We'll I got lucky in the Christmas presents department this year! I actually some nice gifts, but the shining gem was a Nintendo Wii.
Man, is this thing addicting! Came with Nintendo Sports, and I also got Legend of Zelda too. Both really fun! Then I went out and purchased a couple of other games as well (Super Mario Galaxy, Rayman 2) along with a few other controllers (which were practically sold out everywhere too).
All I can say is if you can track one of these Wiis down; I highly recommend you pick one up.
Thanks for the Wii, family!!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Vacation
I'm officially free for over a week from the confines of work. Over a week off of work!?!?! What will I do with myself? I'm sure I'll find something.
Until Jan. 2nd, it's party time!
Until Jan. 2nd, it's party time!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Year in Review
The Good
• Found love, my girlfriend (Mary). :) Hard to believe it’s been 6 months already that we’ve been together. Time flies!
• Having good friends and family close by.
• Got to travel to Santa Monica (LA), CA on a TV shoot for work and hang out, see stars, shoot commercials. Good times were had! (Best moment was going for 3-mile run along the beach as the sun was setting against the ocean.)
• Took a most enjoyable camping trip to Bemidji State Park with some good friends in July.
• Enjoyed being out on my friend’s boat on Prior Lake, as I always do, in the summer! (Side note: Summer never officially starts for me until I get to go out in my friend Cory’s boat.)
• Finally bought a bike (however, only used it a couple times. Needs a tune-up.)
• Went to my 10-year High School Reunion, and it didn’t suck. (Except for Jake Schmidt, read a few entries down.)
• Saw Andrew Bird in concert, and it was FANTASTICAL!
• Saw a billion and two movies, as I normally do.
The Bad
• Got sick … A LOT!
• Got put on “the hell” account at work.
• Been working too much!
• Never took any real vacations. A goal for 2008!
• Didn’t buy a new car, HDTV, or Digital SLR camera as I’d been planning, perhaps sometime in 2050.
• Got another year older. Poop.
I’m sure there are quite a few things I’m forgetting to add to the list above, but that’s what comes to mind. 2007 had it’s share of ups and downs. However, the positive thing is that my list for good things is more than bad. Hopefully I can make the good list twice as long for 2008!
Merry Chrismahanukwazaka, everyone, and a Happy New Year!
• Found love, my girlfriend (Mary). :) Hard to believe it’s been 6 months already that we’ve been together. Time flies!
• Having good friends and family close by.
• Got to travel to Santa Monica (LA), CA on a TV shoot for work and hang out, see stars, shoot commercials. Good times were had! (Best moment was going for 3-mile run along the beach as the sun was setting against the ocean.)
• Took a most enjoyable camping trip to Bemidji State Park with some good friends in July.
• Enjoyed being out on my friend’s boat on Prior Lake, as I always do, in the summer! (Side note: Summer never officially starts for me until I get to go out in my friend Cory’s boat.)
• Finally bought a bike (however, only used it a couple times. Needs a tune-up.)
• Went to my 10-year High School Reunion, and it didn’t suck. (Except for Jake Schmidt, read a few entries down.)
• Saw Andrew Bird in concert, and it was FANTASTICAL!
• Saw a billion and two movies, as I normally do.
The Bad
• Got sick … A LOT!
• Got put on “the hell” account at work.
• Been working too much!
• Never took any real vacations. A goal for 2008!
• Didn’t buy a new car, HDTV, or Digital SLR camera as I’d been planning, perhaps sometime in 2050.
• Got another year older. Poop.
I’m sure there are quite a few things I’m forgetting to add to the list above, but that’s what comes to mind. 2007 had it’s share of ups and downs. However, the positive thing is that my list for good things is more than bad. Hopefully I can make the good list twice as long for 2008!
Merry Chrismahanukwazaka, everyone, and a Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Andrew Bird
I took in the Andrew Bird concert last night at The Guthrie downtown Minneapolis and what a great show! The girlfriend got us tickets for my B-day last week (thanks baby!) and I’d been looking forward to the concert all week.
I really enjoy Andrew Bird’s music and listen to him a lot. I've even made a couple attempts to go and see him but every time I do so far plans either fell through or tickets were sold out (which is usually the case).
Well the concert last night was truly worth the wait! The best way I can describe an Andrew Bird performance is best summed up as a musical ADHD performance ... that entertains wonderfully. I’ll elaborate ...
As he is playing his songs (he uses multiple instruments so ...) he uses a “looping machine” with controls down at his feet. And before the performance he took his shoes off to be more comfortable, so he controls everything in his stocking feet to play sections of his performance over and over. Then he keeps switching between multiple instruments throughout a song A LOT. Between his many violin, multiple guitars, whistling, electronics, farm animal kids toy and clapping sessions all switching back and forth, Andrew Bird manages to get so into his music that he dances with what I can only describe as "crazy legs" taking him dancing all over the stage, while he sways his head all over the place. The fact that he doesn't fall over it a feat in itself!
It may sound like a crazy messed-up performance, but what's funny is it all works harmoniously together and makes for one heck of a show. I was left stunned at this musical screaming genius. This guy is so freaking talented that I’m sure he’s has to have next to no social skills. (That’s usually how it seems to work, right? Gifted in one department or one side of the brain and not in the other. Maybe not, every time he spoke he didn't say much, but he did seem like an exceedingly nice guy dressed in his 3-piece suit.)
Well, the concert lasted for 3 hours; once Andrew Bird got into his performance he couldn’t stop! The songs went on forever it seemed, but still managed to entertain so you didn’t get bored.
Overall, just a wonderful concert and evening and I got to hear the two songs I came for so all is right with the world. Thank you Andrew Bird, you put on a most entertaining show. Don't be a stranger to Minneapolis, please come back to visit often!
I really enjoy Andrew Bird’s music and listen to him a lot. I've even made a couple attempts to go and see him but every time I do so far plans either fell through or tickets were sold out (which is usually the case).
Well the concert last night was truly worth the wait! The best way I can describe an Andrew Bird performance is best summed up as a musical ADHD performance ... that entertains wonderfully. I’ll elaborate ...
As he is playing his songs (he uses multiple instruments so ...) he uses a “looping machine” with controls down at his feet. And before the performance he took his shoes off to be more comfortable, so he controls everything in his stocking feet to play sections of his performance over and over. Then he keeps switching between multiple instruments throughout a song A LOT. Between his many violin, multiple guitars, whistling, electronics, farm animal kids toy and clapping sessions all switching back and forth, Andrew Bird manages to get so into his music that he dances with what I can only describe as "crazy legs" taking him dancing all over the stage, while he sways his head all over the place. The fact that he doesn't fall over it a feat in itself!
It may sound like a crazy messed-up performance, but what's funny is it all works harmoniously together and makes for one heck of a show. I was left stunned at this musical screaming genius. This guy is so freaking talented that I’m sure he’s has to have next to no social skills. (That’s usually how it seems to work, right? Gifted in one department or one side of the brain and not in the other. Maybe not, every time he spoke he didn't say much, but he did seem like an exceedingly nice guy dressed in his 3-piece suit.)
Well, the concert lasted for 3 hours; once Andrew Bird got into his performance he couldn’t stop! The songs went on forever it seemed, but still managed to entertain so you didn’t get bored.
Overall, just a wonderful concert and evening and I got to hear the two songs I came for so all is right with the world. Thank you Andrew Bird, you put on a most entertaining show. Don't be a stranger to Minneapolis, please come back to visit often!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Weekend Round-up
Friday, Dec. 7th
• Work wouldn’t end fast enough. I think the clock ticked backwards a couple of times.
• Picked up my 2 new pairs of glasses. One I liked. The other I probably won’t wear for a while. They look pretty fancy!
• Took a trip down to PL to see my friend Cory’s play on opening night called, “Noises Off.” It’s pretty funny, you should go see it! Only one weekend left! Put on by the Prior Lake Players at the old PL High School ... aww memories.
• Hanging out after the show with a bunch of friends at a local bar and ran into someone that I haven’t seen in 5-6 years. Well, I quickly remembered why I hadn’t seen that person in 5 years (very annoying). Umm … yeah.
• Overall an enjoyable evening. Took in a show, hung out with good friends, and enjoyed some good food and adult beverages.
Saturday, Dec. 8th
• Christmas shopping. Too many people, lots of annoying kids, and really frickin’ cold outside from the car to the stores. Winter sucks.
• Laundry ... accomplished. Sweet!
• Corey and Mel’s Holiday Party. Once again a success! Great food, great friends and overall a really fun evening. Thanks Corey and Mel!
• Lots of good food at the party, however Jamie’s chocolate chip cookies were once again simply amazing! The secret ingredient … vanilla pudding. Keeps the cookies soft and again … amazing.
• Later on that evening I had a conversation with Mel about our 10-yr high school reunion and ‘Jake Schmidt’ came up again and I went into orbit. I don’t know what it is, but every time that kid’s name is mentioned the rage comes out. What a jerk! (See entry below).
Sunday, Dec. 9th
• Happy B-Day to me! I’m now 29 and so I guess I’m officially willing to admit I’m in my late 20’s now. Kinda sad, but since I can’t get any younger may as well celebrate.
• Girlfriend came over and we celebrated.
• Saw the movie Golden Compass. Pretty good. My only regret, I don't have an armored Polar Bear warrior at my side. :(
• More Christmas shopping.
• Had dinner with the folks and they officially met Mary. It went well!
• Got presents: Tickets to Andrew Bird concert (Dec. 15th), money and BBY gift cards, Twins caps (always can use a few more), and a few other random things.
• Overall a good B-Day.
Monday, Dec. 10th
• Back to work … poop.
• Work wouldn’t end fast enough. I think the clock ticked backwards a couple of times.
• Picked up my 2 new pairs of glasses. One I liked. The other I probably won’t wear for a while. They look pretty fancy!
• Took a trip down to PL to see my friend Cory’s play on opening night called, “Noises Off.” It’s pretty funny, you should go see it! Only one weekend left! Put on by the Prior Lake Players at the old PL High School ... aww memories.
• Hanging out after the show with a bunch of friends at a local bar and ran into someone that I haven’t seen in 5-6 years. Well, I quickly remembered why I hadn’t seen that person in 5 years (very annoying). Umm … yeah.
• Overall an enjoyable evening. Took in a show, hung out with good friends, and enjoyed some good food and adult beverages.
Saturday, Dec. 8th
• Christmas shopping. Too many people, lots of annoying kids, and really frickin’ cold outside from the car to the stores. Winter sucks.
• Laundry ... accomplished. Sweet!
• Corey and Mel’s Holiday Party. Once again a success! Great food, great friends and overall a really fun evening. Thanks Corey and Mel!
• Lots of good food at the party, however Jamie’s chocolate chip cookies were once again simply amazing! The secret ingredient … vanilla pudding. Keeps the cookies soft and again … amazing.
• Later on that evening I had a conversation with Mel about our 10-yr high school reunion and ‘Jake Schmidt’ came up again and I went into orbit. I don’t know what it is, but every time that kid’s name is mentioned the rage comes out. What a jerk! (See entry below).
Sunday, Dec. 9th
• Happy B-Day to me! I’m now 29 and so I guess I’m officially willing to admit I’m in my late 20’s now. Kinda sad, but since I can’t get any younger may as well celebrate.
• Girlfriend came over and we celebrated.
• Saw the movie Golden Compass. Pretty good. My only regret, I don't have an armored Polar Bear warrior at my side. :(
• More Christmas shopping.
• Had dinner with the folks and they officially met Mary. It went well!
• Got presents: Tickets to Andrew Bird concert (Dec. 15th), money and BBY gift cards, Twins caps (always can use a few more), and a few other random things.
• Overall a good B-Day.
Monday, Dec. 10th
• Back to work … poop.
Monday, November 26, 2007
10 years later...
This past weekend I attended my 10-year High School Reunion. Quite the surreal adventure! It was hard for me to believe it had been 10 years already, but time really does fly. Truth be told I had a good time and I'm glad I went.
It was held in the ever classy VFW in Prior Lake, MN last Saturday. I decided I didn't want to fly solo, and I wasn't going to subject the girlfriend to a bunch of total strangers, so I called up a buddy of mine from high school. Strength In Numbers, my friends, Strength In Numbers!! My friend Ben was up for the challenge, so off we went to the PL VFW to re-live some Class of 1997 high school adventures!
Upon entering the VFW my ears were immediately hit with a deafening blow from a crappy band playing country music. I walk into the VFW to see a dance floor filled with couples in their 60s-70s dancing up a storm like it was 1920. What the heck? Did I go forward in time and not realize it? Did everyone get really old? Where's Marty McFly? Doc Brown? Delorian? Just then, I spot some friends and familiar faces on the other side of the room and realize the reunion was being held on the "other" side of the VFW.
Well to sum up, like I said, quite the adventure! All in all a good time, and more people than I expected showed up. I found enough time had passed where people had matured and had enough time to actually do something with their lives. Not everyone took that opportunity, mind you, but most did. Some people changed, some didn't, and about 60%-70% of the guys lost their hair. Those were the main take-aways. Also, some hot girls stayed hot, and most did NOT!
The one point to note from the evening is as follows. First off, there was this kid in high school that was constantly picked on. His name was Brian. In high school he was awkward, shy, had no friends, and constantly ridiculed and beat up. (Not by me for the record). Heck, I voted him most likely to show up at our 10-year reunion with an AK-47 and exact his glorious revenge! However, he did not. Instead he took the high road and showed up, mingled and enjoyed the evening. I talked to Brian for a bit. He was still awkward, but after college joined the Navy and defended our country, which entailed a 3-year tour in Japan, and another 2-years at Virginia Beach. I salute those in our armed forces. It is something I don't think I could do and I truly look up to those who defend us, our country and our freedom.
Which brings me to the other point of my story. Well with the underdog there inevitably has to then be a bully. Enter Jake the Snake. Jake was the kid throughout his school career (K-12) that was the class bully. Always a total asshole, and thought he was really cool. (I'm sure you know the type.) Truly the guy you (and everyone else) loved to hate! Well Jake showed up at the reunion (10 years later) and NOTHING had changed. Still the same asshole as ever!
Throughout the course of the evening Jake managed to pick about 5 fights, punch 2 people, knock over a lady spilling her drink, and get into a fight with his old girlfriend. All while being drunk and spitting chewing-tobacco everywhere. He even decided to make a classy wardrobe choice and show up in a well-chosen Mossy Oak camo hunting hat and baggy clothes. Way to go, Jake! Truly a modern-day Seabass (for all your Dumb & Dumber fans), if there ever was one. Just a TOTAL LOSER!
The part that really pissed me off in the night, however was this. I'm talking with Brian (the kid that was picked on in high school) and impressed that he made something of his life and more then that defended our country and our freedom. The freedom we take for granted on a daily basis. Then out of nowhere, Jake shows up (as we are talking) and punches Brian in the stomach and walks back to the bar. NO WARNING, NO REASON ... just a TOTAL ASSHOLE!! I was stunned, speechless. (I still am thinking about it.) I couldn't comprehend what just happened. All I could yell out was, "What the FUCK was that for you ASSHOLE?!?" But it was too late, Jake had left and didn't hear me and everyone was engaged in their conversations and drinking their beer. It was if no one had noticed the travesty that just happened. Brian shrugged it off like the gentleman he was, and made the best of the evening.
I still can't believe it. Here is a total loser (Jake) that has done nothing with his life except inflict pain and torment on others. And what does he do 10 years later showing the mentality of a 14-year old? Punches a veteran at the VFW. Someone who has provided him the daily freedoms he takes for granted. Someone that allows him the right to be an asshole and a drain on our society on a daily basis. I'm stunned!!
Well this post is turning into a novel and a rant, but that last particular incident was really bothering me and I had to get it out in the hopes it will quit angering me. Overall, believe it or not, it was an enjoyable evening and good to see old classmates. The only advice I can give is if you get the chance please DO go to your 10-year reunion, you will have a good time. And if you do see Jake stranded on the side of the road, please make an extra effort to swerve and HIT the bastard!
Class of '97 kixx ass!!!
It was held in the ever classy VFW in Prior Lake, MN last Saturday. I decided I didn't want to fly solo, and I wasn't going to subject the girlfriend to a bunch of total strangers, so I called up a buddy of mine from high school. Strength In Numbers, my friends, Strength In Numbers!! My friend Ben was up for the challenge, so off we went to the PL VFW to re-live some Class of 1997 high school adventures!
Upon entering the VFW my ears were immediately hit with a deafening blow from a crappy band playing country music. I walk into the VFW to see a dance floor filled with couples in their 60s-70s dancing up a storm like it was 1920. What the heck? Did I go forward in time and not realize it? Did everyone get really old? Where's Marty McFly? Doc Brown? Delorian? Just then, I spot some friends and familiar faces on the other side of the room and realize the reunion was being held on the "other" side of the VFW.
Well to sum up, like I said, quite the adventure! All in all a good time, and more people than I expected showed up. I found enough time had passed where people had matured and had enough time to actually do something with their lives. Not everyone took that opportunity, mind you, but most did. Some people changed, some didn't, and about 60%-70% of the guys lost their hair. Those were the main take-aways. Also, some hot girls stayed hot, and most did NOT!
The one point to note from the evening is as follows. First off, there was this kid in high school that was constantly picked on. His name was Brian. In high school he was awkward, shy, had no friends, and constantly ridiculed and beat up. (Not by me for the record). Heck, I voted him most likely to show up at our 10-year reunion with an AK-47 and exact his glorious revenge! However, he did not. Instead he took the high road and showed up, mingled and enjoyed the evening. I talked to Brian for a bit. He was still awkward, but after college joined the Navy and defended our country, which entailed a 3-year tour in Japan, and another 2-years at Virginia Beach. I salute those in our armed forces. It is something I don't think I could do and I truly look up to those who defend us, our country and our freedom.
Which brings me to the other point of my story. Well with the underdog there inevitably has to then be a bully. Enter Jake the Snake. Jake was the kid throughout his school career (K-12) that was the class bully. Always a total asshole, and thought he was really cool. (I'm sure you know the type.) Truly the guy you (and everyone else) loved to hate! Well Jake showed up at the reunion (10 years later) and NOTHING had changed. Still the same asshole as ever!
Throughout the course of the evening Jake managed to pick about 5 fights, punch 2 people, knock over a lady spilling her drink, and get into a fight with his old girlfriend. All while being drunk and spitting chewing-tobacco everywhere. He even decided to make a classy wardrobe choice and show up in a well-chosen Mossy Oak camo hunting hat and baggy clothes. Way to go, Jake! Truly a modern-day Seabass (for all your Dumb & Dumber fans), if there ever was one. Just a TOTAL LOSER!
The part that really pissed me off in the night, however was this. I'm talking with Brian (the kid that was picked on in high school) and impressed that he made something of his life and more then that defended our country and our freedom. The freedom we take for granted on a daily basis. Then out of nowhere, Jake shows up (as we are talking) and punches Brian in the stomach and walks back to the bar. NO WARNING, NO REASON ... just a TOTAL ASSHOLE!! I was stunned, speechless. (I still am thinking about it.) I couldn't comprehend what just happened. All I could yell out was, "What the FUCK was that for you ASSHOLE?!?" But it was too late, Jake had left and didn't hear me and everyone was engaged in their conversations and drinking their beer. It was if no one had noticed the travesty that just happened. Brian shrugged it off like the gentleman he was, and made the best of the evening.
I still can't believe it. Here is a total loser (Jake) that has done nothing with his life except inflict pain and torment on others. And what does he do 10 years later showing the mentality of a 14-year old? Punches a veteran at the VFW. Someone who has provided him the daily freedoms he takes for granted. Someone that allows him the right to be an asshole and a drain on our society on a daily basis. I'm stunned!!
Well this post is turning into a novel and a rant, but that last particular incident was really bothering me and I had to get it out in the hopes it will quit angering me. Overall, believe it or not, it was an enjoyable evening and good to see old classmates. The only advice I can give is if you get the chance please DO go to your 10-year reunion, you will have a good time. And if you do see Jake stranded on the side of the road, please make an extra effort to swerve and HIT the bastard!
Class of '97 kixx ass!!!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Walker Art Center
I'm a lover of art. I truly enjoy going to art museums and looking at paintings, sculptures, and photography. I even enjoy attempting to create some myself. However, I'm not sure I really 'get' Modern Art, as most of it seems to me somewhere between the artist wasn't even trying and/or the playful attempts of a misguided kindergartner.
On Saturday, the girlfriend and I, headed out to the Walker Art Center to check out some Modern Art, and more importantly the Frida Kahlo (paintings) exhibit that's being advertised all over the place.
Well the modern art exhibits I have seen before at the Walker. There are a few particular pieces that I really enjoy and remember seeing from when I was a kid, but for the most part most of the exhibits went over my head and had my girlfriend saying, "That crap is art? I could do that!"
However, the Frida Kahlo paintings were worth the trip! Frida Kahlo the Mexican (unibrow lady) artist had a troubled life that inspired some really creepy paintings. Typically, the paintings that you see advertised or that she is most famous for are her self portraits (again the unibrow). What would seem like pretty "safe" and "acceptable" paintings. However, this was a woman that was constantly sick, had a number of miscarriages and marital problems, quite the difficult life and as thus inspired her very morbid and strange painting style.
The majority of Frida Kahlo's paintings involved ghastly and morbid images of sickness and death. The paintings were a bit creepy, but I REALLY enjoyed them. What I didn't enjoy however was the billion and two people trying to get into the exhibt along with Bob the misunderstood artist who was so misunderstood he hadn't taken a shower in a century. (Oh Bob, you don't need to reek to get attention. You are supposed to do that with your art!) Oh well, I'd say the exhibit was still worth the trip, and dealing with a few stinky artists. Check it out!
As I was prohibited from taking pictures at most of the exhibits I don't have any pics to share there, but below are a few pics of areas I could take pics of at the Walker. Enjoy the adventure!
Modern Art!
On Saturday, the girlfriend and I, headed out to the Walker Art Center to check out some Modern Art, and more importantly the Frida Kahlo (paintings) exhibit that's being advertised all over the place.
Well the modern art exhibits I have seen before at the Walker. There are a few particular pieces that I really enjoy and remember seeing from when I was a kid, but for the most part most of the exhibits went over my head and had my girlfriend saying, "That crap is art? I could do that!"
However, the Frida Kahlo paintings were worth the trip! Frida Kahlo the Mexican (unibrow lady) artist had a troubled life that inspired some really creepy paintings. Typically, the paintings that you see advertised or that she is most famous for are her self portraits (again the unibrow). What would seem like pretty "safe" and "acceptable" paintings. However, this was a woman that was constantly sick, had a number of miscarriages and marital problems, quite the difficult life and as thus inspired her very morbid and strange painting style.
The majority of Frida Kahlo's paintings involved ghastly and morbid images of sickness and death. The paintings were a bit creepy, but I REALLY enjoyed them. What I didn't enjoy however was the billion and two people trying to get into the exhibt along with Bob the misunderstood artist who was so misunderstood he hadn't taken a shower in a century. (Oh Bob, you don't need to reek to get attention. You are supposed to do that with your art!) Oh well, I'd say the exhibit was still worth the trip, and dealing with a few stinky artists. Check it out!
As I was prohibited from taking pictures at most of the exhibits I don't have any pics to share there, but below are a few pics of areas I could take pics of at the Walker. Enjoy the adventure!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Como Zoo ... a depressing adventure!
Took a trip to the Como Zoo last weekend, and I had a good time however it was quite a sad experience. No I’m not schizophrenic, I’ll explain. I hadn’t been to the Como “free” Zoo since I was a kid. Probably about 13 or 14. Back then all the animals, and especially their cages and exhibits looked BIG.
Well fast forward 14 years to today and I’m all grown up. The girlfriend and I, being the animal lovers that we are, decided to go to the Como Zoo since we’d been to the Minnesota Zoo about a month ago.
Well, we had a good time at the zoo, but the sad thing is now that I’m grown up I’m able to properly evaluate ‘spatial relationships’ … meaning … the animals cages are WAY TOO SMALL!!
As we walked around I quickly noticed that most of the animals cages were way too small, which lead the animals to succumb to boredom, malnutrition and more commonly … insanity. It was quite sad!
One exhibit in particular made me just about want to cry. It was the Silverback Gorillas. Contained in the indoor exhibit was one male and two females. All just sitting and laying down in an exhibit barely big enough for one gorilla. Bored and confined I watched as one of the females lay against the floor next to the glass and watched me with bored sad eyes. Meanwhile, families of annoying kids tapping the glass and amateur photographers flashing blinding pictures of the caged animal passed by. All I could do was stand there and imagine this animal’s sad pathetic existence. It made me so sad.
I’d go on but the stories were much of the same and well I’m bumming myself out. If you ever get a chance to make a difference tell your friends and family that the animals at the Como Zoo need help and more space!
On a lighter note, since the animals were closer it made for some good pictures. Check ‘em out.
Well fast forward 14 years to today and I’m all grown up. The girlfriend and I, being the animal lovers that we are, decided to go to the Como Zoo since we’d been to the Minnesota Zoo about a month ago.
Well, we had a good time at the zoo, but the sad thing is now that I’m grown up I’m able to properly evaluate ‘spatial relationships’ … meaning … the animals cages are WAY TOO SMALL!!
As we walked around I quickly noticed that most of the animals cages were way too small, which lead the animals to succumb to boredom, malnutrition and more commonly … insanity. It was quite sad!
One exhibit in particular made me just about want to cry. It was the Silverback Gorillas. Contained in the indoor exhibit was one male and two females. All just sitting and laying down in an exhibit barely big enough for one gorilla. Bored and confined I watched as one of the females lay against the floor next to the glass and watched me with bored sad eyes. Meanwhile, families of annoying kids tapping the glass and amateur photographers flashing blinding pictures of the caged animal passed by. All I could do was stand there and imagine this animal’s sad pathetic existence. It made me so sad.
I’d go on but the stories were much of the same and well I’m bumming myself out. If you ever get a chance to make a difference tell your friends and family that the animals at the Como Zoo need help and more space!
On a lighter note, since the animals were closer it made for some good pictures. Check ‘em out.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Random Pixs
Random picture day. Here's a few pics I took on a walk around Lake of the Isles on a nice fall day last weekend.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
A Devil and his Angel
Halloween is probably my favorite holiday. As a kid, it's simply amazing! You get to dress up like your favorite scary monster or superhero and go from door to door and get showered with free candy. How is that not the coolest thing ever?!? Well I still can't get enough of Halloween and love to get dressed up and party...and this year was no exception.
This year however, I actually did a 'couples' costume idea with the girlfriend. I was the 'classy' devil and she was my angel. And they turned out to be pretty good costumes if you ask me. My costume was complete with classy dress-up outfit, horns, skull cane, and 'red' eye contacts to freak everyone out...and they did! I even had a couple of girls who refused to look me in the eyes cause they'd get creeped out.
Well we partied it up at a friend's place ... kudos Cory!! And got our Halloween party on! Below are a couple pics of Mary and my costume and some others from the night. Look below or if you want to see more pics click here.
Can't wait for next year!! (My only regret is I missed the James Annual Halloween party. :( Next year, I'll be there!!)
The Devil
A Devil and his Angel
Clark (Superman) & Lex Luthor - Smallville
Evil Incorporated
Happy Halloween!!!
This year however, I actually did a 'couples' costume idea with the girlfriend. I was the 'classy' devil and she was my angel. And they turned out to be pretty good costumes if you ask me. My costume was complete with classy dress-up outfit, horns, skull cane, and 'red' eye contacts to freak everyone out...and they did! I even had a couple of girls who refused to look me in the eyes cause they'd get creeped out.
Well we partied it up at a friend's place ... kudos Cory!! And got our Halloween party on! Below are a couple pics of Mary and my costume and some others from the night. Look below or if you want to see more pics click here.
Can't wait for next year!! (My only regret is I missed the James Annual Halloween party. :( Next year, I'll be there!!)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Finally
This past Saturday I FINALLY got out on the bike I bought from Mikey B. It had been a loooong time coming, as the bike had been just sitting in my apartment screaming at me for some attention.
Well, the girlfriend and I rode around the three lakes (Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet) in Uptown. The weather was perfect out and it was a really fun bike ride; about 10.5 miles. Even got a few nice pics out of the deal (see below).
The only things that weren't too nice were a couple of minor problems I discovered with the bike (I think the chain needs to have a couple links taken out of it, due to some shifting problems, and the chain kept slipping when I was standing up trying to pedal fast.) Along with some "after biking" pain that resulted from the seat since I haven't been biking since hmmm ... let's see ... I was 10?!? Other then that a really enjoyable ride.
Below are a few pics from the ride to prove I actually did make it out. (Since Pete and Mike won't believe it.) Enjoy! :)
Well, the girlfriend and I rode around the three lakes (Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet) in Uptown. The weather was perfect out and it was a really fun bike ride; about 10.5 miles. Even got a few nice pics out of the deal (see below).
The only things that weren't too nice were a couple of minor problems I discovered with the bike (I think the chain needs to have a couple links taken out of it, due to some shifting problems, and the chain kept slipping when I was standing up trying to pedal fast.) Along with some "after biking" pain that resulted from the seat since I haven't been biking since hmmm ... let's see ... I was 10?!? Other then that a really enjoyable ride.
Below are a few pics from the ride to prove I actually did make it out. (Since Pete and Mike won't believe it.) Enjoy! :)
Monday, October 15, 2007
Best Holiday Ever
Halloween is easily my favorite holiday and I'm really excited about my costume this year and the party I'm going to. (However I am really sad that I'm going to miss my friend James' Halloween party. Bummer! He always throws a great party and it's a good time to see friends.)
However, for the first time in my life I'm actually doing a "couple" costume idea with my girlfriend. Should be pretty cool. I just got the last piece of the costume in the mail today too and it looks great. Can't wait!!
I'm not going to unveil what it is until after the party, but I should be able to post photos after Oct. 27th. Until then I'm just building up the hype I guess.
In reliving past Halloween memories, here is a picture of my Halloween costume from last year when Mikey B, Corey, Aimee and I went as the Ch. 4 News team from Anchorman. NEWS TEAM ASSEMBLE!!!
Happy (early) Halloween everyone!
However, for the first time in my life I'm actually doing a "couple" costume idea with my girlfriend. Should be pretty cool. I just got the last piece of the costume in the mail today too and it looks great. Can't wait!!
I'm not going to unveil what it is until after the party, but I should be able to post photos after Oct. 27th. Until then I'm just building up the hype I guess.
In reliving past Halloween memories, here is a picture of my Halloween costume from last year when Mikey B, Corey, Aimee and I went as the Ch. 4 News team from Anchorman. NEWS TEAM ASSEMBLE!!!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
New Work Computer
Well I have to say that new computers make me happy. Especially when it’s a brand new BIG Mac. Get it ... bigmac? Nevermind.
It’s computer change-up time at work and today I got my brand new 24-inch iMac. Holy Frig-A-Crap!! The display on this thing is HUGE and so crisp and clear. It’s like I’m watching HDTV at my desk. I love it! And also love the new style mouse and thin keyboard too.
If you want to get one for yourself (I highly recommend it) or check out what I’m talking about here is the link: http://www.apple.com/imac/ Go with the 24-inch display model, you won't be disappointed!
God save the Mac!
It’s computer change-up time at work and today I got my brand new 24-inch iMac. Holy Frig-A-Crap!! The display on this thing is HUGE and so crisp and clear. It’s like I’m watching HDTV at my desk. I love it! And also love the new style mouse and thin keyboard too.
If you want to get one for yourself (I highly recommend it) or check out what I’m talking about here is the link: http://www.apple.com/imac/ Go with the 24-inch display model, you won't be disappointed!
God save the Mac!
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Science Museum of Minnesota
This past weekend I went to the Science Museum of MN. I used to go to there all the time when I was a kid as my parents had a membership. My favorite exhibit was always the dinosaur bones. I was fascinated with dinosaurs! (still am) And all of the exhibits, as a kid, seemed to go on forever and ever. And no trip to the Science Museum was complete without getting grossed out by the mummy.
Well I hadn’t been to the Science Museum since it moved in 2000 to its new location downtown St. Paul. I was really excited to see it as I had fond childhood memories. However, as I’ve learned time and time again, once you revisit a place from your childhood one always feels a bit under whelmed. As a kid a place that seemed vast and wondrous to a grown up can seem small and uninteresting. So I went in with hopeful, but low expectations.
I have to say that while the museum was certainly not as big as I remembered as a kid it was still fun. And the dinosaur bones exhibit, hands down was still the best. Oh and I got grossed out by the mummy again. Ewww…. If your looking for something to do on a Saturday and you’re in the St. Paul area you should check it out!
Here’s a few pics.
Well I hadn’t been to the Science Museum since it moved in 2000 to its new location downtown St. Paul. I was really excited to see it as I had fond childhood memories. However, as I’ve learned time and time again, once you revisit a place from your childhood one always feels a bit under whelmed. As a kid a place that seemed vast and wondrous to a grown up can seem small and uninteresting. So I went in with hopeful, but low expectations.
I have to say that while the museum was certainly not as big as I remembered as a kid it was still fun. And the dinosaur bones exhibit, hands down was still the best. Oh and I got grossed out by the mummy again. Ewww…. If your looking for something to do on a Saturday and you’re in the St. Paul area you should check it out!
Here’s a few pics.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Therapeutic
Since August I’ve switched accounts at work, much to my dismay. I left the most enjoyable and rewarding account I’ve worked on in my advertising career for easily the worst and most frustrating by far. Not a fair trade you say? I’d more than agree with you, but I didn’t have a choice. The only upside is the account shift carried with it a big promotion and a raise. However, I’m finding out that money isn’t everything. But that’s not the purpose of this entry, I’m getting side-tracked…
I finally got around this afternoon to cleaning out my office at work. I had a file cabinet and bookcase packed full of 2 years worth of old files for accounts I used to work on, and today I cleaned house. I tell you it was like my own therapy session. 'What’s this? Who knows … throw it!' I cleaned house (or the office, I guess) ... in essence for a brief moment it was like throwing away responsibility. Who knew cleaning could be this cathartic?
Well for the moment I now have a clean office. I bet by tomorrow it will be all junked up again.
I finally got around this afternoon to cleaning out my office at work. I had a file cabinet and bookcase packed full of 2 years worth of old files for accounts I used to work on, and today I cleaned house. I tell you it was like my own therapy session. 'What’s this? Who knows … throw it!' I cleaned house (or the office, I guess) ... in essence for a brief moment it was like throwing away responsibility. Who knew cleaning could be this cathartic?
Well for the moment I now have a clean office. I bet by tomorrow it will be all junked up again.
Friday, September 28, 2007
El Pistolero
I have a problem that I’m willing to admit. Those close to me (friends and family) have known about the problem for many years. Only the last year or so have I really come to grips with the problem and learned to control it. The source of my problem … the camera.
It’s not something I normally do in daily life, only when someone is snapping pictures of me. I thought I had it under control however just last week I was reminded once again that this is a problem I need to keep constant watch over and be mindful of.
Last week, Juan (a Spanish friend of mine) started calling me by a nickname, which I was honestly honored by and made me laugh … a lot. The name, El Pistolero. It means … The Gunman. Yes, I’m that guy.
I’m the guy that in just about every picture you see me in I end up making “the guns” motion with my hands. I’m not sure how I started down this path of photo-posing destruction, but here I am and admitting the problem is the first step. Right?
Honestly, with the new nickname (el pistolero … the gunman) I’ve come to embrace my problem, identify it and take the appropriate steps towards correction. I’m ready to step into a braver, larger, “gun free” world.
In the hopes that coming to grips with my problem will help me down my path of corrective action here is the perfect sample of my infamous gun pose. Bang. Bang.
It’s not something I normally do in daily life, only when someone is snapping pictures of me. I thought I had it under control however just last week I was reminded once again that this is a problem I need to keep constant watch over and be mindful of.
Last week, Juan (a Spanish friend of mine) started calling me by a nickname, which I was honestly honored by and made me laugh … a lot. The name, El Pistolero. It means … The Gunman. Yes, I’m that guy.
I’m the guy that in just about every picture you see me in I end up making “the guns” motion with my hands. I’m not sure how I started down this path of photo-posing destruction, but here I am and admitting the problem is the first step. Right?
Honestly, with the new nickname (el pistolero … the gunman) I’ve come to embrace my problem, identify it and take the appropriate steps towards correction. I’m ready to step into a braver, larger, “gun free” world.
In the hopes that coming to grips with my problem will help me down my path of corrective action here is the perfect sample of my infamous gun pose. Bang. Bang.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Taylors Falls
Well after being pretty much sick and overworked the entire summer I finally escaped for a day with the girlfriend. We went down for the day to Taylors Falls, and what a good day it was! I hadn’t been to Taylors Falls since I was a kid, and well let’s face it when you’re a kid you can’t appreciate anything, right? Right!!
It was sooo beautiful a top the rocky cliffs overlooking hundreds of trees turning color with the river running far far below. You should go if you get the chance!! The leaves are turning now and it’s beautiful. Only less than an hour’s drive from Minneapolis. If you do go be sure to go over to the Wisconsin side and drive next to the cliffs by the river and walk around on the trails. You won’t be disappointed.
Well as I do with every adventure, I of course had to bust out the old trusty camera and take a bunch of pictures. For you impatient readers enjoy a few selects below. Otherwise to see them all click HERE.
It was sooo beautiful a top the rocky cliffs overlooking hundreds of trees turning color with the river running far far below. You should go if you get the chance!! The leaves are turning now and it’s beautiful. Only less than an hour’s drive from Minneapolis. If you do go be sure to go over to the Wisconsin side and drive next to the cliffs by the river and walk around on the trails. You won’t be disappointed.
Well as I do with every adventure, I of course had to bust out the old trusty camera and take a bunch of pictures. For you impatient readers enjoy a few selects below. Otherwise to see them all click HERE.
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