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12.22.2009
12.21.2009
Favorite Pictures I took in 09
It's sort of me, me, me, but whatever, it's my blog.
There were a lot of awesome pictures from 2009 but I was rambling about how excited I've been about the fancy pants camera and I might as well show some of the good ones that have been taken lately. They don't tend to get posted in FB albums or sent to people. "Hey, check out this HOT picture of a tree I took..." Yeah, no.
In no particular order...
Cake from Aaron's rehearsal dinner.
The view from our hotel room @ Aaron's wedding
This one is pretty obvious - pumpkins
The pretty, punished pony
Caramel apples are always a tasty fall snack
She's cute
Vino
It looks sweeter up close.
Reflecting on a tree
Another Round
I think winter is here
It's better in a cup
Twig 'n Berries?
Chirp Chirp
Dandelions
A good view to fall asleep to
...and drink
A good view from the ground
Vroom
Hard to believe he was in a cage
Floral in nature
------
I'm learning that taking photos is like golf. You can get frustrated with shot after shot that isn't capturing exactly what you're hoping to see and then boom, you get that 1 shot, or the string of shots that remind you of why you like to do it.
There were a lot of awesome pictures from 2009 but I was rambling about how excited I've been about the fancy pants camera and I might as well show some of the good ones that have been taken lately. They don't tend to get posted in FB albums or sent to people. "Hey, check out this HOT picture of a tree I took..." Yeah, no.
In no particular order...
Cake from Aaron's rehearsal dinner.
The view from our hotel room @ Aaron's wedding
This one is pretty obvious - pumpkins
The pretty, punished pony
Caramel apples are always a tasty fall snack
She's cute
Vino
It looks sweeter up close.
Reflecting on a tree
Another Round
I think winter is here
It's better in a cup
Twig 'n Berries?
Chirp Chirp
Dandelions
A good view to fall asleep to
...and drink
A good view from the ground
Vroom
Hard to believe he was in a cage
Floral in nature
------
I'm learning that taking photos is like golf. You can get frustrated with shot after shot that isn't capturing exactly what you're hoping to see and then boom, you get that 1 shot, or the string of shots that remind you of why you like to do it.
The best of 2010
It's almost Christmas and then the snowball effect in to NYE comes around and POOF it's 2010. Yikes. That means I'll be turning 29 next year and inching closer to the dreaded 30. What's nuts is - when my mom was 30, she already had 3 kids and I was 12, what the whaaaaa? Most of my pals don't have kids yet but we're getting to that age where people think about it a lot more. Not yet but someday, I'm sure. Which reminds me...
A weekend or so ago, we're at my ring bearer's 2nd birthday party and my mom comes up to Kim, puts her arm around her and says, "Kim, I know what I want for Christmas next year (2010)." Kim replies with, "what's that?" because she just assumed it would be a handbag, something for a camera but not, "I want a grandbaby." YIKES!
On to the post...
It's the end of the year and I think it's only fair to have a random slue of Top this and thats for 2009. Let's see what I can come up with.
Best Album of 2009: Jay-Z; The Blueprint 3.
It's tough to argue this because there are tracks that still give me goosebumps when I hear the beat. The Paramore album is right up there along with The Sounds . The Glee soundtrack is really one of the best things I can keep listening to but none of it is original, only the arrangements. 2009 wasn't the best year musically but there were some good showings.
Best Song of the Year: I can't decide. There've been too many hot songs that were getting radio and play on my stereo from 30h3, Taylor Swift, Kanye, Jay, Jason Mraz and Miley Cyrus. 2009 was a great year for the single but lacked on the album side.
Best Time of the Year: This is easy - 9-19-09. getting married. that whole weekend was a blast. All of the food, the people, the fun, the dancing and the crazy pictures made for a really awesome night.
Best Time Runner Up: Easy again - the bachelor party. Having that many guys, 1 school bus and so many ridiculously fun things go on is right up there as well.
Best Non-Reality Show: Glee. Done & done. It's the best guilty pleasure show I've had in years. It's a closet love show of a lot of people. As Joseph said, "it's the gayest thing I do" and I couldn't agree more. It's dark, funny and...filled with music that tries to give me fun memories of show choir (I only did it 1 year, I swear).
Best Reality Show(s): I can't choose 1. There are ties galore here. Top Chef, SYTYCD, Project Runway (though it was a bit weak this season), Biggest Loser and, most recently, Jersey Shore has to go up there. I had such low expectations for JS and they were met with flying colors.
Best Video Game(s): I'll be fair and give one to each system. Best PS3 game had to be MLB The Show. Crazy realistic but NHL10 could give it a run for its money but it's been spoken and now it must be. As for the 360, I would go with COD:Mw2. It's scary real and has some heavily disturbing moments in it but, despite how frustrated it can make me, I can't get enough of it. I've said the PS3 has the best sports games and it's still holding true. It's cleaner, smoother and looks better than what the 360 has been able to produce. Halo: ODST had it's fun but I feel like it was more of a placeholder for something to do until MW2 came out.
To
p Sad News: Finding out my grandpa has cancer. That one stings. He did just celebrate his 75th birthday, which he finds to be quite the accomplishment but I would agree. He's smoked and drank PBR like it's water for the longest time. His cancer prohibited him from being able to travel to this great state for my wedding which was really too bad. The good news is he's still doing well, he's making a case for PBR to be the next cure for cancer at the rate he takes it down. The cancer hasn't come back yet and he's still in great spirits.
Best Purchase of the year: The Nikon D3000. What a difference a camera can make. It has its ups and downs. The ups - really cool/good pictures. The downside is it's size and the effect it has on the people who see it. haha, when people see a DSLR they pose or spazz out. If it was just a point and shoot then it's cool but you bust out a mongo camera and then it's "woah, woah, what'cha doin with that camera, boy?" Oh well, once I fall into possession of the 35mm lens maybe it'll come off as smaller and still pull off great pictures. That reminds me, I think I'll post some of my favorite pictures taken this year.
Best Non-Wedding Event I Went To: Judah Friedlander. He's hilarious. What was great was how open he was to photo ops and talking after his show. You don't get that vibe with a lot of people but he really seemed like the kind of guy who'd want to chill after a show.
I think that's enough top things for now. 2010 will have plenty more new besties and fun times, no doubt.
A weekend or so ago, we're at my ring bearer's 2nd birthday party and my mom comes up to Kim, puts her arm around her and says, "Kim, I know what I want for Christmas next year (2010)." Kim replies with, "what's that?" because she just assumed it would be a handbag, something for a camera but not, "I want a grandbaby." YIKES!
On to the post...
It's the end of the year and I think it's only fair to have a random slue of Top this and thats for 2009. Let's see what I can come up with.
Best Album of 2009: Jay-Z; The Blueprint 3.
It's tough to argue this because there are tracks that still give me goosebumps when I hear the beat. The Paramore album is right up there along with The Sounds . The Glee soundtrack is really one of the best things I can keep listening to but none of it is original, only the arrangements. 2009 wasn't the best year musically but there were some good showings.
Best Song of the Year: I can't decide. There've been too many hot songs that were getting radio and play on my stereo from 30h3, Taylor Swift, Kanye, Jay, Jason Mraz and Miley Cyrus. 2009 was a great year for the single but lacked on the album side.
Best Time of the Year: This is easy - 9-19-09. getting married. that whole weekend was a blast. All of the food, the people, the fun, the dancing and the crazy pictures made for a really awesome night.Best Time Runner Up: Easy again - the bachelor party. Having that many guys, 1 school bus and so many ridiculously fun things go on is right up there as well.
Best Non-Reality Show: Glee. Done & done. It's the best guilty pleasure show I've had in years. It's a closet love show of a lot of people. As Joseph said, "it's the gayest thing I do" and I couldn't agree more. It's dark, funny and...filled with music that tries to give me fun memories of show choir (I only did it 1 year, I swear).
Best Reality Show(s): I can't choose 1. There are ties galore here. Top Chef, SYTYCD, Project Runway (though it was a bit weak this season), Biggest Loser and, most recently, Jersey Shore has to go up there. I had such low expectations for JS and they were met with flying colors.
Best Video Game(s): I'll be fair and give one to each system. Best PS3 game had to be MLB The Show. Crazy realistic but NHL10 could give it a run for its money but it's been spoken and now it must be. As for the 360, I would go with COD:Mw2. It's scary real and has some heavily disturbing moments in it but, despite how frustrated it can make me, I can't get enough of it. I've said the PS3 has the best sports games and it's still holding true. It's cleaner, smoother and looks better than what the 360 has been able to produce. Halo: ODST had it's fun but I feel like it was more of a placeholder for something to do until MW2 came out.
To
p Sad News: Finding out my grandpa has cancer. That one stings. He did just celebrate his 75th birthday, which he finds to be quite the accomplishment but I would agree. He's smoked and drank PBR like it's water for the longest time. His cancer prohibited him from being able to travel to this great state for my wedding which was really too bad. The good news is he's still doing well, he's making a case for PBR to be the next cure for cancer at the rate he takes it down. The cancer hasn't come back yet and he's still in great spirits.
Best Purchase of the year: The Nikon D3000. What a difference a camera can make. It has its ups and downs. The ups - really cool/good pictures. The downside is it's size and the effect it has on the people who see it. haha, when people see a DSLR they pose or spazz out. If it was just a point and shoot then it's cool but you bust out a mongo camera and then it's "woah, woah, what'cha doin with that camera, boy?" Oh well, once I fall into possession of the 35mm lens maybe it'll come off as smaller and still pull off great pictures. That reminds me, I think I'll post some of my favorite pictures taken this year.
Best Non-Wedding Event I Went To: Judah Friedlander. He's hilarious. What was great was how open he was to photo ops and talking after his show. You don't get that vibe with a lot of people but he really seemed like the kind of guy who'd want to chill after a show.
I think that's enough top things for now. 2010 will have plenty more new besties and fun times, no doubt.
12.14.2009
The Holiday Spirit
I don't care what school you went to or where your pride lies - this IU a cappella group, Straight No Chaser is great. My buddy Meghan Crowson turned me on to them years ago and they're getting big with their Christmas CD. It's worth checking out, either one of them - it's all good and easy to listen to. Here's one of the funnier ones
12.11.2009
i need to blog
so much fun stuff is going on and not enough time to write about it. I blame work. too much work. they look down on me spending corporate dollars and time blogging at my work computer. hmm. Not to mention, there've been plenty of stupid people encounters lately that I want to share freely.
i need a website, other than facebook, that people will check pictures out on. i have one where i can share and you can download the pics at full resolution. might use it for such upcoming events as the Chili Cook Off or the Ugly Sweater Party.
UFC = yes
Chili Cook Off = yes
The holidays almost being here = yes again
NYE, 2010, Vegas, USP2.5 and whatever else comes my way = double yes
I'll blog, I really will...but for now I'm going to get my sleeps on.
i need a website, other than facebook, that people will check pictures out on. i have one where i can share and you can download the pics at full resolution. might use it for such upcoming events as the Chili Cook Off or the Ugly Sweater Party.
UFC = yes
Chili Cook Off = yes
The holidays almost being here = yes again
NYE, 2010, Vegas, USP2.5 and whatever else comes my way = double yes
I'll blog, I really will...but for now I'm going to get my sleeps on.
11.20.2009
11.06.2009
11.02.2009
10.15.2009
I'm like a 35w bulb in a 60w socket
One of these days I'll remember that I'm not in college anymore. I just figure that my body will adjust, seemingly overnight (aaaah no pun intended), to 6 hours or so of sleep. Nope.
I wonder if all of the dreary clouds play a role in it too because, when it's rainy and dark out, I just want to sleep.
Then again, if it were sunny out I'd want to sleep as well.
I think corporate America should institute nap time. As a kindergartner we would fight it but now I would love it. Just 2 short, beautiful hours. :)
Ok, blogging at work gets people in trouble here so I'm done. 
Up, Up and Awaaay
I'm refusing to sleep, which I'll regret in the morning.
See - if I go to bed then I stop doing stuff. Sleep is great but I'm far too active of a brain to sloooow dooown, fully knowing that I should. Sleep isn't for the weak, it's for the sleepy.
I also figure, the sooner I go to bed the sooner I have to wake my ass up and convince myself that it's a good idea to get ready and go to work.
I don't mind working but same days I mind the work that I do.
Pros and cons to thangs right now. One pro is a wine rack that will give us more space (despite that the fact that it takes up space) and allow my secret type A-ness to be subsided when the wine has a home to go to. It looks nice and it'll be a piece that will have use for years to come.
Another Pro are the upcoming parties Kim and I are wanting to plan. Whether it's the next Ugly Sweater Party or the 3rd annual chili cook-off (maybe more like semi annual, I can't remember) - there's always something I want to be doing.
After thinking about it - I still want to explore the idea of the pot luck party. Each person chooses one of the courses/sides to bring/make and a drink to go with it (whether it be beer, wine or other). That way the party is well fed and boozed at the equal cost amongst everything.
I'm past the point where I can openly fund for everyone's weekend drinking habits. It's not because I can't afford to do so but because I know anyone who hangs out can afford to do so. Plus, I like it when friends bring over beverages because you have the opportunity to try what they like and become more exposed and taint your liver even further.
Speaking of friends - I wonder if the common trend that happens to so many post-married couples will happen to Kim and I. On more than one occasion, I've heard how people's friends slowly dissipate once they get married. I hear it's worse after you have kids. But even looking at my wedding party - I can already foresee some of them falling off the face of the earth. Having them in my wedding was the only real hope of maintaining any real contact for the past year and a half. Now that the festivities are dormant - they may become dormant as well. Makes you wonder if it's something to be sad over or just consider it life? The good pals will stick around or new ones will appear.
Some people just become so self indulged in their own happenings that they slip away all on their own. I'm all for hanging out with whoever whenever, but if you become self centered in how you treat others, well, then you can be on the B list for everything. :) I don't have time for dramatics as I near the ripe old age of 30. I've still got 2 years until that dreadful bell rings.
Mmm, yup. I have to say too - that dancing bear still cracks me up. That fucker just dances and dances - nonstop.
It's week 6 in the NFL season and I've yet to just sit around and have a NFL Sunday with friends. That bites it hard. I miss the occasional Saturday night blow out of rowdiness and debauchery followed with a slow rise to the 11am sun, the last-minute checks on fantasy teams and 6 straight hours of trash talking, football watching fun time. 2-3 hours into it we decide to order too much pizza and begin coating our livers again...until the night game - where 2/3 of the people bail out and the rest vegetate through the night game before calling it quits. That stopping, I feel, is a matter of priorities and not age. People start to date people or have other shit going on so they don't have a full day to dedicate to laziness and football. But - every so often it would be fun. You might have other things to do but that mild hangover keeps you from actually getting up, moving or becoming a productive member of society. Maybe just once this NFL season that type of shindig can conspire. :)
I think that's all I have for this ramblicious post.
See - if I go to bed then I stop doing stuff. Sleep is great but I'm far too active of a brain to sloooow dooown, fully knowing that I should. Sleep isn't for the weak, it's for the sleepy.
I also figure, the sooner I go to bed the sooner I have to wake my ass up and convince myself that it's a good idea to get ready and go to work.
I don't mind working but same days I mind the work that I do.
Pros and cons to thangs right now. One pro is a wine rack that will give us more space (despite that the fact that it takes up space) and allow my secret type A-ness to be subsided when the wine has a home to go to. It looks nice and it'll be a piece that will have use for years to come.
Another Pro are the upcoming parties Kim and I are wanting to plan. Whether it's the next Ugly Sweater Party or the 3rd annual chili cook-off (maybe more like semi annual, I can't remember) - there's always something I want to be doing.
After thinking about it - I still want to explore the idea of the pot luck party. Each person chooses one of the courses/sides to bring/make and a drink to go with it (whether it be beer, wine or other). That way the party is well fed and boozed at the equal cost amongst everything.
I'm past the point where I can openly fund for everyone's weekend drinking habits. It's not because I can't afford to do so but because I know anyone who hangs out can afford to do so. Plus, I like it when friends bring over beverages because you have the opportunity to try what they like and become more exposed and taint your liver even further.
Speaking of friends - I wonder if the common trend that happens to so many post-married couples will happen to Kim and I. On more than one occasion, I've heard how people's friends slowly dissipate once they get married. I hear it's worse after you have kids. But even looking at my wedding party - I can already foresee some of them falling off the face of the earth. Having them in my wedding was the only real hope of maintaining any real contact for the past year and a half. Now that the festivities are dormant - they may become dormant as well. Makes you wonder if it's something to be sad over or just consider it life? The good pals will stick around or new ones will appear.
Some people just become so self indulged in their own happenings that they slip away all on their own. I'm all for hanging out with whoever whenever, but if you become self centered in how you treat others, well, then you can be on the B list for everything. :) I don't have time for dramatics as I near the ripe old age of 30. I've still got 2 years until that dreadful bell rings.
Mmm, yup. I have to say too - that dancing bear still cracks me up. That fucker just dances and dances - nonstop.
It's week 6 in the NFL season and I've yet to just sit around and have a NFL Sunday with friends. That bites it hard. I miss the occasional Saturday night blow out of rowdiness and debauchery followed with a slow rise to the 11am sun, the last-minute checks on fantasy teams and 6 straight hours of trash talking, football watching fun time. 2-3 hours into it we decide to order too much pizza and begin coating our livers again...until the night game - where 2/3 of the people bail out and the rest vegetate through the night game before calling it quits. That stopping, I feel, is a matter of priorities and not age. People start to date people or have other shit going on so they don't have a full day to dedicate to laziness and football. But - every so often it would be fun. You might have other things to do but that mild hangover keeps you from actually getting up, moving or becoming a productive member of society. Maybe just once this NFL season that type of shindig can conspire. :)
I think that's all I have for this ramblicious post.
10.05.2009
I ramble a lot, there's no hiding that
Alright, so I can't sleep, so I'll ramble my face off with some blogging action.
I didn't get to choose the below text. You have to thank Snapfish for that...thanks?
If you're wanting to explore some honeymoon photos, feel free to click below.
I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
What else, what else.
Going back to corporate America today, after nearly 3 weeks off, was painful. Things are so dry and blown out of importance proportion.
I think Portland was so relaxing because it really did feel like a college town. Aside from the sense of no responsibility for so much, it was a great place to be. It felt like a town of no consequence. I could open my own business and be doing alright for myself - as long as I got the community behind me. We met some wine makers who lived in Dallas, became sick of the corporate life - went and sold everything and bought a winery and haven't looked back. I don't have balls that big, but it's cool to see people do that.
If I had nuts that big and was willing to risk things that heavy - I'd attempt to keep my job or quit it and get some part time crap work and go back to school and get a masters in teaching and go teach. But for as crappy as corporate America truly is - it offers some perks that are hard to compete with. Benefits, insurance are boring but so useful. Plus, the comfort of M-F, 9-5ish is reassuring. That and the overabundance of days off that I'm given. I work in a place that rewards mediocrity (which blows my mind) but it could be worse.
If I went and taught, I might end up hating it or loving it. But - I'd gain a summer and yet lose 1/2 my salary. Mmm...nope. I enjoy my weekend nights out, new beer, eating out and about, going to concerts and buying stuff I want. Pros and cons to it all.
Let me see...what else.
New Music?
MIKA - The Boy Who Knew Too Much
Well, it's good if you like Mika. It's a lot like his first album. Ultra poppy, with a lot of high notes and catchy hooks. It'll grow on me. 1/2 of it is good and I want to listen to it some more. I'm happy to burn it for whoever. I give it a B.
Paramore - Brand New Eyes
Their last CD was really good and their new album picks up where the last left off. It's worth the $10 on iTunes. She can sing and they can rock. Another CD I'm happy to burn but it's worth the money if you liked their last album. It's easy to listen to over and over again. It gets a big, bright, shiny A
More wedding talk?...
Mine is over. It was fantastic. Kim looked amazing. The reception was legendary. Everyone made it a night to remember. The dance floor was always full and so was everyone's stomach. I'm not sure how it could have gone any better. I am still waiting to see if a certain bridesmaid and groomsmen hooked it up but that may be left better as a mystery.
T
he honeymoon was awesome (see above pictures).
It all coasted by so fast. Portland is a place I'd love to go back to with friends who love beer and food.
They love their micro brews. Everything was very laid back and enjoyable. The homeless people were all hippies (for the most part). Portland also HAS to have the most people in power wheelchairs per capita than anywhere else in the country. That and pregnant people. So many preggers poppin around town. A sign in itself. I was able to drive a Prius the whole trip. Drove 450 miles and only spent $35 on gas. That was beautiful. The car is surprisingly fun to drive and made me want to hug some trees. So I did in the mountains.
This weekend is Aaron's bachelor party. That boy gets hitched in just a fe
w short weeks. And in a week he'll get to experience those unexplained stessors and questions about "is this done and is this finished and who is on this?" I'm here to help him and I'm sure the wedding will go off w/o any problems. His party shall be a relaxed evening of booze and men. It'll be an interesting group of men (from who I know is attending). Scotch can make men feisty so that should add to the interestingness of the group dynamic. But, if all goes well, Mr. G will be sound asleep in Scotch by 12:05 central standard time. Haha, just kidding aaron, you can make it until 1215!
And lastly, saw Richie's pad tonight. It's still being unpacked but it's good to see he and Kate back out and about on their own. It's a spot in a good area of town. There's much for them and pals to do, yet close enough to still come out and play with the rest of the group when he's not bar hopping. I think with the location of Gilger being 2min away - that lad will be out with the group a lot more than we've seen in the past. We're always cool to add as many new people to the posse as possible. As long as you like to hang out, drink it up, play games, maybe bowl, watch bad movies and have a good time - you'll get along fine. But his place (Richie and Kate's) will turn out to look good once Richie polishes up that man cave of his ;). I know he's happy to be out and in a more centralized location. they're social creatures and being able to get out easily will keep the smiles coming.
I'm sure there's more I could rattle on about. I feel bad if anyone's read through all of
this. Congrats, I've helped you kill 20 minutes and get a little less smart. Oops.
Speaking of things that don't make you smarter...TV - I love GLEE! Maybe I shouldn't, but it's dark, there's music, it bring me back to some HS moments and there's good music. I don't tend to watch actual TV shows (that's not a reality show) but this one shows promise.
Yeah, Monday is done and it's time to pretend to go to bed.
Go Vikes.
And let's go weekend - there's some fun to have after the 6 hour drive to mighty MN.
Let's see how adjusting to work goes this week and how long it takes before I say something snappy to someone takes work too seriously.
Rambling complete for tonight, yet still so much shit to babble about...
I didn't get to choose the below text. You have to thank Snapfish for that...thanks?
If you're wanting to explore some honeymoon photos, feel free to click below.
I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
What else, what else.
Going back to corporate America today, after nearly 3 weeks off, was painful. Things are so dry and blown out of importance proportion.
I think Portland was so relaxing because it really did feel like a college town. Aside from the sense of no responsibility for so much, it was a great place to be. It felt like a town of no consequence. I could open my own business and be doing alright for myself - as long as I got the community behind me. We met some wine makers who lived in Dallas, became sick of the corporate life - went and sold everything and bought a winery and haven't looked back. I don't have balls that big, but it's cool to see people do that.
If I had nuts that big and was willing to risk things that heavy - I'd attempt to keep my job or quit it and get some part time crap work and go back to school and get a masters in teaching and go teach. But for as crappy as corporate America truly is - it offers some perks that are hard to compete with. Benefits, insurance are boring but so useful. Plus, the comfort of M-F, 9-5ish is reassuring. That and the overabundance of days off that I'm given. I work in a place that rewards mediocrity (which blows my mind) but it could be worse.
If I went and taught, I might end up hating it or loving it. But - I'd gain a summer and yet lose 1/2 my salary. Mmm...nope. I enjoy my weekend nights out, new beer, eating out and about, going to concerts and buying stuff I want. Pros and cons to it all.
Let me see...what else.
New Music?
MIKA - The Boy Who Knew Too Much
Well, it's good if you like Mika. It's a lot like his first album. Ultra poppy, with a lot of high notes and catchy hooks. It'll grow on me. 1/2 of it is good and I want to listen to it some more. I'm happy to burn it for whoever. I give it a B.
Paramore - Brand New Eyes
Their last CD was really good and their new album picks up where the last left off. It's worth the $10 on iTunes. She can sing and they can rock. Another CD I'm happy to burn but it's worth the money if you liked their last album. It's easy to listen to over and over again. It gets a big, bright, shiny A
More wedding talk?...
Mine is over. It was fantastic. Kim looked amazing. The reception was legendary. Everyone made it a night to remember. The dance floor was always full and so was everyone's stomach. I'm not sure how it could have gone any better. I am still waiting to see if a certain bridesmaid and groomsmen hooked it up but that may be left better as a mystery.
T
he honeymoon was awesome (see above pictures).It all coasted by so fast. Portland is a place I'd love to go back to with friends who love beer and food.
They love their micro brews. Everything was very laid back and enjoyable. The homeless people were all hippies (for the most part). Portland also HAS to have the most people in power wheelchairs per capita than anywhere else in the country. That and pregnant people. So many preggers poppin around town. A sign in itself. I was able to drive a Prius the whole trip. Drove 450 miles and only spent $35 on gas. That was beautiful. The car is surprisingly fun to drive and made me want to hug some trees. So I did in the mountains.
This weekend is Aaron's bachelor party. That boy gets hitched in just a fe
w short weeks. And in a week he'll get to experience those unexplained stessors and questions about "is this done and is this finished and who is on this?" I'm here to help him and I'm sure the wedding will go off w/o any problems. His party shall be a relaxed evening of booze and men. It'll be an interesting group of men (from who I know is attending). Scotch can make men feisty so that should add to the interestingness of the group dynamic. But, if all goes well, Mr. G will be sound asleep in Scotch by 12:05 central standard time. Haha, just kidding aaron, you can make it until 1215!And lastly, saw Richie's pad tonight. It's still being unpacked but it's good to see he and Kate back out and about on their own. It's a spot in a good area of town. There's much for them and pals to do, yet close enough to still come out and play with the rest of the group when he's not bar hopping. I think with the location of Gilger being 2min away - that lad will be out with the group a lot more than we've seen in the past. We're always cool to add as many new people to the posse as possible. As long as you like to hang out, drink it up, play games, maybe bowl, watch bad movies and have a good time - you'll get along fine. But his place (Richie and Kate's) will turn out to look good once Richie polishes up that man cave of his ;). I know he's happy to be out and in a more centralized location. they're social creatures and being able to get out easily will keep the smiles coming.
I'm sure there's more I could rattle on about. I feel bad if anyone's read through all of
this. Congrats, I've helped you kill 20 minutes and get a little less smart. Oops.Speaking of things that don't make you smarter...TV - I love GLEE! Maybe I shouldn't, but it's dark, there's music, it bring me back to some HS moments and there's good music. I don't tend to watch actual TV shows (that's not a reality show) but this one shows promise.
Yeah, Monday is done and it's time to pretend to go to bed.
Go Vikes.
And let's go weekend - there's some fun to have after the 6 hour drive to mighty MN.
Let's see how adjusting to work goes this week and how long it takes before I say something snappy to someone takes work too seriously.
Rambling complete for tonight, yet still so much shit to babble about...
9.16.2009
Even more music
I'll keep these short and sweet. It's late and these 2 albums speak for themselves.
Artist: Jay-Z
Album: The Blueprint 3
This awesome is nuts. Death of Autotune, Empire State of Mind, On to the Next One...I - yeah, this album is sick. Sick. Sick. Best track so far -- Off That. J made an album that can land in the club but keeps it heavy and his beats are well paid for. If you even kind of like Jay-Z get this album.
A
Artist: Kid Cudi
Album: Man on the Moon: The End of the Day
Get this one too. Cudi is already big but he's going to get bigger. The beats are simple but strong. I don't even care what he's rapping about. It's catchy bob-your-head rap. Like the song, this album is "Simple As...that." This is another album worth the purchase.
A
8.27.2009
New Music
I'm awake, I might as well ramble on about something.
Things have felt so busy lately that I haven't sat down and downloaded loads of unnecessary music or enjoyed the tunes that others have shared (thanks, Dustin).
I love new music. So, how about some new music album reviews...but the abridged and ramblicious versions? Nothing too deep or in depth. You're already reading so why stop now?
**Note** Some of the albums are terrible and I download them just because I can :). Also note - I may give it a rating but, knowing me, it could change at any given time depending on how I soak it up and change my mind...
We'll start at the top...
Artist: All Time Low
Album: Nothing Personal
Here's the thing, I've never been as in to punk like music until towards the end of college and dating Kim and most of the time I still don't like it, but this album changes my mind about the genre. It could be because punk has gone pop. It's filled with catchy hooks and has a bubble gum feel to it, which isn't bad...it's just what it is. All Time Low, for what I know of them, keep getting better to my ear. This whole album is fantastic. I'm trying to pick 1 song that stands out but they all are easy to listen to. "Lost in the Stereo" sticks out the most. Again, it's because I can hear it on the radio or would want to play it while rocking it out at the bowling alley. On any note, this is an album shared by D and I'm glad he did, it's really good. So, if you're into the punk pop sound, check this out. A-
Artist: Brooke Hogan
Album: The Redemption
I can only assume someone gave her another album because it was a. in her contract or b. because of the 6-month-ago tabloid coverage of her family and the nasty divorce the Hulk is going through. I understand B more than A. I would have canceled her contract and taken the heat her lawyers would have brought. This album is terrible. Are there songs that will be heard in a club? Yes. Are there songs that some Disney movie may use during some cheesy thought provoking scene? I hope not. But even with the celebrity visits from Flo Rida or the unheard of Urban Mystic, the album still can't get above water. Cracked out, tramped Britney makes better things in her post-hangover toilet. I'd rather have a new album by Dream. Everything is pretty sex driven. Maybe Brooke is your kind of girl but not for me. With all of her sex-loaded lyrics...if she's trying to get with me she should really have a song called "I'm pretty in the dark." As I coast from song to song I hear way too much auto-tune. I wrote too much already. Wait for a single or two before checking out this album, but please don't buy it. D-
Artist: Cobra Starship
Album: Hot Mess
Their second song title says it best: Pete Wentz Is The Only Reason We're Famous. Even if it's true, the album is still fun. They were first getting bigger when they landed on the Snakes on a Plane soundtrack and though the radio is currently flooded with "Good Girls Go Bad" this album still has some fun to it. Though it's fun, most of the album sounds like it's hoping it'll be the next radio song, just like Good Girls has become. If it's true then good for them. Make your money while you can. Um...I don't find myself trying to them off. It's fun, poppy, easy to listen to and there are a lot of fun lyrics and good riffs. Why not? C+
Artist: Dirty Heads
Album: Any Port in a Storm
Well, who said white guys can't rap to some reggae? Not me. This record is perfect for summer. When I listen to it I want a beer in hand, games going on and friends around me. It's a good album for the car with the windows down. They don't sing about anything earth shattering, but who cares, right? I prefer Matisyahu but that doesn't mean this can't be fun and you shouldn't listen to it. It's definitely worth the time. If you like white guys who rap, get their reggae on and listen to tunes about guys having a good time then check it out. B-
Artist: Hit the Lights
Album: Coast to Coast
If you like HTL then you'd like, what I can only assume this is, their new EP. It's got fast, medium and slow. I don't know what they're trying to go for, all 6 songs worth, but I think they're still relatively young/new and they'll get even better in time. B-
Artist: Ingrid Michaelson
Album: Everybody
I'm a big fan of Ingrid and I was happy to see that she didn't go all off the wall for her next album. I'll admit, it's pretty "mom rock," but it's catchy. This album easily has 3 or 4 songs that can make it on to the radio and make Ingris a lot of money. Does that mean there's a "sell out" sound to her? Not at all. She has a soothing voice and she just sings about guys/life/experience/love...typical girl schtuff. Maybe is a good song but the best song, with a poppy, makes-you-chew-bubble-gum feel would be "Everybody." It's the kind of song you'd hear in an Apple commercial or during the next Kate Hudson/Jennifer Anniston love chick flick movie. I'm a sucker for the mom rock because at times, like I enjoy my movies, I like something simple and happy. Plus, she's not too overplayed yet which is key. If you like music that's happy and will probably make you happy...and you're a fan of the mom rock - I'd get this or at least download Everybody. B+
Artist: Jet
Album: Shake Rock
Jet is awesome. Done and done.
This album has slowed down in comparison to their previous album but it doesn't stop it from being a good album. It's a simple rock sound. It's easy to turn up. Now, I haven't found anything as catchy as "Cold hearted bitch" or "are you gonna be my girl," but "La Di Da" and "Times Like This" are catchy. I like it. I dig on the guys voice and the sound they make. Do I recommend buying it? Mmm...if you're a jet fan then yes. If you're not, I wouldn't but I'll make you a copy. B-
Artist: Kings of Leon
Album: Only by the Light
I don't get what the hype is over these guys. It's an old sound but it's nothing new. I tried getting into "Use Somebody" but I can't. The more I listen to the album the more I find the lead singer to be a 1 trick pony. Seriously, listen to a song or 3 and he does the same note progression in each song. Low, Low, High. If someone gets why they're becoming as big as they are please let me know. I downloaded this with hopes that the album would get better than "Use Somebody," but...eh. I'm not impressed, at least not yet. D
Artist: Lights
Album: Lights - EP
Mellow, easy to listen to and she has a good voice. It's a pity this album only has 6 songs. A mild techno backbeat, some basic drums and just her singing. It's not overly complicated and that's appreciated. I like this EP a lot. It's relaxing. I don't have much to add...it's just a good album. Go get it. B+
Artist: Millionaires
Albums(s): Bling, Bling, Bling!-EP & Just got Paid, Let's Get Laid - EP
Christ, I don't even know how to start with these girls. It's so obnoxious yet so genius. "Girls talk shit, we don't care, we'll take off our underwear...come get fucked...gimme my alcohol...a-l-c-o-h-o-l..."
I wanted to hate them. They're irritating but god damn I can't shake them out of my brain. 3 girls who sing about fucking, drinking, bitches, getting naked and did I mention getting drunk? With songs like "I like alcohol," In my bed," and "talk shit," you know you're in for a treat. If you think it sounds like 3 sex-driven booze bitches are just trying to sing into their mac with drum/dance beats...then I'd agree, but dammit, you won't be able to shake their lyrics out of your head. It'll make a party rock and make your friends wonder wtf is wrong with you. I want to hear a full album before I can regretably give them an A, but for now...B
Artist: Passion Pit
Album: Manners
Another album compliments of Dustin. He gets a lot of tunes but says he doesn't have the time to listen to them all, which is too bad because this one, for whatever reason, has me hooked. I know nothing about this group but the lead singer, a guy, loves to sing really high. Like...higher than Mika in "Grace Kelly" high (speaking of which, he has a new album out soon). "Little Secrets" has to be the best song on this album. The album is full of techno beats, a man with a voice that's far too high, but catchy beats and lyrics. It's not my kind of album (or is it) but, like I said, I can't get enough of it. Give it a listen. It's really awesome and different. Should you buy it? Why not? Support someone new. I didn't but you should. :) It'll add some variety to the iPod and there's never anything wrong with that. A-
Artist: The Sounds
Album: Crossing the Rubicon
Another band I tried to hate, but I can't. This album made me switch my feelings about them. I'm going to have to give their older stuff another listen. (thanks, D) Drum, guitar and a catchy bass line is all the Sounds need. The lead singers voice is tough to describe in terms of a comparison. It's a futuristic retro sound to my ear. They add techno backbeats at the right time. Again, not much to say. It's worth a listen. Best songs are...pretty much the whole album, but I do really like "Lost in Love" and "Beatbox." If the sound is up your alley then I'd bet it's worth the buy. I can't seem to find much wrong with this album which kills me. Keep this sound coming and I'll keep getting more and more into The Sounds. A
******
I had more new albums than I had thought. Whatev, I like it. I didn't need sleep that much anyway. Hope my ramblings helped make you go buy and avoid some of the new tunes that are out there. There's always so much crap being pushed out nowadays but it's good to hear when some good albums are actually made (ie The Sounds and All Time Low). Alright time to sleep.
Things have felt so busy lately that I haven't sat down and downloaded loads of unnecessary music or enjoyed the tunes that others have shared (thanks, Dustin).
I love new music. So, how about some new music album reviews...but the abridged and ramblicious versions? Nothing too deep or in depth. You're already reading so why stop now?
**Note** Some of the albums are terrible and I download them just because I can :). Also note - I may give it a rating but, knowing me, it could change at any given time depending on how I soak it up and change my mind...
We'll start at the top...
Artist: All Time Low
Album: Nothing Personal
Here's the thing, I've never been as in to punk like music until towards the end of college and dating Kim and most of the time I still don't like it, but this album changes my mind about the genre. It could be because punk has gone pop. It's filled with catchy hooks and has a bubble gum feel to it, which isn't bad...it's just what it is. All Time Low, for what I know of them, keep getting better to my ear. This whole album is fantastic. I'm trying to pick 1 song that stands out but they all are easy to listen to. "Lost in the Stereo" sticks out the most. Again, it's because I can hear it on the radio or would want to play it while rocking it out at the bowling alley. On any note, this is an album shared by D and I'm glad he did, it's really good. So, if you're into the punk pop sound, check this out. A-
Artist: Brooke Hogan
Album: The Redemption
I can only assume someone gave her another album because it was a. in her contract or b. because of the 6-month-ago tabloid coverage of her family and the nasty divorce the Hulk is going through. I understand B more than A. I would have canceled her contract and taken the heat her lawyers would have brought. This album is terrible. Are there songs that will be heard in a club? Yes. Are there songs that some Disney movie may use during some cheesy thought provoking scene? I hope not. But even with the celebrity visits from Flo Rida or the unheard of Urban Mystic, the album still can't get above water. Cracked out, tramped Britney makes better things in her post-hangover toilet. I'd rather have a new album by Dream. Everything is pretty sex driven. Maybe Brooke is your kind of girl but not for me. With all of her sex-loaded lyrics...if she's trying to get with me she should really have a song called "I'm pretty in the dark." As I coast from song to song I hear way too much auto-tune. I wrote too much already. Wait for a single or two before checking out this album, but please don't buy it. D-
Artist: Cobra Starship
Album: Hot Mess
Their second song title says it best: Pete Wentz Is The Only Reason We're Famous. Even if it's true, the album is still fun. They were first getting bigger when they landed on the Snakes on a Plane soundtrack and though the radio is currently flooded with "Good Girls Go Bad" this album still has some fun to it. Though it's fun, most of the album sounds like it's hoping it'll be the next radio song, just like Good Girls has become. If it's true then good for them. Make your money while you can. Um...I don't find myself trying to them off. It's fun, poppy, easy to listen to and there are a lot of fun lyrics and good riffs. Why not? C+
Artist: Dirty Heads
Album: Any Port in a Storm
Well, who said white guys can't rap to some reggae? Not me. This record is perfect for summer. When I listen to it I want a beer in hand, games going on and friends around me. It's a good album for the car with the windows down. They don't sing about anything earth shattering, but who cares, right? I prefer Matisyahu but that doesn't mean this can't be fun and you shouldn't listen to it. It's definitely worth the time. If you like white guys who rap, get their reggae on and listen to tunes about guys having a good time then check it out. B-
Artist: Hit the Lights
Album: Coast to Coast
If you like HTL then you'd like, what I can only assume this is, their new EP. It's got fast, medium and slow. I don't know what they're trying to go for, all 6 songs worth, but I think they're still relatively young/new and they'll get even better in time. B-
Artist: Ingrid Michaelson
Album: Everybody
I'm a big fan of Ingrid and I was happy to see that she didn't go all off the wall for her next album. I'll admit, it's pretty "mom rock," but it's catchy. This album easily has 3 or 4 songs that can make it on to the radio and make Ingris a lot of money. Does that mean there's a "sell out" sound to her? Not at all. She has a soothing voice and she just sings about guys/life/experience/love...typical girl schtuff. Maybe is a good song but the best song, with a poppy, makes-you-chew-bubble-gum feel would be "Everybody." It's the kind of song you'd hear in an Apple commercial or during the next Kate Hudson/Jennifer Anniston love chick flick movie. I'm a sucker for the mom rock because at times, like I enjoy my movies, I like something simple and happy. Plus, she's not too overplayed yet which is key. If you like music that's happy and will probably make you happy...and you're a fan of the mom rock - I'd get this or at least download Everybody. B+
Artist: Jet
Album: Shake Rock
Jet is awesome. Done and done.
This album has slowed down in comparison to their previous album but it doesn't stop it from being a good album. It's a simple rock sound. It's easy to turn up. Now, I haven't found anything as catchy as "Cold hearted bitch" or "are you gonna be my girl," but "La Di Da" and "Times Like This" are catchy. I like it. I dig on the guys voice and the sound they make. Do I recommend buying it? Mmm...if you're a jet fan then yes. If you're not, I wouldn't but I'll make you a copy. B-
Artist: Kings of Leon
Album: Only by the Light
I don't get what the hype is over these guys. It's an old sound but it's nothing new. I tried getting into "Use Somebody" but I can't. The more I listen to the album the more I find the lead singer to be a 1 trick pony. Seriously, listen to a song or 3 and he does the same note progression in each song. Low, Low, High. If someone gets why they're becoming as big as they are please let me know. I downloaded this with hopes that the album would get better than "Use Somebody," but...eh. I'm not impressed, at least not yet. D
Artist: Lights
Album: Lights - EP
Mellow, easy to listen to and she has a good voice. It's a pity this album only has 6 songs. A mild techno backbeat, some basic drums and just her singing. It's not overly complicated and that's appreciated. I like this EP a lot. It's relaxing. I don't have much to add...it's just a good album. Go get it. B+
Artist: Millionaires
Albums(s): Bling, Bling, Bling!-EP & Just got Paid, Let's Get Laid - EP
Christ, I don't even know how to start with these girls. It's so obnoxious yet so genius. "Girls talk shit, we don't care, we'll take off our underwear...come get fucked...gimme my alcohol...a-l-c-o-h-o-l..."
I wanted to hate them. They're irritating but god damn I can't shake them out of my brain. 3 girls who sing about fucking, drinking, bitches, getting naked and did I mention getting drunk? With songs like "I like alcohol," In my bed," and "talk shit," you know you're in for a treat. If you think it sounds like 3 sex-driven booze bitches are just trying to sing into their mac with drum/dance beats...then I'd agree, but dammit, you won't be able to shake their lyrics out of your head. It'll make a party rock and make your friends wonder wtf is wrong with you. I want to hear a full album before I can regretably give them an A, but for now...B
Artist: Passion Pit
Album: Manners
Another album compliments of Dustin. He gets a lot of tunes but says he doesn't have the time to listen to them all, which is too bad because this one, for whatever reason, has me hooked. I know nothing about this group but the lead singer, a guy, loves to sing really high. Like...higher than Mika in "Grace Kelly" high (speaking of which, he has a new album out soon). "Little Secrets" has to be the best song on this album. The album is full of techno beats, a man with a voice that's far too high, but catchy beats and lyrics. It's not my kind of album (or is it) but, like I said, I can't get enough of it. Give it a listen. It's really awesome and different. Should you buy it? Why not? Support someone new. I didn't but you should. :) It'll add some variety to the iPod and there's never anything wrong with that. A-
Artist: The Sounds
Album: Crossing the Rubicon
Another band I tried to hate, but I can't. This album made me switch my feelings about them. I'm going to have to give their older stuff another listen. (thanks, D) Drum, guitar and a catchy bass line is all the Sounds need. The lead singers voice is tough to describe in terms of a comparison. It's a futuristic retro sound to my ear. They add techno backbeats at the right time. Again, not much to say. It's worth a listen. Best songs are...pretty much the whole album, but I do really like "Lost in Love" and "Beatbox." If the sound is up your alley then I'd bet it's worth the buy. I can't seem to find much wrong with this album which kills me. Keep this sound coming and I'll keep getting more and more into The Sounds. A
******
I had more new albums than I had thought. Whatev, I like it. I didn't need sleep that much anyway. Hope my ramblings helped make you go buy and avoid some of the new tunes that are out there. There's always so much crap being pushed out nowadays but it's good to hear when some good albums are actually made (ie The Sounds and All Time Low). Alright time to sleep.
8.23.2009
Nerf Wars
I forgot to mention something I am also looking forward to in these upcoming chilly months. It means more indoor fun. We're always looking for variety and I may have found some. ...since we've moved I have said "I want to put a chest in the upstairs closer...fill it with nerf guns and have a nerf gun fight in the house." Kim kept telling me it'll happen and I think I'm finally believing her.
So, this fall...this winter...prepare yourself for an in-house slaughtering with NERF WAAAAARS!!! (coming soon to my house near you). Who's in?!
So, this fall...this winter...prepare yourself for an in-house slaughtering with NERF WAAAAARS!!! (coming soon to my house near you). Who's in?!
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