Dad
Sent: Thursday, August 26, 2010 5:18 PM
To: Immediate family
Cc: My uncle
Subject: I Remember

Today (Aug. 26th) back in 1968, the Beatles released Hey Jude.

A week from Saturday (9 days), remind me to tell you a story about the Beatles.

DAD

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2010.5 List

2010-08-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

It has arrived. Maybe I said something about return artists, maybe I didn't. Miike Snow removed...

1.) You Will Leave A Mark - A Silent Film
2.) Breakin' the Chains of Love - Fitz and The Tantrums
3.) Cigarettes Will Kill You - Ben Lee
4.) The Devil's Tears - Angus & Julia Stone
5.) Better Things - Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings
6.) Hold On Magnolia - Songs: Ohia
7.) Tornado - Jonsi
8.) Cigarettes In The Theatre - Two Door Cinema Club
9.) Mango Tree - Angus & Julia Stone
10.) Sugarfoot - Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
11.) Tighten Up - The Black Keys
12.) Electric Feel (acoustic) - Katy Perry
13.) XXXO - M.I.A.
14.) Black & Blue - Miike Snow
15.) Blaoodbuzz Ohio - The National
16.) Fixed - Stars
17.) One by One - Robert Francis
18.) Birthday Boy - Drive-By Truckers

I've been getting emails from Blogger taking down posts with mp3 links. Therefore, if you are interested in a copy, please let me know.

Here's some of the Deets:

1.) You Will Leave A Mark - I heard it in June and was sold on it being the intro. If nothing else, you should get your foot tapping.

4.) The Devil's Tears - I really, really, really like this song. It has some sentimental value, but only because of its lyrics. Angus & Julia Stone are my favorite band right now and The Devil's Tears is a great song about love.

5.) Better Things - Bought the Vinyl at National Record Store Day. Quite catchy and dance to it each time it spins on my turntable. By myself??? Probably...

6.) Hold On Magnolia - An intro song to a UYD episode. If you aren't listening to the podcast yet, then that is your own loss.

7.) Tornado - Actually, I like quite a few of Jonsi's songs, but his voice is an acquired taste so I only put Tornado on. Probably needless to say, but the build-up in this song is great.

10.) Sugarfoot - On a Thursday, my friend asked me if I'd like to see Black Joe Lewis & The Sugarbears at The Bottleneck in Lawrence FOR FREE! Having heard of the band but no recollection of their songs, I obviously said "Yes!" 1000% worth it. Horns. Skinny black ties. Retro R&B. Boom!

11.) Tighten Up - I'm smitten with a girl who is a fan of The Black Keys. Their songs help her cause.

12.) Electric Feel (acoustic ) - I had the original version on an album two years ago. Katy Perry's first appearance.

13.) XXXO - Some people will not appreciate a Club Hit being on the album. Floyd will. It's really catchy and I like it. Screw everybody else.

15.) Bloodbuzz Ohio - Not one song over the last 4 months has rang through my ears. Maybe it's the fact I'm a drummer at heart and the intro is awesome. Maybe it's the lead singer's baritone voice. Maybe it's The National being a fantastic band. You decide.

16.) Fixed - I'm headed to NYC in September to see Stars live for the first time, and am quite excited for it. Judgment pending.

17.) One by One - This song was a regular on the online radio station I listen to at work. I really like it. ----- I had my reasons of not liking this song written here. However, I'm going to reserve those comments until others share their opinions of it. Please share via comments or in person and I will explain my reasoning.

18.) Birthday Boy - Saw the Truckers in Memphis. Awesome. Saw them a second time in Tulsa. Awesomer. There's a lyric in this song I really like:
"The prettiest girls from the smallest towns
Get remembered like storms and droughts
That old men talk about for years to come
I guess that's why they give us names
So few old men can say they saw us reign when we were young."

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Overseas Adventure (Part 3)

2010-08-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

Overnight Train from Moscow to St. Petersburg
* My berth-mate was Maxim. A St. Petersburg citizen who owned his own Telecom business.
- Wondered who I voted for.
- Wondered how long the shitty economy would last.
- Knew little about hybrids and alternative energy.
- Looked a little nervous, but was interested in meeting an American out of coincidence.
- Wondered why Jon was so interested in Russian history that he studied it in college.
- It was extremely interesting because we both knew we would never see each other again, and therefore willing to talk about U.S. and Russian leaders.
~ I think he was hesitant to give his honest opinion about Putin & Medvedev until I started ragging on the Bush administration.
~ It sounded as if he wishes some of the country's communist economic elements were still in place.
- I was uncomfortable sleeping in the berth with a stranger, and thus only got about an hour or two of slumber.
* Upon arrival, we walked by cabbie after cabbie until we stopped to talk to a man named Sergey, who loved his Mercedes. So much so, that I heard "Mercedes" about 6 times from the time he picked us up until dropoff at the hotel.
* It was cool though, because he proceeded to point out landmarks throughout the city along the drive, while telling us of his experience singing in a choir at Carnegie Hall.

St. Petersburg, Russia
* Day one in St. Petersburg was very similar to day one in Moscow. We got in town and went sight-seeing right-off-the-bat.
- Walked down Nevsky Prospect (the main thoroughfare, offering wonderful architecture and shopping.)
- Church of the Spilled Blood
~ mosaics all over the interior, which had to have taken many years to finish.
~ the difference between St. Basil's (Moscow) and the Church of the Spilled Blood was the age (St. Basil's - 1561, Spilled Blood - 1907) and the Western influence was evident.

* All of St. Petersburg had a greater Western European influence from Peter's time spent in Italy before his return to rule, and establish St. Petersburg as the capital of Russia to take advantage of its access to the Gulf of Finland.
*The Hermitage (formerly the Winter Palace for emperors and empresses in St. Petersburg)
- It's F-ing Huge
- The architecture was the most interesting aspect.
~ The Garden Room - has fountains along all four sides, with four more fountains all similar to each other throughout. Pillars supporting its large area, the entire room was once filled with fresh plants, having woven walls of marble to support ivy-like greenery. It was really spectacular.
- The Thrown Room - The largest and most extravagant room I've ever been in. When I walked in, I immediately thought of The Sound of Music. It felt like I was at an extravagant ball in the 18th century.

Pushkin, Russia (suburb of St. Petersburg, named for the poet - Alexander Pushkin)

* Remember Sergey? During our ride to the hotel from the train station, he had me flip through a three-ring binder of tours he offered while simultaneously giving a taste of his Tour Guide capabilities. Well, one of the tours was of Pushkin and the Summer Palace, which we decided to do in the a.m. before our departing flight. Finally learning that navigating Russia was about haggling, we were able to hire his services (including dropoff at the airport) for about 1/3 of the listed price in the binder.
* Amber Room
- Welp Thrown Room (from above), I take it back. The Amber Room was and likely will be the coolest, most intricately assembled room I will ever see in my entire life. The entire room was constructed using amber (dried sap, used to store mosquitoes for dinosaur recreation.) The walls, ceiling, molding, and even the intricately molded frames surrounding mirrors and windows in the room. ++ In fact, if you would like to learn more about the Amber Room, a podcast that I listen to did an episode on it (upon my recommendation, I might add.) Stuff You Missed In History
- Unfortunately, pictures are not allowed in the room. Wah-wah.

Misc. Notes
* KU beat Missouri - Suck it, Slavers.
* Renaissance Marriott - St. Petersburg is the nicest hotel I've ever stayed in.
* I didn't eat 3 meals in a day the entire trip, and actually ate 1 meal multiple times.
* I smoked 1 shitty, dried-up Cuban cigar… and 2 Awesome Ones, giving me a good buzz.
* Interesting Quotes:
- Life has started.
- Pay attention in each moment. You will never get that moment back.
- Do unto others… You can't retract your actions.

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Overseas Adventure (Part 2)

2010-08-16T12:00:00.002-05:00

Moscow, Russia
* Five years ago, my brother-in-law Jon went to Moscow with a tourist group. Apparently, it was a different time then because he was pulled aside and taken to a windowless, cinder-block room separated from civility by a stainless-steel door. Fittingly, he describes the room as also having a stainless steel table and hanging heat lamp serving as a light. With no way to communicate with the three corrupt security guards, he solitarily explained the possessions he was bringing into their country until the tour guide had the wherewithal to assist by pounding on the two-inch piece of steel protecting the government employees bribery causes. A simple payment of 100 Rubles (~$4.00) let him off the hook with no injuries, however a bruised ego and extraordinary tale would suffice. He told us this story on the flight from Paris to Moscow. Therefore, the immediate relevance of this story lies at the forefront of my/our minds as we enter customs upon landing.
* By sheer luck, we were greeted at the baggage claim by a man originally from Boston (and extremely proud of that fact), who just-so-happened to work at the U.S. Embassy! He was waiting for a friend landing soon.
- "Should we take the Green or the Red?" - Red: an attendant cracks your bags and goes to town. Green: tourists exit the terminal without claim of any of their possessions.
- "Go Green. In fact, I just walked through the side door over there without so much as saying 'Hey' to somebody, let alone a metal-detector^^," Boston said.
* The Green exit was barren. It was a 30-foot long horseshoe with abandoned stainless steel podiums, tables (with accompanying chairs), and a dusty baggage x-ray that has stood idle for quite some time. (This description is miles from giving the room justice, but an American taking a photograph of the ghost-room likely would have gotten me arrested, or worse.)
* On our drive to the hotel, Nichole pointed out that our newly acquired contact at the U.S. Embassy actually tailed us to our exit to confirm we were not hassled. "Why didn't we get his name?" she asked in the same breath. "Yeah, that probably would have been a good idea," all three of us simultaneously thought.
^^ (Pertaining to the metal detector) When meeting our driver after exiting the airport, we were unaware of how we were supposed to tip/pay him. Therefore, upon re-entry to the terminal I was one of two people to walk through the metal-detector while four gentlemen walked right by the security station. It was appalling, ludicrous, and hilarious all at the same time. Honestly, if I had the option to never have to mess with security when boarding a plane, I would take it.

* Billboards I saw on the drive from the airport:
- One encouraging people to read.
- A McDonalds one promoting the GreekMac
- A brand-new Infinity for under $10,000 - Which Nichole, Jon, and I decided we would do it, but wondered what our family would think if we all returned, rolling in Infinities. Also, can you imagine the popularity of a 'Duty-Free' car purchasing program? I can and it would be glorious.
* 97% of Russian women can pull off the outfit they are wearing. Right now, it's the tight jeans with knee-high boots, and It's Awesome.

This was the entrance to Red Square, and my favorite photo of the trip.

* Lenin's right hand in a fist?
* Met a dude that lives in Prairie Village in line to check out Lenin's Mosuleum.
* Walked through St. Basil's
- very old (1400s?), staircase was awesome.
- windows now cover the openings, but likely didn't in the old days and the arms for the torches were still there.
* Later we thought about how poorly everything was cared for. It seems as though there is little preservation of the artwork and history.

* I bought an $18.00 cup of Bailey's & Coffee that was about 6 oz.
* Also at the hotel bar, Jon & I met a couple from New York. They were very curious about the Detroit Lions score (which we did not know), come to find out she (Bree) was from Michigan (went to Michigan St.) and he was originally from Boston.

* The Armory @ the Kremlin
- The coolest part (for me) were all the carriages used to transport dignitaries from Moscow to Europe.
~ One was a huge sleigh (which makes sense) constructed entirely of wood with iron runners. Large enough to hold eight people, covered (obviously), and drawn by 8+ horses, the thing must have weighed 3 tons.
~ On the other side of the aisle, there was a very small sleigh intended as a toy for 1 or 2 children, likely pulled by a pony.
- Other cool shit:
~ Tsar's chairs and pedestals
~ Guns (where the pins pulled forward)
* During our walk to the Church of the Ascension we ventured along the Kremlin wall next to the Moscow River. As we neared the end of the Kremlin's wall, 1…2…3…4 dark gray, militaristic trucks passed with the bed covered by a heavy fabric with rib-like metal supports from side to side. The rear was bare, however, giving us view of multiple Russian soldiers complete with long, gray coats and ushankas. Then 5…6…7…8 passed before we made a comment about it and pressed forward to the Church of the Ascension. 9…10…11…12…13. "I'm definitely more aware of my surroundings than earlier," I said.^^ The actual number of trucks (and larger number of soldiers) is unclear, but it seemed like something out of a movie. Like the Russian military was in search of someone or something, but not in an actual war-like scenario. Good thing I was wearing a mustard-yellow jacket to stick out like a stupid American amongst all the black and gray donned by those used to the dirty, sand/salt-filled streets.

^^ (pertaining to the above statement about 'being aware of my surroundings') - This is my favorite part of traveling. When experiencing life in my corporate job, there is little that varies from day to day. It becomes monotonous. Boring. Being aware is the essence of being human, and is the driving force for learning and remembering. Personally, whenever I am in an instant or episode where I am enjoying myself, I make an attempt to listen more acutely and look around to gather as much from the scene I can. Later in life, I'll have more detail for telling others about this experience. If you know me, I'm a bit of a storyteller… a bullshitter, of sorts. Getting the best stories requires being aware. Feeling alive.

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Overseas Adventure (Part 1)

2010-08-15T13:17:00.008-05:00

Friday night, I was discussing some upcoming trips with a friend. One next month to NYC and a second next summer to France. Coincidently, the next day, in a bedroom drawer I stumbled on a Legal Pad with notes from a 2008 excursion to Russia with my sister and brother-in-law. I've transcribed those notes here. If nothing else, it should waste some time as you browse the net.

Islip, New York
* "Who are the assholes that get a stretch limo from Islip?" - We had a car service pick us up from the airport and drive us to the City. They were out of TownCars, so we rode in a limo with complementary drinks.

New York, New York
* "Take the '2' Train to 96th, then the '1' to 116th, and double-back to 2911 Broadway." Directions to meet friends for dinner.
* I took the '1' to 96th, then followed signs to catch a shuttle-bus taking the place of the '2' (under construction) and got off at 116th.
* I was lost. In Harlem.
* After reconvening with Lindsey, part of my trek to Havana Central took me through Morningside Park, where (according to Adrienne) "People get pistol-whipped there."
* Lindsey has never failed me with restaurants. Havana Central was delicious. I had the pork.
* Went to 'Le Monde' for dessert.
- Adrienne's Port and Dave's 'Mona Lisa' would have been the ultimate combination.
- 'Innis & Hull' was not available, so I requested the waitress "Give me a beer you consider fit for a king."

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Prepare Yourselves

2010-06-17T20:05:00.003-05:00

Was in Salina last week. Saw some friends and made some new ones. This weekend, I'm headed to Tulsa for a meeting with my sister and brother-in-law to determine our next international venture. I'll also be taking in a Drillers game and seeing Drive-By Truckers in concert (their last show before opening for Petty.)

Currently, I'm preparing my 2010.5 compilation album. After the 2010 Set List, Dn recommended I do a July release and he will take care of the winter album. There's quite a few songs I'm excited about. Having only 6 months to gather the materials many don't have sentimental value, however there are some pretty catchy tunes and nearly every artist varies from the previous winter album.

Talk to you soon!

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Our Nations T.J.

2010-06-02T18:28:00.004-05:00

As many of you know (all of you, probably), I went to a wedding in D.C. over the weekend. If you need a recap, visit Dn.

This is T.J.

(Please note that I emailed a fellow traveler to obtain one of the photos to create the animation before Dn posted his .gifs. Not that it matters, just that I'm not a total copycat phony.)

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NEW ARCADE FIRE!!

2010-05-24T19:40:00.001-05:00

A. The Suburbs

AA. Month of May

http://www.arcadefire.com/

Welp....

2010-04-28T19:35:00.002-05:00

Scratch one of my goals.

DAMN!

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Ohio & Tennessee

2010-04-26T20:02:00.006-05:00

New album due out in a few weeks. Here's the first single I've heard from it.

The National - Bloodbuzz Ohio

--------

I'm headed to Memphis this weekend to the Beale St. Music Festival. Traveling from Owasso, OK in a Buick with my parents, sister, and brother-in-law. Goals include: getting mom to see Band of Horses on Sunday, dad to see Drive-by Truckers on Saturday, and getting Both to see Flaming Lips on Saturday! Will report back.

Feel free to check out the most eclectic lineup in festival history. (check your volume)

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There's Hope for our Future

2010-04-02T22:08:00.002-05:00

I've also added a song by Freelance Whales, which the jury is still out on it.

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Chomp, Chomp

2010-03-05T14:22:00.001-06:00

V.V. Brown - Shark in the Water

For the ladies.

The music I'm giving you is so fresh, lala.com doesn't even have it as a link.

Hipster Island

2010-02-27T23:02:00.007-06:00

You're stuck on Hipster Island. Choose one.

Hacky Sack / Frisbee

Moustache / Beard

Chuck Taylors / Tom's Shoes

Amy Sedaris / David Sedaris

Look Up at the Stars

2010-02-21T21:14:00.003-06:00

'Look Up' is another older song (from their 2003 album - Heart) that I just heard a few weeks ago. I like it alot. Stars is a band that I discovered with their 2005 release - Set Yourself On Fire. It was one of my favorite albums for a couple years. I missed an opportunity to see Stars in roughly 2007 and still kick myself for not catching the show.

Look to the right to see 'Look Up'

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-09T17:38:00.004-06:00

I send my Love Long Distance ----->

(Added a terrible music video of entire song)

Jeremy's Spoken

2010-02-01T17:56:00.001-06:00

New (Old) song over there ------->

Enigk makes his second appearance on the Blog in the last couple weeks.

New Feature!

2010-01-28T18:41:00.002-06:00

To the right --->

Now you'll be able to listen to what I am listening to! Get ready, because I'm hoping this will keep my blog updated.

____________________________________________________________

What else is new, you ask?

Hmmmm...

My moustache is coming in pretty good, I guess.

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2009 Setlist

2010-01-23T15:00:00.009-06:00

Every year, my friend Dn creates his Soundtrack for the year, and three of my recommendations made the album. Shortly after I gave him a few songs to download for 2010, he recommended I do my own compilation. So after a month of contemplating, compiling, procrastinating, and selection, I've come up with a pretty good 2009 Setlist.

Some Rules: There can be no songs that have already appeared on his soundtrack, and I must shy away from the same artists (sans An Horse... and Jenny Owen Youngs.) Nevermind... Rules suck. It's pretty simple - the tunes are some of my favorites from the year, remind me of an experience from the previous year, or have some sort of significance from my life during 2009.

If you would like a copy of the Setlist (CD or mp3) please contact me via email, Facebook, or leave contact info in the comments section and I'll get in touch.

Initially, I envisioned the album as four parts (spring, summer, fall, winter), however that would make half the album upbeat only to bring the listener down throughout. Therefore, no rhyme-or-reason behind the order, other than maximied listening pleasure. I've also included a "Meatloaf Meter" (MM) to indicate if the song has a "Meatloaf Moment" - our friend Dave used this term describing The Polyphonic Spree as a song that builds and builds to a musical climax.

Thanks to spinner.com, I believe 2009 was one of the best musical years of my life. I hope you all enjoy my 2009 Setlist.

An Horse - Company (MM)

This was the first An Horse song I ever heard. I don't know if it was the build up of the song, Damon's drum playing (we're on first-name basis now), the fact that they're just a two-piece group, or the overall catchiness of the tune, but I was hooked. It was also the opener for their gig at Record Bar last summer. It was the first concert I've been to by myself, with a smile ear-to-ear throughout the entire set. An Horse was my favorite band of 2009.

Company - An Horse

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

When I initially heard Home I thought The Magnetic Zeros were trying too hard to be The White Stripes. However, occasionally airplay led the song to grow on me. It was also featured on NBC's Community.

Home - Edward Sharpe & The Mag...

Mumford & Sons - Little Lion Man (MM)

Little Lion Man barely made it into 2009. In fact, I may not have heard it until 2010, but it's my Setlist and the song is F-ing Fantastic!

Little Lion Man - Mumford & So...

Jenny Owen Youngs - Voice On Tape

I assume the voicemail in this song is real. The bit of reality given is something I love about indie music. When pop music is written by one person and performed by a separate singer, the song loses its authenticity (to me.) Voice On Tape has an intimacy to it.

Voice On Tape - Jenny Owen You...

Grizzly Bear - While You Wait for Others (MM)

I don't care what some critics say. Veckatimest is a great album. And apparently Grizzly Bear is an acquired taste, so I went ahead and put While You Wait for Others on the Setlist because it may be the most awkwardly-rocking song of 2009. Given enough spins, you'll emulate me and reach for the volume knob each time the chorus repeats.

(Song is not licensed to post... Trust)

Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind (feat. Alicia Keys)

Being so popular and (possibly) overplayed, I went back-and-forth about 100 times before putting Empire State of Mind on the Setlist. However, my NYC trip in October was a highlight of the year full of them, and Floyd's apartment was the first place/time I heard the song. It was fitting. Once again, I can't thank Floyd, Lindsey, Alison, Adrienne, and Autumn enough for such a wonderful time. Also, the Setlist needed some rap.

Empire State Of Mind (feat. Al...

Charles Bradley & The Menahan Street Band - The World (Is Going Up in Flames)

OK. First of all, R&B was big for me this year. It all started when I purchased Stevie Wonder's Songs in the Key of Life. The World was my favorite R&B song in 2009, but you'll get a solid dose with the rest of the Setlist. The song also reminds me of a night in the summer around 4:00 a.m. in Ry and Jam's apartment, when I had them Youtube it.

The World (Is Going Up In Flam...

Tom Waits - Blue Skies

I hate television. Therefore, paying for cable just doesn't make 'cents' for me. However, Network TV makes me dumber, so I put myself between a rock-and-a-hard-place. Uhh Yeah Dude is the weekly episode that I cannot wait for each week (is that grammatically correct?) It's a Dance-cast. You should hop on iTunes, download it, and get on point. Blue Skies was the intro for episode 184.

Blue Skies - Tom Waits

Jack Peñate - Pull My Heart Away

This was my second favorite song of 2009 (behind 1901, which was on Dn's Soundtrack).

Pull My Heart Away - Jack Peña...

Passion Pit - Little Secrets

Heard Little Secrets regularly and found the chorus catchy. Never appreciated it until I saw Passion Pit on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Recommendation: put it on while you're on the treadmill.

Little Secrets - Passion Pit

The Swell Season - In These Arms

Let's slow it down a bit. Doesn't remind me of much, but is similar to Voice On Tape in that it seems genuine.

In These Arms - The Swell Seas...

Jeremy Enigk - Mind Idea

In June I went to my friend Jake's house-warming pool party. Whenever I see Jake I come bearing music. Our friendship is one where I expose him to music other than Jimmy Buffett. At the time, this was my favorite song and was on the CD at the party. Mojitos got the best of me that evening, which culminated in a discussion with Kris's mom about tripping on mushrooms in Las Vegas (which I've never done, but think would be quite exciting.)

Mind Idea - Jeremy Enigk

Raphael Saadiq - 100 Yard Dash

"You mean Toni Tony Raphael?" Bryan quipped.

Saadiq was a member of Toni Tony Tone. Don't hold it against him.

100 Yard Dash - Raphael Saadiq

Miike Snow - Animal

Another aquired taste. I think it's catchy. If you disagree, too bad.

Also, I'm thinking of changing my name to Gaavin.

Animal - Miike Snow

Lee Fields - Honey Dove

When I was at my favorite record store, Love Garden, looking for the Charles Bradley 45 (which is extremely difficult to get a hold of. Apparently, all the Menahan Street Band stuff is as well.) the associate recommended Lee Fields. She had her nose pierced and we talked about the recent Raphael Saadiq show at the Voodoo Lounge. She was nice. We listened to this song.

Honey Dove - Lee Fields & The ...

The Avett Brothers - The Perfect Space

Over Thanksgiving Kris and I took a road trip to Las Vegas. On the return trip, somewhere in Utah, I listened intently to The Perfect Space for the first time. The first verse was so meaningful I restarted the song as my compatriot slept in the passenger seat unaware of how moving the song was. On the BS Report yesterday (the Jan. 21 episode with Jason Reitman), Bill Simmons proposed that most individuals remake their self-being about every 8-10 years. I believe 2009 is smack-dab in the middle of this transition for me.

(Disclosure: this song was chosen prior to my friend Joe's post.)

The Perfect Space - The Avett ...

Bright Eyes - Easy/Lucky/Free

Also in November I attended a funeral for a good friend's father. It was the most inspirational service celebrating a man's life I have ever been to. The man was a rock for his family and community, and it showed as multiple people from all aspects of his life shared an experience that they will cherish and remember him by for the rest of their life. It was a stirring tribute to my friend's exceptional father.

In the beginning of 2009 I occasionally thought about my mortality. Not so much in a discouraging or scared way, but as two questions: "What am I going to do to make a difference in this world?" and "How do I want to live my life?" I won't delve into what conclusions I came to, but to be half the man that my friend's father was will be more than enough to make my life complete. May he rest in peace.

Easy/lucky/free - Bright Eyes

Honorable Mention

2010-01-20T19:53:00.023-06:00

I'm tying up the loose ends on a 2009 CD that will be posted in the next few days. This is a list of a few songs not quite worthy of production. In reality, I just wanted to test the stream links to lala.com. Any feedback (good or bad) is appreciated.

The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition

Sweet Disposition - The Temper...

The Real Ones - Every Dog Has Its Day

Every Dog Has His Day - The Re...

Lee Fields - Love Comes and Goes

Love Comes And Goes - Lee Fiel...

Eels - Little Bird

Little Bird - Eels

Lupe Fiasco feat. Matthew Santos - Superstar

Superstar (featuring Matthew S...

Fighting to Stay Alively

2009-12-06T19:47:00.003-06:00

Last night I watched SNL, then went to bed.

I had a dream that I was at the taping of last night's episode with host Blake Lively (Me-Ow!), but did not make it past the monologue. Here's how it went: Opening Bit (Armisen played the president, yada-yada-yada), intro showing the cast, and Lively walked out to the stage and proposed following her as she took us through the previous week of her first SNL experience.

At that point, I probably would have followed those stems (yeah, that's a Clueless reference) into a lion's den, which is not far from where she took me. Adjacent to stage-left there was a dark pool - This was a dream, remember. - and she dove in expecting the audience to succumb to her request. However, I was the only brave (maybe desperate) soul to take the plunge.

Know let it be known that I'm a pretty good swimmer. My dad swam for KU, I was in lessons as a baby, and used to swim a mile (multiple times per summer) in a lake for boy scouts every summer.

As I entered the water, I was aware that I did not take a very good, deep breath for an extended dive, but figured Blake would not keep me submerged for too long since this was Live television. As I followed her in the direction of backstage, there was an interesting setting of an old-timey school room with children from the 'Bodies' exhibit facing our direction, but not moving an inch. It was pretty disturbing, but what was most bothersome was that there was no air pocket at the top of the room and I beginning to need it.

Ms. Lively then grabbed my arm and pointed me in the direction of the open door further back in the room, so I motioned for her to go but she shook her head as though to say, "Don't worry about me. I am fine." I didn't know what to do, but decided that my survival was now #1 on the priority list. If Blake turns down an opportunity to live, that's her choice. So I frantically swam for the door, which was dimly lit as though there may be an exit for the air I so desperately needed. When I poked my head out the door I looked up, and my heart stopped. There was no air. I was drowning. This is how it ends.

Time
Moved
Slow

*COUGH*

*COUGH*

GAAASSSSPPPP!!!

I WOKE UP!

In the middle of the night I woke up from this nightmare coughing hysterically, gasping for air, and relieved that I was alive. This has never happened to me before, and hopefully never will again. How did it happen? How can a dream seem so real, that I will hold my breath until I awake with the most fundamental desire to breath?

Blake Lively almost killed me in my dreams.

Bette Midler on My Mind

2009-07-10T23:48:00.003-05:00

I still have my AOL account. It's old, yet effective.

Lately it's taught me how to do this:

----{--{-@

Now if I can hang onto that until Feb. 14th
.

Sorry it's been so long...

2009-06-19T23:39:00.002-05:00

By the way, I ride the bus now.

Eighth Grade Algebra Notes?

2009-05-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

From: Mom
Sent: Wed 5/13/2009 10:38 AM
To: Gav
Subject: Just need to ask...

Gavin,

I am cleaning the basement, and I found your thick notebook. It is all your homework/assignments etc. very neatly put in a tabbed organized fashion. The teacher is Mrs. Seiler, and you were in the 8th grade.

Do you want this or should I toss it?

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-12T21:38:00.002-05:00

Found It.

2009-04-26T21:40:00.000-05:00

I Live for Live

2009-04-26T00:34:00.000-05:00

This evening, I saw An Horse at a bar in Westport and enjoyed it very much, which is fortunate because I was excited about it for about a month prior (more on the gig later.) As I was in preparations for the show, I started to reminisce on some of the concerts I’ve seen over the last few years (sadly, not nearly as many as when living in Lawrence.) I truly enjoy watching bands perform for a multitude of people they have no relation to, however are a part of these persons' lives - otherwise, they would not be in attendance. Also, this is not a comprehensive list from my life, but...

A reverse-chronological list of concerts I have record of:

Spoon, Apr. 20, 2008, Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS
The last show of their tour, which was originally scheduled for September or October, but had to be postponed due to the band being on SNL that week. Their bass player is from Lawrence, so they’ve been adamant about returning on a regular bass-is. (Get it? *Rimshot*)

Polyphonic Spree, Oct. 20, 2007, Granada, Lawrence, KS
I drank extremely too much prior to this show, and regretfully do not have many recollections of a show you will read more about at the bottom.

Arcade Fire, Sep. 28, 2007, Starlight Theatre, Kansas City, MO
Because of the stationary seating with no standing room at the front, watching a rocking show at Starlight sucks, and the band realized that about :30 seconds in.

The Shins, Feb. 12, 2007, Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS

Secret Machines, May 19, 2007, Highline Ballroom, New York, NY
I took my first trip to NY to see this show. Because I attended the show as an individual, there is no second witness to David Bowie’s wave from the VIP seats along the upper edge of the venue, but it happened and that is the biggest/closest I’ve been to a celebutante. Thanks, again, Lindsey for your gracious accommodations and wonderful Dijon-chicken dinner.

Secret Machines, Death Cab for Cutie, Keane, Mates of State (Bleeding Kansas Arts & Music Festival), Aug 5, 2006, Burcham Park, Lawrence, KS
This music festival was a lot of fun, and HOT (outdoor festival in Kansas, in August, Blah.) Chris, Dan, Shawn, and I knew the girl working the beer station, so we cooled ourselves with free Miller Lites.

Nickel Creek, Apr 14, 2006, Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS

Gogol Bordello, Apr 4, 2006, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS
Monica’s idea. It was weird, but I’m kinda weird so it worked out.

Aimee Mann, Jan 29, 2006, Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS

Animal Liberation Orchestra, Nov 7, 2005, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS

Mates of State, Sep 27, 2005, Granada, Lawrence, KS

Coldplay, Sep 21, 2005, Verizon Amphitheatre, Bonner Springs, KS
This ticket was given to my by a friend who got sick the day of the concert. We had seats, as opposed to sitting in the lawn, and they were fantastic.

Rilo Kiley, May 11, 2005, Granada, Lawrence, KS

The Shins, May 8, 2005, Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS

The Fiery Furnaces, Apr 20, 2005, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS
This band is more upbeat than most, and on this particular evening I felt like I had taken whatever drugs they were on because the entire show was a medley being played at double-time. It was Fast and Rocked, almost like we stepped into a Fiery Furnace.

Kings of Convenience, Mar 16, 2005, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS
I went to see a girl. The band’s CD is still with me, however the girl is not.

Modest Mouse, Feb 22, 2005, Uptown Theater, Kansas City, MO

Secret Machines, Feb 10, 2005, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS
The show that started my love for this rockin' band.

Death Cab for Cutie, Oct 15, 2004, Beaumont Club, Kansas City, MO
Chris and I drank quarts of Red Bull and vodka’s on our way to this show. There are many stories that came out of the evening, including: falling off a chair, Chris spotting and approaching a table deemed the hottest in the bar and our group subsequently hanging out with girls from Oklahoma, Blaine and his friend travelling to Oklahoma to meet said women a few weeks later and having a terrible time.

Concerts I do not have record of, however are etched into memory:

Polyphonic Spree, Summer 2007, Denver
The best live performance I have ever seen. ~26 members, 2 ½ hours, and confetti cannons. I was in awe.

Tilly and the Wall, 2005 or 2006, Bottleneck, Lawrence, KS
This concert had to be in the summertime because the AC was broken in the bar, creating a sauna for the band and fans. The conditions particularly created havoc for Tilly and the Wall because the have a tap dancing percussionist. Before the show started, the poor girl was getting buckets of ice from the bar. By the end of the gig, we could barely breath it was so hot in there, not to mention all the hipster funk fermenting in the humid air.

Royal Retort

2009-04-12T21:47:00.001-05:00

The Royals scored one run on opening day. Three rows in front of me, the rambunctious gentlemen and their acquintances down the row were unconcerned that they were standing during a majority of the second inning, when Billy Butler crossed the dish. The two men directly in front of me were not happy about the situation and scolded the disinterested fans, which lead to this rebuttal:

"Have some fucking fun, man! We're just trying to start the fucking wave!"

.

Raisix Kirunch

2009-04-05T19:30:00.000-05:00

About 2 months ago I started eating cereal before work. Prior to this morning routine, I would go straight to work (~4:35 a.m.) and eat some yogurt and toast with peanut butter (we've got a toaster in the break room, no big deal.) Now I enjoy a hearty bowl every morning and depart at approximately 4:45 a.m. in a much better mood than the previous phase of my cereal-less existence.

Just eating cereal doesn't make my practice enjoyable, but the transition from one box to the next is what I really get excited about. Now, let me explain, I love sugary cereals just as much as the next guy (although I'm not a fan of chocolaty varieties, and therefore they never make my rotation), but I also understand that the whole grain/healthier kinds are necessary for my teeth and waistline to remain within reason. Therefore, I maintain a box-by-box rule that consists of sugury/non-sugar/yummy/eh/contains red-4/Oat Boats.

Now each of us has experienced the half-bowl situation when the box empties, leaving only enough a kindergartner might find satisfying. This brings a conundrum which I usually plan for the previous Sunday at Hy-Vee as I stand in aisle 6 encountered with a host of options to create my own Cereal Transition Creation! For example, just when my (generic) Cinnamon Toast Crunch drops only cinnamon and sugar in the bowl, I've got a box of (generic) Crispix waiting in the wings to accompany the swirled squares for Crispinnamon Crunch. Second, when the (generic) Corn Flakes supply runs thin, I'll combine them with a fresh box of Fruity Pebbles (obviously, generic), however there is an adjustment that must be made: for proper mixing purposes, the floating Pebbles must be poured first with the left-over Flakes dusting the top of this mound of Fruity Flakes. If reversed, the flakes would sink and the pebbles would float, wrecking the entire purpose of the exercise.

Finally, I would like to share my best creation to date. A while ago, Kix were on sale and I was able to purchase the small box at a reasonable expense (unbeknownst to me it was so pricey). The previous week I had been enjoying Hy-Vee's version of Raisin Bran Crunch, and when I combined these two lightly-sugared (sometimes I break the mold, sue me) it was one of the greatest cereal experiences I have had in a long, long time.

* Today, I purchased a box of Wheaties to accompany the leftover generic Honey Comb. I'm worried about this one, but could be pleasantly surprised if the ratio of Honey Comb to Wheaties is high. I'm thinking: Wheatey Comb

Lancelot

2009-04-02T14:59:00.000-05:00

He broke his collarbone, so I thought: What ever happened to this?

Any of my people that read People?

.

Spin Doctors

2009-03-28T15:10:00.000-05:00

When you have some time to kill and want to listen to the radio, I HIGHLY recommend Spinner.com radio

In Your (Own) Eyes

2009-03-18T17:41:00.000-05:00

Personally, I find it odd to hear Peter Gabriel sing about Peter Gabriel in a Vampire Weekend song.

...although he describes how unnatural that feels, so whatever.

Hot Chip & Peter Gabriel - Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa

.

Teenie Nicotine Fiend

2009-03-15T19:48:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to decide how I feel about this. Part of me says, "It's terrible." Part of me says, "It's funny." All of me says, "The Chinese culture has a major problem with cigarette smoking."

Katsak Fever

2009-03-01T16:30:00.000-06:00

Dn introduced me to Uhh Yeah Dude. I added Jonathan Larroquette as a friend on Facebook. This video was added to his profile by a fan like myself.

From Shane Allen, "Circa 1992, Mike Rowe (host of Dirty Jobs) worked in (very) late-night TV selling crap to idiots on QVC. He used the opportunity to its full comedic potential."

Sacked Up

2009-02-20T19:22:00.000-06:00

Tonight I bought two bottles of wine from a liquor store near my house. Upon returning home, I discovered the first bottle was sacked in a Wal-Mart French Loaf Bread bag accompanying the second bottle in a larger Spencer's Gifts plastic sack.

I really don't care since their functions are transposable, but it is a little queer. However, I guess every business is attempting to cut costs as much as possible, so it only makes sense to use free bags rather than buying some.

...now I'm going to cork that Rouge. See you all tomorrow!

.

Dinosaur and Robot

2009-02-16T18:01:00.000-06:00

Boo's Now?

2009-02-08T13:26:00.000-06:00

A-Rod + Steroids + Yankees + ESPN = One of the many reasons I don't have cable

.

Pill Pie, The Science Pry(??? - Who cares? I'm sick.)

2009-02-04T19:30:00.000-06:00

Dear Science,

I'm ready for meals to be available in pill form. Some evenings after work, I don't have any food in the cupboards, refrigerator, and frankly, nothing sounds tasty to me that night. I could go to the grocery store, for something will likely wet my tongue, or even stop for fast food. Heck, going out to a sit down restaurant would probably fire the neurons associated with my stomach after only a whiff. But tonight, I don't really feel like eating. I've got a bit of a cold. I'm tired from my 11 hour work days. I want to pop a cocktail of pills and climb into bed. Is that too much to ask?

I'm a science-guy, so I'm not asking you to change your current agenda. Maybe just make the meal-pill next on the list of To Do's.

Sincerely,
Gav

WhoaGiraffes!

2009-01-31T12:54:00.000-06:00

Steve Hairry Predicament

2009-01-28T20:32:00.000-06:00

(I usually do not talk to the person cutting my hair. I have it cut about once every 4 months, so just cut my hair so I can leave, please.)

*Snip*

*Snip*

Stylist: Oh, isn't Journey just Awesome!?

I then notice "Lights" in the background and start laughing much harder than is explainable, almost hysterically.

Stylist: I guess you don't like them.

Me: No, the question just threw me off guard. I like a little Steve Perry now and then, just like everybody else.

*Snip*

(The lady cutting my hair is approximately 40, and at this time I realize she is likely to have every Journey album, a few t-shirts, and at least 2 posters hanging somewhere in her residence.)

*Snip*

*Snip*

Stylist: I think Faithfully is my favorite.

*Snip*

Me: Was it the song you lost your virginity to?*

*this response was in my head. I really wanted to say it, but needed to leave the barbershop with my ears intact.

.

Remember When...

2009-01-23T19:00:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday, prior to the inauguration, dn and I were emailing eachother about Floyd's and my texting conversation earlier in the day (Floyd went to DC for the event):

Me: set up shop yet?
Floyd: No - this is a giant shitshow

Dn and I both conceded that we would serve witness to the memorial event planted in our cubicles, which lead to his recommendation for this exposé (to which he may correspond, or maybe not...)

As you (the reader) and I grow old, there will be a new generation behind us (children? blah...) that will ask "Where were you when..." and we will have to reflect upon that day and share what we were doing or thinking at the time. I will fill you in on a few of the events that shaped the youth of our generation.

Where Were You When...

The Berlin Wall Fell?

I vaguely remember sitting on the floor watching it on TV. This was a big deal, because at the time my parents would pull the fuse out of the television so my sisters and I would not sit around and watch it after school and in the evenings. For big events (elections, deaths, etc) my dad would put the fuse in and the family could watch. Yeah, it was the 80s, but felt like the 60s.

The Two Towers Went Down?

On my way out the door to go to work. My roommate Zach ran up from his bedroom in the basement saying there was something going on because his radio alarm had Peter Jennings giving a live broadcast detailing the devastating event. We turned on the TV just in time to see the first tower fall, and I watched long enough to see the second. Sick to my stomach, I drove 30 minutes to work. It was one of the worst days at the ski shop I had ever had.

OJ's Verdict?

I was in class (8th grade?) at the time. No one really cared, except my friend Jake who "Went to the bathroom" and proceeded to run down the hallway in jubilation yelling, "He's Innocent! Not Guilty!" His response to the trial still perplexes me.

Princess Diana Being Runover?

I came home drunk where mom and dad were watching the coverage on television. I was 16, therefore avoiding lengthy conversation.

Gulf War Started?

My dad and I were in the basement working on my model train listening to the coverage on the radio. He mentioned that, "you'll probably remember this moment for the rest of your life." So I did.

Some other events we listed (that I do not currently have a quality recollection story.) Please feel free to share your own "Where were you when..." tales in the comments section or your respective blog.

Challenger explodes
Afganistan/Iraq war starts
Bush/Gore undecided election night
Columbine
Waco
Kobain suicide
’89 San Fran earthquake
’89 mini stock market crash
OKC bombing
LA riots

Cliché It Again... I Dare You.

2009-01-22T17:39:00.000-06:00

Now that 2008 is gone, it is my hope that these popular phrases from the year are as well.

"___________ is out-of-touch."

While the political figure I approve of populated it during the election, it was used extremely too much for my taste to describe his opponent. Now I'm hearing it used to describe everything from coaches to cereal. For example, "That Cap'n Crunch is out-of-touch," said Tony the Tiger.

"It is, what it is."

Really??? Then, what is it? Can you please be more discriptive than using its existence as the modifier. This is also a term predominant in sports, however an acquaintance of mine used it at the bar the other night. I then condescendingly questioned her about what it was. She disapproved.

"Think outside the box."

I've been hoping this one is gone since, ohhh, I don't know... 1994. It is my hope that one day people will automatically think of a new solution to an issue without having to be asked to "Think outside the fucking box". Damn-you to hell, Dilbert.

Yup, I'm Still Working...

2009-01-20T17:27:00.000-06:00

From: Mom
Sent: Mon 1/5/2009 10:40 AM
To: Gav
Subject: Monday

Gavin,

Are you working today? Painters are here today.
________________________________________________

From: Mom
Sent: Thu 12/11/2008 3:06 PM
To: Gav
Subject: Thurs.

Hi Gavin,

Are you at work today? Dad and I are working upstairs :) Hugs, Mom
________________________________________________

From: Mom
Sent: Thu 10/2/2008 7:20 AM
To: Gav
Subject: Are you at work today?

.

Road Rage

2009-01-17T17:08:00.000-06:00

Cut this guy off and it'd be the worst road rage this galaxy has ever seen.

Ma Bell...

2009-01-17T00:05:00.000-06:00

*(From time to time, my mother sends emails with little significant information, but sent with love none-the-less. I will share some of these emails if they pass qualification.)

From: Mom
Sent: Monday, October 06, 2008 10:52 PM
To: Sister 1; Sister 2; Gav; Brother-in-law 1; Brother-in-law 2
Cc: Dad
Subject: Bridge class

Dad and I took first place in Bridge class tonight. :) About 18 – 20 people playing the game.

Give Me the Night

2009-01-14T21:53:00.000-06:00

I'll try and do better with the posting.

My friend Kris gave me The Best of George Benson this weekend. The irony was that we listened to a ton of George Benson while in Taos.

Here's a taste:

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T14:00:00.000-05:00

Back in Black Ice

2008-10-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Touche, AC/DC.

You've figured out your market.

Wal-mart.

I hate you.

Always.

Back to Life... Back to Virtual Reality

2008-10-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

*Background- For those of you who do not know me, my name is Gav. I work at a tech company, and therefore interact with a multitude of software, electrical, and mechanical engineers. Needless to say, many technical conversations about HTML, VisualBasic, C++, and (my personal favorite) stochastic algorithms are waayyy over my head.
________________________________________________________

For lack of a more effective delivery, the ALL CAPS is me yelling internally.

Nearly every day I stream the Adam Corolla Show at work (which dn suggested the podcasts last month and I endorse.) Yesterday morning during the news, or more recently referred to as "News Time!", Teresa shared a report out of Japan of an avatar divorce resulting in the 43-year-old divorcee murdering her avatar husband in a virtual world, and arrested for the crime ~ In Real Life. Fortunately, the Dallas News Crime Blog details the event. Personally, I just don't understand the fascination with the virtual world... well... I get part of it... I get the virtual sex for psychopaths part, but how do these people survive in the real world? You know, generate money to trade for goods and services, such as food, shelter, internet access...

This leads to my second inkling into the virtual world which happened Thursday. As many of you know, Microsoft Outlook is a common e-mail application for companies because of its compatibility with other MS products (Yeah, I know Floyd and Bag, gmail is Sooo Much Better, but the Man. makes us use Outlook.) Within Outlook my company has a Public For-Sale Board to post any items you are attempting to peddle, for example, I've bought some speakers, two rugs, and a Tripping Daisy album from co-workers throughout the facility. It is very convenient. Even for those attempting to buy and sell their virtual items:

From: XXXXXXXXXXXX
Posted At: Thursday, October 23, 2008 10:50 AM
Posted To: For Sale
Conversation: Selling World of Warcraft Account
Subject: Selling World of Warcraft Account

I am currently selling my World of Warcraft account. It has 3 70’s, a Warrior/Mage/Paladin. The Paladin is currently MH/BT/SWP geared for both Ret/Holy. I would like to get around 4-500 dollars for the whole account. I have checked on mmobay, my Paladin alone with current gear/rep/status is around 600 dollars. Serious Inquiries only please. Email me if you need any armories for any of the characters.

Are you serious!!!???!!!

$500!!!

This is truely flabberghasting to me. Maybe it's because I am extremely 'Thrifty' (I would say cheap, but it's my blog so I'm not going to call myself cheap), but I think there is something to be said for someone who spends that amount of money on a virtual character. First of all, if you are willing to spend $500 to buy some super-power-Paladin-geared-with-both-Ret/Holy, then you should have an obscene amount of computer time to BUILD UP YOUR OWN F-ING PALADIN! Secondly, if you need to inquire about 'Armories' before making any purchase (excluding buying a real-life castle, of course) then it is time to re-evaluate the security of your investments. For God's sake, THE VIRTUAL YOU DOESN'T DO ANYTHING TO ADVANCE SOCIETY! Finally, (I will say this with as little anger as possible) add up all the expenses associated with your current hobby/virtual-sex-fantasy-life over the last year: 'Gaming' computer - $2000, headset - $100, Mountain Dew - $1259, appreciated carpel-tunnel surgery expenses for the year to be cashed-in at age 50 - $3000, Internet access - $600, YOUR NEW F-ING PALADIN - $500, and the list goes on-and-on...

Personnally, I could care less what peoples' hobbies are, but let's just keep them that - Hobbies. EITHER BUILD UP YOUR OWN CHARACTER OR SPEND YOUR MONEY ON SOMETHING WORTHWHILE! GDamnit!

* I have never played World of Warcraft, but one of my instructors brought this clip in a couple of months ago and I thought it was fitting. As a precursor, you will want to know that Leroy is getting some food and really, really stoned.

M.A.F.antastic!

2008-10-23T22:12:00.000-05:00

*I bought a new camera a few weeks ago. This was a good way for me to learn some of its features, including .avi movies. We'll all suffer together, OK?

As stated in the video, I know next to nothing about cars. Approximately 9 months ago, the autoshop near my office said the Mass Air Flow Sensor was relatively easy to replace but did not have to be done immediately. That autoshop quoted me ~$485 for the part and ~$100 for labor to replace the M.A.F. Sensor. After researching on the internet, an associate at the auto parts store near my house concurred that replacing the part was a breeze. I bought the sensor, and following the return of my faulty piece this afternoon, the part I bought at Advance Autoparts cost $185.

The entire process took 2:30 and my knees were exhausted from being locked in place as I worked under the hood. The most frustrating part was not having a good light to see what I was doing all the time. The flashlight was OK, but not even close to being the most efficient, however, I did get somewhat lucky because not having a metric socket-set would have been detrimental.

All-in-all, the experience was good. I saved a few hundred dollars, learned a little about cars, and most importantly faced a situation that made me uncomfortable and succeeded. Accomplishment is an unequivical feeling of completion, knowledge, contentment, and pride. In my subjective opinion, every day a person is given opportunities, taking those opportunities and turning them into accomplishments is a way to gauge success in life. I like that.

Monday

2008-10-22T20:48:00.000-05:00

Here's what a typical Monday looks like for me. -you will likely never see a post from me on a Monday.

4:19 a.m. - Wake up, get dressed, make lunch & dinner (sandwiches, carrots, apples)
4:35 - Depart for work
4:59 - Clock-in

10:30 - Take a walk

1:30 p.m. - Lunch
2:00 - Back to work

3:15 - Walk

4:30 - Clock-out
5:00 - Arrive at night school, finish up homework
6:00 - Class starts

10:00 - Class ends, depart for home
10:30 - Shower, get ready for bed
11:15 - Sleep

4:19 a.m. Tuesday - Wake up

Norman is Wierd...

2008-10-18T11:07:00.000-05:00

Let's do this today, Jayhawks!

Lil' O'Saturday Night

2008-10-16T19:00:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I do not have cable television, no Dish, no DirectTV, nothing but network channels. NBC, CBS, ABC, PBS, Fox, Ion (which I caught Risky Business a couple weeks ago). Therefore, pickin's are slim around Gav's household sometimes. But then there is Saturday night...

Now for a controversial statement: I think Saturday Night Live is just as good now as it was in the 90s, the 80s, and yes, even the 70s. When taking a look at the entire season as a whole, week-over-week, there were just as many 'Stinker's' (skits) as there are in the new millenium. You must remember, that comedy is cyclical. Conan O'Brien is not Jay Leno, who is not David Letterman, who is not Johnny Carson.

That being said, on Saturday nights I enjoy watching the first hour of SNL, but at 11:30* I change the channel to one of my favorite television shows: Talkshow with Spike Feresten.

I introduced Spike to my brother-in-law this weekend (after knocking down a bottle of Evan Williams), where Spike came through strong with this clip:

The show is great. Spike is a former writer for David Letterman and also wrote for 'Seinfeld'. If anybody who reads this blog is at home on a Saturday night, try and stick out the first hour of SNL and switch the channel to your local Fox affiliate to catch Talkshow on Saturday nights.

*the show may be on at 12/11c in your area

...to make sure...

2008-10-14T20:48:00.000-05:00

I know, it's been a week since my last post. Family was in town, a paper on Sarbanes-Oxley, Hard Rock Concert, Economy Crashed-then Exploded, KU Football Game.

When I was younger, boy scouts was a big part of my life. However, my troop never partook in this program.

12-Year-Old Boy Scouts Volunteer To Give Women Breast Exams

Inebriaby-sitter

2008-10-07T15:58:00.000-05:00

Approximately 4 years ago, I was sitting at my computer after a long night of drinking. It was in the loft of Dn’s house. Matt L. was in Lawrence for the weekend and had retired on the couch in the living room below.

“What are you doing,” he yelled up to me.

“Writing an e-mail,” I said.

“To who?”

“No one.”

“Do you really think that is a good idea at 3:00 in the morning?” he asked.

“Probably not…”

In the future, an instance like this will be less likely for many, many men and women who have lost love. Thank you, Google

If a Dog Can Sell Tacos...

2008-10-05T21:50:00.000-05:00

$29 Million
$10.00 per ticket
=
2.9 Million People Deserve a Punch in the Face

Start Your Slippers

2008-10-02T15:00:00.000-05:00

Go ahead and place this one in Jay Leno's bottomless-cup of "America is so fat..." jokes.

ABC is promoting National Stay At Home Week to coincide with the network conglomerate's new fall schedule.

So guys, grab your sweatpants and gals, slip on those moo-moos, because you're about to pack on an additional 10 lbs. Nothing says Autumn like sitting in your house as the temperature cools wishing a good-looking young professional would enter your life to warm your heart and your bed. But until that happens you still have Greys... Which, coincidently, is advertising suitable attire for the holiday (aka. National Cold and Lonely Week): Medical Scrubs.

If only there were a National Party Your Face Off week. That's something I would get behind. ...that, and a Free Money Day.

Ginger Snap!

2008-10-01T14:00:00.000-05:00

Hey! Gingers!!

No more of the long, feathered hairdos.

Not 'A Regular Joe'

2008-09-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

My friend Joe has a Blog. It's insightful & funny.

However, it doesn't have the correct formatting for me to list him as one of my "Blog Friends". I can only hope he remains a Human Friend.

Droppin Names Like It's Hot

2008-09-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

List of persons Senator McCain uttered during the first Presidential debate:

- Ted Kennedy
- Dwight D. Eisenhower*
- Tom Coburn
- Bill Clinton
- David Petraeus#
- Lindsey Graham*
- Admiral Michael Mullen*

Wow! Are you impressed yet?

- Osama bin Laden
- George Shultz
- President Asif Ali Kardari (whose actual last name is Zardari)
- Alexander the (fucking) Great
- Pervez Musharraf
- Ronald Reagan#
- Matthew Stanley (American soldier K.I.A.)
- Senator Jon Kyl
- Mahmoud Ahmadinenene [mispronunciation], Ahmadineja… [one more time], Ahmadinejad* [bingo]

...Ummm

- Raul Castro
- Hugo Chávez
- Leonid Brezhnev
- Yuri Andropov
- Konstantin Chernenko
- Mikhail Gorbachev
- Richard Nixon
- Henry Kissinger*
- Ambassador Ryan Crocker
- Madeleine Albright

It's still 2008, right?

- My Friends* (referring to everybody who was still listening to him)
- Vladimir Putin*
- The K.G.B.?
- Misha Saakashvili
- Joe Lieberman

*multiple mentions
#painstaking number of mentions

A who’s-who list still does not qualify him to be president of the United States of America.

TUESDAY, TUESDAY, TUESDAY!!!!!

2008-09-27T12:26:00.000-05:00

Live from the Propaganda Platform

The Main Event:
Axis of Evil vs. League of Democracy

*also on the ticket, Main Street vs. Wall Street

The Shit is Bananas. B-A-N-A-N-A-S

2008-07-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

I'm going to tell you something that will most likely, not be very pleasing news to your future fruit-pizza recipe.

The black sigatoka fungus will eventually curtail all banana production in the world.

Here's the problem: since 1950, when the Panama fungus exterminated the most popular type at the time, known as the Gros Michel banana, there has been only one variety of banana traded/sold in the world today, known as the Cavendish. In 2003, New Scientist reported that the world-wide Cavendish crop (the genetic roots of which lie in India) was threatened by multiple pandemics, notably the Black Sigatoka fungus. As of right now, there are fungucides used to combat the fungus, but as the bananas evolve the (black sigatoka) pathogens are becoming resistant to these chemicals. Personally, this news upsets me very much. I like bananas, and eat them fairly regularly when in season.

However, there is hope. Initially, efforts were fruitless (pun-intended) since modern bananas do not produce seeds, rather reproduce using cuttings from the banana plant. Fortunately, some Brazilian varieties are being genetically engineered with fungus resistant genes. According to Truth about Trade the tests appear promising.

I hope so. Honestly, what would life be like without bananas? No banana-splits. No banana... chunks in Jello? No banana... chunks in cereal?

Uh-Oh...

It appears that the world could go on without bananas. As long as banana nut bread and Creme de Banana Liqueur still existed. I think we would get along.