Saturday, May 28, 2011
Taking a Break
I want to devote my attention to my novel therefore the blog is being put on hold. Plus nobody's been commenting lately so it seems like I've lost my beloved readers. Farewell for the time being. If I feel compelled or if I receive requests for new posts I will honor them, but for now my focus is my novel.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Story Developing
blah blah blah. That's about all that's on my mind right now. No thoughts, feelings, emotions, or desires. Except for the desire to sleep so that I can wake up and start yet another productive day. My boss at work is leaving for brighter possibilities. I'm sad because I really like my boss, we get along very well. She's one of the main reasons I came back to work after I left the other job. I really didn't like the other boss; not a very nice guy. When I heard that my old boss was having difficulties filling shifts I hurried back to reclaim my old post as the only Baristo in the cafe (plenty of female baristas but I stand alone as the male in the cafe). Anyway, now she's leaving and it feels weird; but strangely may open up new possibilities for me as well. Story developing...
I was listening to Gaga's new album today and my initial feelings were: eh, not great. I think there are a few great songs on there but the album's got this weird euro/foreign accent vibe with some jazzy saxophone riffs mixed in. I don't know, I'll have to give it a closer listen tomorrow and the next day. I love Gaga and she can truly do no wrong by me but I fear that this album may have been rushed and as a result falls into that common category of an album with two or three solid singles and about ten filler songs. Don't turn into a filler song artist Gaga, you're better than that. Still I'll have to reserve my judgement until a couple full runs of listening to the whole album.
I don't know what else to write about; I'm lost. Probably because I'm thinking about my novel and possibly because I want to get into bed and keep reading Shattering Glass. At the same time I want to go to sleep because I need to wake up early tomorrow. Time for some agua and then reading in bed. More tomorrow hopefully.
I was listening to Gaga's new album today and my initial feelings were: eh, not great. I think there are a few great songs on there but the album's got this weird euro/foreign accent vibe with some jazzy saxophone riffs mixed in. I don't know, I'll have to give it a closer listen tomorrow and the next day. I love Gaga and she can truly do no wrong by me but I fear that this album may have been rushed and as a result falls into that common category of an album with two or three solid singles and about ten filler songs. Don't turn into a filler song artist Gaga, you're better than that. Still I'll have to reserve my judgement until a couple full runs of listening to the whole album.
I don't know what else to write about; I'm lost. Probably because I'm thinking about my novel and possibly because I want to get into bed and keep reading Shattering Glass. At the same time I want to go to sleep because I need to wake up early tomorrow. Time for some agua and then reading in bed. More tomorrow hopefully.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Shawn T Wants to Kill Me
So excited, I wrote the first chapter of my future novel today and I think I came up with a title. Thank you to all of those on facebook who gave suggestions for my protagonist's name, I really appreciate it and I took all suggestions into consideration. I'm feeling good about where my novel is headed and I hope that continues. If I can stay diligent with this I think my goal of 100,000 words by the end of summer is doable. After all, I got out 3,500 today. It wasn't easy and my eyes really hurt after but it still happened. I'm relieved that I finally got rolling with this because I felt like I was dragging my feet on it for a little while. For some reason I'm finding myself scared and self-conscious about my novel and my writing in general but I feel like I just need to go with it and put it all out there. I'm putting a lot more of myself (real feelings, emotions, and experiences) into the novel than I expected but I'm strangely ok with it. At the same time I'm afraid that digging that deep into a memory bank from a time in my life that wasn't exactly positive may have adverse effects; but I hope that my current state of mind will balance me out emotionally. I'm pumped, hopefully more work on that tomorrow.
No comments on yesterday's post :( and I was really proud of that one. Come on party people, I even included pictures for those of you who like visuals. Pictures of a really pretty girl too. Oh well, I'm still super excited for the Hunger Games movie.
Today I was supposed to have started the max circuit training of Insanity. I knew it was going to be a hellacious day with Insanity because before starting the max circuit I had to do a fit test to assess my progress; no easy feat. I gave it all I had during the fit test in an attempt to boost all of my previous numbers and by the end of it I was drenched in sweat and drained of energy. I don't know if you're meant to do the max circuit right after the fit test but that's what I assumed. I attempted it and barely made it through the warm up because I was so tired. Maybe it was the fact that I slept in late or that last week was recovery week so my body's not used to the increased workload but I was drained and my muscles were fatigued. I was so disappointed when I finished but at the same time I've always been a firm believer that one must always listen to his/her body. My body was telling me that it had enough after the fit test. I'll have to begin with my first max workout tomorrow and I'm hoping for the best. The way I see it is that I'll just go for as long as I can as hard as I can and hopefully I'll be able to make it through the whole thing; that's all I can do. I think Shawn T (the head trainer/host/MC of the Insanity video) wanted to kill me today, and had I kept going he would have succeeded. Tomorrow's a new day with a new challenge and I'll have to go from there.
I started a new book today too titled Shattering Glass by Gail Giles. This book was part of the literature circles assigned in my English 390 class and it sounded really interesting so I decided to give it a shot. I made it halfway through before my eyes began to hurt so then I put it down and turned on the Heat vs. Bulls playoff game to watch Lebron and D Wade take a commanding 3-1 lead on the Bulls. So happy for Lebron and the Heat and I really hope he finally gets his title this year. I'm also really happy that Bosh has finally emerged as I expected he would all year. I predicted that Lebron and Wade would consistently be double teamed opening Bosh up for easy buckets and that's happened a lot this series. I also predicted at the beginning of the year that Lebron should just be the point guard and run the offense which he's been doing a lot this series. I saw him as a new school version of Magic Johnson and it's been working very well. I'd love to be an NBA coach, anybody hiring?
Overall I was happy with all of the reading and writing that I accomplished today. Hopefully more to come tomorrow.
No comments on yesterday's post :( and I was really proud of that one. Come on party people, I even included pictures for those of you who like visuals. Pictures of a really pretty girl too. Oh well, I'm still super excited for the Hunger Games movie.
Today I was supposed to have started the max circuit training of Insanity. I knew it was going to be a hellacious day with Insanity because before starting the max circuit I had to do a fit test to assess my progress; no easy feat. I gave it all I had during the fit test in an attempt to boost all of my previous numbers and by the end of it I was drenched in sweat and drained of energy. I don't know if you're meant to do the max circuit right after the fit test but that's what I assumed. I attempted it and barely made it through the warm up because I was so tired. Maybe it was the fact that I slept in late or that last week was recovery week so my body's not used to the increased workload but I was drained and my muscles were fatigued. I was so disappointed when I finished but at the same time I've always been a firm believer that one must always listen to his/her body. My body was telling me that it had enough after the fit test. I'll have to begin with my first max workout tomorrow and I'm hoping for the best. The way I see it is that I'll just go for as long as I can as hard as I can and hopefully I'll be able to make it through the whole thing; that's all I can do. I think Shawn T (the head trainer/host/MC of the Insanity video) wanted to kill me today, and had I kept going he would have succeeded. Tomorrow's a new day with a new challenge and I'll have to go from there.
I started a new book today too titled Shattering Glass by Gail Giles. This book was part of the literature circles assigned in my English 390 class and it sounded really interesting so I decided to give it a shot. I made it halfway through before my eyes began to hurt so then I put it down and turned on the Heat vs. Bulls playoff game to watch Lebron and D Wade take a commanding 3-1 lead on the Bulls. So happy for Lebron and the Heat and I really hope he finally gets his title this year. I'm also really happy that Bosh has finally emerged as I expected he would all year. I predicted that Lebron and Wade would consistently be double teamed opening Bosh up for easy buckets and that's happened a lot this series. I also predicted at the beginning of the year that Lebron should just be the point guard and run the offense which he's been doing a lot this series. I saw him as a new school version of Magic Johnson and it's been working very well. I'd love to be an NBA coach, anybody hiring?
Overall I was happy with all of the reading and writing that I accomplished today. Hopefully more to come tomorrow.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Pumped for Hunger Games Movie
I love working in the morning as opposed to closing. It's so nice to just be out by 4 pm and have the rest of the day to just do whatever. Of course it's also nice when you have solid plans and fun activities to fill the later hours of the day. Today it was not so; but at least I got some reading done and some quality me time at my favorite Starbucks. I figured I'd rather be productive then sit at home and channel surf or browse the net. I was about to start my manuscript too but then I decided against it due to the fact that I had slightly exhausted myself with the reading. I think I'm going to begin outlining the book tonight. I really want to get cracking on this thing and days like tomorrow (day off) should provide plenty of free time to get some quality writing done.
So I finished The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan (the second book in the Kane Chronicles series). Overall I enjoyed it way more than the first book of the series; The Red Pyramid. If you like young adult fantasy literature along the lines of Narnia and Harry Potter I would highly recommend Riordan. I find his books to be fun and quick reads while also very educational. For instance, with the Percy Jackson series I learned about all of the different gods from Greek mythology and their roles. I think that the books could be a great tool to pair with a social studies curriculum (there's the teacher in me) about Ancient Greece. The Kane Chronicles accomplished the same feat of a fun read that's also educational only this series focuses on Ancient Egyptian society and Egyptian gods. I'm a big fan of Riordan's writing and I highly recommend any of his books to someone who enjoys the young adult fantasy genre. The books could probably be read by kids 5th and 6th grade if they're diligent enough readers (I certainly wouldn't have gotten through a 400 page book at that age but I wasn't very driven at that age).
I also watched a movie tonight titled Red Hill. It's an Australian movie featuring Ryan Kwanten (Jason Stackhouse in HBO's True Blood) about a rookie police officer who walks into a very messy situation on his first day at a new precinct. I didn't have great expectations going in and I was even tempted to mail it back to Netflix before I watched it. I just had a feeling that it would be nothing special. I didn't have anything super pressing to tend do so I watched it and got what I expected. It was an alright movie with an interesting plot twist at the end but nothing to write home about. If you're debating watching this movie I'd say don't bother. Nothing special about this one folks.
To switch gears one movie that I am super psyched about is The Hunger Games (In production). If you haven't read the books go and get the first book now. Excellent young adult series about a futuristic dystopia with adolescents fighting to the death. Trust me you will not regret this read. Anyway, as soon as I finished the first book one of the first thoughts was that it would make a kick ass movie if done well. So naturally when I heard that The Hunger Games movie was in production I was very excited. I lost some excitement though when I learned that Jennifer Lawrence would be cast as the female lead and main character, Katniss Everdeen. Nothing against J Law but in the book Katniss is described as a girl with olive skin and dark brown hair. Lawrence is kind of the opposite being that up until this point she has upheld the post of young Hollywood blonde bombshell. If you haven't seen her in her red Oscar dress and you find women attractive I suggest you do so. Actually, here you go:
So as you can see, pretty girl but no olive-skinned brunette right? Call me picky but I like it when movies keep book characters authentic (Exhibit A Harry Potter Movies-Nailed it). One reason why I hated the Percy Jackson movie; a few main characters were fundamentally different from how they were described in the book (and a few were omitted from the movie altogether). Anyway this morning as I waltzed into work what did I catch a glimpse of...the cover of entertainment weekly featuring none other than Jenner Lawrence dressed in her full Katniss outfit with brown hair and a tan to match. Check it out:
I'm absolutely thrilled by what I saw this morning. I'm really happy to hear that the head honchos in charge of putting this film together actually care about authenticity. I'm also happy about how passionate Lawrence is about the character as she explained in her interview in the magazine (of course I read the article). Bottom line, I'm now psyched for this movie and I rescind any previous doubts I had about the film in production.
And all of a sudden I'm very warm; I'll have to turn on the AC. Summer is around the corner although you wouldn't know it with all of this rain. You know, I used to want to move to Seattle or somewhere in the Pacific Northwest but now I already feel like I live in Seattle. It's rainy or overcast every day so why leave here for the same weather 3,000 miles away. Crazy times, where is the sun when you need it? I'd like a day without rain please, let's make it happen soon shall we? Buenos noches.
So I finished The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan (the second book in the Kane Chronicles series). Overall I enjoyed it way more than the first book of the series; The Red Pyramid. If you like young adult fantasy literature along the lines of Narnia and Harry Potter I would highly recommend Riordan. I find his books to be fun and quick reads while also very educational. For instance, with the Percy Jackson series I learned about all of the different gods from Greek mythology and their roles. I think that the books could be a great tool to pair with a social studies curriculum (there's the teacher in me) about Ancient Greece. The Kane Chronicles accomplished the same feat of a fun read that's also educational only this series focuses on Ancient Egyptian society and Egyptian gods. I'm a big fan of Riordan's writing and I highly recommend any of his books to someone who enjoys the young adult fantasy genre. The books could probably be read by kids 5th and 6th grade if they're diligent enough readers (I certainly wouldn't have gotten through a 400 page book at that age but I wasn't very driven at that age).
I also watched a movie tonight titled Red Hill. It's an Australian movie featuring Ryan Kwanten (Jason Stackhouse in HBO's True Blood) about a rookie police officer who walks into a very messy situation on his first day at a new precinct. I didn't have great expectations going in and I was even tempted to mail it back to Netflix before I watched it. I just had a feeling that it would be nothing special. I didn't have anything super pressing to tend do so I watched it and got what I expected. It was an alright movie with an interesting plot twist at the end but nothing to write home about. If you're debating watching this movie I'd say don't bother. Nothing special about this one folks.
To switch gears one movie that I am super psyched about is The Hunger Games (In production). If you haven't read the books go and get the first book now. Excellent young adult series about a futuristic dystopia with adolescents fighting to the death. Trust me you will not regret this read. Anyway, as soon as I finished the first book one of the first thoughts was that it would make a kick ass movie if done well. So naturally when I heard that The Hunger Games movie was in production I was very excited. I lost some excitement though when I learned that Jennifer Lawrence would be cast as the female lead and main character, Katniss Everdeen. Nothing against J Law but in the book Katniss is described as a girl with olive skin and dark brown hair. Lawrence is kind of the opposite being that up until this point she has upheld the post of young Hollywood blonde bombshell. If you haven't seen her in her red Oscar dress and you find women attractive I suggest you do so. Actually, here you go:
So as you can see, pretty girl but no olive-skinned brunette right? Call me picky but I like it when movies keep book characters authentic (Exhibit A Harry Potter Movies-Nailed it). One reason why I hated the Percy Jackson movie; a few main characters were fundamentally different from how they were described in the book (and a few were omitted from the movie altogether). Anyway this morning as I waltzed into work what did I catch a glimpse of...the cover of entertainment weekly featuring none other than Jenner Lawrence dressed in her full Katniss outfit with brown hair and a tan to match. Check it out:
I'm absolutely thrilled by what I saw this morning. I'm really happy to hear that the head honchos in charge of putting this film together actually care about authenticity. I'm also happy about how passionate Lawrence is about the character as she explained in her interview in the magazine (of course I read the article). Bottom line, I'm now psyched for this movie and I rescind any previous doubts I had about the film in production.
And all of a sudden I'm very warm; I'll have to turn on the AC. Summer is around the corner although you wouldn't know it with all of this rain. You know, I used to want to move to Seattle or somewhere in the Pacific Northwest but now I already feel like I live in Seattle. It's rainy or overcast every day so why leave here for the same weather 3,000 miles away. Crazy times, where is the sun when you need it? I'd like a day without rain please, let's make it happen soon shall we? Buenos noches.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Burgers for the Boys
I'd say last night's cookout was a success. Most people seemed like they had a good time and the food turned out to be pretty tasty. Kyle and I got to say 'Burgers for the Boys' plenty of times even though the burgers were for the boys and girls. Overall a good kick off bbq for 2011; hopefully there will be many more to come.
I don't know what else I have to say about today and yesterday; maybe I'm just tired. Today I essentially woke up, cleaned up, went to work, helped Kyle and Sam move some furniture, worked out, and now I'm here. I must say the best aspect of this weekend was probably that I got to see so many of my friends at once. Too bad Gnoffo and Ashley couldn't have stayed longer but I'm happy about the time I was able to spend with them. Devon and Anna came out too and they brought Gretchen along which was a very nice addition to the bbq. Well since I don't really have anything else to write about I think this calls for some flash fiction. Also I'm stuck on a name for the main character of my future novel. He's going to be an angsty and confused teen. Right now I'm thinking James or Jack (for some reason I want it to be a 'J' name, probably because it will be slightly autobiographical. Anyway, if you have any suggestions please leave comments.
Bought Sliders. Hot Dogs. Timeless Combo.
Cook out. Good friends. Many Laughs.
Missing guest. Slight downer. Oh Well.
Woke up. Cleaned up. Worst Part.
Big crowd. So busy. Work Sucked.
Moved furniture. With Kyle. Common Occurrence.
Worked out. Late night. Welcome Sleep.
I don't know what else I have to say about today and yesterday; maybe I'm just tired. Today I essentially woke up, cleaned up, went to work, helped Kyle and Sam move some furniture, worked out, and now I'm here. I must say the best aspect of this weekend was probably that I got to see so many of my friends at once. Too bad Gnoffo and Ashley couldn't have stayed longer but I'm happy about the time I was able to spend with them. Devon and Anna came out too and they brought Gretchen along which was a very nice addition to the bbq. Well since I don't really have anything else to write about I think this calls for some flash fiction. Also I'm stuck on a name for the main character of my future novel. He's going to be an angsty and confused teen. Right now I'm thinking James or Jack (for some reason I want it to be a 'J' name, probably because it will be slightly autobiographical. Anyway, if you have any suggestions please leave comments.
Bought Sliders. Hot Dogs. Timeless Combo.
Cook out. Good friends. Many Laughs.
Missing guest. Slight downer. Oh Well.
Woke up. Cleaned up. Worst Part.
Big crowd. So busy. Work Sucked.
Moved furniture. With Kyle. Common Occurrence.
Worked out. Late night. Welcome Sleep.
Friday, May 20, 2011
For some reason-still unknown to me-I was in a really bad mood at work tonight. It's almost like I saw it coming; as I commented last night about how I really wasn't liking work recently. I don't know what it is-maybe I've just been working too much lately-but definitely something I've got to break out of. It was to the point that afterwards I just wanted to come home and relax as opposed to meeting a good friend of mine out in Old City. Sure I'm not the biggest fan of the city but I thought it may have been fun to go out tonight. Then I finished my shift and realized that it was best for me to just come home, relax, and let tomorrow come.
And now I'm lost. Maybe it's because I'm super tired and all I want to do right now is either finish my book or listen to my newly purchased Adele album (I bought 19 at work today, sadly we were out of 21). Either way tomorrow should be better and should feature far more writing possibilities. I'll have some preparations to make for the bbq so I'll likely be up early in the morning. Sometimes I guess we all just need a quiet night to ourselves. Tonight was my quiet night. I'll bounce back tomorrow.
And now I'm lost. Maybe it's because I'm super tired and all I want to do right now is either finish my book or listen to my newly purchased Adele album (I bought 19 at work today, sadly we were out of 21). Either way tomorrow should be better and should feature far more writing possibilities. I'll have some preparations to make for the bbq so I'll likely be up early in the morning. Sometimes I guess we all just need a quiet night to ourselves. Tonight was my quiet night. I'll bounce back tomorrow.
Loving Adele
I'm really not looking forward to working tomorrow. For some reason I really haven't enjoyed work lately. It just seems so tedious, but hey you've got to pay the bills somehow. That's all I keep telling myself: It's not about the job it's just about the money. I try to make it as fun as I can but it's still tough at times. Oh well, what else can I do but keep moving forward.
So tomorrow and Saturday are employee appreciation days at work meaning I get 50% off anything in the store. Normally you'd think I'd go crazy but in reality the 50% doesn't change the fact that I don't have too much money to begin with. I'll likely look for a couple of things for a few people in my life who have birthdays upcoming and if there's time I'll buy a thing or two for myself. One item that I will purchase for myself is Adele's album 21 (and possibly her first album 19). I've been obsessed with Adele lately. Rolling in the Deep is my favorite radio played song so far in 2011. Off the recommendation of a friend I just watched her performance of Someone Like You at the 2011 Brit awards (I think they are sort of like the British Grammy's). It's an amazing performance I highly recommend watching it. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qemWRToNYJY. Check it out if you have four to five minutes to spare; if you like Adele and/or good music I guarantee you'll enjoy this performance.
I don't know why but I don't have a burning desire to buy a whole lot of books, cds, dvds, and other Borders products within the next couple of days. I mean sure it would be nice to buy The Town, Harry Potter 7 Part I (DVDs), along with the numerous books that I would like to add to my collection. Right now I'm trying to keep my focus which is to save money for student teaching. It can be difficult with such tempting offers from my employer but I must resist for the greater good. Plus with a couple of birthday's in the near future along with some other fun events I'll have to allocate my money in an intelligent way to the important occasions. Oh well; I have simple tastes. I personally would rather spend my money on others. Call me crazy but I have just about all that I need right now. Plus I need no further distractions to take me away from my writing, working out, and productivity. It's crazy how much my TV watching has decreased over the past year. I'm ok with it though, I mean with so much crap on TV I'd rather be productive than channel surfing. Looking back to the past couple of years things have really changed in my life. Change can be excellent, especially in my case.
So tomorrow and Saturday are employee appreciation days at work meaning I get 50% off anything in the store. Normally you'd think I'd go crazy but in reality the 50% doesn't change the fact that I don't have too much money to begin with. I'll likely look for a couple of things for a few people in my life who have birthdays upcoming and if there's time I'll buy a thing or two for myself. One item that I will purchase for myself is Adele's album 21 (and possibly her first album 19). I've been obsessed with Adele lately. Rolling in the Deep is my favorite radio played song so far in 2011. Off the recommendation of a friend I just watched her performance of Someone Like You at the 2011 Brit awards (I think they are sort of like the British Grammy's). It's an amazing performance I highly recommend watching it. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qemWRToNYJY. Check it out if you have four to five minutes to spare; if you like Adele and/or good music I guarantee you'll enjoy this performance.
I don't know why but I don't have a burning desire to buy a whole lot of books, cds, dvds, and other Borders products within the next couple of days. I mean sure it would be nice to buy The Town, Harry Potter 7 Part I (DVDs), along with the numerous books that I would like to add to my collection. Right now I'm trying to keep my focus which is to save money for student teaching. It can be difficult with such tempting offers from my employer but I must resist for the greater good. Plus with a couple of birthday's in the near future along with some other fun events I'll have to allocate my money in an intelligent way to the important occasions. Oh well; I have simple tastes. I personally would rather spend my money on others. Call me crazy but I have just about all that I need right now. Plus I need no further distractions to take me away from my writing, working out, and productivity. It's crazy how much my TV watching has decreased over the past year. I'm ok with it though, I mean with so much crap on TV I'd rather be productive than channel surfing. Looking back to the past couple of years things have really changed in my life. Change can be excellent, especially in my case.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Just because I'm a.....
I've been really distracted from blogging lately. Mostly because I've been sick but also because I've been thinking more about my first novel. I've got some ideas bouncing around and although I'd love to share them I don't want anyone stealing anything from me. Don't worry my close friends, when I finish the first manuscript you will all receive a copy.
I thought I had a good thing going with my role as a critic of society but now I'm not so sure because I don't really have all that much to say. Maybe I'll go into something I can't stand with working in retail. This reminds me of an exercise we did in on of my classes last semester. In the exercise you were to choose a role that you take on in your everyday life. Then you would take the phrase : Just because I am a (insert your role) it doesn't mean that I... Confused? Ok for example: Just because I work in retail it doesn't mean that I'm stupid. Get it?
So one thing that annoys the crap out of me at my job as a baristo is when people feel the need to spell out simple four letter names. I take names so that I can call the people when their drinks are done; it's more personal that way according to my employer (in my opinion it's more creepy than anything and a lot of people don't even want to give me their names but that's another topic altogether). For instance here's how a conversation would go:
Me: Can I have your name so I can call you when your drink is ready?
Customer: It's Anna, A-N-N-A.
I mean seriously, does the lady think I'm that stupid that I don't know how to spell Anna. And even if I don't who cares, as long as I can pronounce it correctly. But back to my main point, why does everybody assume that working in retail means that you're retarded? I mean seriously is it the improbable that I'm only working part-time while finishing a graduate-level degree? Then again the idiots that spell out their four letter names probably don't even know what a graduate level degree is. They're the same people who don't even know what they're drinking but just order it because the like the name. Or the same people who ask if there's ice in iced coffee (actually has happened twice) or who believe they're at Starbucks while there are big signs that would tell them they're not. To sum it all up, Just because I work in retail doesn't mean I'm stupid. I mean come one an elementary school kid could spell anna, matt, joan, rick, jean, and any other four letter names.
And then how about those people who refuse to give their names. Oh yes I can do you so much harm by knowing your first name. It's weird, I mean seriously are you so fearful of unfamiliar people that your refuse to give your first name? What possible harm could come from such a thing? It's sad how fearful Americans are. I wear a name tag that advertises my name every day and I think nothing of it. When you begin a new job or a new class you have to give your name to unfamiliar people, why is a public place any different? I just don't understand the hesitation. You can't go through life being afraid of everything and everyone. Otherwise you'll eventually just be stuck inside the whole time. Then again most people are, it's rare that I ever see my neighbors outside. I mean sure I like my house but I prefer fresh air more. Maybe that's what I could eventually title my blog: A Society of Fear. That's if I keep going with this societal critic role.
That's all I feel like writing for right now. I have ideas brewing though so maybe more later. For those of you who work in retail and/or food service tell yourself everyday: Just because I work in retail/food service doesn't mean I'm stupid. That way whenever someone treats you like you are you can smile and internally tell them to go fuck themselves knowing how wrong they are about you. Cheers.
I thought I had a good thing going with my role as a critic of society but now I'm not so sure because I don't really have all that much to say. Maybe I'll go into something I can't stand with working in retail. This reminds me of an exercise we did in on of my classes last semester. In the exercise you were to choose a role that you take on in your everyday life. Then you would take the phrase : Just because I am a (insert your role) it doesn't mean that I... Confused? Ok for example: Just because I work in retail it doesn't mean that I'm stupid. Get it?
So one thing that annoys the crap out of me at my job as a baristo is when people feel the need to spell out simple four letter names. I take names so that I can call the people when their drinks are done; it's more personal that way according to my employer (in my opinion it's more creepy than anything and a lot of people don't even want to give me their names but that's another topic altogether). For instance here's how a conversation would go:
Me: Can I have your name so I can call you when your drink is ready?
Customer: It's Anna, A-N-N-A.
I mean seriously, does the lady think I'm that stupid that I don't know how to spell Anna. And even if I don't who cares, as long as I can pronounce it correctly. But back to my main point, why does everybody assume that working in retail means that you're retarded? I mean seriously is it the improbable that I'm only working part-time while finishing a graduate-level degree? Then again the idiots that spell out their four letter names probably don't even know what a graduate level degree is. They're the same people who don't even know what they're drinking but just order it because the like the name. Or the same people who ask if there's ice in iced coffee (actually has happened twice) or who believe they're at Starbucks while there are big signs that would tell them they're not. To sum it all up, Just because I work in retail doesn't mean I'm stupid. I mean come one an elementary school kid could spell anna, matt, joan, rick, jean, and any other four letter names.
And then how about those people who refuse to give their names. Oh yes I can do you so much harm by knowing your first name. It's weird, I mean seriously are you so fearful of unfamiliar people that your refuse to give your first name? What possible harm could come from such a thing? It's sad how fearful Americans are. I wear a name tag that advertises my name every day and I think nothing of it. When you begin a new job or a new class you have to give your name to unfamiliar people, why is a public place any different? I just don't understand the hesitation. You can't go through life being afraid of everything and everyone. Otherwise you'll eventually just be stuck inside the whole time. Then again most people are, it's rare that I ever see my neighbors outside. I mean sure I like my house but I prefer fresh air more. Maybe that's what I could eventually title my blog: A Society of Fear. That's if I keep going with this societal critic role.
That's all I feel like writing for right now. I have ideas brewing though so maybe more later. For those of you who work in retail and/or food service tell yourself everyday: Just because I work in retail/food service doesn't mean I'm stupid. That way whenever someone treats you like you are you can smile and internally tell them to go fuck themselves knowing how wrong they are about you. Cheers.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
It's Your Birthday? Here, Go Play Pong
Today I learned a very valuable lesson: Black tea on an empty stomach is no bueno. In an attempt to oust my weasing chest cough I downed a large class of hot black tea and wow did it turn my insides. For a while I thought I was going to be sick at work. A few times I debated running for the bathroom but in the end I toughed it out and eventually felt better. Later in the day I explained my near-sick experience to one of my managers who informed me that black tea can have that effect when drinking it on an empty stomach. I wouldn't say my stomach was empty but it certainly hadn't been filled in a few hours time. Anyway it was my valuable lesson for the day.
Tonight was nice, a quiet family dinner with my immediate family, my cousin, and his wife. You wouldn't think Sunday would have been our family dinner night being that it's not the sabbath for Jews but hey it worked out that way today. Plus we didn't have a sit down dinner last night because I was working so I guess it made sense. In any case, it was nice to have a family dinner; so underrated those family dinners are. Wow I just thought of how much I've been working lately. I worked this whole weekend, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. I may as well have slept at Borders I was there so much. I should just inflate an air mattress in the basement. That would be a sight for the opening manager but I honestly feel like that place has become my second home. Not necessarily in a good way but whatever, at least my paychecks will look nice.
Tonight was nuts, I was driving to West Chester for Sam's pre-graduation celebration and it started torrential down pouring. Then mother nature stepped it up a notch and decided to throw some hail in the mix. Lots of people were pulling over but I decided to power through the treacherous weather. If any car could handle it Forrest could (love my Subaru, best cars ever). It's funny how Forrest in an Outback and Subaru actually has a model of car called a Forester. But see my car Forrest is named after my favorite movie and character of all time, Forrest Gump, and for the fact that he's forest green. Double meaning, you know you love it. But anyway, crazy weather. I was mostly motivated by my desire to be on time. Funny how I had my priorities lines up tonight 1. Be on time 2. Stay alive by not driving in horrid conditions. My thought was that if I kept driving eventually I'd come out of the downpour-which I did-and if I didn't then at least I'd still be on time. Oh well, thanks to the Big Guy for keeping an eye on me.
The bar was a good time, a combination of old friends and new went very well. I was playing really well in beer pong-undefeated actually-until my partner and I decided to be really nice and let a random girl play. We were doing very well and then this girl came up and said it was her birthday and that she really wanted to play. The DJ/MC wouldn't allow her to move up on the list so my partner and I let her take our place. I figured it would be our nice deed for the night plus there was no prize or anything and it was all for fun. And if you think about it we left on top, undefeated for the night. I'd say it was a success. The rain even let up during our walk over which was so nice. I'm not feelin' this upcoming week of rain that's expected; what's that about? I think April was rainy enough don't you all? Oh well, no point in getting worked up over something I can't control. Time for bed so I can wake up to watch Sam walk at her graduation.
Tonight was nice, a quiet family dinner with my immediate family, my cousin, and his wife. You wouldn't think Sunday would have been our family dinner night being that it's not the sabbath for Jews but hey it worked out that way today. Plus we didn't have a sit down dinner last night because I was working so I guess it made sense. In any case, it was nice to have a family dinner; so underrated those family dinners are. Wow I just thought of how much I've been working lately. I worked this whole weekend, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. I may as well have slept at Borders I was there so much. I should just inflate an air mattress in the basement. That would be a sight for the opening manager but I honestly feel like that place has become my second home. Not necessarily in a good way but whatever, at least my paychecks will look nice.
Tonight was nuts, I was driving to West Chester for Sam's pre-graduation celebration and it started torrential down pouring. Then mother nature stepped it up a notch and decided to throw some hail in the mix. Lots of people were pulling over but I decided to power through the treacherous weather. If any car could handle it Forrest could (love my Subaru, best cars ever). It's funny how Forrest in an Outback and Subaru actually has a model of car called a Forester. But see my car Forrest is named after my favorite movie and character of all time, Forrest Gump, and for the fact that he's forest green. Double meaning, you know you love it. But anyway, crazy weather. I was mostly motivated by my desire to be on time. Funny how I had my priorities lines up tonight 1. Be on time 2. Stay alive by not driving in horrid conditions. My thought was that if I kept driving eventually I'd come out of the downpour-which I did-and if I didn't then at least I'd still be on time. Oh well, thanks to the Big Guy for keeping an eye on me.
The bar was a good time, a combination of old friends and new went very well. I was playing really well in beer pong-undefeated actually-until my partner and I decided to be really nice and let a random girl play. We were doing very well and then this girl came up and said it was her birthday and that she really wanted to play. The DJ/MC wouldn't allow her to move up on the list so my partner and I let her take our place. I figured it would be our nice deed for the night plus there was no prize or anything and it was all for fun. And if you think about it we left on top, undefeated for the night. I'd say it was a success. The rain even let up during our walk over which was so nice. I'm not feelin' this upcoming week of rain that's expected; what's that about? I think April was rainy enough don't you all? Oh well, no point in getting worked up over something I can't control. Time for bed so I can wake up to watch Sam walk at her graduation.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Smoker's Cough? But I don't Smoke
I have a super soar throat right now and I'm pretty sure I had a fever earlier today. I say this because I was walking around the mall with my family members and I found myself sweating. Mind you, the mall is air conditioned and I was in a t-shirt but for some reason I was perspiring. I have this mucous filled cough that is kicking my ass right now but I'm trying to ignore it and move onward. A new found friend suggested an orange juice remedy that I've been trying for the past couple of days and it has been working slightly. Otherwise I'm just on my normal regimen of sleep, warm blankets, tea with honey, and vitamins. My reliance on vitamins as opposed to medications makes me feel like I'm a scientologist. Oh well, although I may shy away from prescription drugs I don't believe that there's an alien in a mountain somewhere on earth or any other of L Ron Hubbard's teachings.
I finished Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas the other day and I wasn't very impressed. I'll have to ask my friend who recommended that I read Thompson if he has any other books that he recommends. I mean I like the style and the Thompson's voice I just didn't take anything out of a two hundred page drug and alcohol binge between a guy and his lawyer. Made me want to watch the movie but I tried to take something out of the novel and I found it difficult. I started a new book over the past couple of days titled The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan. It's a little kid book, aka YA fantasy literature. It's kind of in the Harry Potter genre. It's funny because whenever I check those types of books out at work my bosses give me crap asking me, 'When are you going to move up to the big boy books?' I'm sorry if the YA fantasy novels are just more interesting and fun reads but if I'm reading for leisure I'm going to make sure that I enjoy myself. I'm enjoying the book so far and hopefully I'll get through it within the next week so I can move on to a new book. So many books to read this summer and so little time, I'll have to pick up the pace. Who needs sleep right? Not this semi-sick author with a psuedo smokers cough-even though I don't smoke except the occasional hookah sesh.
I did my Insanity session when I got home from work tonight. I thought it would be way more challenging at night but I was surprised with my performance. My cousin and his wife came from overseas to visit so I didn't have a chance to exercise earlier today. Instead we ventured to the glorious metropolis known at the King of Prussia Mall. I didn't buy anything but as always I saw many things that I wouldn't mind owning. Oh how glad I am that I can exercise restraint from spending money that I don't have. I'd love to join them tomorrow when the venture out to the outlets but unfortunately it would just be another disappointment. I can't wait until I have a real job and money that I can actually spend on things that I want (I know I say that a lot).
Tomorrow night should be fun, I'll be going out with some old and new friends for a celebratory pre-graduation night for my good friend's girlfriend. It'll be nice to go out and it should be a change of pace being that we don't usually go out on Sunday nights. I'm excited for the possibilities. Now if you'd excuse me I need to go and rest so that hopefully this cough will be gone in the morning. Long shot but one can dream right?
I finished Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas the other day and I wasn't very impressed. I'll have to ask my friend who recommended that I read Thompson if he has any other books that he recommends. I mean I like the style and the Thompson's voice I just didn't take anything out of a two hundred page drug and alcohol binge between a guy and his lawyer. Made me want to watch the movie but I tried to take something out of the novel and I found it difficult. I started a new book over the past couple of days titled The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan. It's a little kid book, aka YA fantasy literature. It's kind of in the Harry Potter genre. It's funny because whenever I check those types of books out at work my bosses give me crap asking me, 'When are you going to move up to the big boy books?' I'm sorry if the YA fantasy novels are just more interesting and fun reads but if I'm reading for leisure I'm going to make sure that I enjoy myself. I'm enjoying the book so far and hopefully I'll get through it within the next week so I can move on to a new book. So many books to read this summer and so little time, I'll have to pick up the pace. Who needs sleep right? Not this semi-sick author with a psuedo smokers cough-even though I don't smoke except the occasional hookah sesh.
I did my Insanity session when I got home from work tonight. I thought it would be way more challenging at night but I was surprised with my performance. My cousin and his wife came from overseas to visit so I didn't have a chance to exercise earlier today. Instead we ventured to the glorious metropolis known at the King of Prussia Mall. I didn't buy anything but as always I saw many things that I wouldn't mind owning. Oh how glad I am that I can exercise restraint from spending money that I don't have. I'd love to join them tomorrow when the venture out to the outlets but unfortunately it would just be another disappointment. I can't wait until I have a real job and money that I can actually spend on things that I want (I know I say that a lot).
Tomorrow night should be fun, I'll be going out with some old and new friends for a celebratory pre-graduation night for my good friend's girlfriend. It'll be nice to go out and it should be a change of pace being that we don't usually go out on Sunday nights. I'm excited for the possibilities. Now if you'd excuse me I need to go and rest so that hopefully this cough will be gone in the morning. Long shot but one can dream right?
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Goals
I would like to begin by apologizing to my proud readers who haven't read any new material in two days. Not my fault, I came to my computer for the past three nights with excellent thoughts and ideas only to find out that my host site was down. I'm not going to sit here and bash the sight because that may lead to my banishment. Instead I will act like a parent to my misbehaving adolescent child and say blogger.com I'm not mad, I'm disappointed. I see cyber tears coming...wait for it. Anyway on to more pressing matters.
Summer break is upon me and I have yet to start my manuscript. I had what I thought was a really good idea that now seems kind of lame. I still have it in mind but there are a few other directions I see myself taking, specifically in the YA genre. I have a really great idea for an inspirational YA series following a teenage protagonist as he struggles through high school. I'm thinkin' one year for every book. And no people this will not be Diary or a Whimpy Kid esque; I'm thinking strong content with legit moral lessons and not all happy endings. I'm excited; now I just need to outline it and begin. Hopefully I'll be able to fulfill my goal of completing a manuscript. I have four months which should be plenty of time but with working nearly full time, exercising, and the unit plans that I intend on constructing in preparation for student teaching it's going to be tight. Not much of a break but hey I really want to get this done so I'll find some way to make it happen.
I've been really thankful lately because a lot of things have been going my way lately. I'm making new friends and strengthening bonds with old friends. Lately I've been spending more time with work friends and it's been fun. I enjoy the chill hangouts at my house that always result in good conversations and relaxation. I also got a good idea for a future stand up comedy bit. I need to start putting together that routine as well so I can hit an open mic night sometime soon. I'm also very excited for the possibilities to come in the fall with student teaching. Insanity is going well also. Kicking my butt but I'm sticking with it until the end. I'm in the middle of the fourth week and it's still so tough. Shawn T says it's the toughest workout ever put on DVD. I'll put his claim to the test once I do P90X but I don't doubt Shawn T.
It was funny, the other day I was explaining my jubilation about life to my mom and she was telling me not to brag and to be humble. I didn't really think I was bragging, more just reflecting and being thankful for all that had come my way lately. Then my mom continued to tell me that things aren't absolute and that just because it seems like things are going great nothing's guaranteed. Although my mom has a point it got me thinking why things have been going so well for me. I thought about student teaching, working out, and other aspects of my life. One of the biggest changes in me has been my goal setting and following through on such goals. Take Insanity for instance; I wanted to get a six pack and reach a fitness level that I had never before reached. With regards to student teaching I've been working really hard throughout grad school and I've had the goal of getting a job at a great school from the beginning. The one common element to all of my success has been making goals and following through on them. This blog is another example of me following through on a goal. I started out the new year saying I wanted to write something every day. Sure I haven't posted every day but the only reason I missed posts was because I didn't really have anything to say; nothing wrong with that.
I guess what I'm trying to say is it's important to have goals and attempt to achieve them. I read an article not too long ago about George St. Pierre, one of the best mixed martial arts fighters in the world. He said that he would rather set a goal to high and not achieve it then set a goal to low and achieve it. I really like his mentality because it forces a person to push themselves to limits that they never thought possible. For so long I thought that I wanted to blog but I never got on top of it and for so long I thought that I wanted to lose weight and be in great shape. At that time I never thought I'd be living my life as I do currently but hey if the drive and desire are there you can fulfill you goals. I must confess (and Sidney will be mad at me for psuedo-apologizing) that I had more interesting things to say but this post was started and then continued after a long phone call so I slightly lost my focus. Anyway, welcome weekend, or should I say work-weekend. Hopefully I don't lose my mind between tomorrow and Sunday.
Summer break is upon me and I have yet to start my manuscript. I had what I thought was a really good idea that now seems kind of lame. I still have it in mind but there are a few other directions I see myself taking, specifically in the YA genre. I have a really great idea for an inspirational YA series following a teenage protagonist as he struggles through high school. I'm thinkin' one year for every book. And no people this will not be Diary or a Whimpy Kid esque; I'm thinking strong content with legit moral lessons and not all happy endings. I'm excited; now I just need to outline it and begin. Hopefully I'll be able to fulfill my goal of completing a manuscript. I have four months which should be plenty of time but with working nearly full time, exercising, and the unit plans that I intend on constructing in preparation for student teaching it's going to be tight. Not much of a break but hey I really want to get this done so I'll find some way to make it happen.
I've been really thankful lately because a lot of things have been going my way lately. I'm making new friends and strengthening bonds with old friends. Lately I've been spending more time with work friends and it's been fun. I enjoy the chill hangouts at my house that always result in good conversations and relaxation. I also got a good idea for a future stand up comedy bit. I need to start putting together that routine as well so I can hit an open mic night sometime soon. I'm also very excited for the possibilities to come in the fall with student teaching. Insanity is going well also. Kicking my butt but I'm sticking with it until the end. I'm in the middle of the fourth week and it's still so tough. Shawn T says it's the toughest workout ever put on DVD. I'll put his claim to the test once I do P90X but I don't doubt Shawn T.
It was funny, the other day I was explaining my jubilation about life to my mom and she was telling me not to brag and to be humble. I didn't really think I was bragging, more just reflecting and being thankful for all that had come my way lately. Then my mom continued to tell me that things aren't absolute and that just because it seems like things are going great nothing's guaranteed. Although my mom has a point it got me thinking why things have been going so well for me. I thought about student teaching, working out, and other aspects of my life. One of the biggest changes in me has been my goal setting and following through on such goals. Take Insanity for instance; I wanted to get a six pack and reach a fitness level that I had never before reached. With regards to student teaching I've been working really hard throughout grad school and I've had the goal of getting a job at a great school from the beginning. The one common element to all of my success has been making goals and following through on them. This blog is another example of me following through on a goal. I started out the new year saying I wanted to write something every day. Sure I haven't posted every day but the only reason I missed posts was because I didn't really have anything to say; nothing wrong with that.
I guess what I'm trying to say is it's important to have goals and attempt to achieve them. I read an article not too long ago about George St. Pierre, one of the best mixed martial arts fighters in the world. He said that he would rather set a goal to high and not achieve it then set a goal to low and achieve it. I really like his mentality because it forces a person to push themselves to limits that they never thought possible. For so long I thought that I wanted to blog but I never got on top of it and for so long I thought that I wanted to lose weight and be in great shape. At that time I never thought I'd be living my life as I do currently but hey if the drive and desire are there you can fulfill you goals. I must confess (and Sidney will be mad at me for psuedo-apologizing) that I had more interesting things to say but this post was started and then continued after a long phone call so I slightly lost my focus. Anyway, welcome weekend, or should I say work-weekend. Hopefully I don't lose my mind between tomorrow and Sunday.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Today in a Nutshell
Early riser. Short drive. Beautiful School.
Full day. Helped students. So Excited.
Gorgeous day. Haverford College. Frisbee Session.
Saw Thor. Good action. Met Expectations.
Interview tomorrow. Good luck. Good Night.
Full day. Helped students. So Excited.
Gorgeous day. Haverford College. Frisbee Session.
Saw Thor. Good action. Met Expectations.
Interview tomorrow. Good luck. Good Night.
Monday, May 9, 2011
I Shouldn't be Awake Right Now
Tomorrow I'm going to the high school where I'll be student teaching for the first time so that I can meet my cooperating teacher and familiarize myself with the school. This is not required of course but I've decided to go anyway as a showing of my commitment to the school and my future student teaching experience (slight brown-nosing but whatever, the job market's tough out there and I'm going to do whatever I have to in order to get ahead of the pack). I'm excited for the experience but not for having to wake up super early tomorrow. Oh well, it's going to be Monday through Friday soon enough so I may as well get used to early nights and early mornings now.
I'm getting more into Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson as I continue to read it. Sure the whole book is about a very long drug binge but it's getting to be quite entertaining as I read on. I'm reading Thompson on a recommendation from an old friend. I'm hoping to be finished the book by tomorrow so Wednesday or Thursday I can begin a new book. My plan is to fly through books this summer so hopefully I'll stick to it and stay productive. Lots of reading and writing; can you tell I'm going to be an English teacher/writer (well I kind of already am a writer I'm just not published yet). I've got plenty more on my list but if anyone's got any suggestions I'd be happy to hear them.
Gosh I'm hungry; I really wish there were no consequences for eating late at night. I may just go and eat something healthy like some veggies or some nuts. Back to working out tomorrow, today was my off day. I really hope I start to see more results soon; I'm going into my fourth week. Crazy to think that in a week I will have done this program for a month already. I'm loving my commitment I just hope that my results will reflect all of the effort I've put in with the dieting and exercise. Wouldn't it be great if society didn't demand that we look great. Like instead of our looks everyone would walk around with a score above their heads, which would be a combination of all of their positive aspects. The score could be on a scale of one to one hundred and would factor in things like intelligence, kindness, selfishness/selflessness, health, bad habits, etc. Basically everything about a person so instead of just going by someone's looks you'd actually have some idea what's beneath the outer layer. Oh well just a thought aka me being bitter about my singleness once again. Not to worry I see good things coming in my future. Ok off to be because of my early morning wake up.
It's Late. I'm hungry. Don't Eat.
School tomorrow. Semester's over. Feels Wrong.
First day. Very important. Proper Behavior.
Movie tomorrow. Very Excited. Been awhile.
I'm getting more into Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson as I continue to read it. Sure the whole book is about a very long drug binge but it's getting to be quite entertaining as I read on. I'm reading Thompson on a recommendation from an old friend. I'm hoping to be finished the book by tomorrow so Wednesday or Thursday I can begin a new book. My plan is to fly through books this summer so hopefully I'll stick to it and stay productive. Lots of reading and writing; can you tell I'm going to be an English teacher/writer (well I kind of already am a writer I'm just not published yet). I've got plenty more on my list but if anyone's got any suggestions I'd be happy to hear them.
Gosh I'm hungry; I really wish there were no consequences for eating late at night. I may just go and eat something healthy like some veggies or some nuts. Back to working out tomorrow, today was my off day. I really hope I start to see more results soon; I'm going into my fourth week. Crazy to think that in a week I will have done this program for a month already. I'm loving my commitment I just hope that my results will reflect all of the effort I've put in with the dieting and exercise. Wouldn't it be great if society didn't demand that we look great. Like instead of our looks everyone would walk around with a score above their heads, which would be a combination of all of their positive aspects. The score could be on a scale of one to one hundred and would factor in things like intelligence, kindness, selfishness/selflessness, health, bad habits, etc. Basically everything about a person so instead of just going by someone's looks you'd actually have some idea what's beneath the outer layer. Oh well just a thought aka me being bitter about my singleness once again. Not to worry I see good things coming in my future. Ok off to be because of my early morning wake up.
It's Late. I'm hungry. Don't Eat.
School tomorrow. Semester's over. Feels Wrong.
First day. Very important. Proper Behavior.
Movie tomorrow. Very Excited. Been awhile.
Insanity Cures All
I now feel one hundred times better than I did prior to doing my Insanity session tonight. I was feeling very angry and frustrated with the events of today and I was thinking all day that I hope today's Insanity session would feature the circuit of punches. I asked and I received just that with the plyometric cardio circuit. The circuit ends with a series of jabs, uppercuts, and open handed jabs. I went as hard as I could on those punches and I think it's safe to say I got all of that aggression out. Tomorrow I will be hanging my heavy bag in the garage; a task that I have been putting off for months/years now. I want it hung up so that on a day like today, if I don't have Insanity I can just go outside and wail on the thing until I have no more energy left to be angry. See that was the beauty of today's workout; I was mad so I went harder and faster to the extent that once I was finished I had no more energy to be angry. As Andy Reid would say, "It's a beautiful thing."
So on a request from one of my most consistent readers I'll continue with this societal critique thing I got going on. See the whole U.S involvement in the Middle East pisses me off. Why did we go to the Middle East in the first place. Well Afghanistan because that was the country that housed Al Qaida, and the Taliban government apparently supported the terrorist activities and training camps of the terrorist group. Ok, I can understand that one. Then you get to Iraq; the US went there for weapons of mass destruction. Did they find such weapons? No they did not. So you would think the rational thing to do would be to leave, but wait a second, now we have human rights violations under vicious dictatorships. So what is the United States to do? Remove the evil regimes and replace them with western supporting democracies. Yay, win win for everyone, especially the US who will likely seize control of the oil fields in order to provide a steady flow of crude to the US. But wait that can't be true, I mean the US is there to protect the citizens of these countries and give them democracy so that their human rights won't be violated right? Wasn't that the point of taking down these viscous and evil regimes?
Well how about all of those other countries where human rights violations are occurring. Think about the genocides in Africa, Chechnya, and Myanmar. Where are the US troops in Darfur and the Ivory Coast protecting those people from rape, torture, and slaughter? Could it be that the lack of oil in such countries has prevented US intervention there. I mean come on if you're going to be the world's police force you can't pick and choose, you must go wherever there are human rights violations. It just seems like the US decides to intervene in countries that happen to be rich with oil fields.
Ok, I get it, we're the largest consumers in the world and we need crude oil to refine into other fuels in order to sustain our way of life. Meanwhile since 9/11/2001 gas prices have skyrocketed and are projected to reach an all time high this summer. And what will happen when oil runs out? Because I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news to everyone out there but oil is NOT a renewable energy source meaning once it's gone we can't just make more. Maybe it would be smarter to invest in renewable energy sources or alternative fuels such as biodeisel. Renewable energy sources would be things like solar, hydro, wind, and nuclear power. Yeah I know when people hear nuclear they think meltdown but maybe if we put more money into that research as opposed to spending trillions on two to three fronts in the middle east to protect oil fields would be money better spent.
Here's what I propose to the US to exit this horrid decade of war and recession. Pull out of the Middle East completely and begin to focus on renewable, domestic energy sources. Research and production of such energy sources would likely increase the number of jobs and would provide openings for all of those unemployed individuals. This exit strategy would also save the united states trillions with the military budget as well as thousands of lives of soldiers that may fall in future campaigns in the Middle East. Instead of always being on the offensive how about being on the defensive for a change. Why are we so concerned with an enemy and an ideal that is thousands of miles away? How about we focus on our domestic issues like those nut jobs who picket dead soldiers funerals and hate America. This country has plenty of problems and our presence in the Middle East and our reliance on foreign oil is only perpetuating those problems. We need to start fixing our issues from within. Money needs to be allocated to education, closing the poverty gap, health care, and lifting us out of this recession. It's time for the US to play some defense and begin rebuilding from within. I don't know why we're so concerned with the rest of the world's issues and so complacent towards our own. We've been messed up for a while; it's time to bounce out of it.
So on a request from one of my most consistent readers I'll continue with this societal critique thing I got going on. See the whole U.S involvement in the Middle East pisses me off. Why did we go to the Middle East in the first place. Well Afghanistan because that was the country that housed Al Qaida, and the Taliban government apparently supported the terrorist activities and training camps of the terrorist group. Ok, I can understand that one. Then you get to Iraq; the US went there for weapons of mass destruction. Did they find such weapons? No they did not. So you would think the rational thing to do would be to leave, but wait a second, now we have human rights violations under vicious dictatorships. So what is the United States to do? Remove the evil regimes and replace them with western supporting democracies. Yay, win win for everyone, especially the US who will likely seize control of the oil fields in order to provide a steady flow of crude to the US. But wait that can't be true, I mean the US is there to protect the citizens of these countries and give them democracy so that their human rights won't be violated right? Wasn't that the point of taking down these viscous and evil regimes?
Well how about all of those other countries where human rights violations are occurring. Think about the genocides in Africa, Chechnya, and Myanmar. Where are the US troops in Darfur and the Ivory Coast protecting those people from rape, torture, and slaughter? Could it be that the lack of oil in such countries has prevented US intervention there. I mean come on if you're going to be the world's police force you can't pick and choose, you must go wherever there are human rights violations. It just seems like the US decides to intervene in countries that happen to be rich with oil fields.
Ok, I get it, we're the largest consumers in the world and we need crude oil to refine into other fuels in order to sustain our way of life. Meanwhile since 9/11/2001 gas prices have skyrocketed and are projected to reach an all time high this summer. And what will happen when oil runs out? Because I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news to everyone out there but oil is NOT a renewable energy source meaning once it's gone we can't just make more. Maybe it would be smarter to invest in renewable energy sources or alternative fuels such as biodeisel. Renewable energy sources would be things like solar, hydro, wind, and nuclear power. Yeah I know when people hear nuclear they think meltdown but maybe if we put more money into that research as opposed to spending trillions on two to three fronts in the middle east to protect oil fields would be money better spent.
Here's what I propose to the US to exit this horrid decade of war and recession. Pull out of the Middle East completely and begin to focus on renewable, domestic energy sources. Research and production of such energy sources would likely increase the number of jobs and would provide openings for all of those unemployed individuals. This exit strategy would also save the united states trillions with the military budget as well as thousands of lives of soldiers that may fall in future campaigns in the Middle East. Instead of always being on the offensive how about being on the defensive for a change. Why are we so concerned with an enemy and an ideal that is thousands of miles away? How about we focus on our domestic issues like those nut jobs who picket dead soldiers funerals and hate America. This country has plenty of problems and our presence in the Middle East and our reliance on foreign oil is only perpetuating those problems. We need to start fixing our issues from within. Money needs to be allocated to education, closing the poverty gap, health care, and lifting us out of this recession. It's time for the US to play some defense and begin rebuilding from within. I don't know why we're so concerned with the rest of the world's issues and so complacent towards our own. We've been messed up for a while; it's time to bounce out of it.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Me Bitching for Two Paragraphs (skip if you like) Followed by Flash Fiction
I've been neglecting my writing lately mainly because I have nothing super compelling to write about. Sure I'm done school now and that should be a giant burden off my shoulders but it's not feeling any lighter over here. Everything honestly feels the same; maybe it's because school really wasn't all that difficult this semester. Maybe it's because the burden of my finances is more significant than my academic workload. It's like I want to save money but the world is against me. Exhibit A: Speeding ticket $162.50. I mean seriously who was I hurting my driving 76 in a 55 on an empty high way. Exhibit B: Rising gas prices. Seriously Obama how have you made anything in this country any better? We're still in a recession, unemployment is still high, every job market sucks, and we are now militarily involved in another Middle Eastern country (Libya for those of you who didn't know). Sounds like you picked up exactly where Georgey left off: Fucking This Country Royally. It'll be sad if the Bin Laden killing saves Obama's presidency. Yes it was a necessary death and I'm glad the world is rid of him but was it worth the thousands of American lives and trillions of American dollars that were spent in the process? I'm not so sure. I'd rather have all those soldiers back, all that money allocated to fight poverty, improve health care, and improve education. Let the terrorists sit in their huts cursing every American. Beef up border security and don't let any of them into the country, they can't hurt us from 10,000 miles away.
I don't usually talk about politics or use such profane language but I guess you can say I'm in a mood today. Maybe it's because I've been working so much and not saving anything (trying unsuccessfully). Or that every day I'm working it's the most beautiful day of the year and every customer and fellow employee has to remind me of that fact. Or maybe it's because I got a notice from penndot yesterday that I not only had to pay my fine but I got 4 points on my license (at 6 you get your license revoked). I'm excited to go take out all of my anger and frustration during my Insanity session within the next hour. Not a good day for the Yin. Time to let it all go. This may sounds cliche but I actually feel better now that I got that out. Maybe I'll put a disclaimer in the title that if people don't want to hear me bitching or some of my current political views then they should skip past the first two paragraphs. I may just do that. I have a huge gash on my arm from this stupid piece of 'art' that is a candle holder shaped like the tree of life. This supposed artwork is made out of metal-pretty sharp metal at that- and as I walked by while I was setting the table for Mother's Day dinner I sliced my arm. People are probably gonna look at me and think I'm a cutter; sorry but self-mutilation isn't for me. That' so my luck, I get home with dinner and I try to do the nice thing and set the table...what do I get in return? A nice scar to add to the collection. It's like this one time I did my buddy Shawn a huge favor and went to let out these dogs at a house that he was dogsitting at. What happened? I opened the porch door and the dog runs outside and pees on my foot. Just one example of the numerous times when shitty things happen to me while I'm attempting to do something nice for someone else. Oh well I guess that's the price you pay for being a nice guy; you can literally and figuratively get pissed and shit on haha. At least I was able to make my mom and sister laugh to the point of tears tonight with my impression of what Israeli news sounds like. Gotta find the positive aspects even in shitty days. I haven't done flash fiction in a while, bringin' it back.
Working more. More money. No Savings.
Speeding ticket. Paid fine. Surprise!!!!!!! Points.
Nice day. Stuck inside. Not Happy.
Last day. Third week. Love Insanity.
Reading H. Thompson. Many Drugs. Like it?
Coming week. Anything exciting? We'll see...
I don't usually talk about politics or use such profane language but I guess you can say I'm in a mood today. Maybe it's because I've been working so much and not saving anything (trying unsuccessfully). Or that every day I'm working it's the most beautiful day of the year and every customer and fellow employee has to remind me of that fact. Or maybe it's because I got a notice from penndot yesterday that I not only had to pay my fine but I got 4 points on my license (at 6 you get your license revoked). I'm excited to go take out all of my anger and frustration during my Insanity session within the next hour. Not a good day for the Yin. Time to let it all go. This may sounds cliche but I actually feel better now that I got that out. Maybe I'll put a disclaimer in the title that if people don't want to hear me bitching or some of my current political views then they should skip past the first two paragraphs. I may just do that. I have a huge gash on my arm from this stupid piece of 'art' that is a candle holder shaped like the tree of life. This supposed artwork is made out of metal-pretty sharp metal at that- and as I walked by while I was setting the table for Mother's Day dinner I sliced my arm. People are probably gonna look at me and think I'm a cutter; sorry but self-mutilation isn't for me. That' so my luck, I get home with dinner and I try to do the nice thing and set the table...what do I get in return? A nice scar to add to the collection. It's like this one time I did my buddy Shawn a huge favor and went to let out these dogs at a house that he was dogsitting at. What happened? I opened the porch door and the dog runs outside and pees on my foot. Just one example of the numerous times when shitty things happen to me while I'm attempting to do something nice for someone else. Oh well I guess that's the price you pay for being a nice guy; you can literally and figuratively get pissed and shit on haha. At least I was able to make my mom and sister laugh to the point of tears tonight with my impression of what Israeli news sounds like. Gotta find the positive aspects even in shitty days. I haven't done flash fiction in a while, bringin' it back.
Working more. More money. No Savings.
Speeding ticket. Paid fine. Surprise!!!!!!! Points.
Nice day. Stuck inside. Not Happy.
Last day. Third week. Love Insanity.
Reading H. Thompson. Many Drugs. Like it?
Coming week. Anything exciting? We'll see...
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Second Wind
Totally should have posted yesterday but I forgot; oh well. Now as I'm happily writing at a time that I'd normally be sleeping. I wasn't going to go out tonight but then I decided to man up and do it. My 8 1/2 hour shift at Borders really drained me and I was thinking about just coming home and passing out. And then I thought about it logically: When would I actually fall asleep? 1, maybe 2 am. And by that point I might as well have just gone out and enjoyed myself. It was such a challenge though; going out. I had no energy at work and it was a struggle just to keep my eyes open. It's interesting how my body works though because I notice if I power through a bout of tiredness (exhaustion is a more proper word but I like tiredness) eventually I get a second win to kick in and I'll be fine. As usual that happened tonight and by the time we made it out to manayunk I was wide awake.
Tonight was a really fun time because I introduced two different groups of friends and everybody got along well. It's always nice when you can unite people into one big group and everything goes smoothly. Weird night in Manayunk though; not a single bar was packed. Friday night, week after finals, I thought the place would be hoppin'. Especially because the weather's so nice now but hey I guess tonight was just an anomaly. Maybe lots of people stayed home to watch the Flyers-sorry hockey fans, there's always next year.
I actually had a really productive day from the start. Woke up early and couldn't fall back asleep so I did some organizing, worked out, ran errands, and then went to work. Wow this was a long day. I'm four hours away from being awake for 24 hours. Good stuff though, I love that even with school being over I'm staying productive. I think that's gonna be one of my goals for the rest of my life: everyday do at least one productive thing. Anyway I think my bed is calling my name. More tomorrow my friends.
Tonight was a really fun time because I introduced two different groups of friends and everybody got along well. It's always nice when you can unite people into one big group and everything goes smoothly. Weird night in Manayunk though; not a single bar was packed. Friday night, week after finals, I thought the place would be hoppin'. Especially because the weather's so nice now but hey I guess tonight was just an anomaly. Maybe lots of people stayed home to watch the Flyers-sorry hockey fans, there's always next year.
I actually had a really productive day from the start. Woke up early and couldn't fall back asleep so I did some organizing, worked out, ran errands, and then went to work. Wow this was a long day. I'm four hours away from being awake for 24 hours. Good stuff though, I love that even with school being over I'm staying productive. I think that's gonna be one of my goals for the rest of my life: everyday do at least one productive thing. Anyway I think my bed is calling my name. More tomorrow my friends.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Done
So relieved that I'm finished with my final project for the semester. I'm so relieved that I won't be up until very late tonight doing this thing because it's finished. I'm especially happy because I got Red on Netflix and I've been quite eager to watch it lately. Such a relief, I'm feeling amazing right now. Tomorrow night I will celebrate, I'm not a hundred percent sure how but I will celebrate in some way.
So tonight Sam and I finally took Kyle out for his congratulatory promotion dinner. Kyle got a long-overdue promotion and I vowed to take him out to celebrate it. I wanted to incorporate Sam naturally because she's his girlfriend and because I knew she was equally proud of him for his achievement as I was. We went to Outback Steakhouse in Exton and the food was delicious. I've never been to Outback and come to think of it I haven't been to too many steakhouses in my day either. Funny because I'm essentially a carnivore but hey I'm glad I finally made an appearance. Food was delicious I got Teriyaki Beef Medallions cooked over a wood fire. I was very pleased with my meal, and I got a Yard's Stout which was also excellent.
During dinner Kyle and I had a funny conversation looking forward to his future bachelor party (that I will surely be planning). It's gotta be Vegas and so of course when you think of a bachelor party in Vegas you've got to think Hangover. So one tendency that my friends and I have had has been assigning each other roles from popular movies and TV shows. For instance when the American Pie movies came out my buddies and I all assigned each other roles. I was Jim (haha or course), Gnoffo was Oz (Lax player go figure), Paul was Stifler, Kyle was the dude who was dating Tara Reid, Mark's his name I think (because Kyle was the only one with a girlfriend), and Mahoney was Jim's dad. Then entourage came out and we decided that Gnoffo would be Vince, I'd be E because I'd be the only one who would be able to actually manage him. Paul could be drama and Kyle would be turtle because Kyle loves to drive and he used to always wear sports jerseys like the old turtle. Now both turtle and Kyle are more refined. But anyway you get the picture.
So tonight we were going through who would be who from the Hangover. I was voted to be Phil (Bradley Cooper) because I'm the best dresser of the group (not saying much) and I'd be putting everything together. Plus he's a teacher and I'm going to be a teacher. Kyle would be Doug because it would be his bachelor party. Then Shawn would be Stu because he's going to be a PA (Physician Assistant). Close enough to a doctor even though Stu's only a Dentist. And then of course Allan. I would have to bestow the role of Allan onto Lovick. Lovick loves Yaeger, like Allen, and Lovick would also show up wearing some goofy T-shirt (like that ageless tye-dye shirt of his) like Allan's outfit. Now I just want Kyle to get engaged so we can all go to Vegas, get roofied, and not know what happened the night before. Shawn will fund the operation cuz he'll be the medical persona and he'll probably leave with a missing tooth and a tattoo. Somehow through all of the chaos I'll manage to keep everything under control and we'll make it back just before the vows are going to be exchanged. Wow I can't wait for that trip, it needs to happen soon. I'm itching for it, and I've never been to Vegas.
So tonight Sam and I finally took Kyle out for his congratulatory promotion dinner. Kyle got a long-overdue promotion and I vowed to take him out to celebrate it. I wanted to incorporate Sam naturally because she's his girlfriend and because I knew she was equally proud of him for his achievement as I was. We went to Outback Steakhouse in Exton and the food was delicious. I've never been to Outback and come to think of it I haven't been to too many steakhouses in my day either. Funny because I'm essentially a carnivore but hey I'm glad I finally made an appearance. Food was delicious I got Teriyaki Beef Medallions cooked over a wood fire. I was very pleased with my meal, and I got a Yard's Stout which was also excellent.
During dinner Kyle and I had a funny conversation looking forward to his future bachelor party (that I will surely be planning). It's gotta be Vegas and so of course when you think of a bachelor party in Vegas you've got to think Hangover. So one tendency that my friends and I have had has been assigning each other roles from popular movies and TV shows. For instance when the American Pie movies came out my buddies and I all assigned each other roles. I was Jim (haha or course), Gnoffo was Oz (Lax player go figure), Paul was Stifler, Kyle was the dude who was dating Tara Reid, Mark's his name I think (because Kyle was the only one with a girlfriend), and Mahoney was Jim's dad. Then entourage came out and we decided that Gnoffo would be Vince, I'd be E because I'd be the only one who would be able to actually manage him. Paul could be drama and Kyle would be turtle because Kyle loves to drive and he used to always wear sports jerseys like the old turtle. Now both turtle and Kyle are more refined. But anyway you get the picture.
So tonight we were going through who would be who from the Hangover. I was voted to be Phil (Bradley Cooper) because I'm the best dresser of the group (not saying much) and I'd be putting everything together. Plus he's a teacher and I'm going to be a teacher. Kyle would be Doug because it would be his bachelor party. Then Shawn would be Stu because he's going to be a PA (Physician Assistant). Close enough to a doctor even though Stu's only a Dentist. And then of course Allan. I would have to bestow the role of Allan onto Lovick. Lovick loves Yaeger, like Allen, and Lovick would also show up wearing some goofy T-shirt (like that ageless tye-dye shirt of his) like Allan's outfit. Now I just want Kyle to get engaged so we can all go to Vegas, get roofied, and not know what happened the night before. Shawn will fund the operation cuz he'll be the medical persona and he'll probably leave with a missing tooth and a tattoo. Somehow through all of the chaos I'll manage to keep everything under control and we'll make it back just before the vows are going to be exchanged. Wow I can't wait for that trip, it needs to happen soon. I'm itching for it, and I've never been to Vegas.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Read God Hates Us All by Hank Moody
Right now I should be working on mu multi-genre guide for writing but like a good student I'm procrastinating. I'm feeling good about it though, plus I have tonight after class and all day tomorrow to finish it. It will be finished don't you worry. It may suck but it'll be finished. So today after I finished putting my unit plan together (such a relief) I did Insanity. Today was my second Fit Test (you do a fit test every two weeks to gauge your progress) and on all but one of the categories I improved. And in the one category that I didn't improve I realized that the first time I was doing the move incorrectly so I didn't even count it. Anyway I was happy to see that I improved in all of the categories in which I actually performed the exercises correctly. It's going to get so much harder once I get into the second month; I'm a little scared. Either way I'm really happy that I've stuck to it for two weeks now, six days a week. Especially through finals week. I'll just have to keep going with it until I get those results that I've been yearning for.
After Insanity and the obligatory shower that follows I sat down for lunch. I then thought about working on my project but instead the only thing on my mind was God Hates us All. All I wanted to do was read the book and it was so nice out so I decided what the hell. I thought maybe I'll just knock out 20-30 pages to appease my angst and who know that I would end up finishing it. And let me tell you Hank Moody's work of genius has quickly vaulted it's way up on the list of my favorite books ever. I highly recommend it for a quick, fun, and entertaining read. I already have on request from a friend to borrow the book. After she returns it (which she will even though she has a habit of stealing books; not this one) anyone else should feel free to borrow it.
It's crazy to think how close I am to being done; two more days. So excited for the feeling that will accompany 12:30 pm on Thursday when I leave my last final with a summer ahead of me and no more classes. I don't mind classes but after a while my financial situation couple with the schoolwork and retail obligations can become a bit much. It'll be nice to only have work with no school on top of it. I intend to get a lot done this summer on top of making and saving money. Besides starting and hopefully finishing a manuscript I intend to read a lot; especially the books that I'll be teaching in the fall. No worries, I feel like I'm getting better at speed reading. Hopefully I'll be able to knock out a couple of books each week. That's the plan at least, we'll see how it goes. I think I just need to focus on keeping up the fun quotient in my life this summer. Besides Israel and Florida I don't have any major excursions planned. I see some shore trips in the making. If people want to come I'll welcome that but if not I don't think I'd be opposed to a day on the beach myself. Sure it's an hour and a half drive but honestly I love the beach and I shouldn't be deferred from going by the absence of companionship. A day on the beach with a book in hand sounds like a good time to me. Call me weird but remember I am the guy who has gone to see movies by himself. Anyway, last couple days and then finished with classes, so pumped. Time to grind it out and finish my last project; tonight and tomorrow should be strenuous.
After Insanity and the obligatory shower that follows I sat down for lunch. I then thought about working on my project but instead the only thing on my mind was God Hates us All. All I wanted to do was read the book and it was so nice out so I decided what the hell. I thought maybe I'll just knock out 20-30 pages to appease my angst and who know that I would end up finishing it. And let me tell you Hank Moody's work of genius has quickly vaulted it's way up on the list of my favorite books ever. I highly recommend it for a quick, fun, and entertaining read. I already have on request from a friend to borrow the book. After she returns it (which she will even though she has a habit of stealing books; not this one) anyone else should feel free to borrow it.
It's crazy to think how close I am to being done; two more days. So excited for the feeling that will accompany 12:30 pm on Thursday when I leave my last final with a summer ahead of me and no more classes. I don't mind classes but after a while my financial situation couple with the schoolwork and retail obligations can become a bit much. It'll be nice to only have work with no school on top of it. I intend to get a lot done this summer on top of making and saving money. Besides starting and hopefully finishing a manuscript I intend to read a lot; especially the books that I'll be teaching in the fall. No worries, I feel like I'm getting better at speed reading. Hopefully I'll be able to knock out a couple of books each week. That's the plan at least, we'll see how it goes. I think I just need to focus on keeping up the fun quotient in my life this summer. Besides Israel and Florida I don't have any major excursions planned. I see some shore trips in the making. If people want to come I'll welcome that but if not I don't think I'd be opposed to a day on the beach myself. Sure it's an hour and a half drive but honestly I love the beach and I shouldn't be deferred from going by the absence of companionship. A day on the beach with a book in hand sounds like a good time to me. Call me weird but remember I am the guy who has gone to see movies by himself. Anyway, last couple days and then finished with classes, so pumped. Time to grind it out and finish my last project; tonight and tomorrow should be strenuous.
Monday, May 2, 2011
XSSIVE
hahaha I'm just laughing at my last post. Wow a machine, that's the exact opposite of what I was today. If I didn't down a large red eye (coffee with a shot of espresso) I would be flat on my face right now. Luckily I found my second wind thanks to caffeine and I'm still awake but wow was tonight rough. So happy I don't have to work again until Thursday. I'm very excited though because thanks to my friend Britt and her mom's connection I may have found my second job for summer. It's essentially my dream job too, teaching at a Hebrew School. I mean seriously what more could I ask for. The director is very interested in speaking to me so I'm going to follow up tomorrow; so excited. This could be a great opportunity for me to connect with Jewish community and make some nice money while I'm at it. So Today at work I saw an awesome car and I'm going to attempt to upload a picture. What makes the car awesome isn't the fact that it's a Ferrari but the license plate. Wow I'm really pissed at the poor quality. But the license plate says XSSIVE aka excessive. I just thought it's awesome how the owner of this car knows how necessary a possession his Ferrari is and feels the need to admit it to the world. Kudos super rich guy or girl, we all hate you but mad respect .
I feel like it would be dishonest for me to post without commenting on the death of Osama Bin Laden. Let me first send out my gratitude to those men and possible women involved in the operation. Your bravery and valor brought one of the worst war criminals in the history of the world to justice. It was weird when I first heard the news that Bin Laden had been killed. Everyone was rejoicing; not the usual reaction to someone being killed. I had to stop myself and think is this the correct reaction? I mean I try not to gloat on such things but then I thought some more. I thought about how Bin Laden isn't a person. He surrendered any humanity that he had when he began planning his terror attacks that targeted innocent, unknowing, and unarmed civilians. His cowardice and disregard for human life and suffering put him into a subhuman category. Because of this I don't feel guilty rejoicing in his death. This man represented pure evil and the fact that he know long has the privilege of breathing air on this earth is excellent news. I hope that his death will give those who lost loved ones on 9/11 some feeling of justice and that this move will show all terrorists that they will eventually be caught and tried for their crimes or killed. The events that led up to Bin Laden's death represent that good prevails over evil and that no matter how long it takes terrorists and enemies of the United States will be brought to justice. And now I'm feeling all patriotic, yay. Time for bed/time to do some proofreading and time to finish my teacher notebook.
I feel like it would be dishonest for me to post without commenting on the death of Osama Bin Laden. Let me first send out my gratitude to those men and possible women involved in the operation. Your bravery and valor brought one of the worst war criminals in the history of the world to justice. It was weird when I first heard the news that Bin Laden had been killed. Everyone was rejoicing; not the usual reaction to someone being killed. I had to stop myself and think is this the correct reaction? I mean I try not to gloat on such things but then I thought some more. I thought about how Bin Laden isn't a person. He surrendered any humanity that he had when he began planning his terror attacks that targeted innocent, unknowing, and unarmed civilians. His cowardice and disregard for human life and suffering put him into a subhuman category. Because of this I don't feel guilty rejoicing in his death. This man represented pure evil and the fact that he know long has the privilege of breathing air on this earth is excellent news. I hope that his death will give those who lost loved ones on 9/11 some feeling of justice and that this move will show all terrorists that they will eventually be caught and tried for their crimes or killed. The events that led up to Bin Laden's death represent that good prevails over evil and that no matter how long it takes terrorists and enemies of the United States will be brought to justice. And now I'm feeling all patriotic, yay. Time for bed/time to do some proofreading and time to finish my teacher notebook.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Lately I'm a Machine
Sorry all, nothing to write yesterday. I blame the 8 hours I spent in Starbucks working on my unit plan. That followed by Insanity just drained me of all energy. Yes for those of you following I'm still doing Insanity; just finished my second week of the craziness. Let me tell you, some of the craziest workouts I've ever done. I'm dripping sweat from head to toe daily and it is a killer. Anyone who wants a new challenge or who is looking to take it up a notch I highly recommend the Insanity program.
I'm drawing a blank right now; probably because I've been such a machine. For instance today I woke up at 7 am, worked on my unit plan, went to buy gas for the lawnmower, did Insanity, and then went to work. I worked on my Unit plan during my break and when I got home I drove furniture over to my sister's place after which I finally got a chance to relax a little. Then I folded some laundry and here I am, gracing you all with my presence. Tomorrow will be more of the same, early morning wake up followed by mowing the lawn, more schoolwork and at night Borders. Crazy crazy, can't wait for this week to be over.
Yesterday I started reading God Hates us All by Hank Moody, my inspiration for wanting to become a writer. Who cares if a fictional character motivated me to become a writer, I'm writing aren't I? I wonder how fictional Hank really is though, I mean he did write a book (supposedly). I know this because I'm reading it right now-so hard not to tap into it right now because it's so good, I may have to give in later. No worries I'll do a little more work on the unit plan tonight and then I'll read a few pages of wonderful words before sleepies. That's if I can make it that far, I've been so tired all day. My recent shot of caffeine may keep my eyes open for the next couple of minutes but who knows. There are a few small things I want to accomplish for my unit plan and I want to have it done tomorrow so that Tuesday I can begin focusing all of my energy on my multi-genre guide for reading. I also need to make a teacher notebook but that shouldn't take too long. Oh and tomorrow I need to go make some photocopies either at Staples or at the public Library. I'll have to mark that down.
I recently realized that one of my pairs of jeans is just a tad too tight. I'll be honest, after I lost by first round of weight I got a little obsessed with the fact that I could finally fit into straight leg jeans. This one pair isn't the most flattering and I'm thinking I may need to retire the tight jeans. Last night I was wearing them and I was thinking 'wow these really aren't even comfy'. Plus what type of girl would want a guy who walks around with his junk smushed against his leg? I mean seriously like do those skinny little emo boys who wear jeggings on a daily basis have junk? Cuz if so I don't know where they store it. Some fashion trends make little to no sense. Whatever, you can't take everything that society feeds you and adopt it as your own. Don't be just another brick in the wall (A line I commonly use that I commandeered from Moody who probably took it from Pink Floyd). I wear some things that go against societal standards and I'm cool with that. Be proud of your style, make it your own, and decide what's fashionable for you. If you find something awesome in a store that may be too big consider getting it tailored to fit you. I think clothes are a great way to express yourself by showing off your own personal style. And they're not so permanent like other forms of expression, like tattoos. Sorry friends tats and piercings aren't for me. To each his or her own, but the hole prospect of holes in my body and permanent ink in my skin has lost its appeal. Alright well now that I'm finished with my daily rant I must go and attempt to work on some academic things. As Shakespeare may have said, Fare thee well.
I'm drawing a blank right now; probably because I've been such a machine. For instance today I woke up at 7 am, worked on my unit plan, went to buy gas for the lawnmower, did Insanity, and then went to work. I worked on my Unit plan during my break and when I got home I drove furniture over to my sister's place after which I finally got a chance to relax a little. Then I folded some laundry and here I am, gracing you all with my presence. Tomorrow will be more of the same, early morning wake up followed by mowing the lawn, more schoolwork and at night Borders. Crazy crazy, can't wait for this week to be over.
Yesterday I started reading God Hates us All by Hank Moody, my inspiration for wanting to become a writer. Who cares if a fictional character motivated me to become a writer, I'm writing aren't I? I wonder how fictional Hank really is though, I mean he did write a book (supposedly). I know this because I'm reading it right now-so hard not to tap into it right now because it's so good, I may have to give in later. No worries I'll do a little more work on the unit plan tonight and then I'll read a few pages of wonderful words before sleepies. That's if I can make it that far, I've been so tired all day. My recent shot of caffeine may keep my eyes open for the next couple of minutes but who knows. There are a few small things I want to accomplish for my unit plan and I want to have it done tomorrow so that Tuesday I can begin focusing all of my energy on my multi-genre guide for reading. I also need to make a teacher notebook but that shouldn't take too long. Oh and tomorrow I need to go make some photocopies either at Staples or at the public Library. I'll have to mark that down.
I recently realized that one of my pairs of jeans is just a tad too tight. I'll be honest, after I lost by first round of weight I got a little obsessed with the fact that I could finally fit into straight leg jeans. This one pair isn't the most flattering and I'm thinking I may need to retire the tight jeans. Last night I was wearing them and I was thinking 'wow these really aren't even comfy'. Plus what type of girl would want a guy who walks around with his junk smushed against his leg? I mean seriously like do those skinny little emo boys who wear jeggings on a daily basis have junk? Cuz if so I don't know where they store it. Some fashion trends make little to no sense. Whatever, you can't take everything that society feeds you and adopt it as your own. Don't be just another brick in the wall (A line I commonly use that I commandeered from Moody who probably took it from Pink Floyd). I wear some things that go against societal standards and I'm cool with that. Be proud of your style, make it your own, and decide what's fashionable for you. If you find something awesome in a store that may be too big consider getting it tailored to fit you. I think clothes are a great way to express yourself by showing off your own personal style. And they're not so permanent like other forms of expression, like tattoos. Sorry friends tats and piercings aren't for me. To each his or her own, but the hole prospect of holes in my body and permanent ink in my skin has lost its appeal. Alright well now that I'm finished with my daily rant I must go and attempt to work on some academic things. As Shakespeare may have said, Fare thee well.
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