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Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Monday, December 19, 2005
Music: Iron & Wine
So I recently purchased the soundtrack to "Garden State" which featured some incredible music. It's mostly soft, very folk, but just amazing. Coincidently, I saw the movie, "In Good Company" with Dennis Quaid, Scarlet Johannsen, and Topher Grace. Excellent movie...great to watch on a snowy day, or as a date film, or as a nice "pick me up" film. Great underlying themes, etc...actually kind of surprising that it's so darn good.
A commonality between the Garden State soundtrack and In Good Company soundtrack is an artist named Sam Beam, from his group called Iron & Wine. Very soft, folk-like, but amazingly deep and thoughtful.
One theme of one of his songs, "Such Great Heights", is how everything looks perfect from so far away. Isn't this true? Ever seen a low quality picture, thumbnail size, that was just amazing...but when you blew it up to become your desktop wallpaper, it was full of imperfections? How about other folks lives? From a distance, they seem so perfect and complete. But upon closer inspection, they contain blemishes, stains, and scars you'd never have guessed from glancing.
Sometimes we are lucky...our closest friends, family, and significant others want that closer look. They want to see both the valleys and the hills of our life. It is there that they'll see the refreshing springs, the snow covered peaks that glisten, and the fields grass that sway in the storm.
Be prepared to catch your breath when taking that closer look. The beauty of great detail is often overwhelming at first.
A commonality between the Garden State soundtrack and In Good Company soundtrack is an artist named Sam Beam, from his group called Iron & Wine. Very soft, folk-like, but amazingly deep and thoughtful.
One theme of one of his songs, "Such Great Heights", is how everything looks perfect from so far away. Isn't this true? Ever seen a low quality picture, thumbnail size, that was just amazing...but when you blew it up to become your desktop wallpaper, it was full of imperfections? How about other folks lives? From a distance, they seem so perfect and complete. But upon closer inspection, they contain blemishes, stains, and scars you'd never have guessed from glancing.
Sometimes we are lucky...our closest friends, family, and significant others want that closer look. They want to see both the valleys and the hills of our life. It is there that they'll see the refreshing springs, the snow covered peaks that glisten, and the fields grass that sway in the storm.
Be prepared to catch your breath when taking that closer look. The beauty of great detail is often overwhelming at first.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Too much in my head...
My mind sure does seem to race at times...I seriously thought all the trains of thought that come through the station would be slowing down.
Work has been very interesting. There are shuffles of personnel going on, inside scoops I didn't know about previously regarding my new boss, and a really good friend at work who may be moving to California :(
Home has been going a hundred miles an hour as well. Scott and I hosted Thanksgiving this year. A total of 20 were in the house...and 6 dogs (2 were puppies)! There was my mom, sister, her partner, 3 of their kids (my neices), one neices fiance, another neices boyfriend, my dad, his wife, my step brother and sister (who'd I'd never met before!), my brother and his wife, their three girls, and a friend of mine from high school, Dr. Dave....then scott and me. Wow...that was a lot of folks!
No biggie...it's a long weekend to recover...but Dec 3rd, the Saturday after that, was our latest wine tasting party. Great fun...I'll have to type the list up and post it here...fun, fun, fun.
Work has been very interesting. There are shuffles of personnel going on, inside scoops I didn't know about previously regarding my new boss, and a really good friend at work who may be moving to California :(
Home has been going a hundred miles an hour as well. Scott and I hosted Thanksgiving this year. A total of 20 were in the house...and 6 dogs (2 were puppies)! There was my mom, sister, her partner, 3 of their kids (my neices), one neices fiance, another neices boyfriend, my dad, his wife, my step brother and sister (who'd I'd never met before!), my brother and his wife, their three girls, and a friend of mine from high school, Dr. Dave....then scott and me. Wow...that was a lot of folks!
No biggie...it's a long weekend to recover...but Dec 3rd, the Saturday after that, was our latest wine tasting party. Great fun...I'll have to type the list up and post it here...fun, fun, fun.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
My first SONY "music" CD
So I received my first Sony "music" CD that I can't play on my computer...which sucks.
So, part of the settlement is they have to be willing to exchange that with a non-crappy-software CD AND give you the MP3 files (if you so desire).
http://cp.sonybmg.com/xcp
I thought I was getting a really neat CD with Cyndi Laupers new "The Body Acoustic"
So, part of the settlement is they have to be willing to exchange that with a non-crappy-software CD AND give you the MP3 files (if you so desire).
http://cp.sonybmg.com/xcp
I thought I was getting a really neat CD with Cyndi Laupers new "The Body Acoustic"
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Defining BS
Yep...BS = Bullshit. Interesting article:
http://www.runeguild.com/Forum/thread.php?threadid=5832&sid=
http://www.runeguild.com/Forum/thread.php?threadid=5832&sid=
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Donuts...
Picked up a friend today from Dunkin' Donuts...he was turning his car in to be detailed...anyhow, they are a really good donut, but nothing like the Dunkin Donuts I had in Japan. I love a few Krispy Kremes...but I can take it or leave it. I also like the apple fritters at Safeway (as my waist is testifying).
I really need to starting eating a bit more on the healthy side. I found a place near work that has an amazing lunch! You can get Quiche (? on spelling) and a huge baby green salad for $4.95...or a 1/2 sandwich and salad for $5.45, or a full sandwich and salad for $6.45. Incredibly healthy, tastes amazing, and I love the service there. :)
I really need to starting eating a bit more on the healthy side. I found a place near work that has an amazing lunch! You can get Quiche (? on spelling) and a huge baby green salad for $4.95...or a 1/2 sandwich and salad for $5.45, or a full sandwich and salad for $6.45. Incredibly healthy, tastes amazing, and I love the service there. :)
Monday, November 07, 2005
The NFL and T.O.
Even though I'm not a fan of T.O. (Terrell Owens), I'm glad he was put on T.O. (Timeout) for the rest of the season. It's not as if he's had to work an hour of mandatory O.T. (Over Time) in his self-centered life...maybe this will be a wakeup call for him.
Seriously...my only concern for him was all the Fantasy Football fans that had him picked for the season. T.O. was living the fantasy life...welcome to reality big guy!
Here's a great article on T.O. simply not being worth all the trouble: http://nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/9025428
And a sweet quote: Once again we have learned the truth. The truth is this: There is no "I" in T.O. or in team. But there are three in narcissistic.
Seriously...my only concern for him was all the Fantasy Football fans that had him picked for the season. T.O. was living the fantasy life...welcome to reality big guy!
Here's a great article on T.O. simply not being worth all the trouble: http://nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/9025428
And a sweet quote: Once again we have learned the truth. The truth is this: There is no "I" in T.O. or in team. But there are three in narcissistic.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Ruthann!
For Ruthann...alternating fast and slow til cooldown.
Ruthann likes to run...a lot! So this should help her alternate her insane pace with her relaxed one!
Ruthann likes to run...a lot! So this should help her alternate her insane pace with her relaxed one!
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Our Oct. 22nd wine tasting...
Thanks to Jack and Lynn for hosting! They provided an incredible green chili, red chili, and amazing views of the mountains from their beautiful Monument home!
Whites:
Kings Estate - Pinot Gris (Oregon, 2003, $14). Goodwith Fruit and Cheese.
Vally of the Moon - Pinot Blanc (Sonoma 2002,$15-$20). Shrimp Louis
Johanssisberg Riesling (Beringer, 2004, $12). Fruit,cheese, dessert.
J. Lohr - Chardonnay (Arroyo Seco, 2003, $18). Apples& Fontina.
Reds:
Kings Estate - Pinor NOir (Oregon, 1999, $22).
7 Deadly Zins - Zinfandel Mix (Old vines, 2003, $17).Home Ranch - Zinfandel (Alexander Valley, 2000, $15).
Coppola - Merlot (Blue label, 2003, $19).Ironstone - Cabernet Franc (2001, $12)
Chateau Saverain - Cabernet Savignon (1998, $21).
Champagne (with ice cream):
Mumm Napa - Demi-sec (semi-dry, $20)
It was a really amazing party...we were all laughing and laughing! Oh...maybe that was the wine?
Whites:
Kings Estate - Pinot Gris (Oregon, 2003, $14). Goodwith Fruit and Cheese.
Vally of the Moon - Pinot Blanc (Sonoma 2002,$15-$20). Shrimp Louis
Johanssisberg Riesling (Beringer, 2004, $12). Fruit,cheese, dessert.
J. Lohr - Chardonnay (Arroyo Seco, 2003, $18). Apples& Fontina.
Reds:
Kings Estate - Pinor NOir (Oregon, 1999, $22).
7 Deadly Zins - Zinfandel Mix (Old vines, 2003, $17).Home Ranch - Zinfandel (Alexander Valley, 2000, $15).
Coppola - Merlot (Blue label, 2003, $19).Ironstone - Cabernet Franc (2001, $12)
Chateau Saverain - Cabernet Savignon (1998, $21).
Champagne (with ice cream):
Mumm Napa - Demi-sec (semi-dry, $20)
It was a really amazing party...we were all laughing and laughing! Oh...maybe that was the wine?
Friday, October 28, 2005
Being Positive
A friend of mine gets e-mails from a south pole blogging site...he forwarded this on to me:
It's been a wonder to maintain connnection to those capable of maintaining a positive outlook, when there's nothing to divert them from themselves.
John Bradshaw once said, "You cannot blame an orange for giving you orange juice when you squeeze it, because that's what's inside." The same goes for people. Winter squeezes people, and sometimes shit comes out - well, because that's what's inside.
Hopefully you have learned what's inside, and can decide to accept that or change within yourself - because those are really the only permanent changes we can make. When you get down to it, that stuff inside is what you are made of and it shapes the way you operate in the world, the situations you create around you. It shapes your character. If you live in a world that angers/frustrates you, well, you can't be surprised that a lot of people won't want to get really close to that - only those willing to commiserate.
Continue to find humor in the world without avoiding reality (and without being taken advantage of), and I would say that you go a long way to creating the world you want to live in - rather than have the world mold you into something you don't want to be. This is your inner world, the world you are immersed in every day.
Enjoy, happy trails, and keep in touch (especially with pictures when you are doing things extraordinary).
Weather for South Pole Station
The date is 10-27-2005 at 08:06 AM
Temperature
-49.8 C -57.6 F
Windchill
-70.1 C -94.2 F
Wind
13.9 kts Grid 57
Barometer
683.5 mb (10496 ft)
It's been a wonder to maintain connnection to those capable of maintaining a positive outlook, when there's nothing to divert them from themselves.
John Bradshaw once said, "You cannot blame an orange for giving you orange juice when you squeeze it, because that's what's inside." The same goes for people. Winter squeezes people, and sometimes shit comes out - well, because that's what's inside.
Hopefully you have learned what's inside, and can decide to accept that or change within yourself - because those are really the only permanent changes we can make. When you get down to it, that stuff inside is what you are made of and it shapes the way you operate in the world, the situations you create around you. It shapes your character. If you live in a world that angers/frustrates you, well, you can't be surprised that a lot of people won't want to get really close to that - only those willing to commiserate.
Continue to find humor in the world without avoiding reality (and without being taken advantage of), and I would say that you go a long way to creating the world you want to live in - rather than have the world mold you into something you don't want to be. This is your inner world, the world you are immersed in every day.
Enjoy, happy trails, and keep in touch (especially with pictures when you are doing things extraordinary).
Weather for South Pole Station
The date is 10-27-2005 at 08:06 AM
Temperature
-49.8 C -57.6 F
Windchill
-70.1 C -94.2 F
Wind
13.9 kts Grid 57
Barometer
683.5 mb (10496 ft)
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
CondoView
I went up to Scott's parents condo on Sunday to enjoy lunch with them. The view was simply amazing.
Weird stuff happening...
...kind of a weird time in my life. I'm 36, I've got a great paying job...but obviously one I can't retire from (it's a short-term contract w/the govt), a great life partner (amazing is probably more appropriate...but I could slew a score of adverbs and adjectives and never truely describe how incredible Scott is to me), and I live near my family. But I feel like I'm missing something. Not missing something physical or emotional, but missing something like what my role in the world is type of thing.
At the same time, I feel I've stretched myself thin. There seems to be too many that need help, support, encouragement, etc. and I'm struggling with keeping my head above water. Perhaps my life seems like a Jimmy Stewart scene where I simply don't realize that I'm making an impact. Surprisingly, I don't feel frustrated, wound-up, angry, or even helpless. I do feel focused, driven, and useful.
It all comes back to seeing the whole puzzle...even though I'm only working on the 300 pieces that consist of the blue sky...where every piece is near identical in color, hue, and saturation, but it only fits in one specific place in the grand scheme of things. Patience, persistence and tenacity are required...but it'd be so much easier if I could do the edges and corner pieces. :)
At the same time, I feel I've stretched myself thin. There seems to be too many that need help, support, encouragement, etc. and I'm struggling with keeping my head above water. Perhaps my life seems like a Jimmy Stewart scene where I simply don't realize that I'm making an impact. Surprisingly, I don't feel frustrated, wound-up, angry, or even helpless. I do feel focused, driven, and useful.
It all comes back to seeing the whole puzzle...even though I'm only working on the 300 pieces that consist of the blue sky...where every piece is near identical in color, hue, and saturation, but it only fits in one specific place in the grand scheme of things. Patience, persistence and tenacity are required...but it'd be so much easier if I could do the edges and corner pieces. :)
Friday, October 21, 2005
Numbers...what a dream...
So, as a mathematics geek, I'm simply amazed by basic math formulas that folks utilize to solve problems. Of course, they don't see them as math, but it is those old geeky algebraic formulas from highschool. :) The series, Numbers, has brought a lot to light recently on how mathematical formulas can be utilized in solving crimes. Granted...it's hollywood...and 33% of all murders go unsolved in this country every year...but still.
So last night, I had this dream that I was in some "think-tank" room going over mathematical probability formulas for a certain scenario. The professor kept formulating and reformulating but wasn't grasping the "relate it to real life" concept that so many cognative-elites fail to do. He kept coming up with a "yellow horse" as the answer over and over and over. But of course..."yellow" horses don't exist. I explained that "yellow" is what someone would likely call a "palamino" if they didn't know the word, "Palamino". Another thinker kept saying his derived formula was coming up with a "leopard" horse...I had to explain that that was likely a "Appaloosa"...
All the mathematics in the world moved those folks into answers that they couldn't relate to real life...for just a simple lack of experience.
Books are part of learning...an integral part...life experience is the other part.
So last night, I had this dream that I was in some "think-tank" room going over mathematical probability formulas for a certain scenario. The professor kept formulating and reformulating but wasn't grasping the "relate it to real life" concept that so many cognative-elites fail to do. He kept coming up with a "yellow horse" as the answer over and over and over. But of course..."yellow" horses don't exist. I explained that "yellow" is what someone would likely call a "palamino" if they didn't know the word, "Palamino". Another thinker kept saying his derived formula was coming up with a "leopard" horse...I had to explain that that was likely a "Appaloosa"...
All the mathematics in the world moved those folks into answers that they couldn't relate to real life...for just a simple lack of experience.
Books are part of learning...an integral part...life experience is the other part.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Sleep...where art thou?!?!?!
Does anyone else seem to be going through a weird lack of sleep cycle? I've been trying to go to bed at 9:00...I seem to awaken at 1:30...fall back asleep and wake up between 4:00 and 4:30 and then get outta bed. :( I really want to sleep a full eight hours and be less cranky. :)
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Wine and beer and cognac...oh my!
Wine update: King's Estate Pinot Grigio is still my favorite white wine. Sure, it's $14 a bottle, but it is so darn good! Seven Deadly Zins is still my favorite red wine...but I'm looking forward to other reds soon at a wine tasting (this Saturday, Oct. 22).
Beer: So I finally had a Guiness and it's pretty darn good...for a beer. I was reminded of chocolate for some reason when I tasted it...dark chocolate that is. Beer and me just don't seem to mix. About 1/2 way down, I didn't like the flavor any longer.
Cognac: A friend bought me a bottle of vanilla cognac. Wow, that stuff is amazing. It's a definate after dinner, after dessert sipping drink. But it is a very, very nice flavor and definately puts me in the mode of bedtime.
Beer: So I finally had a Guiness and it's pretty darn good...for a beer. I was reminded of chocolate for some reason when I tasted it...dark chocolate that is. Beer and me just don't seem to mix. About 1/2 way down, I didn't like the flavor any longer.
Cognac: A friend bought me a bottle of vanilla cognac. Wow, that stuff is amazing. It's a definate after dinner, after dessert sipping drink. But it is a very, very nice flavor and definately puts me in the mode of bedtime.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
GoG, 17-Oct-05
During a walk in Garden of the Gods with my folks from work. That park is just 10 minutes west of I-25...and truely stunning. What a hidden gem in Colorado Springs.
Sunday, October 16, 2005
OreoCows
There really are Oreo Cows here in Colorado. This was last summer...but I still look at it from time to time and giggle.
AngelsGuardingEggs
Amazing that these angel fish laid eggs in this tank. The tank is just a 55 gallon...with LOTS of other fish! Beautiful to see this though. :)
Friday, October 14, 2005
Medical Mary Jane
So it hits Yahoo news that Melissa Etheridge used medical marijuana while she was undergoing Chemotherapy. Big flippin' woop. Why is this news in the media still? The only thing that should be news is that the state of Calif. said it's ok, and the federal govt. said it's not. But that's not news at all.
Look...if someone is dying of cancer and undergoing treatment, I say give em all the pot they want. If they have no sickness, fine -- keep they hipocrytical attitude that alcohol and tobacco are "legal", but marijuana is not. We get it. Now, move on and let's see if we can evolve as a culture.
Thanks!
Look...if someone is dying of cancer and undergoing treatment, I say give em all the pot they want. If they have no sickness, fine -- keep they hipocrytical attitude that alcohol and tobacco are "legal", but marijuana is not. We get it. Now, move on and let's see if we can evolve as a culture.
Thanks!
Justice for all?
You know, it's kind of weird. When the radical right and republicans in general were in the minority, they constantly reminded folks that the constitution protects even the minority; the majority can't simply dismiss and trod on the rights of the minority. Now that they are the majority (by a whopping 1%!), they've completely forgotten this mantra.
Hey folks, you can't sacrifice minorities in hopes of maintaining the majority. When will the govt. wake up and smell the coffee? The majority, at least the intelligent ones, are supposed to remember that they need to look out for the minority, the weak, the helpless. Has the radical right have no concept of empathy? How about forgiveness? Have they ever seen or heard anything at all about compassion? I'm simply not seeing it.
Sure, go ahead and say that gays are the reason that 9/11 happened, that the Tsunami hit the Far East because Swedes were on vacation there and it was God's way of punishing a country for it's stance on gay rights, or, pray as Pat Robertson did for Renquist to die and for the U.S. to assasinate the leader of a country. But some folks are seeing right through the hypocricy. Why do married folks get special rights? They aren't equal rights...because non-straight couples and single folks don't get to enjoy any of those benefits. That means they are special. The fact that only straight couples enjoy them also means they are discrimitory. That's just the rules...I didn't make them. Go ahead and call yourself pro-family...I'm fairly certain that God and others see right through that deception and give it it's proper name: hatred.
Hey folks, you can't sacrifice minorities in hopes of maintaining the majority. When will the govt. wake up and smell the coffee? The majority, at least the intelligent ones, are supposed to remember that they need to look out for the minority, the weak, the helpless. Has the radical right have no concept of empathy? How about forgiveness? Have they ever seen or heard anything at all about compassion? I'm simply not seeing it.
Sure, go ahead and say that gays are the reason that 9/11 happened, that the Tsunami hit the Far East because Swedes were on vacation there and it was God's way of punishing a country for it's stance on gay rights, or, pray as Pat Robertson did for Renquist to die and for the U.S. to assasinate the leader of a country. But some folks are seeing right through the hypocricy. Why do married folks get special rights? They aren't equal rights...because non-straight couples and single folks don't get to enjoy any of those benefits. That means they are special. The fact that only straight couples enjoy them also means they are discrimitory. That's just the rules...I didn't make them. Go ahead and call yourself pro-family...I'm fairly certain that God and others see right through that deception and give it it's proper name: hatred.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Jim_n_Vigor
Here I am on my mare...the week before the snowstorm.
Ok, Lisa...you were right...this is cool! :D
Ok, Lisa...you were right...this is cool! :D
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Darn it! I wasn't ready!
Saturday was a gorgeous 70 degrees here in Colo Springs...I'm totally digging the fall and everything it brings. Yellow leaves, beautiful sunsets, chilly nights where snuggling is a pleasure as it doesn't get too warm, etc.
But Sunday just had to ruin the mood! Snow...yes, snow...20 inches of it out where I live.
Well, life isn't all bad...I still got to snuggle. ;)
But Sunday just had to ruin the mood! Snow...yes, snow...20 inches of it out where I live.
Well, life isn't all bad...I still got to snuggle. ;)
Friday, October 07, 2005
Spammers are hitting my blog...
... sorry, I had to take away the comments section of the post below. I'll do some research on how to prevent spammers or bots from tagging my site and then I'll allow comments once again. :)
Have a great weekend!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Communication is the key...
...haven't we all heard that about 32.8 million times? For relationships, especially life partner ones, it really is so very true. For me, things tend to build up. You know...those things that in and of themselves are so inconsequential, that I don't mention them. I don't want to be a nagging partner that complains about every little thing. But taken collectively, they amount to some serious, pent up (is that really the correct phrase and spelling?) frustration.
Nothing bothers me more than realizing I screwed up by not communicating before things have escalated to the point of blowing up. Additionally, once I'm angry, so much time has to pass before I can actually calm my emotions. What's amazing is that I've seen a few married couples go through this...and often times, the blowing up point and the point of no return intersect here.
God (small g), why are relationships so f'in fragile? Perhaps this incredibly strong and wide foundation I thought I had was actually very small square footage with a very tall building on top of it? How could I not feel the wind swaying this building so easily?
All in all, relationships take work, understanding, and compromise. Now if I can just get my emotional side to grasp that. :)
Nothing bothers me more than realizing I screwed up by not communicating before things have escalated to the point of blowing up. Additionally, once I'm angry, so much time has to pass before I can actually calm my emotions. What's amazing is that I've seen a few married couples go through this...and often times, the blowing up point and the point of no return intersect here.
God (small g), why are relationships so f'in fragile? Perhaps this incredibly strong and wide foundation I thought I had was actually very small square footage with a very tall building on top of it? How could I not feel the wind swaying this building so easily?
All in all, relationships take work, understanding, and compromise. Now if I can just get my emotional side to grasp that. :)
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
7-up Plus!
So 7-up is really impressing me lately. Sure, the soda isn't as good as 100% sugar stuff, but it aint bad and it's not near as bad for you as regular soda or aspertame.
The three flavors of 7-up plus (it has 15% of your recommended calcium in it!) are Berry, Cherry, and Tropical Fruit (pineapple mango I believe). They are yummy...but Berry just doesn't do it for me. I totally dig the pineapple mixed one. :)
The three flavors of 7-up plus (it has 15% of your recommended calcium in it!) are Berry, Cherry, and Tropical Fruit (pineapple mango I believe). They are yummy...but Berry just doesn't do it for me. I totally dig the pineapple mixed one. :)
The Patriot Act...
So, after reading numerous articles on the Patriot Act (signed in to law under George W.), I continue to ask myself what's so Patriotic about it? As one law professor stated, calling the unpatriotic bill the "Patriot Act" was marketing genius.
It reminds me a bit of the ICBM missiles that are called "Peacekeepers". Nothing about that missile is peaceful...not a darn thing. It's built to kill thousands or millions of people...not bring peace. Again, marketing genius.
Perhaps the key to the "Patriot Act" is that it's really an act. It's not genuinely patriotic, it simply is playing a part that is extremely distant from it's true character.
It reminds me a bit of the ICBM missiles that are called "Peacekeepers". Nothing about that missile is peaceful...not a darn thing. It's built to kill thousands or millions of people...not bring peace. Again, marketing genius.
Perhaps the key to the "Patriot Act" is that it's really an act. It's not genuinely patriotic, it simply is playing a part that is extremely distant from it's true character.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Maybe it's time...
...as I peel my contacts off my eyeballs, I realize that maybe I really should consider surgery on my eyes. I can only stand my toric contact lenses for about six hours before I'm ready for glasses again. But glasses seem to congest me...I know that sounds weird. It'd be nice to be able to try on a pair of sunglasses in the store and clearly see what they look like on me. Well, you still have to use your imagination and pretend not to see the huge plastic dohicky with the price on it...but none the less, I'd really like that.
On Tuesday, I got my haircut...last short cut of the year. I'll likely let it grow out a little longer during the colder months. I'd really dig a long hair style...but it's just never been me. :(
Sunday is Extreme Home Makeover...and it features a house out in Peyton, Colorado. About 20-30 people are coming over for that. I think I can find any excuse to have a social gathering...I'm way too sanguine.
Happy Friday all...have a good weekend!
On Tuesday, I got my haircut...last short cut of the year. I'll likely let it grow out a little longer during the colder months. I'd really dig a long hair style...but it's just never been me. :(
Sunday is Extreme Home Makeover...and it features a house out in Peyton, Colorado. About 20-30 people are coming over for that. I think I can find any excuse to have a social gathering...I'm way too sanguine.
Happy Friday all...have a good weekend!
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Fruit
I go through strange phases of eating extremely healthy, and then forgetting completely about what is going in my body. Today was a healthy day. I had a yogurt and then a pear for breakfast. I've never really considered myself a huge pear fan, but they are truely growing on me. Maybe I've been drinking so much wine that I'm tasting fruit in a different way now? Some white wines definately have a pear-type taste to them.
After lunch I had an apple. The "gala" apple I had was particularly attuned to my preferences. Crunchy, just a touch of sourness, and extremely juicy.
Does life get any better than having good food? ;)
After lunch I had an apple. The "gala" apple I had was particularly attuned to my preferences. Crunchy, just a touch of sourness, and extremely juicy.
Does life get any better than having good food? ;)
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Comfort in distance...or is it?
I've often wondered what is it that causes us do break down the distance between ourselves and others...a distance that is often very comfortable. The distance is expected, at least in our society (the U.S.), however, I didn't grow up in this society, so I often times trespass on this gap between myself and those that cross my path.
I'm very much into eye contact. I've no idea why. I recall a friend in college...well, he wasn't a friend the first time I met him, but he became one soon after. I recall his eyes meeting mine and seeing the most sadness and loneliness I'd ever seen. In a school of over 50,000 students...how could someone be lonely? Oh yes...the established distance thing.
Anyhow, not being shy and often times speaking my mind, I marched right up to him, introduced myself, and asked if he wanted to grab some lunch. Lunch, at this point in my life, usually consisted of a two dollar calzone at one of the many food stands that surrounded the campus.
I remember my church being the closest people in my life at that time. Even there, I still kept a very healthy distance between the real me, and what I thought others could handle seeing...that was cool with me, and very comfortable. Many said that they shared things with me that they had never shared with anyone except God. "Bizarre," I thought to myself, "they don't like sharing what they don't like about themselves with someone who already knows it's there...". I never did understand the masks that folks put on before themselves and their beliefs...honesty between themselves and God would seem to be a good foundation, aye?
More recently, a coworker opened up to me. He is a really great person, and has no idea of that. He so fears rejection, that he's not letting others see the real him. But I see the real him, and it's not near the downer that he expected. I forgot to mention that I trespassed on his comfortable buffer zone, but I'm sure you'd of figured that out by now.
Physcially, if we all have a 3 foot bubble zone, I've decided mine is about an inch. That could be from growing up in Japan. Intellectually (or even spiritually), I think our buffer zone is much larger. Mine is again, about an inch. This doesn't mean I share everything about myself with other folks...but when asked, I've no problem unmasking what I have to say. I've definately decided that a tactful, honest approach is so much better than a sugar-coated, sythetic answer that most give.
Do I want to be accepted, etc.? Of course I do. But I want to be accepted for who I am and for whom I'm trying to become, not someone that I'm not nor any desire of ever becoming.
I'm very much into eye contact. I've no idea why. I recall a friend in college...well, he wasn't a friend the first time I met him, but he became one soon after. I recall his eyes meeting mine and seeing the most sadness and loneliness I'd ever seen. In a school of over 50,000 students...how could someone be lonely? Oh yes...the established distance thing.
Anyhow, not being shy and often times speaking my mind, I marched right up to him, introduced myself, and asked if he wanted to grab some lunch. Lunch, at this point in my life, usually consisted of a two dollar calzone at one of the many food stands that surrounded the campus.
I remember my church being the closest people in my life at that time. Even there, I still kept a very healthy distance between the real me, and what I thought others could handle seeing...that was cool with me, and very comfortable. Many said that they shared things with me that they had never shared with anyone except God. "Bizarre," I thought to myself, "they don't like sharing what they don't like about themselves with someone who already knows it's there...". I never did understand the masks that folks put on before themselves and their beliefs...honesty between themselves and God would seem to be a good foundation, aye?
More recently, a coworker opened up to me. He is a really great person, and has no idea of that. He so fears rejection, that he's not letting others see the real him. But I see the real him, and it's not near the downer that he expected. I forgot to mention that I trespassed on his comfortable buffer zone, but I'm sure you'd of figured that out by now.
Physcially, if we all have a 3 foot bubble zone, I've decided mine is about an inch. That could be from growing up in Japan. Intellectually (or even spiritually), I think our buffer zone is much larger. Mine is again, about an inch. This doesn't mean I share everything about myself with other folks...but when asked, I've no problem unmasking what I have to say. I've definately decided that a tactful, honest approach is so much better than a sugar-coated, sythetic answer that most give.
Do I want to be accepted, etc.? Of course I do. But I want to be accepted for who I am and for whom I'm trying to become, not someone that I'm not nor any desire of ever becoming.
Monday, September 26, 2005
INXS
I admit it...I was completely addicted to a reality TV show, namely, Rockstar: INXS. It involved the 80's band seeking out a new lead singer to front their band. The show ran 10 weeks, with each week eliminating one (one week it was two!) of the 15 singers who were trying out.
Unlike American Idol, many of these folks were trained and often performing either in their own bands, in musical plays, etc. Most were simply amazing to listen to and watch. The band did an incredible job challenging each singer. Often times, you'd think a song was perfect for a singer, only to see that it had a few notes or style that was a challenge for them.
In the end, it came down to Marty Casey, a great grunge singer, Mig Aeysa, Australian singer who performs Queens: We Will Rock You musical, and J.D. Fortune, the dangerous bad boy.
J.D. won it all. He matured during the show, had some great musical arrangements, and is a very talented song writer. As much as I wanted Marty or Mig to win it, once J.D. started singing, "What you need", I knew he was the best fit for the band.
Cheers to INXS for an entertaining 10 week show.
Unlike American Idol, many of these folks were trained and often performing either in their own bands, in musical plays, etc. Most were simply amazing to listen to and watch. The band did an incredible job challenging each singer. Often times, you'd think a song was perfect for a singer, only to see that it had a few notes or style that was a challenge for them.
In the end, it came down to Marty Casey, a great grunge singer, Mig Aeysa, Australian singer who performs Queens: We Will Rock You musical, and J.D. Fortune, the dangerous bad boy.
J.D. won it all. He matured during the show, had some great musical arrangements, and is a very talented song writer. As much as I wanted Marty or Mig to win it, once J.D. started singing, "What you need", I knew he was the best fit for the band.
Cheers to INXS for an entertaining 10 week show.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Dreams...
Have you ever had such vivid dreams that you awoke and couldn't rid yourself of that emotion you were experiencing in the dream? Sure...everyone has "scary" dreams where you awake in a sweat and panic...but this was a dream in which I was angry. I really dislike getting angry...but I sure was fuming in this dream. I woke up at 4:00 in the morning Tuesday from it...and couldn't get back to sleep. That sucked. :)
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
I love my tanks!
With my life steering away from online gaming (World of Warcraft is still fun, just not as "fun" as I thought it would be), I'm dedicating more time to gardening, my pond, and my five aquariums. Here's my 75 gallon tank...I love it. There are 21 fish in the tank, but of course, none of them were up for the camera shot! Where you'll find the pic ... it's the fourth post in that thread.
Anyhow, I've got the 30 gallon stocked and looking purty, the 55 gallon looking great (4 angel fish, some neon rainbows, and some tetras), the 75 gallon (see above), and the 125 gallon looking awesome (5 tinfoil barbs - 3 regular, 1 glass, 1 albino, 4 tiger barbs, 2 gold (female) rosey barbs, 2 clown loaches, 2 silver dollars, 2 bala "sharks", 2 giant danios, and 1 rainbow shark).
It's actually enjoyable just to sit in the living room where my 125 gallon tank is, pluck at the guitar, and watch the fish.
My fifth tank is just a small 5 gallon for guppies...they are funny.
Anyhow, I've got the 30 gallon stocked and looking purty, the 55 gallon looking great (4 angel fish, some neon rainbows, and some tetras), the 75 gallon (see above), and the 125 gallon looking awesome (5 tinfoil barbs - 3 regular, 1 glass, 1 albino, 4 tiger barbs, 2 gold (female) rosey barbs, 2 clown loaches, 2 silver dollars, 2 bala "sharks", 2 giant danios, and 1 rainbow shark).
It's actually enjoyable just to sit in the living room where my 125 gallon tank is, pluck at the guitar, and watch the fish.
My fifth tank is just a small 5 gallon for guppies...they are funny.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Temperatures around us...
This week my office is suffering from insufficient air flow and temperature control. Today, the office is up to 84 degrees. Dockers and an oxford w/tie just don't seem to do well in that heat. :)
I'm always amazed at how narrow of a temperature range we are comfortable in based on the climates, mostly artificial ones, we are used to. When I lived in San Antonio, a shady 65=70 degree day was just plain chilly. In Colorado, that's really comfortable. I know a lot has to do with humidity, but still...it's pretty amazing how much my blood "thickened" once I lived a few years at 7,500 foot elevation. One day I even went down to feed the horses in jeans and a T-shirt. The air was brisk...but it wasn't until I saw the ice in the water bowls did I realize how cold it really was!
But anyhow...84 degrees in an office setting is just a good reason for frequent breaks to the break room...where's it's just 70 degrees.
I'm always amazed at how narrow of a temperature range we are comfortable in based on the climates, mostly artificial ones, we are used to. When I lived in San Antonio, a shady 65=70 degree day was just plain chilly. In Colorado, that's really comfortable. I know a lot has to do with humidity, but still...it's pretty amazing how much my blood "thickened" once I lived a few years at 7,500 foot elevation. One day I even went down to feed the horses in jeans and a T-shirt. The air was brisk...but it wasn't until I saw the ice in the water bowls did I realize how cold it really was!
But anyhow...84 degrees in an office setting is just a good reason for frequent breaks to the break room...where's it's just 70 degrees.
Monday, May 09, 2005
Maybe knowledge is evil?
So I've been listening to multiple sides of differing views regarding politics, morality, etc. It's pretty disturbing! :) Hearing Pat Robertson speak to Larry King about made me vomit. He claims liberals and Democrats are more destructive to the country than any terrorist attack, Nazi party, etc. that has ever existed. Did I ever mention that I was a fairly radical right Christian at one time until I became so nauseous at the hipocracy? But that's another story for another time.
And what's up with politicians answering a yes/no question with a 2 page verbal essay? It's yes, or no. If you need to explain why it's "yes", say "Yes! And this is why..." or "No, and this is why I answer that way..." I mean, is communicating that fricken difficult?
Anyhow...my 2 cents for the day!
And what's up with politicians answering a yes/no question with a 2 page verbal essay? It's yes, or no. If you need to explain why it's "yes", say "Yes! And this is why..." or "No, and this is why I answer that way..." I mean, is communicating that fricken difficult?
Anyhow...my 2 cents for the day!
Monday, March 14, 2005
My body aint what it used to be...
Last Saturday (March 12th), I had the pleasure of heading up (down in elevation, up if you look at a map and put North at the top) to Denver for a volleyball tournament. I participate in this tournament every year...and every year, it seems my body is telling me something with a louder and louder voice. I believe the message has always been the same...but it's definately easier to hear it now: "You're too old for this Jim!" Hehe...seriously though, I'm aching today (Monday). I've always hated taking Ibuprophen or other drugs to dull pain from athletic activity...but I definately waved those concerns today. I work on the second story of a government building that doesn't have an elevator...how the heck can the government get away with that?! But that's another post for another day and probably not worth the bandwidth to download what most folks already know anyhow. :P
By the way, Saturday was an amazing 70 degrees in Denver...snow moved in on Saturday night. It's a weird time of year in Colorado...as late as Wednesday, I can't really tell if I should make plans to go hike/ride in the mountains, or head up to ski. It could be 20, it could be 75...you just never know.
On a more somber note, a good friend of mine is heading to Seattle to work for Microsoft. I'm very excited for him, but pretty sad that I won't have him around. I definately wouldn't have ever pursued a career in computers or anything technology related if it wasn't for him. Of course, I also wouldn't have ever experience on-line gaming or X-box. :D I'm still holding off the urge to get TiVo.
By the way, Saturday was an amazing 70 degrees in Denver...snow moved in on Saturday night. It's a weird time of year in Colorado...as late as Wednesday, I can't really tell if I should make plans to go hike/ride in the mountains, or head up to ski. It could be 20, it could be 75...you just never know.
On a more somber note, a good friend of mine is heading to Seattle to work for Microsoft. I'm very excited for him, but pretty sad that I won't have him around. I definately wouldn't have ever pursued a career in computers or anything technology related if it wasn't for him. Of course, I also wouldn't have ever experience on-line gaming or X-box. :D I'm still holding off the urge to get TiVo.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Movies...
I saw a couple of good flicks over the weekend. I'm still getting caught up on "24", the TV series, so my movie watching is limited. :)
The Color Purple (1985) was a great flick. I really enjoyed it. One of Speilburgs early serious developments, but very well done. I was surprised how good Whoopie Goldberg and Oprah were in this movie.
Donnie Darko (2001) was a really different movie. I enjoyed it even more than I thought I would. With a cast and plot revolving around teens, this movie definately broke the stereotype and devled in psychology, brainwashing, and science. The movie left you feeling like that's how it was supposed to end...but not stereotypical everyone lived happily ever after. Highly recommended.
The Color Purple (1985) was a great flick. I really enjoyed it. One of Speilburgs early serious developments, but very well done. I was surprised how good Whoopie Goldberg and Oprah were in this movie.
Donnie Darko (2001) was a really different movie. I enjoyed it even more than I thought I would. With a cast and plot revolving around teens, this movie definately broke the stereotype and devled in psychology, brainwashing, and science. The movie left you feeling like that's how it was supposed to end...but not stereotypical everyone lived happily ever after. Highly recommended.
Friday, March 04, 2005
NPR (National Public Radio)
I rarely watch the news, read the paper (I live in Colorado Springs...the paper is extremely conservative and heavily influenced by the folks that think Sponge Bob Squarepants is gay), and definately don't have time to keep up on world events like I would like to. However, I do listen to the radio quite a bit and have been tuned to National Public Radio (NPR) for the past couple of months.
I'm really amazed how much I've learned. Lots of folks call the reporting liberal, but I really can't label it as that. Usually, they just inspire you to think a bit differently than what you might be used to (aka brainwashed to do! :) ). There are too many great stories to share, but I have learned a great deal about the volitile relationship between Syria and Lebbanon, some of the more interesting business practices of Walmart and their effect on the local economy, and the first amputee soldier to request remaining in the military and is be redeployed to Iraq.
It's really very amazing. I also listen to an EXTREMELY conservative (aka right wing) station at work. Well ok, I don't have a radio at work, but the gentleman two cubicals down does and he must be hard of hearing based on the volume level he's listening to a talk show. It's really amazing how often they quote NPR or take snippets from their stories, distort them, and then preach on the evils of american society based on the manipulated portions from NPR. If their audience actually listened to NPR, they'd never go back to the trash that the conservative stations are playing. When I hear folks call in to these stations, I've yet to hear one have a critical comment for the conservative station that the conservative station is willing to acknowledge.
Well...if our president and his cabinet can hand pick the audience for rallies, hire reporters to pose in press conferences, etc...I'm not too surprised the radical right does the same. It appears that "the truth shall set you free" has them frightened to the point that they are willing to sacrifice their integrity, their ideals, and most importantly, their faith to keep the wool pulled over their sheeps eyes.
Ok, now I'm both sad and angry. ;)
Have a good weekend!
I'm really amazed how much I've learned. Lots of folks call the reporting liberal, but I really can't label it as that. Usually, they just inspire you to think a bit differently than what you might be used to (aka brainwashed to do! :) ). There are too many great stories to share, but I have learned a great deal about the volitile relationship between Syria and Lebbanon, some of the more interesting business practices of Walmart and their effect on the local economy, and the first amputee soldier to request remaining in the military and is be redeployed to Iraq.
It's really very amazing. I also listen to an EXTREMELY conservative (aka right wing) station at work. Well ok, I don't have a radio at work, but the gentleman two cubicals down does and he must be hard of hearing based on the volume level he's listening to a talk show. It's really amazing how often they quote NPR or take snippets from their stories, distort them, and then preach on the evils of american society based on the manipulated portions from NPR. If their audience actually listened to NPR, they'd never go back to the trash that the conservative stations are playing. When I hear folks call in to these stations, I've yet to hear one have a critical comment for the conservative station that the conservative station is willing to acknowledge.
Well...if our president and his cabinet can hand pick the audience for rallies, hire reporters to pose in press conferences, etc...I'm not too surprised the radical right does the same. It appears that "the truth shall set you free" has them frightened to the point that they are willing to sacrifice their integrity, their ideals, and most importantly, their faith to keep the wool pulled over their sheeps eyes.
Ok, now I'm both sad and angry. ;)
Have a good weekend!
Friday, February 18, 2005
Acoustic Guitar...
...I am fascinated by acoustic guitar. I've various albums by names such as Michael Hedges, Phil Keagy, even noninstrumental type stuff like Melissa Etheridge, Edwin McCain and Keb-Mo. However, the Narada collection CDs I have really blow me away. One artist in particular, Billy McLaughlin is just amazing.
I'd highly recommend his music. He has a few free dowloads at his site if you wanna give it a listen.
I'd highly recommend his music. He has a few free dowloads at his site if you wanna give it a listen.
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Salads for lunch...
Today I had a salad, from Wendy's, as my lunch meal. It's a decent salad, consists of about 75% iceberg lettuce, a few leaves of green lettuce, grilled chicken, bacon, tomatoes and cheese. It's actually a very sound lunch. I did add the croutons and used about 1/2 of the salad dressing packet they provided.
As my friend Brad once said (http://dotnetguy.techieswithcats.com), "Americans don't like salad, they just like salad dressing." It's the salad dressing that kills the healthy lunch. One full packet of dressing has 40% of our recommended fat (26g), only 4% carbs (11g, 10 grams are sugar), 15% of our sodium (350mg), and 8% of the cholestorol intake (25mg).
I'm glad I used only 1/2 the dressing...at least I feel like I ate pretty healthy. :)
As my friend Brad once said (http://dotnetguy.techieswithcats.com), "Americans don't like salad, they just like salad dressing." It's the salad dressing that kills the healthy lunch. One full packet of dressing has 40% of our recommended fat (26g), only 4% carbs (11g, 10 grams are sugar), 15% of our sodium (350mg), and 8% of the cholestorol intake (25mg).
I'm glad I used only 1/2 the dressing...at least I feel like I ate pretty healthy. :)
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Bush's inaugural party...
So I hear that Bush is spending forty million dollars (yes, $40,000,000) for his inaugural address party...hmmm...didn't we initially dedicate less than that to the Tsunami victims? I also hear that Kid Rock will be performing...hmmm...the same Kid Rock that sang "Pimp of the Nation"? The same Kid Rock that mentions Barbara Bush in his lyrics?
Hold on...didn't the republicans and right basically excommunicate the Dixie Chicks...but Kid Rock is now blessed? Hmmm....I smell a rat.
Now, Bush also established the White House office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives in order to donate a billion dollars to religious organizations. Very interesting indeed.
Now, lets throw in the mess going on in Ohio...seems Bush gots some interesting team players...claiming to be Christian, but definately not living a Christ-like life.
Hold on...didn't the republicans and right basically excommunicate the Dixie Chicks...but Kid Rock is now blessed? Hmmm....I smell a rat.
Now, Bush also established the White House office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives in order to donate a billion dollars to religious organizations. Very interesting indeed.
Now, lets throw in the mess going on in Ohio...seems Bush gots some interesting team players...claiming to be Christian, but definately not living a Christ-like life.
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