Last night, I fell asleep very quickly. Almost as soon as my head hit the pillow. We'd been planning to wake up around 12:30am and trying to catch a glimpse of Mars since it hasn't been this close to Earth in 60-70,000 years. Well, we didn't make it up. I was zonked out. But, I had very vivid and real dreams about waking up and looking out of the window in my underwear to see what the view would be.
First, in my dream, I went to the window in our bedroom. It faces East towards more apartment and there's a lot of artifical light making it difficult to make out any stars. Well, I remember seeing the Red Planet. It appeared closer and bigger than I thought it would. I thought it would just be a spec of red shimmer, but I could make out a rough red terrain. My naked eye could make out vast seas of red rock craters, looking much like the moon's surface. Mars was partially in shadow. While remember thinking it looked like a very minuscle blood moon, the War God kept his distance. I went back to bed in my dream.
Later, I dreamt of the Martian planet again. This time, I got of my bed and drearily walked into the kid's room. He was in a heavy sleep. The window here faced west and less street light made making out the night sky an easier task. There was Mars again, much more brilliant than before. It seemed bigger without a shadow to hide it but still he didn't come closer. The seas of craters were much easier to make out. I stood in awe of the heavenly site for a few moments and went back to bed.
This morning, I am feeling very sleepy. That and how vividly I remember these dreams makes me wonder if I was sleepwalking or having some sort of out-of-body experience. Since I haven't been know to sleepwalk (hit, yes, walk no), perhaps I did have an OOBE. Though, I have real difficulty believing that. My subconscious and conscious were most likely working hand in hand. The conscious me knowing that I wanted to see the night sight and the subconscious me agreeing to make it happen.
Thursday, August 28, 2003
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
One Big (Fucking) Lie
Sexual Powertrip (One Big Lie) Bla Bla*
From the album "History for Sale"**
by Blue October
I'm sorry for the way I treated you.
I'm stuck in my ways to just run
In the opposite way when things get comfortable.
I'll keep on licking 'til your flavor is gone.
But it's getting more impossible
To keep a straight face
And be trusted with
I love you.
(One Big Lie)
I love you.
(Blah blah blah blah blah blah)
Don't trust me words when I'm in bed with you.
I'll bring the message but the message gets lost.
Yeah, you opened your legs and maybe
I promised you...
You didn't notice that my ankels were crossed.
But it's getting more impossible
To keep a straight face
And be trusted with
I love you.
(One Big Lie)
Can you show me how to treat someone?
I don't recall ever learning how.
Because I keep fucking up.
I keep fucking up.
*The views presented in this song do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the management at Everything Grey. They do, however, think this song kicks ass all over the place.
**Management likes the irony of an CD called "History for Sale" being all about former relationships.
From the album "History for Sale"**
by Blue October
I'm sorry for the way I treated you.
I'm stuck in my ways to just run
In the opposite way when things get comfortable.
I'll keep on licking 'til your flavor is gone.
But it's getting more impossible
To keep a straight face
And be trusted with
I love you.
(One Big Lie)
I love you.
(Blah blah blah blah blah blah)
Don't trust me words when I'm in bed with you.
I'll bring the message but the message gets lost.
Yeah, you opened your legs and maybe
I promised you...
You didn't notice that my ankels were crossed.
But it's getting more impossible
To keep a straight face
And be trusted with
I love you.
(One Big Lie)
Can you show me how to treat someone?
I don't recall ever learning how.
Because I keep fucking up.
I keep fucking up.
*The views presented in this song do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the management at Everything Grey. They do, however, think this song kicks ass all over the place.
**Management likes the irony of an CD called "History for Sale" being all about former relationships.
Tuesday, August 26, 2003
Net Handles
This post at Hatley.Org got me thinking about my various net handles. I was going to leave comment over there, but then I realized I'd written a book and didn't to leave a novel in the comments section. So, here ya go...
The Net Handle for me has been a way to help me keep some aminimity while showing a little personality. My very first handle was hootie o'c - never capitalized. Why? I don't really know. It was just different. The name came from a RPG character I played with. Cyberpunk was the game and since the game involved pretending to surf the 'net and hack, I thought it was rather appropriate. Hootie O'Conner was his name. And - as I'm sure you can probably guess - yes, Hootie and the Blowfish were just hitting it big at the time I named the character.
I used hootie o'c for a while because, really, who the heck is gonna use that?? I really don't like using my name because there are so many of us. And I really hate the thought of being M*******L***1234567@whatever.com. My email address was always hootieoc@whateverISPIwasusing.com.
That was 8 or so years ago back in college. The internet was just a fledgling and mostly text. This was the handle I used at the chatrooms I'd frequent. But, I grew more mature and hootie o'c just didn't fit the bill any more. After hootie, I was space dog,but that didn't fit or last very long.
I can't remember exactly when I came up with the next name. I'm not quite sure how it stuck, but I'll try to explain. I needed a new name for whatever reason, like I said hootie o'c didn't cut it anymore. I remember I was living in Bum Fuck, Louisiana at the very beginning of my career. The friends I did have lived over 30 minutes away. For people living in a small town, that's a long drive. Now, that I live in Concrete Central, 30 minutes is a drive to the grocery store. Anyway, I, basically, had no friends in town and my co-workers weren't the type of folks I wanted to hang with. Needless to say, I became lonely and depressed. The internet was a great tool for getting out, as strange as that statement looks.
While in this depressed state, I came up with Sawrowe - quite simply, a respelling of sorrow. That was a depressing time in my life and, true to form, the name fit. It's kind of dark and implies a little mystery, don't you think? And, it has stuck with me. But I'm am no longer sorrowful, and it doesn't quite fit anymore.
Funny, in all my years of using Sawrowe, I've never had to be sawrowe69@whatever.com, and that's mainly why I have kept that handle. There has only been one time that someone confused me for someone else. From this AOL IM conversation, I gathered that there is a woman with the initals S.A.W out there who lives in a town called Rowe.
As I said before, Sawrowe doesn't quite fit anymore (though, I have been known to use the name for new RPG characters and other games). So, on chatboards that I've been around for while, it has evolved to 'Rowe. That's pretty hip (like me, right???) and is a change that fits without being a change at all. I was thinking the next evolution of this handle will be The 'Rowe - as in, "The 'Rowe doesn't like to eat broccoli," or, "damn, The 'Rowe came dance!"
Here, I go by ML. Much more personal, as this is a much more personal site, but still keeps my aninimity fairly safe. Those who know me know what it is. Those that don't can try and learn - and I urge you to 'cause it gets lonely still. Eventually, if I get friendly enough to trust you, you'd learn at least my first name. Learning the last name requires an incredible amount of trust.
ML is becoming very comfortable. I've started using it at places that don't know The 'Rowe. Interesting, the parallels between my handles and my life. It's like I'm becoming more and more comfortable with myself.
The Net Handle for me has been a way to help me keep some aminimity while showing a little personality. My very first handle was hootie o'c - never capitalized. Why? I don't really know. It was just different. The name came from a RPG character I played with. Cyberpunk was the game and since the game involved pretending to surf the 'net and hack, I thought it was rather appropriate. Hootie O'Conner was his name. And - as I'm sure you can probably guess - yes, Hootie and the Blowfish were just hitting it big at the time I named the character.
I used hootie o'c for a while because, really, who the heck is gonna use that?? I really don't like using my name because there are so many of us. And I really hate the thought of being M*******L***1234567@whatever.com. My email address was always hootieoc@whateverISPIwasusing.com.
That was 8 or so years ago back in college. The internet was just a fledgling and mostly text. This was the handle I used at the chatrooms I'd frequent. But, I grew more mature and hootie o'c just didn't fit the bill any more. After hootie, I was space dog,but that didn't fit or last very long.
I can't remember exactly when I came up with the next name. I'm not quite sure how it stuck, but I'll try to explain. I needed a new name for whatever reason, like I said hootie o'c didn't cut it anymore. I remember I was living in Bum Fuck, Louisiana at the very beginning of my career. The friends I did have lived over 30 minutes away. For people living in a small town, that's a long drive. Now, that I live in Concrete Central, 30 minutes is a drive to the grocery store. Anyway, I, basically, had no friends in town and my co-workers weren't the type of folks I wanted to hang with. Needless to say, I became lonely and depressed. The internet was a great tool for getting out, as strange as that statement looks.
While in this depressed state, I came up with Sawrowe - quite simply, a respelling of sorrow. That was a depressing time in my life and, true to form, the name fit. It's kind of dark and implies a little mystery, don't you think? And, it has stuck with me. But I'm am no longer sorrowful, and it doesn't quite fit anymore.
Funny, in all my years of using Sawrowe, I've never had to be sawrowe69@whatever.com, and that's mainly why I have kept that handle. There has only been one time that someone confused me for someone else. From this AOL IM conversation, I gathered that there is a woman with the initals S.A.W out there who lives in a town called Rowe.
As I said before, Sawrowe doesn't quite fit anymore (though, I have been known to use the name for new RPG characters and other games). So, on chatboards that I've been around for while, it has evolved to 'Rowe. That's pretty hip (like me, right???) and is a change that fits without being a change at all. I was thinking the next evolution of this handle will be The 'Rowe - as in, "The 'Rowe doesn't like to eat broccoli," or, "damn, The 'Rowe came dance!"
Here, I go by ML. Much more personal, as this is a much more personal site, but still keeps my aninimity fairly safe. Those who know me know what it is. Those that don't can try and learn - and I urge you to 'cause it gets lonely still. Eventually, if I get friendly enough to trust you, you'd learn at least my first name. Learning the last name requires an incredible amount of trust.
ML is becoming very comfortable. I've started using it at places that don't know The 'Rowe. Interesting, the parallels between my handles and my life. It's like I'm becoming more and more comfortable with myself.
Monday, August 25, 2003
Feel The Force
Ladies and Gentlemen, Everything Grey is disturbingly proud to present to you a wonder of flash animation. We must warn you the following may SHOCK and will surely disgust. That's why we're telling you about it.
It was discovered a long time ago, and after only one viewing, stomachs ached from laughing too hard, cheeks were stretched beyond their limits. And, yet, at the same time, eyes turned in disgust. But as time passed, it's power was forgotten and subsequently lost (probably after a cease and desist order from Skywalker Ranch, I imagine). But, now I have discovered it again and all its wonderific glory ready to share with you.
Now, without further adieu, I bring you...
Yodahump
Parential discretion is advised.
It was discovered a long time ago, and after only one viewing, stomachs ached from laughing too hard, cheeks were stretched beyond their limits. And, yet, at the same time, eyes turned in disgust. But as time passed, it's power was forgotten and subsequently lost (probably after a cease and desist order from Skywalker Ranch, I imagine). But, now I have discovered it again and all its wonderific glory ready to share with you.
Now, without further adieu, I bring you...
Yodahump
Parential discretion is advised.
Sunday, August 24, 2003
Polo No-No
I'm noticing a disturbing trend in today's fashion. More and more men are buttoning up their polo or golf shirts all the way up to the collar and I think this looks ridiculous. Guys, this DOES NOT make you look more respectable. It makes you look like a dork. Dork, as in, one step from pocket protector and taped-up glasses. Yes, they have buttons, but you look much cooler with only one, maybe two, actually buttoned. This has been a public service announcement from one straight guy*.
*This straight guy as absolutely no fashion sense.
*This straight guy as absolutely no fashion sense.
Thursday, August 21, 2003
Vacation, All I ever wanted
My work schedule is a nothing close to normal. That's TV for you. I work a late shift (12-9p) Sundays and Mondays and a regular 8:30-5:30p day Tuesdays through Thursdays. Fridays and Saturdays are my weekend. Sundays are so easy, it's almost like working four days a week. Almost.
Well, I've got the rest of my remaining vacation days planned except for one personal day. I can take that at any time as long as it isn't in October or November sweeps. That's another thing about TV - no vacations during sweeps. Anyway, that pretty much leaves me September and December to take this one day. There's no reason to take it in December as I have 10 days around Xmas off. So, I want to take it in September. Specifically, Sunday, September 21st. The plan is to go to the Austin City Limits Music Festival that weekend.
Now, there is the occasion where I get a co-worker to work a Sunday for me and in exchange I'll work a Friday for them. We each still get our 5 days of work in. I could have done this to get that day off, but I really don't want to work an extra Friday. I want to use the personal day - that's what it's for. So, I filled out the required paperwork requesting Sunday, September 21st off.
Miss Management now wants me to do a switcheroo instead. Which is perfectly understandable. Why have someone off and another working extra if you don't have to? Only, that's what is supposed to happen when someone takes a personal or vacation day - someone has to fill their shoes.
On one hand, I get the day I want off AND still have a personal day to take. But, on the other hand, it's not like I have any other reason to take the personal day at another time (besides having a lazy day off). From a work perspective, wouldn't it be easier to have one person work this extra day - a day that, in truth, there's about 3 hours of work to be done (a person could walk in at 3:30p and leave at 6:30p)? Or would it be better to switch people's schedules around and still have a day that needs to be looked after when someone takes a day off at another time?
Granted, I'm being a bit of a dick by taking a Sunday off. I'm the only one who works Sundays. Everyone else is Monday - Friday, so when I take a Sunday off, someone has to work 6 days. But, well, ya know, it's my friggin' day to take off. And when we switch, both of us get a 3 day weekend and a 1 day weekend.
So what's a guy (who really feels like being a dick for various reasons) to do?
Well, I've got the rest of my remaining vacation days planned except for one personal day. I can take that at any time as long as it isn't in October or November sweeps. That's another thing about TV - no vacations during sweeps. Anyway, that pretty much leaves me September and December to take this one day. There's no reason to take it in December as I have 10 days around Xmas off. So, I want to take it in September. Specifically, Sunday, September 21st. The plan is to go to the Austin City Limits Music Festival that weekend.
Now, there is the occasion where I get a co-worker to work a Sunday for me and in exchange I'll work a Friday for them. We each still get our 5 days of work in. I could have done this to get that day off, but I really don't want to work an extra Friday. I want to use the personal day - that's what it's for. So, I filled out the required paperwork requesting Sunday, September 21st off.
Miss Management now wants me to do a switcheroo instead. Which is perfectly understandable. Why have someone off and another working extra if you don't have to? Only, that's what is supposed to happen when someone takes a personal or vacation day - someone has to fill their shoes.
On one hand, I get the day I want off AND still have a personal day to take. But, on the other hand, it's not like I have any other reason to take the personal day at another time (besides having a lazy day off). From a work perspective, wouldn't it be easier to have one person work this extra day - a day that, in truth, there's about 3 hours of work to be done (a person could walk in at 3:30p and leave at 6:30p)? Or would it be better to switch people's schedules around and still have a day that needs to be looked after when someone takes a day off at another time?
Granted, I'm being a bit of a dick by taking a Sunday off. I'm the only one who works Sundays. Everyone else is Monday - Friday, so when I take a Sunday off, someone has to work 6 days. But, well, ya know, it's my friggin' day to take off. And when we switch, both of us get a 3 day weekend and a 1 day weekend.
So what's a guy (who really feels like being a dick for various reasons) to do?
Monday, August 18, 2003
Spikey TV
Is it just me, or does the logo for Spike TV - The First Network for Men - look a little ...what's the word... queer?
I think it's a little too pretty for the station that brings you WWE programming and Stripperellla. In fact, a font like the WWE uses for its logo would have been a much better choice. That has male attitude.
Spike TV's logo is prissy. Like you should include two snaps after you say the slogan. Honestly, it looks like it got the Queer Eye treatment... which, by the way, I would looooooove to be on... as the Straight Guy, numbskulls!
I think it's a little too pretty for the station that brings you WWE programming and Stripperellla. In fact, a font like the WWE uses for its logo would have been a much better choice. That has male attitude.
Spike TV's logo is prissy. Like you should include two snaps after you say the slogan. Honestly, it looks like it got the Queer Eye treatment... which, by the way, I would looooooove to be on... as the Straight Guy, numbskulls!
Sunday, August 17, 2003
Weirdness
This was a very strange call I got on my cell phone. I didn't recognize the number, but I picked it up anyway. The lady on the other end told me that she was involved in a car wreck on Saturday and the person who rear-ended her gave her my name and cell phone information as a way to contact him. From listening to her story, it sounds like she was scammed. The guy didn't have any insurance and didn't want her to call the police to report the accident. He apparently told her to have the damage appraised and he would pay for it. She kept saying it wasn't a big deal, that the wreckage was nothing more than a little crack in the bumper. She didn't have his name, unless he was claiming to be me. And he drove a truck. I drive a truck, too, but can go into more detail about what kind of truck, the color, etc. And I have insurance. Not to mention, I was filming a movie from 8am-6pm and didn't drive most of the day, much less get into a wreck.
It seemed like she was under the impression that a friend of mine was the one who wrecked her. She kept saying that she had his license plate number and could get his infomation from the police and DMV. I got the impression she was trying to say she could get his information anyway, but it would just be easier for me to give her his info. Only problem was I have no friggin' clue as to what the hell she was talking about. I can't think of any friends who drive a truck muchless have so little scrupples as to scam a lady they hit from behind.
I'm starting to worry about who has my information and how they got it to give. Am I the one being scammed her? Could I be the victim of an identity thief? She got another number from this accidental con-man. When you call it, the phone rings once and then hangs up. That's a little strange. No, that's a lot strange.
Well, I have the lady's home number in my cell phone and a google search gave me her address. She has an Indian accent. I just don't know what to make of this. Other than someone is being scammed.
It seemed like she was under the impression that a friend of mine was the one who wrecked her. She kept saying that she had his license plate number and could get his infomation from the police and DMV. I got the impression she was trying to say she could get his information anyway, but it would just be easier for me to give her his info. Only problem was I have no friggin' clue as to what the hell she was talking about. I can't think of any friends who drive a truck muchless have so little scrupples as to scam a lady they hit from behind.
I'm starting to worry about who has my information and how they got it to give. Am I the one being scammed her? Could I be the victim of an identity thief? She got another number from this accidental con-man. When you call it, the phone rings once and then hangs up. That's a little strange. No, that's a lot strange.
Well, I have the lady's home number in my cell phone and a google search gave me her address. She has an Indian accent. I just don't know what to make of this. Other than someone is being scammed.
Friday, August 15, 2003
Friday Fizzle My Nizzle
The kid started school yesterday. 5th grade. The teacher gave a speech about how all the kids need to have their parents buy them deodorant. We were already ahead of the game. He's been more stinky than just little boy smell. I guess by this time next year I'll have to give him ... the talk. Um... help.
A little over a month ago, we had to borrow a little bit of money from my parents. The long story short is my wife's paychecks couldn't be cashed at the time because the FBI or IRS seized the company she works for assets. Something about unpaid taxes. She's getting paid now, so we're not in an financial trouble or anything. Though, at the time, we had to ask my parents for a little tiny loan to help pay one auto insurance payment. We were sent a check for twice as much as we asked for. Parents can be both a blessing and a curse.
I sent my folks a check for half of what they sent us. I've got no problem paying them back. That's what a loan is. They got the check yesterday and dad called to say he tore it up and he'll do the same to any others I send. Blessing and a curse. Try to do the right thing and pay them back. Curses! But maybe we'll be able to get a new computer a little sooner. Can't you see I'm trying to be a responsible person?
Saw Freddy Vs Jason and there's not much I can ruin in the way of spoilers. People die, some by machete, some by razon-blade claws. Some are killed while fucking. But who wins, Freddy or Jason? Well, I won't spoil it, but I think the real winner is the audiences who love Freddy and Jason. Needless to say, this really isn't a horror flick and if you go into it thinking that, well, you're gonna be one unfrightened fool. After 8-10 sequels a-piece, this could only have been bloody and campy. You would have thought that the coolness factor would go to Freddy, but I found I was rooting more for ol'Hockey-head. A *ahem* bloody good flick. My question is how to package the box set. Do you sell Freddy vs. Jason with the Nightmare box set, the Friday the 13th box sex, both, or combine them all in the mother-of-all DVD sets?
A little over a month ago, we had to borrow a little bit of money from my parents. The long story short is my wife's paychecks couldn't be cashed at the time because the FBI or IRS seized the company she works for assets. Something about unpaid taxes. She's getting paid now, so we're not in an financial trouble or anything. Though, at the time, we had to ask my parents for a little tiny loan to help pay one auto insurance payment. We were sent a check for twice as much as we asked for. Parents can be both a blessing and a curse.
I sent my folks a check for half of what they sent us. I've got no problem paying them back. That's what a loan is. They got the check yesterday and dad called to say he tore it up and he'll do the same to any others I send. Blessing and a curse. Try to do the right thing and pay them back. Curses! But maybe we'll be able to get a new computer a little sooner. Can't you see I'm trying to be a responsible person?
Saw Freddy Vs Jason and there's not much I can ruin in the way of spoilers. People die, some by machete, some by razon-blade claws. Some are killed while fucking. But who wins, Freddy or Jason? Well, I won't spoil it, but I think the real winner is the audiences who love Freddy and Jason. Needless to say, this really isn't a horror flick and if you go into it thinking that, well, you're gonna be one unfrightened fool. After 8-10 sequels a-piece, this could only have been bloody and campy. You would have thought that the coolness factor would go to Freddy, but I found I was rooting more for ol'Hockey-head. A *ahem* bloody good flick. My question is how to package the box set. Do you sell Freddy vs. Jason with the Nightmare box set, the Friday the 13th box sex, both, or combine them all in the mother-of-all DVD sets?
Wednesday, August 13, 2003
Fox vs. Franken
Fox News is sueing satirist Al Franken over the title of his new book. It's called "Lies, and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right" Fox says they copyrighted the phrase "Fair and Balanced" and Franken's use of it constitutes copyright infringement. As pointed out in the article, Fox lawyers believe that Franken's use of the word "Balanced" with "and" as well as "Fair" in front of it would "blur and tarnish" their good name and slogan.
Fox News... is worried... that someone will think... wait for it... their reporting is not completely fair and balanced. Ain't that a hoot? Guess what Fox? People already think that. A political satirist's book isn't gonna change that perception.
They go on to call Franken - in the actual court papers mind you - "either intoxicated or deranged" (stemming from an incident where Franken is accused of verball attacking Bill O'Reilly at a press correspondents' dinner) and a "'parasite' who hopes to use Fox' reputation to confuse the public and boost the sales of his book." Can you get more confusing than Bill O'Reilly? I'm not much of a news person but I have trouble believing any of his hype. As far Franken's books sales... Guess what? Sales are rather drastically up since the lawsuit was filed.
The Fox boys also have a problem with the cover of the book. Seems it too closely resembles Bill O'Reilly's books. Well, isn't imitation the sincerely form of flattery? Ok, probably not in this case. But, Franken is a satirist and parody and satire laws are well on his side for this one. And he knows it.
Franken on the lawsuit: "I normally prefer not to be out of the country on vacation when I'm sued. However, from everything I know about law regarding satire, I'm not worried."
As far as being called "intoxicated or deranged," Franken laughs it off and says, "I thought for a moment I was a Fox commentator."
He's even making light of the lawsuit. "And by the way, a few months ago, I trademarked the word 'funny.' So when Fox calls me 'unfunny,' they're violating my trademark," says the satirist. "I'm seriously considering a countersuit."
Fox, you'll find that life is much easier when you can laugh at yourself.
Fox News... is worried... that someone will think... wait for it... their reporting is not completely fair and balanced. Ain't that a hoot? Guess what Fox? People already think that. A political satirist's book isn't gonna change that perception.
They go on to call Franken - in the actual court papers mind you - "either intoxicated or deranged" (stemming from an incident where Franken is accused of verball attacking Bill O'Reilly at a press correspondents' dinner) and a "'parasite' who hopes to use Fox' reputation to confuse the public and boost the sales of his book." Can you get more confusing than Bill O'Reilly? I'm not much of a news person but I have trouble believing any of his hype. As far Franken's books sales... Guess what? Sales are rather drastically up since the lawsuit was filed.
The Fox boys also have a problem with the cover of the book. Seems it too closely resembles Bill O'Reilly's books. Well, isn't imitation the sincerely form of flattery? Ok, probably not in this case. But, Franken is a satirist and parody and satire laws are well on his side for this one. And he knows it.
Franken on the lawsuit: "I normally prefer not to be out of the country on vacation when I'm sued. However, from everything I know about law regarding satire, I'm not worried."
As far as being called "intoxicated or deranged," Franken laughs it off and says, "I thought for a moment I was a Fox commentator."
He's even making light of the lawsuit. "And by the way, a few months ago, I trademarked the word 'funny.' So when Fox calls me 'unfunny,' they're violating my trademark," says the satirist. "I'm seriously considering a countersuit."
Fox, you'll find that life is much easier when you can laugh at yourself.
Monday, August 11, 2003
Welcome back
By the time you read this, the wife and kid will be back home after a month of being out of town. And while I can't say I haven't enjoyed my "alone time," it will be nice to have them back home. School starts in a couple of days, so we all need to get used to the school schedule. It shouldn't be that hard for me, at least. My schedule makes me the "to school bringer" meaning I take the kid to school on most days. His mother is home in the afternoons.
I have been keeping busy volunteering with Texas Live. It's feeding my need for a social life, as well as building some local contacts for television and film production. This weekend, we shot an interview with Blue October and stuck around for a few songs. I haven't had chance to listen to their album completely, but I am liking what I hear so far. It's not quite my normal ear candy. Much heavier than I'm used to, but one of the guys in the band plays violin alot, so I guess that tones it down.
Looking forward to lunch with an ex-co-worker. Lots of bitching and gossip to be had.
By the way, if you live in Houston, I would just like to state for the record I am in no way responsible for the "Doggie Rappin'" spot that promotes the SPCA Telethon. Thank you.
I have been keeping busy volunteering with Texas Live. It's feeding my need for a social life, as well as building some local contacts for television and film production. This weekend, we shot an interview with Blue October and stuck around for a few songs. I haven't had chance to listen to their album completely, but I am liking what I hear so far. It's not quite my normal ear candy. Much heavier than I'm used to, but one of the guys in the band plays violin alot, so I guess that tones it down.
Looking forward to lunch with an ex-co-worker. Lots of bitching and gossip to be had.
By the way, if you live in Houston, I would just like to state for the record I am in no way responsible for the "Doggie Rappin'" spot that promotes the SPCA Telethon. Thank you.
Saturday, August 09, 2003
Where-Oh-Where?
I was perusing through some older comments and I suddenly realized that I really miss Tracy and her comments here. I don't know what's happened to her. She was a really fun chick to talk to *gigglesnort*. Where the hell is she? Anyone? I tried emailing her a while back, but I think I have the wrong one.
Friday, August 08, 2003
Flash Mobbing
This is something I'd love to take a part in just for the absurdity of it all. I wonder if anyone in Houston has tried organizing one of these yet?
I saw somewhere that Dallas had its first Flash Mobbing very recently. Something about 200 or so people releasing balloons at the same time. Houston can't be that far behind. I mean, if Dallas has done it, that's like throwing down the gauntlet to Houstonians to rise to the challenge and create a bigger and better flash mob. Hmmm... anyone up for it?
I saw somewhere that Dallas had its first Flash Mobbing very recently. Something about 200 or so people releasing balloons at the same time. Houston can't be that far behind. I mean, if Dallas has done it, that's like throwing down the gauntlet to Houstonians to rise to the challenge and create a bigger and better flash mob. Hmmm... anyone up for it?
Wednesday, August 06, 2003
It's not a theory
Listen to Barrel Of A Gun by Guster, or just read these lyrics, and tell me what you think it's about... My theory is in the comments...
I know a movie star.
I've got her plastered to my wall.
Just like we're dear old friends
Like she already knows me.
She's as perfect as she seems,
Lifts me right out the mezzanine.
I finally fell in love.
I'd been waiting forever.
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
Lie back and fast asleep
If you could she what I could see.
Drip drop a lovely dream.
Goddamn you movie star.
Can't you just stay a minute more.
We'd be the best of friends.
You could stay here forever.
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
She will be sweet on me
Just like a mystery
It's all so hard to see
If I'm not mistaken
She comes from far away
And gets closer everyday
And all that I can say
She's all I want and all I'll ever live for
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
I know a movie star.
I've got her plastered to my wall.
Just like we're dear old friends
Like she already knows me.
She's as perfect as she seems,
Lifts me right out the mezzanine.
I finally fell in love.
I'd been waiting forever.
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
Lie back and fast asleep
If you could she what I could see.
Drip drop a lovely dream.
Goddamn you movie star.
Can't you just stay a minute more.
We'd be the best of friends.
You could stay here forever.
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
She will be sweet on me
Just like a mystery
It's all so hard to see
If I'm not mistaken
She comes from far away
And gets closer everyday
And all that I can say
She's all I want and all I'll ever live for
Four, three, two, one
When at the barrel of a gun
Keep my head way down.
Stay out, I'll stay in.
Half-dead, half numb
She's enough to make me warm.
It's all so safe and sound.
Tuesday, August 05, 2003
Exile in Guyville
It occurred to me today that I'm probably one of a few hardcore male Liz Phair fans. Sure, there were guys at the shows this weekend to see her, but none of them showed the enthusiasm that I did. Then, I started wondering why do her songs effect me so. Why do I identify with the themes in her music? It's not like most of her songs are pro-male. In fact, they border on man-bashing. Songs like Fuck and Run don't exactly put the male species in a good light. Any pschyo-therapists wanna put their finger on my enjoyment and identifying with her music?
It really ticks my gnads off when some neanderthal says something like, "Oh, she's so hot. I'd do her." It's fucking not about that you mouth-breather! It's about the message in her music and that chauvanistic attitude is exactly what she's slapping around. That's some good fucking irony for you, eh? She sings about how fucked up men are and it just takes one stupid moronic statement to prove her right.
Her latest album really speaks to me. Maybe it's that deep down I wish someone would say some of those things to me. I wouldn't mind being told that a relationship compared to comfortable pair of underwear, as Liz speaks in Favorite. There's a lot of themes on this album that I am really identifying with at this point in my life. For the life of me, I don't understand why the critics don't like this album.
Ok, I will stop talking about Liz Phair now... I'm sure you're sick of it...
It really ticks my gnads off when some neanderthal says something like, "Oh, she's so hot. I'd do her." It's fucking not about that you mouth-breather! It's about the message in her music and that chauvanistic attitude is exactly what she's slapping around. That's some good fucking irony for you, eh? She sings about how fucked up men are and it just takes one stupid moronic statement to prove her right.
Her latest album really speaks to me. Maybe it's that deep down I wish someone would say some of those things to me. I wouldn't mind being told that a relationship compared to comfortable pair of underwear, as Liz speaks in Favorite. There's a lot of themes on this album that I am really identifying with at this point in my life. For the life of me, I don't understand why the critics don't like this album.
Ok, I will stop talking about Liz Phair now... I'm sure you're sick of it...
Monday, August 04, 2003
Rocked Me All Weekend
Lord, I'm exhausted, but that pic was worth the trip. 3 shows. 3 cities. 3 nights. I love following a tour and I love Liz Phair. So, you can imagine how much I enjoyed this weekend.
Liz Phair was the opener for Jason Mraz. Who the fuck is Jason Mraz? I still don't know really because I left after Liz's set. Some song... The Remedy... I don't know. I wasn't there for him. In fact, it really seemed like I was one of the only people at any of the shows there for Liz Phair. The audiences were filled will teenaged and colleged aged children. I say children because they made me feel old at 28. Half of the audience was just starting kindergarten when Exile in Guyville was released. It was hard to rock out to Hot White Come with 11 year olds (yes, friggin' 11) right next to me.
I'm sure I got plenty of stares from the crowd though. Mostly, they were stood still during Ms. Phair's sets. I'd look around while she played and see one or two people on the other side of the crowd rocking out like me. You could tell who was at the show to see Liz by looking at their wrist. If they had a 21-and-up-I-can-drink wristband, chances were good they were there for Liz. Though now that I think about it, some of those people were parents of kids their for Jason Mraz. The Liz fans I talked to all were "Who the fuck is Jason Mraz and why is she opening for this fucker?" I don't get the booking there. Perhaps, I should complain to her management or record company. Maybe then, she'd play at more appropriate venues.
Despite all the kiddies, all three shows were wonderful. I was about 5 people back from the stage. I think she might have seen that I was the only one in my area grooving to her songs. It looked like she got a kick out of my rocking - she'd crack a smile when she looked at me. I guess I wasn't too hard to spot in the crowd. After tonight's (Houston) set, some people my age came up to me and expressed how they enjoyed watching me enjoy the show. I'm a freak that way.
I was slightly disappointed that the setlists were virtually the same. But, when it was varied up, she play my favorites. Oh hell, who am I kidding? They're all my fucking favorites. I didn't hear Chopsticks, but she played that the first time I saw her, so that's ok.
She'll playing the Austin City Limits Music Festival in September. Yep, I'll be there.
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