The title of this blog is a word I strive to say more often. It is a word that I need to become more familiar with, a word that would save me from much angst and agitation. It would free me from many trials and tribulations. This one word would have made my entire Christmas break better and more relaxing. Unfortunately, I'm apparently not familiar with this word and it refuses to roll off my tongue with anywhere near the ease that it cascades from others' tongues with on a daily basis.
Why am I incapable of saying this word? I came close today, but failed. I nearly told my niece's boyfriend that I couldn't work in his absence from my dreaded place of employment. Much to my dismay he has learned the awful tactic of awkward conversation and stalling from hanging up a phone at a young age. The longer one stalls the greater the likelihood of the other party losing the will-power to say NO NO NO. So I will be working tomorrow and while it's only 4 hours of my day, it is the principle of the issue, I've never worked on Sundays and have informed the company that I cannot on countless occasions, yet, there I will be tomorrow, wasting my time for very little money.
Of course, tomorrow wouldn't be a concern at all had I been able to simply utter the word "no" at Thanksgiving when I was asked to come back and work Christmas. I didn't go seeking employment over my vacation. I, in fact, had very little desire to give up my days that were originally going to be relaxing and fulfilling for my last Christmas home as a student and with this as my official residence. Oh, and this word troubles me much more often than you know. Many a thing have I done which I would rather not have and did not need to simply because I lack the ability to say...no.
So to make myself feel better...
I would continue this blog and give my readers an update on what's really been happening in my life over the past few weeks, but....
NO, not tonight, perhaps some other night.
December 20, 2008
December 8, 2008
classy
I must be on the road to becoming classy. I went to the Art Museum in downtown Chicago yesterday and that makes two art museums in about 2 months. I was slightly depressed that most of the Monet and Van Gogh were currently not available for viewing, but there was a lot of other stuff that was well worth checking out. I am always fascinated by pointilism such as this wonderful work.
The reason for this visit to the art institute was to celebrate 3 wonderful years with Kristin. We realized that looking back on the three years, Chicago has been a spot we love to visit for some of our exciting "dates" so there was no place better to go to celebrate. A walk down Michigan ave in the winter, seeing ice skaters and all the lights and displays made for a romantic evenign as well. We ended up returning to the Grand Lux Cafe to dine. This was a great choice as well. We shared an entree of melt in your mouth shrimp and top sirloin and topped it off with wine and white chocolate rasberry truffle cheesecake. The atmosphere was also quite good for our purposes. You are all encouraged to check facebook for a few photos of our day.
The reason for this visit to the art institute was to celebrate 3 wonderful years with Kristin. We realized that looking back on the three years, Chicago has been a spot we love to visit for some of our exciting "dates" so there was no place better to go to celebrate. A walk down Michigan ave in the winter, seeing ice skaters and all the lights and displays made for a romantic evenign as well. We ended up returning to the Grand Lux Cafe to dine. This was a great choice as well. We shared an entree of melt in your mouth shrimp and top sirloin and topped it off with wine and white chocolate rasberry truffle cheesecake. The atmosphere was also quite good for our purposes. You are all encouraged to check facebook for a few photos of our day.
December 5, 2008
Santa
My health has finally improved, let's hope this continues. My voice appears to be back to about 90%. I have 2 concerts and no one knows how much rehearsal time in between and you know what that calls for...consumption on Saturday after the last of it is over.
I watched The Santa Claus tonight with Tim Allen...it's hard to believe I watched that in the theaters when I was in elementary school. It's still just as amazing now as it was then, I should really purchase that movie.
I'm becoming addicted to mochas and lattes. This probably isn't a good thing as I plan to put very little money onto a meal card next semester and will therefore shift my coffee purchasing to Starbucks which is considerably more expensive and likely more addicting (because it's actually good). I guess I know where my gigging money will be going. Now I just need to purchase some peppermint schnapps to go into my espressos and I'll be all set.
And to continue my stream of consciousness blog, I am pleased to report that, as of this week, my heat is again working and I therefore can hang out in my room and sleep without freezing to death. This is a wonderful development and I fully intend to take advantage of it.
One final, unrelated point: I watched Butler pull another ridiculous victory they didn't deserve out of their collective *** on ESPN U tonight. Cleveland state was up about 7 in an extremely low scoring game with 2 to go. It took Butler hitting a 3 pointer with time expiring to have either team break 50 points. Final score 50-48. Butler opened the game 3-3 from 3 point territory and then hit one of their next 14 from behind the line, only to close with several 3s in a row and steal a game they looked awful in. Sound familiar?
I watched The Santa Claus tonight with Tim Allen...it's hard to believe I watched that in the theaters when I was in elementary school. It's still just as amazing now as it was then, I should really purchase that movie.
I'm becoming addicted to mochas and lattes. This probably isn't a good thing as I plan to put very little money onto a meal card next semester and will therefore shift my coffee purchasing to Starbucks which is considerably more expensive and likely more addicting (because it's actually good). I guess I know where my gigging money will be going. Now I just need to purchase some peppermint schnapps to go into my espressos and I'll be all set.
And to continue my stream of consciousness blog, I am pleased to report that, as of this week, my heat is again working and I therefore can hang out in my room and sleep without freezing to death. This is a wonderful development and I fully intend to take advantage of it.
One final, unrelated point: I watched Butler pull another ridiculous victory they didn't deserve out of their collective *** on ESPN U tonight. Cleveland state was up about 7 in an extremely low scoring game with 2 to go. It took Butler hitting a 3 pointer with time expiring to have either team break 50 points. Final score 50-48. Butler opened the game 3-3 from 3 point territory and then hit one of their next 14 from behind the line, only to close with several 3s in a row and steal a game they looked awful in. Sound familiar?
December 2, 2008
voice
So, since I barely had a speaking voice yesterday and am uncertain of what today will bring on that front, I'm going to use my written voice this morning. First off...the drive back to campus on Sunday was a pain. 6 hours when it should take 5 due to poor weather conditions and a major accident causing at least 6 miles worth of back up on 80/90. Secondly...once I got back I had to attend a 3 hour rehearsal for the Christmas concert. (btw, you should come hear me play with the VUSO. There's a cool brass fanfare composed by one of our own, Trevor Castorline. The concerts are Friday at 7:30 and Saturday at 5:00) Those rehearsals are always such a joy. And to top all that off, I woke up Monday without a voice to start Hell Week. We have so many rehearsals this week...it's nuts.
On a lighter note, it is good to be back with friends and most importantly, Kristin.
I drove to Noodles and company yesterday and at the intersection next to TGIFridays here in Valpo I slid straight down the hill while trying to break and hit my front bumper pretty good because they had decided not to put salt on that dangerous spot at all apparently. I was incredibly fortunate and blessed that the light was green so I didn't slide into the crossing traffic and instead just had to make an extremely awkward turn and go on my way.
One final thing...I was confused and perplexed by President elect Obama's Cabinet choices yesterday, but upon further thought, I actually respect him for choosing a panel that seems to have differing views from his own. This is a mark of someone who truly wants to lead, he wants to hear all the sides before making major decisions that affect all of our lives.
On a lighter note, it is good to be back with friends and most importantly, Kristin.
I drove to Noodles and company yesterday and at the intersection next to TGIFridays here in Valpo I slid straight down the hill while trying to break and hit my front bumper pretty good because they had decided not to put salt on that dangerous spot at all apparently. I was incredibly fortunate and blessed that the light was green so I didn't slide into the crossing traffic and instead just had to make an extremely awkward turn and go on my way.
One final thing...I was confused and perplexed by President elect Obama's Cabinet choices yesterday, but upon further thought, I actually respect him for choosing a panel that seems to have differing views from his own. This is a mark of someone who truly wants to lead, he wants to hear all the sides before making major decisions that affect all of our lives.
November 29, 2008
two
Soo....I'm pretty sure that there are no cuter two year olds than my nephew and niece. Just tossing that out there. I spent a week with my nephew just now and several days with my niece. Together, they are unstoppable. They were sitting on the couch next to each other watching Bugs Bunny and complimenting each other on their pajamas...how cute is that? Matt: "Ooo, you have soft pj's" Kristin: "Yeah, they're purple." Matt: "Mine have cars." Kristin: "Ooo." ADORABLE!!!
I'm fairly certain that I won't need to eat for the next week due to my consumption this week. I'm so exhausted from eating too much and staying up too late. It's pathetic that I think midnight is super late now. Such is life. Perhaps I'll post more and in more detail about the rest of this trip, but I could not hold off on announcing that I have extremely cute relatives.
I'm fairly certain that I won't need to eat for the next week due to my consumption this week. I'm so exhausted from eating too much and staying up too late. It's pathetic that I think midnight is super late now. Such is life. Perhaps I'll post more and in more detail about the rest of this trip, but I could not hold off on announcing that I have extremely cute relatives.
November 8, 2008
NWISO
I went to see the Lufstrom Trumpet Concertino premiered by the Northwest Indiana Symphony on Thursday night and must say I don't understand why their principal trumpet can't be hired on to teach lessons here like their principal horn, flute, clarinet and oboe players are. He would be much more useful than our current instructor, but what do I know, I just play the trumpet. At any rate, it was well worth the 10 dollar student ticket to see the performance.
On another note, if you haven't tried the Bacon Cheddar Frizzle from Passtimes, now is the time...go, eat it. I did not get that last night in resuming the Friday night Passtimes tradition, however I did have my usual Long Island as I tried their Panini (also quite good).
On another note, if you haven't tried the Bacon Cheddar Frizzle from Passtimes, now is the time...go, eat it. I did not get that last night in resuming the Friday night Passtimes tradition, however I did have my usual Long Island as I tried their Panini (also quite good).
November 4, 2008
Election Day 2008
Now, you might think that given the title and the fact that it is in fact November 4th in the year of a highly contested election I would be writing about the election, but no...that wouldn't be a very Dave thing to do. So instead, I will write about cemetaries (this of course could be related to the election due to the number of dead people who will undoubtedly attempt to vote today in my home state alone).
After having visited Niles, MI as many of you know I was planning to do Saturday night, the four of us who had just had the life scared out of us proceeded to drive to Posey's Chapel in LaPorte, IN. This is supposedly one of the most haunted places in NW Indiana. We wound up not getting out of the vehicle because we realized that none of us had a flashlight and our driver had none in his car either. We are planning a return trip, but can I just say that this is one of the creepiest looking places I have ever been. Something about the surrounding areas being rather wooded and a huge mansion being the nearest thing across the road and up a hill combined with just the country small side of the road cemetary makes it very intimidating to even look at from your car at the turnoff point. I cannot wait to return.
After having visited Niles, MI as many of you know I was planning to do Saturday night, the four of us who had just had the life scared out of us proceeded to drive to Posey's Chapel in LaPorte, IN. This is supposedly one of the most haunted places in NW Indiana. We wound up not getting out of the vehicle because we realized that none of us had a flashlight and our driver had none in his car either. We are planning a return trip, but can I just say that this is one of the creepiest looking places I have ever been. Something about the surrounding areas being rather wooded and a huge mansion being the nearest thing across the road and up a hill combined with just the country small side of the road cemetary makes it very intimidating to even look at from your car at the turnoff point. I cannot wait to return.
October 29, 2008
Tried falling back to sleep
...but I failed. So...here I am...2 hours before I need to be up and what do I think? "Oh, I should post a blog." Lucky you. So...I've counted, and my roomate's cell phone has received over 15 texts loudly in the past 10 minutes while he sleeps.
Anyway, I got to hear a live jazz concert last night. The faculty jazz trio had a guest trumpet player in who was quite phenominal. Then I grabbed a late night beer and wings combo from BW3s and wound up pulling a Zach and Dave scream session in Deusenburg...'twas a good night. For those of you who are outside the loop...scream session does not have the dirty connotation it may seem to, it is simply the best way I could find to explain that we enjoy screaming (aka high notes) on the trumpet. We do these late at night because it's less embarassing than having the whole department (particularly our profs) walking around right outside the doors wondering why we are practicing so inefficiently.
On a another note, I'd love it if the Browns have finally decided to play more competitive football for the remainder of the season. Listening to Sunday's game on WTAM the whole way back from Mentor was a joy. Good football for once, I didn't know they had it in them.
Still on sports: the CAVS lost their season opener to the Celts...I suppose that's acceptable. I'd really rather the Rays win than the Phillies, but it looks rather bleak...doesn't it?
Continuing with my stream of consciousness blogging: I don't care which candidate you are going to/have voted for...this campaign is ridiculously dirty...maybe I'm just older and therefore more aware, but if feels worse than before this year. My favorite adds are the ones the candidates don't even "approve." The best add in my opinion has to be McCain telling the world that he voted with Bush 90% of the time. I love the fact that there doesn't even need to be anything else said...that's enough. However, I'm sick of the only adds ever shown in Valpo being Obama ones...give us some variety...fork over the cash McCain. Also, neither of them has a half-way decent Education plan...big surprise. Apparently the teacher's union doesn't have as much power as they'd like to think.
Still on politics...ever notice how Bush's approval rating is so important to everyone...oh snap, it's only 30x % and all that? Why is that so bad when we are going to elect a member of the Senate? Their approval rating as a governing body is below 10%. Just something to ponder. I thank God everyday during this campaign that the president doesn't even have half the power these two claim that office holds. If it did...
Anyway, I got to hear a live jazz concert last night. The faculty jazz trio had a guest trumpet player in who was quite phenominal. Then I grabbed a late night beer and wings combo from BW3s and wound up pulling a Zach and Dave scream session in Deusenburg...'twas a good night. For those of you who are outside the loop...scream session does not have the dirty connotation it may seem to, it is simply the best way I could find to explain that we enjoy screaming (aka high notes) on the trumpet. We do these late at night because it's less embarassing than having the whole department (particularly our profs) walking around right outside the doors wondering why we are practicing so inefficiently.
On a another note, I'd love it if the Browns have finally decided to play more competitive football for the remainder of the season. Listening to Sunday's game on WTAM the whole way back from Mentor was a joy. Good football for once, I didn't know they had it in them.
Still on sports: the CAVS lost their season opener to the Celts...I suppose that's acceptable. I'd really rather the Rays win than the Phillies, but it looks rather bleak...doesn't it?
Continuing with my stream of consciousness blogging: I don't care which candidate you are going to/have voted for...this campaign is ridiculously dirty...maybe I'm just older and therefore more aware, but if feels worse than before this year. My favorite adds are the ones the candidates don't even "approve." The best add in my opinion has to be McCain telling the world that he voted with Bush 90% of the time. I love the fact that there doesn't even need to be anything else said...that's enough. However, I'm sick of the only adds ever shown in Valpo being Obama ones...give us some variety...fork over the cash McCain. Also, neither of them has a half-way decent Education plan...big surprise. Apparently the teacher's union doesn't have as much power as they'd like to think.
Still on politics...ever notice how Bush's approval rating is so important to everyone...oh snap, it's only 30x % and all that? Why is that so bad when we are going to elect a member of the Senate? Their approval rating as a governing body is below 10%. Just something to ponder. I thank God everyday during this campaign that the president doesn't even have half the power these two claim that office holds. If it did...
October 25, 2008
Art
Well, perhaps I'm becoming more cultured. In the past 5 or so years, I have discovered that I can really get something out of trips to art museums. St. Louis, Chicago, Cleveland...they all have some fantastic collections of paintings from Europe and the US. Good stuff. I went to the Cleveland Museum of Art today, and though much of the art I would have most liked to have seen is currently in Michigan as a touring exhibit, i still found a ton of fascinating artwork to ponder. I have to say that Caravaggio is quickly becoming one of my favorite painters...I haven't seen a work by him that I don't like. Renoir and Monet are also favorites, but they were among those not present today, due to the rennovations that won't be complete until 2012. I really don't understand how artists can use light in such fantastic ways to make paintings jump off the wall at you from across the room with such dynamic contrast. The use of certain bright colors to accentuate a certain object reminds me of similar techniques used in famous musical compositions...I won't bore you all with detail, but it's fun to ponder the connections between the major art forms from time to time.
October 24, 2008
alright...
so I slacked again. It's been quite a while since my last post. I've been going to bed too early to watch the late shows and haven't gotten back into CNN watching, so I don't have news stories to laugh at. I also haven't been watching enough sports to rant about it. I guess I'm just boring when it comes to blogging. I got pulled over by a cop for the first time in my driving career on Wednesday on the Indiana Toll Road whiel venturing home from Valpo for my fall break. I got off with just a warning because of my spotless record and probably because the cop realized it was kind of pointless to pull someone over for doing 10 over the speed limit while passing a semi. Still, that was some excitement and I definitely stayed a lot closer to 70 for the remainder of IN only to speed again once I hit Ohio.
On another note entirely, I can now say I've been in the Blue Chip...I didn't gamble and was only in it for a few minutes. We were looking for a place to eat up in MI city after having tried to visit the mall just for something to do on Sunday afternoon and I thought that a casino probably had good food. After looking at the menus posted out front of their restaraunts however, we decided 30 bucks a plate was a bit steep for our liking and wound up at a Red Lobster instead. By the way...it had definitely been too long since I had last had Calamari because I forgot it was in the top few spots on my favorite foods list. Delicious!
Went Disc Golfing today. Wonderful used of my afternoon, I must say. Georgious day for it also. Upper 50s with clear blue skies and the clear blue lake next to the course.
A final thought, if you want a good laugh...you have to go see the Beverly Hills Chihuahua movie. Saw it, first trip to the new Valpo theater (which by the way, is not as bad as Meghan's first review) and laughed most of the way through it.
That is all.
On another note entirely, I can now say I've been in the Blue Chip...I didn't gamble and was only in it for a few minutes. We were looking for a place to eat up in MI city after having tried to visit the mall just for something to do on Sunday afternoon and I thought that a casino probably had good food. After looking at the menus posted out front of their restaraunts however, we decided 30 bucks a plate was a bit steep for our liking and wound up at a Red Lobster instead. By the way...it had definitely been too long since I had last had Calamari because I forgot it was in the top few spots on my favorite foods list. Delicious!
Went Disc Golfing today. Wonderful used of my afternoon, I must say. Georgious day for it also. Upper 50s with clear blue skies and the clear blue lake next to the course.
A final thought, if you want a good laugh...you have to go see the Beverly Hills Chihuahua movie. Saw it, first trip to the new Valpo theater (which by the way, is not as bad as Meghan's first review) and laughed most of the way through it.
That is all.
October 14, 2008
This past weekend...
...was a lot of fun. But I will first rewind to last Wednesday. I played on 3 concerts with the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra. They were children's concerts. Roughly 8000 excited elementary kids watched us perform American music selections. It was a neat experience, oh, and getting paid to play isn't bad either.
Saturday I watched a lot of It's Always Sunny and America's next top model while waiting for Brett to never show up over at Meghan's. I'm not sure who won NTM, but Tyra is a bit of a jerk.
After another concert on Saturday night with the VUSO, I retired back to Meghan's to have a drink with Brett and Kristin. Meghan quickly joined and I discovered that Orange and Cherry Limade have not been mixed for a reason.
Lastly, for this post, I'd like to ask if anyone knows how the heck the 1-3 Cleveland Browns beat the defending Superbowl champs, the 4-0 NY Giants on Monday Night Football? I've got nothing...maybe Anderson was playing hurt the past couple weeks, cause he was on fire last night.
Oh, I lied, there is a nother last thing...Passtimes serves a very good burger. I highly recommend going there on Friday nights for a Long Island and a reasonably priced burger.
That is all.
Saturday I watched a lot of It's Always Sunny and America's next top model while waiting for Brett to never show up over at Meghan's. I'm not sure who won NTM, but Tyra is a bit of a jerk.
After another concert on Saturday night with the VUSO, I retired back to Meghan's to have a drink with Brett and Kristin. Meghan quickly joined and I discovered that Orange and Cherry Limade have not been mixed for a reason.
Lastly, for this post, I'd like to ask if anyone knows how the heck the 1-3 Cleveland Browns beat the defending Superbowl champs, the 4-0 NY Giants on Monday Night Football? I've got nothing...maybe Anderson was playing hurt the past couple weeks, cause he was on fire last night.
Oh, I lied, there is a nother last thing...Passtimes serves a very good burger. I highly recommend going there on Friday nights for a Long Island and a reasonably priced burger.
That is all.
October 7, 2008
Laundry day
Oh, what a joy it is to do laundry in a dorm. Earlier today I walked by the laundry room while my clothes were still in the washer and heard what sort of sounded like a jet engine firing up. I decided to just keep walking and hope that my clothes weren't being torn to shreds. This led me to wonder...what the heck would I do if all my clothes were destroyed by campus laundry machines? On the one hand it would be nice to be able to go buy clothes I wanted, because I will say that I walked through Kohl's the other day and a ton of nice stuff was on clearances and such. However, I don't have the money to buy a new wardrobe right now...and probably never will. Wardrobes are a piece by piece acquisition process and I'm pretty sure my clothes are not one of my insured possessions...hmmm. With campus laundry, one never knows...
September 30, 2008
back to the basics
So, after having not posted at all for a month, I seem to be getting back into the swing of blogging. If I'm going to begin blogging regularly once again, I probably need to find something to say. This has led me to conclude I should get back to the basics. I think I'll be watching more television (aka Jay Leno/CNN/Presidential Race and of course Sunny and The Office) and also blogging about sports. My current update is...I apologize to everyone for the Indians (my team)'s lack of ability to close the deal to keep the White Sox out of the playoffs. If we had beaten them in that last game, there would be no playoff tonight. Perhaps the Twins can finish them off and complete what we started.
Another look at sports poses the question: WTF is up with college football rankings? When Georgia loses to the 8th ranked team in the land while USC loses to Oregon State...which team should be ranked lower the next week? Georgia, right? Yeah, that's what I thought. Apparently none of the major polls agree with us. USC is ranked above Georgia in the AP, the main media poll, and the ESPN polls.
Another look at sports poses the question: WTF is up with college football rankings? When Georgia loses to the 8th ranked team in the land while USC loses to Oregon State...which team should be ranked lower the next week? Georgia, right? Yeah, that's what I thought. Apparently none of the major polls agree with us. USC is ranked above Georgia in the AP, the main media poll, and the ESPN polls.
video
So, if I were in possession of a video camera, I would definitely have a great video coming up. I definitely think that we should shoot a video in Halloween costumes complete with flowing capes etc. at Valplayso. Random tidbits of being completely ridiculous with dubbed over voices would be perfect, don't you think?
On a side note, if someone sends you a fax...don't cancel it before you receive the first full page, cause it is possible that the first page is the only page, and that it is someone's application for a loan. Small frustration today.
This one should be much easier to swallow than my last posting which turned into a novel.
On a side note, if someone sends you a fax...don't cancel it before you receive the first full page, cause it is possible that the first page is the only page, and that it is someone's application for a loan. Small frustration today.
This one should be much easier to swallow than my last posting which turned into a novel.
September 28, 2008
passtimes and chicago
Well, as the title suggests...I had a good weekend thus far. Hopefully, it has not yet come to an end. I am planning on making a trip to the dunes this evening which should be good fun as well.
Updates on my life in the last month since I posted include, but are not limited to:
A strong urge/need to purchase a C trumpet to perform rep. that doesn't rest well on the Bb as well as to play in my professional orchestra (which is new also within the last month), the Laporte County Symphony Orchestra.
I have become addicted to The Office, and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, two fantastic Thursday night programs you should all be watching. Side note: who knew cannibalism could be a topic for cheap laughs?
I had the opportunity to perform in a concert for the Confuscious Institute along with the rest of the VUSO, 5 HS string ensembles, about 20 fantastic musicians from China, and their leader who is a world famous Erhu soloist...if you've never heard the Erhu...look it up and the web or something, it is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments you'll ever hear.
I've visited the outlet malls in MI city for the first time, and found the Central Ave. beach at the dunes.
I've gotten an idea for a fantastic halloween party hosted by one of my readers off the ground.
I played in a wedding...always nice to have gigs.
I've made strides toward putting on a joint senior recital.
Friday night passtimes trips have become a regular occurance. Including two nights ago which was reminiscent of the old Wednesday night tradition.
I heard the CSO perform for free in Symphony Center yesterday and was blown away by their phenominal brass sound and the virtuousity of their concert master.
end of updates.
While I have not recently tried out for any professional athletic teams, I think it is important to note that I am already participating in a professional ensemble which is much more relevant to my field of study.
I have not eaten at a Sonic ever...but I have eaten at pretty much every restaraunt in Valpo over the past few weeks as I'm avoiding campus food like the plague this semester.
I'll leave you with one final thought...Kyle has a girl?
Updates on my life in the last month since I posted include, but are not limited to:
A strong urge/need to purchase a C trumpet to perform rep. that doesn't rest well on the Bb as well as to play in my professional orchestra (which is new also within the last month), the Laporte County Symphony Orchestra.
I have become addicted to The Office, and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, two fantastic Thursday night programs you should all be watching. Side note: who knew cannibalism could be a topic for cheap laughs?
I had the opportunity to perform in a concert for the Confuscious Institute along with the rest of the VUSO, 5 HS string ensembles, about 20 fantastic musicians from China, and their leader who is a world famous Erhu soloist...if you've never heard the Erhu...look it up and the web or something, it is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments you'll ever hear.
I've visited the outlet malls in MI city for the first time, and found the Central Ave. beach at the dunes.
I've gotten an idea for a fantastic halloween party hosted by one of my readers off the ground.
I played in a wedding...always nice to have gigs.
I've made strides toward putting on a joint senior recital.
Friday night passtimes trips have become a regular occurance. Including two nights ago which was reminiscent of the old Wednesday night tradition.
I heard the CSO perform for free in Symphony Center yesterday and was blown away by their phenominal brass sound and the virtuousity of their concert master.
end of updates.
While I have not recently tried out for any professional athletic teams, I think it is important to note that I am already participating in a professional ensemble which is much more relevant to my field of study.
I have not eaten at a Sonic ever...but I have eaten at pretty much every restaraunt in Valpo over the past few weeks as I'm avoiding campus food like the plague this semester.
I'll leave you with one final thought...Kyle has a girl?
August 22, 2008
sizemore...
is pretty much amazing. 4/5 with 7 RBIs. Wow. THat's all I have to say. 3 run HR and a bases clearing 3 run triple. He was hitting the seams off the ball today. Lee picks up his 18th win also. Great day to go to the ballpark. 10-3 victory was perfect. We're streaking too. Now we're only 8 under .500 instead of 14. Maybe we'll make the season look respectable after all. only finish 3 or 4 under rather than much worse.
I have to pack up my car tomorrow to leave for VU on Saturday morning. Perhaps I should have begun organizing a while ago...instead of leaving all the work for tomorrow. Can it just be Saturday with everything already packed??? Guess not.
I have to pack up my car tomorrow to leave for VU on Saturday morning. Perhaps I should have begun organizing a while ago...instead of leaving all the work for tomorrow. Can it just be Saturday with everything already packed??? Guess not.
August 19, 2008
moving back soon
So...I move back on Saturday and I expect to see some people and do some stuff before classes resume. So contact me, or expect to be contacted. Attempting to fit everything into my "old man's car" should be a fun task, but I think I'm up to the challenge.
I did some shopping today at outlet malls in preperation for a student teaching semester. That was fun. Also picked up some extremely comfortable sandals.
I really don't have a whole lot to talk about, because I think everyone knows about Michael Phelps and everyone will see pictures of Kristin's visit and my vacation upon my return. That is all for now.
I did some shopping today at outlet malls in preperation for a student teaching semester. That was fun. Also picked up some extremely comfortable sandals.
I really don't have a whole lot to talk about, because I think everyone knows about Michael Phelps and everyone will see pictures of Kristin's visit and my vacation upon my return. That is all for now.
August 8, 2008
checking in...
...to say that vacation was amazing. The reunion was a great time with 118ish of my relatives gathering at Montgomery Bell State Park. Spending time in the Smokies hiking and camping was a ton of fun too. For pics...see me at VU in a few weeks.
This week back in Mentor has been average...nothing exciting to report, but tonight I'm going to go see Dvorak's Ninth played by the Cleveland Orchestra at their summer home, Blossum Music Center. Hopefully, I can get back into the swing of updating this blog more often.
This week back in Mentor has been average...nothing exciting to report, but tonight I'm going to go see Dvorak's Ninth played by the Cleveland Orchestra at their summer home, Blossum Music Center. Hopefully, I can get back into the swing of updating this blog more often.
July 16, 2008
disappointment arrives
It's been a while since my last post, but the all-star game and some annoying news has brought me back to post another blog.
I just watched two bad calls by umpires in the All-Star game. Two guys were safe under tags and called out in the 11th. I would like to report however that the Indians contributed well save for Grady Sizemore grounding to second to cause a force out at home with the bases loaded and no one out in the bottom of 10. He had scored the tying run after singling and stealing second uncontested. Cliff Lee started the game and pitched two scoreless innings with just one hit allowed and 3 strikeouts. Puljos who I also like to watch went 2-3.
The other news bringing me to the computer today is the fact that Anheiser Busch is no longer a good old fashioned USA product. It has been sold to Belgium...what the heck? When'd that go up for grabs. Sitting around and watching baseball while drinking Budweiser or Bud Lite is an american passtime and now...Belgium has its hand in it. Not cool Anheiser Busch, not cool.
I just watched two bad calls by umpires in the All-Star game. Two guys were safe under tags and called out in the 11th. I would like to report however that the Indians contributed well save for Grady Sizemore grounding to second to cause a force out at home with the bases loaded and no one out in the bottom of 10. He had scored the tying run after singling and stealing second uncontested. Cliff Lee started the game and pitched two scoreless innings with just one hit allowed and 3 strikeouts. Puljos who I also like to watch went 2-3.
The other news bringing me to the computer today is the fact that Anheiser Busch is no longer a good old fashioned USA product. It has been sold to Belgium...what the heck? When'd that go up for grabs. Sitting around and watching baseball while drinking Budweiser or Bud Lite is an american passtime and now...Belgium has its hand in it. Not cool Anheiser Busch, not cool.
July 7, 2008
obligatory post 4th weekend post
Today was a great day, save for one little detail...I hate it when people think you don't comprehend something, but you do. I'm not a stupid or ignorant person. It really gets to me.
That being said. I've done more physical activity in the past few days than I have in about a year and it feels great. I'm not sure why I've allowed myself to become sedentary for this long, but it really needs to be put to a permanent end. I ran around full force playing frisbee for several hours on the 5th and today I got some frisbee golf in. I've done night walks every evening with the kids...and so much more.
Piling 9 people into a 7seater van was a fun experience leaving the fireworks, but we made it home safely, so I suppose my ribcage is the only damage we incurred. I got a credit card a week or so ago, and a nice 45.52 gas charge today is the first thing on it...hello real world.
Hope everyone else's 4th weekends were as fun/relaxing as mine.
That being said. I've done more physical activity in the past few days than I have in about a year and it feels great. I'm not sure why I've allowed myself to become sedentary for this long, but it really needs to be put to a permanent end. I ran around full force playing frisbee for several hours on the 5th and today I got some frisbee golf in. I've done night walks every evening with the kids...and so much more.
Piling 9 people into a 7seater van was a fun experience leaving the fireworks, but we made it home safely, so I suppose my ribcage is the only damage we incurred. I got a credit card a week or so ago, and a nice 45.52 gas charge today is the first thing on it...hello real world.
Hope everyone else's 4th weekends were as fun/relaxing as mine.
July 3, 2008
...
So...saw the Cleveland Orchestra perform for free last night in public square. That was pretty sweet. That's about it...I'll post more at a later date.
June 24, 2008
suggestion
Do not get in a car accident. I was in one Sunday afternoon at 4:45, and that's a moment I won't soon forget. My dad was driving me home from the two of us playing disc golf up at a place on the lake. We played 18 and I found 3 discs, so all was going great, I also got my low score for that course. But then about halfway home at a bend of the road, my dad looked off to the side of the road at a restaraunt we had been thinking of eating at sometime and it all happened so fast. I glanced forward to see an SUV with its left turn signal on and stopped and very little space. I yelled at my dad to watch out and stop...he slammed on the brakes and we screached to a halt about 3 feet from the car, but the relief had no time to set in as the car behind us hit us at 35, didn't brake at all or was speeding something awful. My head slammed into the metal piece holding the visor in place and I had a nice 2-3" welt to show for it just under my receding hairline. My back has become increasingly sore each day after and my dad is very shaken up and hasn't yet gotten back in the driver's seat. I can't blame him, I just did today.
I talked to the paramedic who was on the scene quickly as well as the police. THe paramedic asked me quite a few questions and determined that I didn't need immediate medical attention. It was to my discretion as to whether to go to the hospital or not and I can go in if any other problems develop.
My dad isn't at fault, the car behind is with an ACD...that is all.
I talked to the paramedic who was on the scene quickly as well as the police. THe paramedic asked me quite a few questions and determined that I didn't need immediate medical attention. It was to my discretion as to whether to go to the hospital or not and I can go in if any other problems develop.
My dad isn't at fault, the car behind is with an ACD...that is all.
June 18, 2008
more dental adventures
Is it sad that I'm excited for a 7:45 dentist appointment tomorrow morning? It means I get to sleep in. Typically I work at 7, but 7's when I'll get up tomorrow.
Watched White Noise 2 tonight...it was alright, though the first was definetly better.
That sums up the day.
More to come.
Watched White Noise 2 tonight...it was alright, though the first was definetly better.
That sums up the day.
More to come.
June 14, 2008
lazy day
Ever have one of those days where you are tired all day, but never sleepy? You are just sort of lazy and don't feel like putting effort into anything? They tend to happen on days where you should be busy. Today...I had the wonderful experience of that feeling falling on a day where I could do just that...nothing. It is a glorious thing. It was much needed too, after having started work this past week. I've not yet adjusted to starting at 7am or to standing all day so sleeping in 'til around 11 was the perfect remedy.
On a completely different topic, I find it quite sad that 83% of polled Japanese are following our nation's presidential race while only 80% of our own people are. How can more of another country's citizens care about our country than our own? I think this proves the pure and simple fact that a great number of our population don't feel that they count in our representative democracy (or as I may begin to call it: "Smoke and Mirrors Democracy"). Apathy is running at an all-time high, yet we all reserve the right to complain about how this nation is run. I am, myself, guilty of this most of the time. Most other countries also feel that Barak will make a better president than McCain and that no matter who is elected, changes will occur that will be for the betterment of foreign policy as compared to Bush's reign.
Another scary fact dawned on me today; the terrible flooding occuring in WI and IA has and will continue to destroy a large portion of the world's crops and food. This is going to cause gas related inflation of grocery cost to balloon terribly, increasing our country's poverty and unemployment rates. Not good times, not good times. I am quite glad that upon graduation I will be able to find a job that will never cease to exist. Children will always need an education.
On a completely different topic, I find it quite sad that 83% of polled Japanese are following our nation's presidential race while only 80% of our own people are. How can more of another country's citizens care about our country than our own? I think this proves the pure and simple fact that a great number of our population don't feel that they count in our representative democracy (or as I may begin to call it: "Smoke and Mirrors Democracy"). Apathy is running at an all-time high, yet we all reserve the right to complain about how this nation is run. I am, myself, guilty of this most of the time. Most other countries also feel that Barak will make a better president than McCain and that no matter who is elected, changes will occur that will be for the betterment of foreign policy as compared to Bush's reign.
Another scary fact dawned on me today; the terrible flooding occuring in WI and IA has and will continue to destroy a large portion of the world's crops and food. This is going to cause gas related inflation of grocery cost to balloon terribly, increasing our country's poverty and unemployment rates. Not good times, not good times. I am quite glad that upon graduation I will be able to find a job that will never cease to exist. Children will always need an education.
thunderstorms
There's nothing like a good summer thunderstorm. I mean, honestly, cools the area down, gives much needed rain to the ground, fun to watch, and is the equivalent of fireworks in terms of noise production. How can you beat it?
There was a decent one tonight that I watched develop over the lake. I am taking note that I need to do this more often. It is so different watching it in the open and over water. Perhaps one day I'll see a water spout. I don't think that I should move to an area that doesn't have a lake nearby. I've become quite attached to the great lakes over the years.
There was a decent one tonight that I watched develop over the lake. I am taking note that I need to do this more often. It is so different watching it in the open and over water. Perhaps one day I'll see a water spout. I don't think that I should move to an area that doesn't have a lake nearby. I've become quite attached to the great lakes over the years.
June 11, 2008
official
My car is now official! It has license plates. I find this to be pretty cool, however...it probably isn't that special, since I'm almost the last person among my friends to get a car. I'll revel in my excitement a bit longer though. I have a car, and it has plates. Amazing.
Today I managed to knock about 6-10 eggs onto the ground causing a huge mess. That's about all I have outside of the license plates for excitement from my day to this point. THe trumpet lesson was good, but uneventful. The evening should be good though. I look forward to popcorn and Centenial.
On a sports note...how 'bout that injured Puljos...sucks to be a Cards fan. Cleveland has won two in a row, pretty amazing. However, in order to do it...C.C. had to retire the last 17 Twins batters in a row for a 5 hit shut out because the Tribe's offense is so impotent that 8 runs only led to 1 run. We went from one night of 8 runs on 3 hits to the next night 1 run on 8 hits...explain that to me, if you can.
All is good in Mentor.
Today I managed to knock about 6-10 eggs onto the ground causing a huge mess. That's about all I have outside of the license plates for excitement from my day to this point. THe trumpet lesson was good, but uneventful. The evening should be good though. I look forward to popcorn and Centenial.
On a sports note...how 'bout that injured Puljos...sucks to be a Cards fan. Cleveland has won two in a row, pretty amazing. However, in order to do it...C.C. had to retire the last 17 Twins batters in a row for a 5 hit shut out because the Tribe's offense is so impotent that 8 runs only led to 1 run. We went from one night of 8 runs on 3 hits to the next night 1 run on 8 hits...explain that to me, if you can.
All is good in Mentor.
June 10, 2008
dentistry is a cruel profession
SO, I had a dentist appointment today. I got in and sat in the chair at 7am (yuck). The dentist proceeded to work on the tooth farthest to the back of my mouth. THis was both difficult for him, and a strain for me. Having your mouth wide open for about 30 minutes...not fun. At any rate...the dentist sort of laughed at me as he was discovering the cavity last time. Today, as I waited in the chair while the drugs kicked in, I was forced to listen to the patient next door choking because a hygenist had allowed something to fall down his throat rather than using her vacuum thingy (for lack of a better term).
All in all the day turned out well, but that was a rough start.
All in all the day turned out well, but that was a rough start.
June 7, 2008
hairball
So, I went to visit Judith and Kristin today. And the highlight of this activity was their cat Silver. Silver hacked up a hairball, and having only had dogs in our family, I had never heard the noise cats make. I thought it was a baby talking, so I looked around for Kristin, but she was in the opposite direction from which the noise had come.
Well, other than that, I think Kristin finally warmed up to me a bit. I can now get high fives and share a yatzee pencil with her. So those are definitely plusses. I'm getting used to this having a car thing. Picking up and leaving when I want is a great feeling.
Now, hopefully I'll be taking in a scary movie with another of my nieces tonight, having already taken Hannah to see Kristin. Sarah's the one left. Jeremiah gets my attention all the time, and Matt's a bit of a long drive.
'Twas a good day.
Well, other than that, I think Kristin finally warmed up to me a bit. I can now get high fives and share a yatzee pencil with her. So those are definitely plusses. I'm getting used to this having a car thing. Picking up and leaving when I want is a great feeling.
Now, hopefully I'll be taking in a scary movie with another of my nieces tonight, having already taken Hannah to see Kristin. Sarah's the one left. Jeremiah gets my attention all the time, and Matt's a bit of a long drive.
'Twas a good day.
June 5, 2008
solved
Well, that last post is now worthless, because I finally have orientation tomorrow. Just an update. In other news, a mission family from Nigeria is coming into town and staying at our place tonight. I'm looking forward to stories.
Side note...I tried the Magma wings at the Winking Lizard and they are definitely hotter than Blazin' at BW3's. That is cool however, because I like this establishment better anyway. I've never had to wait over an hour to be waited on and have food brought. Whereas, BW3's cannot make that same claim.
Side note...I tried the Magma wings at the Winking Lizard and they are definitely hotter than Blazin' at BW3's. That is cool however, because I like this establishment better anyway. I've never had to wait over an hour to be waited on and have food brought. Whereas, BW3's cannot make that same claim.
June 4, 2008
no ranting
My apologies for not posting, though I fear no one reads this blog. My reason for not posting is simple, I've had very little positive to say lately and my reputation does not need any help toward being a rant-er. I'll keep this complaint brief. Why won't a place that says they'll hire you give you a call so that you can go in for orientation...especially a place which is painfully understaffed and could use a reliable, hard worker?
Case closed. I'll check in again soon, I hope.
Case closed. I'll check in again soon, I hope.
May 22, 2008
Cleveland Sports are terrible, but I'm still a fan
I realize I haven't posted in quite some time, but I don't think that really bothers anyone due to my small number of readers. This post will quickly sum up my summer thus far.
First off, as the title suggest, I'm a little disenchanted with cleveland's sports teams. The Caveliers had no excuse for losing to Boston. LeBron looked terrible the whole series and then stepped it up for one game and the rest of the team took it as a cue to quit trying so he had no support in game seven. The Indians had a sweet homestand winning 6 out of 7 at one point, but now they've gone on the road to be swept by our cross-state rivals and the hated White Sox, the closest thing we have to true rivals in back to back series...this has taken us from from several games up on the White Sox to several games back because while we've lost 6 in a row, they've won quite a few in a row. It has also killed some of my interest in their season. No team should have the starting pitching we have and be under .500. Our starters went on a stretch of 44 and 1/3 innings without giving up a run. I happened to go to the park for a double header in that stretch. Both starters of the games I saw pitched 9 shut out innings...we only won one of the games. Which leads me to ask...WTF? I did, however, witness in person the 14th unassisted triple play in MLB history, a fact I'll share with my grandchildren one day.
Last weekend I went with our church's youth group to Pioneer Camp and Retreat Center on Lake Erie in New York. I slept on thin mattresses placed on wooden frames of bunk beds and put in quite a few volunteer hours cleaning up various parts of their camp. All in all it was a great experience (check facebook for pictures).
I've also been on the hunt for a job and a car, both of which cause stress and until today had not been rewarding. As of today, I believe I will be driving home a car on Saturday to call my own. This should be great. Hopefully I won't wait another several weeks before updating this and therefore I'll be able to keep you all posted. I think that I'll be giving in and working at McDonalds for another summer, though. I'm going to go in and demand the hours that I will work tomorrow morning. It is better to be working than to not be working both because I get very bored with nothing to do and because getting paid rather than waiting for a better job seems to be in my best interest. ON the bright side, all the employees and managers who made last summer terrible no longer work at McDonalds. So this summer should be a decent one after all.
That's about all I feel like posting tonight. My next post should be slightly less informative and quite a bit more enjoyable/amusing whichever the case may be.
First off, as the title suggest, I'm a little disenchanted with cleveland's sports teams. The Caveliers had no excuse for losing to Boston. LeBron looked terrible the whole series and then stepped it up for one game and the rest of the team took it as a cue to quit trying so he had no support in game seven. The Indians had a sweet homestand winning 6 out of 7 at one point, but now they've gone on the road to be swept by our cross-state rivals and the hated White Sox, the closest thing we have to true rivals in back to back series...this has taken us from from several games up on the White Sox to several games back because while we've lost 6 in a row, they've won quite a few in a row. It has also killed some of my interest in their season. No team should have the starting pitching we have and be under .500. Our starters went on a stretch of 44 and 1/3 innings without giving up a run. I happened to go to the park for a double header in that stretch. Both starters of the games I saw pitched 9 shut out innings...we only won one of the games. Which leads me to ask...WTF? I did, however, witness in person the 14th unassisted triple play in MLB history, a fact I'll share with my grandchildren one day.
Last weekend I went with our church's youth group to Pioneer Camp and Retreat Center on Lake Erie in New York. I slept on thin mattresses placed on wooden frames of bunk beds and put in quite a few volunteer hours cleaning up various parts of their camp. All in all it was a great experience (check facebook for pictures).
I've also been on the hunt for a job and a car, both of which cause stress and until today had not been rewarding. As of today, I believe I will be driving home a car on Saturday to call my own. This should be great. Hopefully I won't wait another several weeks before updating this and therefore I'll be able to keep you all posted. I think that I'll be giving in and working at McDonalds for another summer, though. I'm going to go in and demand the hours that I will work tomorrow morning. It is better to be working than to not be working both because I get very bored with nothing to do and because getting paid rather than waiting for a better job seems to be in my best interest. ON the bright side, all the employees and managers who made last summer terrible no longer work at McDonalds. So this summer should be a decent one after all.
That's about all I feel like posting tonight. My next post should be slightly less informative and quite a bit more enjoyable/amusing whichever the case may be.
May 5, 2008
quick week
This past week went very quickly...unfortunately so has the weekend. Now it is 11:30 and I'm sitting at the computer with about a paragraph done on a 10 page paper due Tuesday. Well, once again, I can say that the weekend was worth the suffering I'll endure yet this evening and tomorrow.
Friday housed the ever exciting tornado warning which forced an audience which had packed Deusenberg recital hall for a sweet senior recital into the basement for nearly 45 minutes and of course some beverage consumption enjoyed with Hitch upon returning to the room from the 7:30 recital at about...9:45.
Saturday housed sleeping in and watching a movie I've now forgotten on ABC Family before a 7:30 orchestra concert which, without a tornado warning, managed to get us back to the room at about 9:45 to begin some more consumption to be enjoyed with Ice Age 2. The scrat steals the show so hardcore in that movie, save for the fabulous broadway style musical number, "Food, Glorious Food!" Great movie. Can't wait for a third to come out shortly after my 24th B-day!
Today housed getting up waaaaay to early (5:30 AM) to leave for Joliet, IL and play two worship services with the trumpet quartet at First Lutheran Church. This was quite the experience as the second service was done mostly in Spanish for the large Hispanic population in that area and neither service saw the trumpets accompanied by organ, so we made things up as we went along. All in all, whe showed the university well and brought home money to eat for the next week. On the drive back, Kristin spotted the Birger-mobile much to our glee. Meghan went cruising on past on her way back to Valparaiso. An CCB concert and a walk out to Fazoli's concluded the fun portion of my meeting and as you can tell by my deciding to post a blog, I've not yet committed to the idea of doing homework...not giving up on the weekend just yet.
Friday housed the ever exciting tornado warning which forced an audience which had packed Deusenberg recital hall for a sweet senior recital into the basement for nearly 45 minutes and of course some beverage consumption enjoyed with Hitch upon returning to the room from the 7:30 recital at about...9:45.
Saturday housed sleeping in and watching a movie I've now forgotten on ABC Family before a 7:30 orchestra concert which, without a tornado warning, managed to get us back to the room at about 9:45 to begin some more consumption to be enjoyed with Ice Age 2. The scrat steals the show so hardcore in that movie, save for the fabulous broadway style musical number, "Food, Glorious Food!" Great movie. Can't wait for a third to come out shortly after my 24th B-day!
Today housed getting up waaaaay to early (5:30 AM) to leave for Joliet, IL and play two worship services with the trumpet quartet at First Lutheran Church. This was quite the experience as the second service was done mostly in Spanish for the large Hispanic population in that area and neither service saw the trumpets accompanied by organ, so we made things up as we went along. All in all, whe showed the university well and brought home money to eat for the next week. On the drive back, Kristin spotted the Birger-mobile much to our glee. Meghan went cruising on past on her way back to Valparaiso. An CCB concert and a walk out to Fazoli's concluded the fun portion of my meeting and as you can tell by my deciding to post a blog, I've not yet committed to the idea of doing homework...not giving up on the weekend just yet.
April 29, 2008
PHENOMINAL weekend, PHENOMINAL
Normally, the best part of a weekend would be copious consumption on a Saturday night, but this past weekend, that wasn't the case...read on to find out the best part of this weekend. Saturday was just a great day in general. Kristin and I had the chance to go miniature golfing with 3 guys I don't have the opportunity to see very often anymore over at Zao Island. I also got some good Mario Kart action in, which is usually a plus. Red Robin for dinner with a mob of people was great too. I highly recommend the Whiskey River BBQ burger if you haven't tried it before. Excellent. Then we headed over to Meghan's for socializing purposes. Pictures were taken and conversation got a little awkward from time to time...but a great night was had by all, but Kyle...haha. What's wrong with that kid? Who just leaves without telling anyone where he was going or saying goodbye? And he did it again on Sunday when he was supposed to go frisbee golfing with us (FYI frisbee golfing was great as well.) Oh, and for all of you who were wondering, yes we made it back ok after leaving Meghan's Saturday night. Haha.
Anyway, on to the best part of the weekend...Chicago with Kristin on Friday. I ditched my guitar class to leave at lunch time to catch a 1PM train to Chicago. That put us into Chicago at around 2:30. The weather was pretty amazing. Much better than our last fun trip there where we both had to wear jackets and were still cold. We walked through Millenium Park and took pictures at the Bean...naturally. One of the shots we took was a kissing shot which I have decided not to subject you all to seeing via facebook, but...it is necessary to mention it here. The reason being: A man with a camera totally seemed to be about to take a picture of us and then said and I quote "OOO...Kissy Kissy...I like!" CREEPY!!! This has of course become a standard joke for the next few days. Moving on, we then headed off to Adler Planetarium for the sweet view of the lake and the skyline. Walking around Adler we realized that a hurricane must have hit Lake Michigan because it was quite wavy and the wind was quite possibly the strongest I've ever felt. It could have easily blown me over had I not been leaning into it and bracing myself the whole time. Sea Gulls were attempting to fly into it and merely floated in the air because it was so stiff.
After that fun we headed back toward Michigan Ave where we walked around looking for Virgin Records which we later found was closed down and no longer there. So...after traversing the entire length of Millenium to the lake on Michigan Ave we turned around and came back to meet Britta for dinner at the Grand Lux Cafe...excellent food. I must say it is very spoiling to get to see Britta 3 days in a row. Our evening closed out wiht a walk around Nordstrom's mall and then a run through a thunderstorm to a Starbucks and then Millenium Station for a ride back to campus.
Upon getting back to campus, we called Brett who was in town by this time and met him as well as Kyle at Duffy's. This was of course a good time and had some funny story lines, but they'd be difficult to explain to people who weren't there.
That's about it...except for the large amounts of homework I've now had to do Sunday evening, Monday, and today up to this point to make up for what I didn't accomplish over the weekend.
I'm pretty sure we all need to live in the same area so we can have weekends like this more often.
That is now officially all.
Anyway, on to the best part of the weekend...Chicago with Kristin on Friday. I ditched my guitar class to leave at lunch time to catch a 1PM train to Chicago. That put us into Chicago at around 2:30. The weather was pretty amazing. Much better than our last fun trip there where we both had to wear jackets and were still cold. We walked through Millenium Park and took pictures at the Bean...naturally. One of the shots we took was a kissing shot which I have decided not to subject you all to seeing via facebook, but...it is necessary to mention it here. The reason being: A man with a camera totally seemed to be about to take a picture of us and then said and I quote "OOO...Kissy Kissy...I like!" CREEPY!!! This has of course become a standard joke for the next few days. Moving on, we then headed off to Adler Planetarium for the sweet view of the lake and the skyline. Walking around Adler we realized that a hurricane must have hit Lake Michigan because it was quite wavy and the wind was quite possibly the strongest I've ever felt. It could have easily blown me over had I not been leaning into it and bracing myself the whole time. Sea Gulls were attempting to fly into it and merely floated in the air because it was so stiff.
After that fun we headed back toward Michigan Ave where we walked around looking for Virgin Records which we later found was closed down and no longer there. So...after traversing the entire length of Millenium to the lake on Michigan Ave we turned around and came back to meet Britta for dinner at the Grand Lux Cafe...excellent food. I must say it is very spoiling to get to see Britta 3 days in a row. Our evening closed out wiht a walk around Nordstrom's mall and then a run through a thunderstorm to a Starbucks and then Millenium Station for a ride back to campus.
Upon getting back to campus, we called Brett who was in town by this time and met him as well as Kyle at Duffy's. This was of course a good time and had some funny story lines, but they'd be difficult to explain to people who weren't there.
That's about it...except for the large amounts of homework I've now had to do Sunday evening, Monday, and today up to this point to make up for what I didn't accomplish over the weekend.
I'm pretty sure we all need to live in the same area so we can have weekends like this more often.
That is now officially all.
April 16, 2008
bye bye daisy!!!
I realize this is a bit late, but I am still celebrating at Daisy's removal from Rock of Love II. I watched on Sunday night. It was an amusing finale between Daisy puking over the side of the boat on her date and Bret's comment that having sex with Ambre was going to be their "moment of truth." Glad to see he finally admitted that all the show was for was to determine two hot girls and choose between them based on sex. Also, Ambre's date was way better than Daisy's...so I'm pretty sure he'd already decided. I mean, come on. Which would you choose? A romantic boat ride down a private river to a massage right by a waterfall? Or...a day out on a boat in the hot sun fishing? Perhaps there was going to be more to Daisy's date had she not thrown up...but still. All in all, the girl I wanted kicked off for about 3 weeks now finally got kicked off, so all is good.
The Indians are absolutely sucking it up to start this MLB season, and I must say that I'm not pleased. Joe Borowsky needs to stop blowing saves and we basically need to start living up to our potential.
I played for the Musica Viva that was held yesterday and my Aunt and Uncle received very positive comments about my performance from 4 of the music faculty, so it must have gone rather well. My lesson instructor was able to get in just in time for it, so he also complimented me on the performance, though he said that he should have had me close the curtains upstairs in Deusenburg before playing because I shocked some people and got a bit loud. I personally take this as high praise and he said he liked it and just thought others may have found it a bit much.
I've had Spinal Tap checked out of the library for about 2 1/2 weeks now and still am yet to watch it, much to the chagrin of my guitar instructor who was thrilled to learn I planned to watch it. I am, however, enjoying playing the Beatles and John Denver tunes in that class, good times good times.
DSSotD: Making a return...
People should not name their children after flowers because then they are bound to grow up to become tatooed sex objects who tap their spines to a loud, musical rhythm similar to that of the Beatles when they performed in Denver for a crowd of Indians, only to find out the Tribe were losers headed up by Joe Borowsky.
That is all.
The Indians are absolutely sucking it up to start this MLB season, and I must say that I'm not pleased. Joe Borowsky needs to stop blowing saves and we basically need to start living up to our potential.
I played for the Musica Viva that was held yesterday and my Aunt and Uncle received very positive comments about my performance from 4 of the music faculty, so it must have gone rather well. My lesson instructor was able to get in just in time for it, so he also complimented me on the performance, though he said that he should have had me close the curtains upstairs in Deusenburg before playing because I shocked some people and got a bit loud. I personally take this as high praise and he said he liked it and just thought others may have found it a bit much.
I've had Spinal Tap checked out of the library for about 2 1/2 weeks now and still am yet to watch it, much to the chagrin of my guitar instructor who was thrilled to learn I planned to watch it. I am, however, enjoying playing the Beatles and John Denver tunes in that class, good times good times.
DSSotD: Making a return...
People should not name their children after flowers because then they are bound to grow up to become tatooed sex objects who tap their spines to a loud, musical rhythm similar to that of the Beatles when they performed in Denver for a crowd of Indians, only to find out the Tribe were losers headed up by Joe Borowsky.
That is all.
April 13, 2008
Finale
You will all be glad to know, I'm sure, that I have now finished my homework and am planning on catching the second showing of the Rock of Love II Finale. Bret had best pick Daisy to send home, I've been wanting her off the show for the past 3-4 episodes. I'm really not sure what to expect from this one with them being in Cancun and all.
Update on the homework...it was just as boring as ever, and quite the let-down after a phenominal weekend. I'm very glad it is done.
Update on the homework...it was just as boring as ever, and quite the let-down after a phenominal weekend. I'm very glad it is done.
Procrastination is the root of all evil
First off, no, this is not from the show mentioned in an earlier blog. Though that show is funny, there hasn't been another new episode and won't be 'til Wednesday night.
No, this post is simply in regards to the paper I should have written, the book I should have read for this paper, and the dictation I should have done for Musicianship. I would have done this, but instead I was busy having a great weekend. I hit up the SAI formal as Kristin's date, naturally, on Friday night. That was a lot of fun. Making fools of ourselves with our inability to dance and just being silly for a good time. Plus, who doesn't like dressing up and spending time with their bf/gf? Then Saturday I slept in and went to CJ's Bass recital. When evening came along Kristin and I had an extended double date with her big and boyfriend. We played rock band, made jokes, ate M&M's in popcorn, and watched The Pacifier. Nice day. Then even today, the procrastination continued with a good old fashioned trip over to my uncle's to eat real food and have ice cream stuffed down our throats. All in all, this weekend was just what the doctor ordered, until now...the moment where the procrastination catches up and the rest of my day will be spent doing homework, sigh. Was it worth it? You bet it was, but that doesn't make doing the work any less crappy and boring.
On a side note...it's about time the Tribe starts winning some games...4 and 7 is inexcusable for a team with this talent. Joe Borowsky needs to stop blowing at the closer position and we need a less anemic offense and we'll be in business. Meanwhile, the frickin' Cardinals are doing just fine...sigh...the world is in a backward state and must be reversed.
That is all.
No, this post is simply in regards to the paper I should have written, the book I should have read for this paper, and the dictation I should have done for Musicianship. I would have done this, but instead I was busy having a great weekend. I hit up the SAI formal as Kristin's date, naturally, on Friday night. That was a lot of fun. Making fools of ourselves with our inability to dance and just being silly for a good time. Plus, who doesn't like dressing up and spending time with their bf/gf? Then Saturday I slept in and went to CJ's Bass recital. When evening came along Kristin and I had an extended double date with her big and boyfriend. We played rock band, made jokes, ate M&M's in popcorn, and watched The Pacifier. Nice day. Then even today, the procrastination continued with a good old fashioned trip over to my uncle's to eat real food and have ice cream stuffed down our throats. All in all, this weekend was just what the doctor ordered, until now...the moment where the procrastination catches up and the rest of my day will be spent doing homework, sigh. Was it worth it? You bet it was, but that doesn't make doing the work any less crappy and boring.
On a side note...it's about time the Tribe starts winning some games...4 and 7 is inexcusable for a team with this talent. Joe Borowsky needs to stop blowing at the closer position and we need a less anemic offense and we'll be in business. Meanwhile, the frickin' Cardinals are doing just fine...sigh...the world is in a backward state and must be reversed.
That is all.
April 9, 2008
Youtube is the root of all evil
Yes, it's true. Lewis Black's new show "The Root of All Evil" is definitely worth watching. It is hilarious. New episode tonight on Comedy Central. The last episode was YouTube vs Porn.
Well, on another note, I barely have classes tomorrow, so you know what that means. Yes, recreational activities will be had tonight and it will probably get late. Planning on watching Dan in Real Life (thanks go out to Meghan) and the Root of All Evil. Should be a good night.
Well, on another note, I barely have classes tomorrow, so you know what that means. Yes, recreational activities will be had tonight and it will probably get late. Planning on watching Dan in Real Life (thanks go out to Meghan) and the Root of All Evil. Should be a good night.
April 8, 2008
wow, VU, wow
So I spent the better part of an hour just now attempting to print off 17 pages for my School Music class. "Why did it take this long?" you may ask. Well, it took this long because Valparaiso University does not feel it is necessary to have any computer lab on campus from which I can actually print my materials. I ran into everything from printers not being able to process my job, to just deciding to not even register I had tried to print anything to being completely out of paper or ink. I tried 1st, 3rd, and 4th floor labs and multiple computers in each in the library. I tried multiple computers in the Union's Guild 24 hour lounge. I tried multiple computers in the Guild/Memorial computer lab. And now, since I actually have to have this assignment in hand in about 30 minutes, I'm back in my room printing it off here. Thank you VU for wasting an hour of my life and 17 pages of my paper when I supposedly have 500 pages to my name from you. This is awesome and really how I wanted to spend a day where I was exhausted from lack of sleep. Man am I glad I have another year of your BS VU, I'm not sure how I'd live with functioning electronic equipment.
In happier news, I have to report I watched several more episodes of Sunny in Philadelphia last night and that I'm still hooked on that show being hilarious. I've also watched the latest episode of Rock of Love II. How the heck is Daisy one of the final two contestants...anyone...anyone? I can't really complain that Destiny is gone, but Daisy....honestly?
Also, I've eaten Taco Bell for lunch and can therefore look forward to my stomach being very loud in my afternoon class, which is always a joy...ya know, being "that kid."
That is all, no time for the DSSotD, hopefully I'll get back to those soon.
In happier news, I have to report I watched several more episodes of Sunny in Philadelphia last night and that I'm still hooked on that show being hilarious. I've also watched the latest episode of Rock of Love II. How the heck is Daisy one of the final two contestants...anyone...anyone? I can't really complain that Destiny is gone, but Daisy....honestly?
Also, I've eaten Taco Bell for lunch and can therefore look forward to my stomach being very loud in my afternoon class, which is always a joy...ya know, being "that kid."
That is all, no time for the DSSotD, hopefully I'll get back to those soon.
April 3, 2008
another uneventful day
Yeah, so I'd post blogs more often if interesting things happen at Valpo. But people who would happen upon this blog understand what Valpo is like, so I guess I have nothing to worry about.
Two exciting things happened today. I went to Taco Bell and the temperature broke 50 with sun. Today was pretty much the best day in the past week, had I not been inches from sleep all day.
On a side note, Music History reminded me today how much better musicals are in person than on DVD or VHS. Poor video quality from the 1950's can't match having a live pit orchestra and real people on stage.
Unfortunately, that is all for today.
Two exciting things happened today. I went to Taco Bell and the temperature broke 50 with sun. Today was pretty much the best day in the past week, had I not been inches from sleep all day.
On a side note, Music History reminded me today how much better musicals are in person than on DVD or VHS. Poor video quality from the 1950's can't match having a live pit orchestra and real people on stage.
Unfortunately, that is all for today.
March 28, 2008
Rock of Love II
Yeah, I watched that show last night. I'm not sure how it will affect me today, but last night it turned my mind toward the gutter for the remainder of the evening. He's not picking a girl for an emotional connection. Sure his heart feels something for her (his heart in his pants that is). Also, I guess when you are famous you are permitted to stare at a girl's rack while holding a "serious" conversation with her to find out more about her.
Side note: I've been to a bar the last three nights in a row, and might very well make it 4 tonight...alcoholic? You be the judge.
My bracket is shot to hell, but who really cares? Duke lost, UConn lost, that's good enough for me. Go Badgers, win it all!
I must be off to class so That is All.
Side note: I've been to a bar the last three nights in a row, and might very well make it 4 tonight...alcoholic? You be the judge.
My bracket is shot to hell, but who really cares? Duke lost, UConn lost, that's good enough for me. Go Badgers, win it all!
I must be off to class so That is All.
March 24, 2008
activity-ish day
So...my plea for an activity was answered by my good friend Meghan today. Though we didn't play basketball or go frisbee golfing, we did watch Sunny in Philadelphia and laugh quite a bit.
In other news, can I just say that my brackets have all been shot to hell, yet I am still in the lead in one of my pools. How does that happen? One of my regions is completely shot and a championship game pick has been eliminated. It was a great start to the tournament, though. I'll take Duke, UConn, and Georgetown losing as a reward for my bracket sucking. I am proud of myself for picking Villanova as a Sweet 16 team.
My apologies on the lack of updates on the race for the democratic nomination or political sex scandals. I seem to have fallen back into my general trend of not keeping current on the news since returning to school. Perhaps I'll drudge up something for you soon.
Catching up on sleep was a must after this past weekend so I hit the hay at around 11:30 last night and slept 'til nearly 9 and it felt great. I was totally with it today and took care of several items on the planner I'm attempting to start using. Now I just need to email a bunch of band directors with interview questions about how to run a marching band program...sigh, what a joy.
DSSotD:
What do you do when your bracket is shot to hell? Well that's easy: plan an activity day involving political sex scandals, marching band, sleep, frisbee golfing, and basketball in Sunny Philadelphia!
That is all.
In other news, can I just say that my brackets have all been shot to hell, yet I am still in the lead in one of my pools. How does that happen? One of my regions is completely shot and a championship game pick has been eliminated. It was a great start to the tournament, though. I'll take Duke, UConn, and Georgetown losing as a reward for my bracket sucking. I am proud of myself for picking Villanova as a Sweet 16 team.
My apologies on the lack of updates on the race for the democratic nomination or political sex scandals. I seem to have fallen back into my general trend of not keeping current on the news since returning to school. Perhaps I'll drudge up something for you soon.
Catching up on sleep was a must after this past weekend so I hit the hay at around 11:30 last night and slept 'til nearly 9 and it felt great. I was totally with it today and took care of several items on the planner I'm attempting to start using. Now I just need to email a bunch of band directors with interview questions about how to run a marching band program...sigh, what a joy.
DSSotD:
What do you do when your bracket is shot to hell? Well that's easy: plan an activity day involving political sex scandals, marching band, sleep, frisbee golfing, and basketball in Sunny Philadelphia!
That is all.
morning blog
This is just a check in blog since I dropped the ball on updates last week. The week was very hectic and busy and the blog was the last thing on my mind.
I played an Easter gig yesterday and made 120 bucks. Can't complain about that. It did deprive me of sleep to attend the 9 am rehearsal Saturday and 7:30 call time on Sunday morning. I did not adjust my bed time appropriately so I caught up last night with 9 hours and it feels good.
Frisbee golf has been on my mind for a while and I'm really hoping to have a warm, sunny day to go out and get that taken care of. I miss basketball with Meghan and Brett over at the ARC. I need my activity days back.
That's about all, longer blog to come soon.
I played an Easter gig yesterday and made 120 bucks. Can't complain about that. It did deprive me of sleep to attend the 9 am rehearsal Saturday and 7:30 call time on Sunday morning. I did not adjust my bed time appropriately so I caught up last night with 9 hours and it feels good.
Frisbee golf has been on my mind for a while and I'm really hoping to have a warm, sunny day to go out and get that taken care of. I miss basketball with Meghan and Brett over at the ARC. I need my activity days back.
That's about all, longer blog to come soon.
March 15, 2008
Bowling
I went bowling today, as the title would suggest. This was the first time I had been bowling in the real sense rather than on Wii in at least 2 years. I sucked it up in the first game winding up with only a 109, and having to spare and strike in the 10th to pull even that off. The second game started rather miserably as well, but then I managed to get marks in the last 5ish frames in a row for a total of 138 which is more respectable for my only going out once in a long while. It was fun, but my shoes didn't slide on one of the throws and my left quadracep feels that moment of discomfort even now, 7 hours later.
On to a sport that matters, NCAA Basketball. The Big Ten Tourney disappointed yesterday as 50 seconds of horrific officiating quite possibly knocked the Buckeyes out of the NCAA Tournament. In 50 seconds, 4 fouls were called on the Bucks and a technical. One of those fouls was remotely justifiable. Three of the fouls were called on one, just one, of our players. And we lost by within one point of the points given to Michigan State in those 50 seconds. The technical was called on a Buckeye player who yelled "Oh no!" at the official for calling a very weak foul on a shot attempt down low. That play alone cost the Bucks 2 technical free throws, and two at the line for the bull**** foul, all of which were made. That just made me sick. Always nice to have officiating comparable to that of the Mid-Con or Horizon show up in Big Ten tournament games and within 50 seconds determine a team's potential birth into the big dance.
I head back to school tomorrow, I look forward to the remainder of the semester, but I can never quite say I'm ready to go back. This has been a relaxing break and I could use a few more days of sleeping in and doing no work.
DSSotD:
Never trust a Mid-Con or Horizon bowling official to take care of a Big Ten Tourney game or the result will have you pulling your left quad while MSU goes back to school at The Ohio State University to learn how to dance with the stars.
On to a sport that matters, NCAA Basketball. The Big Ten Tourney disappointed yesterday as 50 seconds of horrific officiating quite possibly knocked the Buckeyes out of the NCAA Tournament. In 50 seconds, 4 fouls were called on the Bucks and a technical. One of those fouls was remotely justifiable. Three of the fouls were called on one, just one, of our players. And we lost by within one point of the points given to Michigan State in those 50 seconds. The technical was called on a Buckeye player who yelled "Oh no!" at the official for calling a very weak foul on a shot attempt down low. That play alone cost the Bucks 2 technical free throws, and two at the line for the bull**** foul, all of which were made. That just made me sick. Always nice to have officiating comparable to that of the Mid-Con or Horizon show up in Big Ten tournament games and within 50 seconds determine a team's potential birth into the big dance.
I head back to school tomorrow, I look forward to the remainder of the semester, but I can never quite say I'm ready to go back. This has been a relaxing break and I could use a few more days of sleeping in and doing no work.
DSSotD:
Never trust a Mid-Con or Horizon bowling official to take care of a Big Ten Tourney game or the result will have you pulling your left quad while MSU goes back to school at The Ohio State University to learn how to dance with the stars.
March 13, 2008
snow and stop signs
Today was relatively uneventful. I did some errands with my mom as well as driving Sarah to school this morning. We hit up Pizza Hut for dinner, which was a wonderful choice I might add.
The real fun did not begin until I took a walk with Jeremiah. We enjoy night walks, and though I did not particularly feel like walking, the temperature was nice and I'll be leaving soon, so I felt I should go when he called to ask(nice run on sentence). It's very odd to have the temperature be 50 and still have 10-12" of snow on the ground, but it is also very entertaining. Our walk turned into something of a contest. We decided to see how far away from a stop sign we could be and still drill it with a snow ball. I'm not entirely certain you are supposed to do this and doing it in the middle of a suburban neighborhood made it all the more fun. We attempted this at every stop sign we passed which added up to about 6-10. I found that it's been too long since I've played softball, I was consistantly off by about 12" left from the 25ish foot range. And of course, if there are snow balls being thrown, it has to turn into a fight when a 12 year old is involved...yeah, and an immature 22 year old as well.
On a side note, not that I can really call myself a NBA fan, but...I watched the end of the Cavs game tonight, and Lebron totally ruined our chance at winning with a bricked three, charging call and wasted final posession resulting in another bricked three when a two would have tied the game. 7 seconds left on the clock and your ability to drive to the hole and you don't do it down by two? WTF mate?
DSSotD:
After a loss like tonight falls on Lebron's shoulders, someone should really start a snowball fight with him throwing from about 25ish feet inside a Pizza Hut rather than letting their day be uneventful.
The real fun did not begin until I took a walk with Jeremiah. We enjoy night walks, and though I did not particularly feel like walking, the temperature was nice and I'll be leaving soon, so I felt I should go when he called to ask(nice run on sentence). It's very odd to have the temperature be 50 and still have 10-12" of snow on the ground, but it is also very entertaining. Our walk turned into something of a contest. We decided to see how far away from a stop sign we could be and still drill it with a snow ball. I'm not entirely certain you are supposed to do this and doing it in the middle of a suburban neighborhood made it all the more fun. We attempted this at every stop sign we passed which added up to about 6-10. I found that it's been too long since I've played softball, I was consistantly off by about 12" left from the 25ish foot range. And of course, if there are snow balls being thrown, it has to turn into a fight when a 12 year old is involved...yeah, and an immature 22 year old as well.
On a side note, not that I can really call myself a NBA fan, but...I watched the end of the Cavs game tonight, and Lebron totally ruined our chance at winning with a bricked three, charging call and wasted final posession resulting in another bricked three when a two would have tied the game. 7 seconds left on the clock and your ability to drive to the hole and you don't do it down by two? WTF mate?
DSSotD:
After a loss like tonight falls on Lebron's shoulders, someone should really start a snowball fight with him throwing from about 25ish feet inside a Pizza Hut rather than letting their day be uneventful.
March 12, 2008
resignation
NY Gov resigned, that's good. He'd better have after what he pulled. I doubt his "sincerest apologies" however. The apology lasted less than 3 minutes, but as Leno said, he had to pay for the full hour.
On another note entirely, our church organist has no sense of rhythm and it drives me up a wall. AND, I can't sing a hymn if you don't give me a chance to breathe, it's all fine and good that you dont' have to, but I do! Church was frustrating this evenign due to him being worse than usual.
That is all, boring day.
On another note entirely, our church organist has no sense of rhythm and it drives me up a wall. AND, I can't sing a hymn if you don't give me a chance to breathe, it's all fine and good that you dont' have to, but I do! Church was frustrating this evenign due to him being worse than usual.
That is all, boring day.
WTF NY
So...getting my news from CNN and Jay Leno...WTF Gov? 80,000 on prostitutes...you know how much other stuff that is worthwhile that could buy you? Also...5,000 an hour is the pay? I'd get in on that...and all expenses paid mini-bar, lodging, transportation. I didn't know there was such a high class ring.
On another note, I'm proud of Valpo for making some air time during the Horizon League Tourney Championship coverage this evening. Valpo makes the Horizon look better according to ESPN, darn right it does. We were one of 4 teams to break 20 wins in the league this season, a new league record. I think all in all, and considering our team getting sick, it was a good first year in the league.
I hit up a sixth grade all star band concert for my nephew Jeremiah who played trumpet in it. Life is not the same now that I'm this far into the world of music education though. I saw mistakes in technique of students and conductors alike. Stand heights were atrocious. Enough on that though. It was a good concert for people who have been playing instruments for 20 months.
DSSotD:
Prostitutes who cost 5000 an hour should play an instrument or something, or at least be part of a twenty game winner for some air time on CNN, ESPN, or Leno's show.
On another note, I'm proud of Valpo for making some air time during the Horizon League Tourney Championship coverage this evening. Valpo makes the Horizon look better according to ESPN, darn right it does. We were one of 4 teams to break 20 wins in the league this season, a new league record. I think all in all, and considering our team getting sick, it was a good first year in the league.
I hit up a sixth grade all star band concert for my nephew Jeremiah who played trumpet in it. Life is not the same now that I'm this far into the world of music education though. I saw mistakes in technique of students and conductors alike. Stand heights were atrocious. Enough on that though. It was a good concert for people who have been playing instruments for 20 months.
DSSotD:
Prostitutes who cost 5000 an hour should play an instrument or something, or at least be part of a twenty game winner for some air time on CNN, ESPN, or Leno's show.
March 11, 2008
not sure how to put this
I've just come off of a disastrous night last night, but I think I'm on the rebound. Things are on the up and up. I came into 3 Cavs tickets at about 4ish today for tonight's 7 o'clock game so naturally I found two people and we went and watched from the 35 dollar seats. It is definitely a different Cavs team than it was 6ish years ago when I last saw a game. Even the name of the arena has changed since then. The uniforms are different and we've added Lebron James (who had a triple double tonight). I must say that Wally (screw spelling his last name) is not worth his weight in gold, but I was impressed with the ever healthier Verajou. He played a heck of a game as did Joe Smith to back up Lebron.
And of course, what evening is complete in Cleveland without a stop at Becky's...pretty darn good potato skins.
That is all....nothing much outside of the game happened today and this is not the place for the other subject matter.
And of course, what evening is complete in Cleveland without a stop at Becky's...pretty darn good potato skins.
That is all....nothing much outside of the game happened today and this is not the place for the other subject matter.
March 8, 2008
Blizzard '08
Today was easily the nastiest snow storm I have seen around these parts since we got 5 feet of snow in 4 days my 6th grade year. We got about two feet of snow and as far as I know, it is still coming down out there. I was outside twice today snow-blowing our driveway and my sister's driveway and it was tough going both times. The extra shoveling I had to do for sidewalks and hard to hit places was such that I'm certain I'll be stiff tomorrow. Seeing the dogs hopping through it was quite fun. I'm sure it was funny to see me trying to run and not being able to lift my feet and therefore falling flat on my face. Tomorrow will definitely be a good time to have snow ball fights and such.
Didn't have time to watch CNN today, kept busy with other things, so no updates on my enjoyment of the democratic primary.
I give Valpo some credit, we made it further into the Horizon League Tourney than I expected. Semi-finals loss to a well rested CSU isn't too bad. However, I do have a beef with the set-up of the tournament. Where do you get off forcing us to play back to back games while the top two seeds have been resting for over a week? That is ridiculous. Why don't they simply have a Horizon Championship game isntead of pretending that it is a tournament, cause that's what it ends up as anyway. Also...why do we have pre-NCAA tournament tournaments anyway? Every conference has a tournament...then what did the regular season mean. I suppose that is the only angle from which the Horizon League's system approaches making sense. However, that is not the answer either. Some of the conference tournaments don't even end until it is too late to adjust the real brackets for teh NCAA anyway, so WTF? One final comment in the sports realm...Homer...why did Lloyd see the floor at the end of tonight's game? That is all.
DSSotD:
In the midst of Blizzard '08, why not snow blow Lloyd into the face of the Horizon League officials; they just might fall flat on their face in 2 feet of "Monster" primaries.
Didn't have time to watch CNN today, kept busy with other things, so no updates on my enjoyment of the democratic primary.
I give Valpo some credit, we made it further into the Horizon League Tourney than I expected. Semi-finals loss to a well rested CSU isn't too bad. However, I do have a beef with the set-up of the tournament. Where do you get off forcing us to play back to back games while the top two seeds have been resting for over a week? That is ridiculous. Why don't they simply have a Horizon Championship game isntead of pretending that it is a tournament, cause that's what it ends up as anyway. Also...why do we have pre-NCAA tournament tournaments anyway? Every conference has a tournament...then what did the regular season mean. I suppose that is the only angle from which the Horizon League's system approaches making sense. However, that is not the answer either. Some of the conference tournaments don't even end until it is too late to adjust the real brackets for teh NCAA anyway, so WTF? One final comment in the sports realm...Homer...why did Lloyd see the floor at the end of tonight's game? That is all.
DSSotD:
In the midst of Blizzard '08, why not snow blow Lloyd into the face of the Horizon League officials; they just might fall flat on their face in 2 feet of "Monster" primaries.
March 7, 2008
five blades
I used to be a doubter, but now I believe. More blades is better on razors. My five bladed razor which I use at school is far superior to the three bladed one I am reduced to at home. I have experienced a marked improvement in # of times shaven per week since using the five blader. In fact, I have not had a shave since coming home for spring break which was over a week ago, this is sad, and I look the part of the man wearing these jeans and this flannel shirt today.
Another update on the primaries. CNN was reporting that one of Obama's top advisors called Clinton "a Monster" (which she is), but the advisor forgot to say off the record and therefore she has now resigned and Obama has denounced this statement. Hilarious. They just don't know when to stop...it's so sickening that I've been reduced to finding the amusement in it.
The weather around here is no better than it was in Valpo, case closed. A projected 12-20" of snow will have fallen here before tomorrow is through, we're alerady 6ish inches on our way...what a nightmare, I'm very glad I don't have to be traveling. This will provide prime sledding and snowman-making conditions for tomorrow and Sunday, however. So...as an irresponsible 22yr old, I must admit I'm somewhat excited.
DSSotD:
Perhaps if Hillary decided to shave with a five bladed razor rather than a three bladed one, she would not be perceived as "a Monster" by Obama's campaign advisors through the heavily falling snow in Valpo, but I doubt it.
Another update on the primaries. CNN was reporting that one of Obama's top advisors called Clinton "a Monster" (which she is), but the advisor forgot to say off the record and therefore she has now resigned and Obama has denounced this statement. Hilarious. They just don't know when to stop...it's so sickening that I've been reduced to finding the amusement in it.
The weather around here is no better than it was in Valpo, case closed. A projected 12-20" of snow will have fallen here before tomorrow is through, we're alerady 6ish inches on our way...what a nightmare, I'm very glad I don't have to be traveling. This will provide prime sledding and snowman-making conditions for tomorrow and Sunday, however. So...as an irresponsible 22yr old, I must admit I'm somewhat excited.
DSSotD:
Perhaps if Hillary decided to shave with a five bladed razor rather than a three bladed one, she would not be perceived as "a Monster" by Obama's campaign advisors through the heavily falling snow in Valpo, but I doubt it.
March 6, 2008
CNN is hilarious
So, I was watching the news tonight, odd thing for me to be doing, but that's beside the point. This whole thing with MI and FL democratic primary votes not counting is quite funny. The fact that CNN's anchorman was trying to bash FL's governer for making the statement that democracy is more important than what the DNC or RNC think made my day. What were you expecting to happen when you moved up your primary date? ... Oh, I thought all my state's votes wouldn't count because of some stupid technicality in party convention rules. What the heck was he supposed to say?
In other news, I was excited to see that OSU topped Purdue yesterday in a thriller. Always nice to play the spoiler when you aren't good enough to be important in any other rite. Also, why are we previewing the Duke-UNC game the entire week before it happens. This isn't the national championship and it really only needs to concern the ACC and North Carolinians.
I'm getting old...in retrospect, it may not have been the wisest thing to spend 3-4 hours hiking around in that snowy valley in boots yesterday. Snow boots are not made for lots of hiking on uneven and wet terrain. My calves are very sore today and I am, in general, more tired that I should be. It was worth it though, lots of fun and let's be honest, what do I have to do for the next week? All I did today was some set-up work at my church and some ping pong with my nephew and that doesn't take a limber body.
DSSotD:
Always watch CNN for updates on ACC games you don't care about featuring Duke and UNC battling it out in the Boot Wearing Ping Pong Championships hosted by Dickie V, unless you live in FL or MI, cause there you don't count.
In other news, I was excited to see that OSU topped Purdue yesterday in a thriller. Always nice to play the spoiler when you aren't good enough to be important in any other rite. Also, why are we previewing the Duke-UNC game the entire week before it happens. This isn't the national championship and it really only needs to concern the ACC and North Carolinians.
I'm getting old...in retrospect, it may not have been the wisest thing to spend 3-4 hours hiking around in that snowy valley in boots yesterday. Snow boots are not made for lots of hiking on uneven and wet terrain. My calves are very sore today and I am, in general, more tired that I should be. It was worth it though, lots of fun and let's be honest, what do I have to do for the next week? All I did today was some set-up work at my church and some ping pong with my nephew and that doesn't take a limber body.
DSSotD:
Always watch CNN for updates on ACC games you don't care about featuring Duke and UNC battling it out in the Boot Wearing Ping Pong Championships hosted by Dickie V, unless you live in FL or MI, cause there you don't count.
March 5, 2008
spring break
Most people are excited when they go to someplace warm for break. This is also true for me, but I'll make the best of my current circumstances, I had one day over 65 degrees...that was nice. I've been up to the lake twice, no swimming though, of course. I've also taken a hike in a snowy valley, which was a lot of fun and I'll post some pictures on facebook when back at school where my cord is.
This relaxation was much needed. Midterms will sure take something out of you. And now, I finaly don't have to listen to people discuss where they are going to live next year anymore. Almost all the details on that subject have been decided. Now I can just kick back and exhaust myself physically rather than emotionally and mentally.
While in that valley mentioned in my first paragraph, I managed to drench my foot, through boots. This is not an easy feet (spelling and pun intended). In order to reach our destination ( a big and gorgeous waterfall with all the flood water we've got around here), we had to brave crossing a stream which does not exist when the water level is relatively normal. This involved walking through about 4" deep racing (and freezing) water. We were the only people dumb enough to go down into the valley today as evidenced by the lack of any tracks down there. Exhaustion clears the mind, and 200ish steps after 2+ hours trapsing around a river bed will provide exhaustion on a cold day.
Dave's silly summary of the day will return when Dave has a more interesting post.
This relaxation was much needed. Midterms will sure take something out of you. And now, I finaly don't have to listen to people discuss where they are going to live next year anymore. Almost all the details on that subject have been decided. Now I can just kick back and exhaust myself physically rather than emotionally and mentally.
While in that valley mentioned in my first paragraph, I managed to drench my foot, through boots. This is not an easy feet (spelling and pun intended). In order to reach our destination ( a big and gorgeous waterfall with all the flood water we've got around here), we had to brave crossing a stream which does not exist when the water level is relatively normal. This involved walking through about 4" deep racing (and freezing) water. We were the only people dumb enough to go down into the valley today as evidenced by the lack of any tracks down there. Exhaustion clears the mind, and 200ish steps after 2+ hours trapsing around a river bed will provide exhaustion on a cold day.
Dave's silly summary of the day will return when Dave has a more interesting post.
February 27, 2008
Chicago
So...went to the Lyric Opera today to see Eugene Onegin by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was a fantastic way to spend a day in Chicago and take in a marvelous 3 hours of Romantic Era Chromaticism. I recieved the offer to go at 11:15 and boarded a charter bus leaving for Chi-Town at 11:30, nothing like last minute decision making and a free 3 hours of entertainment. How weird is a plot which ends with the two lovers not being together and not being dead in a Shakesperian fashion either? The woodwinds and horn were absolutely phenominal as well as the bass and lead woman.
I noted while watching the super-titles that opera moves extremely slowly, as I already knew from years ago, but that I am also capable of understanding the underlying thematic musical development as it applies to the libretto. 5 minutes were taken to ponder how two men who were once best friends could be dueling to the death in a somber and moving duet. However, equally "silly" was the aria during which day turned to night and back to day in the span of about 7 minutes. It is great to listen to something and realize that 5 years of education has not been for nothing, but rather that I have learned much, maybe I am actually becoming prepared to enter the professional career path I have chosen.
Other important news from that trip includes:
Starbucks tastes better in Chicago.
Coach buses are capable of making U-turns on an interstate when bus drivers miss exits while on their cell phones.
Valparaiso students are content with lunch at McDonalds while in Chicago for 50 minutes prior to taking in something as high brow as an opera (a fact which I greeted with much disdain on my walk to Starbucks).
Appropriate dress to the Lyric includes, but is not limited to, jeans and a t-shirt, Suit and Tie, a tuxedo, jeans with sportcoat and turtleneck, and even a rather fancy gown and waaaayyyy too much perfume.
That is all.
DSSotD:
When confronted with the need to pull a U-ey on the interstate, ponder a comparison between Starbucks and McDonalds to a somber tune for at least 5 minutes, but dress however you wish.
I noted while watching the super-titles that opera moves extremely slowly, as I already knew from years ago, but that I am also capable of understanding the underlying thematic musical development as it applies to the libretto. 5 minutes were taken to ponder how two men who were once best friends could be dueling to the death in a somber and moving duet. However, equally "silly" was the aria during which day turned to night and back to day in the span of about 7 minutes. It is great to listen to something and realize that 5 years of education has not been for nothing, but rather that I have learned much, maybe I am actually becoming prepared to enter the professional career path I have chosen.
Other important news from that trip includes:
Starbucks tastes better in Chicago.
Coach buses are capable of making U-turns on an interstate when bus drivers miss exits while on their cell phones.
Valparaiso students are content with lunch at McDonalds while in Chicago for 50 minutes prior to taking in something as high brow as an opera (a fact which I greeted with much disdain on my walk to Starbucks).
Appropriate dress to the Lyric includes, but is not limited to, jeans and a t-shirt, Suit and Tie, a tuxedo, jeans with sportcoat and turtleneck, and even a rather fancy gown and waaaayyyy too much perfume.
That is all.
DSSotD:
When confronted with the need to pull a U-ey on the interstate, ponder a comparison between Starbucks and McDonalds to a somber tune for at least 5 minutes, but dress however you wish.
early perception
All is well as usual, though it'd be quite nice to begin rising when my alarm goes off. THe past two mornings in a row I have awakened to see the clock saying I have 15 and 20 minutes to get to class respectively. That's pretty ridiculous. Why do I have an internal clock waking me in time to make it to class a little late rather than early enough to actually shower and prepare myself for a day or late enough to decide it's not worth it?
Through a course of events today which I am to tired to outline for you, I spent a bit of time considering whether or not there is any significance to what we perceive as children before our long-term memory developes. Do things that occur to us really have an effect on us if we don't remember them? Are we preconditioned to become what we now are...or are we just born this way? Sigh, I decided after a short bit of deliberation...that this does not matter and I am, in fact, done with CORE and English and therefore should not have to worry about nature vs nurture any longer as it does not pertain to the field of Music Education at the secondary level.
That is all.
DSSotD:
Preconceived notions of Mahler's first symphony have led me to feel like I am in CORE again today. I think it is safe to project that I will once again rise later than planned tomorrow. I think this is like some mathematical proof...
Through a course of events today which I am to tired to outline for you, I spent a bit of time considering whether or not there is any significance to what we perceive as children before our long-term memory developes. Do things that occur to us really have an effect on us if we don't remember them? Are we preconditioned to become what we now are...or are we just born this way? Sigh, I decided after a short bit of deliberation...that this does not matter and I am, in fact, done with CORE and English and therefore should not have to worry about nature vs nurture any longer as it does not pertain to the field of Music Education at the secondary level.
That is all.
DSSotD:
Preconceived notions of Mahler's first symphony have led me to feel like I am in CORE again today. I think it is safe to project that I will once again rise later than planned tomorrow. I think this is like some mathematical proof...
February 20, 2008
business sets in
Yeah, it's been a while since my last post. You would think that means I should have lots to talk about in my blog, wouldn't you? Sorry to dissapoint, nothing much is new on this front. You all know of the joys of the former roomate being in town this past week. Much beverage consumption, rock band, and VU Basketball was had by all. I am a stellar drum set player on medium, just fyi.
Life has gotten busier with a lot of reading and writing for my courses, I read a lot about Gustav Mahler, so if you ever wonder about his history when you listen to his fabulous symphonies (I like them, but doubt the rest of you will ever care)...ask me and I'll fill you in on his life and work. I also designed activities for my high school music students which complete all nine of the national content standard areas, woo hoo...great stuff, I know.
Jimmy John's pong set up to 7 glasses thanks to generous donations and my having gone there another time.
I feel quite old because my niece just uploaded pictures of her going to winter formal at my former high school. I suppose it does not feel like yesterday that I was doing that same thing, but it does feel like she shouldn't be there yet. She looks gorgeous by the way, I am a proud uncle.
My final note for today has to be a report on the most recent embarassment and will go right over the head of many of my readers. I had to sing for Dr. Friesen-Carper (DFC as the music department throng endearingly refer to him as) today to complete a sight singing requirement for a course I'm in. The embarassment ocurred when I realized that I had gotten off key and stopped to awkwardly inform him of this, as if he wasn't aware, before continuing on to actually regain where I was going. I informed my instructor that I made a mistake, which actually resulted in my having gotten a higher grade than if I had just ran with it and kept plowing forward like you are taught to do if you make mistakes in an ensemble or solo performance. Of course, this was a slightly different situation because I was being graded in ear training. Hence, when I made a mistake and noticed it and was able to identify, what it was AND where it happened in the music, he realized that my ear has been well trained. Herein ends the "boring" part of my post for today. However, if I can't post about what I want to say, why have a blog at all, right?
DSSotD:
Who can frown upon a rocking drummer drinking out of his JJ pong set with his gorgeous niece after an embarassing singing experience at the winter formal? What else was he supposed to do? Listen to a symphony by Gustav Mahler? Please!!!
Life has gotten busier with a lot of reading and writing for my courses, I read a lot about Gustav Mahler, so if you ever wonder about his history when you listen to his fabulous symphonies (I like them, but doubt the rest of you will ever care)...ask me and I'll fill you in on his life and work. I also designed activities for my high school music students which complete all nine of the national content standard areas, woo hoo...great stuff, I know.
Jimmy John's pong set up to 7 glasses thanks to generous donations and my having gone there another time.
I feel quite old because my niece just uploaded pictures of her going to winter formal at my former high school. I suppose it does not feel like yesterday that I was doing that same thing, but it does feel like she shouldn't be there yet. She looks gorgeous by the way, I am a proud uncle.
My final note for today has to be a report on the most recent embarassment and will go right over the head of many of my readers. I had to sing for Dr. Friesen-Carper (DFC as the music department throng endearingly refer to him as) today to complete a sight singing requirement for a course I'm in. The embarassment ocurred when I realized that I had gotten off key and stopped to awkwardly inform him of this, as if he wasn't aware, before continuing on to actually regain where I was going. I informed my instructor that I made a mistake, which actually resulted in my having gotten a higher grade than if I had just ran with it and kept plowing forward like you are taught to do if you make mistakes in an ensemble or solo performance. Of course, this was a slightly different situation because I was being graded in ear training. Hence, when I made a mistake and noticed it and was able to identify, what it was AND where it happened in the music, he realized that my ear has been well trained. Herein ends the "boring" part of my post for today. However, if I can't post about what I want to say, why have a blog at all, right?
DSSotD:
Who can frown upon a rocking drummer drinking out of his JJ pong set with his gorgeous niece after an embarassing singing experience at the winter formal? What else was he supposed to do? Listen to a symphony by Gustav Mahler? Please!!!
February 14, 2008
Oh Susanna
No complaints about my day except the amount of sleep I got or didn't get, take your pick. I finally got to have a trumpet quartet rehearsal and I practiced my guitar. I can now play about 8 songs in the strum and sing method, haha. The new trumpet solo is working out quite well. Kristin and I watched Men of Honor tonight...it was a good flick, somewhat slow moving at times perhaps, but it was the right choice for tonight.
Brett's coming into Valpo tomorrow, who else is excited...that's right, we're all excited. It's time for a weekend of drinking, bad basketball, and the pace the room and snap your fingers technique.
And now, quickly, to the main subject at hand. I had the opportunity to watch some Chinese musicians here for a concert being put on tomorrow night rehearsing in Deusenburg Recital Hall today. They were practicing some Chinese cultural music, but then out of nowhere they started playing things like Oh Susanna and Yankee Doodle. A guy who is going to sing with them was asking us the lyrics of Yankee Doodle, haha, quite funny. Hearing instruments such as the Erhu wail away on American folk music was quite hilarious. Tremendously talented musicians, just silly music. It was kind of fun to get to see all these instruments up close. I'm definitely hitting up the Confucious Institute concert in the chapel tomorrow evening to see them perform.
DSSotD:
Men of Honor play Oh Susanna on chinese instruments to celebrate Brett's return to Valparaiso, but I tend to just play the guitar and sing Yankee Doodle so what does that make me?
Brett's coming into Valpo tomorrow, who else is excited...that's right, we're all excited. It's time for a weekend of drinking, bad basketball, and the pace the room and snap your fingers technique.
And now, quickly, to the main subject at hand. I had the opportunity to watch some Chinese musicians here for a concert being put on tomorrow night rehearsing in Deusenburg Recital Hall today. They were practicing some Chinese cultural music, but then out of nowhere they started playing things like Oh Susanna and Yankee Doodle. A guy who is going to sing with them was asking us the lyrics of Yankee Doodle, haha, quite funny. Hearing instruments such as the Erhu wail away on American folk music was quite hilarious. Tremendously talented musicians, just silly music. It was kind of fun to get to see all these instruments up close. I'm definitely hitting up the Confucious Institute concert in the chapel tomorrow evening to see them perform.
DSSotD:
Men of Honor play Oh Susanna on chinese instruments to celebrate Brett's return to Valparaiso, but I tend to just play the guitar and sing Yankee Doodle so what does that make me?
February 13, 2008
puppet up
Today was ok I suppose. The highlight is currently on TV, so this may be a short post.
First though, may I ask...have you ever had a kid in one of your classes anywhere through your current or past schooling who feels it is necessary to tell a story at any possible opportunity during a class discussion, but those stories never relate to anything you've been talking about? Yeah, Mark Macaben is one of those kids. He may be the subject of another blog, so I'll save the content of his useless ramblings so far this semester in my School Music course for that story telling affair. Just a quick plug: join WWFMD on facebook if you aren't already a member of the safe haven for people who hate Mark Macaben.
So, the highlight of my day and the subject of my post is a TV show I just found on TBS called Puppet Up. It is absolutely hilarious. These random people are using puppets to basically do a who's line is it anyway rip-off and can I just say that swearing puppets are a riot?
DSSotD:
When you have a useless story-telling student in your class some day, you should have made a puppet called Mark Macaben to one up their useles story with a "hoe down" involving much swearing.
First though, may I ask...have you ever had a kid in one of your classes anywhere through your current or past schooling who feels it is necessary to tell a story at any possible opportunity during a class discussion, but those stories never relate to anything you've been talking about? Yeah, Mark Macaben is one of those kids. He may be the subject of another blog, so I'll save the content of his useless ramblings so far this semester in my School Music course for that story telling affair. Just a quick plug: join WWFMD on facebook if you aren't already a member of the safe haven for people who hate Mark Macaben.
So, the highlight of my day and the subject of my post is a TV show I just found on TBS called Puppet Up. It is absolutely hilarious. These random people are using puppets to basically do a who's line is it anyway rip-off and can I just say that swearing puppets are a riot?
DSSotD:
When you have a useless story-telling student in your class some day, you should have made a puppet called Mark Macaben to one up their useles story with a "hoe down" involving much swearing.
February 12, 2008
An Old Girlfriend's Not So Bad
Today went fine. One has to wonder why a prospy sits in on a 4th semester musicianship class in a visit to campus, but other than that, my day was rather uneventful. My roomate had his girlfriend in the room for the...as far as I know...second time all year. That was pretty exciting. I began work on a new piece for the trumpet which should be both a challenge and a joy over the next month or two.
But now to the subject. Kristin turned 21 today. Her class schedule was so jammed that true 21st birthday celebration was not available to us until after 11. However, once this time came, we made the best of it and hit up Northsides here in town with a good friend of ours. This was a fun time of socialization and drinking in moderation due to her having an 8am she didn't want to miss in the morning. For the final round, I wanted to get her a Hurricane, but the bartenders didn't even know what goes into that. I've had one, but it's not my job to know what goes into it. They actually started asking around the bar if people know what it was...what the hell? Anyway, what they came up with pretty much tasted like one and was largely just peach schnapps, so...what can you do? I believe Kristin felt she received the proper middle of the week 21st treatment, so all is well.
DSSotD may be less than stellar today because I am exhausted, but here goes:
Ear training learned in musicianship 4 would be very helpful for a prospy student to remember when celebrating their 21st birthday on the Northside of town because if Alan Jackson's Five O'clock Somewhere happened to be played at kareoke, they'd know what pitches to sing the word Hurricane on even after a few too many drinks with their roomate's long lost girlfriend.
But now to the subject. Kristin turned 21 today. Her class schedule was so jammed that true 21st birthday celebration was not available to us until after 11. However, once this time came, we made the best of it and hit up Northsides here in town with a good friend of ours. This was a fun time of socialization and drinking in moderation due to her having an 8am she didn't want to miss in the morning. For the final round, I wanted to get her a Hurricane, but the bartenders didn't even know what goes into that. I've had one, but it's not my job to know what goes into it. They actually started asking around the bar if people know what it was...what the hell? Anyway, what they came up with pretty much tasted like one and was largely just peach schnapps, so...what can you do? I believe Kristin felt she received the proper middle of the week 21st treatment, so all is well.
DSSotD may be less than stellar today because I am exhausted, but here goes:
Ear training learned in musicianship 4 would be very helpful for a prospy student to remember when celebrating their 21st birthday on the Northside of town because if Alan Jackson's Five O'clock Somewhere happened to be played at kareoke, they'd know what pitches to sing the word Hurricane on even after a few too many drinks with their roomate's long lost girlfriend.
February 11, 2008
Bacon v. Chicken
Today was a good day, I attended a phenominal guitar recital put on by my guitar teacher. The final number played was the overture to the Barber of Seville, which always makes me think of the classic Bugs Bunny rendition of this tune. The main melody always brings images of bugs on elmer fudd's head massaging him in the barber shop...hilarious.
Secondly, I watched American Pie, the Naked Mile tonight and if you haven't seen it...don't bother. Jim's dad is the only returning character from the ones that are actually funny.
Finally, down to the title discussion for this evening. As true Chicken and Bacon supporters will know...there is a fierce rivalry between the two meats. They are constantly competing with each other for rule of the most time during the day. As a general rule of thumb, Bacon gets the morning and Chicken controls the rest of the day, but the exact timing of the changing of the guard gets a little feathery. I'm going to attempt to weigh in on the situation using data gained during my research travels to Cedar Point in October of 2006 to discuss this topic with an expert in both Chicken and Bacon eating, Bill Witt. It just so happens Bill is a good friend of mine.
Bill strongly supports Bacon controlling the morning hours with its crisp, greasy, pleasure inducing taste. He, like many meat eaters around the world, enjoys his morning strips of bacon with any breakfast food. However, he feels strongly that once the clock strikes 12:00PM bacon's reign is done. Chicken rules from this point on. Chicken, with its vast number of tasty recipes, is also a wide crowd pleaser. Who doesn't like some chicken nuggets or a spicy chicken sandwich, or chicken in some casserole? The possibilities are endless. Alright, so all is well, right? We know which periods each of these titans of taste rule.
To quote Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friend!" What food do we prepare for a man like Bill Witt at the exact moment that 11:59 is turning to 12:00? Ah, Bill even had an answer for this dilemna for the ages. He proposes we prepare a cross-breed of the two meats. He titles this proposal, Chacon. This may seem like a silly idea, but don't be shocked if you see this item on grocery store shelves in the near future. Americans need their Bacon and Chicken, why not combine the two into one amazing orgasmic experience for your mouth? The implications of this merger of two of the primary meat industries in the country are too big to consider in this post alone (especially when your friendly blogger is about to pass out from exhaustion), but any questions my readers may have may be posted in the comments section for this blog. Thank you.
So to summarize, or as I like to call it, DSSotD (Dave's Silly Summary of the Day):
Don't go to a guitar recital unless you are prepared to witness Bugs Bunny running atop Elmer Fudd's naked mile while nibbling on his new carrot, Chacon...That's All Folks!
Secondly, I watched American Pie, the Naked Mile tonight and if you haven't seen it...don't bother. Jim's dad is the only returning character from the ones that are actually funny.
Finally, down to the title discussion for this evening. As true Chicken and Bacon supporters will know...there is a fierce rivalry between the two meats. They are constantly competing with each other for rule of the most time during the day. As a general rule of thumb, Bacon gets the morning and Chicken controls the rest of the day, but the exact timing of the changing of the guard gets a little feathery. I'm going to attempt to weigh in on the situation using data gained during my research travels to Cedar Point in October of 2006 to discuss this topic with an expert in both Chicken and Bacon eating, Bill Witt. It just so happens Bill is a good friend of mine.
Bill strongly supports Bacon controlling the morning hours with its crisp, greasy, pleasure inducing taste. He, like many meat eaters around the world, enjoys his morning strips of bacon with any breakfast food. However, he feels strongly that once the clock strikes 12:00PM bacon's reign is done. Chicken rules from this point on. Chicken, with its vast number of tasty recipes, is also a wide crowd pleaser. Who doesn't like some chicken nuggets or a spicy chicken sandwich, or chicken in some casserole? The possibilities are endless. Alright, so all is well, right? We know which periods each of these titans of taste rule.
To quote Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friend!" What food do we prepare for a man like Bill Witt at the exact moment that 11:59 is turning to 12:00? Ah, Bill even had an answer for this dilemna for the ages. He proposes we prepare a cross-breed of the two meats. He titles this proposal, Chacon. This may seem like a silly idea, but don't be shocked if you see this item on grocery store shelves in the near future. Americans need their Bacon and Chicken, why not combine the two into one amazing orgasmic experience for your mouth? The implications of this merger of two of the primary meat industries in the country are too big to consider in this post alone (especially when your friendly blogger is about to pass out from exhaustion), but any questions my readers may have may be posted in the comments section for this blog. Thank you.
So to summarize, or as I like to call it, DSSotD (Dave's Silly Summary of the Day):
Don't go to a guitar recital unless you are prepared to witness Bugs Bunny running atop Elmer Fudd's naked mile while nibbling on his new carrot, Chacon...That's All Folks!
February 10, 2008
Butter Lover's and Copeland
Today was a good day, mostly because it's the weekend, but still, a good day. The highlight has to be receiving a drunk dial from my good friend Meghan. Seeing as how she typically plays up being further gone than she is, it is debatable how drunk she really was. None the less, it was great to be invited to a late night Taco Bell run.
Thanks to the generosity of Kristin, I now have microwavable popcorn, Cheeze Its, and Dr. Pepper around the room, which is a great improvement over two bottles of beer and some Easy Mac which was all I had before. There really is no comparable popcorn that I've tried of the microwave variety that compares to ACT II Butter Lover's. It's just excellent stuff. Whatever the crap they have at the union is just doesn't compare and Butter Lover's is a huge step up from just regular butter or the kettle corn stuff. Though, real kettle corn at fairs or festivals is really where it is at and I love a good batch of popcorn popped by my dad back home.
Going along with the flavor of the rest of this random post, I went to a VUSO concert this evening and saw the three concerto competition winners perform their pieces. The best number of the concert was definitely El Salon Mexico by Copeland, however. I'm pleased to say that even in my absence from the VUSO, the trumpet solo near the beginning was well played.
So, to repeat from last night's post, here's my attempt to tie everything together into Dave's silly summary of the day:
Wouldn't it be nice to eat Taco Bell for a nice, classy dinner before an orchestra concert complimented by beer and Butter Lover's popcorn, which would obviously lead to a drunk dial to your friend from Mexico?
Thanks to the generosity of Kristin, I now have microwavable popcorn, Cheeze Its, and Dr. Pepper around the room, which is a great improvement over two bottles of beer and some Easy Mac which was all I had before. There really is no comparable popcorn that I've tried of the microwave variety that compares to ACT II Butter Lover's. It's just excellent stuff. Whatever the crap they have at the union is just doesn't compare and Butter Lover's is a huge step up from just regular butter or the kettle corn stuff. Though, real kettle corn at fairs or festivals is really where it is at and I love a good batch of popcorn popped by my dad back home.
Going along with the flavor of the rest of this random post, I went to a VUSO concert this evening and saw the three concerto competition winners perform their pieces. The best number of the concert was definitely El Salon Mexico by Copeland, however. I'm pleased to say that even in my absence from the VUSO, the trumpet solo near the beginning was well played.
So, to repeat from last night's post, here's my attempt to tie everything together into Dave's silly summary of the day:
Wouldn't it be nice to eat Taco Bell for a nice, classy dinner before an orchestra concert complimented by beer and Butter Lover's popcorn, which would obviously lead to a drunk dial to your friend from Mexico?
February 9, 2008
Jimmy John's and Loans
Today was a good day besides my waking up feeling ill. I guess the satelite tv going out before I could catch the end of the Fresh Prince episode was less than stellar as well.
Dinner plans to go to Lank and pick up junk food didn't work out due to Lank closing earlier than I remembered, so I hit up Jimmy John's tonight. This has led me to consider starting my Jimmy John's Cups for Beer Pong collection, only 19 more to go. Such excellent food...mmmm. While there Kristin and I led a discussion about where she is living next semester which led me to begin consideration of where I would like to live once I enter the real world in a little more depth, seeing has how that is no longer in the distant future. The appeal of a job in a city like Chicago, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, or Cleveland became apparent (teachers often receive assistance with their federal loans from the government to take a job in the inner city). I think I could handle a few years in any of those cities. Also, living in a city provides one the draw factor...aka...people will come visit to check out the city and stay with you for a weekend now and then. However, city life, on the other hand, is not ideal for a family or for a solid music program in a school and your job may be in danger at all times due to lack of funding for the school. Therefore, this is not a long term answer, but rather a ploy to live in a city (because it would be fun) and get loans paid off (which would be wonderful) in the short term scenario.
Tying all the elements of this post into one:
Once I get a teaching job in a city, you all must visit to eat Jimmy John's and play beer pong with what will hopefully by then be a complete set of Jimmy John's Cups for Beer Pong.
Dinner plans to go to Lank and pick up junk food didn't work out due to Lank closing earlier than I remembered, so I hit up Jimmy John's tonight. This has led me to consider starting my Jimmy John's Cups for Beer Pong collection, only 19 more to go. Such excellent food...mmmm. While there Kristin and I led a discussion about where she is living next semester which led me to begin consideration of where I would like to live once I enter the real world in a little more depth, seeing has how that is no longer in the distant future. The appeal of a job in a city like Chicago, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, or Cleveland became apparent (teachers often receive assistance with their federal loans from the government to take a job in the inner city). I think I could handle a few years in any of those cities. Also, living in a city provides one the draw factor...aka...people will come visit to check out the city and stay with you for a weekend now and then. However, city life, on the other hand, is not ideal for a family or for a solid music program in a school and your job may be in danger at all times due to lack of funding for the school. Therefore, this is not a long term answer, but rather a ploy to live in a city (because it would be fun) and get loans paid off (which would be wonderful) in the short term scenario.
Tying all the elements of this post into one:
Once I get a teaching job in a city, you all must visit to eat Jimmy John's and play beer pong with what will hopefully by then be a complete set of Jimmy John's Cups for Beer Pong.
February 8, 2008
uneventful (useless) day
Today was a pretty uneventful day on my front, so to prove how uneventful it was, I'm going to post an uneventful blog and attempt to make you all wish to never read the word uneventful again. During the midst of my uneventful day I flipped on the TV, mainly for the purpose of flipping channels. I stumbled upon a show on the same channel as that ninja show. Anyway, they were showing some other wacky competition where contestants have to walk through 7ish different obstacles on their hands. Holy crap, I can't even do a handstand, and they are walking up and down stairs, through water, and up ramps. It's pretty crazy stuff. Another competition they showed that same half hour was people walking up styrophome rectangles that fall so that the contestants fall, it was pretty funny. Has anyone else ever had an uneventful day which resulted in channel flipping landing their viewing pleasures on this show? You should try to catch it the next time you have an uneventful day if not.
The other proof I have of my day's uneventfulness is the fact that a 75 minute class consisted purely of going around the room and each individual student reading a prepared, one page outline of their classroom management philosophy. That was pretty miserable.
That's all I have for you today...due to the day's uneventful nature.
The other proof I have of my day's uneventfulness is the fact that a 75 minute class consisted purely of going around the room and each individual student reading a prepared, one page outline of their classroom management philosophy. That was pretty miserable.
That's all I have for you today...due to the day's uneventful nature.
February 7, 2008
sidewalks
Callouses are coming in strong from playing guitar. Ask me next time you see me and I have a guitar and I'll probably play and sing a couple tunes for you.
New mouthpiece for the trumpet is working out well, I'm quite pleased with my tone quality and attacks. Endurance is improving by the day. Made a 50 dollar order for music online from a webpage called Hickey Music...WTF?
Now the real subject of this blog:
So, for those of you who may for some reason not know or remember, Valpo converted to a walking campus, ripping out union street from the union to the VUCA so that you have to walk to get from one side of campus to the other quickly. This seems all well and good to the average person who visits during the non winter months, but for those of us still walking across campus, it sucks. Today was some of the crappiest weather I've seen in a long time. We got rain, sleet, snow, sleet, rain, and I think it is snowing again...and that was the order too. This was on top of the 3-4 inches of snow that melted yesterday. Hence Valpo, which must have a water table half an inch below the ground, was already flooded, and the sidewalks froze today. Then we added about 2 inches of slush to the ice making walking across campus wet, slippery, muddy, and all other things nasty. So, in summary, don't come here in the winter, it's not worth the new pair of shoes per day you'd need.
New mouthpiece for the trumpet is working out well, I'm quite pleased with my tone quality and attacks. Endurance is improving by the day. Made a 50 dollar order for music online from a webpage called Hickey Music...WTF?
Now the real subject of this blog:
So, for those of you who may for some reason not know or remember, Valpo converted to a walking campus, ripping out union street from the union to the VUCA so that you have to walk to get from one side of campus to the other quickly. This seems all well and good to the average person who visits during the non winter months, but for those of us still walking across campus, it sucks. Today was some of the crappiest weather I've seen in a long time. We got rain, sleet, snow, sleet, rain, and I think it is snowing again...and that was the order too. This was on top of the 3-4 inches of snow that melted yesterday. Hence Valpo, which must have a water table half an inch below the ground, was already flooded, and the sidewalks froze today. Then we added about 2 inches of slush to the ice making walking across campus wet, slippery, muddy, and all other things nasty. So, in summary, don't come here in the winter, it's not worth the new pair of shoes per day you'd need.
February 6, 2008
WTF Homer?
Why does Lloyd continue to see so much time on the floor? Why is he running point when Diebler's assist to turnover ratio is a full point assist better? Why do we give him the ball in pressure situations at the end of close games when he shoots 60% at the line? He screwed us over at the end of the Loyola game and did it on national TV tonight. If he doesn't see some serious time on the bench it's time to question Homer's job as head coach here at Valpo. Sure Lloyd is a senior and should get minutes, but he is not under any circumstance a clutch player. Even I would not AIRBALL A FREE THROW when my team has the lead in front of a home crowd of way over 5000 who did not allow a single possession to go by without coordinated noisemaking (otherwise known as cheering). All in all great game...one man screwed it up...as has happened to us enough times that Homer needs to get the clue. Also, one last thing, 7 seconds is enough time to run a play other than running the ball up court, making no passes, and jacking up a contested 3.
out...
out...
February 5, 2008
watch espn2 tomorrow night
Valpo-Butler
This should be a good game and look for me in the pep band on national TV.
Today was pretty boring as usual, though I am rather partial to 1 class Monday. I pretty much sat around, finished up a little homework and chatted with people all day.
Yep...and I'm fairly wiped out...all that hard work I suppose.
Check in tomorrow for comments on the game.
This should be a good game and look for me in the pep band on national TV.
Today was pretty boring as usual, though I am rather partial to 1 class Monday. I pretty much sat around, finished up a little homework and chatted with people all day.
Yep...and I'm fairly wiped out...all that hard work I suppose.
Check in tomorrow for comments on the game.
February 3, 2008
Superbowl Sunday
Great game! Perhaps the most entertaining Super Bowl I have every watched. It had all the elements. It came down to the last few minutes, great defense, amazing plays, New England lost...what could be better. It was the coming of age of Eli Manning. Kristin and I had our own party with Jimmy John's and lots of snack food. I have to say that surround sound is the way to go.
As far as commercials go, this Superbowl was pretty good, but nothing too special.
My top 3:
1. Bud Light allows you to blow fire. Absolutely phenominal.
2. Budweiser Clydesdale trains with the dalmation. Nicely done, nicely done.
3. Coke commercial with the two party representatives who then go off together through D.C. Pretty damn funny.
As far as commercials go, this Superbowl was pretty good, but nothing too special.
My top 3:
1. Bud Light allows you to blow fire. Absolutely phenominal.
2. Budweiser Clydesdale trains with the dalmation. Nicely done, nicely done.
3. Coke commercial with the two party representatives who then go off together through D.C. Pretty damn funny.
Ever have one of those days?
First off...this is my first post. I'm going to explore this whole idea of a blog...guess it'll kind of be like a journal and a way for people who I don't see as much to stay in touch with what's up in Dave World. So, to get a few formalities out of the way, I'm spending my 5th year here at VU pursuing that elusive Music Education degree with the desire to teach high school music and band. I'm taking my smallest credit load thus far in my college career and am therefore bored most of the time. I practice trumpet and guitar quite a lot and rarely have too much homework. I'm still with Kristin and things are good on that front.
Today, however, was just one of those days where people just frustrate you. It's not really their fault or yours, but they are really frustrating. I was very argumentative and easily pissed off. Sigh, I suppose it is bound to happen every now and again.
I went up to the dunes, so check out the good old facebook pics. It was pretty fun. I also played in the pep band for the first time in quite a while. Sadly, it was a women's game which VU lost by more than 20. It was an awful game, but 4 tumpets was better than 3 I suppose. On the note of pep band, however, recently electric violins with amps have popped up in the pep band, and that sounds like shit. I don't know what A. the violinists are thinking, B. what the directors are thinking, or C. how the crowd has put up with it so far, but I hope they stop soon on all fronts.
On a final note, I hope all is well with everyone and that you are all reading Brett's blogs and taking notes on how to make the best jagerbombs.
Today, however, was just one of those days where people just frustrate you. It's not really their fault or yours, but they are really frustrating. I was very argumentative and easily pissed off. Sigh, I suppose it is bound to happen every now and again.
I went up to the dunes, so check out the good old facebook pics. It was pretty fun. I also played in the pep band for the first time in quite a while. Sadly, it was a women's game which VU lost by more than 20. It was an awful game, but 4 tumpets was better than 3 I suppose. On the note of pep band, however, recently electric violins with amps have popped up in the pep band, and that sounds like shit. I don't know what A. the violinists are thinking, B. what the directors are thinking, or C. how the crowd has put up with it so far, but I hope they stop soon on all fronts.
On a final note, I hope all is well with everyone and that you are all reading Brett's blogs and taking notes on how to make the best jagerbombs.
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