The Illuminated Works of Hoju

What is wrong with everything

2011-07-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

The lack of existentialism in basically everyone I know is fairly sad.
I don't know if it is the internet. I don't really care. Modernity has created an age of irony that has overtaken us all. It means two things, one everything you do is probably not as good as you or your friends think it is and secondly:

nothing lasts.

We are all fucked.

I just can't take it.

2010-07-27T12:44:00.001-07:00

Facebook is horrible. It really is.

Just a horrible waste of everyone's fucking time.

You fucking jackass.

2010-07-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

There's no way, with hindsight, I would've ever called up Larry, called up Magic and said, 'Hey, look, let's get together and play on one team,' "But that's ... things are different. I can't say that's a bad thing. It's an opportunity these kids have today. In all honesty, I was trying to beat those guys"

You're right you did try to beat those guys. And you didn't. Not in their prime.

So those really weren't the players you were playing against.

It would be more like this. Jordan/Barkley/Malone. But lets not even go that far.

Lets say the top 2 players from the 1984 draft and the 4th best from the draft. In hindsight.

Okay so jordan is the #1 pick. The #2 player is probably hakeem. 4th Best stockton.

Do we really think Chris Bosh is as good as Larry or Magic? Or any of these guys.

No. But Okay.

Scottie Pippen is a great example. Hall of fame player.

First run for Jordan? Horace grant 15 and 10. Not bad.

Toni Kukoc. Not bad right? Rodman gave you what? 14 rebounds a game? Again. Not bad.

So I'm kinda befuddled at Jordan here.

Was he the best player on his team? Yup.

Will Lebron be the best player on his team? Probably so. Maybe Wade. Do either care?
Probably not.

God I hope Kobe wins 7 rings...I really do. Or that Wade wins 9.

Alexi Lalas is a fucking tool.

2010-06-27T16:23:00.001-07:00

Okay. So here is the deal.

After Germany DESTROYS England. Alexi lalas gets on espn with the english guy and jurgen nazi. And they are all asked. Whats wrong with the US Soccer.

THE MOST SUCESSFUL OF THEM ANSWERS:

NAZI: Well in America its the only country where you have to actually pay to play good soccer. And that the goal is to get a scholarship to college. Not in the rest of the world. And that most great soccer players come from lower to moderate households.
Basketball in the US has kids from the inner city who live it. Its their life.
Keep in mind that Nazi has lived in the US for more than 12 years or so.

This is a paraphrase.

BUT.

HE IS ABSOLUTELY RIGHT.

Basically what he said was.

American Soccer Kids are usually spoiled white kids with too much money.
Not that there are not exceptions. Basically they are Alexi Lalas. You could see him actually cringe. The Brit agreed wholeheartedly.

There is a threshold to how great American Soccer can be.
Great athletes don't play baseball anymore. And they definitely don't play soccer. I am not saying that as far as conditioning and practice the US doesn't put in the time. But simply put. That doesn't mean they are naturally gifted to be the best soccer players in this country? Most Division I college football wide receivers would be great soccer players if they had been raised as such.
They are either guards in the NBA or Cornerbacks and Wide Receivers. I would love it if US soccer simply started revolving their schedule around AAU basketball.
Pay the black kids(shorter quick point guards especially) to play soccer. So the flameouts or the kids that can't make it to big time Football or Basketball could go on an MLS squad and make the national team.
Backup plan.

Allen Iverson would have been so good. Probably the best US soccer player of all time if he had played soccer.
Chris Paul? Holy Shit.

But that wasn't the part that pissed me off. What pisses me off about lalas is that he just totally overstates the American's ability and chances.
In talking about Germany and how quickly they attacked against England he said this
"The US is a great attacking team too as well."
What the fuck does that have to do with Germany pounding the shit out of England.
Granted England's defense was awful. But still.
He's just a total homer. And I think the US is good. Not great.
We should have won the group. We did.
We might have had a chance to beat Ghana and we didn't.
And maybe we could have beat Uruguay then and gotten to the third place game.
That would have been great.

Argentina is Great.
Brazil is Great.
Spain is Great.
Portugal is Great.

Germany is pretty damn good too.

I mean is it just me or is the Spain/Portugal and Germany/Argentina matches looking to be incredible. The right half of the draw is just fantastic.
Spain/Portugal probably plays Uruguay and then THAT winner plays Germany OR Argentina. And then that winner probably plays Brazil. At least I hope Brazil makes it to the finals. If that happens the winner on the right side fucking earned it.

Oh and by the way.

2010-06-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

I asked Nancy to marry me.

She said yes. We are working on details. More to come.
I am thrilled. She is too.

At times brilliant, sometimes perfect. But as a whole.

2010-06-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

Lost is a failure.
Like Battlestar.
I will say this.
BSG had more moments of pure inspiration for space opera.
Lost had interest. And a very good 3 seasons.
But it lost steam. No pun intended.
And yes it ended better than BSG.
I am starting to believe that modern American writing has lost the art of arcs. Or they have really lost the art of finishing what they start. Thats it. We are a nation of half-assers. We just want to get it going. We don't really want the commitment, we don't really want to finish it. But we will if it makes us money right? We are the LeBron James of the world.
So much talent. So much hype. So many moments of perfection.
Never the urge for greatness. Because really, its just too fucking hard. And I can get laid every night for what I've done so far.
Look at me. I have a single in a car commercial.
And if it really was their arc at the end of Lost. My question is why?
Was this worth six seasons really?
Was it worth watching? Probably.
Season 5 was a joke. Season 6 intriguing but a let down.
Season 3-4 the rails come off. You start to wonder if they really know what they are doing.

And I have come to the conclusion. That yeah maybe they did. But not about most of it.
It was all
ATMOSPHERE.
Which is interesting. It really is.
But what are you doing with it?
What purpose does it solve?
The answer is that sometimes not much.

I didn't hate it. It didn't make me depressed. I had given up on Lost a long time ago. Is it worth watching the rest simply because you started Seasons 1-3.
I don't think so. I think I wasted my time. I think you should treat is like Deadwood. 3 seasons of perfection. Never finished.

Breaking Bad is great.
Robin Hood gets a B.

Okay Okay Okay

2010-05-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

So my theories on everything.

First Clash of the Titans remake is stupid. Why in the fuck does medusa need an bow an arrow?

Dumb.

College Basketball is horrible. Horrible. Just dumb. Watch the NBA. Big boy basketball.
MLS sucks. Watch Euro League. Again. Big boy football.

I am done watching college basketball of any sort. I'm also done watching the NBA regular season(too long). MLB games(WAY TOO LONG). I will go to them. But I will not watch them on tv.

Approved Sports events you should watch on television.

NFL PLAYOFFS. Super Bowl.
IOWA GAMES.
IOWA BOWL GAMES
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL GAME
NBA Second RD if good matchups.
NBA CONFERENCE FINALS.
NBA FINALS.
WORLD SERIES.
WORLD CUP.

Reason to go see inception. 1.) Will Christopher Nolan cast Joseph-Gordon Levitt as the Joker?
2.) Maybe its good.

Saw the tanks. They still rock. Perhaps they should get out of the midwest? Nothing good will come out of Iowa City. I think. Perhaps for more than just bands. The flaw of college towns. Another post. Another time.

I'm sorry Grant. I thought the Celtics would put up much more of a fight. Maybe mother's day will win out.

Sent my mom some flowers.

I work at a new place. More hours. More money. Better quality of life.

Lost is almost over. So far so good. Something I did not say during Galactica.

Nancy and I are doing well. Announcements soon. Yes those announcements. But we will see.

I plan on writing on this less. Due to job and other things. But I will try to put anything pertinent up.

But my ramblings about politics and movies will probably subside. Because I'm watching much less movies and less politics.

We adopted a dog. Her name is lilly. She is 12-13. She is blind. Incontinent and in renal failure. She is a funny dog. Nancy says 1 year max. So we are going to make it a fun year for her. She likes to play and cuddle. And likes her food. Nancy fixed the incontinence. And hopefully the elevated blood pressure soon.

My health is very good. I am gaining some weight. I feel fat. But I am probably a normal weight for my height.

I know nothing about magic.

I refuse to go to the Nightmare on Elm Street reboot.
REFUSE.

My days don't seem long enough.

But it is nice out. So I am going to go take a walk.
And call nicole. I need to do that.

ALL BIG 12 ALL THE TIME

2010-03-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Final Four

Kansas/Kansas State
Texas/Baylor

Kansas/Baylor in the final.

Kansas wins.

Matt fuck off.

EVAN BAYH CAN FUCKING SUCK ME

2010-02-15T11:13:00.000-08:00

Seriously. He's been a fucking cock from day one.
His haircut should say it all.

Okay. So I now live in Olympia. I lost my phone. So I think I have everyone's phone number. My mail is forwarded. We have internet. cable.
Everything is basically settled.
Nancy's first day is today. I'm watching the dog.

The place?

Oh the place is great. 1700sq ft of suburbia. Fenced back yard. Right by the Olympia Woodland Trail. And the highway. But no noise except in one room. But it is actually kind of peaceful in a way. Never thought I would say that about a highway.

Big Love is so great.

Nancy and I went on a vacation to Newport, Or. we stayed oceanfront, the beach was 30 seconds away. It was great. It was.

The superbowl.

I really wanted to bet on the Saints. I didn't and I regret it.

The NCAA.

I don't know anything.

The Book of Eli: DUHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

So mad. About that movie.

Is there anything funnier than Liam Neeson in shining armor saying "release the kraken"

I am totally going to Clash of the Titans.

I have only seen Avatar. So I can't make any Oscar Predictions.

Kathleen has a new blog.
She should open up the old blog.
I need her phone# too.

Microsoft Phone.

Finally.

Valentine's Day was good.

I got a bottle of 18 year old bottle of single malt. Too expensive. But Nancy is a doctor, so I will let it slide.

That is all. I think.

I really think anyone who is planning to cast Leonardo Dicaprio in a movie needs to reconsider and cast....

2010-01-21T16:39:00.000-08:00

Joseph-Gordon Levitt. He's good.
Really good.
And I think he could pull off the Joker in Batman 3. He not only kinda looks like Heath, I think he has more range. But I think you need to take the Joker in a different way with a Paul Bettany or Jude Law or Colin Farrel. But thats just me.

500 days of Summer is the movie you should have made but didn't.
It is also the film you should watch but maybe haven't.

Simple. Clean. True.

Avatar.

What to say.

I want to see it in 2D.

First of all. Visually its ungodly wonderful. The plants, the world, the navi or whatever the fuck they are.
The casting was solid.

I have a few issues and they are minor.

One: James Cameron movies need the following actors.
1.) Arnold no arnold? Okay.
2.) Michael Biehn
3.) Bill Paxton
4.) Lance Henriksenn

2 and 3 are more crucial. Why not put bill paxton in the giovanni role?
Michael Biehn as the marine leader?

The plot line was pretty amateur hour. The concept was incredible. I mean this is high sci-fi. But it devolved into a native american action hour.
Was it awesome? Hell yes. Did I notice the length? No. Do I want to see it again?
I'm not so sure. It was one of those times where you realize that it was maybe too perfect an experience. Something that you just really really liked and if you go back again, its probably not going to do it for you.

unobtanium? DUMB NAME.

There were some ideas I found really intriguing, one what if he didn't go into a navi body at the end. What if he simply mated with whats her face as a human?
Again. Fascinating. But not hero journey stuff.
This is a Space Opera movie. And you know what. It is exceptionally well done.
the lesson is this. I
NEVER DOUBT JAMES CAMERON. Spielberg and Lucas must have loved this film.
And two. We shouldn't need 50 or 60 year old men to challenge our imaginations in film.
But they are.
Because apparently the younguns are out of ideas.
Or didn't have any in the first place.
But that is a flaw with hollywood. Let us hope Cameron keeps directing.
I hope he gets best picture and rubs it in Bigelow's face. But says to her "strange days and point break? we had a run didn't we babe?" And she screams. Strange Days is a great film though.

Oh god please read Roger Ebert's review of the Lovely Bones. I basically fell over laughing because of one line. "This whole film is Jackson's fault."
He is talking about how great the actors are and then he's just like "FUCK IT. THIS MOVIE SUCKS AND THERE IS ONLY ONE REASON" Peter Jackson.
Oh yes. Peter Jackson cannot direct. Never could.

The picks.

Vikings
Colts.

Favre-Manning super bowl. Oh yes.

Jennifer's Body is excellent. WAY BETTER than Juno. Dead serious.
Totally fucking brilliant. More of those please. More.

If you need to find your way in life or other things, I say there is no better dual combo than 500 days of summer and Jennifer's Body. Two perfect notes. Sweet and Sour.

Nancy is on facebook.

That is all.

2010-01-15T14:50:00.001-08:00

The picks. Colts. Chargers. Cowboys AND Cards. I am probably crazy, but I do not trust the saints right now.

I need your phone numbers

2010-01-13T21:10:00.000-08:00

I got my new phone. Samsung Rogue. Bad ass.
So I need you to email or txt me your phone numbers. Since I lost all my contacts.

This is going to be short.

2010-01-04T18:02:00.000-08:00

I lost my phone at a bar.
So don't call or text until lets say Wednesday. New phone then. I was going to get a droid eris or some smartphone until I saw their plans for smartphones. Total bullshit.

Nancy and I are sorry Grant. Not really sorry, but sorry for annoying you.
I almost did karaoke. Actually I was up, but then I realized I needed to walk the dog.

I found out that there are a few words that you shouldn't say in a bar.
One of them is Patron
the other is single malt

ouch and fucking ouch.

Avatar review shortly.
NFL updates.
I got a DS. its addictive as shit.
why do we poison ourselves again?

So it was good to see grant

2009-12-16T11:34:00.000-08:00

It really was.
Albeit far too short a visit. I hoped he enjoyed himself.

Jae is nice enough. Seems like a good person. I am highly questionable of her relationship with Grant.
She reminded me of someone else, which made me angry. At myself and at her.

The Democrats are over.

It was fun while it lasted wasn't it? Fucking idiots.

Yup. I think the video explains everything.

Olympia it is. Nancy and I will be going over her contract and meet with her new employers soon.

She signed a lease, she moves in on Feb. 1st. I will probably move to Olympia soon after.

I do not know how to draft magic cards. I don't. I need to learn. Need to email bill about Starcity login to print out Ruel's articles.

This is me writing off the San Antonio Spurs.

I am going to see Avatar this weekend in Digital 3D. Not imax, not regular movie. Digital 3D. Just like Cameron filmed it.

Here's the thing about Tiger Woods. I don't give a shit.

But. I will watch every round of golf he plays when he comes back.
Also.
I want him paired with Jesper Parnevik in the opening round of the Masters. So tiger can destroy him.

I'm predicting Tiger wins AT LEAST two majors this year. What I would love. Is if Tiger wins the masters and his fan club is a bunch of porn stars busting out of their shirts hugging him.

The Phillies are fucking stupid.
One. Why trade Cliff Lee and prospects to get Halladay?
Is Halladay better? Yes. But why not just keep Lee and trade for Halladay with the prospects you have? Resign Halladay and watch Lee pitch his lights out.
You probably win the 2010 World Series. That being said. I still think the Phillies can win a world series WITH halladay. Just as they could with Cliff Lee.

I don't understand why the Red Sox got another number one starter.
I'm confused here.
You have Beckett, Lester, Daisuke, Bucholtz, Wakefield. Pretty fucking Deep right?
But at least 2 of those guys are number ones on most staffs.
So you need another great pitcher?
Don't the Red Sox need to shore up their lineup more since they lost Jason Bay and Lowell? We'll just shut them all down with our pitching! Unless of course Lackey, Daisuke and Wakefield get hurt. Which they are wont to do. And beckett doesn't seem the same. Stupid. This reminds me of the San Antonio Spurs. I'm just not sold.
For 80 million dollars why not spend that money on Matt Holiday. Or Jason Bay?

But even dumber
The Anaheim Angels.
Okay so you let your #1 Starter go to the Red Sox. A team you swept.
Then you sign Hideki Matsui over Vlad Guerrero. Which isn't that horrible but doesn't make much sense.
But when you heard the Mariners were getting Cliff Lee, don't you have to give Lackey whatever he wants.
90 million or whatever. I think you have to.
I mean if they lose the west by a few games, they can probably point to not re-signing lackey as the reason.

The Mariners are fucking in the best shape right now. Which is awesome since I can go watch King Felix and Cliff pitch.

The Yankees stole Granderson.

The NBA looks like the same teams. Which is good.

Mark my words when I said the Orlando Magic will underachieve. The master of Panic.

I think the Saints are going to run the table. Same for the Colts.

Except I'm saying it right here.

If the Patriots get in the playoffs. They will win the Super Bowl.

I don't know why. I just have a feeling. I could be way wrong. Like the dream where I thought Denver would beat Indy.

Off to work. I see the doctor on Monday. I think I will get a clean bill of health.

I'm sure there is something else I should be mentioning but I can't recall.

oh man.

2009-12-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

The best part of watching a HORRIBLE David Schwimmer film is the fact that the completely unfunny Michael Ian Black wrote it. If only Michael Showalter was in on it too. My glee would be uncontrollable.
Thank you HBO. And thank you Reno 911 for showing us the funny STATE cast members.

Seriously Fuck those jews.

Also CVAK is a coward. He said what we all were thinking. But I love him for throwing it out there.

this is great

2009-12-01T10:54:00.000-08:00

but this is EVEN BETTER

Iowa's loss doesn't mean much in the end.

2009-11-15T02:03:00.000-08:00

Okay so here's the deal.
If Iowa ran the table it would go to the Rose Bowl. No national title shot, unless texas lost.
We didn't. I don't see texas losing.
So losing two games means nothing other than we aren't the big ten champions. We still are going to a HUGE BOWL. I think. Completely overachieved. Ferentz should be big 10 coach of the year hands down. Probably coach of the year. But I'll give that to the coach at Cincy I think if they run the table.

Texas plays Florida/Alabama winner for national title.

Ohio State plays Pac 10(probably oregon)
Georgia Tech and Cincy or Pitt get in.
Alabama/Florida loser takes a slot.
TCU AND BOISE STATE are both in the BCS.

And if Iowa wins next week. They get to go to a BCS bowl.

I just can't find another team in the country that would have a better record.
Perhaps a 11-1 cincy team? if Pitt wins? Two big east teams? I don't think so.
Oklahoma State? Probably not.
No one from the PAC 10 is legit for an at large bid. SEC already has two. Otherwise LSU would be deserving.
No I think a 10-2 Big Ten team gets in. They sell out the stadium after all.
In this order. Iowa/Penn State/Wisconsin.
We obviously have the best shot because we are at home against Minn.
Wisconsin has two road games. At Northwestern and At Hawaii. Penn State at Michigan State.
But we beat both teams. Will probably finish ranked ahead of them as well. No we go to the BCS.
I thought capital one for sure. But USC is just laying a fucking egg. There simply isn't another team out there. I can't believe TWO non-BCS teams are making the bowls.
But if Boise State loses. I have NO idea which team gets that bid after that. Probably Oklahoma State if they go 10-2.
Or possibly Pitt.
Ideal matchups.

Florida vs Texas
Alabama vs TCU
Ohio State vs Oregon
Georgia Tech vs Cincinnati
Boise State vs Iowa

Something like that. You have a chance of having 4 undefeated teams at the end of the season. Including two from BCS conferences.
Or you could simply pair them off.
So then you would only have 3 at the most.
But I like the idea of the undefeated non national championship teams playing BCS conferences.
It proves something. The idea of Boise State vs TCU is not a good thing. I hope they don't do that.

I don't like our chances against ANY of those teams. With Boise State being the best chance for winning.

A playoff would be OH so much fun.
LSU and Pitt probably get the shaft because of us. Oh well.

We didn't die, instead we ALMOST died.

2009-11-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

Funny how almost is irrelevant when it never happens to you.
You either died or you didn't.
I guess I almost died. So I didn't die.
The picture you see here is from me on Wednesday the 4th. In the emergency room. Nasogastric tube is pumping out shit as you can see near my face. Gross. They are doing a fluid bolus into me and my temperature is still rising. I told them to take my temperature, I knew I was having a fever, and I was right. Yup not good. Everyone was really scared, somehow I told my dad to take a picture. I might have been the least scared. Everyone was kinda looking at me like I was already dead or dying.
The previous evening I woke up from the most severe pain I have ever felt and as a result could not move. I had been discharged on tuesday the 3rd. Tired. And sick of hospitals.
The medics came.
"whats the problem"
"I can't move because it hurts too much"
In ambulance "did you take the tylenol prescribed to you"
"not yet"
"why not? It will help you with your pain"
If I could have sat up and choked the life out of brice(the dipshit medic) right then and there I would have.
But I couldn't.
They took some x-rays. Gave me a ton of pain medications and fluids. Sent me on a ambulance ride back up to seattle. Long ride.
Somehow I managed to ask the medic taking me to seattle(much more kind and competent) if he had seen Bringing out the Dead.
"I own it" he says.
"great movie" I say.
So I get back to Swedish. The surgeon looks visibly shaken. Nancy is not in a good way. As she knows everything they are saying. Note to everyone, medical ignorance is a GOOD THING when you or someone you know is really sick. That way they can tell you "little" lies and make you feel better. Emergency surgery later that day. About 3-4 hour long surgery i think.
I wake up. Feeling surprisingly in less pain. And a 6 inch incision in my stomach with staples.
So as it turned out, I had a portion of small intestine so full of fluid it strangulated itself. Creating severe blockage and pain. The surgeon said as big as a python. But it is gone now. And on Friday the 6th I had a bowel movement and they sent me on my way. I'm off pain medication and shall return to work on Tuesday. No heavy lifting, but other than that normal. I lost around 12lbs in the hospital. Surgeon discharged me from his care yesterday.

Now I know what pain level I should feel post surgery.
Good to know for next time.

Feeling better. I tire easily.

A 10-2 Iowa season? We should be happier than shit. Instead the fanbase is complaining about not winning a national championship. Because when the fuck did that EVER happen at Iowa. 1958? Seriously. None of you were born. Shut the fuck up. Iowa is not as good as any team in the top 10.
That is why Iowa is such a great team.
Duh. But not national title material. Never was. Probably never will be.
And that is okay.
It is Iowa.

We didn't die.

2009-11-01T08:45:00.000-08:00

We are alive and well.
I just pissed without a catheter yesterday.
So once I shit I'll be out of here.

I will see you soon.We

In case I die tomorrow...

2009-10-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

Which I won't.
But If I do.
You guys are awesome.
I was SO right about Obama.
Episode 3 is the GREATEST MOVIE EVER. And I still stand by that.

And you have to buy the following things for Nancy for Christmas from me:
Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box for DS
the 80s barbie and the rockers doll.
and a obstacle/agility course for her dog.

Surgery is tomorrow. All details will be posted post haste.

out

me

Surgery soon....

2009-10-26T11:21:00.000-07:00

If I have to see an IBM ad again about how they are revolutionizing blah blah blah.
I am going to scream.
No you are not.
You are simply saying you can do something on a large scale that you really can't do. Just something maybe a few engineers are working on so I buy your stock or software.
Fucking wankers. Seriously fuck IBM and the mom with the rollover minutes.
And the anti-iphone app commercials and the apple commercials. Fuck apple, seriously just put the iphone on every fucking network so I don't have to see all this shit.
Cingular sucks(its not at&t mabell doesn't even exist anymore)

Oh yeah.

Don't change your name.

Iowa is #4. Don't get your hopes up kids.
It isn't going to happen.

Grant drafted rajon rondo with the 5th pick. WOW.

Damages is a good show.

Some things and that....

2009-10-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

Okay....Grant Read Game of Thrones. Seriously. Matt. Not even funny.

Grant
Kevin
And I are playing fantasy basketball. A fourth anyone? The draft is on Sunday at 1pm. Let me know beforehand.
If you've never done it its not hard. You just draft the best players available or players you think are going to crash through. They have the rankings on websites. Easy. LikeBasketballFinal Fantasy.
And every week your party scores points and you level up.

DEXTER SUCKS. Seriously it sucks. What a gimmick.
Damages on the other hand...

I saw Paranormal Activity.
Ok so it isn't good.
It isn't.
But it was fun to be in a theater with retards screaming. That in itself is fun.
Not sure why. Nostalgia for a younger time? I had a memory during the movie. And that in itself was good.

okay. I went to a wedding with Nancy. We had fun. Facebook pictures apparently popped up on it. Not my doing.

Nancy's job search continues. At this point it is beyond exhausting.
If you have a DS check out Professor Layton and the Curious Village. Nancy loves it.

I still think the Yankees win the world series. But it might be nervewracking game 6 for them.

The NFL okay so some things have changed.

The Vikings are MUCH better with Brett Favre.
The Saints are good.
Somebody is going to win the NFC WEST
The giants win their division and the eagles and falcolns are wildcards.
The cowboys are done. DONE.

BRONCOS. Okay no one saw that coming.
New England still looks like it will win its division. But don't be surprised if Miami catches wind, or the Jets do something. But still New England. I am not sold on New England right now. They get Tampa Bay in LONDON!!! Run up the score Tom, maybe you can get MVP? Fucking cock. He really is the shittiest asshole in the nfl. But then again his coach is too.
Steelers, Colts.
Colts are the best team in Football. Best in NFC? Good question. I would have told you giants.
But Maybe New Orleans, Maybe Vikings. Philly could be great.
Okay question marks?
Ravens?
Bengals?
Chargers?
Why in the hell are the titans 0-6?

Where are your two AFC wild card teams? At this point I don't really know.
I kinda have a hankering for magic online. And an rpg like KOTOR. Is mass effect that rpg?

But the most important news is that I am having surgery on the 30th.
Bowel Resection or Strictureplasty. Probably laprascopic.
Pretty routine and done in my case quite often.
It needed to be done.
So if it is laprascopic I will probably be out of the hospital in a few days. If it is an open tissue surgery then I might be out of the hospital in a week or so.
I plan on getting my small intestine back in a jar.
I will probably be back to work in a couple of weeks, as many as 6 if it gets complicated.
It shouldn't I'm perfectly healthy with exception to this little bugger.
Not a cure, but could make me asymptomatic for a number of years. That combined with good medication may keep the severity of the disease at bay for a long long time. This is good news.
I'm having it done at Swedish Medical Center. Very very good place. My surgeon also has an MBA. Bravo. Bravo indeed.

When next I blog. It will be post op. Or else I died from surgery. So if you don't get a blog by oh lets say the 6th of november. I'm dead. I haven't finished my advance directives yet. But I will, they will be hilarious.

That is all.

what about heart?

2009-09-24T01:06:00.000-07:00

Heart is a great band.
Seriously.
Not a joke of a band.
But a great band.
I mean yeah. They are chicks. So yeah they might not hit you in the same way.
But seriously.
They fucking rock.
They do.
And not in a cyndi lauper sort of way.
Not in a way where you feel kinda guilty for liking them.
No. In fact, I mean if you don't like Heart somewhat I don't think I really like you. Or have an appreciation for them.
Seriously. Look at their collection. Its stellar. I'd say at least 6 songs you could seriously put up with any other song and say "that is how it is done." Another 14 really good songs, and about 40 more good songs. And some turds sure, but seriously. That is pretty great, especially for the length of time they've been around. We are going on 40 years almost now? Or something like that.
It is great. Give them another look. Play them more at a bar. It isn't some guilty pleasure.
They are legit.
Talk to Kevin. He'll straighten you out.
And they fucking rocked the Seattle Fair to the ground. Everyone was happy, she has great range, sold out crowd. Huge crowd.
And Nancy loved it. And every song they did, they did fucking well.

BUT (A BIG BUT)

they covered two Zeppelin songs.

FUCKING WHY?
Because Zeppelin is so revered? They are in my book. You don't cover Zeppelin. You don't open up a conversation about your literary theories on Ulysses at a cocktail party. You don't do it.
Is it because Heart couldn't do a fair job.?
Ann Wilson has the fucking range. She could sit on a stage with Plant and not bat an eye. In fact she is one of the few lead singers alive in a band that can even pull off a Zeppelin song well.
Is Heart as good as Zeppelin of course not.
Can Nancy not play a Mandolin as well as Page? No she can't. But can she do a fantastic job? Yes.
So you have a band that can cover zeppelin.

That is the problem.
Heart is talented enough in all aspects to cover Zeppelin songs. They did a great job with Immigrant song.

But why?
WHY do it.
You've been around for 30+ years, you have an amazing collection of songs, way more than enough for a set list.
Why cover and bring down the hammer of the gods?
Heart is good enough on their own to rock a crowd. If Zeppelin never existed would Heart be any less good? No.
Is it because they can? Not many can. And do it well. But Ann's range and Nancy's guitar work is impressive enough, it is superb, do you really need to get extra credit?
If they love Zeppelin enough to say "we would want everyone to hear a Zeppelin song every time we go out there" Okay I'm fine with that. But that is the only reason to.
I mean it might honestly be like "this band matters enough for us and our music to play a cover" That makes sense. If I had a band, I'd probably feel the same way, but I wouldn't have the audacity to cover it. Maybe they do. Maybe they should? We know they could, and they can. I've seen them do it.

But it felt wrong. I went there to see heart, you would think I'd be besides myself listening to immigrant song by Ann Wilson. Instead, I was crossing my arms wanting to scream "YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH WITHOUT THEM!"
Nancy Agreed. They have easily 20+ songs that are concert worthy. No doubt.

But what if they actually thought "our show just isn't good enough without going to California?"

Wouldn't that be depressing? Sad even.

Nancy and I are excited about Jennifer's Body. It looks good.

Why Michael Jordan sucks.

2009-09-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

1.) Okay so he just got inducted to the hall of fame and said? "I Cringe at being called the greatest of all time" I never got to play against Elgin Baylor/Jerry West blah blah blah.

Okay lets get some things straight.
Jordan was better than a terrible Western Conference for Six years.
Now.
Did Jordan play the Bird led celtics in their prime? Yes. Jordan got his ass handed to him every time. The bulls don't beat that team. They don't. Never ever. 86 Celtics
Did Jordan play the Showtime lakers? Not really. He won one finals against them. Oh yes, Magic retired that year AND no Kareem. So give me a fucking break.
Did Jordan ever play the Kobe/Shaq duo in full force? No. Which team does Phil Jackson take?
His 2000-2004 lakers? Or Jordan's bulls? I know the answer.
How in the fuck do they stop Shaq?

Jordan wins a championship in 91 Bird is plagued by injuries for three years prior. Pistons kick their ass for two years before that. And then the triangle offense is put in. Hee hee hee. 10 championships later can we say its pretty damn good?
Now.

Lets look at the teams he beat in the finals.
Portland
Lakers
Phoenix
Supersonics
Jazz(twice)

Now every time I know the bulls were a better team. Maybe the last championship Jordan got into the jazz's head a little bit.
But still.
After Jordan goes out, do the Jazz dominate? Nope. Did fucking Phoenix explode? No.
The only real question is the Hakeem/Clyde Rockets when Jordan retires the first time.
That would have been great to see. I see Hakeem winning the first one, Jordan the second. But again after the second championship Hakeem falls off a bit, and they never got it back.

Now what Jordan did do right.

He rose up and beat a really good/horribly dirty Pistons team. And kept them out of the limelight for two years. Before they totally imploded. To the pistons credit one year I think Isiah thomas had surgery on his hand before the NBA playoffs for Jordan's first championship.
But I have no doubt he would have won the next two.
He beat some okay Pacers teams, and some teams with Patrick Ewing.
Do the Bulls beat the Spurs team in 1999-2007. Probably. It would be nice to see. I could see the Spurs snagging one or two off the Bulls.
Do the Bulls beat the Miami Heat? Yes.
Do the Bulls beat the 2008 Celtics. Again probably. It would have been great to see.
Do the Bulls beat the Lakers in 2000-2003? Not a chance in hell.
Do the Bulls or ANYONE beat a healthy 2004 lakers? No.
Do the Bulls beat the new Pistons? Yes.
Do the Bulls beat the 2009 lakers? Probably.

But the best part is that doesn't matter. Because frankly the NBA is fucking fantastic without Jordan.
It was fucking fantastic before he started to win.
Jordan hit a perfect storm. A lull in the superpowers, mediocrity coming out of the drafts. And the teams that were competitive just didn't have it in them.

Now? Not so.
You have 4 teams that are awesome if healthy. I mean just fucking rad.

Was Jordan the best shooting guard of all time?
I am going to have to say yes.
The most talented player of all time? No. There are about 6 players I could name that were more talented or physically gifted. That doesn't mean he wasn't awesome.
The hardest working? That is very possible. And that was enough for him. And that should be enough for him. I mean we saw what Jordan did when he just played off his talent. Scoring titles, and getting his ass handed to him by good teams.

I just think we are getting way ahead of ourselves on all this greatest of all time shit.

Tennis is a prime example, Pete Sampras hit a perfect storm where serves were rewarded. He didn't lose his serve. He won six wimbledons as a result. So did Richard Kraijeck in the same period. Remember that guy? NOPE. I can still remember Mcenroe just bitching and moaning about the new racquets. The only place that was truly pure was a clay court. And of course you had assholes winning there.
So wimbledon did something crazy. They slowed the court down. Suddenly players can return stuff and you have rallies. And then luxilon comes along. It was a string. It changed tennis forever. And for the better. But again. You never know. Technology all that shit.

Andre Agassi won two majors on talent. Worked his ass off and won another 6. The fucker couldn't serve worth a shit. More talented by Sampras by a mile. If he had sampras' serve he would have won i dunno 20 majors.

Again. Its perspective.
Does Federer beat Sampras on old wimbledon? With racquets? Without luxilon? Probably not.
Does sampras beat mcenroe with a wooden racquet? No.

So is Federer the best ever? Well he did win 15. And won in france? Again. Better than laver I don't know.
Federer is the greatest shot maker of all time. I've seen video of the greats.
But again, Did laver have luxilon strings? No.

Golf is another interesting thing. Technology has changed, the ball is too long.
But could Tiger Woods beat Nicklaus at augusta with old equipment? Very possible.

I mean best football team? Its a changed game. Who the fuck cares.

Does Babe Ruth hit a home run off Pedro in his prime?

Greatness only happens when it happens. Hopefully it is recorded for posterity's sake.

DUH.
This is stupid.

Michael Jordan sucks. For the gambling, the womanizing, and just being a dick head. For not standing up against a shoe company that kids killed themselves for, and that kids were being killed to make. And for coming back with the Wizards. Dum Dum.

GGJ welcome to the verizon network. We missed you.

The speech was good. the heckling even better.

Now. Is their going to be any legislation that matters?
Again, the bills need to get done. Next week. Once I see the house and senate bills I'll let you know.

I'm going to go see Heart in a few weeks. New glasses next month. Its been 5 years. Probably time. Same frame is still around! Yes.

Nancy is at Cannon Beach with her Sister. Sounds fun.

I don't think I like working on Saturdays....at all.

can I admit I've been wanting to see 500 days of Summer really bad?
And that Nancy wants to see 9 and that pisses me off to no end.
But she also wants to see sorority row, because well sorority girls get killed. So she is redeemed.

Don't get me started on the cgi animated things...unless they have lightsabers and are on tv.

TV rant

2009-09-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

I've seen it.

And it was really good.

It has Eric Stoltz in it.
Trixie from Deadwood.
Atia from Rome.
And the old man. As a little kid.

Well acted.

Well written.

Nicely shot, like BSG always is.

And then.

My mind started reeling.

I started asking questions.

Okay so they have to bring Saul and the others, because where the fuck are they? then I started thinking about timelines. And resurrection and the fucking hybrids. And daniel.
And Kara's dad....

TIMELINES.

And.

I was done.

It looks good. A new story. A great story. I didn't think I would care, but I did.
But they can't fuck it up.
They have to get it right.
They have to understand that you can't fuck the timeline/characters up.
It has to sync and make sense. By my guess is they have 10 years in which they can do whatever they want. I think. But the real question is this.
Will they fuck it up?
Why am I taking them back?

And yet I am.
Sigh.
Caprica is very good. A mix of strange days/matrix/and of course BSG. I'm going to watch it.
Science Fiction. Fuckers.

In great/bittersweet news.

Sara Connor is going to be Cersei(not linda hamilton) but the chick from the show.
THIS IS GREAT. As she is awesome at being a bitch.
The bad news is that Sara Connor Chronicles is dead. But I knew that anyway. Syfy(duh) needs to take all the great shows and say listen "you fuckers need work" start writing. People need to start making less money. Seriously. If fucking sci-fi can produce traptorvsvelocishark 3 every fucking week they can make a good show that doesn't break their bank. Seriously. This is a bad economy. So start making lean shows, well written shows. You break the bank when you have to. But still. You don't need to build sets anymore. The money aspect always kills me. Reality shows are thrown out there because the profit is so high. Why the fuck can't screen writers take reality show money? No one hard up for work? Everyone is just rolling in it? I'm tired of this shit. Or fucking follow the japanese model. You have a series. Its 24-36 episodes. A beginning and a fucking end. Thats it. Get em hooked. End it. Move on to the next one. So you get a well written show that makes a bunch of money and what do you do? You either let it wither slowly while producers make shitty season after shitty season. Or you cancel it because you grew too fast and the viewership dropped off. People can watch your show for fucking FREE. Ugh.
The laws have changed. Less money to be had. New delivery systems. Find the medium, find the sweet spot. And don't fucking leave it. Thats why big brother 15 is going to come out. They just don't know what to do. Dinosaur.
Oh well. This happens all the time. Fox always fucks up.
I would like both, but if I had the choice between a great Cersei and the terminator show I'll take Cersei everytime.

True Blood and Hung are almost over.
I love both. Thought I would be done with both starting out this season. Well done.
HBO has a great model. Premium prices for a premium product. Sell the DVD. Again. All online. It might not last. But I think they have a good thing going.
You pay us 18 dollars a month. We show you some movies. Produce 5-8 shows a year with 10-13 episodes.
Hee hee.
But even they go overboard. Rome is a great example.
If Game of Thrones fans don't pony up and subscribe to HBO and think they can torrent the episodes. I don't want to hear a fucking word about when its cancelled.
There are millions of you fuckers.
Geeks playing your wow with your netflix subscription. Not a fucking word.

Grant and Kevin write TV. This has to be redone.
This has to be fixed.

If Obama cannot get rid of pre-existing conditions by 2012. I will not vote for him. In fact i also hear his brain trust is thinking about raising taxes on people making less than 250k. Again. I'd be done with that fucker if that goes down. Taxing health benefits? Fuck you. I'd probably hate him worse than Bush. At least I knew Bush wanted to fuck me.
There is a LOT of fat at the top of this country. A lot of fat. A lot of taxes to be had. What the fuck are they afraid of? These people don't generate wealth. We've proven that over and over again. We are a consumer driven economy. A billionaire doesn't buy a million iphones.
But people making 100k do buy iphones. People making 50k do. 30k. Kids do.
So apple makes a ton of money. Now. Can Steve Jobs Make 58% of 1 billion? Is that okay? Can that pay for services for people? Will Steve Jobs take his personal money and start a corporation? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Will Apple take their money and hire more if people making less than a shit ton can spend it on ipods? YES. See. Easy.
EASY.
Rich people like to spend their money on nothing but themselves. Which is fine. But they are small. And even if they do vote and they can vote for their wallets. But they don't seem to me to be the large majority of the people.
If Democrats cannot get health care reform done by 2010. I will probably never vote for another member of the democratic party again unless I know they are doing the right thing. Seriously.
This could very well be the beginning of the end. I am not talking about glen beck fire and brimstone. I'm talking about as a party, doing what is right. A platform.
Big tent is nice. But vision for change was what this bullshit was all about?
Wasn't it?

There are no excuses. No we don't have the votes. You've had the votes since January. All the votes.
No Ted Kennedy is dead.
None of that shit.

I don't think I voted just so the republicans couldn't mess anything up further.
The holding pattern time is over.

Count the months. You have about 3 in my estimation before they start pissing their pants about re-election.

3 months. When you file your taxes. You better hope a bill is signed. Or forget about it.

Forget about it all. For a while.

Unions and lists.

2009-08-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just joined a real union. AFSCME bitches!
Eh.

Nancy and I are creating a movie list. It contains movies she hasn't seen that I think she should see.
This was her idea. Not mine. I could give a crap. We are not even close to done.
The list so far:

Hellraiser
Exorcist
Cabinet of Dr. Caligari
Dracula(new. Though the old one is a classic and you could make a case for Nosferatu instead, I really think that its important as a Coppola film and the most true to the novel.) I could go on and on about the techniques used in Dracula. but lets not. Lets just say I think its the most important vampire book ever written and consequently probably the most important vampire film ever made and for entirely separate reasons than being true to the novel.
Alien/Aliens
Predator
Thx-1138
2001
Solaris(foreign silly)
Metropolis
Thing
Abyss
Forbidden Planet
Day the Earth Stood Still(old silly)
Planet of the Apes(old silly)
Terminator 2
Searchers
Unforgiven
Open Range
Shane
Dances with Wolves
Lonesome Dove
Apocalypse Now
Conversation
Days of Heaven
Badlands
New World
Raging Bull
Hustler
Color of Money
Last Temptation of Christ
Casino
Mean Streets

This is just what we did in about 20 or so minutes. We just went by genre and then directors.
Coppola, Scorsese, Malick, Horror and Westerns are pretty much covered. And while I think there are some silent films that warrant merit I think other than metropolis and cabinet, none are truly worth making someone watch unless they really like buster keaton and the like or they plan on studying film.
But Metropolis is THE film for the genre. And Cabinet is the film for a whole movement.
Good enough I say.
I just think if you are going to make someone sit through A silent film. Metropolis should be the one.
But that is just me. I like spaceships.

Steroids suck.

District 9

2009-08-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night we were going to go to District 9. I came home from work and my parents walked in the door.
How are you doing I asked?
We just walked out of a movie
What movie?
District 9.
Uh oh.
So I tell nancy and we decide not to go to district 9.
Have I made a mistake?
Instead we go out for sushi, make popcorn eat candy and we watch the edge(she had never seen it) and I was in a David Mamet mood anyway. It was a good night. The rep is putting on glengarry this year so I'm really excited about that.

I head to the doctor in seattle, and then one day of work tomorrow. And a few days off.

And Kevin and then Matt's birthday! Happy Birthday assholes.
My mother's too as it turns out.

I might just cry

2009-08-21T20:15:00.001-07:00

I hadn't actually seen any footage...Oh.
Oh oh oh it looks just....just.....
Knees are weak.

if I had to pick a pat benatar song...

2009-08-20T19:36:00.000-07:00

It would be we belong.
I have once sung the entire lyrics to love is a battlefield drunk while playing a poker hand.
I won.
Now would I consider Pat Benatar to be someone I needed to see in my lifetime I would have said no.
Crile, Todd, and I were going to see her for free, but it rained out. I could have given a shit.

Boy was I wrong.

Because on a sober saturday night, 56 year old Pat Benatar playing her second straight show at a casino, rocked the house.

I say the highlight was Shadows of the Night. But does it matter? Become a rock star, know the limitations of your voice and everything will be fine.

Still haven't seen District 9. I plan to this weekend. If not Friday, Saturday.

I am now going to finish the film Queen of Blood. Buy some alcohol(rubbing) and go to sleep.

George RR MARTIN Is driving me insane. INSANE. Fucking hinting at this hbo show like it is crack. I can't take this. GRANT. READ IT. Or else I'm talking about her next post....

I will never got to AT&T. Why that fucking mom nagging about rollover minutes.
Seriously. Fuck AT&T. You fuck a commercial with me and you are asking for forever ban.
FOREVER.

Okay there is a box of cheerios with a black lady on the back.
She is scary.
About her cholesterol dropping 10% in one month.
Have I already talked about this??
I love cheerios. But can't buy the shit because of her on the box.
Why not the fucking knockoff you say?
BHT in the packaging I say.
No cheerios until this is resolved.
I like cheerios.
Get rid of scary black lady.
There are tons of non scary black ladies, she is just Wayyyyyyy TOO FUCKING EXCITED ABOUT EATING THOSE CHEERIOS.

To Grant and Matt. Congratulations. Grant keep on rocking.
Matt start making lists.
Or watch the scene in 40 year old virgin where Paul Rudd talks about his ex at the coffee shop.
That is soooooooo you with stupid face. It kills me every time I see it. Actually Paul Rudd reminds me of Matt consistently. I don't care what anyone says.

Oh yes. Brett Favre. This makes the Vikings much better. Will win division. Not NFC. Maybe a playoff game. Not super bowl. Well if he plays like he can and doesn't wear down maybe.

I wish I could go out to dinner with Kathleen. Just to talk. She can't spill pop on her self. That is the rule.

Union Vote at library. Not sure how that will go. AFSCME

More after District 9.

Let us do this right....

2009-08-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

So. Matt has been blogging. Apparently my rss feed on firefox has told me that he has not.
Apparently the past three months of matt's blog I have not read.
I just got caught up.
So basically All of june and july i could have had my day brightened by his wacky adventures.
This infuriated me.
In fact. I am almost about to dump firefox.
Never for Safari. Apple will never get anything from me. Never. Once I installed quick time.
I took a shower and then found quicktime alternative.
I hate apple.
IE sucks. Opera isn't better than firefox.
So that leaves....
chrome.
Google.
Hmmm.
Google makes me uncomfortable.
I use their email. I like it.
I do not use their search. Ask.com for that.
But their browser?
Faster. It is nice. Intuitive. Does things I want it to do.
I spent tonight benchmarking browsers. Chrome won.
I really use to love firefox. But I feel spurned. Angry even.
I am debating the jump.
I do not want google to become too powerful. I will never use their OS or their phone.
But if I use their email and browser? And possibly their voip soon? Have I gone over too far?
Firefox or Opera just needs to man up and make the best browser ever. I thought firefox was that.
But this losing two months of matt thing really irks me.

I have seen no summer movies since Star Trek.
I saw Wolverine. It was okay.
Oh yeah Star Trek.
Here's the thing. I didn't hate it.
But it isn't Star Trek.
I don't much like Star Trek to begin with. But let us say that most of the time the show is opera/hard sci-fi.
Star Trek the movie. Is more along the lines of a Chronicles of Riddick. I liked Chronicles of Riddick, in fact much more than Star Trek.
Movies=money. I am just getting tired of relaunches, remakes, sequels. Make it blow up. Throw a big trailer down our throats. Hope we see it. I'm just kinda done with that. I'll netflix it if it looks okay. But the 9 dollar tentpole? Go fuck off.
Transformers 2 looked good on paper. Simple things blowing up. I didn't go because of the reviews. It apparently is utter dogshit.
I wanted to see Public Enemies, will wait for a rental. I really kinda hate Depp. And Christian Bale.
Again Terminator 4. What is the point? Seriously.
I mean what are we waiting for? Superman 6 to come out Batman 7? Star Trek v2.2 is coming soon! More twilight! Watchmen 2!!!!!!!!!!
Any movies make you quiver? Since Revenge of the Sith?
None. Fun movies sure.

There is one. Some movies look awesome coming up District 9 for one. Oh I'm sure Shutter Island will be good or something or other. Or some indie movie with Paul Giamatti.

But one. Just one that makes me kinda weak in the knees.

AVATAR.

In December. James Cameron. The return. Sci-Fi. HARD sci-fi. I would say Abyss in space.
3D. And not gimmick 3D. This fucker believes in this shit. Much like Lucas in digital.

This is the movie. The one where you might just say "FUCKING WOW". I'm hanging my hopes on this one.

And it isn't a sequel.

Iowa Sucks. I'm sorry it does. I went there and it was awesome to see you fellas. I like you guys. I really do. But I wasn't meant to live there.
I hope Grant and Matt move to Iowa City.

On Grant. He is doing well by all accounts. I think he has it figured out I'm sure some things are burning at him, but we all have those.
Matt is Matt. And needs to make lists. BIG LISTS. And follow them.
I felt bad for nicole losing john hughes and jacko in a short time has got to be rough. Nancy and I(okay mostly me) were a little irritated that we didn't get to meet her man. But Nancy liked Nicole and we were very impressed with that she has done with the house. Quite impressed.

Nancy enjoyed everyone she met in Iowa. Even Matt. The situation wasn't as serious with Matt as I made it out to be, I was just concerned is all and probably overreacted. Matt I'm sorry.
She has some reservations of some people's mates.
But I think we all have those. And when we sit down to discuss this person with the person not there we say the same things. So let us not mention them here. There is no reason to criticize someone's choice of boyfriend/girlfriend in lieu of extraneous events. It would seem odd. Ahem cough.

Oh yeah.

But one more thing about the whole situation.

Because it is petty but I still feel it.

Zeke Furlong you are the biggest piece of shit I have ever met.
You have been nothing but childish since I've known you. And the sad part is you should have a perspective on life and relationships that should far outstrip me and everyone I know.
Instead you seem petulant and spoiled.

But you don't.
You are small. In stature and soul.
And you always have been. Even when we were too young to know any better. Somehow you never did.
You've earned my pity fucker. And my disdain.
And your wife is a dumb bitch and I don't like her. But that is irrelevant. It just increases my pity that you have to put up with her, but now I think you've earned it. And I simply snicker with no guilt. I remember a few years ago I was told something about you that made my heart throb with compassion, musing on ways I could help. Now. I could care less. And it wasn't because of a lapse of time, or my heart growing cold. No. It was a simple human response to someone who is simply left wanting.

Grant read game of thrones. Matt make grant read game of thrones.
Sean Bean as ned is SOOOOOOOOO good. I have a copy of the station agent just so I can see Mccarthy's work and tyrion in action.

I love Kathleen. And yet she is a total mystery to me. She is. And this isn't a slight. I consider her a good friend.
Congratulations on your engagement. You are taking a wonderful leap. I wish her the best.
Although I am quite upset she removed her blog. Grrrr.

Not sure about what is going on with Chris. I need to call him.

Okay geeks. Gather round.

We are playing the Old Republic. This is our pact.
Chris
Grant
Matt
Ben
I'm even thinking Todd.
Anyone else.
I'll buy a new computer. I've already told Nancy this could bring a little stress on our relationship. She understands.

No fucking WOW. None of that shit. Old Republic. I am seriously considering not even playing as a Jedi. I've never been enthralled by mmorpg not even Star Wars galaxies. But if you read up on how they are doing this shit. Voice acting, story centered not character centered. It becomes a whole new ballgame.

Okay enough of that.

Read Name of the Wind. Good call Matt. Keep fantasy suggestions coming.

I have seen 4 films by myself.

Waxwork 1 and 2. Both horrid and great.
The Ruins and The Mist. I enjoyed both a LOT.
Redbelt. David Mamet. What else is their to say. The man's a fucking genius.

Have yet to listen to Octahedron. I hate the band MUSE. With all my heart.
I did listen to Chinese Democracy. I didn't hate it. And sent it back to the library.
The end of overeating is a pretty interesting as a book.

I have yet to talk to Bill Stark. I am seriously considering seeing him on the 24th. But I'm worried I'll miss him and he will get mad.

Politics? Obama is becoming Bill. And he's too fucking nice.
Every fucking liberal is complaining because he's too fucking nice.
I told you so. During the primaries all you did was bitch about the evil monster slutbag hillary, and how we need change. And now he wants to let Republicans fuck everything up and you're pissed? Duh. I said you needed a killer. Good thing we have one as a secretary of state.
That being said. I think we will get health care something.
I'm not shitting on Obama. Its just the way it is. Better than anything we've had in 9 years. But its not exactly christ curing lepers is it?
Probably something along the lines of no discrimination, but no public option.
Health Care Premiums will go through the roof as they always have. And poor people and middle class people will get subsidies and tax cuts. Its good. But not great.
We need single payer. We're not getting it. But no pre-existing conditions is fine by me. It does allow freedom of capital for humans. You can quit your shitty job and get a new one. Its fine. But if you are unhealthy you basically will have to consider health care like a mortgage. Obama sold out to pharma. Big deal. Obama has always been a sell out. But this is the warning. There are no guarantees that in 2010. I think Obama wins re-election. But this filibuster proof shit probably won't last. So use it now. Too bad for Blue dogs huh?
We will spend less on stupid shit and more on premiums. But you know what. Health is better than stupid shit. I should know.

So back to health. I have a new job. I work at Westport Library. It is a 20 minute drive. I work Tuesday-Saturday. It is a great calm, beach community. People are laid back and tourists just want to use the internet. It pays okay.
And I get health care, and dental, and retirement.
Speaking of health care. I spend 30% of my paycheck on my portion of my health care premium. Thats right. 30%.
And you know what. Its worth every penny.
Its great.
I'm going back on Humira. Humira we've talked about. It cost me 750 dollars a month on my old health care. Which was half the cost.
It costs me 15 dollars a month on this plan.
All my visits/procedures are covered at 100%.
I basically took my pay raise and am using to cover my medical expenses.
And I'm just fine with that.
I still make nothing. I average less than minimum wage with my pension deductions and everything.
But its okay. Because it means.
I have my health. I can enjoy things. Eat things. Not be in pain.
Live.
Its important.
More important than money. Quality of life. Sure I can't buy a home or pay rent. But I am happy. And getting better.
My doctor is on medical leave so I had to find a new doctor. Turns out I found the best gastro enterologist in the state. I can go out of the state if I need to.
Yes it is nice.
And I'm sure the premium will go up in January. It always does.

I have a kindle.
I love my kindle.
You should consider getting a kindle.
I rarely pay for books, torrents are great. The web browser on it is okay. But its not for that.
Kindle is awesome.

I'm listening to Handsome Furs. I like them a lot. But I do not like Sunset Rubdown. Clever.
I need band suggestions. I'm way way way out of the loop.
I was shocked when I heard that Phoenix was big.

District 9 reviews are in....overwhelmingly good. I'm going.

I love True Blood.
Season One is just utter trash(in a good way)
Season Two sucked bad when it started no pun needed but now is great.
Even Hung has come around and is chuckle worthy.
HBO is doing well.

Hate Entourage.
Worship Big Love. Nancy and I went to Nauvoo for fucks sake because of the show.
Have First two seasons of Dexter on deck.
Nancy says we have to watch Caprica. I'm still steaming about BSG. I get upset, almost panic attack upset when I think about it. I try to forget about it. I wonder if people got that way with Episode One? I bet they did.

They need to keep making Sarah Connor Chronicles. And Clone Wars.
I watched Season 5 of lost one weekend when nancy was at a convention. I'm going to finish it. But I'm not happy about it one bit.

Dori is getting married. Went to China. Haven't talked to her in forever.

Kevin needs a new job. One that challenges him. Or Law School. One that challenges him.

Why don't I miss magic?

The NBA:
Everyone is healthy.
The Celtics are the team to beat.
The Lakers are the best in the west.
The Cavs are good. Much better. No one is paying attention to the Anthony Parker or the Moon signing. Combined with Shaq and Powe coming on later. This is a MUCH MUCH better Cavaliers team than last year. You have a furious Lebron. Seriously. They could win it. But my money is on a great great celtics/lakers finals. With the celtics winning if healthy. Signing Big Baby and Shelden Williams basically locked it for me. If I was grant I would be terrified of the potential Cavs. And nervous about the Lakers. But most nervous about Garnett's knee.

Teams that are going to be good but won't make the leap to contender.
Mavs, Nuggets, Spurs. Trailblazers and Miami if they get Boozer and Iverson will help(REALLY).
Teams that are dead in the water: Houston So sad.
Wild Card: New Orleans.
Team that will totally disappoint: Orlando. They may still be the 3 seed. But if Boston and Cleveland are healthy it will show.
The playoffs are going to be fucking great. I am so hoping for no injuries. So hoping.
and then the 2010 free agency class. YES.

U.S. Soccer. Seriously. Get to the world cup. I don't care until the world cup. Then I LOVE soccer. MLS Can blow me.
Golf as an olympic sport? About fucking time. Tiger Woods is sick.
Roger Federer is the greatest player to touch a tennis racquet. Why people still tout sampras is beyond me. I could beat sampras on clay. Joking, but seriously. Fed won in france. has more than sampras. Enough said. If he ever beats Nadal in Paris then he solidifies himself as the best on clay. But hard and grass? Federer. No doubt. Nadal may not return to dominance.
People who think lance armstrong is legit are fucking sad.

Baseball: The most boring sport to watch. Seriously. I can follow a baseball season without watching a single fucking game. And the stats. And the hall of fame and the record books.
Lets just get this straight. Our childhood is complete bullshit when it comes to comparing those players to players from the 60-80s. It isn't legit. Just enjoy the sport as a bunch of fucking cheaters.

Okay. So in the AL. You basically have The Yankees, with the potential for the Angels to become good. Everyone thinks the Red Sox should be good and they should be but they are way too dinged up and their is no evidence that Daisuke and Wakefield are going to be fine by playoff time. And they may get passed by Texas/Tampa Bay in the wild card. Detroit is okay. But not scary. Getting washburn helped. If peavy is good and can pitch this year and chicago catches detroit maybe with peavy and buerhle they can make a run. But something tells me this is New York's year to get to the series.
Your Cy Young winner is either halladay, king felix, or greinke.
MVP: Some asshole outta the twins? Mauer or Morneau or somebody. Morneau I think.

The NL. The Dodgers win their division. They are good. Philly wins their division. No doubt.
Cubs are fading. I think St. Louis takes it by default. Pujols wins the mvp hands down. Not even a question.
The wild card.
Ok now things are interesting. Obviously the fucking Giants have a sick sick rotation. But can they hit to get into the wild card. Colorado is overachieving. My gut says the giants and with the Cy young hippy: Lincecum and he'll win it again this year they are scary.
But scariest of all are the Phillies. Okay they win the world series last year. And they add Cliff Lee who looks fucking great and pedro who showed really good stuff. Jamie Moyer is your sixth starter? Give me a break. They have the rotation and the fucking closer. And a great lineup. I know the dodgers can score runs. But my bet is on pitching. And Right now I like the Phillies and the Yankees in the world series. Perhaps San Fran gets in and shocks the world. Or Daisuke/Lester/Wakefield get their shit together or the white sox do something or verlander/washburn explode and cc and burnett implode. I just don't know about the Angels or the Dodgers until they get into a series.
But i think right now the two best teams are Philly and NY.
Here's the sickest part. The phillies didn't give up any of their young pitchers to get lee.
They are only going to get better....ugh. Philly has a had a rough time of it. And guess what.

They might win the fucking super bowl too.
They signed michael vick.
Okay. People are going to get all wet about the patriots. But the eagles have one of the best quarterbacks, a good young receiver core, great defense the best x-factor running back in football and now the best x-factor quarterback if he's healthy.
Holy hell this could be scary. Scarier than brady to randy moss.
And rabid fans.
How good is the NFC EAST? Scary good. Redskins were decent 8-8 football team and they added the single biggest run stopper in the league. Cowboys? LOADED on talent. Eagles. Already said that.
Giants? Wow. I mean wow. Murderer's row.
AFC East? Tom Brady back. Much improved miami team. Jets are good if they have a quarterback. And the bills were good until they imploded. TO could make them good. Again not an easy division.

AFC South: Also good. But not as good as people think. The titans are going to drop off without haynesworth and the colts should cruise through the division. Vince Young will be the starter by year's end. Jaguars will underperform and Houston will be 7-9 or 8-8.

AFC West: Joketown. Give it to the Chargers. Watch the raiders, chiefs, and broncos flounders.

AFC North: Again Pittsburgh wins big time. Only question is whether the bengals play better and whether brady quinn starts or not. Ravens will not be as good.

AFC should look something like this: Indy, New England, San Diego, Pitt with your wild cards being something like The Jets and the Titans. Or some team. Again I think the wild cards are irrelevant in the the AFC this year.

NFC WEST: Ummmmm Cardinals? Seahawks, Rams Niners.
Cardinals win here, but Seattle could too. Both are average teams. But maybe Arizona turned a corner? No wild cards here.

NFC South: Also pretty brutal. New Orleans Scores, Tampa Bay will be underrated, Carolina has the talent to win the division, and the Falcolns have a tight end. A GREAT tight end.

NFC North: Bears are better this year. Packers are average this year. Detroit wins more than one game. But not more than 4. Vikings win the division. Everyone wishes they had favre except for chicago.

NFC: Eagles, Vikings, Carolina, Arizona Wild Card: Okay I would say Giants and Atlanta(or maybe Dallas) . But again Atlanta might win the division and Carolina takes the wild card. Or tampa bay sneaks the wild card. Or the redskins or the saints. Its really hard to say for seed #6.

Teams that can win a super bowl: Eagles, Giants, Dallas(Sigh), New England, Indy, San Diego, Pittsburgh. Seven teams. Many are good, but I wouldn't pick any of them to beat these teams.
Dallas is there because frankly their roster is just too good. But I don't trust the cowboys.

College Football is a joke. Florida is going to win. Against some Big 12 south team or maybe some loser ohio state or penn state goes undefeated and gets CRUSHED. Notre Dame sucks. But will be ranked and possibly go to a BCS bowl.
The PAC 10 shouldn't even be a division. I'm curious about Iowa Football this year. Todd needs to fill me in.

College basketball starts in march. Not before and not after. What happened to Iowa Basketball?

So I was feeling awful in July. I was basically seriously sick that entire month. On jello and gatorade. Now we are starting to recover. And I think I've turned the corner. This crohn's is a bastard.

I went to the dentist. And after the cleaning he said my teeth were perfectly healthy. This is after many years of neglect and vomiting. He was amazed actually after I told him. He was even happy with the spacing of my teeth due to the ability to prevent bacteria. No criticisms, nothing. Keep using the biotene he said. I walked out of there with a beaming smile and me thinking "fuck you nicole with your perfect teeth". Not in a mean way. Just in a contentment with my own imperfection.
It is comforting to know sometimes that striving for your own vanity is not in your own best interests. And I had always thought I was doing something wrong.

I really like my job. I really hate aberdeen. I really love washington.

There is a strong possibility of me moving to the seattle area or to vantucky(vancouver, wa) portland area or olympia in the next 3-4 months. (id put it at about 80%) I cannot move unless I've secured health care of course. My money is on Portland. But I could be wrong. Simply due to responses by employers.
But it will probably happen. I don't want to get into specifics as to why the move would happen, but you can read between the lines. Email me if you can't figure out why someone would move to an area with more money to be had.

Parents are well. They are going back to Maui in January. Iowa at the end of this month to see Rose(they felt like because of the wedding they didn't see her enough) So if you need to see Bob and Nora labor day they will be in Cedar Falls.
And they are talking France trip or Italy not sure. All in all good. New Windows in the house.
Stuff. More seafood too. Yum.

Nancy. In two weeks Nancy and I have been together for one year.
Last weekend we went to the fair which was basically our first date.
It was cute.
I spend five nights a week over at her apartment. The other two I spend catching up at my parents and such. I can't remember a day we haven't talked. I can't remember a day I haven't wanted to talk to her.
I can't remember a day we haven't laughed together.
I can remember a fight or two. But they are rare, and usually miscommunications, we find out that we were actually on the same page when we thought we were fighting.
All aspects are perhaps in a sense too good to be true.
In Matt's blog he talks about this ideal girl he's looking for.
Part of me wants to tell him that he isn't finding it because of him not finding what he loves in himself. or some such shit. But I don't know that.
But that woman is Nancy.
Intellectually, emotionally, physically, spiritually(if you believe in that nonsense).
She has it. Whatever that it is. I am constantly challenged by her, still get the same nervousness when I touch her hand. There is nothing sacred here. But nothing lost because nothing has been taken. Only given.
But more importantly.
I am that for her as well. And that is a huge responsibility. And perhaps the best one to have.

So we have decided to resign our lease for another year. And I am quite excited.

This blog will continue more often.
I will blog every week. Or at least twice a month. We are shooting for 4 times. Some shorter. Some longer.

it has been forever

2009-07-29T01:22:00.000-07:00

Nancy, and the artificial heart(band) makes me happy

Gutless democrats do not. We are not getting a public option kids.

Kevin is in.

Marissa is a cunt.

New doctor.

I work in Westport now.

I sense a big move in the next 6 months.

That is all.

on trips....

2009-06-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

I touch down on Wednesday.
If you are in Iowa City/Muscatine/Quad Cities. I will make time and see you.
My birthday was fun. I ate razor clams and got a kindle. Oh man the kindle is fucking awesome. And Nancy got me an electric blanket. That doesn't get too hot and can be left on all night. It is kinda like returning to the womb. Really really great gifts. Haven't gotten such great gifts, both unexpected and completely satisfying.

Interview for new job on tuesday. We'll see. Tons of jobs out there. Maybe I will get a new one?

I have been looking at tennis racquets. I'm not so sure about that one.

I weigh 156 lbs.

I think Bill Stark hates me....deservedly so.

I have a lot to say about the NBA finals. Star Trek. And LOST season 5. But I'm going to let that simmer for a bit.

On saving the boston celtics.

2009-04-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

Okay-I love this idea.
The Boston Celtics trade away Ray Allen to one of these three teams with a sign and trade.

-Chicago for Ben Gordon. Huge Expiring contract. Frees up a ton of money for chicago in 2010. LBJ/amare? Scariest team ever if that happened. Also solves there plethora of guards. Turns hinrich into a starter. Ray Allen as a good 6th man. If deng stays healthy this is a very good team. And they get a pretty good draft choice this year anyway.
Ben Gordon has great numbers. Can drop 30 whenver he wants AND is only 26. You basically get ray allen 6 years younger. I like this idea.

-Miami for Dwayne Wade. He is going to bolt in 2010. I know it. miami is horrible. They are only going to get worse. Beasley was a bust. O'neal is a joke. This reminds me of the shit cleveland pulled a few years ago with lebron. He carried the team. They need one player but they are saddled with beasley and oneal's contracts. The don't have the money to get wade mo williams. Again huge expiring contract could maybe throw wade money at someone who just wants money in 2010(chris bosh). And there is no way Miami would make this deal unless Wade just said. I'm not signing with you. They might want draft picks from boston too. Okay. They will try to convince Wade to stay. There is too much money in other huge media markets. He's dwayne fucking wade and ray allen is ray allen. No more to say.

-Atlanta for Joe Johnson. I don't think Joe Johnson is going to leave. I think Atlanta is going to re-sign him. SUCH A GOOD PASSER.

Trade ray allen for a draft pick to some shit team. Offer Ben Gordon max money. This year.

Let ray allen go in 2010. Offer Joe Johnson/Lebron James/Dwayne Wade max money. Or Chris Bosh/amare and play pierce at the off guard. Offer Brandon Roy a max deal and make portland sign it(they will).

I could see Lebron signing with Boston if they lose to the lakers. If they win. Lebron stays.

If they get any of those players. They become a better version of the spurs.
The next tony parker, super star 2 guard or power forward. Your duncan is kg of course. And pierce is the wily veteran that can take over a game(manu). Pierce gets to stay as long as he wants, and can take the mle later on in his career. And if you pick up bosh/amare. You can let KG go after he declines. But he will resign with boston because frankly they can win. It is a perfect storm. Get rid of the declining Allen now if at all possible. The WORST thing they could do is resign Allen. Truthfully is there really that much emotional connection with Ray Ray for Boston. Sure the run was great. But he is aging. And it shows. So is pierce and kg. But they are soul. In more ways than one. Allen can shoot. Can't really guard, smart player. Let us not forget that they have good bigs as well too.

I hope Grant calls danny ainge on this one.
You get to make a few more title runs right now. And you could potentially have a team that is poised for a dynasty.

the details

2009-04-12T20:12:00.000-07:00

Wed June 17th I fly into moline. long day don't count on hanging out.
Saturday june 20th is wedding of rose and dave. Don't count on hanging out other than possibly late that night.
Monday June 22nd I fly out. Don't count on hanging out.

So thursday-friday and possibly Sunday. Nancy and I will be in Muscatine and most of the time ready for your company.

We will work it out. We have time. Haven't booked a room yet. I'll let you know as it become available.

I FUCKING love billy bob thorton

2009-04-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

Because he's right. And post-modern hipster fuckers are just sad because they are told to be by their website. Oh man. I've never been so happy about something in a long time. Kidding. But it was great.

kenobi was on the council, was a master. Not complicated.

2009-04-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

I forgot to explain to people.
Rose my sister is getting married on the 20th. In Muscatine.
So that is the reason for me being in Iowa. I have no guarantees of being in Iowa City, or anywhere else in Iowa. Airports possibly. See what I can do.

Also I am going to see the tanks twice this week. Once in Olympia and the other time in Portland.
Nancy is going with me to Portland. I plan on eating sushi.
She is buying a Subaru Forrester. It is a nice car.

I NEED to talk to Todd.
I weigh 144 lbs.

that is all.

Some television shows that are not pissing me off

2009-04-01T00:05:00.000-07:00

I'll be in Iowa sometimes around the 20th of June. Before that most likely. Nancy is coming too.
I want to see everyone. I'm not sure if I'll have access to a car. So I may be stuck in Muscatine. Since 3 of my friends are there and another few can get there fairly easily I would think maybe a convergence would be agreeable somewhere. Dori is engaged so god only knows how busy she is and its a long drive for her. So I am giving her an excuse, the rest of you are expected.

I'm watching season one of Big Love. I really like it.
Almost done with the Wire. I really like that too.
I'm on a new drug. It is expensive. But will probably help with the bones. Daily injections.
Yay. Possible Bone Cancer caused by said drug. Yay!
Going to the tanks show in the area next week. Excited to see Kevin.

David Letterman is STILL the funniest man on earth.

The paul rudd, seth rogen, insert jackass here has got to slow down. They make me chuckle sometimes, but...
It is getting outta hand.

Remember when it was Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson? Remember that? We don't want that to repeat again do we?

WHAT A BUNCH OF FRAKKING BULLSHIT

2009-03-31T23:19:00.000-07:00

That is the last time I will ever say frak.
If you haven't watched battlestar yet and don't want spoilers stop reading. If you don't care about good ol bsg you can stop reading too. I'll post another blog with non-bsg ramblings.

She held me while my jaw was dropped. I was sitting there in the dark, and Nancy just knew. So she gave me a hug. We didn't say anything for five minutes.

And then I said it.

WHAT IN THE FUCK?

How on earth do you fuck up a show in 4 episodes?
How?
Why?

It sucked. BIG TIME.

Let us start from the beginning.

Battlestar Galactica is about characters and situations.
You can resolve those situations in new and interesting ways.
Thus is a television show.
But if you say a show is ending, you NEED to resolve issues in ways that make sense.
In ways that don't seem so put together at the last minute.
You need to plan. Especially when you PURPOSELY end the show.
Battlestar wasn't canceled. But it might as well have been.
I felt just as empty as the end of Deadwood season 3. More even.
Because they had the chance.
They really did.
Best Show Ever.
And they fucked it all up.

Instead I have no interest to watch anymore battlestar galactica. Not ever. Not the prequel "the plan" not caprica. Nothing. I don't want to see any of it. Why? Because I know where it ends up.
And I am not fucking happy. Even retards that bitched and moaned about Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones, have to agree that Lucas put all the pieces together in Revenge of the Sith in a way that from just a pure narrative perspective is very satisfying.

I have not started LOST this year because I felt last year they were grasping at straws. I may need to start again.
I felt the same way in Season 4.5.

Okay.
Let us start with the obvious fault.

The final five became a gimmick. Because they held no real importance whatsoever by the end of the show.
All of season 3 we worry about these final five. They are revealed. It is a big deal. A huge one.
Heartbreaking sometimes.
And they help us find earth. And earth sucks. And then we don't really need to care. They could die. It doesn't matter. Instead we get to watch laura dating at caprica, and adama at a strip club.
Seriously.
We see 3 seconds of Galen on earth, and Saul.
And then they get to put their hands in the goo and give ressurection to cavil.
We would think that if putting their hands in the shit box gives them their memories to put together the technology, that they would also remember everything from the past.
NOPE just a reason for galen to kill tory.
Did we also know that tory and galen were engaged 2k years ago? Ever see tory or galen in the past? No. But guess what we know. Yeah we do. In one sentence.
SHOW don't tell.
Does it matter. So a perfect opportunity for us to get more insight in our final five.
Instead. It all goes to shit and in the most ridiculous moment cavil shoots himself.
No more final five needed! Solved.
Remember d'anna pretty important right? She knew the final five had become the defacto leader of the cylons? She'll just stay on bad earth huh? The only one of her kind. Funny. Wow.
What about leoben? Seemed to know a ton about kara's destiny. Get to earth. He gets stupid and scared. Doesn't seem consistent. Maybe because we didn't know what we were doing in the first place? Hybrid? No need for hybrid. Only important in those other seasons.
Make Sam the hybrid!
What about the older centurions? The colony? Nope no need to understand that, or the final five's relation to them other than Ellen blabbing and sam's nonsense. But why not put a flashback of Saul and Ellen getting drunk and Sam talking about a pyramid game!
Wow. Great closure.
So apparently the opera house was CIC. They put all the characters in the room.
And on top of it six and gaius had no need to protect the child.
Oh Gaius said a monologue to Cavil. Problem solved child protected. And then. Gaius' importance, Six? None. They are off the hook. God doesn't need them anymore. So says their respective angels.
You did a good job up to this point. Angels say. Wasn't GAIUS almost the chosen one? No? Oh okay.
So the final five hear a song. It happens to be Bob Dylan. This song in conjunction with Kara's angel ship finds the coordinate to earth. Earth is a wasteland.
Then kara thinks about her dad teaching her bob dylan on piano. Hera had the notes of course.
And she jumped the notes of the battlestar to alternate earth. Because we needed to solve the mystery of the song AGAIN.
And she was the harbinger of death. What death. Death of cylons? Humans? She's done that.
But this was a line repeated. Her death?
Harbinger of death and humanity to its end does not foreshadow greener pastures does it.
In fact we had two angels as gaius said. Kara and the one he saw. Kara is dead. And she disappears once they get to earth by way of her the second time. Does something seem repetitive. All this has happened before and all this will happen again. But within the same 3 months? The same 8 episodes? really? Seems like they didn't really know what they were doing doesn't it?
Neither seemed to know what they were supposed to do once they decide to tie this together.
Remember Daniel? Apparently Sam mentioned him. He was the 6th cylon.
Did we see him? Nope. Way to throw that out there.
Helo gets shot in the leg, probably going to bleed out. Nope. Just fine. Flesh wound.
Battlestar on a suicide run? No fucking way. Itll get you to earth.
The fact of the matter is that the show could have ended with beautiful earth in seaon 4.0. A few more episodes.
Any major characters die?
Cavil? Bad guy had to die. Bad cylons. Boomer. Again bad cylon had to die.
Gaeta and Zarek bad guys had to die.
Kara? Dies comes back. Poof! Actually the coolest thing yet completely unexplained.
Dee? Shoots herself. Neat actually.
Courage to kill anyone who isn't already terminal? None.
150k years later Hera is the shape of things to come. LUCY! Our ancestor is a cylon-human hybrid. Yay. All in god's plan. Wow. Thank you god. For fucking a show.
But guess what? We have robots now. ooooh sinister because battlestar was always about the evils of technology.
Actually it wasn't.

Seems like bullshit.
Was bullshit.

The ending. GOD DOES EVERYTHING. So we don't really need to explain thing we started but are too gutless to figure out ourselves and finish.

Infuriating that a show of such high intelligence, nuance of characters, morality, and sociological issues. Decides at the end to chalk it up to divine intervention. Which was fun because you saw it unfold upon Gaius. But in this respect, nothing was revealed, nothing explained. It just decided to leave in the middle of the night.

So fuck you battlestar galactica. All you had to do was watch every episode up to them finding earth. And then say "okay how do we resolve all these plotlines in edgy ways"
Instead, I feel like l. ron hubbard wrote this pile of shit.

Someone had the courage to say this show needs to have an ending. I was amazed that they decided to do that at the height of its popularity. But no one had the courage to say "lets get this right before it ends".

And so part of me is left

wanting

I fucking hate Johnny Depp

2009-03-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

but I LOVE michael mann....seriously. Is there anything this motherfucker can't do?
Dillinger with digital handycams? Seriously? WOW. I'm excited about a movie. FUCKING EXCITED.
I saw the trailer and was just blown away by the work. And I was like who in the fuck is directing these shots?
And then at the end it said directed by mr miami vice himself.
He is technically the greatest american director of all time.
If you want it all to come together in ways you hadn't thought of before you go for Marty.
If you want child-like spectacle you go for Spielberg.
If you want shit to blow up with no thought involved you hire Michael Bay. Thought too? Cameron.
If you want the best special effects you go for Lucas' cabal.
You want a poem you go for Malick.
If you want witty, sad, and funny you go for Payne.
If you want flat out original you go for the Bros. Cohen.
Mindfuck? David Lynch/Cronenberg.
Overblown windbag? Oliver Stone.

No where oh where will PT Anderson end up. He's the enigma and the most likely to end up in this group. Soderberg at one time was on his way, but has fallen off, same goes for M. Night.
I think PT will end up taking the next scorsese slot. Perhaps not as influential or as good, but the merging of film and music there are definite parallels. I think I was too hard on him early in life for imitating scorcese in many ways.
But if you are going to copy someone, not a bad idea.

I love you guys. I do.

IT ENDS TONIGHT. BSG. I'm freaking out having a mild panic attack. Won't watch it until tomorrow. I hope I'm happy. I'm really worried.

HURRAY FOR DORI GETTING MARRIED! I called it. I should get credit. Hopefully she doesn't do something dumb and get married in Israel.
She told me where she was going to get married. I hope it is still there.

I'm going to say it right now...and let me be clear

2009-03-16T01:09:00.000-07:00

WORST FUCKING MOVIE OF ALL TIME. I MEAN SERIOUSLY I'VE NEVER HAD TO SIT THROUGH A MOVIE THAT SUCKED MORE IN MY LIFE.

EVER.

WHAT AN UTTER PIECE OF SHIT. COMPLETELY AND TOTALLY. SHIT.

my parents just said there was a kaiten sushi place in olympia

2009-03-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

i almost came in my pants.

and here we go

2009-03-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

Okay so lets start out with the easy pickings.

Matt's blog is fucking hilarious. He is fucking hilarious.
He has some self destructive tendencies. He spends his money too frivolously, he gives far too much emotional power to his girlfriends. But other than that he is fine.
I would like him to get his ass on a budget once he gets out of whack. Seriously. Get quickbooks, I don't care. Just get on a budget. And then get back out here.
He got me on game of thrones, and is always a good time, even when he's pissed off or sad.

Liz sucks. Marry Cahak.

Andrea sucks too. And she's fat.

Cindy Lin is a fucking whore. And she's dumber than me.
Hear that Bill Stark? I know at least 6 people smarter than her. AT LEAST. Her husband is also a shitbird.
And she's not hot. Seriously I have no idea why Jess even lets you talk to her.

Sawhawk needs to stop it with the Robocop. Seriously. Haven't we learned enough from relaunches and sequels?

Nicole. Oh Nicole. So very smart.
So very very smart.
And so very very silly about things.
Boy things.
Stupid boy things.
I'm not against this new character she's with. But he has kids. I'm not sure she's into kids? But she may change. That is totally her call and I respect it.
I am against her not getting a degree sometime in the near future. Same goes for Kevdong and Francis.

I want Kevin to tone it down by about 15%. And Kate to not rip his chest out. Which I think isn't going to happen, but you never know.

I want someone to punch Owen in the nuts. Grant actually should do it.

I hate facebook. I really do.

I want Shawn Reed to have like 3 bastards with 17 year old girls.

I want Nate Teed to run for congress one day.

I want Sam to either realize its not going to happen in Des Moines and move.
Or start having puppies with fanboy.

I feel sorry most days for Todd. I do. In more ways than one. He deserves better. In more ways than one.

I want Chris to date Shawn's ex.

I want Bill Stark to lose the muffin top. And his brother to be well.

I want ggj to be happy most days. If I even had a clue on how to achieve that I would tell him in an instant. I don't. Kevin seems to know how to start...its probably up to you how to finish. White aluminum is not a first step. Neither is starbury.

I want Dori to get married. I mean really, why can't you ask him? Are we at like 3 years now? He gave up his bachelor pad making macaroni dolls or whatever the hell he does. He has a straight job, and you two live in a house. Laughing and cornholing with cats.
This seems like marriage material to me.

I want Kathleen to apologize to Kevin. She owes him one. And the whole situation with those two is fucking bullshit.
Look at this logically.

Kathleen dates Thomas.
Kevin is friends with Kathleen and Thomas.
Kathleen and Thomas break up.
Kevin is still friends.
Kathleen sleeps with Tylerstolebensgamesfuckstick.
Thomas breaks Tylersstolebensgamesfuckstick's jaw.
Kevin decides to take a breather from talking to Kathleen and Thomas and fuckstick and everyone.
Kevin moves to texas.
Kevin goes crazytrain.
Kathleen starts to talk with Kevin again.
Kathleen and Kevin get in fight specifically about said past events.
Kathleen and Thomas are dating again.

See the problem here?
You have an untreated bipolar person who went off the rail 2 or so years ago.
You have a person who was judged in all sorts of ways about her behavior way back in the day.
And so this person is holding a grudge against the crazy lead singer of the tanks for "not talking to her" and deciding it was because of her. When in the actually case, it was because he WAS CRAZY. Get it?
And so what you could say is that is no excuse. No it isn't.
But Thomas is perfectly sane and well if we can forgive him for his misdeeds (of which he has many as told to me back in the day). I see no reason for Kathleen not to apologize.
Unless....
she is terrified of his judgment.
And it is terrifying sometimes.
So here's the truth.
Maybe Kevin pissed Kathleen off. And perhaps people change and deserve second chances.
Kevin never meant any ill will towards Kathleen as long as I can remember.

I also don't need to be reminded that bipolar does not equal crazy. I get the nuances and such. Lets just keep this simple for our sakes.

I miss Nei.

fuck you too part one....

2009-03-03T23:35:00.000-08:00

This blog may come in multiple parts. Or I may finish it tonight. Not entirely sure. I think I may be getting sick. Cold sick. So nyquil may be in the works while I'm typing.

The kindle 2 is bad fucking ass. I mean fucking sweet. However, unless I can download illegal ebooks on it I don't want one. Nancy has one and it is fucking sweet. I was reading a Feast for Crows on it and it felt like reading a real book.

I am also a proponent for the DS and the PSP. Okay so I'm playing Phatasy Star II in my bed. Sure I know I can download this shit on the wii, or my computer with a wireless controller. But this is in my hand in bed. And Nei is fucking up some people.
Or altered beast, golden axe 1-3. I'm serious this is good shit.
Same thing with the Kindle. I imagined not having to turn a page and therefor could just prop the thing up and while laying down.

Ahhh decadence.

Back to libraries. I fucking hate books on the SECRET UNTOLD STORY OF SAID BATTLE, EVENT of WWII. In fact I'm sick of WWII buffs. WWII shit. All of it.
Not only was it not the greatest war or generation. It was combat/strategy/battlefield wise fairly useless and uninteresting. I can't wait until these people start dying off. Gary not included of course.
I will never buy a book on Iraq/Afghanistan/Bush. Why? A lot of these people cheered on the war and now write books on the "Failures". Fuck you too.
Journalism sucks. Your blogs suck(I get the irony) and just because you were on wings, or are part of some thinktank. Doesn't mean you should get to fuck around with policy. Seriously if you read the huffingtonpost or any of those blogs titled "how to fix america"
Its seriously tuesday morning quarterbacking. Its horseshit. I'm do it all the time. But I don't purport to actually think I should actually be in such a position.
I mean people on these blogs actually think they could do it better. And maybe they could.
But they are throwing stones. From a very very safe spot.

So lets enter the hypocrite arena.

Obama could have one term.
There I said it.
It won't be his fault. This economy may overwhelm him.
Or he may be a two term because it gets WAY worse. And well at least he'll spend on social programs.
He just needs to get health care done by 2010.
We are basically staring at class warfare right square in the eye.
You have too many poor people without shitty jobs.
And you have too many smart people without crappy to average jobs.
And you have way rich people becoming less rich.
So the theory is:
You educate people and raise their education.
Create high paying jobs. Which means you spend money on shit.
But the high paying jobs are connected to technology, energy, education, healthcare.
Ummmm.
Ok. Other than words Dr. and tenure. Those don't seem like avenues for white collar work...
Maybe I'm wrong. But I think when we talk about the return of the manufacturing capacity and infrastructure in america. GREEN JOBS!!!!!!!!
Those are hot sweaty jobs.
And the theory is that those people don't need to go to college.
And then because those uneducated fucks spend their money.
Those of us with degrees go to the service industries or educational institutions to provide services to said fucks and their children.
All I'm saying.
Is that could take years.
Many years.
All the while, you have more and more people needing/wanting to retire that can't or will. Medical costs for said people. And a glut of college grads not being able to find jobs because the recently laid off college grads with 3-15 years of experience taking those jobs.
Ummmm........
Like I said.
This could take years.
Who the fuck would have thought that Hillary Clinton has one of the easiest jobs in the cabinet?

String Theory is bullshit. Like I said on grant's blog. Can I prove it wrong?
Fuck no. Not smart enough about that.
But I know a fun idea when I hear one.
And this one is WAAAAAAAAAAY too much fun.
I've been saying this for 5 years now though.

So one day I had to drive Nancy home. We were coming back from ikea and we were both fucking sick and tired. And she wanted some food, we drove through taco bell.
I sneered and wasn't going to eat anyway but needed caffeine as I was exhausted from our trip. She got her burrito/glop and I saw the menu and said I'll take a medium mtn dew. They asked if I wanted regular or baja. I decided to live a little and ordered baja.
Took a sip.
And
oh my god. I said to myself.
It was incredible.
I don't know how to describe it.
But it was great. Easily the best dew variation and possibly better than the original. It has been a long time since I've had a lot of pop.
And only in taco bell.
What the fuck...
I would say this. It is at least worth a trip just for the soda.
I could be wrong.
But we are off that now.

The NBA.

First and foremost.
The Celtics are the team to beat until they lose.
The lakers are the best team and Cleveland is probably the best in the east.
But the Celtics are defending the trophy. So they get priority. This isn't an every other year spurs team.

I still see an epic 7 game series with the lakers beating the cavaliers.
LeBron is MVP.

BSG has three episodes left. I'm a little sad. Just started Season 4 of the wire. Fun show. Watchmen is going to suck.

Nancy and I went on vacation together at Cannon Beach, OR.
A nice beach town. Beautiful views. Lots of watching dogs cause trouble. It was an anniversary thing. And a good one.
On the day of the valentine Nancy and I made each other the same card.
Choo-choo chose from the simpson's. We took different approaches.
Nancy and I are so compatible it is kinda scary.
In all aspects there are no flaws that I can find. Whatsoever. You can chalk it up to honeymoon, only six months, or something of that nature. Doesn't really matter.
We love to hang out. But both of us are really big on time alone. And we make an effort at that, many times while in the same room. And this is a huge plus, on top of her being more intelligent and perhaps funnier than me. We are never bored. Or when we are it is together and usually ends with us laughing.
The fact is I have never been more comfortable being me around anyone I have ever met.
And that it has happened so soon is remarkable.
The girlish giggle stuff is great too.
I have spent the last 5 months trying to figure out how to fuck this whole thing up, and I can't. Or imagine how it could.
I can't see it.

Dow below 6000? Buy some Ford! Some intel!

Seriously what are the movies this summer?

Star Trek Relaunch?
Wolverine?
Da Vinci Code 2?
Terminator 4? No arnold....
transformers 2?
Harry potter whatever the fuck
G.I. Joe?
Some apatow shite.

Comic book/Toy line movies and sequels. And unimportant sequels.
Seriously.
Horror Remakes.
What in the fuck.

I could see myself going to Star Trek out of boredom with my parents. And maybe Terminator 4 if the reviews were alright. I mean flying hks are awesome.
But I have hit my limit on comic book movies. Seriously.
I mean I'm sure a Black Panther movie is coming soon. Or how about spawn 3?
That sounds racist.
Thor? Jesus fuck. Can't wait for fantastic 4 4.

So the levy vote failed in the library. Funny how in the worst economic times the library decided to push a levy lid for a vote to raise property taxes. So brilliant.
At first I was really excited that the budget changes were going to be more open to public and staff and then I realized the just baked the cake with administrators. So I say fuck it and now keep my head down and do my job. My mouth stays shut. Let them fuck it up on their own.
Heads will roll. I may lose my job at the end of this year and my promotion is almost certainly not going to happen. There will be bumping people and I am actually ahead of quite a few people. Thank god for seniority. So on the bright side I will probably still have a paying job and healthcare and food and such. But I fear this place is not a path for a career for the foreseeable future. But I am guessing this is true many places.

Grant has a macbook.

I will speak more to that on a later date.
And about all of you folks.
All of you.
I have much to say. About a great many things.
Some of you may take it poorly.

night.

there is an epic blog coming....but first anniversary

2009-02-26T16:17:00.001-08:00

epic on many fronts. Some people will be upset. Others entertained. None will be bored.
But that is not what is happening right now. What is happening is I am going on vacation with Nancy. To the place below. 6 months and counting today...

after this. Blog. BIG...

Just in case you were wondering...

2009-01-31T22:39:00.000-08:00

Arizona Cardinals by 10 points.

Though I want my mother's hometown Steelers to win. Since PA is solid blue and AZ is a red state.

If you are up at 3:30et. Go onto espn2 for the two best tennis players I've ever seen.

The clock is ticking

2009-01-20T17:44:00.000-08:00

First things first.

Bye bye global gag rule.

Fix the economy?

Health Care for All?

He's the one right?

I want these things to happen. But I won't hesitate to throw this man to the wolves if he squanders his opportunity.

Dance it up assholes. You have way too much work to do.

On libraries....

2009-01-06T21:44:00.000-08:00

Okay. I need to get my bitching about libraries out of the way.

Here are a few things:
1.) You don't ever need to read about Tesla.
2.) You don't need to read about Alchemy.
Seriously you hipster bitches get over it. I am fucking sick of shelving shit about Tesla and am sick of picking it out.
Another thing. I hate knitting books. I hate books from Rachel Ray. I fucking hate books about mental disorders.
One don't knit.
Two buy frozen dinners.
Three go to a doctor. A DOCTOR. SEE. IT MEANS THEY KNOW MORE ABOUT YOUR DISEASE THAN YOU. THAT IS WHY THEY ARE CALLED DOCTORS. If I have to get one more book about NATURAL Cures/Herbs/curing yourself/not vaccinating. When I see people talk about that shit I want to fucking punch them in the face.
Seriously I hope your kid does become autistic. Better than him spreading measles.

3.) I hate books about Atheism. What in the fuck. You don't believe in god? Good for you. Why do you need to read a 350-500 page book on why god sucks? Or why churches suck? Duh.
4.) I hate books about homeschooling. And homeschooling kids and their parents.
5.) I hate hate hate children's books. I'm not talking nancy drew. Those are juvenile books. I mean fucking Dr. Seuss cat in the mother fucking curious george bullshit. And if you go oh man "where the wild things are" you are a fucking tard.
These are comic books. And people check out 300 of them. Read them in two days and return 300 of them. Fucking incredible. Why can't children's books be collected in huge tomes? Like put every fucking curious george book in one collection.
Or why can't we just read them Winnie the Pooh or Wind in the Willows. Or Harry Potter even? They'll catch up eventually.
Why do I have to read Katie Couric's latest piece of shit that is 3 pages long about pooping to my developmentally retarded 2 year old.
Fuck you kids.

I hate the concept of vegan. I really do.
I am totally okay with never eating a piece of poultry/red meat/hell even fresh seafood and dairy.
But egg whites?
No.
I'm sorry.
Do you know how good egg whites are? Nothing even comes close to that particular protein. NOTHING. WHEY maybe, but lets just assume we don't want to eat dairy? Or can't tolerate it.
Or how fundamentally amazing on most levels purified fish oil is? They don't have mercury/pcbs all that shit. Nothing. Just oil.
If your response is FLAX OIL, or any protein isolate. You are fucking full of shit.
And cheese and seafood just tastes incredible. And people would say the same about red meat, but I disagree.

I understand that some of you may be vegans. Or subscribe to said lifestyle.
And there are some serious points to be made about our pork/poultry/beef production.
And the sustainability of certain seafood harvesting and mercury levels.

I rarely use google. However frequently use Gmail. Love Gmail. Could give a shit about google.
I still despise all apple products. And said company. Fuck you grant get a pc.

Rarely check facebook. Sorry I don't.

Rarely talk to you people. I should more. I'm sorry. I am trying to balance work with free time with Nancy. Not there yet.

I like the Wire. I am through season 2. I am not amazed. My jaw is not on the floor. I really enjoy it. But it doesn't hold a candle to deadwood/BSG. I plan on finishing it. Arrested development is very very funny. Greatest show ever? Greatest comedy ever?
Please.

The movie Twilight is an absolute fucking joke. I mean he's not hot.
He's not hot.
He's not hot.
He's not even cute.
I wouldn't fuck him.
Ben you're not gay.
But I know what it hot. Be it boy or girl.
He's not hot.
She wants him to fuck er I mean bite her.
This is all Mormon propaganda bullshit. About not doing it. Because he'll become enraged and she'll be poisoned. And the family of good vampires.
HUGE FAMILY.
But let us forget all that. And just talk about the terrible acting, horrific plot twists, and soundtrack that made me want to throw up. I loved watching it because Nancy and I sat there laughing our asses off making fun of it. It is so bad it is fun.
I know she has 3 kids. But I'm really wondering if she's ever fucked. I have no idea how mormons fuck. But apparently their writers don't get it.
I want Kevin and Grant to go to twilight SO THE FUCK BAD.

I don't check Kathleen or Dori's blogs. Or Kevin's. If any of you are posting regularly let me know.
Grant write more.
Matt don't you ever stop. I don't talk to any of you enough. I'm a shitty friend. But I will read your blog if you post. I will and I do. And I love them.

The holiday haul:
Grinch boxers/sleep pants/garmin super nuvi(seriously this fucking thing means I don't have to even use my mp3 player in my car), super mario galaxy, two battlestar galactica t-shirts from nancy. Some gift certificates. And an engraved space pen from nancy.

The space pen. Never runs out of ink. Upside down, under water space pen.
The engraving:
"Its an abundant universe"
PERFECT.

Nancy got a Sunrise clock and Hillary Clinton's auto.
Of course the book was a gag. She didn't get it for about 20 minutes. Her face was totally priceless. Trying to fight a panic attack. It was great. She loved her gifts.

I expect the giants in the super bowl, but wouldn't be at all surprised if Carolina beats them at home.
I expect Pittsburgh to beat San Diego, Baltimore to beat the titans. And Bmore getting fucked by Pitt.
And I think the Super Bowl is a tossup is two of the top four teams make it.

So the rankings of teams in the playoffs.
1a.) Steelers
1b.) Giants
3.) Titans
4.) Panthers
5.) Ravens
6.) Chargers
7.) Eagles
8.) Cardinals

No idea on college basketball. I wonder how Iowa is doing?

Football: Florida should pisspound Oklahoma. But I may be underestimating the Big 12. Iowa ended up very well with a great bowl win and will end the season in the top 25. Good news for Iowa football going forward. Barring Ferentz leaving for Cleveland.

Nba: This is the year Lebron wins an MVP. This is the year they beat the celtics in seven. And This is the year Kobe wins without Shaq. There are three teams in this league and a plethora of really good teams.
But three teams. And as it should be. You have the lakers and the celtics and the second coming of basketball Christ(jordan lbj is better talent wise, same for kobe)
I need to watch the NBA more. This might be the best it has ever been.
Emerging Dwight Howard and orlando. Swan Songs for the spurs/pistons/mavs/suns. Always teasing Houston and Denver teams. CP3. Scrappy Utah. Young Trailblazers and Hawks.

Politics. Roland Burris should be seated in the Senate. Al Franken should not until court battle is over. Both should be senators, I have a feeling only the white one will. This is where the law comes in. Funny how people who make the law ignore it?
Perfect pick for CIA.
Obama is really starting to intrigue me. He seems to be Clinton 2.0. Except he doesn't have to stare down an empowered Republican Juggernaut. He has a hill to climb, but with his cabinet and a congress he should be up for the job. Let us hope.
Very curious as to his statements on Israel/Gaza on the 20th.
I hate everything Caroline Kennedy stands for. No I don't, but there are more qualified and feisty women in new york. Instead of a daughter of an icon making a power grab. Sadly I think she might be appointed.
Very disappointed.

I get to see Nancy Seattle this weekend. Very excited. Very excited.
The neighborhoods, the hidden gems, the video store sent from heaven. New digital camera promises many pictures.

Nancy is great. She loves Battlestar(she asked to watch it). And I handed her Game of Thrones. I didn't force it down her throat. She mentioned drunk that she had read Wheel of Time when she was 16 and liked it and she wanted book crack like that.
So I gave her some GRR Martin.
She keeps saying "this is REALLY good"
Grant read a Game of Thrones. Seriously.
Things with Nancy are great. It has been 4 months now. Kevin gets all the credit in the world for pushing this. I probably would have just wimped around for months and screwed it up.
I'll try and update this blog every month. With girlfriend updates.

"do you think this would be better if we were twins?"

I let you figure out when she said that, and why, and in what context. It involved me laughing so hard I cried, her too. She was halfway through A game of thrones at the time. Bran had already made his big jump.
Grant that is reason enough to read it. Ask Matt he will hook you up.

No update on the job yet. Levy vote in feb. If that passes multiple positions will open up. And I should get promotions of some sort.

off to bed. till after the vote....

Okay so theres a story of a burnt toast.....

2008-12-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

I mean. What am I to say about that? Is this some anti suicide kids cartoon?

Happy Thanksgiving everyone...

2008-11-27T19:10:00.000-08:00

I want to puke I'm so fucking full. Bill and Jess are coming down tomorrow.

If you haven't seen Slumdog Millionaire and you have the ability by all means run to it. Danny Boyle fails many times, but he's ALWAYS interesting.

Nancy and I had THE ARGUMENT. We spent two hours going over it. See below for details.
With less swearing and more laughing.

Get the latest news satire and funny videos at 236.com.

I've decided Clone Wars is 30 minutes of perfection for me at least

2008-11-20T19:43:00.000-08:00

Facebook is way way too much social networking for me. I'll keep it, and check it once a week or something to see what you you fellas are up to. But besides that I'm just totally lost on there.

Housesitting cats till the 30th. So I may be out of touch for most of the time. Although I plan on having a marathon conversation with Mr. Koppes post tour.
A mild bitch about the housesat.

"hi im leaving friday morning at 4am. Could you come over anyway this evening and stay with the boys in the morning and so I can see how Max responds to you?"
"So you want me to sleep in the apartment with you and wake up at 4am four hours before I need to get up?"
"Yes"
"Sure"

Ask grant about one of his last Minneapolis experiences.

I've been wanting to see Rachel Getting Married in the worst way. But somehow I missed it, and now am filled with Twilight nonsense everywhere. And theaters counts now dwindling for fake vampire shit.
Speaking of Vampires. True Blood is addictive. The show ends this week.

I'm curious if Nicole has moved into her house yet. And if she has more detailed pictures.

I need to email Kathleen. That is all there is to it. I miss her. Quite a bit. Because I've lost touch with her the most I think of you bastards.

No updates on the job. Though I did spring quite a bit of money for new shirt/tie combo. Shirts built from the ground up are very expensive apparently.

Everything else is fine. Nothing new to report.

Other than the new star wars mmorpg The Old Republic might get me hooked in the world of monthly fees for gaming.

So fucking apparently...

2008-11-11T10:37:00.000-08:00

I have a facebook account. I'm not surprised. I think I made it in march of 2007.
I am guessing from my vague recollection that Cahak was bugging the shit outta me.
So I cracked. Signed up. And never added cahak.
Yesterday after True Blood, Nancy and I were talking about Internet presence and how she basically has none. I explained that I had a blog, but it really wasn't a diary, but more along the lines of a crile entertainment delivery system.
So I saw in my junkmail folder that I had an email from Keaton to add me to facebook. And I was in shock. I didn't know I had one.
So I logged in added him, and cahak, and everyone else who wants me as their friend. And then decided who would I like to see online. And I could only think of six names.
Grant, Dori, Crile, Francis, Nicole, Kathleen, and Kevin. By process of knowing his absolute total domination of all things Grant. I added him, looked at his friends and added most of those people. Matt is blogging so that is fine. Kevin calls a lot.
Nicole and Kathleen I seem to have lost touch with. It is probably my fault. Though I check Kathleen's photos every day.

I have today off. I went in at 9:30am yesterday to find out about Veterans' day.
No idea. like an early birthday.

So my list of things to do is long.
I need to make yogurt, bread, shower/shave, do laundry, give louie his comfortis, bathe louie and steinman, call my health care company and that is about it. Read.
Steinman is a kitten that was run over by a car. The owners couldn't pay for the surgery and wanted to euthanize. So Nancy had them sign it over and performed her first fracture surgery. He's totally recovered and a ball of fun living in my house. At least until the Dec. 1st. As that is when my parents say he must go. But I think he's growing on them. So we'll see.
But he is so sweet. I mean kittens are fucking adorable. He plays, and wants human attention a lot. But not a lap cat either.

A few things.

I have been watching Hbo's true blood with Margot and Nancy. It is actually a really interesting show. Good it is not. But fun to be with people sometimes.

Obama's cabinet looks to be incredible. Like Clinton's cabinet. And 60 is still in the cards for the senate.

The Sarah Connor Chronicles is a very very good show. As is Clone Wars. Both know their form and both do it very well.

I am going to Nine Inch Nails next month. Probably alone(as nancy has to work the next day). This has been long overdue.

I made a dinner reservation for my parents and I for thanksgiving. Fuck cooking.

My health is really good. There are some flaws to be sure. But let us just say I am feeling great.

I really like Matt Francis' blogs. Blog more matt, post your writing. Just rip it to shreds. Don't ever stop.

The end of last month. Todd, Chris, Nancy and I went to Portland. We saw some waterfalls, drank beer and went on a ridiculous ghost tour.
But I had fun. Although Sunday had some awkward moments with Todd, it generally went well.

Nancy and I have been dating for the past two months now. Everything is great, she is great. Whether or not we are still in the "honeymoon phase" I cannot say.
No problems to report. The beauty is that we both understand we are way too neurotic, and often crazy. So instead of what should lead normally lead to awkwardness, arguments, and misunderstanding, instead leads to us laughing uncontrollably. We have an almost identical sense of humor. Other than she swears by Arrested Development and I don't.
We are very good for each other to this point.

I saw Bill during the Chris/Todd visit. Good to see him. Although I am steadfast in my refusal to see him until he comes down to see me.

My boss is retiring in January. There is a possibility I could get his job.
Everyone is encouraging me to go for it in the library save 4 people. Those four include two co-workers that potentially want the job and would make great bosses.
And the two people that would do the hiring. Everyone else including the retiring employer is pushing for me to go after it.
I will. There are three scenarios that come out of this.
I get the job. I now have a real job. Probably an ideal job. With everything. And a major amount of money. So the grown up phase totally kicks in.
One of the two co-workers gets the job, and I get their job. This means a significant raise and a job that would suit my lifestyle and provide some sort of financial stability.
Not one of use three get the job. This is the worst case scenario from an ambitious standpoint. However I have made the decision that if it does happen, I will only work Tues-Fri. So as to provide more free time. It just isn't worth it to work five days a week with no light at the end of the tunnel.
I have suggested to both of the co-workers that they should apply for the position.
I will keep you updated. I feel like I am in a good position no matter how this works out.
I had been wanting his job(because he does great work) a few years down the line, however I didn't expect it to come this soon. I am completely qualified says everyone.

so add me on facebook. I'll never post anything there, or a picture or anything. But If you wish me to view your neat pictures and such, I will for sure look at them.

Nothing else is going on. God bless those fucking veterans.

The bitch is not dead yet...

2008-11-05T14:15:00.000-08:00

The Goals:

Goal One: President Not Bush's third term=Done. Sorry kids, I didn't cry. Not one bit. This was a hate fuck. And I couldn't be happier.
Goal Two: 60 vote majority in Senate=Still up for grabs. But we won't know until Alaska, Oregon, and Minnesota are called. And then you have to wait until Dec. 2nd for Georgia.
Goal Three: Chris Gregoire as Governor=Done and Done.
Goal Four: Assisted Suicide law: It passed.

So far things are going very well. I know the senate is a pipe dream. Although if Franken wins and Stevens loses the blow to get to 60 will be lessened.

Why do I give a fuck about a convicted felon getting re-elected to the Senate?
Two words.
SENATOR PALIN.

2 years of Governor, 4 years as US Senator+ 4 years of Republicans hating Obama=2012
And the experience argument is over. If she does her book learning in the next 2-3 years. Not sure she will. But she will be amazingly well funded by the neocons.

i voted for "that one" but i really wanted to vote for "this one"

2008-10-20T11:59:00.001-07:00

admit it.

We're fucking cowards.

And not much will change. Because after the fourth. Your hate will subside.
Your disdain for war, corruption, and lower taxes for the wealthy will fade.

And you'll find yourself far more interested in puppies, kayaks, work, family, partners and such
.
And there will still be war, corruption, injustice, greed.

But at least we'll sleep better right?

I know I will.

We'll take back all three branches!! Fuck yes we can.

And maybe just maybe you'll realize there was never any we.

I mean who among you went or will ever go to a tier one law school?

We are lackeys and cowards. We get to vote. And that is it.

And we still vote for people not truly interested in fixing things so much as creating a library after their term is up.

Have fun on Election Day. I hope "WE" get to 60.

My name is Ben. I am a registered Democrat.
I live in fear of Republicans and I'm a fucking coward.

Hoosier for Tina Fey Hotness

2008-10-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

She fucking won that debate. Hands down.

And anyone who says otherwise doesn't know fucking shit about this country and how we watch and work. Seriously, if you think Biden made better points...Everyone on Huffingtonpost will say he made better points. It is because he DID make better points.
ALL HIS POINTS are better. Duh. Irrelevant in this country. Has been for quite some time.
It doesn't fucking matter. She won. Because she didn't fail.

The good news.

Mccain is probably going to lose the election.

But Palin "righted" whatever ship was apparently sinking on her side.

I really think...

2008-09-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

He's going to lose. And it will be all his fault.

Okay:
If Obama wins one of these states he'll be president

Ohio
Virginia
Florida
Indiana

Nowhere in my heart do I believe any of those is going Democrat, except a slight chance at Ohio. I'd seriously doubt Indiana or Florida is going to be blue.

If he wins

Colorado and New Mexico(Or Nevada)
Again I just can't seem to bank on a Colorado/NM or NV combo.
I'm terrified that this portion of the electorate will go Mccain.

he'll be president.

Also I think there is a possibility Mccain might win michigan. And then where are we?

Hope next friday fixes everything.

If I was Obama I'd probably just throw all my money into Ohio and Virginia.

The map was never that different.

Frankly it was long overdue...or basically I bought all my alcohol and I'm quite proud of that

2008-09-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

So the economy is fucking fucked. Honestly I think you have a few options:
Hold on to your job for dear life.
Go to grad school.
Kill yourself.
Okay maybe three is excessive.
I went to the midwest. So trip summary is due.
I show up and see Todd and his Dad. We go to a cubs game, Meghan(todd's girlfriend), Mike, and Todd get shitty drunk. I stay sober and get to drive them home from chicago. I forgot about sunscreen, and subsequently burned the shit out of me.
So that was a bad start. I didn't mind, I mean they were all drunk. What are you to do.
Saturday we go to Iowa City, tailgate(sort of) and go to an Iowa game. I miss Iowa games.
Things I don't miss:
Shitty beer. God seriously, I mean here's the deal. You either drink good beer or you don't and the the theory "I want to get drunk and good beer is expensive" is fucking ridiculous. If you want to get drunk drink liquor. I just don't understand the concept of drinking 12 miller lites. It is dumb dumb and I never feel good after it.
Pork: I ate bratwurst, ribs, and tenderloins. I haven't had such things in years. Don't miss it not one bit. Kinda regret eating it. Will never happen again.

As a side note. Tropic Thunder is fucking incredible. If you haven't seen it you should.

And I was watching a movie with Nancy the other night. It was the Onion movie. Which as a movie sucks, but with some great gags. And there was a Britney Spears parody and a music video with fucking stuffed animals. I about passed out.

Back to Iowa.
If I recall correctly after the game I meet up with Matt Francis. We meet up with Kevin and Nicole at the Mill in coralville. Matt and I start drinking. Crile shows up we go the foxhead and Kathleen meets us there. Crile drinks a little. I drink a lot and so does Francis. We get drunk, I say some really mean things to girls at the jukebox, some rude things to Kathleen, and some great things to Nancy. It was a typical drunk night for me. It was good to see nicole. She swears she is dumping this guy named Mikey she is dating in Muscatine. He works at Hon too. She was funny and nice, so was Chris, and matt was a bit depressed, and gloomy. I was filled with maker's mark. So things seemed good. I embarrassed Kevin pretty bad.

We stumble into Falbo's eat bad pizza. But good drunk.
I pass out.

Sunday: Wake up with Francis, Kevin goes to work. Matt and I wander about the town. Get tacos, see people or something. And I start to look at Iowa City.

And I hate it.
I do. I hate it. Not out of "I'm all grown" up. Bullshit.
But that chicagoites have stolen the town. Really where is the fucking crate and barrel? And I realize that the long lost escape in Iowa has been rendering impotent. If I hate so and so in Iowa, well I could make it to Iowa City. No more. It is finished.
It sucks. It does. But you know what sucks more?
Muscatine.
Nicole gave me the you can be happy anywhere line. I rolled my eyes.
Crile, Kevin and I head to Muscatine to see mr grant gary jackson.
I apologize to Aberdeen.
For every bad thing I said. I'm sorry. So sorry.
It might be true.
But I was in total nostalgia mode about Iowa. I'd pick Aberdeen in an instant over anywhere in the Midwest. I have no plans on moving back there ever. Or visiting for quite some time (multiple years). Two states and a Canadian province. That is it for me. I've found my area of the country.
I'm home.
But I love Aberdeen so much more than my hometown.
Grant is moving back there. I along with others think it is an amazing thing to do on his part and he should be applauded. He is doing it for all the right reasons.
So many of us don't do that.

He is looking good. I think I enjoy myself the most among my stable of friends when Kevin and Grant are along. They are the perfect pair, even though they might not think it.
It is wonderful to watch Grant get drunk by himself, while we all laugh together.
Matt is a buzzkill. He's had a rough run. I think he'll turn the corner.
I sleep at Grant's house. Awake around 8am to run into Gary. It was his birthday one of those days and he seemed upbeat.
He cooks me breakfast, tells grant to wake up and that he's making breakfast.
Gives grant the option of waffles or french toast. Grant pukes at the thought of food. I eat french toast.
I feel 14 again.
And for that brief moment, I could ignore the gap that was there.
I see Rebecca Kadlec's facebook account on grants computer tell him to give it the fuck up. Leave with Todd and Meghan.
Tuesday-Thursday are inconsequential as I spend most of the day at the apartment. Not doing much but reading, writing, and chatting on the phone. It was fun. Lunches with Todd are fun, as are dinners, axis and allies, football watching, tv buying. Driving range. Things people do.
Friday we go back to Iowa City. I hang out with Kevin and Chris at a thai restaurant. We meet up at Kathleen's house after Chris goes to the Deadwood.
Kathleen, Kevin and I are walking to the deadwood.
And the floor falls out.
Suddenly Kathleen and Kevin are fighting, not talking. And pissed off.
Kathleen walks out. I go after her. We talk, I walk with her home.
I get gatorade at John's. Ponder the situation and go back to Kevin's house.
Talk to Kevin.
I'm in the middle here.
And realize that they are both great people. And that the fight is very inconsequential. And I just hope that they will get past it. Either way I learned a heck of a lot about kathleen, and she is one of my favorite people.
And I don't need to sing the praises of Kevin. We all know about that.
I wake up at 7am and go tailgating with the boys. See Zeke. Apologize to Zeke for thinking he was an Obama man. He's a clinton supporter. He's still kinda a weiner and needs to divorce his wife. Saw shawn as well.
Shawn seems good. I'm going to get his art book when it comes out.

A minor slop for nicole. She was great when I saw her, but she's going to get some criticism.
First as I'm going to Muscatine I get into a text message discussion with nicole about seeing her at her house.
She seems okay with it during the day, and suddenly I get ditched for boyfriend.
Which is generally okay since I saw her the day before.
The following weekend I text her, and she replies I think 6 hours later to tell me she is out of town so can't come to Iowa City to hang out with Kevin and I sober.
Again the boyfriend is most certainly involved.
A sad state. And classic Willits behavior. That we would have a discussion with such a firebrand of a personality about the imminent firing of boyfriend. And that she would pseudo ditch me, and still be able to play innocent about it on not one but two subsequent times.
We've done this stupid shit before. She'll figure it out. It might honestly be beyond her control.

The game ends. We drive back to Normal. Wake up in the fucking early dregs of morning. Go to the airport. I fly home.
In short. All my friends are great. You live in areas of the country I don't appreciate. But I enjoy your

Hang out with Nancy after I get back from my flight.

Yes I'm dating Nancy. Yes it is exclusive. I'd say I don't know if it is serious, but it probably is. Yes it is serious. She is 64 inches tall. She went to University of Washington with an English Degree, Middlebury College for her masters in English, and has her DVM(that means vet) from the Washington State University. She works at a practice close to my house. She is 32 years old.
Yes I'm quite crazy about her. Complaints are slim. She likes to go on hikes. Normally I would think this is dumb. And I've never liked hikes very much before.
Until you bring dogs into the picture. Oh man. That changes everything.
She doesn't like to go on hikes with other people. Usually her alone time.
But I'm fun enough to tag along.
She is fucking beyond incredible, smarter than I am by far.
And ben is ben and she seems to like that.
Can we leave it at that?

We went to an aids benefit at a winery saturday and then to the kurt cobain memorial concert.
The benefit had some good food and I won at a raffle. Though I think I actually didn't win.
We got to the concert midway through and saw the last two acts:
Schoolyard Heroes (they rocked hard and I give them a moderate thumbs up) and Harvey Danger.
Yes. I said it. The headlining band was harvey danger.
Not sure about who the fuck harvey danger is? Lets give you a link.

Wasn't it great to go back to when you were 17?

Is there anything sadder than a one hit wonder band that peaked 10 years ago, playing the exact same music? I mean. Nancy and I are going to Cheap Trick, Heart, and Journey. Basically I want to see Heart. And you could classify Cheap Trick as a two hit wonder. But even then they still get a shit ton of radio play. I mean Danger's song did well for what a 6 month rotation?
You have to wonder.
Why the fuck does this band even still exist.
And yet you saw them, what are they in their late 30s now? Out there and its depressing as hell. No risks. Maybe even playing new material. Doesn't matter, it sounded shitty and average. Like bad Ben Folds. And Ben Folds makes me want to stab myself in the eye.
Don't let this happen to you.
The cool concept: Every band had to cover a nirvana song. Everyone did a fantastic job.
Until. The encore.
The lead singer of Schoolyard heroes and the front for Harvey danger decided to do a heart shaped box cover.
With....
Only a keyboard.
I was irritated.
Nancy was beside herself.
I think she was going to go kill everyone there.
It was great.

My room is a disaster. If I do laundry today and get my room somewhat cleaned this day will have been a victory.

I hate that fucking cunt.
I hope someone hate fucks her.
And she gets pregnant.
I don't use the word. But it is true. She is a stupid bitch. I was able to "cope" with a mccain presidency. Now. I'll probably need about 6 valium just to get out of bed if he wins. Or to stay in bed without stabbing myself in the throat.
She is beyond belief.

That is what I think about little miss anchorage.

"I hope your sunburn and other regrets (?) aren't too bothersome. However, if they are too bothersome, I know the solution. I found some very sage graffiti in a bathroom this weekend. One contributor had written, "She's not ready for your cock," and the respondent wrote, "It's an abundant universe."

Skin peeling off? It's an abundant universe. Dog vomiting blood? It's an abundant universe. Whole life up until this point not only insufferable but also meaningless? It's an abundant universe."

Emails from people never cease to amaze.

my oh my

2008-08-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

It is still as good as I remember.

I'm probably in too deep already.

he knows this is going to happen aka email from crile

2008-08-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

"Set in the Old West territory of New Mexico, "Appaloosa" revolves around a pair of hired guns (Viggo Mortensen and Ed Harris) who come to clean up a dangerous town run by a ruthless, powerful rancher (Jeremy Irons) and his band of outlaws. While boldly bringing new order to the town, the two fearless lawmen meet a provocative outsider (Renee Zellweger) whose unconventional ways threaten to destroy their decade-old bond."

Right, so I had a dream Francis had a big party we thought only our group of friends would be invited to but ended up a bunch of people from our highschool showed up. 4 kids threw up on the couch were I was sleeping, while I was sleeping, and their puke was really bright blues and reds and greens.

Thhhheeeeennnn

I wrote a letter to Prince to let him know what kind of music I liked, folk music and songs about animals (I don't know why my sub-conscience thinks that is the music I like, it's not, I swear). He responded by painting the message, "Chris, it's not enough to tell me this is the kind of music you like, please record yourself singing some of these songs onto tape and get it to me by next week" in white on the side of a blue bus. He didn't just email me back, he had this painted on the side of a bus. I happened to see it driving to work.

Then I woke up.

-Christopher sends the best emails. I'm certain of it.

When you close your eyes is it hell you see?

2008-08-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

I talked to Dori today. As a result I had a strong inclination to talk to Liz. Just email, perhaps about small things. Nothing of any import. Chatter really.
Some part of me waxed nostalgic about receiving liz's emails.
I think I miss emails period.
I keep trying to chat with Grant, and he is always seemingly away. I have heard he is very busy with an impending move.
I'll try email next.
And then move on to phone calls.
I think the trip will involve me going to muscatine, to see sarah noll of all people, as well as grant and his father if they are around and free. Nicole if she doesn't head up to Iowa City (which I will demand unless she has her boyfriend over then I'll definitely come to muscatine to see her and make a scene)
And to see matt.

Here's the deal with Matt. You honestly won't find a sweeter kid than him.
No there are others we know that may make you question my choice. Don't worry those other folks are nice enough. I know them, talk with them. They are my friends too.
But they have a mean streak in them. We all do I think. There are many traits other people have, this isn't a whose is bigger.
Matt's mean streak when it comes to people he loves and cares about simply doesn't exist. Or it exists to such a minimal degree that it infuriates me when a female takes advantage of it.
Matt is a fucking asshole. Don't get me wrong here.
But one in all the right ways. One that is for the most part a marker and a warning for all of our lives.
There are far too many of you who don't deserve what you get.

I'm going to get some Thai Food with Nancy and watch Ginger Snaps 3 and drop Idiocracy on her if she is up to it. That is a movie we all need to see.

Seriously Ginger Snaps is soooooooooooo good.

HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT

Who doesn't love to talk about themselves and their billions of dollars?

2008-08-15T02:47:00.000-07:00

So if only I could express my sentiments when I received the following txt/pic message from nancy.

"Its off. Wanna watch the movie later?"

The movie being ginger snaps 2. Which sucks. But has some moments, but Ginger Snaps is great.
The off being a dead dog's leg that has been thawing for 2+ days.
She looks very happy doesn't she?

I have yet to see clone wars. And the critics are stupid, this is a moneymaking operation for a tv show. I will pay for it. Because I want to see it. I missed the midnight show to watch ginger snaps 2. I'll be going tomorrow. A lot. Make of that what you will.

The Plan or itinerary as it is

2008-08-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

August 28th fly into Chicago
Friday the 29th go to cubs game
Saturday the 30th go to Iowa Game in Iowa City
Sunday 31st Hang out in Iowa City
Monday 1st Hang out in Iowa City
Tuesday 2nd -Thursday 4th stay in Bloomington/Normal
Friday/Saturday Iowa City
Sunday 7th fly home from Chicago.

So the tally is.
4-5 days in Iowa City(or nearby).
1 Day in Chicago.
3-4 Days in Normal/Bloomington

That is where I will be.
There is some flexibility to this schedule. Getting to muscatine is a possibility, but lets get real muscatine sucks. In fact I like Aberdeen a whole hell of a lot more since coming back. So why not iowa city? I have no immediate plans to be in the Minneapolis/St Paul area.
But basically your best bet is to be in the Iowa City area on Labor Day weekend or the following weekend.
Other than football games I have no firm commitments.
I will not be returning to the midwest for social reasons for a long time (long being measured in years)
So it is quite important that I get to spend some time with all of you.
If you have already have plans, you're forgiven. If your name is:

Grant or
Chris

That is it. I'm going to blog more soon. But I'm getting sick of only reading Kathleen and Matt's blogs and well both are lacking their previous luster.
Its summer, its hot. We're bored. I get it.
Fall is starting and well winter is coming. Time for drudgery and sarcasm.
You'll do fine. Just let it fly.
This is a star wars week. I'm very happy my mall has a food court. Some of you know why, some of you should know why.

Ginger Snaps is the horror film I wish I had written.

email from grant, for those that have not read it yet.

2008-07-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I'm still in Muscatine and probably will be for a while. Our hospice nurse came by this morning and said that Mom could go at any point. All our family is either here or are on their way. She's resting comfortably as she can right now and the nurse assured us that her passing would be painless. She's been in a deep sleep (not a coma) almost since she's been home from the hospital and her twin sister Fern has been here the whole way helping out to keep her happy and comfy. I'm sorry if I haven't been available by phone or text message lately, I left my phone charger in Minneapolis and just now figured out that I could charge the thing by hooking up to the computer's usb port. Anyhow, I'll try and keep in touch with everyone via text or email, talking on the phone just isn't an easy thing right now. I hope you all are well, please take care.

Love,

Grant.

DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT-BATMAN

2008-07-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing.

Its a very good movie.

Heath Ledger is everybit of the hype.

Now lets nitpick and then get back to the point.

I would have never imagined that I wanted Katie Holmes back. I did. Maggie fails in this film, she is the lone weak actor here, other than nicky katt as the swat team guy.
And thats sad because she's really good.

Here is the ultimate issue. It has elevated the genre, it has. But that neither means it is the top of its genre, nor in the echelon of the great crime films it aspires to be.
And that is why critical acclaim has been so out of control.
It is a batman film.
But it is trying to be a godfather, a heat.
And the mere attempt and a damn close one allows us to want to gush.
I mean its batman right? You didn't expect anything...like this.

But go and walk yourself through the story, the plot. Just recall what you've just seen. The 2.5 hours of it.
And see if it all adds up, the plot, the characterization, the characters.
You have multiple storylines, some don't hold as much water as they should and others are extended beyond their control.
It feels as if he needed another hour.
Or
just maybe.
We have two films.
Or that the story arcs nolan is dealing with are simply too much for him to handle.
And the fact of the matter is that most of this is harvey dent's film.
It is. Aaron eckhart is brilliant here. But we get two-face and he's still brilliant,
but we just aren't given enough to sustain a true dramatic arc.
Is it tragic?
Maybe.
Not as tragic as two-face living.
But Nolan did this in the first film, copped out by killing Al-Ghul.
And I'm still not entirely sure of the reason we saw the scarecrow for 30 seconds.
The joker is another story.
Start to finish it is clear and none of his jokes are funny. It is telling that the crowd laughed at some of his humor, he is a JOKER after all. I am glad he lives, and yet cannot understand the logic of letting joker live and yet killing two-face. Oh yes, to save a kid. Hmmmm. Isn't killing joker merely saving thousands?
So. We are left with one brilliant arc.
Another one that is well, it needs another film.
A bad girlfriend role.
And some muddling in the middle.
The joker arc feels like a 110-120 minute film. And it feels like a great one.
Sometimes you feel like you've lost the movie and the scary part is is that the "other movie" isn't boring at all.
And the film could use more batman/bruce wayne. But again. It has soo much.
This is a buffet.
It is.
But it leaves you wanting more, not out of pure satisfaction or arousal.
But rather out of missed genius.
But if its between nolan trying and coming close.
And not trying at all.
And it involves characters I loved growing up. .
I'll fucking take it everytime.

But its no heat.
Its no godfather.
And of my personal opininon it is the third best comic book movie ever made.
I liken it to V for vendetta in many ways.
It has the heart, the guts, the actors, the ambition to have been not only the best comic book film of all time.
But one of the great films.

And yes you could put heath ledger's early scenes right up there with anthony hopkins in silence in brilliance and pure creepiness.

This film will always create a wonderful argument in its genre of the importance of recognizing pure potential over restraint and proper execution.

oh thank god for the new yorker

2008-07-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

When are you still free in July for a possible visit from Jess and I to the ocean? I leave for Nats on July 30th, then am gone the following weekend for GP-Denver.

Incidentally, I also found out some interesting facts about SeaTac airport. While it's true that it's located in a town called Seatac, it is actually named after Seattle and Tacoma (hence the odd double capitalization). It turns out Seatac is one of the first cities in the country to build itself around, and name itself after, an airport. Thus the airport is located in a city called Seatac, but is actually named after a combination of Seattle and Tacoma.

Also, KK sent me a text message about lice or something. Do you know anything about that?

My response:

Bill,

I’m going to say something honestly.

You’re younger than me.

And so forth on your best day 6 months behind. Usually it seems around 24 months.

Except for magic. You got me there.

I’m free on the 26^th. I think.

Find me an atheist scientist

2008-07-13T01:42:00.000-07:00

That is REALLY into intelligent design

or hell someone who doesn't think christ was a pretty swell guy.
I'll go that far.
Do they even exist?

MOON DUST!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Randy Quaid who knew?

2008-07-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

After watching a 3 hour 1987 biopic tv film starring Randy Quaid as LBJ(he was fucking phenomenal btw)
I want Clinton as VP really bad.
Or really just want LBJ to be president again.
And I watched Eyes Wide Shut. And full metal jacket.
I thought maybe I was depressed in my younger years and taking it out on Stanley Kubrick.
Maybe I was just too hard on Eyes Wide Shut? No. No. No. From the soundtrack to the non-story, to it oh trying to make europe look like new york and well it looks like europe at 4am.
He fucking sucks.
He's a bloated piece of shit.
And his movies are so horribly over the top and arrogant.
I mean. Everyone who tells me how scary the shining is, I just kinda laugh. I'm like really?
I laugh outloud at that film, I mean its a joke. Jack Nicholson is more flamboyantly dumb than him in any burton film. And why the fuck did burton cast beetlejuice as Batman when he could have been the joker? But thats me digressing on batman things.
Strangelove had its moments but is that really kubrick or Peter Sellers?
His best films?
Paths of Glory and Spartacus, two big budget productions with Kirk Douglas and multiple writers/producers/egos.
He would have been a brilliant HOLLYWOOD STUDIO director. Now we have Mcg.
I'm starting to think Roman Polanski is everything he isn't.
Polanski even has the glorious failures as well!
I mean Johnny Depp searching for the book from hell!
Powder....wow.

I mean Hillary basically needs to call michelle and say: "listen okay I'm going to sew that hick's mouth shut, now I can't guarantee he won't go on a fucking whore spree when you get elected, but he'll be good till november. I promise"

the most devastating film of all time

2008-07-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

grave of the fireflies

no doubt.

I'm sick right now.

an apology

2008-06-30T11:21:00.001-07:00

From a text message:

I am very sorry for what was said by me.
Though tye intentions were in good faith, I should not have said what I did.
If you need anything, I'll be around.

ben

usually i don't laugh at oreilly things

2008-06-20T13:23:00.001-07:00

Well because it has become just too easy to, but this really got me.

I have three draft sets.
Go.

I just watched 19 holes of fucking fantastic golf

2008-06-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

And here's why

Hulk was...
Was it bad? No. Was it good no.
The best part.
Tony Stark at the end and the thought of avengers.
Now if only we can get the superman/batman film(NOT JLA)

this made the movie a hell of a lot better

today is father's day

2008-06-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

You are right. There is no cure. We're not looking for one. We know she is going to die. She knows she is going to die, she also knows it's going to be sooner than it is later. But how soon we don't know. She has a lot to live for. She has a grandchild on the way, she has 4 grandchildren currently, she has four children, a husband, and 4 sisters. She knows she isn't going to see her oldest grandchild graduate from high school. She knows she probably won't see me get married, that she won't get to dance with me at my wedding. She knows she's not going to get to go on the European vacation with her sisters like she had planned. She is being robbed of so many experiences and she wants to have as many now as she can now before the time is up. She wants to fight for more time. Her doctor thinks it is a very good idea to get this second opinion. She hates the idea of giving up. And we're sticking by her with her decisions, whatever they may be. I hope it made you feel better to try and call me/us out publicly on your blog. Nice job.

-grant.

My response:
See now there is the email you should have written to all those other folks.
The only treatment option is hospice care and counseling(for everyone) and the like. I think on an outpatient basis that would be even better.
It made me feel a hell of a lot better to call your family out.
Had you the same courage you showed others, to email/text/call me(or just add me on the send to list) and tell me her diagnosis I would have said the same thing .
It was the only outlet I had. And for some reason it felt the most appropriate.
So I needed to say it. I was going to say it no matter what.
And I don't think you really expected any different.
I'll be posting this conversation on the blog as well.
Maybe to call you out, maybe for no other reason than to let others read it.
Because I may very well be in the complete wrong, for the blog, for what I've said. Better to witness.
My words and actions have always carried no weight. With you, or any of my other friends.
This has been true for a very long time.
So I see no benefit to you responding to this. I also hope you would not have any distress as a result of my blogs, or feelings on the matter. You of course will do what you choose to do.
I have said what I needed to say.
And if I need to say anything else regarding this, I am sure you will read it somewhere

remembrances

2008-06-13T08:24:00.000-07:00

She is going to die.
She will not be cured by her treatment in Chicago, nor anywhere you take her.
The cancer will take her life. It will take her life soon. There is nothing you can do to stop that.
It is a waste of time to try to think you can.
I am sick today.
But I know that I will feel better tomorrow. And therefore I take everything important for granted, because well I have time.
She is very short on time. And the fact of the matter is that you pressing forward on the idea that she can have more of it. If only you try this or that.
If only.
We go out fighting?
Is that as much for you as for her? Do we have to prove we did everything we could? Did we even do everything we could?
Does that really matter now?
The question is what does your mother want? Right now.
There are a few answers she cannot have, but most might be possible.
Is treatment the right thing? Is that what she wants to do, if she is well aware of the outcome?
I am telling you now she will not survive this. And if I am wrong, you may damn me to whatever plane of existence you wish.
You are welcome to live your life anyway you want. The question is whether at the end of your mother's she and you are happy.
This could be the most enjoyable days, weeks, or months of your entire lives.
And there is something you can do about that.

Or in other words get fucked koppes....

2008-05-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

"It takes a cold heart and a weary imagination to dislike an "Indiana" film with all of its rambunctious gusto. With every ounce of its massive budget, it strains to make us laugh, surprise us, go over the top with preposterous action. "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" does those things under the leadership of Spielberg, who knows as much as any man ever has about what reaches the popular imagination.

Spielberg at heart will always be that kid who sneaked onto the back lot at Universal and talked himself into a job. He's the kind of man who remains in many ways a boy. He likes neat stuff. He thinks it would be fun to have Indiana and friends plunge over three waterfalls, not one. He knows that we know what back projection is, and he uses it blatantly (Indy arriving in frame as if he had jumped there, while the background rolls past a little out of focus). He knows back projection feels differently that perfect digital backgrounds -- it feels more like a movie. He likes boldly-faked editing sequences: We see the heroes in medium shot at the edge of a waterfall, we see a long shot of their boat falling to what would obviously be instant oblivion below, and then he shows the heroes surfacing together and near the shore (no rapids!) and spitting out a little water. The movie isn't a throwback to the Saturday serials of the 1930s and 1940s. It's what they would have been if they could have been.

Consider another action series, the Matrix films. They're so doggedly intense and serious. They seem to think the future of the universe really is a stake. There's a role for serious action, but not when it's hurled at us in a cascade of quick-cutting and QueasyCam shots that make dramatic development impossible. Even if the they are constructed out of wall-to-wall implausibility, the Indy films have characters who aren't frantic. Harrison Ford and Spielberg are wise: They know a pumped-up Indy would seem absurd. Indiana Jones himself is so laid back he sometimes seems to be watching the movie with us. He's happy to be aboard, just as long, of course, as he can stay in the boat/truck/airplane."

Balding Pulitzer Winner vs Bald Lead Singer of the tanks

Pulitzer Winner 1

Lead Singer 0

Lakers-Celtics oh fucking christ. I'm very very excited.

2008-05-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

-I am of the nature to grow old. There is no way to escape growing old.

-I am of the nature to have ill health. There is no way to escape ill health.

-I am of the nature to die. There is no way to escape death.

-All that is dear to me and everyone I love are of the nature to change. There is no way to escape being separated from them.

-My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand.

The real question is would you sit in a lonely space waiting for the person you love with only a book in your hands and hope?

the shape of things to come...

2008-05-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

What would H.G. Wells think about all this shit?

All that being said. I loved Indiana Jones. It needed Marcus Brody, but people die and things change.

Or at least we like to hope they do.

I woke up and forgot it was my birthday...you corrected me on all counts.

2008-05-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

You are much better friends than I deserve.
Or rather are better friends than I.
Deserve is not up to me I suppose.
But that sounds cynical. I'm in quite a good mood.
Thanks.
It made my day.

And now I know that my girl has the popular vote all locked up.
So sweet knowing that the Obama people have to go to sleep with that fact.
I stayed up watching after hours on msnbc with Ron Reagan and Dan Abrams. Because it was their birthdays as well. We celebrated.

This has been a great birthday.

If roger ebert dies...I'll probably cry.

2008-05-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

"The Indiana Jones movies were directed by Steven Spielberg and written
by George Lucas and a small army of screenwriters, but they exist in a
universe of their own. Hell, they created it. All you can do is compare one to the other three. And even then, what will it get you? If you eat four pounds of sausage, how do you choose which pound tasted the best? Well, the first one, of course, and then there's a steady drop-off of interest. That's why no Indy adventure can match "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981). But if "Crystal Skull" (or "Temple of Doom" from 1984 or "Last Crusade" from, 1989) had come first in the series, who knows how much fresher it might have seemed? True, "Raiders of the Lost Ark" stands alone as an action masterpiece, but after that the series is compelled to be, in the words of Indiana himself, "same old same old." Yes, but that's what I want it to be.

.....Now what else can I tell you, apart from mentioning the blinking red digital countdown, and the moving red line tracing a journey on a map? I can say that if you liked the other Indiana Jones movies, you will like this one, and that if you did not, there is no talking to you. And I can also say that a critic trying to place it into a heirarchy with the others would probably keep a straight face while recommending the second pound of sausage."

I have a really serious question

2008-05-17T22:47:00.001-07:00

Did Harrison Ford land the plane at the end of Air Force One? I cannot recall.
Working on a midwest trip, it may involve more flexibility from you than me. Apologies in advance if that is the case.

the man perfected freezing potato chips for fucks sake can't we give him some sort of plaque?

2008-05-16T23:24:00.000-07:00

"My names ______ andI like x and x and x. Yeah thats not college"
...fucking slut"

Perhaps the greatest quote of all time.

x=bands.

God I love grant.

74-69. Game 7.

you remember when ghostbusters 2 came out and you were like wow!

2008-05-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

They're back. And you're like man slimer was great.
Actually I was more excited about Batman and Indy 3. In retrospect. Ghostbusters 2 was better than batman. I was young then.
This is like that only better.

I

win.

the kathleen lovefest is back on!

2008-05-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Her blog is just scary good.
How about you get to blogging? You need to keep up.
You know who you are.

lcd AND projector broken....lebrons mom dead...news at 11

2008-05-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

It gets worse... "You always stick to the plan — until it goes wrong; then you improvise with the best of the hotshots.
When it's time to work, you work. When it's time to party, you kick back, light up, or throw down. You try to please people one minute, and the next you don't give a frak what they think.
At times you seem noble, idealistic and heroic. Then you turn around and do something selfish, expedient or cowardly. Whatever direction the wind blows, you find a way to go with it.
The one constant in your life is your ability to agonize over your decisions, past and present. You worry about honor, hold grudges, brood over disappointments, cling to unrequited loves, and seem to be the one person everyone else takes for granted.
They say you're a pain, but they'll miss you when you're gone."

I'm turning 27 soon. I actually thought I was turning 28. Go figure. Need to keep track of this stuff. Its called math.

I've been really agonizing over adding soy into my diet. After a lot of deliberation I've come to the conclusion that soy in principle is bad. Soymilk tofu all that shit.
Except.
Miso/Tempeh and soy sauce. Ahh the power of fermentation. Its okay because I don't really love tofu all that much but DO love soy sauce and miso. And tempeh > tofu anyway.

Egg white powder plus yogurt is a fat free protein orgasm gone right.
I'm slightly bored for two reasons.
One I haven't opened my book yet. And two I haven't cooked any rice.
You should check out kevins blog the link is to the right. Its spectacular. Just had a conference call about it in fact....

If Chris Paul didn't exist I'd commit animal husbandry

2008-05-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

You guys all fucking suck.
You really do.
There I said it.
Except for Andrea, with her cute nose, and affinity for bad television.
I'm going to marry that girl.

Thank fucking lucas...

2008-05-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

I'll beat you crile...yes I will.
I'm going to go watch Lakers-Jazz.

If I've learned anything from this life so far...

2008-05-09T01:03:00.001-07:00

1.) The television show LOST is a fucking joke.
2.) pre-1991 Kathleen Turner could make me do anything if she wanted to.
And I mean anything.
any
thing.
But that is probably true for all straight men I'm sure.
3.) When star wars tells me that there is a trailer to be televised and at what time, and when said trailer is not televised at that time or at all, I feel great amounts of furious anger. And then get depressed.
4.) I need to call dori
5.) I need to email kathleen
6.) Kevin was very impressed with nicole. She's a nice person. I try to tell the public, but they just won't believe me. I swear.
7.) Phone Conversation:
Grant: Hello?
Me: Hey your dad is having pizza with kevin?
Grant: No my dad doesn't even like pizza.
Me: No, its fucking true. Kevin was going down to muscatine to hang out with nicole
And she bailed at the last minute, because she sucks and he stopped by your parents place and hung out with gary. Because nicole is being a bitch. (Dad laughing in background)
Grant: Oh jesus christ. Let me tell liz this.
Liz: Laughter. Why is Nicole in Muscatine?
Grant: Thats not important. Kevin is hanging out with my dad.
Me: He's like your big brother.
Grant: And he's younger than me.
Me: And he'll marry susan.
Grant: Susan is already married.
Me: Now she is. But that can always change.
Liz(still laughing): tell kevin to visit my mom
Me: Liz is as loud as I remember.
Grant:....yeah
Me: oh god please don't tell her I said that
Me: Yeah Kevin really doesn't want to visit Liz's mom....
Grant....yeah
Me: Oh god really don't tell liz i said that. Just say I said hi.
Grant: Okay.
Me: I think the celtics should trade ray allen
Grant: For daniel gibson!
Me: or draft picks
This continues until grant hangs up.
8.) I'm in love with andrea. I need to make up with her. My first attempts at wooing her didn't go so well. And then get her to get out of her loveless marriage. and then marry me. These 3 steps will take some time. I'm also not sure its a loveless marriage, but some people change. I think a shower is in order first
Its a process.
9.) Chris sends me one sentence emails after every bsg episode. Its endearing. I have to find a way to beat him to it. But he has time on his side. Literally.
10.) No more texting. Grant this means you.

the kathleen lovefest has to end sometime...

2008-05-04T22:10:00.001-07:00

So I'll dispense with the raves about her few previous blogs.
My dad was excited about command and conquer 3 because there were two characters from BSG(Six and Boomer) And Sawyer from lost. As well as lando calrissian and michael ironside
Iron Man is an enjoyable film. And will go to hulk 2 just for the chance to see Tony Stark.
Any reservations I had about Indy 4 are gone. I can't fucking wait.
Having your teppanyaki cook make jokes about dolly parton in reference to a chicken breast is probably the funniest thing I've ever heard.

We have so many choices in life I guess.
To some this makes things very complicated. Or the whole gamut.
For a few we have very few choices.

I think the choices we make ultimately are tied to how well we know ourselves. Or as kevin likes to call it "the information we have at the time".

The fundamental question is do you become who you are, really deep down?
Is that journey that important?
This sounds as if I'm quite lost.

I'm not.

You see there are days when I watch a television show or a sporting event, and it feels as if I'm on someone's journey, not mine. And it is quite enjoyable.
But I often wonder about my own journey and where it is headed. I generally know where it is headed, give or take a few variables (elections pissing me off, dogs shitting on carpets etc).
And what sort of accountability is their in using the "this is who I am excuse". As if we had no say. But the journey ends where I say it does. As simple as that.

I just really liked crile's email "I'm starting to think this is all going to end very badly"
But really this blog is about the new Dark Knight trailer.

As for my own journey.
Apologies in advance.
For losing touch.
I meant it to happen.
Hope you are well.

There are days when I recall listening to Mr. Smith blab about Hobbes and Locke and I'm pretty sure KK is Locke....but me?

2008-04-27T20:50:00.001-07:00

I know who I am.
Why oh why didn't I take the BLUE pill?

What the fuck did Barbara Boxer do to her hair?

2008-04-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

This whole "go green" thing is getting outta hand. Were we always so obsessed with conformity?
If I see one more clean coal commercial I'm going to puke.
Last blog until guam.

Figure this out and you win a prize!

2008-04-21T23:10:00.001-07:00

I am gay for the following actors:
Eric Bana
Sam Elliot
Jennifer Connelly
Nick Nolte

I think the following actors are a crock of shit:
Edward Norton
Liv Tyler
William Hurt

Right now I really want sesame flavored foods. Or rather just to smell sesame.
That doesn't mean I have a tumor does it?

Right now I really want to watch samurai movies and be with friends, barring that a dog

2008-04-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I miss people. Its rare I know. But sometimes I miss you guys, not a lot.
Really no more than once or twice a month. Most of the time it wouldn't matter if you were dead.
That isn't to say I want you dead, its only that I am a total out of sight out of mind kind of fellow.
But then random thoughts pop up and well I find you all so fucking endearing.
And really I kind of want to hangout with someone for about 52 hours straight and then I don't want to see them for another 6 months or so. This has nothing to do with the person, i just get sick of myself around people after about three days.
Like Bill.
Who got a job at WOTC and will be in the Seattle area.
This makes up for Mfster who just left portland. Now I have no one in portland but someone in seattle. But he'll be doing magic things, but thats okay because I like magic.
Magic Online 3 is almost online. I'm guessing in another week. If it crashes on me again I'll breathe fury at wotc and have bill personally take me to the people that work on it.
The drafts ran fine. I blew 27 dollars on going 0-2 in two drafts. Apparently you need to read the cards and draft creatures. I did both of those things incorrectly.
That was my pre-release.

last week has kinda the wind up to doing lots of things with free time.
Starting on tuesday I work like 11 straight days. This doesn't bother me, it just means that life tends to revolve around work/food and sleep. And so instead of taking free time for granted, I need to actively plan an enjoyable time.
So the plan. Thursday will involve playing long and involving roleplaying games, reading my book, and watching Warlock. And maybe playing House of the Dead 3 until I pass out.
Friday is all about Battlestar Galactica the day revolves around it. I don't care what you think.
Other things happen, but I'm not entirely sure they matter.
All of those things happened. So so far it has been great. The weekend was wonderful.

Heaven and Earth. A 1990 samurai epic, I saw it once on television at about 3am when I was in the formative years.
I thought it was incredible and never paid it much thought during the late nineties, until I found I couldn't find it anywhere.
So I decided to find it and I did this makes me quite happy I intend to watch it tonight.

I've seen previews for atonement the film and have had horrible dreams about them
HORRIBLE.
Wake up in a sweat dream about atonement.
So I had to read a synopsis of the book to allay my fears. Someone had to die. I needed closure.
I'm much better now.
No clue why atonement triggered such a violent reaction.

I have no idea why I think you guys are all so great but i do.

20:29] me: im not blindly anti-israel
[20:29] me: they just shouldn't be in jerusalem
[20:29] me: gaza, the west bank
[20:29] me: or the golan heights
[20:30] me: they can build a 5000 ft wall around those areas
[20:30] me: but not inside them and not to isolate them from other countries
[20:31] Grant Jackson: why not?
[20:32] me: because okay
[20:32] me: if you were building a wall to protect yourself from terrorists
[20:32] me: why do you need to build that wall inside areas that were not considered yours but are "nice"
[20:32] me: as in olive trees, landscape etc
[20:32] me: i mean
[20:33] me: wouldn't you build a wall along your borders?
[20:33] me: its like us building a wall 100 miles inside mexico because well, we want to build condos in baja
[20:34] me: that is all hamas is saying
[20:34] Grant Jackson: not it's not
[20:35] me: grant
[20:35] me: protect your borders
[20:36] me: and well its a "security risk" to just allow baja to stay walled off from america, so we'll wall it off from mexico
[20:36] me: figure that one out
[20:39] Grant Jackson: yeah
[20:40] Grant Jackson: cuz baja and all its camel fucking friends decided to try and gang rape you
[20:40] Grant Jackson: and lost
[20:40] me: ok
[20:40] me: so lets say you win the land
[20:40] me: why then
[20:40] me: are the people in the land
[20:40] me: not considered citizens of your country?
[20:41] me: with rights to vote
[20:41] me: because then mandela would take office
[20:41] me: and well
[20:42] me: we wouldn't like darkies running OUR country

Happy Premise #1:There are no aliens

2008-04-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

The bad news.

Rose decided to not get married. But apparently things are fine. Just marriage. I don't really care either way. As long as she's happy. In other news I was told a lawyer is warranted Kevin.
So my midwest trip is as of today canceled. There is a slim chance. But slim.

The good news. I'm thinking in May bob will get a 360. Which will make him happy for reasons that are beyond me sometimes. Like this I walk into the living room "How many times do you need to watch Overboard?"
Bob's response: never seen it.
If you don't give a shit about video games. Stop reading now.

But Ikaruga is out for Xbox live arcade.
Ikaruga is a japanese space shooter. For some of you this means "like Galaga"?. Or gradius, Xevious, 1941(not space but you get the point)
Since I had a gamecube I wanted Ikaruga bad. But I could never find one anywhere.
The game is like 60 dollars on ebay. I can now download it for 10 dollars. Sounds good so far.

The reason space shooters are so good is that they at there best can become pure gaming.
Simplicity in design, yet brilliantly difficult.
Ikaruga has the most simple yet fucking ridiculously awesome concept. And they can be hard. Throw your controller difficult. But back to the concept.
Light/Dark
There are two enemies. Light and Dark. You can switch your ship from light to dark instantly.
As a light ship you can absorb light attacks and do double damage to dark ships and vice versa.
So you need to avoid dark attacks as a light ship and of course the opposite. For me just watching it, reading about it made me salivate at the thought of a near perfect game.
Sound too perfect?
Thats because it is. Take a look.

Hey its possible to be a total hipster fuck and make a real movie!!!

2008-04-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

Its true. I don't expect it to last for Gondry. It is the first for him and probably the last. I mean, its too hard not to worry about others. But its nice to know that sometimes it all comes together.
Its all about honesty.
Be Kind Rewind.

Emails I received tonight

2008-04-07T20:40:00.000-07:00

Crile Email #1: So far, I really like Dan in Real Life. It looks like this movie is set on your coast. I'll keep you updated.

Crile Email #2:Juliette Binoche just showed up. That's another plus.

Crile Email#3: but dane cook just showed up. That's not good. he seems minor though. Maybe this is the other coast. it seems too new england eee.

Damn it, she's dating dane cook. that bastard doesn't deserve her.
I don't know how this is going to turn out now.
i think they are racing crossword puzzles.

Crile Email #4: John reilly needs to stop doing movies with will ferrell.

Koppes Email #1:
me: Hey, Crile.
Christopher: have you seen dan in real life
Yeah, that was the start of the conversation.
KMK

Crile Email#5 :ohh, she is going to fall in love with his dad ness. I get it.

Crile Email#6;
ah ha ha, steve just fell off the roof. that was hilarious.

Crile Email#7: oh man, this movie is starting to seem familiar. except my family isn't that big.

Crile Email#8: ahhh, jealousy. that's my favorite way to get a girls affections. or destroy them.

Crile Email#9: oh man, she burned his pancake.

Crile Email#10: the family is having a fucking talent show. no family is this constructive.

I'm going to go watch 30 days of night or a something with zombies. And then take some melatonin.
And then go to bed.

We have such sights to show you.

2008-04-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

I'm pinhead.
I'm going to show up. With a suitcase(lament configuration)
Sleep on your couch and consume your souls.
Its true.
I'm a cenobite.
Chains, Flesh, Attention. Its all the same.
You should probably all reconsider your friendship with me.
But you enjoy it too much.

Charlton Heston is in hell.

Basically Every Time I see these ads all I can think about

2008-04-06T00:50:00.001-07:00

Is that these are basically the conversations that Sarah Noll and Nick have every day.

Sonic Fucking Blows btw.

I can't fracking....

2008-04-04T00:55:00.001-07:00

Wait.
Best.
Show.
Ever.

20 hours and counting....

Happy premise #2: There is no giant foot trying to squash me.

2008-04-03T20:47:00.000-07:00

EMAIL(not chat) Conversation With Nicole:

Nicole:

sugar-free.

or super low sugar.

i'm giving up caffeine and sugar.

any suggestions?

My response:

What exactly do you mean by giving up sugar?

Her Response:

never mind.

how are you?

My response:

Great.

Her Response:

is something wrong?

My response:

Logic path check!

Question: How are you?

Answer: Great.

Response: Is something wrong?

Happy premise #3: Even though I feel like I might ignite, I probably won't.

2008-04-01T21:13:00.001-07:00

I've thought long and hard about this.
If you are going to get married or enter into a long term relationship with a person.
There is one critical question to ask.

If Ben were to show up with a day's notice and say "im crashing in your spare bedroom/couch/garage for a while" and when you asked how long and Ben said "not sure" would your partner be? Also how would your partner be at 3 weeks? Six months? Four years?

A.) Thrilled, perhaps as excited as you?
B.) Tentative
C.) Angry
D.) Acting thrilled but yells at you later
E.) Says only the word No.

This is how I plan on evaluating everyone you date. I think you should too.

I need to get down to portland before matt leaves.
I had a dream I found my beta berserk and my sword of the ages. Wasn't true. I woke up feeling very sad. I might tear this room to shreds.
Its gone dad. I know.

Kevin

Kathleen

Rizzo

Juicer

go

What do you mean by "drink from you" is that like a metaphor? Oh its not. Well then....

2008-03-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

Nintendo is overrated. There its a smart thing to say. Lets just look at their IPs. Mario Zelda Metroid Great Games right? Of course. Now. I don't know. One of the fundamental problems with video games and their players is nostalgia. I played Super Mario Galaxy and while a pretty game, its just another jump kill things. It doesn't really do anything and it led me to believe that these games were great then. Doom 3 had great graphics, amazing graphics, but it lost the point of doom. Metroid 3 is simply a third person shooter, and while a good one. Nothing special. And the original metroids were great then, I just couldn't see myself honestly putting in the hours. And I think Nintendo is really really pushing hard to exploit this fact, and many gamers eat it up. Because for most players, playing video games is an escape from adulthood. Its okay, you want to go back to neverland. There are some games that I find myself going back to without feeling empty or irritated. a game that wasn't really all that revolutionary but from a design standpoint, almost perfect. Starcraft. Why is Starcraft so perfect? Because its a board game. You play board games a lot. Even risk over and over again. That appeals to me in a much different sense. It is pure gaming. Starcraft 2 should be that. I hope it is. But the Wii should be a game changer. It is not. Halo, WOW, Sims are game changers. Either they changed the way we look at video games, or they did it so well that we forgot how good it could be. What I'm saying is that the Wii is a gimmick for now and that fanboys are keeping the ips alive. I've played the "GREAT" games on the Wii and I'm just not impressed. Any more than I was by the gamecube. Thank god it was free. Although I'm excited about the prospect of a great tennis game. The prius is in the house. Red. Its a nice car. I wouldn't mind having one. Although it doesn't get me that excited, its a robot car and that is cool. Although I'm far more excited for the new hybrids coming out and plug in cars. NCAA basketball has been good, if a bit underwhelming. I'll get to watch two whole games today, I haven't been able to.
After the mclaughlin group of course.

I am now into living forever this involves tea, juices, foods, exercise, supplements.
I am all set. Until I read one of the last chapters.
Life Partner.
This was not part of the plan. So I have to make changes.
Apparently having a life partner means that I live longer on average, apparently I am more content and satisfied.
I bet I'll need kids too, and puppies.
Well if thats the secret to immortality sign me up.
Hello wife and kids. I'll start looking in 2009.
Here's the work requirements.
1.) Must be happy and content in their life and totally into living forever with me, or at least until I'm immortal then you can leave me. And they have to want kids, because I'm guessing kids make you live longer for them or something like that. But they can't want kids because they have a deficiency, again it has to be for that whole making lives better stuff. Not that I care, I just want to live forever.
2.) Must be super into health. I mean the whole happy thing won't work if you die. The whole concept is us making it to the age of gods. Or at least me. So I'll need you to be around and happy and firing on all cylinders for oh the next 50-60 years.
3.) I don't care if its a boy or girl. Really. I don't. As long as they don't have the "im not happy, or in love with you anymore" gene. I'm fine. I don't need servitude. Just commitment. I am talking about forever here.We don't have time to cry and do the whole lifetime movie thing. None of that I'm retired I don't have anything left to do crap either, or the kids have grandkids. Fuck that. Thats quitter talk.
I mean who wants to die? Like this guy died.
If you know anyone who could fill this position let me know.
Oh and I'm sure there will be talk about sex and passion and traveling and things that married folk do. Sure we can do all those things, as long as you're happy I know that I can live. See. It all makes sense. Perfect fit.

Basically I always wanted to be Astinus. Actually I always wanted to be dalamar, but thats besides the point. Not that I know everything, nor the need to record everything. But I highly enjoy watching things. People, movies, politics, science and technology. But if I was going to live for a really long time, I'd probably start taking notes and building a library.
I really like libraries.
I work in one. And I like books too.

I honestly think this is a good deal. The person gets a husband and a father, I get to live forever.

The movie doomsday was fucking great.
Here's what I think happened. Neil Marshal was sitting at a desk and said "what movies do I really like:"

I like mad max, even thunderdome.
I like aliens.
I like escape from new york.
I like zombie movies.
I like sword fights.
I like movies with knights and horses and castles. King arthur and hadrian's wall.
I like gladiator.
I like car chase scenes with expensive fast cars. Like those bmw commercials.
I like milla jovovich/kate beckinsale in their respective ass kicking roles.

Okay I got it.
I'll make all of this into ONE movie.
Thats what happened.
Bob and I are in the theater, after he was looking at Escape from LA and was like "do we have escape from new york"
We didn't which is a damn shame. And we decided to go to a movie.
And my dad was like doesn't this movie seem familiar. We were the only ones in the theater so we could talk at random. And he was like escape from new york. And then he was like "what was the movie with the dome".
So if bob is figuring it out.
Thats what happened.
If you think most of those movies/concept are AWESOME. You'll love doomsday.
Live action akira. Joseph Gordon Levitt as tetsuo(perfect)
Dicaprio as Kaneda(horrible.)
I'm so fucking sick of dicaprio its not even funny.And that he is going to be in every marty film from here until he dies makes me want to kind of curl up and cry.

I was going to ramble about downers(people) and flaws. But oh I'd rather do other things.

You should all listen to EVERYTHING Kevin has to say.
Because he's right.About you, himself, and others.
About it all.
Morpheus.

i hate fight club

2008-03-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

So here is the deal on Bill Richardson's endorsement.
I haven't read anything about it but it seems people seem really shocked and that its a "indictment on Hillary".
Please.
Lets look at the facts.
First.
Hillary/Bill most assuredly promised Richardson a VP slot in 2008 were she to win the election. There is no doubt in my mind.
As Obama starting winning it became clear that Hillary had to take Obama as her VP were she to win. Richardson stayed on the sidelines.
And if Obama won and Richardson supported Hillary and campaigned against Obama where would that leave him? No where. And Obama has a latino problem. And if you look at the state by state polls. Obama needs a big name latino guy. NEEDS. Richardson saw the opportunity and took it.
If you look at the state by state polls he loses to mccain or its tied. Hillary wins. Electorally she has a big lead on Mccain.
Richardson wants to be president.
The only way for him to get there is in the Obama administration.
Thats 50 pieces of silver. And Carville said what he said, and he knows what Richardson is doing, and he thinks it sucks. But, he won't back down because he's right.
But I think this burns the Clintons more than you can know, they won't stop and at this point they are willing to have mccain as president for four years and beat obama and then run in 2012.
I think this is excessive and scorched earth. But I really think they are getting slighted just too much by Obama and his supporters to make nice and step out.
I see no grace here on either side. And I'm starting to think Obama is going to lose to John in November. I've solved this race a hundred times for the democrats. But the Obama camp just can't handle it.
I didn't think mccain winning was possible. Now it seems probable.

Tomorrow, my parents get their brand new prius. Its red every package imaginable.
EVERY package. voice activated rust proof leather seats.
But they are just leasing it.
Why?
Because in 4 years the honda fuel cell car will be available.
Thats really their reasoning.
I also have to wait for a dishwasher to come. From the hours of 10-4. How is that even possible.

I haven't downloaded Ghosts yet. So far it sounds great. trent reznor freeing spirits. I also haven't bought the new mars volta album.
I'm going to go do that now.

Here is what Kevin's blog should say:

You are all whores.

Here's what it actually will say.
Man I love jesus and people and animals and chicken salad and crile.

Oh fuck BOWFINGER. Wow. I can't believe I forgot about that movie.
So good.

Also when did Joseph Gordon Levitt become an amazing actor?
Was I asleep?
The Lookout=amazing.
He's the next big thing. Only legit. Unlike heath ledger who was only half-.75 legit.
Dori is fasting. Changing her diet. She's oh about 90% on point. Thats fairly good for switching from evil to vegan.

Goals for today:
Kill Zombies.
Brush Teeth.
Be really mad at chris.
I need to start playing MOL.

Check this out. Wow. Its almost so good I don't know what else to say.