Journey with Jade

New Blog

2008-10-30T15:19:00.002-05:00

I've moved my blogging over to Wordpress. Check out my new blog here. http://bawb.wordpress.com/

Going Whichever Way the Wind Blows.......

2008-10-13T20:02:00.001-05:00

You've seen that Toyota commercial...right!?!?

I'm loving that song. It's by Peter Droge. I'm such a folk song lover!!

Here I Am

2008-10-12T22:05:00.004-05:00

Here I am everyone!!!

Life has just been so .... that I haven't sat down to write through shear frustration or because anything is really happening.

Work has been work. Some upsets and high times. I decided to not pursue the job in Tucson because I believe that with the new Chief at work there are some very unique opportunities available to me here. It was a difficult decision and some days I wonder if I made a correct decision. I have given myself 6 months and if something promising does not appear here, I will reapply elsewhere, again, most likely considerably more south than here.

That also goes in line with other decisions. I've decided agains moving and so have had to think about where I currently rent. At this time I'm going to ask for just a 6 month lease, so it aligns with my job decision. Plus, its so much nicer moving in June or May than it is in December.

I've had some trouble lately finding motivation to keep running. I ran a 10k race a few weeks ago and it was great. I thoroughly enjoyed myself but found out the next day that the Marine Corps had medically disqualified me for the second time. It's taken the wind out of my sails for exercising even though I tried to mentally prepare for just such an occurence and NOT have it effect my workout routine. But.. I can happily report that right now my arms and shoulders are kiling me from a good rigorous upper body workout today. I did run this week, 4+ miles and I know I'll get back into a routine here soon. I just have to figure out what the routine is. I'd still like to join a club, but... I simply can't afford it right now after buying the new car. I'll give myself a few months and then see where I am financially.

In other news my final divorce hearing is on the court schedule for Dec 2nd. A little over ten months after we filed but, we've not paid a lawyer a dime and we've not had any major disagreements that we couldn't iron out in a few days. It seems we are much better at getting along as friends then we are in a closer relationship. That is one thing I've discovered. I've made many mistakes over getting involved with my friends when I should have stayed at the friend level. This epiphany has opened up a whole new world for me and has given me some very worthwhile friends that I am actually friends with!

Also, I plan on seeing Shinedown again in November, to make three times in 6 months!!! Not groupie status I know... but, working on it. They are playing with Buckcherry, Avenged Sevenfold, and Saving Abel here in Madison. Going to be a sweet show!!!

There's more.. but here is at least an update. Whew... that wasn't as hard as i thought it would be.

FACEBOOK

2008-09-28T02:22:00.001-05:00

100 foods

2008-09-26T05:08:00.002-05:00

From Very Good Taste, “a list of 100 things that I think every good omnivore should have tried at least once in their life. The list includes fine food, strange food, everyday food and even some pretty bad food - but a good omnivore should really try it all.”

The rules:
1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.

My total score: 74/100

The VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:

1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile
6. Black pudding
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche
28. Oysters
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. Hare
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake

Torn

2008-09-26T04:53:00.001-05:00

Still going strong...

2008-09-17T16:55:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's been a few days since my last post. No... I haven't dropped off the face of the earth and there has been lots and lots happening, just feeling pretty private. Mostly because I still have lots of decisions to make, so I'm not quite ready to share yet.
But, here's what I can tell you...
My trip to Cancun was amazing. Had a great time!! Saw amazing things, ate strange new things, met new people... It was wonderful. It was extremely ucky to get back home! Fall has set in here in Wisconsin and I don't like it. I don't mind the cool temps to run in and sleep in, but, I already miss the heat and I spent a good week shivering after I got home.
I pretty much hate work. Every day I have to talk myself into it. Most days I am successful. We have a new boss and although I think he will make things better, I don't know if I can stick it out to see the changes.
I had a great run today. Running my first "organized" run this coming weekend. A 10k. I'm really excited. The way I am about things I highly doubt this will be my last one. I just hope I make good time.
Right now I am extremely tired. I had a good run, but no nap, so I am struggling to keep my eyes open. Another 6 hours to go... ugghhh....

Dogo argentino

2008-09-15T09:57:00.001-05:00

Loony Tunes - Duck Amuck

2008-09-13T03:55:00.001-05:00

Bugs' Rabbit of Seville

2008-09-13T03:33:00.001-05:00

And Let's Try this Again!

2008-08-30T10:43:00.002-05:00

A new day!!

I'm sitting in the international flights terminal at Dallas Ft. Worth Airport. Our flight from Dallas to Cancun was cancelled yesterday due to storms... no, not the Hurricane, but local thunderstorms here in Texas. After a good deal of time on the phone I rearranged all of our travel plans and now we're going to spend an extra day in Cancun!! Well, not an extra day I guess, but we all decided that we dont want to leave on Thursday next week, so we'll leave on Friday.

With rearranging everything our new flight leaves Sat afternoon from Dallas to Cancun. We spent the night in Dallas... I've spent a night in Texas now!

I hope I got everything rearranged correctly yesterday. So far we got our boarding passes with no trouble, but... I just want to gloat in how smart I was yesterday, even though i got some ribbing for it early in the day.

I pack light, I dont take anything I dont really need, yet I try to pack for every contingency. I didn't want to check any baggage for our flights. I like having just carry on, it makes life so much easier, I think. Well, the family was giving me a bit of crap about it yesterday.... "Gee, you have everything in there huh?" "WOW" "Isn't it annoying having to carry that bag around?" Well, yesterday when our flight got cancelled my dad, sister and soon to be brother in laws baggage was all thrown in some huge hold at the airport. HAHA!! That means they had nothing but what they'd taken on the plane with them yesterday! No new clothes, no toothbrush, and so on. Of course I could have killed them all. My dad, who has an artificial heart valve and takes blood thinner daily, had packed all his prescirption meds... as had my sister for her prescriptions!!! I'm a bit concerned that we won't find their baggage when we get to Mexico. I hope we do, I really really hope we find it immediately!

It was fun getting our boarding passes this morning. It went smooth like butter. The shuttle from the airport drove us up to the right terminal and gate (I had checked all that before we left the hotel.). We stepped out of the van through the door and up to the self-check-in monitor. I punched a few buttons and it spit out all 4 of our boarding passes and then we walked through security which had NO line. We got here 3 hours early in case we were going to run into problems and it took us less than ten minutes from the curb outside to waiting at the gate.

To waste some time we went to the Duty Free Shop.... I bought some perfume with Elise's guidance! LOL!! Then we all kind of went our separate ways. I went down and bought a few postcards and sent them out in the mail and then I've been sitting here. Elise isn't feeling very well without her meds, so she's been sleeping in the chair next to me. Adam and my dad I haven't seen in about an hour... We have another hour before we begin boarding so I'm not too worried. Not yet... LOL!

Since there is Wi-Fi I'm happy as a clam. I keep checking the weather.... and I've been planning another vacation, well... scouting trip... trying to find the best deals. You know you're living the good life when you're sitting at the airport about to fly to Cancun for a week and you're checking flight information for another vacation hot spot! LOL!!! Plus, I signed up for American Airlines Advantage club Thursday so I'm racking up lots of air miles on this trip! Yippeee for me!

At the hotel we met some other stranded travelers. They had just flown into DFW yesterday from Puerta Vallerta (sp?) when they found out their flight out of DFW had been cancelled. What was their final destination?? Milwaukee, WI. I walk into the hotel lobby and my dad is just chatting away... when we find out they're from WI it was so funny. I guess WI people are just friendlier than the average! LOL!

If we get into Cancun today, the only thing that could make this vacation any better would be a call from SSgt. Lewis... Everyone cross their fingers....PLEASE!!

Continuing...

2008-08-29T12:43:00.002-05:00

OK, so now I'm in St. Louis waiting for my family and have a few minutes to keep typing.

I applied with Tucson PD. I'm planning a scouting trip out there soon. I thought I would go next week when I get back from Cancun, but, I have some things that I need to settle at home. If I get asked out for testing in Tucson, I'll spend a couple extra days then.

I've already looked at housing and from what I see, it's cheaper than what I'm paying now and my job would be paying better. Cant argue with those figures. Plus, the weather would be perfect. I never get too warm. I love it warm. I want it to be warm always... Everyone that knows me, knows this about me.

OK.. More later again... With family at the airport now!!!

News

2008-08-29T09:19:00.003-05:00

Good Morning,
It sure has been a long time since I wrote. Sorry about that, I've just been so darn busy!
Let's see, right now I'm sitting at O'Hare in Chicago waiting to get on a flight for St. Louis. There I am going to meet my sister, her fiance, and my dad and we are going to fly to Cancun. We'll be staying there for the next 6 nights!! Woot!! Sure, Hurricane Gustav is still a threat for the area, but, he's lost lots of power and I think we're going to just have to suffer through the rain for a few days.
I thought for sure I would know about the Marine Corps by now, wouldn't you all think so too!!! Well good things come to those who wait, right... well, that's the theory I am working under. I have been calling SSgt. Lewis every few days wondering what the status of my app with MEPS is and he hadn't heard anything. Well, yesterday I begged if he would please call down for an update, just so that I could know when I left. Well, unfortunately... some paperwork got lost somewhere and I had to run down the recruiting office yesterday afternoon and quick fill some out. So..... now it's hopefully been submitted and being considered for enlistment. Some great news in the middle of a hurricane would be pretty awesome, eh?
Meanwhile, I'm proceeding with my Plan Bs. I submitted my application for employment with the Tucson Arizona Police Department.
Whoops... more later, got to go.

Basil Fawlty VS His Car

2008-08-24T05:20:00.001-05:00

Always by Saliva (acoustic)

2008-08-23T20:24:00.002-05:00

Saliva Lyrics
Always Lyrics

Marine Corps Ball - Crank Dat Soulja Boy Marines

2008-08-15T21:17:00.006-05:00

Marine Corps Boot Camp Journey to the Differences

2008-08-15T21:17:00.003-05:00

Shinedown... AGAIN!

2008-08-08T08:44:00.006-05:00

Went and saw Shinedown again last night, up in Green Bay this time!!! They are an awesome group that puts on a live show that is out of this world. The venue was very small and it was utterly mind blowing to be able to see them again so soon and under such wonderful circumstances. I'll be posting pics as soon as I can of Brent Smith and I, and I also got autographs from the whole band as well as great video (standing at the rail 5 feet from the stage)!!!

My new fav song:

Shinedown Lyrics
Call Me Lyrics

Before the show I also met Aaron Gainer, drummer for the group 12 Stones. A very cool guy who you can tell is quite the intellectual. It was really nice to talk to him and then again after the show. Also met Paul McCoy lead singer the same group. Very personable. Someone you could sit and talk with all night.

Like I said, this show was just awesome. Black Stone Cherry also played and put on a great show... Walked shoulder to shoulder with every member of all three groups after the show. Unbelievable!!!

What do you mean??

2008-07-31T16:29:00.003-05:00

45 by Shinedown (acoustic)

45 (song)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

45 is a song by Hard Rock band Shinedown. The song was released on July 13, 2003 on the album Leave A Whisper. Following the album's release, "45" became a popular single. An acoustic cover of "45" was featured on the album's re-release on June 15, 2004.

Brent Smith (the lead singer and songwriters) has stated in an interview "The inspiration from the song really came from – I think a lot of people kinda take a literal sense because of the lyrics – but the song is basically about the day that you wake up and you look at yourself in the mirror and you finally decide that you want to try to become comfortable in your own skin, and realize that you’re gonna have to make yourself happy before you’re going to make anyone else happy. And basically, the 45 isn’t an actual literal term for a gun, I used it as a metaphor for the world, the 45 is actually the world and what it hands you every day of your life. When you get up, it’s a gift to be alive to begin with. A lot of different people, when I’ve talked about it, they said, “Do you really honestly mean that?” And I’m like, “Well, yeah.” Because I’ve been in that situation where I didn’t know if I wanted to continue going on and I didn’t know how to necessarily make myself comfortable with who I was, trying to find a way of learning more about myself. And you come from a dark place sometimes, and that’s really the reality of the song. It’s about overcoming and about moving forward. And it’s basically about understanding that it’s not always going to be good, but you really have no one to blame for yourself if you don’t move forward. That’s where the whole, “Nobody knows what I believe,” [comes from] because we’re all individuals. So that’s really where it comes from, it’s about moving on, really."[1]
"45" placed 12th among US Modern Rock and 3rd among US Mainstream Rock songs after its release.

Music Video Controversy
The music video for "45" was banned from MTV because Shinedown refused to change the words of the chorus.
In the same interview, Brent stated, "Yeah, they sent a treatment over, and this was how it went: 'And I’m [long pause], swimming through the [long pause],' and I said, 'No. That’s retarded.' I just said, 'You don't want to play it because of the words; don’t play it, I don't care.' At that time, I had a hard time with the company, meaning the network, about that, because I said, 'If you can show,' –- and this has nothing to do with my feelings toward Rap music, Hip/Hop, R&B, things like that; but it seems like those individuals and those artists could get away with whatever they wanted to, but I'm sitting here talking about a subject matter that I felt needed to be heard, and they were like, 'It’s too literal, you're being too blunt about it –- and I said, 'Jay-Z has 99 problems and you don't have a problem showing him getting shot on your network, I don't see why you have a problem with me saying I'm staring down the barrel of a 45, even though the fact is I'm not even talking about an actual gun."

WJJO Band Camp 2008

2008-07-30T02:32:00.006-05:00

This is the picture I show EVERYONE when they ask me about Band Camp 2008!! I love this frickin pic! It's the lead singer from Shinedown, Brent Smith, as he walks past my out-stretched hands!!! Is that face not fucking AWESOME!!
This isn't my pic, but this shows the lead singer from Hurt with his violin which I thought was cool as hell.

Here's Brent Smith again and again, not my pic. He totally rocked!
This is a pic of me and the band Seether. I know, I know... we rock! :)
Theory of a Deadman just about to start in this pic.
And again, Brent Smith center stage. Did I say Shinedown rocked??? Well, they did!!!

Here's an article about the day... http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=814201

Here's a video that's already up on YouTube showing Shinedown playing 45. The crowd chanted this song in between each song until Shinedown played it.

Update

2008-07-30T01:39:00.002-05:00

Wow, again, I've been so busy that I'm just now getting a chance to sit down and update you all.

Let's see, you saw the couple pics from Saturday dog show. I finished the rest of Saturday by going home and relaxing. I considered going to the Dells to the races with my friends Aaron and Jenny, but then thought I'd better rest up for Sunday and JJO's Band Camp.

Sunday morning I got up and went running. I've recently started timing myself. I ran 3.0 miles in 26:59. 9 minute miles. Not the greatest, but, now I know where I am so I can start pushing myself to go faster. I'd like to get to 8 minute miles for 5 mile distances. Let's see how long that takes.

After my run I was going to lay back down for a nap while I waited for Greg to arrive about 1100. It was a good plan, but it didn't happen. Greg called about 1030, totally psyched for the day, as was I!!!!

When he got there I grabbed my CD and tickets and we headed for a quick bite to eat at Panera Bread. We got to the Alliant Energy Center and were in the gates by noon and caught the last part of Bobaflex's set. Caught this song....

Home by Bobaflex

Sick Puppies then played on Stage Two. Their female bassist was awesome.

Next on Stage One was Hurt. Here is one of their more popular songs. They had a good set. I absolutely loved the violin played by the lead singer.

Rapture by Hurt

Greg and I were just sticking to the main stage. There were two stages set up. A band would play on Stage One and then they'd set up Stage Two for the next band. When whoever was playing on Stage One was done, they'd start up on Stage Two and set up for the next band on Stage One. Stage One had the better bands, so we just tried to grab a good area on that side and watched the big screen to see the bands playing on Stage Two.

The next band to play on Stage One after Hurt was Ra. They were really good. They played this song which was awesome!!

Broken Hearted Soul by Ra

The next band to play on Stage One was Dope. After standing for a few hours at this point, Greg and I took the chance to sit this one out on a quickly dwindling patch of grass outside of the beer garden. I'm not much of a Dope fan anyways, so it was fine, but we headed back to the stage to catch what we could of Theory of a Deadman. We caught this song.

Bad Girlfriend by Theory of a Deadman

We didn't catch much, maybe the first ten minutes before we had to get over to the backstage gates so that we could do a Meet and Greet with Seether. There were about ten of us that had won the honor! I'll upload those pics in another post since they seem to interfere with the YouTube embeds.

After we got back to Stage One, we caught a few more songs from Theory of a Deadman and then we waited for Shinedown. Greg was psyched to see ToaD and Shinedown. I'd heard a few songs from each group, but I was there to see Seether. However, when Shinedown took the stage, I was fricking impressed. We saw 14 bands and Shinedown was far and away the best stage performance.

My new favorites...

Second Chance by Shinedown

45 by Shinedown

Every song I pull up by Shinedown quickly becomes an often listened to track. I Dare You, Save Me, Devour, Burning Bright and of course their cover of Simple Man. All are outstanding!!

You'll see in the pics in the other post that Brent Smith, their lead singer is an awesome showman. His intros to the songs and his time with the crowd are prompting me to go see them again next week in Green Bay.

After Shinedown, Seether was a let down, and I had just stood shoulder to shoulder with them. They just had no energy. They weren't playing the songs I liked, and when they did, they were just flat. Greg and I actually left mid-set. After standing in the sun for nine hours, it was time to call it a day.

I had an absolutely great time. Fellow rock enthusiasts that made up the crowd were awesome. I talked with so many complete strangers about so many odd and normal things. I just had a blast. I look forward to something similar ASAP.

Sunny days

2008-07-26T19:50:00.004-05:00

Now is that not the cutest Bulldog ever??? I stopped this lady for just a second and she was gracious enough to let me snap a quick pic.

As you can guess I went to the Dog Show in Waukesha! I saw Boxers and Weims, Bulldogs and Belgian Malinois. Below is Kelley and I. Miken had just woke up from a nap, Grandpa had been holding him, but he still looks smiley for the picture.

Kelley and I had a good time watching Weims. I also saw Chris and Steph, Julia, Anna and Dustin (Eli too!!) and Rosemary and Mara and Kim and assorted other dog people. It was a nice trip down memory lane.

Isn't this Boxer beautiful!!??

It was nice to go to the show. There's no doubt it was nice to see my dog show friends that I haven't seen in months, but it was also an eye opening experience. I don't think that I would meld into this world well anymore. I had to shut my mouth a few times when I was going to say something because there's no battle here worth fighting. I just don't think I could keep quiet anymore. I don't like the majority of the attitudes and I hate the falseness. I always enjoyed the competition and I am thankful for the good friends that I did make and I know that I will hold onto them as friends even if I don't choose to show dogs at this time.

On another note, here's Storm from yesterday when I got my new wireless keyboard... she was looking for the mouse... It says right on the side of the box that there is one!

She's such a goof ball. She just cracks me up!

So Much To Do, So Little Time

2008-07-25T19:25:00.006-05:00

I made it through my work week, barely. I had 7 days of work in a row... my 7 day stretch before my weekend, and I ended up working 16 hour shifts for 4 of those. Yes, so I put in 32 hours of overtime, plus my regularly scheduled 56 hours. It may not seem like much until you find out what else I got done this week!!

Let's see... Oh, Mike should get mention. On Tuesday a friend and I went to Buffalo Wings for $.40 wings!! I had the habanero something or other flavor. They were awesome!! I had to hold back, I could have eaten about a milion more! I told Mike I'm going for the T-shirt next time we go. I guess if you have 12 of the Blazin' wings you get a T-shirt. Well, the habanero was third from the hottest, and that was my first visit. Blazin'... ha!!! LOL!

After BW3's we headed over to the Argus where I had a Leinie's Honey Weiss. I wanted a Summer Shanty at Buffalo Wings but they were like standing room only... We sat and talked for a while, enjoying the summer evening... it was throroughly awesome!!

That was Tuesday. On Wednesday I had to work, and then got ordered to work overnight... so a 16 hour shift... Kind of bit becausee I had quite a few things I had wanted to get done on Thursday. Oh well...

Talked to my mom as I was leaving work Thursday morning, went home and slept for a few hours so I could get back to work in the afternoon.

So, I've been wanting to go to JJO's Band Camp... mostly to see Seether, however I have not wanted to pay the outrageous TicketMaster prices... so... I've been hunting on Craigslist!! On Thursday I got to work and Lee was showing me a pedal bike he had seen on Craigslist that I may be interested in... tell ya more about that later...

When I was finished looking at the bike I headed back over to the Ticket board and saw that there were a couple new listings... I fired off emails immediately. Well wouldn't you know I got two replies immediately!! Not only do I now have 3 tickets to go to Band Camp I also got two passes for a Meet and Greet with Seether..... Yes, you are reading correctly. I get to meet Seether on Sunday!!!!! Holy Crap!!! My friend Greg is going with me and when i called him to tell him the news, he was like, no fucking way!!! Oh yes... I rule!!!

Today I met with the person that had the passes and made the arrangements with JJO and Charter and my name is now on the list with security and event personnel!! OMG!!! Umm... yaa.... I am so beyond psyched I think I could puke!!!

I am trying to think of everything to get ready for Sunday. I have a CD for them to sign... I have my camera... I brushed up on my Seether history... OK.. now I just have to be not totally lame!!! LOL!!!

Earlier this week I also bought an external HD.. 500GB.. you wouldn't believe how much of it I already have filled. Transferred my iTunes over to the new drive... because my computer was bogging down so bad and I've been out of room for so long. Can't play any of my games and I FINALLY found my Call of Duty 4 disk so now I can play it again,... and have room to do so. Yes, I lost COD4 like two months ago and have been pouring over the house again and again....

I also picked up a wireless keyboard and mouse. So I can finally sit on the couch and type instead of having to sit in front of the coffee table on the floor. :) I almost made plastic shreds when I couldn't figure out the damn thing... they say it's easy... well.. it wasn't. Finally figured out that I had to uninstall the wireless mouse I already had, so that I could add the keyboard/mouse combo that I have now. Worked like a charm after that... but I missed my morales on Facebook.... don't ask!!

Tomorrow I'm really excited because I get to see some of my friends I haven't seen in ages!!! There is a dog show about an hour away and I am going to meet up with Kelley and Steph and Anna and so many of my other dog show friends that I haven't seen in ages!!! I have to get up in the AM, earlier than usual, but... well, I survived today.

That's right, this morning I was up at 0600 to meet with Mike to go running. He's starting to run after a pretty devastating knee injury in January and has finally been cleared to run again, so this am we did 2.5 miles. It was weird to run with someone else. I've never done that before.. kind of nice. Pretty soon he'll be in better shape and we'll go further. I'm contemplating 5 miles on Sunday morning, but I don't want to be too tired on Sunday afternoon, but... I'm not tired at the 4 mile mark, so I doubt it would be too bad. Hmmm....

I also did a little shopping today. Aeropostle had a nice summer with most of their summer stuff on clearance, so I picked up some more camis which are my favorite summer attire!! Spent $50 and walked away with a pair of shorts and 6 shirts... now how can anyone pass that up??

OK, I think there's more, but I can't think of it right now, so I'll write again later and put up pics as soon as I can!!!!

Personality

2008-07-21T22:13:00.001-05:00

ENFP
Extraverted iNtuitive Feeling Perceiving
ENFPs are initiators of change, keenly perceptive of possibilities. They energize and stimulate others through their contagious enthusiasm. They prefer the start-up phase of a project or relationship, and are tireless in the pursuit of new-found interests. ENFPs are able to anticipate the needs of others and to offer them needed help and appreciation. They bring zest, joy, liveliness, and a zany sense of fun to all aspects of their lives. They are at their best in situations that are fluid and changing, and that allow them to express their creativity and use their charisma. They tend to idealize people, and can be disappointed when reality fails to fulfill their expectations. They are easily frustrated if a project requires a great deal of follow-up or attention to detail.

This is the 2nd test I've taken of this type over the last few months and they came out the same... except I'm a bit more extroverted now then I was. Cool!

The Tyger

2008-07-21T21:57:00.001-05:00

THE TYGER (from Songs Of Experience)
By William Blake

Tyger! Tyger! burning bright
In the forests of the night,
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?

In what distant deeps or skies
Burnt the fire of thine eyes?
On what wings dare he aspire?
What the hand dare sieze the fire?

And what shoulder, & what art.
Could twist the sinews of thy heart?
And when thy heart began to beat,
What dread hand? & what dread feet?

What the hammer? what the chain?
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil? what dread grasp
Dare its deadly terrors clasp?

When the stars threw down their spears,
And watered heaven with their tears,
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the Lamb make thee?

Tyger! Tyger! burning bright
In the forests of the night,
What immortal hand or eye
Dare frame thy fearful symmetry?

1794

Too tired

2008-07-21T09:18:00.003-05:00

Since beginning work on Friday at 2300, I have logged 42 hours, with another 6 to go until my shift is done today. That's three 16-hour shifts, in a row. I've had about 8 hours of sleep total since Friday. My brain is just enitrely too fried to write anything that would make sense, so I'll catch yall up tomorrow.

JJO Band Camp

2008-07-21T00:39:00.001-05:00

The Dark Knight

2008-07-20T10:12:00.006-05:00

This post will be all about The Dark Knight. If you haven't seen it and don't want to see pics yet, don't look. But I will not be discussing any particulars of the movie, so no spoilers!

So Yes, I am one of the fans that is making records for "The Dark Knight"! I've seen it twice so far, once in 35mm and once in IMAX!!! If you can see it in IMAX, do so immediately! All the shows are sold out today at the IMAX in town or I'd skip sleep again to go see it!

That's 4 showings in IMAX in a theatre that seats at least 150 @ $12.50 a ticket. Plus 16 showings in 35mm @ $7 (half between reg price and matinee price). Let's say 100 people see each showing (they're not pre-sold out like the IMAX showings, so I'm being generous and not saying that they all sell out.) That means that particular theatre is adding $18,700 to the opening weekend sales today alone. There are 5 theatres in town showing the movie! WOW!!!

Heath Ledger was brilliant. I am a HUGE Jack Nicholson fan. I really, honestly thought that no one could play The Joker better. It hurts to say I was wrong. No disrespect to Nicholson but Ledger mastered this character. It makes it doubly heart wrenching to know that the character can never be played like that again.

The feeling that this scene above depicts is awesome. I've seen lots of movies recently, I average 5 or more a week, and I'm a sci-fi fanatic. Christopher Nolan has done the most realistic and believable storyline that I have seen to date in a sci-fi movie. He develops the characters, gives them depth, portrays them in a way that leaves me speechless and dying for more. Like a good book, I did not want this film to end.

Go... Go see it now! I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed.

Mash Ups

2008-07-20T09:40:00.003-05:00

I love this kind of thing!

Kanye West's Goldigger and When I Get You Alone by Robin Thicke which used a sample of Walter Murphey and The Big Apple Band's A Fifth of Beethoven which sampled the first movement of Beethoven's 5th Symphony. Or, you can just say Goldigger and Beethoven's 5th mashed up. Video Synced by Vj Depict.

Another good one!

A mash up with We Will Rock You by Queen and Hey Ya by Outkast.

Why are there not more clips?

2008-07-20T08:51:00.002-05:00

Found a new clip. It looks like its an ad for his corporate gigs, but, damn, he's still funny!

Bitten by the bug

2008-07-20T08:17:00.005-05:00

It seems I've been bitten with some sort of entertainment bug. There are just a ton of acts that I want to see now, you know, experience. Here's just a list I can think of this AM.

Seether - July 27th in Madison. I don't have my ticket yet, and its this Sunday, but I'm not too worried. Its Gen Adm, outdoors, mud and all that.

Garrison Keillor - Aug 10th in Bayfield (6+ hour drive), Aug 17th in Des Moines (working...ugh), Aug 20th in Denver at Red Rocks (That would be so sweet!!), Aug 29th in St. Paul (in Cancun.)

Mason Williams - Sept. 5th in Bayfield, WI (Again.. that 6 hour drive)

Disturbed - Aug 10th in Chicago with Slipknot (and I actually don't work that day)

Greg Hahn - Aug 7-9 in Peoria, IL. Hmmm.... with Disturbed the next day... Can you say FATE!?!?

3 Doors Down - Aug 21st in St. Paul at the Fair (w/ Hinder & Staind) OR Sept 3rd in Denver at Red Rocks!!! (W/ Hinder, Finger 11 & American Bang) I'd rather Staind was still playing with them, but, this wouldn't be so bad. Don't see them when they're an hour away, wait until they're 14 hours away... LOL!! Good plan!

Classical Gas

2008-07-20T07:12:00.007-05:00

You know that song Classical Gas??

Well, it's on my iTunes as that it is by Eric Clapton, just like it shows above. I never disputed this. Well, yesterday I'm talking to a friend and he disagrees with me. Oh, I know, the nerve, right! LOL! Anyways, wikipedia, the god of all things important, agrees with him. Don't tell him he was right, k?

From the Classical Gas page on wikipedia: There is a common misconception that Eric Clapton covered Classical Gas; a misconception so strong that Mason Williams released a statement on his www.classicalgas.com website, "Did Eric Clapton Ever record 'Classical Gas?'

So, it's Mason Williams that wrote Classical Gas... hmmmm. Mason Williams website has this to say: There is a common misconception that Eric Clapton arranged and performed this song, but Clapton has actually never recorded Classical Gas. The misconception may come from the fact that Eric Clapton was the musical director and played much of the guitar music in the movie “The Story of Us,” however, the version of Classical Gas on the soundtrack is from Mason Williams' 1971 album “Handmade.” Visit the Recordings & Covers page for a complete list of artists who have covered Classical Gas.

So here's Mason Wiliams. There are two versions of Classical Gasoline, or as it later came to be known, "Classical Gas". The first is often attributed to Mason Williams and was performed with an orchestra. The second version is the one that is almost always attributed to Eric Clapton. Both are performed by Mason Williams. The author of this video clip even acknowledges the mistake in his notes, because he used Eric Clapton pics for the second version.

However my friend mentioned something about a "Dan". My eyes brighten "Dan Fogelberg?" LOL! Ok, even I know that Dan Fogelberg had nothing to do with this song. But I was intrigued. What does wikipedia say?? Surprise of surprises, wikipedia comes through once again:

The composer, Mason Williams, was the head writer for the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour at the time of the song's release. The song saw its television premiere on the show and Williams performed it several times over several editions. After the song had reached the Top Ten, Williams asked an experimental filmmaker named Dan McLaughlin to create a video montage of classical art works edited in time to the music, using a visual effect now known as kinestasis. The pioneering work, "3000 Years of Art", premiered in the summer of 1968 and may have helped push the song high on the charts.

Here is the best I could do to show you that film piece that Dan McLaughlin produced. See the notes following from the video owner for an explanation.

NOTE: If you're interested in viewing a high-res version of this video, shoot a note to my YouTube account or email me at mrgorsky22@yahoo.com.

**************************************** ****************************

The "Classical Gas Video," as it has come to be known, started out as a student film in 1963 entitled "God is Dog Spelled Backwards." The film was created by UCLA film student, Dan McLaughlin, who used Beethoven's 5th Symphony as the original soundtrack. McLaughlin's idea was to bring together the world's greatest art and the world's greatest music to create the world's greatest film. He came damn close.

After seeing the film in early 1968, Mason Williams, writer for the Smothers Brothers and composer of Classical Gas, approached McLaughlin about replacing the music with his (Williams') composition, a successful Top 40 record at the time. The revamped music video was shown on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, first during the summer of 1968 and several times more throughout the year. The video has since passed into legend (some call it one of the very first music videos), while Classical Gas, due in part to the impact of the video, became one of the largest selling instrumental recordings of all time.

The actual video has not been seen since 1968 and, for a multitude of reasons, may never again see the light of day. I have re-created it using the original student film as a guide, re-editing it to Classical Gas. Give or take a few frames, it is nearly identical to the actual video that aired on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour 40 years ago.

Did you know you can see Mason Williams on tour this summer, celebrating the 40th Anniversary of this song? Go HERE!

I love how there is always more to the story... I hope you all enjoyed the discovery with me.

Things that do not suck

2008-07-20T05:35:00.004-05:00

Glow in the Dark Zombie Figures: Nuf said!

Yoda Backpack: Keep Your Things Safe It Will

Cubicle Playsets: For when you want to play "work".

Red Swingline Stapler: he's not drunk, he's just allergic to alcohol

Office Badge Holder

Vojo vs Bawlz

2008-07-20T05:05:00.005-05:00

Sometimes... when you can't sleep... because you must stay awake... you can use a little help in the wide-eye category!

Here's my first offering: http://www.vojoenergy.com/

ThinkGeek has this to say: The Rolls Royce Of Energy Candy
VoJo Mints are high fashion in the caffeinated candy scene. So why, pray tell, is ThinkGeek carrying them then? Because we like mirrors! Especially mirrored boxes! You can do all kinds of stuff with mirrors that you couldn't do without mirrors. Think how far behind civilization would be without mirrors. Now imagine stylish mirrored boxes that sleekly fit into your pocket and come with enough guarana infused candies to energize a platoon! Wow.
Guarana offers a less hectic and jitter-free sensation over traditional caffeinated candies. And when you are done with the candies you can still use the box and even the mirror! Now that's thinking smart.
The most efficient way to experience VoJo Mints is to stick one or two under your tongue and allow it to dissolve (this is called sublingual infusion). This will get the guarana into your blood system faster than it would being digested through your stomach. Each mint has 8 mg of Guarana (which is butt-kick jolt of natural caffeine)! About 82 mints per mirrored carrying case. VoJo mints are sugar-free and contain Sorbitol. Woohoo!
Your choice of either regular or citrus VoJo Mints. Regular are minty, and citrus, are, well, citrusy! Jeez! They are both great!

Now as odd as it may be... speaking with a friend today, I was introduced to Bawlz energy drink and its wonderful properties. I found the above VoJo while surfing through another blog. Completely unrelated discoveries, but perhaps providential...

You know, there are just so many play on words here, I'm not even going to start... but, nicely enough, ThinkGeek also carries this wonderful energy drink. Guarana ROCKS!

Because ThinkGeek expresses it better than I (they've had more sleep at the time of authorship, no doubt, or more Bawlz, whichever):

This is ThinkGeek's favorite caffeinated beverage, and the choice of most of our customers as well. The caffeine (80mgs in each 10 ounce distinctly colored cobalt-blue bottle) is derived from the Guarana berry from the Amazon. This berry lends a sweet flavor to the drink. Scott thinks it tastes like a shirley temple. That's not too far off, but some of us think it tastes more like a fruity Sprite. Really though it just tastes like Bawls and the only way to experience that is to get a case and figure it out for yourselves ;)
The stimulating effects derived from Guarana frequently aren't associated with the kind of stomach discomforts and jitters associated with drinking too much java.
Bawls Guarana is a welcome addition to any caffeine junky's repetoire. It's also the main staple (right in front of Pizza) at most LAN parties. And if you are looking for a real stimulating treat, drop a few BAWLS Mints into your bottle of Bawls and enjoy what has become to be known as 'fizzling blue bawls'.

Choose between a Case (24) of 10 ounces bottles (either Regular or EXXTRA (Sugar Free) or G33k B33R (Awesome Rootbeer!)). Or choose a Case (24) of 16 ounce cans in your choice of regular or Cherry. BAWLS EXXTRA is sugar free, calorie and carb free with only 15 milligrams of sodium. It is sweetened with a combination of Sucralose and AceK (NOT to be confused with Aspartame). And it tastes great! Plus it has 50% more caffeine than regular BAWLS!
Interested in scheduled deliveries?

OK... ordering now...

Expanding Horizons

2008-07-20T04:49:00.003-05:00

I saw this on another blog this AM. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

The singer is Vanessa Paradis. She has been in a relationship with Johnny Depp since 1998. The couple both say it was love at first sight. They originally met in 1994, and Paradis says: "We met in 1994 at a mutual friend's house. He made a big impression on me and during my years of solitude, he never left my thoughts. Then, in 1998, we met again. Three months later, we decided to spend our lives together".

From Wikipedia: "It was love at first sight," Johnny Depp says of that night in 1998 when he saw his girlfriend-to-be, Vanessa Paradis, out on the town in Paris. "I was in the lobby of this restaurant and I just saw this back across the room, suddenly, the back turned and looked at me. And then the eyes that were attached to the back walked toward me and said, 'Hi. Do you remember me?' "I said yes, but I didn't remember because we had actually met a number of years before. But this time, I was caught."

They have a daughter, Lily-Rose Melody Depp (born 27 May 1999), and a son, John Christopher "Jack" Depp III (born 9 April 2002).

They divide their time between houses in the Hollywood Hills, their farm in the South of France, a house in the Somerset village Timsbury, and also own apartments in Paris, Manhattan and an island in the Bahamas. Paradis' 2000 album Bliss, another French chart topper, was dedicated to Depp and their daughter.

This is the song that made Vanessa famous at the age of 14. "Joe Le Taxi"

Sleep. Does a Body Good

2008-07-20T04:12:00.004-05:00

Sleep is an amazing thing. I can go without sleep. Time and time again I prove it. However, I won't say it doesn't hit me eventually. However, I think I'm pretty good at forgoing rest. Probably better than the average. I can still think, reasonable well, until I hit about the 30 hour without sleep stage, and even up to 48 hours I'm doing OK, although my radar gets a little funky and I have a more difficult time reading people.
That said, I've been working on my ninja - cat skills! LOL! Those are the ones where you try and sleep and still keep your wits about you. You can't smell when you sleep, but, you can perfect listening when you sleep. The better you get at your ninja skills, the more rest you can get, the more you can deal with your co-workers and not have to apologize for biting anyone's head off later.
It's the 16 hour shifts that do it. After 12 hours you just simply can't find anything else interesting to do. Even if you had things of interest to do, you're too damn cranky and tired to do them.
But what is awesome is that besides my ninja sleep skills, I have really enjoyed sleeping lately. Does that sound odd?? The last few weeks, everything has come together to allow me the most perfect sleep. Who knew you could work at making sleep better?
Firstly, the bedding. I have the greatest Egyptian Cotton sheets. They are the most gorgeous gold color and stay the perfect temperature. The comforter is gorgeous, black with red velvet trim and gold embroidery, which matches the umpteen pillows on the bed. The new drapes complete the set and block out so much light. I had no idea that even at night it was so light in my bedroom. In the middle of the day it is slightly darker than beginning dusk in there and a magnet for sleep for me.
I also added a down mattress cover. I'd read that people with smaller frames do well with more cushion. I'll agree with that. Once I fall asleep I am out. Without an alarm I can easily nap for three hours or more. Whenever I lay down, I'm out. The last few nights I've been dreaming (Batman) and even those are like viewed through cotton batting. Distant, quiet, hazy. Mostly, I just sleep.
What else has helped is Al. She adds that extra little bit of comfort. She is more substantial weight than the cats and she is in there until I get up. She is very rarely restless, ony if it's much too warm, and this week she learned to just go lay on the rug on the floor if it gets too warm for her. I try and remember to turn the ceiling fan on, but since I don't care for it blowing air on me, I just have to cover up more, but then she's happy.
I've added a few pieces of decor in the room too, but what I really need is a nice print for over the bed. Thats more important than I realized. Sleeping in a comfortable area. Not only where your body is comfortable, but where your mind is too. The dark colors are my favorites. The black, the deep burgundy, the gold. All delightful. Since I can't do anything about the white walls, I am thinking of finding some very light fabric to put on the walls to mute the glaring white a bit. It'll only be temporary I know, but as it is relatively inexpensive and will keep for further use down the road, I think I'll still go ahead with it.
I could go on and on about sleep. It's what is on my mind... obviously. Time for another cat nap.

Gotham

2008-07-19T23:29:00.001-05:00

The Trend Continues

2008-07-19T14:05:00.003-05:00

I went and saw The Dark Knight in the early hours of Friday! It was the most awesome movie!!

It was just me (yes, I went by myself) yet I made quick friends with a nice group of people, James, Anna and Jason. James was saving seats for his friends but there was a third seat that wasn't saved, so I took it, and it wasn't too bad of a spot, either!

I ended up sharing my popcorn and they shared their milk duds and skittles. It was pretty nice.

I'd never been to a midnight showing of an opening movie before. I had such a great time. I felt like it was such a notable thing! A unique experience! A once in a lifetime thing. Sweet!!

Heath Ledger was brilliant, Christian Bale was superb. The story line was solid. The effects were just right, not too flashy or too overpowering, but supportive of the movie.

More later....

Proud of Myself

2008-07-17T16:43:00.004-05:00

Today was a notable day in many ways.

It started last night. I went to bed at 0200, and although I was tired, I couldn't sleep. Some issues kept running through my head. So, after an hour of that nonsense I got back out of bed and tackled the main problem. Long story short, I confronted someone on their behavior towards me, even though I had once before and I made it crystal clear this time. No apologizing on my part, no trying to be nice. I put it right out there in the open.

I went back to bed at 0400 and slept until 0700. Here I'm a little disappointed with myself. I couldn't get out of bed. I tried, I really did, but I was just too tired. I reset the alarm for 0800 and got up then. This meant in order to make the rabbit judging I had to skip my run. With the condition of my ankle still twinge still being an unknown, I figured one more day of rest would be ok. Plus, running tomorrow will put me back on my schedule and I'll just do weights today instead.

I had quite a bit of preparation this morning before I could leave the house. I knew what I wanted to get done and I had to make sure I had everything. Firstly, I was taking my bike. This meant that I had to make sure it was ready, which it was. Then I emptied out my back pack because I was going to go to Walmart after the Fair and then to the Post Office. I wanted to get to Walmart for just one thing, some fabric to finish off my curtains that I had hung on Tuesday. I needed to go to the Post Office, a specific one, because I need to get my Passport.

I went to the Fair for a couple hours, about 0900 to about 1100. Then I went to Walmart, found EXACTLY what I needed and decided to stop and eat something. I haven't been very hungry lately, but I need to remember to feed myself. A quick mini-sub at Subway was just what the Dr. ordered.

Then I went up to my workplace to pick up a few files I needed for my Passport, and then realized I had forgotten one piece of paperwork... but, I at least have everything together for tomorrow now. You ask why I need my Passport... oh darn, I haven't said anything yet, have I?? Well, it'll have to wait a little bit, I want to finish this post first.

Decided to go lay out in the sun for an hour and some. Yup, I'd brought everything I needed for that! Read a few chapters in The Robber Bride... still an awesome book. Absorbed perfect amounts of sunlight!

Then I went home. Those last few miles I was pleasantly surprised at how tired I was!!

I've been home for a few hours... got pics posted from the Fair. Still haven't gotten to posting the pics of Alley from her birthday... hopefully tomorrow. Its time to take a nap if I want to be awake tonight. My ticket is for the 0010 Friday showing... If I'm awake and its possible to still get into the 0315 Friday showing, I may go a second time!!! Time to go nap.

I kind of skimmed over lots of things, so I may have to revisit some of the above issues. Overall though, I got lots of things done, I didn't set foot in the van, I handled issues that were bothering me and I accomplished some things all by myself. I'm really enjoying, more and more, being by myself.

Dane County Fair 2008

2008-07-17T15:34:00.016-05:00

I wanted to make the rabbit judging this morning, and despite a late night last night, I made it on just a few hours of sleep. I'll say more in another post. This post is almost all pictures. Enjoy!! I've never met a bunny that I didn't think was cuddly!! Here are some of my favorites!!

This bunny was getting ready for the show!
Washing the cattle!
Sheep.... well, mostly lambs.

A Dorset I believe. For some reason these covers always make me think of war horses, you know knight with a lance and all that. And I remember a few Dorsets that could have been warhorses the way they bulled through everything.

This guy wanted out, now!
Love little goats!

These two were in a pen with a third goat, the last black one pictured. They were adorable and would have ate the camera had I given them a chance!

This little goat thought I was evil. He was curious, but if I moved too quick, all deals were off. Of course, he captured my heart!!
The kids getting their livestock ready for the exotic show.

Llamas!!

Alpaca!!

I fell in love with this guy above. I'll post a video a bit later I hope! Just beyond cute!
Look at that hair do! Chic...
Piggies!

Horses!

The riders were out practicing!

COWS!!

If I could have taken this cow home with me, I would have!!!
The chickens are always neat. I tend to like the fancy breeds!

The pigeons were awfully cute. I like the frizzle below.

This little boy was cute as all get out. His parents were helping him get a picture!! His calf didn't really want his picture taken! :)

I had a great time! I love fairs. Plus it was really important for me to go and do something I wanted to do, even if no one wanted to go with me!

Whirlwind days off

2008-07-17T01:32:00.006-05:00

Today I had my pulmonary functions test done at the hospital. It was AWESOME!!

First off the tech looks at me, looks at his paperwork, looks back and me and says... "why are you here?" I respond... "Let me tell you exactly why I'm here!"

Bob was great! He explained every test, then I'd blow in the silly tube or breathe in, or whatever was needed and he's say. "GREAT!" He told me at the end that it was really nice to see someone that wanted to do a good job, it's so rare. Most of his patients are either elderly, with breathing problems, or people that are trying to get some sort of disability and are obviously trying to do poorly on the test. He tells them flat out that he can tell that they are faking, but still they try. Anything for a free lunch I guess.

Anyways, the tests went great. In each measurement area it takes other people of my sex, age, and physical height/weight and compares the mean scores against what I was able to do. In every category but one I exceeded the average. Sometimes by quite a bit. So, say 100% is what the average person would get in my category. I was in the 110% most of the time with one that was 141%!! Wow!! Bob said that this should go a very long way in showing that I can breathe just fine. He could tell that I had been running. It was just so neat!! He even gave me my own copy of the report. He said the interpretation should be ready by my Aug 1st resubmit!!

I am on Cloud 9.. I really am! I don't know the reasoning behind anything, I don't know why I couldn't just make it the first time, but, I see how much I've changed. I see how much I am going after the things I want. How much more confident I am. How much more driven and damn... I really like myself!!

So, it was like manna from heaven this afternoon when I got this wonderful e-mail from a retired Marine (MSgt) that has been helping me where he can.

"I love your steadfastness young lady. You really need to be a Marine. The never give up attitude and the willingness to move forward is really motivating. One step at a time and never look back until you reach the top. Let me know if I can help."

Now isn't that just beyond awesome!?! It was in response to a conversation we had been having about the med DQ because of asthma. I simply said, I don't have asthma, never have, and this is what I'm going to do to prove it! Wow... I have to say I am surprising myself quite often!

Meanwhile, on a little bit of a downer note, I pulled something in my right ankle/leg. On Monday I went running and I had noticed a twinge before I went out. Its on the outer edge of my right ankle, starting just above the joint and reaching about halfway up my calf. At first I thought it was just a bruise... but it didnt hurt at all while I was running, just afterwards as I massaged my calves I came across it and it was quite painful.

Didn't run yesterday (darn work schedule) and didn't run today because of the doctors appt early and then didnt want to run in the heat for no reason. But the pain is still there, only it catches me at odd times. Like it doesn't hurt at all right now, but I can rub it and then it hurts. I have no idea if it will hurt when I run tomorrow. We'll see I guess.

Tomorrow I have lots and lots of plans!! Let's see where I get on them.

I want to run in the AM.. its almost 0200 now I need to go to sleep, because after I run I want to be at the Dane County Fair by 0800 to see the rabbit judging. Yes, its nerdy, or whatever, but I dont care, I love bunnies!! Puchi has been so much fun lately, but I'll tell you more about that some other time.

After the fair I need to run to Walmart. I hung curtains in my bedroom. Oh... man, is it beautiful. But I need to add a few more touches to make it even better. I didnt realize how much light came in my windows till I hung these curtains. Its pitch black in there now! I took a 3 hr nap this afternoon by mistake! LOL!

I also am going to stop at Ticketmaster and pick up some tickets to a show coming up. I'm going to go see Band Camp put on by JJO... not sure who all is going with me yet, but, I'm going one way or another. I missed 3 Doors Down and Staind. I'm not going to miss Seether. I wish Amy Lee would be there, but we all know that aint happening!

I have a few other errands to run... and then I need to sleep, because I want to be wide awake for the midnight showing of The Dark Knight!! I already have my ticket!!

OK, but must go to sleep now!!

Apocalyptica - I Don't Care

2008-07-16T19:58:00.005-05:00

There is an awesome video for this song, but they disabled embedding.. so you need to go here to see it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu9uxGP5nL0

The video is amazing.. yes, you need to click and at least see it for a few minutes.

The song is from Apocalyptica but features Adam Gontier from Three Days Grace.

Here's an older version of the song.

The Dark Knight

2008-07-16T11:32:00.001-05:00

My neighborhood

2008-07-16T10:47:00.000-05:00

[full story]

Police: No Third Party Involved In Fatal Stabbing On West Badger Road
Police Say Victims Knew Each Other
UPDATED: 10:08 am CDT July 16, 2008

MADISON, Wis. -- Madison police are continuing to investigate after a woman was killed and a man was injured in a stabbing at an apartment on the city's south side on Tuesday afternoon.
VIDEO: Watch The Report VIDEO: Neighborhood Residents React To Fatal Stabbing
Authorities said that the incident happened in the 900 block of West Badger Road just before 2 p.m. on Tuesday.
Investigators said that they're treating the woman's death as a homicide. The man suffered stab wounds in the attack and was transported to a hospital.
Authorities said on Wednesday that they don't think a third party was involved in this incident and that the situation appears to be a domestic disturbance.
"At this point, we don't believe there's a threat to the community. This appears to be an isolated incident, and those involved knew one another," said Joel DeSpain, spokesman for the Madison Police Department, on Tuesday.
An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday morning.
Danielle Reuter, property manager for an apartment complex across the street, said that she saw part of the incident.
Reuter said that she saw a man running out of the apartment building clutching his throat, with blood covering his body, before police arrived.
"He went over to the front, and the officer was trying to assist him by making him sit down and calm down," Reuter said.
Police said that the 50-year-old man remains hospitalized on Wednesday and he's in custody related to other outstanding warrants. Investigators haven't had an opportunity to speak with him and he hasn't been arrested on any charges pertaining to the death.
Neighborhood residents said that thefts, drug dealing and prostitution have all been problems in the area of the stabbing.
Several years ago, the Burr Oaks Neighborhood Association president said people lived in fear after a slaying. Residents said they hope Tuesday's death prompts the neighborhood to stop tolerating crime.
"It's infested with crime. Every day you come out here, you expect this to happen," said Ruthie Carter, who moved away from the neighborhood because of ongoing crime. "People don't care about other people's property. They don't respect other people."
"It's frustrating being a property manager and having this continue to happen. This is not the first time, and this building has daily police calls to it," Reuter said.
Dale Cox, president of the Burr Oaks Neighborhood Association, said things are better in the neighborhood than they were.
"We've pretty much chased out the drug dealing, or at least pushed it back indoors -- the prostitution, also," Cox said.
And while signs of improvement are visible along the street, he said it will take more work that residents are desperate to see.
"We just want the same quality of life that other areas of the city have," Cox said.
"Everybody that's over here doesn't want to be here. They just don't have the means, you know, to go somewhere different," Carter said.
The neighborhood association president said the nuisance abatement process has been started on the building where the stabbing occurred. That ordinance has already been used to cite the landlord who runs the building next door, WISC-TV reported.
Reuter said she thinks a nuisance abatement ordinance will help make a difference in the area. She said she wants to see changes made so her tenants are safer.
Previous Story:
July 16, 2008: Woman Killed, Man Injured In Madison Stabbing

A Blast From the Past

2008-07-14T22:08:00.002-05:00

This sure brought back memories!

The 3 Musketeers

2008-07-14T11:05:00.005-05:00

Today on Facebook I became "friends" with a girl I went to high school with. In Junior High we were best friends and then in high school, I remember that my two best friends got upset with me, my sophomore year I believe, and we were never close again.

For 15+ years I have wrestled with that. In Junior High we were inseparable. We did everything together. We made it through anything and everything together and I simply don't know what happened. It still hurts.

When I was a sophomore I was messed up. I mean I wasn't your average messed up teenager, well, sure I was, but I was more messed up than the average. I ran away, I skipped school, I failed my classes, I transferred schools and lived with other families. I fought with everyone and didn't give a crap about myself. My school photo from that year would say it all, if there was one. I didn't bother, I think I skipped that day.

I still had people that cared about me, but even those people I was horrid to. I honestly didn't care and I wallowed in my own self pity. I have the feeling some of this is what led to me losing my two best friends.

Whats the worst is that whenever I see these two ladies, I still feel all the uncomfortableness of us not being friends. They were so influential in my life, they epitomized my two sides for the most part. Even now, we are all so similar, sharing many of the same interests. Even though we live 100s of miles apart, and have had no contact with each other, aspects of our lives keep moving along the same line.

Well, Ann and Sarah, if you're out there listening. I often think about the 3 musketeers, I wish I knew where my bracelet was, and more importantly, I still love you guys.

Run

2008-07-14T10:34:00.003-05:00

This is how my last few days have gone. Woke up Saturday morning at 0600, went to worked from 0700 to 1500. Slept for two hours and went back to work Saturday night at 2300. Worked 16 hours until 1500 Sunday afternoon. Went to bed at 2130 Sunday night. (so up for almost 40 hours with 2 hours sleep) Woke up at 0700 today. Went running!! I rock!!

I already have my route for tomorrow all set. I can't wait. I'm going to run two days in a row because the work schedule threw off my exercise schedule.

Broken - Seether and Amy Lee

2008-07-13T14:10:00.003-05:00

Seether Lyrics
Broken - Amy Lee Lyrics

Good vs Bad

2008-07-13T14:05:00.000-05:00

There are two types of people in this world, good and bad. The good sleep better, but the bad seem to enjoy the waking hours much more.

--Woody Allen

Goodbye to Romance

2008-07-13T05:53:00.003-05:00

Heard this song today and it is just so beautiful, so I had to share! Hope you all like it!

---Wiki---

Randy Rhoads
Ozzy Osbourne

Walk it Off

2008-07-11T21:59:00.004-05:00

Still not a whole lot going on here...

Went to the doc for the echo... the tech couldn't even find a problem and she knew where to look. Not enough good things can be said for exercise!

Have a long weekend of work ahead of me! Ugh...

Been having a great time just being me. I'll set aside some time to write tomorrow. I feel bad for neglecting my blogging!

Little to Say

2008-07-08T00:57:00.004-05:00

The last few days I haven't felt much like blogging. I guess there just hasn't been much that I want to share. Sure, there are all sorts of things happening, but, I haven't had any time to sit back and process them. See, you all are about the third in line for my dissemination of information!

But, I do have a little bit to say, and once I begin talking, I know you all will get more than I knew I had inside waiting to get out and be told.

First off, the easiest news to share. The fun stuff!! I received an email from SSgt. Lewis today! This whole time I was thinking the medical disqaulification hinged on my foot (the medical pin) or the heart (the murmur) but, it seems it was the asthma! Asthma... are you kidding me?? I've never had asthma. When I was 14 I used to get real stuffed up when I baled hay and they gave me an inhaler. I never used the darn thing! And I had the flu really bad a few years ago and I was hospitalized.. a long story. Suffice it to say I didn't eat for almost a week, got sick, got dehydrated and low and behold got in the hospital with all sorts of problems, one being I was weak and couldnt catch my breath, so they gave me albuterol (the asthma drug) which reacted severely because I was also VERY LOW potassium and it was one heck of a weird ride for a few minutes. Didnt think I was going to die, but... well, maybe I should have been worried. Anyways... That's my WHOLE experience with asthma. I simply don't have asthma.. so, I'm off to the doctors again to try and document this somehow. Heck... I'm running three miles without even getting winded anymore!

I do go to see the cardiologist tomorrow, which is just as well. It'll just further prove that I'm healthy as heck!!

But oh my GOD!!! I'm just tingling!! I only found out this news about an hour ago. I've been up for almost 20 hours and I worked for 16 of those. I'm tired... and I don't think my brain is really getting it, especially as today has been emotionally a very long day... and here this news comes across my email and all I keep thinking is, "Holy Crap!!! This is going to happen. I frickin KNOW it!! OMG! OMG!! Oh God, please... if you do anything, let this be it!! Let me wear those blues!!" And on and on like that in my head for an hour now!! It's fantastic. I'm going to wake up in the morning and that's going to be the first thought in my head and I'm going to feel like working out to just push it to be ready that much more!!

Oh Damn... I am about 3 seconds from crying, and I just don't cry that often. This is going to happen. I am going to make it. Wow... I hope to look back on this post in a month and say... that was when I knew. Remember then, before I was enlisted? Come on people, lend some good thoughts, eh?!

Let's see... what else happened over the last few days?

Well, I'm thinking I may actually make it happen that I go see 3 Doors Down, Staind and Hinder in concert. I am really really excited about the idea. If I can't work it, I'm going to run a 5k race instead. If I could do both, I would... but that is a scheduling nightmare that I just couldn't tackle today. Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to look at it all again! If I could do both it would be the ultimate weekend!

I spend some time on the phone with Travis today. Thats an area that my brain is still working out the bubbles on. The trick is ironing out the real feelings and brushing away all the chaff and idle ramblings of my brain.

But, I'm falling asleep sitting here... so... I must go get some rest. I'll fill in the blanks a bit more tomorrow. No work... so I should have plenty of time!

Marines kicking ass in Fallujah

2008-07-06T13:13:00.004-05:00

Just in case you wanted to know the lyrics to the music in the background

Seether Lyrics
Out Of My Way Lyrics

Songs that just make you feel like moving!

2008-07-06T04:45:00.003-05:00

Limp Bizkit - Break Stuff

Buckcherry - Crazy Bitch

Shenanigans

2008-07-05T03:53:00.001-05:00

**Ever have a movie clip that just makes you feel happy? This is mine!**

The Robber Bride

2008-07-05T02:17:00.004-05:00

I like to read and I've really been lazy about reading. Just haven't been able to find anything worth reading or the interest to keep through to the end.

On Thursday, I started reading Margaret Atwood's The Robber Bride. It was among the piles of books that I brought to the aparment and for no other reason than that I really liked The Handmaid's Tale, I picked this book up to read. I'd read The Handmaid's Tale when I was a freshman in college as a part of an Honors course.

Anyways, I am LOVING this book. I'm only 50 pages in and I have stopped three separate times and said, "WOW, this book is awesome!" I keep thinking, this book is perfect right now for all the right reasons. Its like it is speaking to all the thoughts jumbling around in my mind. A book chosen for me, for right now.

I won't give too much away, but one of the characters, Tony, a woman, is a military history professor. She has a great outlook on life and very similar interests to my own. Also the book was written in 1993 so the Gulf War was looming on everyone's mind and pervades this book from the start.

I must share this quote that I read today. I hope it encourages you to pick up a copy of the book for yourselves.

"Listen, sweetie," said Roz. "There's just one thing I want you to remember. You know those chemicals women have in them, when they've got PMS? Well, men have the very same chemicals in them all the time."
Maybe it's true, thinks Tony. Otherwise, where would sergeants come from?

Atwood has a humor that I like. Its rough, but you still have to watch for it. I can see the twinkle in her character's eyes when they speak.

Also, her character Tony made this quote in the book. I find it enchanting.

“He either fears his fate too much, Or his deserts are small, That dare not put it to the touch, To win or lose it all.” - James Graham, Marquis of Montrose (1612-1650) My Dear and Only Love.

Shoes and everything else

2008-07-05T01:42:00.010-05:00

I told you I would let you know how shoe shopping went, remember? I went with the Asics running shoes, only through the process of elimination!

I spoke with a co-worker this morning at length about shoes and was really set on the Saucony. On my way home from work I stopped by a store that he'd recommended to go shoe shopping at, Movin Shoes on Park St. Unfortunately they were closed all day, and I had vowed to buy shoes on the 4th. October will see me at Movin Shoes, of not before.

So... I went back to the original plan. Got home, slept for a few hours, got up, packed a bag, got Al in the car and headed to Kohls. Remember, I had a $40 gift certificate that expired on Sat, so I took my list of 4 shoes and went to the shoe department.

Now, because I love Kohls, I already knew that they carried 3 of the 4 brands on my list. I went to look at the New Balance first. Liked those, but they didn't have any in my size. Ugh. Then I went and looked at the Asics. Liked those also, and as luck would have it, they actually had a pair in my size that wasn't butt ugly. So, I bought myself a pair of shoes for $10 and then couldn't resist a couple other things.

What were those other things?? Nosey! Just kidding, I'd love to tell you! I found the most awesome pillows that match the fabric of my living room set perfectly, in just the shade that offsets their color! I couldn't have ordered it custom with better results. I also picked up a few items in the kitchen department. Needed a new basting brush, I decided to get with the 21st Century and bought one of the silicone ones. BBQ chicken on the grill tomorrow sounds like a fitting test run!

I also bought another pyrex covered travel dish. I like to cook and I like to share, and you can't make lasagna and cheesy hash browns in the same dish! LOL!

Oh... so why did I pack a bag?? Because I made it a quick trip to Kohl's. Less than 30 minutes and then I went and laid in the sun at the park for an hour. It was glorious! Of course I would say that about any time that I spend lying in the sun. Alley laid in the shade nearby and kept constant watch. She is such a great dog. I've missed her. She is a source of company and for that I am thankful.

I was pretty down all day long. Just mopey. Felt very alone. I've had lots of time to think and that's not always a good thing. So, I gave in today and let myself think and think and think. Spent the whole day doing things I wanted to do and no time waiting on anyone to do anything. It makes me feel somewhat hopeless, but, it gradually shifted into a feeling of empowerment by the end of the day.

I did everything I set out to do. I slept (8 hours total), I returned emails, I went shopping, I laid in the sun, I exercised (my arms are killing me), I even got more laundry and dishes done and the house a bit cleaner. I have to learn that some days I just have to be happy with that.

Tomorrow is another day. Not sure what it's going to bring, but, things will play themselves out, of that I am certain.

I Met The Walrus

2008-07-05T00:49:00.002-05:00

This was highlighted today on YouTube.

I love the music of The Beatles, always have, but the men that made the music, well, that's different. It's like saying I love cake, so I must love flour and eggs and milk all as separate things. Thats not always the case.

John was a complex man, as I suppose can be said for most great people. His mom was killed early in his life and he was already living with his aunt prior to that. Home life was probably not idyllic. But, he found solace, at least for a little while, in music, and that kept him afloat. Later he found drugs and he also found women, Ono in particular. He was a product of his upbringing and I am very sure, in his heart, more than anything, he did want peace. He wanted comfort and love and the feeling of belonging, as deep down, we all do.

So, enjoy this 5 minute clip of an interview he gave to a 14 year old fan that snuck into his hotel room in 1969. The artistry of the video is alone a treat!

We are all Unique

2008-07-05T00:39:00.001-05:00

I can't take credit for the next lines, but, isn't it comforting to know that other people, famous and infamous, have had the same feelings.

I have these moments
All steady and strong
I’m feeling so holy and humble
The next thing I know
I’m all worried and weak
And I feel myself
Starting to crumble.

The meanings get lost
And the teachings get tossed
And you don’t know what you’re
Going to do next.
You wait for the sun
But it never quite comes
Some kind of message comes
Through to you.
Some kind of message comes through.

And it says to you...

Love when you can
Cry when you have to...
Be who you must
That’s a part of the plan
Await your arrival
With simple survival
And one day we’ll all understand...

Running Web Site

2008-07-04T05:52:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am THAT tired. Blogging is keeping my brain active and me conscious!

But anyways, look what I found!! Is this not the coolest!!

Arboretum
Find more Runs in Madison, Wisconsin

You can click on the map and move it around to see the whole route. If you register with the site you can plot your own routes and keep track of them and their distances. Very neat. Very, very neat!

Movie Time

2008-07-04T05:21:00.003-05:00

Just paging through Yahoo I realized I am falling behind in my summer movie watching.

I still haven't been to see The Incredible Hulk, the second Narnia Movie - Prince Caspian or the latest Indiana Jones flick. Now Wall-e is out and so is Hancock. Wall-e is garnering some great reviews but it looks like Hancock may be falling a little short. But who cares, it's Will Smith. How bad could it possibly be? I enjoyed Wild, Wild West for goodness sake!

Oh, and Get Smart is out now too. Since I became an Office addict I couldn't possibly pass up this movie. Plus I just watched Evan Almighty today and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It took me about 5 times of sitting down to get through the whole thing, but only because of distractions. Despite the choppy viewing on my part I really liked the movie, just as much as Bruce Almighty to tell the truth. In fact I thought Steve Carell did a better job in his role, no disrespect to you Mr. Carrey.

Finally, while browsing I noticed a new Mummy film with Brendan Fraser. Joy of Joys!!! August 1st... in the theatre, got it!

13 days and counting

2008-07-04T05:14:00.002-05:00

Shoe Shopping

2008-07-04T02:32:00.005-05:00

Wow, I am being such a good consumer tonight. I'm actually doing a little research on running shoes. I never ever thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever do this. But hey... If we knew what life was bringing us, it wouldn't be as much fun, now would it?

So... This is what I've been told:

-->
Gender: Female
Weight: 125 pounds
Shoe Size: 10
Use: Training
Motion Mechanics: Overpronator
Arch: Medium

Please keep in mind that these are general recommendations. Your individual preference may be different. Always try on shoes to determine what fits you best.

MOTION CONTROL
Recommended for runners with low arches who are moderate to severe overpronators and who need maximum rearfoot control and extra support on the medial (arch) side of their shoes. Also best suited for bigger runners who need plenty of support and durability.

STABILITY
Recommended for runners who are mild to moderate overpronators and who generally have low to normal arches. These runners tend to need a shoe with a combination of good support and midsole cushioning.

[Go here to find what type of shoe you should use]

I think I have it narrowed down to 4 shoes.

The New Balance 817,

The Adidas Response Control 7,The Asics GEL-Foundation 7,

or the Saucony GRID Stabil 6.

I know the brand names New Balance, Adidas and Asics, but this Saucony is a new one for me. The reviews I read rated it very highly and it is specifically designed for my type of gait. I'm an overpronator. Yes, that's right people... and Extreme overpronator... WATCH OUT! But seriously, it just means I put lots of weight on the ball of my foot, enough so that I have inserts in my shoes from the physical therapist so that we don't do more surgery!! The awesome thing is that ever since I got these orthotics for my shoes I have had absolutely no problems with my feet. When I first started running I thought all sorts of nasty pain was going to surface, but, nothing. That's why its time for new shoes even if they still look pretty.

So what do you do with an old pair of shoes that you shouldn't wear?? If I leave them around the house I'm going to wear them, but I can't in good conscience throw them away! Can I make a planter out of them or something?

I'll let you all know later what I actually come home with.

Whining...

2008-07-04T01:56:00.007-05:00

I'm in a bit of a weird mood, so let me take this opportunity to try and figure out why. You all are just along for the ride!

Its 0200 on the morning of the 4th of July. Happy 4th all! Break out the celebrations and fireworks.

-- Ok, there's reason number one. Not only am I stuck working every night of this holiday weekend, even if I wasn't, I have absolutely no way to do anything fun anyways! No family to hang out with, no friends to party with, no place to go, no one to see. <-- Wow, do I sound whiny or what??

Well, I just spent a great weekend with my family. I could use a ton more time with my sister. I really think we could actually be good friends. I really feel a connection with her. Guess I stopped being so selfish! OK, so there were no fireworks, but we did have lightning bugs! And I drank a few beers and relaxed a bit too. And this is not the first holiday weekend that I have had to work for goodness sake. This is what, my fifth year in this line of work. I've worked every holiday possible.

So why do I feel so damn crappy about this one?

If I had something to look forward to I think I would feel much better. I like having things to look forward to! I was thinking of maybe going to a dog show at the end of this month in Waukesha. It's been a while, February, remember, since I last went to one, but, I don't know how much I really want to go. Should go, yes. But want to go? Not so much.

I have a ton of cleaning around the house to do yet. Moving things from Travis' place has created a bit of a clog up. I really hate that! I need some bookshelves very badly. Anyone have any ideas how to make a cheap bookshelf? When I was a really little kid I had planks of wood and bricks and I'm telling you, I'm thinking of recreating the effect!

I have to wait until at least Monday for someone to fix my stupid shower. I guess it's no HUGE deal, but, it's just one more thing I have to whine about.

-- I've been giving more thought to relocating. I've been giving lots of thought to really pushing and taking more classes this fall then I had orginally thought about. Then I would for sure have a degree next May and I could apply for some of the jobs I dream about with some hope of actually landing them.

Why can't I be satisfied where I am right now? I have opportunities opening up in front of me that I have dreamt about the last few years. You know why!?!? Because more than anything I want to be in South Carolina, sweating my ass off, feeling like a piece of shit! Damn it! There it is, right there. I want it, I can't have it. Chalk that up on the big board with the other things I want and can't have!

It seems like I'm living in three time zones and trying to arrange a conference call. I can't get all of my plans, ideas and dreams to line up in a pattern that is actually doable. If I pursue one thing, I'm going to lose another. If I don't pursue something, how can I really say I am being true to myself.

You're right Jen, I have the whole world in front of me and I'm scared to move. I just don't think I'm ready. Yes, and I'm scared of losing something that I really love. And yes, I know, you think that would be the best thing that I could do. I'm still counseling myself to wait. Wait and See. Stand by... However, I am going to surf through some job listings tonight, and then I'm going to work on my court paperwork some more and then later today I'm going to go buy some new running shoes as the ones I have now are shot.

Quick side note on my shoes. This is the first time that I am going out to buy new shoes when the ones I currently have look just fine. However, I can feel that they've really broken down inside. They've got quite a few miles on them and it's time for new ones, so standby for me to complain about blisters again shortly! Thankfully I bought some stuff at Kohl's a few weeks ago so I have a $40 gift certificate and I won't feel so bad about getting a nice pair of shoes. I like the ones I have now, Avia is what they are I think, but I'm going to try a pair of New Balance. My friend Pat, who runs more than me, recommended them. We'll see!

So... I'll go about my day, and the following days and weeks, keeping my eyes focused on the big goals and trying to keep the little goals in order. I wish all my big goals fit together a little bit easier. I want one of those 10 piece wooden puzzles, instead I got one of those 10,000 piece mothers with the picture on both sides. <-- Yes... me... whining. It's ok though, it's my blog, I'm allowed.

2008-07-03T18:55:00.004-05:00

Some military clips set to Bodies by Drowning Pool

Pentagon Extends tour of Marines in Afghanistan

2008-07-03T17:57:00.000-05:00

Pentagon extends tour of Marines in Afghanistan
- Yahoo! News
5 hours ago - AP - The Pentagon has extended the tour of 2,200 Marines in Afghanistan, after insisting for months the unit would come home on time.
» Full Story on Yahoo! News

3 Doors Down - Away from the sun

2008-07-03T17:45:00.003-05:00

I love 3 doors down, and I've listened to this song 50 times or so, but today I listened to the lyrics and I found it to be pretty darn awesome and fitting for my current mood and life situation.

Three Doors Down Lyrics
Away From The Sun Lyrics

An Outstanding Day

2008-07-03T12:41:00.008-05:00

This has been an absolutely beautiful day, of course, just as I write this a cloud slides over the sun, but that's ok. That's pretty much typical of how things are. The wonderful thing to be reminded of, is that the clouds go away, and sure enough. Here is the sun again, making everything look so green!! The temperature is perfect, the breeze is perfect... extraordinary!

I've been getting up pretty early lately. Alley has been on a little different time schedule then mine, but we're adjusting. If she sleeps in till 0800, I can handle that. Hopefully she'll sleep later and later as things settle down.

But, I got up, in a ok mood. Slept well, had a good day yesterday for the most part and knew that it was run day, which sometimes makes me want to stay in bed, but, my brain persevered!! My legs are a little tired from the workout yesterday, but, that's what workouts are for!!

Took Al out to do her business, got dressed in running clothes and decided to take Al to the dog park. It's a little over two miles to run there, so we did. Al thinks I have lost my mind. On Tuesday she kept looking at me, like, "When are we going to stop doing THIS?" but today, in true Boxer style, she dug in her heels and said, "This is stupid. No more." The last half mile I had to beg her to keep up with me.

Low and behold, when we went into the gates to the park, she had renewed energy! She bounded through the tall grass, ears flopping straight up and she bunny hopped to see over everything. She had a great time and ran around and around and around. I think she especially likes the feel of running through the grass. Must feel fun on her face and chest! We walked around the park twice, probably a good mile and some, and then we ran home. On the way home she kept up, looking resigned to her fate. At least I know she's sleeping well when I'm at work.

Since then the day has just been flying by! I have been having mondo problems with my shower and the maintenance guy has been here more than once to fix it and its worse than ever. The landlord told me to just turn the water off when its not in use. Nice... I have to go into the walls of my apt. now every time I want to take a shower. Annoying!

I just finished up a great breakfast. Toast, juice, bacon, eggs, mmmm.... I know its a bit late for breakfast, almost 1300, but, I don't like to eat when I first get home, and I've been doing my ADHD cleaning today. You know the kind. You start in one room, start a project. See something else that needs to be done, do that. See something else... on and on. I still have dishes and laundry to do, but bills are done and the cat box is clean and all the groceries from yesterday are FINALLY put away!

I also had a little talk with Puchi this morning. While she stayed with my sister I hear she was a little brat. Not hard for her. So this morning she had to succumb to being brushed, thoroughly. She put up a good fight, got me two good scratches on my wrist, but then decided she might as well deal with it. Its ok, the scratches match my cat scratches from Pebbles last night when she and Alley wouldn't leave each other alone.

You all haven't seen Puchi lately, so here are a couple pics.

She wouldn't sit still. She wanted to run around. She's enjoying having free run of the cat's room when I'm home. Sometimes I walk by and she in her cage, sometimes she's lounging against the wall. I think it's good for her to get out and stretch her legs a bit!

I'd say Storm is the only good one, but she's sitting here waiting to lick my plate and I have to keep telling her "no". LOL!!

I added pics finally from my trip to Missouri, you can see them HERE. There are more to come. Should get time yet today. Have a great day all!!!!

Keeping 'em in line

2008-07-02T20:17:00.003-05:00

Thought this was cute!

Blowing more stuff up

2008-07-02T20:06:00.004-05:00

P.S. If someone can help me accurately identify this service branch, I'd be appreciative. The video quality is making it difficult for me.

David Militello

2008-07-02T15:20:00.002-05:00

OK, I don't watch "Prime Time TV". I get my TV from video clips off of Yahoo maybe once a week! However, this America's got talent show gives me something to appreciate each week. This clip is the one that got me this time.

Trip to Missouri

2008-07-02T12:57:00.004-05:00

***I wrote this while I was on vacation, so note that I am writing about June 30th, 2008.***

Today I went to the Missouri State Capitol with my sister and mother. The capitol is located in Jefferson City in the center of the state. It was a nice trip and I really liked how much information and history they had displayed at the capital. Although the capitol is smaller than the one I'm more familiar with in Madison, it was still pretty, with a dome and wings and beautiful stain glass windows.

I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Here I am trying to escape from MSP or the Missouri State Prison, located just a few blocks from the capitol building!

It was a pretty amazing place. It looked like it could have been abandoned, but my family assured me there were prisoners housed there. I think they may have it a little too good in Wisconsin.

This is the gas chamber, however it is no longer in use. Very cool!

The Marine Corps, Blowing Shit Up!

2008-07-02T12:19:00.003-05:00

Holy Fuck!! This is an extremely awesome video. Wow!! I heartily recommend everyone to watch it. The Marine Corps, the best fighting force in the world!!

However, word of caution to those with PTSD, you may want to skip it, seriously. It is intense!

This one however is still very cool, a little less intense but still lots and lots of stuff getting blown up!!

I am an Oak

2008-07-02T11:12:00.006-05:00

Some days it just seems like I can't get a foot up no matter what I try! Something awesome will happen and then, bam! I guess it's a mind over matter thing and my mind is weak, cuz I feel like I'm getting beaten and every time I try and get back up, I get hit again and it is really starting to look appealing to just try and lay there and crawl away later.

I think of myself as a strong person, but, I guess maybe I'm not. I think of myself as a smart person, but, would an idiot know that they were an idiot? Hmmm....

A friend had some very direct things to say to me this morning. Well, the friend part is debatable. I've been questioning if the definition fits for a while. Most significantly because I've been happy while they've been not talking to me. Huh.

Anyways, here's how it broke down:

I don't stand by my word
I'm non-commital
I'm self-destructive
I'm selfish
I make bad choices
I prefer physical strength over mental ability
I won't follow through on my own, someone has to do it for me
I'm sneaky
I'm a bar hopping, drunk

Wow, eh? If anything, you all know I prefer people that say what's on their minds. I never say what is on my mind. It's my worst quality, yet somehow it didn't make this persons list. huh... maybe they don't know me so well.

What can I say though. Do I stand by my word? Not as often as I'd like. Usually I go with the flow, agree to something I don't believe in, all to make it smooth and not rock the boat. I don't want anyone to be upset that is around me. I'll take a beating physically, mentally and emotionally before I'll stick up for myself, before I say how I really feel, and then people think I'm not sticking by my word, or that I'm indecisive, or that I'm unable to make a decision. Unfortunately, had I some courage, I would have come across in the first place as I truly felt and then people wouldn't be so confused by me.

In that way, I guess I am non-committal. I think I used to be loyal to a fault. Through thick and thin, and then something broke and now I'm scared. I'm scared to put my faith in someone and have them hurt me. I'm afraid to trust someone to do the right thing. So, I'll do the best I can and not put all my eggs in one basket and I'll take the consequences as they come. Of consequences I know there will be some, but, what is the consequence of putting your faith in another human being; parent, lover, friend? Experience has taught me that they will use you, walk on you and discard you. Screwed either way.

As far as being a bar-hopping, drunk. Hmm... I was in a bar with my dad, mom and sister in May. I had soda. Prior to that I did go out with a group of friends in March. It was awesome. We had a great time, and although I had quite a bit to drink and we did actually go to a number of bars, I was in control in the important ways, even though I was actually a bar-hopping drunk that night. Alcohol is something. There is no doubt that it has negative uses, but, having a beer, maybe two, in the company of friends and family is healthy and there is nothing wrong with it. I used to drink to excess as often as I could, because it allowed me to lose control, and not care about the control of others. There is no reason for that kind of beahavior for me anymore. But gee, that was for years, prior to six months ago. Now I don't do that, but I'm getting called out for it. Hmm... again, do you really know me?

Am I self-destructive? I guess that depends which way you look at it from. People that have been hurt by me recently, people that are upset that I have stopped doing what they want me to do, namely my husband and my best-friend, think that I am self-destructive. Yet, I see that I am like a child learning to walk. How much of my life have I been responsible for? Well, not counting the last six months? None! My parents dictated every moment of my life growing up, and I let them. When I wasn't grounded, I was involved with a man who made every decision about everything, up to and including the fate of our baby, and I let him. My second husband was different but the same. It was more passive, but, I willingly notified him of my every move and saught his approval for everything. When he didn't give it, I did it anyways, and laid the consequences at his feet. I've never matured past the 14 year old who wants her way but doesnt want to deal with the results.

Now? Well, now I am trying slowly to learn to walk. It's not so easy. I don't know how to make decisions. It's really tough for me. I am still overly concerned about what others think. I wish I didn't give a damn. I wish I said what I thought and walked like I wanted to. It's not like I can call someone up to have them teach me, oh wait... in a sense, yes I can. Come on Marines, if you knew how badly I needed you and in turn how awesomely I would represent you, you'd have me there on that island now!!

Because that's just it. For all my shortcomings, I am still amazing! Some of those shortcomings are in turn what make me who I am. Being walked upon my entire life, being told that I am insignificant, or telling myself that I am, should have made me so much less, but inside, down deep, I have a warrior spirit and I will not give up. I am tough and I will never be beaten down. Everyone seems to be taking swing, and sure, I am in pain, but, this is not the first time that pain has made me stronger and it won't be the last.

I don't want the quiet life in the country. I thought I did. I thought I could hide, disappear, escape. But there is no escape. You have to hit this life head-on, flinch and it'll take you down. So, I'm sorry people, you don't like who I am, that is no longer my problem. That is your problem. It was nice knowing you, but, I'll find someone that accepts me for who I am. I don't need your attitude and I highly doubt I need you.

I used to be the willow branch, bending with every breath of air. Bending so I didn't break. Small and insignificant. But the flexibility made me weak. Now, I swear, I will be the Oak! I will be strong and I won't bend. My roots will go deep and I will remain upright. And even if a huge storm comes along, maybe it'll take a limb, take a part of me, but, I will remain an Oak and I will continue to grow and I will last for a very long time!!!

Gomez : See The World

2008-07-02T11:11:00.002-05:00

This group is playing on the JJO stage at Summerfest in Milwaukee. Looked 'em up and I like the sound and this song in particular.

Traveling

2008-06-26T05:06:00.004-05:00

I'll see you all in a few days. With camera in hand I am off across the countryside again. I'll report in when I can, but just in case, Happy 4th of July a little early. Have a great holiday! Stay safe!

Great Christmas Commercial - Ooo-Rah

2008-06-26T05:04:00.002-05:00

Very cute... very very cute!!

Marines... Unlike any other man

2008-06-26T04:59:00.002-05:00

Came across this video. Seems to be popular agreement to it's validity. Wonder what men say about WMs??

Life as a Marine Grunt

2008-06-26T04:56:00.002-05:00

I found this video on YouTube and I personally think it is awesome. Sure, it may be harsh, but, to this group, to these people, it is the truth, be that whay it may. I can understand that. Think about it. Within each close community there is a slightly different perception that what the mass public thinks. This applies even stronger to high stress jobs. For example, ER doctors, law enforcement, and the infantry. They have their own humor, their own idea of what is funny, and I am thankful to actually understand that. Life is funny, even when it is at it's worst!!

United States Marine Corps

2008-06-26T04:38:00.004-05:00

Enough Said.

What's up with you and the Marine Corps?

2008-06-26T03:59:00.007-05:00

So, faithful reader, you ask, what is happening with the Marine Corps? What an excellent question. One I really hate answering, but, here goes.

My application was disqualified, it seems, for medical reasons. I spoke a little bit about it in this post. I have tried to contact someone from my recruiting office three separate times to get further information, but none of my calls are returned. I found out it was based on medical history when I spoke with the OSO I had dealt with originally. She was unable to provide me specifics however, referring me to my recruiter. Uh huh... still waiting on them. Three times may not seem like lots, but, two of those three times I have been promised a call back.

I am not giving up however.

I am still working out, ride my bike daily, push ups, pull ups, chin ups, sit ups. (Why is exercise all about up?) I've gotten behind in my running. Pure laziness on my part. My lungs are still being worked by the biking, but it uses predominantly different leg muscles, so I REALLY need to get back into running.

My plan is this. Next week I am seeing the doctor for a full physical. When I reapply for enlistment on August 1st (the date I chose to try again), I will have the physical medical transcript with me. I'm hoping that my current doctor will document my good physical health. I also plan on asking to see a cardiologist again, to see if perhaps I can remove that medical hurdle by changing the diagnosis. Why do I think I can get the diagnosis changed? That's explained here.

If.... (I really hate that word) If... I get disqualified a second time, I have a few "Plan B's" in mind. Firstly, I have considered seeking enlistment with the Army. However, even typing it I get this little stone in my stomach. No hard feelings towards any Army personnel, but, they're not Marines. I've also considered a civillian job working with Marines. USAjobs lists many jobs each week that work directly or indirectly with the Marine Corps. Thirdly, I've considered seeking a job change with my current employer. I spoke with my boss about it again this week, yesterday actually, and he encouraged me to apply when the next openings are announced, which should be very soon. Pursuing that line means lots more schooling in my future, but, that's OK. I'm still in line for graduating with my Bachelors degree in May 2009, what's a little more schooling for a second degree.

A few other options I'm still open to are winning the lottery, selling my book for millions and inheriting innumerable wealth. The lottery may be tough since I haven't played in a decade. I'm pretty sure I need to write a book in order to get it published, so that may be out. Inheriting would be great, but, I don't really know anyone with money, but it seems that one may be viable, even if it's a long shot.

"So what you're telling me is that there's a chance" --Lloyd Christmas

Thank you for asking reader. I've been a little disheartened lately, thinking no one is reading. I don't know why anyone would, it's mostly just a record of the ramblings of my mind, but, thank you for reading and thank you more for commenting.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church

2008-06-26T02:38:00.005-05:00

About a week ago I was speaking about the church I grew up in, Saint Peter's Episcopal Church in Ripon, Wisconsin, remember? I attended this church with my grandparents. My mother and aunts and uncles all attended the church when they were young and I have many memories of the church, mostly fond ones.

Today, in my boredom, I began researching the history of the church and you know what I found?? Absolutely nothing!! I visited the church's website, the state historical society, the diocese' website, wikipedia, etc. and found nothing.

So, again, the woman of action that I am, I took it upon myself to correct the problem. First, I wrote a letter to the church via e-mail, requesting contact from someone in the church about historical research. I remember there being numerous pictures on the walls of the church and rectory of the church over the last hundred years as well as all of the presiding clergy. Someone has got to know something.

Then, I did a very cool thing! I created an account with Wikipedia. I am now a registered user and when I have the information, I will write an article for the site. There are already two other pages on wikipedia that reference the church, but there is no article for the church itself. This cannot be left this way.

Finally, I hope you enjoy the pictures I did find of the church. I encourage you to go to this page and see the picture of the interior of the church. I can't transfer it here, so you'll have to click.

Exterior view of St. Peter's Episcopal Church. ca. 1910 [Wisconsin State Historical Society]

View of St. Peter's Episcopal Church. ca. 1864 [Wisconsin State Historical Society]

The seal above the entrance doors.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church, ca. 2003

Pictures above from this site

http://www.galenfrysinger.com/ripon.htm

The Church's web site

http://stpetersripon.com/index.htm

Ripon Chamber of Commerce site that has a few pics of the church

http://www.ripon-wi.com/ripon-wi/page.asp?p=historic_sites&title=Historical+Sites

The Office : Best of Seasons 3 and 4

2008-06-26T02:13:00.002-05:00

Make sure you watch at 2:29 for Andy Bernard's rendition of The Rainbow Connection!

2008-06-26T01:38:00.001-05:00

65%

Created by OnePlusYou

Finally, the proof I've been waiting for. I thought my score would be higher though... I'm always pointing out how the movie people get it all wrong.

Will you survive??

2008-06-26T01:33:00.001-05:00

55%

Created by OnePlusYou

2008-06-26T01:04:00.001-05:00

I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be.
Douglas Adams

[Douglas Adams on Wikipedia]

The Office - American Version

2008-06-24T22:04:00.005-05:00

This is my favorite prank so far!!!

The Muppet Movie

2008-06-24T19:57:00.008-05:00

Yes, I LOVE the Muppets and I LOVE this movie. I stumbled across "The Rainbow Connection" yesterday on YouTube and it made me all sappy. Whenever I sing with Kermit to this song I get a bit philosophical. A bit odd to have a green piece of fabric with a hand and some wires be a major inspirational force in your life.

Jim Henson was an amazing artist and visionary and more than anything I'd like to see another true Muppet Movie, but such is life... and death.

The Rainbow Connection

From Wikipedia:
It has been covered by artists such as Leftöver Crack, Sarah McLachlan, Aaron Lewis, Kenny Loggins, The Dixie Chicks, Justin Timberlake, The Carpenters, Kiki and Herb, Jason Mraz, The Pussycat Dolls, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, Tay Zonday, Jim Brickman, Caroline's Spine, The Dresden Dolls, Willie Nelson (who is actually often incorrectly credited with penning the song), pop-punk band Fifteen, Lea Salonga, Andy Bernard in The Office and many others.

Movin' Right Along

Wikipedia Links:
[The Muppet Movie]
[The Rainbow Connection]
[Jim Henson]
[Kermit the Frog]
[Fozzie Bear]
[Big Bird]

Alex DePue on the Fiddle

2008-06-24T17:31:00.002-05:00

Now that is AWESOME!

Fraggle Rock - Let Me Clear My Throat

2008-06-24T17:10:00.002-05:00

This video was put together really well. Gotta LOVE Fraggle Rock.

Wikipedia Links:
[Fraggle Rock]
[Jim Henson]
[DJ Kool]
[Let Me Clear My Throat]

Disturbed - Divide

2008-06-24T14:09:00.005-05:00

***WARNING -- GRAPHIC LANGUAGE***

My favorite line... "I am one impressive motherfucker. Now, wouldn't you say?"

Disturbed Lyrics
Divide Lyrics

George Carlin

2008-06-24T11:30:00.005-05:00

I had the opportunity to see George Carlin in Appleton when I was in college. I had the opportunity, and didn't take it. Sadly, Mr. Carlin has passed away and I was unable to ever see him in person. He was a great comedian and an activist that I admire.

I know that as the years pass, more and more of the people that I recognize as celebrities will pass away. It's a bit sureal and reminds me that time stops for noone.

Do Carlin's 'Seven Dirty Words' Still Shock?
[ABC News Article]

Comics Recall George Carlin's Genius

Q & A: George Carlin

George Carlin: Wikipedia

Tim Russert remembered

2008-06-24T11:02:00.004-05:00

Almost two weeks ago Tim Russert passed away, remember, today I found an article which published statements about him written by friends and colleagues. I highlighted a few of my favorites. There are statements from Arnold Schwarzeneger, Barack O'Bama, Tom Brokaw and many others.

[full story]

Steve Capus, president, NBC News
Written statement: "This is a loss for the entire nation. Everyone at NBC News is in shock and absolutely devastated. He was our respected colleague, mentor, and dear friend. Words can not express our heartbreak. Our thoughts and prayers are with Maureen, Luke, Big Russ and all of Tim's family."

Jeff Zucker, president and chief executive officer, NBC Universal
Written statement: "We are heartbroken at the sudden passing of Tim Russert. We have lost a beloved member of our NBC Universal family and the news world has lost one of its finest. The enormity of this loss cannot be overstated. More than a journalist, Tim was a remarkable family man. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Maureen, their son, Luke, and Tim's entire extended family."

Some smoldering issues at St. Raphael's

2008-06-24T10:53:00.004-05:00

Last week I put together some information about Saint Raphael's cathedral here in Madison, remember? Well, today it was in the news again. Following is a picture from when it had burnt, finally I located a picture.

[full story]

MADISON, Wis. -- The Madison Catholic diocese finds itself the target of a lawsuit filed by Phoenix Fundraising Counsel Limited.

Phoenix said it was hired to gauge fundraising prospects for a new cathedral, WISC-TV reported.

The study included confidential surveys, according to Phoenix.

Phoenix officials said Bishop Robert Morlino wanted the confidential surveys and they refused to give them to him. Soon after Phoenix was cut loose by the diocese but said it was never paid $350,000 for its work.

The lawsuit states that Morlino "insisted the disclosure of the confidential data, including the names of specific priests who had expressed concerns or registered complaints about Bishop Morlino," WISC-TV reported.

Morlino said in April that he was postponing efforts to rebuild the cathedral, due to the economy.

[full story]

Racing

2008-06-22T15:55:00.004-05:00

I went to the races in Beaver Dam last night with some friends. Forgot my camera... can you believe that? Saw some of the flooded areas in Beaver Dam too. That's when I realized I had forgotten my camera and I did a lot of internal cursing for the rest of the night.

I was a little worried about rain. It hadn't rained on Friday, but there had been lightning. On the way to my house, my friends reported rainbursts. Ugh!! But... they were still willing to go and I was more than happy to attempt it. I was excited not only to get out of the house but it was my first time to the Beaver Dam track which happens to be a dirt track, which I have also never experienced before. It was great!!!

I wasn't sure what to expect from the dirt. Would it make the cars go slower? How would the cars race? I was trying to meld the idea of a tractor pull like track with the oval track of a stock car race and it wasn't really working. I was delighted to find that the track was like a normal stock car track and like a normal paved track it had grooves that were used and outside of those grooves the track got a little tricky.

I also had to bite my tongue, because I have been a modified hater for so many years. I couldn't stand those silly cars. They seemed to handle superbly and are so boring to watch on a paved track. I was delighted to find that they are a ton of fun on the dirt track. I loved how almost all of the classes really had to get a good slide going into the corners. It was awesome! They'd go three wide into the corners and all would go sideways and you'd wonder how they ever made it out and back onto the straightaway. I was in heaven!

It was just a good night overall. Had a great time laughing and joking. Even stopped at Home Depot in Beaver Dam which is going out of business and closing its doors next week to walk down the aisles and laugh, reminded me of being in high school on Walmart trips. Everything was 80% off there. Makes you wonder what their markup is normally!!

When we drove through downtown there were still streets that were impassable, and there are whole blocks that still have police tape up and are evacuated. In a parking lot we saw huge, towering piles of appliances; tvs, washers, dryers, microwaves, refrigerators. I should have had my camera. You just don't see that everyday.

Today it's been pouring off and on for the last hour. Glad I went last night!!!

Marian Anderson

2008-06-19T14:26:00.008-05:00

Earlier this week I was watching a PBS show on Eleanor Roosevelt, remember? During the program, it spoke about Mrs. Roosevelt's stance on segregation and how she arranged for Marian Anderson to sing at the Lincoln Memorial. (see below for more information) Not only did this action speak words about Mrs. Roosevelt's convictions, but the short clip they played of Ms. Anderson singing was amazing. I hope you can appreciate the clips that follow. And when you get a chance, read up on Ms. Anderson. She was a blessing upon this earth for 96 years, not nearly long enough for a voice like hers.

Concert at the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday 1939

An excerpt from her Biography here.

Throughout her life, Marian had experienced racism, but the most famous event occurred in 1939. Hurok tried to rent Washington, D.C.’s Constitutional Hall, the city’s foremost center, but was told no dates were available. Washington was segregated and even the hall had segregated seating. In 1935, the hall instated a new clause: “concert by white artists only.” Hurok would have walked away with the response he’d received, but a rival manager asked about renting the hall for the same dates and was told they were open. The hall’s director told Hurok the truth, even yelling before slamming down the phone, “No Negro will ever appear in this hall while I am manager.”

The public was outraged, famous musicians protested, and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt resigned from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), who owned the hall. Roosevelt, along with Hurok and Walter White of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), encouraged Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes to arrange a free open-air concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for Easter Sunday. On April 9, Marian sang before 75,000 people and millions of radio listeners. About her trepidation before the event, she said:

“I said yes, but the yes did not come easily or quickly. I don’t like a lot of show, and one could not tell in advance what direction the affair would take. I studied my conscience. …. As I thought further, I could see that my significance as an individual was small in this affair. I had become, whether I like it or not, a symbol, representing my people.”

Several weeks later, Marian gave a private concert at the White House, where President Franklin D. Roosevelt was entertaining King George VI and Queen Elizabeth of Britain.

Brahms, Rhapsody for alto

Hear the Wind Whispering

Ave Maria -- Schubert

Summer Reading List

2008-06-19T13:53:00.007-05:00

On Monday I watched the latest episode of The American Experience on PBS. This week's show was on Eleanor Roosevelt. Wow... What a woman! I encourage you to go to this site and see all the information that PBS has included online from the show. There are videos, podcasts, transcripts and reading lists, like the one below. Go Here!!

For a little more information I also included links from the bold topics to wikipedia... the warehouse of all things learnable. :D

Eleanor Roosevelt

Beasley, Maurine H. "Eleanor Roosevelt and the Media: A Public Quest for Self Fulfillment." Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1987.

Black, Allida M. "Casting Her Own Shadow: Eleanor Roosevelt and the Shaping of Postwar Liberalism." New York: Columbia University Press, 1996.

"What I Hope to Leave Behind: The Essential Essays of Eleanor Roosevelt, ed. Allida M. Black. New York: Carlson Publishing, 1995.

Cook, Blanche Wiesen. "Eleanor Roosevelt." New York: Viking Press, 1992, vols. 1-2.

Evans, Sara M. "Born for Liberty: A History of Women in America." New York: Free Press, 1989.

Goodwin, Doris Kearns. "No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: The Homefront in World War II." New York: Simon & Schuster, 1994.

Lash, Joseph P. "Eleanor and Franklin: The Story of Their Relationship." New York: Norton, 1971.

Roosevelt, Eleanor. "The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt." New York: Da Capo Press, 1992.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Allen, Frederick Lewis. "Since Yesterday: The Nineteen-Thirties in America." New York: Harper & Brothers, 1940.

Burns, James McGregor. "Roosevelt: The Lion and the Fox." New York: Harcourt, 1956.

Leuchtenburg, William. "Franklin D. Roosevelt and The New Deal 1932-1940." New York: Harper & Row, 1963.

Morgan, Ted. "FDR: A Biography." New York: Simon & Schuster, 1985.

Schlesinger, Arthur. "The Age of Roosevelt." Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1957.

Stiles, Lela. "The Man Behind Roosevelt: The Story of Louis McHenry Howe." New York: World Publishing, 1954.

Ward, Geoffrey. "Before the Trumpet: Young Franklin Roosevelt, 1882-1905." New York: Harper & Row, 1985.

Theodore Roosevelt

McCullough, David. "Mornings on Horseback." New York: Simon and Schuster, 1981.

Miller, Nathan. "Theodore Roosevelt: A Life." New York: Morrow, 1992.

Putnam, Carleton. "Theodore Roosevelt: A Biography." New York: Scribner's Sons, 1958.

Marian Anderson

Anderson, Marian. "My Lord, What a Morning." New York: Viking Press, 1956.

Hunting, Harold B. "Marian Anderson" in "Rising Above Color." Philip Henry Lotz, ed. New York: Association Press, 1946.

Richardson, Ben. "Great American Negroes." New York: Thomas Y. Crowell, 1945.

Roosevelt, Eleanor. "My Day, February 21, 1936" in "Eleanor Roosevelt's My Day: Her Acclaimed Columns, 1936-1945." Rochelle Chadakoff, ed. New York: Pharos Books, 1989.

Stokes, Anson Phelps. "Art and the Color Line." Executive Committee of the National Board of Management of the D.A.R., 1939.

Mary McLeod Bethune

Bethune, Mary McLeod. "A Century of Progress of Negro Women," in "Black Women in White America: A Documentary History." Gerda Lerner, ed. New York: Pantheon Books, 1972.

Embree, Edwin R. "13 Against the Odds." New York: Viking Press, 1944.

Riggs, Marcia Y., ed. "Can I Get a Witness?: Prophetic Religious Voices of African American Women: An Anthology." New York: Orbis Books, 1997.

Roosevelt, Eleanor. "My Day, May 3, 1952" in "Eleanor Roosevelt's My Day: Her Acclaimed Columns, 1945-1952." David Emblidge, ed. New York: Pharos Books, 1990.

"My Day, May 20, 1955" in "Eleanor Roosevelt's My Day: Her Acclaimed Columns, 1953-1962." David Emblidge, ed. New York: Pharos Books, 1991.

J. Edgar Hoover

Bergman, Andrew. "We're In the Money: Depression America and Its Films." New York: Harper & Row, 1971.

Gentry, Curt. "J. Edgar Hoover: The Man and the Secrets." New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 1991.

Potter, Claire Bond. "War On Crime: Bandits, G-Men, and the Politics of Mass Culture." New Brunswick: Rutgers University Press, 1998.

Louis Howe

Rollins, Alfred B. "Roosevelt and Howe." New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1962.

"Roosevelt, Eleanor. "The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt." New York: Da Capo Press, 1992.

Stiles, Lela. "The Man Behind Roosevelt: The Story of Louis McHenry Howe." New York: World Publishing, 1954.

The Progressive Era

Chambers, John W. "The Tyranny of Change: America in the Progressive Era, 1890-1920." New York: St. Martin's Press, 1992.

Hofstadter, Richard. "The Age of Reform: From Bryan to F.D.R. New York: Vintage Books, 1955.

Cooper, John Milton. "Pivotal Decades: The United States, 1900-1920." New York: Norton, 1990.

The Battle for Suffrage

Evans, Sara M. "Born for Liberty: A History of Women in America." New York: Free Press, 1989.

Detroit Race Riot

Lee, Alfred McClung and Norman Daymond Humphrey. "Race Riot." New York: Dryden Press, 1943.

Shogan, Robert and Tom Craig. "The Detroit Race Riot: A Study in Violence." New York: Chilton Books, 1964.

Greg Hahn

2008-06-19T12:38:00.004-05:00

Remember when I showed you some clips of Greg Hahn, remember? Well since then I've been trying to find a place to go see him live. He'll be in Iowa next week. I am seriously thinking of reworking my plans so that I can be there. I'm supposed to be driving to Missouri, it's practically on the way!

I would like to borrow between $5,000 and $10,000 so that I can have Greg Hahn appear in my home!!! Any offers??

Some clips from Bob & Tom

And if you had any doubts that I could recognize talent...

"Greg Hahn performed for 45 mins at my birthday party, and virtually all 80 guests told me they laughed so hard they cried. I couldn't see them clearly because my own vision was frequently blurred by tears of laughter. He is an enormously talented guy..."
-- Dean Koontz- (World famous, best selling author)

And here's a little bit more information on him!!

An interview from Quirkee.com

Biography from Here:

Here's a guy that brings something to the party - Headlice!

Greg Hahn has parlayed his absurdly energetic, all out style of physical humor, one liners and crowd work, into an act with no waiting for the funny, just immediate pandemonium and panic. His massive likeability and wild stylings have led to numerous television, corporate and college appearances throughout the country.

Developmentally arrested, Greg was raised in South Florida where in high school he amused the Catholic nuns by poking holes in his pockets enabling pens and pencils to shoot out of his pant leg.

As a college basketball player his tendency for half court shots got him benched.

As a Captain in the Marines Corps, Greg kept his men highly motivated and could not overemphasize that camouflage is continuous.

While a buyer for Lockheed Corporation, he thought "Why make $200 a day, when I can be a comedian and make that in a week!"

After several serious jobs where he refused to be serious, Greg turned pro as a stand up comedian.

The career began with several months of brutal open mics and talent shows. He then landed the absurd gig as emcee for a lumberjack show at Six Flags Great America. This career choice supplied him with a microphone and four huge audiences a day, "I had to do jokes while a bunch of drunks ran around swinging axes. We had a log rolling dog that couldn't even swim, she would fly off the log and sink. We named her Splash."

Soon afterwards, he worked as an actor in the Wild Wild Wild West Stunt Show at Universal Studios. "For $20 an hour, I'd run out, fall down a few times and get hit in the head with a stick".
At night he continually honed his stand up skills and after several years of club work moved his career to New York City. While in New York, Greg developed into a touring headliner and co-starred in the independent film Tomorrow Night which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Then, after successful shows at the Montreal and Chicago Comedy Festivals, Greg enjoyed hit television appearances on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Make Me Laugh (5 episodes) and Louis CK's Pulp Comics. He recently had wild appearances on 30 Seconds to Fame and Cedric the Entertainer Presents with the Fox network and the CBS hit show Star Search.

Continuing to advance his career in film and television, Greg has since relocated to Los Angeles where in between shows and acting classes he knocks out pull-ups, and goes ballistic on his drum set.

The Master Laughing

2008-06-19T09:05:00.005-05:00

There was an interesting news article today on Yahoo. The article was about this painting.

It's an amazing painting and I had to stop to read the article, which you can read here. I am an Antiques Roadshow fan, and the article sparked the same kind of "really??" that show gives me.

Never being one to leave anything alone, I had to do some digging. My curiosity triggered, I must learn more. Here are a few more paintings, self-portraits, I found. The use of light is amazing.

I also encourage you to read the Wikipedia article. There is an additional self-portrait there.

I love art, yet I don't know that much about it.

Once I was in Tulsa, Oklahoma with my grandparents and we went to an art museum. Looking through the web, I believe it was the Philbrook. I don't remember much of the museum, mostly the stautary and gardens, but I do remember seeing some of Monet's work and it has always stuck with me.

I believe I love good art the same way I love beautiful music. I don't know much about it, but when I see it or hear it, I know that it is important, masterful, irreplaceable.

Perhaps I should make an effort to get to some art fairs, showings, museums. You can never have too much culture. Culture, after all, is really just perspective and knowledge that you didn't have before. If you're just exposing yourself to the same ol' thing, than it isn't culture.

St. Raphael's Cathedral

2008-06-18T08:20:00.005-05:00

I love old buildings. Stone, brick, wood, marble. I love their presence, how they were built, the aura they present.

Having lived rurally for most of my life, I am a fan of old barns, I would love to produce a calendar or a photo presentation some day, but even more so, I love old stone buildings. In Wisconsin, old stone buildings usually mean churches.

I grew up in the country and traveled into town to go to an old Epsicopalian church in Ripon, Wisconsin, Saint Peter's, with my mother and grandparents. The church represented family and celebrations and that special time with my grandparents. I loved the smell of the interior and the beauty of the sun through the stain glass windows. I stared at the statues for hours and I can still see every detail in my mind, where every candle was lit and in what order.

In the news recently in Madison is the tearing down and reconstruction of a Roman Catholic Cathedral on the Isthmus. I've spent more than one occassion looking at the structure, remember, and I was fascinated when they started taking it apart. Following is what I've pieced together of it's history. Follwing are some pictures I've had the pleasure of taking. I wish I had had my camera earlier, before they removed the steeple.

Saint Raphael’s Cathedral
The cathedral parish for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Madison
222 W. Main St. - Madison, Wisconsin
Timeline
1840’s - Irish immigrants settled Madison
Aug 15, 1842 - Mass offered by Father Martin Kundig at the parish named after the Archangel Raphael. Land was donated by Governor James Duane Doty. Doty was a friend of Samuel Mazzuchelli.
1842 - 1853 - the parish did not have a church of its own. Mass celebrated in home and in the state capitol building.
1853 - Father Francis Etchmann began the process of building the church.
1854 - Corner stone was laid. Archbishop John Henni of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee dedicated the building.
1885 - Bells and Spire were built.
January 9, 1946 - Pope Pius XII created the Dicoese of Madison, includes 11 counties in the south and southwest areas of the state. Territory was taken from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and the Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse. St. Raphael’s was then chosen as the Cathedral Parish for the Madison diocese. Msgr. William Mahoney was the pastor.
March 14, 2005 - building burned. The fire caused the roof to collapse, however the walls and steeple remained standing. There was extensive water damage. The mosaics sustained smoke and water damage and the stained glass windows were damaged but still in place. The fire was caused by arson. 41 yr old William J “Billy” Connell was arrested for arson, burglary and bail jumping. Mr. Connell said that he had broken into the Cathedral using a crowbar, stolen a bottle of wine and then “messed around with some stuff”. The fire had started in an office/storeroom under the spire and the crowbar was found there. Mr. Connell has a history of mental problems and had been previously been in trouble with the law.
June 10, 2007 - Bishop Morlino announced his intention to to have the old structure torn down and replaced with a new and larger Cathedral building that could seat approx. 1,000 people.
June 11, 2007 - Mr. Connell was sentenced to 15 years in prison followed by 15 years of close supervision.
March 13, 2008 - A press release from the Diocese of Madison announced that St. Raphael’s would be demolished during the summer of 2008. The spire, the three bells from the steeple, three mosaics from the sanctuary, the marble sanctuary appointments, one large undamaged stain glass window, three smaller undamaged semicircular stain glass windows, some ornamental stonework from around the doorways and some other stone from the building are all planned to be “saved”. No design or timeline for the new construction has been released.

[Wikipedia] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Raphael

[Wisconsin State Journal] Ashes and Ruins http://www.madison.com/archives/read.php?ref=/wsj/2005/03/15/0503150022.php

**More sources to come**