I can't think of another way to post this video outside of facebook.
Let's hope this works.
Enjoy, Kev.
10.19.2010
7.25.2010
Does anyone read this anymore?
I forgot I had this.
Hmm...to keep up with it or not? I do not know.
My babbling has been kept to 140 characters or less lately.
Super fast recap - photography things are starting to go a place or two.
I need a website. I need help. I don't have a ton to put towards it. Ugh.
First, I should buck up for my very own domain name. Ideas?
Then, before people keep thinking what I shoot is really that great, I really do need to upgrade my camera body. It's a chunk of change but if I'm liking it like I am...and people want me to get to shooting around them...I should really invest in it. Not only that but it'll provide me with a second camera. Mmm...
Randomly - one of my buddy's, Ben, just showed me a sweet, sweet video. It's something this company/person does for weddings. And when they're as good as this one they're really cool to watch. Sweet. http://bruedesign.com/thecaptureblog2/?p=180
Check it out.
Video's not something I want to dabble in. I've my hands full with pictures at this point.
Other pointless to others news - I need to brand myself at some point. Working on contracts.
I took my camera in for its first cleaning. It was a dirty, dirty camera. The 35mm was dirty too. it kept giving the weirdest glares in non-sunny situations. A few bucks and a day from now I'll have it back and ready to rock.
Speaking of shooting (because it's all I really talk about to myself or to Kim...sorry Kim) I had some friends ask me to shoot their wedding on a 7 day cruise. And as awesome as that would have been, 7 days on a boat by myself would have been an interesting experience. I had other reasons for turning it down but that was a big one. I did refer them to people who I know could destroy that cruise with awesomeness and shoot their wedding better than I ever could. You know who are. Keep a look out.
I also had someone I knew/know tell me they were quoted a mere $450 to shoot their wedding. Err...how? All the more power to them but that sounds too good to be true, ya know? No matter.
How about the best site to use to sell things? People on FB expressed interest in buying pictures of some of the things I shot (which surprised me) and I don't have the first clue. There's smugmug.com - anything else? exposuremanager.com?
Yeah, that's it. That's all I've got. I'm constantly bottled up with photographer questions, thoughts and doings. Poor Kim is the outlet for it all. Sorry, babe! I need to make photography friends out here because I don't want to bore the hell out of my pals here about it. Yup. the end.
Hmm...to keep up with it or not? I do not know.
My babbling has been kept to 140 characters or less lately.
Super fast recap - photography things are starting to go a place or two.
I need a website. I need help. I don't have a ton to put towards it. Ugh.
First, I should buck up for my very own domain name. Ideas?
Then, before people keep thinking what I shoot is really that great, I really do need to upgrade my camera body. It's a chunk of change but if I'm liking it like I am...and people want me to get to shooting around them...I should really invest in it. Not only that but it'll provide me with a second camera. Mmm...
Randomly - one of my buddy's, Ben, just showed me a sweet, sweet video. It's something this company/person does for weddings. And when they're as good as this one they're really cool to watch. Sweet. http://bruedesign.com/thecaptureblog2/?p=180
Check it out.
Video's not something I want to dabble in. I've my hands full with pictures at this point.
Other pointless to others news - I need to brand myself at some point. Working on contracts.
I took my camera in for its first cleaning. It was a dirty, dirty camera. The 35mm was dirty too. it kept giving the weirdest glares in non-sunny situations. A few bucks and a day from now I'll have it back and ready to rock.
Speaking of shooting (because it's all I really talk about to myself or to Kim...sorry Kim) I had some friends ask me to shoot their wedding on a 7 day cruise. And as awesome as that would have been, 7 days on a boat by myself would have been an interesting experience. I had other reasons for turning it down but that was a big one. I did refer them to people who I know could destroy that cruise with awesomeness and shoot their wedding better than I ever could. You know who are. Keep a look out.
I also had someone I knew/know tell me they were quoted a mere $450 to shoot their wedding. Err...how? All the more power to them but that sounds too good to be true, ya know? No matter.
How about the best site to use to sell things? People on FB expressed interest in buying pictures of some of the things I shot (which surprised me) and I don't have the first clue. There's smugmug.com - anything else? exposuremanager.com?
Yeah, that's it. That's all I've got. I'm constantly bottled up with photographer questions, thoughts and doings. Poor Kim is the outlet for it all. Sorry, babe! I need to make photography friends out here because I don't want to bore the hell out of my pals here about it. Yup. the end.
6.14.2010
Congrats to Aaron
3:26:34
The man finished his very first triathalon. That's one more tri than you'll see me do.I can't swim
I ride in a car and not on a bike
I like to run.
Congrats to Aaron for accomplishing such a wild feat. Good work!
Under Construction
Things are a changing around these parts. New focuses, new toys, new jobs - the works.
I haven't given the blog any love for some time. Work picks up, it slows down. I go on picture-taking binges. I get new ideas. I want to relax. I want to sleep. I want to drink. Most of the time blogging isn't first or 5th on my mind. It's probably because I don't have a lot to say that's really that interesting.
For anyone who reads these ramblings, you know that I've taken a liking to photography. With my limited knowledge, I could easily ramble on about it for countless minutes. I don't have a lot of photography pals but I'll chat to anyone who'll let me (thanks, Kim!). Josh is off in Portland and probably tires of some of my remedial questions to some of the simpler things. It's all in practice. And my cousin has 2 little ones. That - and her and my approaches to photography seem pretty opposite of each other. Not a bad thing but different.
On any note - I think if the blog focuses around light personal things and a lot more on photography I'd be able to stay updated more often. I've all sorts of questions that I don't need answers to but sometimes like to have vetted out into blog world.
But in terms of other changes - I may use the blog more in the future but for now it's under construction. I'll either keep with this one or start a new one with a photography focus.
I've since moved all of my recent photography (sort of the evolution of my "skills") to flickr. I bucked up and went "pro." Having access to stats gets me all excited because I'm nerdy like that. Seeing my photos get looked at 500+ times in 1 day might not be too wild but it made me happy. As long as those bastards don't go stealing anything. Grr! :)
I also upped for a new computer with much faster RAM. Went from 2 to 6. It's expandable up to 16. Mmm...16. Baby steps.
Lightroom 3's Beta stopped. It's time to start using LR3.
As for equipment - I had the opportunity to use a D80. Older and a little slower but it had the internal motor to allow me to use some of the passed down lenses. It was cool to do.
I found out one of my lenses is broken (the motor is) but that's ok. I had another with the same focal length and better glass. And a long-range lens that needs a much steadier hand.
I was able to get out and shoot with it (see the Twin Lakes walk around or the Minis for examples)
I will still rely heavily on the 35mm. It does great things.
As for camera body - well, like Josh and Kim have pointed out - FX is where I could look to go next. It's a 2k+ investment I don't have the money for yet.
I need to determine how serious I am with it all.
Do I want to start shooting more often?
Do I want to shoot for other people and get paid to do it?
I've always liked shooting because it's a whole "by my rules" mentality. But if someone else likes my rules and wants to pay me for my rules then let's do it, right? I just need to have a Sally Field moment or something.
I was booked for my first "event" last week. Surreal.
An afternoon with a bride's wedding party and then an engagement shoot. That'll be fun but isn't until later this year.
I was also asked to help shoot a wedding. The "main" shooter is relying on me (if I can do it). It's small. Not big. Well, actually, I don't know the details. Daunting.
And with my cousin - she's getting more bookings and looking for help.
So, I think the opportunities are there. It doesn't interfere with my "real" job, which is good. It's keeping me busy, which I like. It's a hobby I can show for when the day's done.
I like it.
That's what matters when it's all said and done. I like it.
So, I think I'll keep doing it.
But on any note --
With a new computer, new equipment, motivation, some support, a new place for the photos and a work-in-progress website (mostly as a portfolio site, I think) - I'm chugging along for my almost-year-long hobby.
What's mildly amusing is - despite the new things I have or the toys I am learning to work with - the list of wants never seems to dwindle. There are always upgrades or new things I could deal with having. Like what? Well, I'm glad you asked. For example - there are always new lenses I'd love to have; especially ones that will work well my current camera body (maybe this one or this one perhaps?) New camera body. Better flash (like this one or this one). Sturdy (tall enough) tripod. Better camera strap. A battery charger that doesn't scare me. I think the list goes on and on.
Once some form of a site is up I'll let people know.
I'm trying to determine what my niche is or if I want or need to have one.
I just like shooting whoever, whatever because I like it and others seem to as well.
I haven't given the blog any love for some time. Work picks up, it slows down. I go on picture-taking binges. I get new ideas. I want to relax. I want to sleep. I want to drink. Most of the time blogging isn't first or 5th on my mind. It's probably because I don't have a lot to say that's really that interesting.
For anyone who reads these ramblings, you know that I've taken a liking to photography. With my limited knowledge, I could easily ramble on about it for countless minutes. I don't have a lot of photography pals but I'll chat to anyone who'll let me (thanks, Kim!). Josh is off in Portland and probably tires of some of my remedial questions to some of the simpler things. It's all in practice. And my cousin has 2 little ones. That - and her and my approaches to photography seem pretty opposite of each other. Not a bad thing but different.
On any note - I think if the blog focuses around light personal things and a lot more on photography I'd be able to stay updated more often. I've all sorts of questions that I don't need answers to but sometimes like to have vetted out into blog world.
But in terms of other changes - I may use the blog more in the future but for now it's under construction. I'll either keep with this one or start a new one with a photography focus.
I've since moved all of my recent photography (sort of the evolution of my "skills") to flickr. I bucked up and went "pro." Having access to stats gets me all excited because I'm nerdy like that. Seeing my photos get looked at 500+ times in 1 day might not be too wild but it made me happy. As long as those bastards don't go stealing anything. Grr! :)
I also upped for a new computer with much faster RAM. Went from 2 to 6. It's expandable up to 16. Mmm...16. Baby steps.
Lightroom 3's Beta stopped. It's time to start using LR3.
As for equipment - I had the opportunity to use a D80. Older and a little slower but it had the internal motor to allow me to use some of the passed down lenses. It was cool to do.
I found out one of my lenses is broken (the motor is) but that's ok. I had another with the same focal length and better glass. And a long-range lens that needs a much steadier hand.
I was able to get out and shoot with it (see the Twin Lakes walk around or the Minis for examples)
I will still rely heavily on the 35mm. It does great things.
As for camera body - well, like Josh and Kim have pointed out - FX is where I could look to go next. It's a 2k+ investment I don't have the money for yet.
I need to determine how serious I am with it all.
Do I want to start shooting more often?
Do I want to shoot for other people and get paid to do it?
I've always liked shooting because it's a whole "by my rules" mentality. But if someone else likes my rules and wants to pay me for my rules then let's do it, right? I just need to have a Sally Field moment or something.
I was booked for my first "event" last week. Surreal.
An afternoon with a bride's wedding party and then an engagement shoot. That'll be fun but isn't until later this year.
I was also asked to help shoot a wedding. The "main" shooter is relying on me (if I can do it). It's small. Not big. Well, actually, I don't know the details. Daunting.
And with my cousin - she's getting more bookings and looking for help.
So, I think the opportunities are there. It doesn't interfere with my "real" job, which is good. It's keeping me busy, which I like. It's a hobby I can show for when the day's done.
I like it.
That's what matters when it's all said and done. I like it.
So, I think I'll keep doing it.
But on any note --
With a new computer, new equipment, motivation, some support, a new place for the photos and a work-in-progress website (mostly as a portfolio site, I think) - I'm chugging along for my almost-year-long hobby.
What's mildly amusing is - despite the new things I have or the toys I am learning to work with - the list of wants never seems to dwindle. There are always upgrades or new things I could deal with having. Like what? Well, I'm glad you asked. For example - there are always new lenses I'd love to have; especially ones that will work well my current camera body (maybe this one or this one perhaps?) New camera body. Better flash (like this one or this one). Sturdy (tall enough) tripod. Better camera strap. A battery charger that doesn't scare me. I think the list goes on and on.
Once some form of a site is up I'll let people know.
I'm trying to determine what my niche is or if I want or need to have one.
I just like shooting whoever, whatever because I like it and others seem to as well.
4.25.2010
Papa. Papa. Paparazzi
I've been such a paparazzi lately. Hopefully my pals don't mind. If they do, just let me know and I might listen but I might keep that razzi going strong because whatever we do there always tends to be all kinds of awesomeness worth getting captured on "film."
So begins 8 weekends of something to keep me busy. Which means it's 8 weekends of opportunities to get my paparazzi on. This weekend's been chalked full of parties. Friday has Jess' "wine that reminds you of me" party (which I tuckered out on too early) and last night was the "Beer for Boobs" party which was a fundraiser for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer (which Kim's migraine tuckered her out too early). Oh well, both events were a lot of fun for the time we were there and they warranted some crazy fun pictures.
I may use the blog as a place to add and show pictures now rather than Flickr. They told me to upgrade for $25 for unlimited pictures/year. That's silly. And expensive. I'm not important enough to have a Pro account on Flickr. If anything, I'll add some memory to the google/blog account so I can post like a crazy fool. Facebook has a tendency to skew the photos in funky ways but it's the easiest way to share pics to the larger group of people.
On Friday night, a couple of Jess/Kevin's friends tried to talk me into moving towards the professional photographer route. I wanna laugh at the idea because I like what I take and I've liked the results but I don't feel that what comes out of my camera is what someone else would want to pay for. Plus, I know my skill set and abilities. There's some more stuff I'd like to do or use (such as some of the longer-range lenses I have) but need a camera body that'll help that (w/ the built in motor for those AF lenses). Not that I couldn't use them as is but I'm shaky with auto-focus let alone manual. Yeeeeikes.
But it was encouraging to hear people tell me they liked what I've shot. Like I've said before, I've always like taking pictures because I don't have a boss to tell me I'm not doing it right, fast enough or up to some company standard. I shoot and edit what I want to see and that's working out so far. Poor Kim, though - she's been the constant photo muse, but she makes a really good one, right? Right.
On any note - with more opportunities for taking pictures comes more stuff to blog or share online. I'd rather write about pictures than work because work causes anxiety and taking pictures doesn't and if they do - I can not work on them and not worry about getting in trouble, it's awesome.
Let's show some of the highlights from Jess' party --
(when you click on a picture it will become a lot clearer - sometimes they post fuzzy here too...)
And then there was the Beer for Boobs party. I was surprised that there were a lot of good pictures from this one. I wasn't feeling particularly social or photo intrusive. So, I sat back and watched things happened and caught some fun things. Such as...
So begins 8 weekends of something to keep me busy. Which means it's 8 weekends of opportunities to get my paparazzi on. This weekend's been chalked full of parties. Friday has Jess' "wine that reminds you of me" party (which I tuckered out on too early) and last night was the "Beer for Boobs" party which was a fundraiser for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer (which Kim's migraine tuckered her out too early). Oh well, both events were a lot of fun for the time we were there and they warranted some crazy fun pictures.
I may use the blog as a place to add and show pictures now rather than Flickr. They told me to upgrade for $25 for unlimited pictures/year. That's silly. And expensive. I'm not important enough to have a Pro account on Flickr. If anything, I'll add some memory to the google/blog account so I can post like a crazy fool. Facebook has a tendency to skew the photos in funky ways but it's the easiest way to share pics to the larger group of people.
On Friday night, a couple of Jess/Kevin's friends tried to talk me into moving towards the professional photographer route. I wanna laugh at the idea because I like what I take and I've liked the results but I don't feel that what comes out of my camera is what someone else would want to pay for. Plus, I know my skill set and abilities. There's some more stuff I'd like to do or use (such as some of the longer-range lenses I have) but need a camera body that'll help that (w/ the built in motor for those AF lenses). Not that I couldn't use them as is but I'm shaky with auto-focus let alone manual. Yeeeeikes.
But it was encouraging to hear people tell me they liked what I've shot. Like I've said before, I've always like taking pictures because I don't have a boss to tell me I'm not doing it right, fast enough or up to some company standard. I shoot and edit what I want to see and that's working out so far. Poor Kim, though - she's been the constant photo muse, but she makes a really good one, right? Right.
On any note - with more opportunities for taking pictures comes more stuff to blog or share online. I'd rather write about pictures than work because work causes anxiety and taking pictures doesn't and if they do - I can not work on them and not worry about getting in trouble, it's awesome.
Let's show some of the highlights from Jess' party --
(when you click on a picture it will become a lot clearer - sometimes they post fuzzy here too...)
And then there was the Beer for Boobs party. I was surprised that there were a lot of good pictures from this one. I wasn't feeling particularly social or photo intrusive. So, I sat back and watched things happened and caught some fun things. Such as...
4.05.2010
April Showers
Hot damn is it ever raining. I think I heard hail. Awesome.
I've been meaning to get my rambles on but there's been little free time for it. I'm still in the transition period of my new 6-month gig and I'm typically on my best behavior for the first month or so before I end up transitioning back to my regular routine.
This new spot has me traveling more and it throws off my clock, so I end up having to be to bed earlier - no thanks.
What to bore any of you with?
I bought a flash. Isn't that exciting? It is to me - now I can take better indoor photos without making someone sit there for 10 seconds hoping the camera will pick up light some some nearby source. It's not as nice as what I'd like to purchase but it was also 1/4 as much and that makes a big difference.
It's still taking some getting used to but so far it's yielding some pretty fun results. Like these:
Fun stuff.
And that popcorn was good too. Caramel apple.
Ya know what else is fun? Whirlyball. Got to do that this weekend for Missy/Bis' engagement party. I'm sore from it but it's a warrior's sore! It's a little costly but I think it's worth it. The drinks are affordable so it balances out. Let's go.
All in all, it was a really good weekend. Very busy.
The only downside was catching some sort of bug Saturday and trying to fight it off that day and Sunday. It won last night but taking Monday off proved to be genius. Sleep cures all.
That and it gave me some extra, stress free time to edit out the weekend's photos
I think the best part of today was finally having what I gave up for lent - Pizza. OMG. I missed pizza. It's really salty (that's what she said) if you haven't had it in a long time but still a tasty treat.
Also back in swing today were the Cubs. All I have to say is - let's hope for better things. After today, there's really nowhere for them to go but up. It was pretty awful to watch. It's games like today that give those damn sox fans ammo against us who-knows-why-we-are cubs fans.
It's a hair away from Tuesday but I want the weekend here again. It's when the fun happens.
I've been meaning to get my rambles on but there's been little free time for it. I'm still in the transition period of my new 6-month gig and I'm typically on my best behavior for the first month or so before I end up transitioning back to my regular routine.
This new spot has me traveling more and it throws off my clock, so I end up having to be to bed earlier - no thanks.
What to bore any of you with?
I bought a flash. Isn't that exciting? It is to me - now I can take better indoor photos without making someone sit there for 10 seconds hoping the camera will pick up light some some nearby source. It's not as nice as what I'd like to purchase but it was also 1/4 as much and that makes a big difference.
It's still taking some getting used to but so far it's yielding some pretty fun results. Like these:
Fun stuff.
And that popcorn was good too. Caramel apple.
Ya know what else is fun? Whirlyball. Got to do that this weekend for Missy/Bis' engagement party. I'm sore from it but it's a warrior's sore! It's a little costly but I think it's worth it. The drinks are affordable so it balances out. Let's go.
All in all, it was a really good weekend. Very busy.
The only downside was catching some sort of bug Saturday and trying to fight it off that day and Sunday. It won last night but taking Monday off proved to be genius. Sleep cures all.
That and it gave me some extra, stress free time to edit out the weekend's photos
I think the best part of today was finally having what I gave up for lent - Pizza. OMG. I missed pizza. It's really salty (that's what she said) if you haven't had it in a long time but still a tasty treat.
Also back in swing today were the Cubs. All I have to say is - let's hope for better things. After today, there's really nowhere for them to go but up. It was pretty awful to watch. It's games like today that give those damn sox fans ammo against us who-knows-why-we-are cubs fans.
It's a hair away from Tuesday but I want the weekend here again. It's when the fun happens.
3.24.2010
Posting again soon...
But not really tonight.
The new job has provided me with a new feeling.
It's this internal stress. Can't explain it, really, wish I could.
It's a stress where - you know what things bug you but you can't put them into words so well and if you could...you probably wouldn't be listened to anyway. Rock and a hard spot but without pressure. Weird stuff I tell ya.
The time is flying though. It's 1/2 way through another week and a great weekend is up ahead. UFC and Wrestlemania. Real vs. Scripted. It'll be a good weekend. Now to just push through the rest of this week.
---------
The new job has provided me with a new feeling.
It's this internal stress. Can't explain it, really, wish I could.
It's a stress where - you know what things bug you but you can't put them into words so well and if you could...you probably wouldn't be listened to anyway. Rock and a hard spot but without pressure. Weird stuff I tell ya.
The time is flying though. It's 1/2 way through another week and a great weekend is up ahead. UFC and Wrestlemania. Real vs. Scripted. It'll be a good weekend. Now to just push through the rest of this week.
---------
3.15.2010
New but the same
Tomorrow starts 6 months of something new at work. I was picked to be in this TDY program. Basically it means, I get to work for a different part of the company for 6 months to gain more outside experience. It's to make me more appealing to move me up the corporate ladder.
I'm not sure how it's all going to go or how much I will really enjoy it but I know I need to go into this with an open mind otherwise I'll doom myself from the get go. It'll give me more time to be in the field, drive around the state, and get a fresh perspective on things I am only used to seeing from my silo'd bubble.
There'll be more on that in the future but for now I figure I should be wise and get to bed early and not be late on my "first day." But why change routine? I stay up too late and do alright.
Other weekend news - it was a good weekend. Saturday turned out to be a lot better than I could have planned. All you can eat sushi always equals a good time. We tried a new board game (a game of things) and it was just as I had predicted - dirty, wrong and all kinds of awesome. I didn't snap as many pictures as I could have but...really...what am I going to do with hundreds of pictures of the same 6 people from one night? Not much. I had a tough time with the 100 I sifted through. Moved them down to under 50.
It reminded me again of how much I enjoy editing. I don't try to stream the event together with a theme or anything. For right now, since I'm still learning a lot, I am trying to look at each picture as an individual and edit it as a standalone. At times there'll be a good string of pictures with the same look and feel but I don't want to throw away any opportunities for something unique to come out of my brain. I think I wrote this too (or told someone) but the best part of editing is that they can come out to how I think they should be. I'm the critical eye. If you don't like them that's ok because I'm not being paid and I'm having fun. It's the sassy truth.
The more I shoot the better I get and the better I can adapt to my surroundings. And people don't seem to mind as much that it's out and about with me. And if they do - that's fine because I don't mind. It's fun.
Err, that's about it, I think.
Our awesome friends are coming to town this week for an extended stay for a wedding and work but we'll get a chance to hang out with 2 cool people. This week should fly by and then comes a party at Richie's and having some bar fun in the heights. I look forward to it already.
If you're sitting at work and you're bored and want to kill a few minutes - feel free to check out the pictures from last night here.
Here are my couple faves from the night and then it's time to rest on up.
----------------
Listening to: Jamie Cullum - Mixtape
via FoxyTunes
I'm not sure how it's all going to go or how much I will really enjoy it but I know I need to go into this with an open mind otherwise I'll doom myself from the get go. It'll give me more time to be in the field, drive around the state, and get a fresh perspective on things I am only used to seeing from my silo'd bubble.
There'll be more on that in the future but for now I figure I should be wise and get to bed early and not be late on my "first day." But why change routine? I stay up too late and do alright.
Other weekend news - it was a good weekend. Saturday turned out to be a lot better than I could have planned. All you can eat sushi always equals a good time. We tried a new board game (a game of things) and it was just as I had predicted - dirty, wrong and all kinds of awesome. I didn't snap as many pictures as I could have but...really...what am I going to do with hundreds of pictures of the same 6 people from one night? Not much. I had a tough time with the 100 I sifted through. Moved them down to under 50.
It reminded me again of how much I enjoy editing. I don't try to stream the event together with a theme or anything. For right now, since I'm still learning a lot, I am trying to look at each picture as an individual and edit it as a standalone. At times there'll be a good string of pictures with the same look and feel but I don't want to throw away any opportunities for something unique to come out of my brain. I think I wrote this too (or told someone) but the best part of editing is that they can come out to how I think they should be. I'm the critical eye. If you don't like them that's ok because I'm not being paid and I'm having fun. It's the sassy truth.
The more I shoot the better I get and the better I can adapt to my surroundings. And people don't seem to mind as much that it's out and about with me. And if they do - that's fine because I don't mind. It's fun.
Err, that's about it, I think.
Our awesome friends are coming to town this week for an extended stay for a wedding and work but we'll get a chance to hang out with 2 cool people. This week should fly by and then comes a party at Richie's and having some bar fun in the heights. I look forward to it already.
If you're sitting at work and you're bored and want to kill a few minutes - feel free to check out the pictures from last night here.
Here are my couple faves from the night and then it's time to rest on up.
----------------
Listening to: Jamie Cullum - Mixtape
via FoxyTunes
3.13.2010
Do you know what's delicious?
I'll tell you...
Vodka Tonic w/ Lime.
There is a difference in vodkas. Grey Goose is awesome. Belvidere is smoky. Stoli is sort of syrupee.
When I don't want to grab a beer, I've got my drink.
Today, Kim bought some tonic water and limes for me. Awesome wife. What did I have while playing COD? That's right, vodka tonic with lime. Lots of lime. Because the lime makes it more delicious.
I can feel just as loopy but without feeling so full. It's an awesome I didn't know existed kind of a drink. That's all I really had to say. It's Friday night and I feel alright. Because I get to sleep in. Jackpot.
Vodka Tonic w/ Lime.
There is a difference in vodkas. Grey Goose is awesome. Belvidere is smoky. Stoli is sort of syrupee.
When I don't want to grab a beer, I've got my drink.
Today, Kim bought some tonic water and limes for me. Awesome wife. What did I have while playing COD? That's right, vodka tonic with lime. Lots of lime. Because the lime makes it more delicious.
I can feel just as loopy but without feeling so full. It's an awesome I didn't know existed kind of a drink. That's all I really had to say. It's Friday night and I feel alright. Because I get to sleep in. Jackpot.
3.11.2010
want, want, want - need, need, need
Is there really a difference between the two? I mean, when you want something you convince yourself you need it, right? Aside from something life saving, do you really need anything? For the most part, no.
You need food and water.
Everything else is a nice to have which is sort of bleak if you look too into it.
I'm currently in a want, want, want state of mind. My tiny brain is flooded with ideas of things I'm convinced I need to figure out how to make, do, buy, afford, attain and get in some form or fashion. Why? I have absolutely no idea. In real life, I live a pretty good life. I don't have to sacrifice too much or worry about too many things, as they pertain to money. And that isn't because I'm well off or anything but because I tend to be conservative with money.
In all honesty, I really dislike money. Well, that's also not completely true. I dislike money when it burdens me or others that I know. When money causes debt I dislike it. When money can buy me something I want then I like it.
For most of us...or wait, all of us, it's tax time and we are all hoping for money back from Uncle Sam. There's a laundry list of things I'd like to get my hands on. Everything from a new kitchen to new bathroom(s). Buy some new toys perhaps or maybe even some new furniture. It's a pathetic little conundrum.
I sit with a seemingly easy dilemma. Do I knock out debt or continue to linger with it for awhile longer to save the money or does it become counterproductive to save with the dreams of interest brewing or knock out what you're required to pay on each month? Ugh, the travesties of adult life! haha.
On any note - what's the difference between need and want? I want toys and new things and fun things. I need to be happy with what I've got. I have a great wife. A great house. Usually, some pretty great friends. A great job, that I don't tend to admit to too often. A great family when you get down to their core and shave away the unnecessary dramas that occur. Life is pretty great and I think that's what I need. But oh to dream of all the things I want...
What things do you want?
A new car? New TV? Maybe a new beer because your old one is empty and that's sad? Maybe a girlfriend or to win the lotto?
----------------
Listening to: Jamie Cullum - We Run Things
via FoxyTunes
You need food and water.
Everything else is a nice to have which is sort of bleak if you look too into it.
I'm currently in a want, want, want state of mind. My tiny brain is flooded with ideas of things I'm convinced I need to figure out how to make, do, buy, afford, attain and get in some form or fashion. Why? I have absolutely no idea. In real life, I live a pretty good life. I don't have to sacrifice too much or worry about too many things, as they pertain to money. And that isn't because I'm well off or anything but because I tend to be conservative with money.
In all honesty, I really dislike money. Well, that's also not completely true. I dislike money when it burdens me or others that I know. When money causes debt I dislike it. When money can buy me something I want then I like it.
For most of us...or wait, all of us, it's tax time and we are all hoping for money back from Uncle Sam. There's a laundry list of things I'd like to get my hands on. Everything from a new kitchen to new bathroom(s). Buy some new toys perhaps or maybe even some new furniture. It's a pathetic little conundrum.
I sit with a seemingly easy dilemma. Do I knock out debt or continue to linger with it for awhile longer to save the money or does it become counterproductive to save with the dreams of interest brewing or knock out what you're required to pay on each month? Ugh, the travesties of adult life! haha.
On any note - what's the difference between need and want? I want toys and new things and fun things. I need to be happy with what I've got. I have a great wife. A great house. Usually, some pretty great friends. A great job, that I don't tend to admit to too often. A great family when you get down to their core and shave away the unnecessary dramas that occur. Life is pretty great and I think that's what I need. But oh to dream of all the things I want...
What things do you want?
A new car? New TV? Maybe a new beer because your old one is empty and that's sad? Maybe a girlfriend or to win the lotto?
----------------
Listening to: Jamie Cullum - We Run Things
via FoxyTunes
3.08.2010
a theme developing
I sense a theme developing that whenever I want to sit and blog I'm usually feeling too tired or too pressed to get to bed. Tonight is more the latter since I slept in too long this morning.
It was a good weekend. Took Friday off to hang out with Kim and Linds. Spent more time in the city but had my picture taken with a real Oscar, bought fancy chocolate, ate a really good burger and had a lot of fun at a bar called English.
The drinks were affordable, the waitress was really attentive and Kim was nice and toasty - just as she should since she was the birthday girl. The toughest part was documenting it effectively since there was really zero light. But, with a candle nearby or some TV in the background I made it work the best I could. Feel free to check them out by going here.
I'd go back to that bar if and when I end up city-bound again. Next time I'll avoid post-bar McDonalds trips :)
I think that's about it. The last two days have been lazy and wonderful.
The Oscars were predictably surprising.
And...it's one week until I start my new gig at work for 6 months. That's excitingly terrifying - we'll see how that fares itself over the summer.
And just for the hell of it, here's the picture of me with the Oscar. I stumbled upon the place when I escaped into Nordstrom to warm back up. I figured...I'm by myself and it's free...so, why not? I'm also, proudly, making one of more stupid faces. I was going for "surprised" but it came off as pretty queer. Oh well. The one thing I did learn is, the Oscar really is heaver than you think it's going to be. Here's to a great week and hopefully a fast one as well. I always love the weekends more than the work-filled week.
----------------
Listening to: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - The Planets, Sutie for Large Orchestra, Op. 32: Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
via FoxyTunes
It was a good weekend. Took Friday off to hang out with Kim and Linds. Spent more time in the city but had my picture taken with a real Oscar, bought fancy chocolate, ate a really good burger and had a lot of fun at a bar called English.
The drinks were affordable, the waitress was really attentive and Kim was nice and toasty - just as she should since she was the birthday girl. The toughest part was documenting it effectively since there was really zero light. But, with a candle nearby or some TV in the background I made it work the best I could. Feel free to check them out by going here.
I'd go back to that bar if and when I end up city-bound again. Next time I'll avoid post-bar McDonalds trips :)
I think that's about it. The last two days have been lazy and wonderful.
The Oscars were predictably surprising.
And...it's one week until I start my new gig at work for 6 months. That's excitingly terrifying - we'll see how that fares itself over the summer.
And just for the hell of it, here's the picture of me with the Oscar. I stumbled upon the place when I escaped into Nordstrom to warm back up. I figured...I'm by myself and it's free...so, why not? I'm also, proudly, making one of more stupid faces. I was going for "surprised" but it came off as pretty queer. Oh well. The one thing I did learn is, the Oscar really is heaver than you think it's going to be. Here's to a great week and hopefully a fast one as well. I always love the weekends more than the work-filled week.
----------------
Listening to: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - The Planets, Sutie for Large Orchestra, Op. 32: Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
via FoxyTunes
3.01.2010
snapshots
Oh photo editing how I am learning to love and hate you. You make my photos look worlds better than they do straight out of the camera yet, sometimes, you take so damn long to finish. I can completely understand why editing something like a wedding could takes weeks to do. Weeding out 1000s of photos and then having to edit them is quite the task, let alone my mere 100 photos I took in an evening that I'm just toying with.
I read some article about resolutions someone can have who likes to take pictures. There were 30 things and a lot of them didn't apply to me but that's alright, there were a few that did and they're stuck in my head. The biggest, most noticeable thing I read was to bring my camera with me even when I don't think I need to.
For example - Friday. I wasn't sure if a dark night club would warrant any good pictures but hanging out before and after (and the drive down) definitely did.
Here's an example of a before and after picture from this weekend.
Before and after.
A few simple tweaks and my crappy, taken-from-the-passenger-seat photo turned out to be sort of cool.
I put a handful of them out on flickr and there's an album on facebook. The downside to facebook is - it takes my pictures (everyone's for that matter) and squishes them. The resolution gets all funny and the sharpness goes away and it looks shittier. I don't see that as much with flickr, which I like.
Alright, one more set of compare and contrast and then it's off to bed.
Before & After...
I like how they turned out. They're all dramatic and stuff. ha. Check out the other pictures on fbook. Oh and random - I could put copyrights on the pictures but I don't know what to call them, or myself or the name that goes on the pictures...any suggestions, ideas, thoughts? I'm all ears.
I read some article about resolutions someone can have who likes to take pictures. There were 30 things and a lot of them didn't apply to me but that's alright, there were a few that did and they're stuck in my head. The biggest, most noticeable thing I read was to bring my camera with me even when I don't think I need to.
For example - Friday. I wasn't sure if a dark night club would warrant any good pictures but hanging out before and after (and the drive down) definitely did.
Here's an example of a before and after picture from this weekend.
Before and after.
A few simple tweaks and my crappy, taken-from-the-passenger-seat photo turned out to be sort of cool.
I put a handful of them out on flickr and there's an album on facebook. The downside to facebook is - it takes my pictures (everyone's for that matter) and squishes them. The resolution gets all funny and the sharpness goes away and it looks shittier. I don't see that as much with flickr, which I like.
Alright, one more set of compare and contrast and then it's off to bed.
Before & After...
I like how they turned out. They're all dramatic and stuff. ha. Check out the other pictures on fbook. Oh and random - I could put copyrights on the pictures but I don't know what to call them, or myself or the name that goes on the pictures...any suggestions, ideas, thoughts? I'm all ears.
2.24.2010
busy
Between work and life I have had very little time to get my blog on.
same story now. the difference is that I'm fighting sleepy time. I'll only regret it each minute more in the morning.
work is getting a shake up. I'll be getting 6 months of field experience. what that entails exactly I don't fully know yet. I just know that my current projects are being given to other people and my responsibilities are being divvied up and I am assuming a whole new role until right after my birthday. I'll be traveling throughout the grand state of Illinois for an array of reasons (more to come once confirmed).
Kim's still in the hunt for something but I know she'll get something sooner rather than later. There isn't a lot out there and not a lot out there that sounds appealing.
Taxes are done and will soon be en route to the state and government to give us some money.
What we do with that money has a potential purpose but it seems to shift and change the more it's thought about. Do we update the kitchen? Pay off old debt? Have a wild and crazy vacation? All of the above?
I've think I've found my photo editing software of choice. Now, for it to get released and for me to buy it. I want warmer weather and more camera-acceptable social situations and there'll be more pictures to see. I'm going to start bringing it with more often. Sorry. It's all for the best. The more pictures I take the better the outcomes will be. I'm bringing a false sense of class to our fantastic nights of tall boys and inappropriate conversation.
I've been stuck on Paramore lately. Right now it's "Misguided Ghosts." It's a really good CD and worth buying if you haven't already. Oh and my earlier review of the "fun." cd was underrated. It's actually really good. "The Gambler" and "Light a Roman Candle with me" are really good. It's more mellow than I had originally hoped but the guy's got a really good voice.
What else?
I'm now in 2 weddings in the next 14 months. Groomsman and best man. That means a speech. Hmm...that daunting task that once plagued Rich now lays in my hands. That and a bachelor party. He's hoping for paintball but I need to weigh the fading athleticism of us all and figure out if we'll be able to get physical and still have social delight in the same night. We'll see. There's still some time but it'll be good no matter what happens. Who's in?
I think I could write a whole blog on the Olympics and maybe I will but not tonight. Basically, they've been awesome. I love being patriotic every 2 years. It's fun.
And this has been 5 minutes inside the brain of me. Yikes.
same story now. the difference is that I'm fighting sleepy time. I'll only regret it each minute more in the morning.
work is getting a shake up. I'll be getting 6 months of field experience. what that entails exactly I don't fully know yet. I just know that my current projects are being given to other people and my responsibilities are being divvied up and I am assuming a whole new role until right after my birthday. I'll be traveling throughout the grand state of Illinois for an array of reasons (more to come once confirmed).
Kim's still in the hunt for something but I know she'll get something sooner rather than later. There isn't a lot out there and not a lot out there that sounds appealing.
Taxes are done and will soon be en route to the state and government to give us some money.
What we do with that money has a potential purpose but it seems to shift and change the more it's thought about. Do we update the kitchen? Pay off old debt? Have a wild and crazy vacation? All of the above?
I've think I've found my photo editing software of choice. Now, for it to get released and for me to buy it. I want warmer weather and more camera-acceptable social situations and there'll be more pictures to see. I'm going to start bringing it with more often. Sorry. It's all for the best. The more pictures I take the better the outcomes will be. I'm bringing a false sense of class to our fantastic nights of tall boys and inappropriate conversation.
I've been stuck on Paramore lately. Right now it's "Misguided Ghosts." It's a really good CD and worth buying if you haven't already. Oh and my earlier review of the "fun." cd was underrated. It's actually really good. "The Gambler" and "Light a Roman Candle with me" are really good. It's more mellow than I had originally hoped but the guy's got a really good voice.
What else?
I'm now in 2 weddings in the next 14 months. Groomsman and best man. That means a speech. Hmm...that daunting task that once plagued Rich now lays in my hands. That and a bachelor party. He's hoping for paintball but I need to weigh the fading athleticism of us all and figure out if we'll be able to get physical and still have social delight in the same night. We'll see. There's still some time but it'll be good no matter what happens. Who's in?
I think I could write a whole blog on the Olympics and maybe I will but not tonight. Basically, they've been awesome. I love being patriotic every 2 years. It's fun.
And this has been 5 minutes inside the brain of me. Yikes.
2.09.2010
things, work, dad, mom, superbowl, diapers, meat, cars and snow
Do you have those things you have to do but really hate doing? Lord knows I do. Lots of. The two things I really dislike doing the most are getting gas for my car and getting a haircut. I'm happier once those two things are completed but I don't like taking the time out to do it. I want my car to stay full all the time and for the shaggy, shitty looking hairdo to become an acceptable corporate practice.
Speaking of corporate - turns out I might have an opportunity for something new and different at work. I'm game. I'd get to work for a different area for 6mo to a year or so. Field experience. Makes me feel so military. But...in khakis and button down shirt. I'm told it's a big deal to be picked for it but we'll see. With only 6 months somewhere and knowing that my old job awaits, it will be a fun time to explore and shake a thing up or two. Though - what's the point for only 6 months? It takes that long to get acclimated to a new job in corporate America. I could be wrong. Either way, it'll be an escape for a little while and I might learn a thing or two. And if nothing else, I'll at least be able to bitch about my longer commute, but it falls in the summer so it'll at least be nice out.
Ah - which also means no intern! I was excited to get to manage some young college mind for a few months. I'm not sure I'm the best representation of the corporate culture but that might not be such a bad thing. But if it's a choice between career advancement or a few months of managing someone, I'll take the advancement opportunity. It was fun to interview everyone and go through the process but there's always next year.
On a brighter note...
My dads surgery went well. I wanted to take a picture of him in the hospital but he probably would've slapped me silly. That would've been really funny, come to think of it. A 50 something year old man, doped up on morphine, flailing his arms around yelling, "don't take my picture, god damnit!" Haha...
But seriously, the doctor said it went as well as it could have. He's bed ridden for only a few more days and then he can start to be back up on his feet and doing more active things, yet not lifting anything more than 10 pounds. Sucks but at least he is currently cancer free, right? Right. More on that in the future.
In even more positive news, today is my mom's birthday (Monday). Happy Birthday, Mom. We were able to hang out with her and Al on Saturday for an evening of laid back Asian dinner at the Red Lantern (eh, it's the Adam's Rib of Asian cuisine...it needs a few months to iron out the kinks). Then we came back and ate on some cupcakes I made (weird because I don't tend to get my bake on). The cupcakes lent themselves to some good pictures and my mom enjoyed her gifts. 2.5 bottles of wine later...we had ourselves a successful night.
Which led right into Superbowl Sunday! The commercials were ok this year but
nothing too spectacular. My favorites were "casual day" and the snickers commercial with Betty White. Classics.
The BBQ pulled pork was a hit. The spice rub and 10 hours in the slow cooker really made the dish so good. It was even good as leftovers. I felt bad for Nick because people kept eating the pork and not so much on the chili. I also witnessed something new. A doggy diaper. I thought it was a myth. I always told Kim that having a kid makes more sense because you can put a diaper on a kid...but evidently you can also put a diaper on a dog. It's a sight to see for sure.
All in all, a good weekend. Lots of different things went on and I look forward to the upcoming weekend as well. Though...I don't know what's going on really, aside from a dinner on Sunday night. I bet Kim has competition or at least dance practice and that's about it.
Um...and yeah. The Chicago Auto show is coming up. Let's go. It's been 2 years
and it was fun then so I bet it would be fun now.
That's all I've got. Here's to the upcoming foot of snow!
Speaking of corporate - turns out I might have an opportunity for something new and different at work. I'm game. I'd get to work for a different area for 6mo to a year or so. Field experience. Makes me feel so military. But...in khakis and button down shirt. I'm told it's a big deal to be picked for it but we'll see. With only 6 months somewhere and knowing that my old job awaits, it will be a fun time to explore and shake a thing up or two. Though - what's the point for only 6 months? It takes that long to get acclimated to a new job in corporate America. I could be wrong. Either way, it'll be an escape for a little while and I might learn a thing or two. And if nothing else, I'll at least be able to bitch about my longer commute, but it falls in the summer so it'll at least be nice out.
Ah - which also means no intern! I was excited to get to manage some young college mind for a few months. I'm not sure I'm the best representation of the corporate culture but that might not be such a bad thing. But if it's a choice between career advancement or a few months of managing someone, I'll take the advancement opportunity. It was fun to interview everyone and go through the process but there's always next year.
On a brighter note...
My dads surgery went well. I wanted to take a picture of him in the hospital but he probably would've slapped me silly. That would've been really funny, come to think of it. A 50 something year old man, doped up on morphine, flailing his arms around yelling, "don't take my picture, god damnit!" Haha...
But seriously, the doctor said it went as well as it could have. He's bed ridden for only a few more days and then he can start to be back up on his feet and doing more active things, yet not lifting anything more than 10 pounds. Sucks but at least he is currently cancer free, right? Right. More on that in the future.
In even more positive news, today is my mom's birthday (Monday). Happy Birthday, Mom. We were able to hang out with her and Al on Saturday for an evening of laid back Asian dinner at the Red Lantern (eh, it's the Adam's Rib of Asian cuisine...it needs a few months to iron out the kinks). Then we came back and ate on some cupcakes I made (weird because I don't tend to get my bake on). The cupcakes lent themselves to some good pictures and my mom enjoyed her gifts. 2.5 bottles of wine later...we had ourselves a successful night.
Which led right into Superbowl Sunday! The commercials were ok this year but
nothing too spectacular. My favorites were "casual day" and the snickers commercial with Betty White. Classics.
The BBQ pulled pork was a hit. The spice rub and 10 hours in the slow cooker really made the dish so good. It was even good as leftovers. I felt bad for Nick because people kept eating the pork and not so much on the chili. I also witnessed something new. A doggy diaper. I thought it was a myth. I always told Kim that having a kid makes more sense because you can put a diaper on a kid...but evidently you can also put a diaper on a dog. It's a sight to see for sure.
All in all, a good weekend. Lots of different things went on and I look forward to the upcoming weekend as well. Though...I don't know what's going on really, aside from a dinner on Sunday night. I bet Kim has competition or at least dance practice and that's about it.
Um...and yeah. The Chicago Auto show is coming up. Let's go. It's been 2 years
and it was fun then so I bet it would be fun now.That's all I've got. Here's to the upcoming foot of snow!
2.03.2010
Not much to say
No exciting topics tonight.
Someone asked me about my dad today and I wanted to say, "you could just follow the info updates on my blog," but realized that I don't widely distribute this bad boy and probably for good reason. I don't know, what do you think?
I don't tend to talk about work on here too much so I should be safe there. And if I bitch about people I'll usually keep it nice and vague to make it less obvious. At the same time, do I really want it to get where people I don't really know are reading this? Plus, who would want to read this who I don't know? Who do I know that wants to read this? I guess it's an easy way to kill 5-10 minutes at work. Plus, it doesn't look like a facebook application so we're safe there.
If someone asks me what my site is I'll share but I don't want to openly promote my ramblings. Maybe I should...dunno.
So, last night I wanted to try a new alarm clock approach to see if I would react better to it because I have become numb to my old alarm clock. I'll hit snooze or off in my sleep and keep on going. I have one of those iPod alarm clocks I never use and thought it could be fun to wake up to a song. Terrible idea. Around comes the waking hours and on comes "Somebody to Love" by Queen. If that opening chorus isn't enough to scare the shit out of someone as the first thing they hear I don't know what is. I think the song was on for under 5 seconds before I was up and ready for the day. I guess it worked but never again will I wake up to the sounds of Freddie Mercury. F no. "Caaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan..." AAAH, turn it off, turn it off!
That's all I've got. How about I put up some pictures I like that I've taken lately. I'm still learning the simple tunings of Photoshop and I'll get there eventually. For now, it's all about color adjustments/enhancements and sharpening my images. I think I have a pretty good eye for a shot and if I don't I can crop pretty well. Let's see...and in no particular order...
My parents always bring over good wine and sometimes it's fun to watch it slide down the glass before I have another
I tell her she's my photo muse all of the time. She says she hates it but then she gives me the fishy face and it cracks me up to no end.
Always a good time with Mr. Warmack.
I dunno why but I like this picture.
Let's do one more and then bed...
From the trees outside. There was a crazy ice storm and here's what came from it. Cool stuff.
I'm still not mobile enough to get take pictures whenever I see something awesome. I'll get there. Eventually, my friends will not see the camera and go "ooh, gotta pose," and then we'll get some really awesome photos. So far so good.
If you click on any of the photos, you'll get it to pop up in a different window at full resolution, which always looks so much better. The best thing about the photos you see is none of them have been altered in Photoshop, except for converting the one of Adam to b&w.
Someday, I'll learn layers and blurs and other stuff. But for now it's just taking something good the first go round.
That's all she wrote, folks.
Tuesday out and Humpday in.
Happy Wednesday.
----------------
Listening to: Owl City - Dental Care
via FoxyTunes
Someone asked me about my dad today and I wanted to say, "you could just follow the info updates on my blog," but realized that I don't widely distribute this bad boy and probably for good reason. I don't know, what do you think?
I don't tend to talk about work on here too much so I should be safe there. And if I bitch about people I'll usually keep it nice and vague to make it less obvious. At the same time, do I really want it to get where people I don't really know are reading this? Plus, who would want to read this who I don't know? Who do I know that wants to read this? I guess it's an easy way to kill 5-10 minutes at work. Plus, it doesn't look like a facebook application so we're safe there.
If someone asks me what my site is I'll share but I don't want to openly promote my ramblings. Maybe I should...dunno.
So, last night I wanted to try a new alarm clock approach to see if I would react better to it because I have become numb to my old alarm clock. I'll hit snooze or off in my sleep and keep on going. I have one of those iPod alarm clocks I never use and thought it could be fun to wake up to a song. Terrible idea. Around comes the waking hours and on comes "Somebody to Love" by Queen. If that opening chorus isn't enough to scare the shit out of someone as the first thing they hear I don't know what is. I think the song was on for under 5 seconds before I was up and ready for the day. I guess it worked but never again will I wake up to the sounds of Freddie Mercury. F no. "Caaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan..." AAAH, turn it off, turn it off!
That's all I've got. How about I put up some pictures I like that I've taken lately. I'm still learning the simple tunings of Photoshop and I'll get there eventually. For now, it's all about color adjustments/enhancements and sharpening my images. I think I have a pretty good eye for a shot and if I don't I can crop pretty well. Let's see...and in no particular order...
My parents always bring over good wine and sometimes it's fun to watch it slide down the glass before I have another
I tell her she's my photo muse all of the time. She says she hates it but then she gives me the fishy face and it cracks me up to no end.
Always a good time with Mr. Warmack.
I dunno why but I like this picture.
Let's do one more and then bed...
From the trees outside. There was a crazy ice storm and here's what came from it. Cool stuff.
I'm still not mobile enough to get take pictures whenever I see something awesome. I'll get there. Eventually, my friends will not see the camera and go "ooh, gotta pose," and then we'll get some really awesome photos. So far so good.
If you click on any of the photos, you'll get it to pop up in a different window at full resolution, which always looks so much better. The best thing about the photos you see is none of them have been altered in Photoshop, except for converting the one of Adam to b&w.
Someday, I'll learn layers and blurs and other stuff. But for now it's just taking something good the first go round.
That's all she wrote, folks.
Tuesday out and Humpday in.
Happy Wednesday.
----------------
Listening to: Owl City - Dental Care
via FoxyTunes
2.01.2010
In no particular order
I guess I have all sorts of mish mashed thoughts jumbling around in that lump 3 ft above my ass tonight.
I had a fun filled weekend of the arts of a variety of sorts, many delicious brews and deciding, "ya know what, I'm not gonna go to work and that's a-ok."
Bright and early this morning my dad had cancer surgery. The good news is - the doctor said it went as well as it could have. The bad is that he's doped up on morphine and in funky levels of pain. It was a 3.5 hour surgery, which isn't so bad I'm told. Mid today, Kim and I decided to go visit his recovering self in the hospital and see if he was up and coherent. Luckily for us he was. It was depressingly positive, if such an emotion exists. You're happy to see that your dad is still around. The surgery intended to remove him of a life threatening cancer is potentially removed and the road to good health and recovery should be all we see from here on out. Any other option is one I refuse to consider at this point. The oddity was walking into a hospital room to see your dad all hooked up like he's an extra in the Matrix. There's one wire for morphine. There's another for blood pressure. Another for saline fluids. He 's got these tubes that go to these devises on his feet to keep the muscles moving to prevent blood clots (which was pretty cool, actually). In front of him is a tray of unappetizing hospital liquids (clear only) that he's got to pretend are bearable while trying to get Mr. Stomach to play nicely.
But with the unfamiliar site came some humor.
As I learned, one of the perks to visiting a man doped up on morphine is you have no idea what he'll say or talk about. So, when he was awake he was a riot. He told us the ins and outs of poker strategy for a good 20 minutes. We knew the drugs were flowing like a riv er when the stories hit repeat. A good sign to tell us he needs his rest and it's time to head on home. My favorite conversation he had was with the nurse who tried to seem empathetic to whatever he wanted, which was solid food. After checking for him, she informed my dad that only liquids could be consumed. He bargained for some juice and she thought about it and said, "how about a sierra mist? You can choose from diet or regular." Oh goodie, a kid in a candy store. Nevertheless, it was really funny to see a 50 something old man sort of pout for not getting what he wanted. But who could blame him? He just had his prostate removed and holes put into his abdomen for life threatening reasons...after having to fast for 48 hours. I think I'd want a little something to make me happy too, but that's just me...and my dad, ha, right?
But on any note - he's doing well. He'll be stuck in the hospital all day tomorrow and hopes to go home Wednesday, where he gets to stay bed ridden for a full week. That won't be too much fun, but at least he gets the comfort of home and not the overly clean yet deathly smell of the hospital. Blech. So, here's to him, his health and the hope that cancer stays the hell away from him again. It's become too much of a trend in my families and I'd prefer it to be a fad that fades away as fast as it's come around.
What else?
Oh - Saturday - day 1 of the fasting for dad - we were able to check out The Million Dollar Quartet at the Apollo Theater in Chicago. Well worth the money paid. If you're a fan of Elvis, Johnny Cash or Jerry Lee Lewis then it's worth checking out. The theater is intimate; I don't think there was a bad seat in the house. From the moment the house lights went down to the time they went back up it was nonstop music. The storyline was a tad weak but anytime you thought, "well, this seems a bit far fetched..." there would be more music and good music at that. I looked around throughout the show and people were always singing along or tapping their feet. It was almost like a show for people who don't really go and see shows...if that makes sense.
From there - off to the south end of Grant Park to check out Adam's entry to the snow sculpting com petition. It was really, really cool to see all of the sculptures. I think Adam was robbed for 3rd place but hey - he still placed and now I can say I know someone who does something like that. For it and his upcoming birthday we were able to celebrate with him at a local bar. I had hoped many more folks could come play because I knew we'd have fun and we almost got ourselves into a whole world of trouble, but the photos turned out well. It's always a good time when Adam works his way back home. There's always plenty of funky stories and Budweiser for everyone.
Today was covered. I decided earlier in the weekend that I wouldn't work on Monday. It's been stressful and with my dad's surgery, I would've rather been work stress free in case something went off track and to make it easier t o visit. And, with a lot of PTO, I did just that. Not working always provides a great opportunity to slow cook food. So, I made some braised beef short ribs. It was a hearty meal and the wine (3 squared) was delicious with it. Or as Rachel Ray says, d-lish.
Kim and I now have a new closet, which is going to take a little getting used to. I walk in expecting to see a dresser and now it's floor-to-ceiling Elfa closets. It's nifty and provided a lot more space. Al and I worked to install it. Not as easy as they make it out to be but a lot easier to install than what was there before. It's worth checking out.
I'm also working on selling off a couple of things. Kim calls this "me
growing up." I call it "aaaah, come on..." I have a surplus of speakers around the house that need a good home. I also have a 15", yeah a 15" subwoofer that may go to a new home. It's so good. So loud. So awesome, but doesn't get the love it deserves here. I wish it did though cause MAN can it thump with ease. Same with a receiver. Just don't have a need for it. It'll do me some good, I guess. I can move my better speakers downstairs for TV/Music/Video game use and get some better than average computer speakers up here for something more consistent and wire free. Then again, until I find me a taker they'll stay connected because what's the point in taking it all down if it'll just go back up later? Growing up sucks sometimes. Kim's trying to convince me that a subwoofer looks tacky as an end table. I disagree...sort of. hehe.
Growing up isn't all bad. In a month or two we'll get our government money for buying the house and in comes a new kitchen, or so we plan. I'll need to enlist the help of Leo - the only man I know who sounds excited about installing new anything. It's good to have someone like that because I would stare at the new cabinets or appliances and try to will them with my mind to install themselves. It should be a whole new kitchen when we're done with it...I hope. Appliances, counters, cabinets. If there's leftover we could be smart and save it...OR put it towards other fun house fixing ups such as making the master bathroom more of a master bath experience or faux wood blinds around the house because the metal ones are so damn hard to clean. Who knows. Right now it's all in my head trying to be sorted out. I have no idea how we'll redo the kitchen or what we can do...more on that to come.
Anyway - a lot's been going on. Good stuff but a lot of stuff.
This week should fly by. Then the weekend again. PHEW. There'll be my mom's birthday celebration, another dance competition, the Superbowl (anyone have plans for that yet?) and...who knows what else.
I had a fun filled weekend of the arts of a variety of sorts, many delicious brews and deciding, "ya know what, I'm not gonna go to work and that's a-ok."
Bright and early this morning my dad had cancer surgery. The good news is - the doctor said it went as well as it could have. The bad is that he's doped up on morphine and in funky levels of pain. It was a 3.5 hour surgery, which isn't so bad I'm told. Mid today, Kim and I decided to go visit his recovering self in the hospital and see if he was up and coherent. Luckily for us he was. It was depressingly positive, if such an emotion exists. You're happy to see that your dad is still around. The surgery intended to remove him of a life threatening cancer is potentially removed and the road to good health and recovery should be all we see from here on out. Any other option is one I refuse to consider at this point. The oddity was walking into a hospital room to see your dad all hooked up like he's an extra in the Matrix. There's one wire for morphine. There's another for blood pressure. Another for saline fluids. He 's got these tubes that go to these devises on his feet to keep the muscles moving to prevent blood clots (which was pretty cool, actually). In front of him is a tray of unappetizing hospital liquids (clear only) that he's got to pretend are bearable while trying to get Mr. Stomach to play nicely.
But with the unfamiliar site came some humor.
As I learned, one of the perks to visiting a man doped up on morphine is you have no idea what he'll say or talk about. So, when he was awake he was a riot. He told us the ins and outs of poker strategy for a good 20 minutes. We knew the drugs were flowing like a riv er when the stories hit repeat. A good sign to tell us he needs his rest and it's time to head on home. My favorite conversation he had was with the nurse who tried to seem empathetic to whatever he wanted, which was solid food. After checking for him, she informed my dad that only liquids could be consumed. He bargained for some juice and she thought about it and said, "how about a sierra mist? You can choose from diet or regular." Oh goodie, a kid in a candy store. Nevertheless, it was really funny to see a 50 something old man sort of pout for not getting what he wanted. But who could blame him? He just had his prostate removed and holes put into his abdomen for life threatening reasons...after having to fast for 48 hours. I think I'd want a little something to make me happy too, but that's just me...and my dad, ha, right?
But on any note - he's doing well. He'll be stuck in the hospital all day tomorrow and hopes to go home Wednesday, where he gets to stay bed ridden for a full week. That won't be too much fun, but at least he gets the comfort of home and not the overly clean yet deathly smell of the hospital. Blech. So, here's to him, his health and the hope that cancer stays the hell away from him again. It's become too much of a trend in my families and I'd prefer it to be a fad that fades away as fast as it's come around.
What else?
Oh - Saturday - day 1 of the fasting for dad - we were able to check out The Million Dollar Quartet at the Apollo Theater in Chicago. Well worth the money paid. If you're a fan of Elvis, Johnny Cash or Jerry Lee Lewis then it's worth checking out. The theater is intimate; I don't think there was a bad seat in the house. From the moment the house lights went down to the time they went back up it was nonstop music. The storyline was a tad weak but anytime you thought, "well, this seems a bit far fetched..." there would be more music and good music at that. I looked around throughout the show and people were always singing along or tapping their feet. It was almost like a show for people who don't really go and see shows...if that makes sense.
From there - off to the south end of Grant Park to check out Adam's entry to the snow sculpting com petition. It was really, really cool to see all of the sculptures. I think Adam was robbed for 3rd place but hey - he still placed and now I can say I know someone who does something like that. For it and his upcoming birthday we were able to celebrate with him at a local bar. I had hoped many more folks could come play because I knew we'd have fun and we almost got ourselves into a whole world of trouble, but the photos turned out well. It's always a good time when Adam works his way back home. There's always plenty of funky stories and Budweiser for everyone.
Today was covered. I decided earlier in the weekend that I wouldn't work on Monday. It's been stressful and with my dad's surgery, I would've rather been work stress free in case something went off track and to make it easier t o visit. And, with a lot of PTO, I did just that. Not working always provides a great opportunity to slow cook food. So, I made some braised beef short ribs. It was a hearty meal and the wine (3 squared) was delicious with it. Or as Rachel Ray says, d-lish.Kim and I now have a new closet, which is going to take a little getting used to. I walk in expecting to see a dresser and now it's floor-to-ceiling Elfa closets. It's nifty and provided a lot more space. Al and I worked to install it. Not as easy as they make it out to be but a lot easier to install than what was there before. It's worth checking out.
I'm also working on selling off a couple of things. Kim calls this "me
growing up." I call it "aaaah, come on..." I have a surplus of speakers around the house that need a good home. I also have a 15", yeah a 15" subwoofer that may go to a new home. It's so good. So loud. So awesome, but doesn't get the love it deserves here. I wish it did though cause MAN can it thump with ease. Same with a receiver. Just don't have a need for it. It'll do me some good, I guess. I can move my better speakers downstairs for TV/Music/Video game use and get some better than average computer speakers up here for something more consistent and wire free. Then again, until I find me a taker they'll stay connected because what's the point in taking it all down if it'll just go back up later? Growing up sucks sometimes. Kim's trying to convince me that a subwoofer looks tacky as an end table. I disagree...sort of. hehe.Growing up isn't all bad. In a month or two we'll get our government money for buying the house and in comes a new kitchen, or so we plan. I'll need to enlist the help of Leo - the only man I know who sounds excited about installing new anything. It's good to have someone like that because I would stare at the new cabinets or appliances and try to will them with my mind to install themselves. It should be a whole new kitchen when we're done with it...I hope. Appliances, counters, cabinets. If there's leftover we could be smart and save it...OR put it towards other fun house fixing ups such as making the master bathroom more of a master bath experience or faux wood blinds around the house because the metal ones are so damn hard to clean. Who knows. Right now it's all in my head trying to be sorted out. I have no idea how we'll redo the kitchen or what we can do...more on that to come.
Anyway - a lot's been going on. Good stuff but a lot of stuff.
This week should fly by. Then the weekend again. PHEW. There'll be my mom's birthday celebration, another dance competition, the Superbowl (anyone have plans for that yet?) and...who knows what else.
1.29.2010
Corporate Calamity
Tonight, I'm super tired but I'm all riled up still.
A coworker's managerial style included using feedback I provided on someone to thrash me against them. While this wouldn't be such a bad thing if I said what was relayed. It's frustrating - you get in a spot where you supply feedback for another teammate to better help the manager understand what's going on and then the recipient of the information spins it around.
I left high school almost 10 years ago and I'm not about to get a bad rep because of some information-mutating twit. Blerg.
This is a situation where I step back and tell myself - this is stupid, don't let yourself get worked up over it, it'll pass soon enough. But it's tough when you're in the "now" of it all, ya know?
It's too bad most of us have our best moments of clarity after the fact. Too often I'll want to snap it out in a moment of haste but have been working much harder on just holding it back and letting it sift and simmer before addressing anything major. Despite wanting to dial the person up today to talk it out, I knew it wouldn't accomplish anything. Hell, even going to my own boss to casually mention it wasn't the best idea.
It also reaffirmed my dislike for passive aggressiveness. If something bugs you that I did (or you think I did) then come on out and say it. No need to suppress it, unless it wasn't really worth being upset about in the first place...which usually seems to be the case. In this instance, the gal who felt blindsided kept getting fed BS and finally broke and emailed me about it. Sigh. I know confrontation isn't anyone's favorite thing to do, but if something (whether true or misinterpreted) comes to bother you enough to act on it - then just walk over, call or something. I'd even accept an instant message. Emailing. Pah.
I get too casual and easygoing with what I'll say and talk about. Sometimes, I'll lose sight of what people will take as common conversation and actual truth. Sometimes you get caddy and just vent on whatever comes to mind. Doesn't make it truth, just gets random feelings out of the system. Petitioning for feedback from people to only twist it and use it against you to better your own perceptions from others is irritating, to say the least.
See, look, now I keep writing, which means I need to sleep it off.
I reaffirmed another thing, as it pertains to how I manage people; the best results come from treating everyone as equals, whether they are or if they are not. No matter what your role or rank, if you're all working for the same goal and support each other in the process then you'll better reach it. But, if you use your power for evil or pit others against each other with the attempt at progress then things will eventually hit a standstill and progress will cease.
I've always been one to trust that people, when given a task, should be able to complete it on their own. We're all adults, why not try a little faith until proven otherwise? I know I say that the world is filled with stupid people (if it weren't, who might we make fun of?), but it doesn't mean they're too stupid to do work and figure things out. Mind you, I'm not saying hug it out and be all buddy buddy, I'm merely saying that people work better in an environment where they feel relaxed and trusted to do their job, not micromanaged or undermined.
But on any note. I could bitch about the frustrating personalities of the work place for pages upon pages...or blog after blog. The week is finally drawing to a close. I'm exhausted and should try to get a little bit of sleep.
There's a closet being assembled soon and we'll feel more organized. A show to see. A friend to celebrate with. And hopefully some other pals will come out to partake in the good times.
Good night.
A coworker's managerial style included using feedback I provided on someone to thrash me against them. While this wouldn't be such a bad thing if I said what was relayed. It's frustrating - you get in a spot where you supply feedback for another teammate to better help the manager understand what's going on and then the recipient of the information spins it around.
I left high school almost 10 years ago and I'm not about to get a bad rep because of some information-mutating twit. Blerg.
This is a situation where I step back and tell myself - this is stupid, don't let yourself get worked up over it, it'll pass soon enough. But it's tough when you're in the "now" of it all, ya know?
It's too bad most of us have our best moments of clarity after the fact. Too often I'll want to snap it out in a moment of haste but have been working much harder on just holding it back and letting it sift and simmer before addressing anything major. Despite wanting to dial the person up today to talk it out, I knew it wouldn't accomplish anything. Hell, even going to my own boss to casually mention it wasn't the best idea.
It also reaffirmed my dislike for passive aggressiveness. If something bugs you that I did (or you think I did) then come on out and say it. No need to suppress it, unless it wasn't really worth being upset about in the first place...which usually seems to be the case. In this instance, the gal who felt blindsided kept getting fed BS and finally broke and emailed me about it. Sigh. I know confrontation isn't anyone's favorite thing to do, but if something (whether true or misinterpreted) comes to bother you enough to act on it - then just walk over, call or something. I'd even accept an instant message. Emailing. Pah.
I get too casual and easygoing with what I'll say and talk about. Sometimes, I'll lose sight of what people will take as common conversation and actual truth. Sometimes you get caddy and just vent on whatever comes to mind. Doesn't make it truth, just gets random feelings out of the system. Petitioning for feedback from people to only twist it and use it against you to better your own perceptions from others is irritating, to say the least.
See, look, now I keep writing, which means I need to sleep it off.
I reaffirmed another thing, as it pertains to how I manage people; the best results come from treating everyone as equals, whether they are or if they are not. No matter what your role or rank, if you're all working for the same goal and support each other in the process then you'll better reach it. But, if you use your power for evil or pit others against each other with the attempt at progress then things will eventually hit a standstill and progress will cease.
I've always been one to trust that people, when given a task, should be able to complete it on their own. We're all adults, why not try a little faith until proven otherwise? I know I say that the world is filled with stupid people (if it weren't, who might we make fun of?), but it doesn't mean they're too stupid to do work and figure things out. Mind you, I'm not saying hug it out and be all buddy buddy, I'm merely saying that people work better in an environment where they feel relaxed and trusted to do their job, not micromanaged or undermined.
But on any note. I could bitch about the frustrating personalities of the work place for pages upon pages...or blog after blog. The week is finally drawing to a close. I'm exhausted and should try to get a little bit of sleep.
There's a closet being assembled soon and we'll feel more organized. A show to see. A friend to celebrate with. And hopefully some other pals will come out to partake in the good times.
Good night.
1.28.2010
Feelin' Old
5 short years out of college...
If I lift something wrong...it hurts.
If I work out...it hurts
If I get hammered...the next day...it usually hurts (because I don't keep drinkin' water)
If I eat 2lbs of wings...parts of me hurt.
Man...what gives?
Plus, in college, if I ate 2 delicious pounds of wings...I could go back and do it again the next day (and for a low, low price as well). Now, that much food makes me fat. Fat?! COME ON!
Metabolism is the devil.
I'm sure if I were in shape or at least exerting effort to be in shape, I wouldn't hurt as quickly if I did something physically stupid. But, I'm still being lazy and blaming it on anything. It's too cold. I want warmth. I don't want to join a gym. I'm too hungry, too tired, too lazy...
In only a few short years I have gone from a lifestyle of eating multiple Tombstone pizzas with the roommates (or a $5 Hot & Ready from LCs) to watching what I eat. I lived in metabolism changing denial after college. I would take down 1/2 a box of pasta with ease. Rich and I would destroy BWW 3 nights a week. We'd add in beers and a tub...yes a tub...of blue cheese to cool those wings-of-the-night down. So, naturally, when weight gain came along I blamed...something else. Haha...
Subsequently - the weight flux screwed with my lactose tolerance. It's amazing - once I dropped 20, I could eat dairy again. Weird...
This isn't about weight though. It only is because it was fun being able to destroy my body with
sugary delights and take out every night. I could hit the Bermuda triangle of downtown 'Nona then finish it up with some Erbs or Hardees and feel magical in the AM. God...to think about Hardees sober makes my butt go "blerg, blergy, blerg." Ever make you grossed out by the stuff you used to eat but couldn't anymore? I like that I've become involved in the kitchen and educated on food. It allows me to be pickier and help others, if necessary. No one believes an expert of the Little Debbie snack. I can't even remember the last time I had a Nutty Bar or Swiss Cake Roll. Though, the chocolate chip cookies Kim whipped up last night were...are delish.All of this makes me wish corporate America would institute nap hour. Nap time. Nap place. Something. That 230 hump in the day is a monster. I'd happily stay an extra bit longer if I could power nap somewhere clean. Caffeine will tire me out later and I usually pay for it. A nap room...could be genius. Or - let me go into work later.
I know the old white folk in my work love to be at work around 6. HA. If I showed up at 9 someone might poop themselves. I remember fearing the 8am class and now it's when I should be at work. Meh.
Anyway, I'm not old yet but I'll get there and I'm certainly not 21 anymore. The dumb injuries of the past are slowly beginning to stick around longer, linger and just be an irritant.
I remember when I was a kid, we could always tell when Mom was coming up the stairs because her ankle would crack on each stair she hit. I thought "she's old, that'll never happen to me." At the time, she couldn't have been any older than my age. And, of course, when I twist my ankle...crackity crack. Same for the back, or the knee or neck and knuckles. Yikes.
Whatever, though, right? Life is a cycle. You start out as a kid, you peak and then slowly revert back to being a kid. It's not all bad. The rest of us are going through the same thing, we just find new ways to hide it or make up for it.
I don't mind the eating healthier part. I still enjoy a really shitty burger from time to time and I'll always love McNuggets, but they aren't a staple like they once were. My arteries and waistline thank me for that. Mmm...nuggets. I always loved the "dark meat" nuggets from the 80s-90s...tasty...Anyway - that's all that's on my mind tonight. It only came about because my shoulder is still mysteriously sore. Thank goodness Kim purchased me some heating pads (she's the bestest).
1.25.2010
Mmm...music
I haven't played in anything too new. I'm waiting for something to blow my mind. Any suggestions?
More reviews coming at ya:
fun. - "Ignite & Aim"
From what was The Format comes 'fun.' It's a slower, more melodic version of The Format. If I had to choose I would stick with The Format's first CD. All you're really getting out of the fun. cd is the lead singer of The Format and a lot of additional instruments. I hope they have a second album because, though it's good, they could really make some catchy music together.
B-
Jason Mraz - "Jason Mraz's Beautiful Mess - Live On Earth"
It was inevitable. Jason's become a full blown, granola-loving, vegan endorsing hippie. It was only a matter of time. I think the best part of this live CD is that it was taped in Chicago. You can rarely go wrong there. I'm left torn on this effort. Where I want to throw down an A+ and call it a day, I won't. It's not his best effort. Most of the songs are slowed down...way down. I wouldn't put it past Jason that he was stoned out of his mind before this show. Along with the fact that he played in a big venue, which isn't very Jason like. There's something to be said about seeing him live though and maybe that's what this album lacks, which is actually being there. I'm ready for his next studio effort or a live album from his upcoming solo shows. But until then - this album is too rubbed down with patchouli oil for me to fully get my love on for it.
C
John Mayer - "Battle Studies"
Mom rock a la John Mayer. It's John of a different era. I'm not sure if he was tired, lazy or out of ideas but there's nothing new here. Like someone told me, "it's a continuation of Continuum," but, to me, without the enjoyable guitar solos. The lyrics fall short. I feel grumpy when I put this album on because I keep hoping it will be a lot better than it is. But - it could be a new chapter for Mr. Mayer and I may need to learn to love it. I didn't enjoy Continuum at first but can always put it on and enjoy it. I don't want John to fall in the trap of, "well, people know who I am so they'll buy my record." Hopefully, he's using this overly mellow crap to lure himself some more Cougars and then get back to the good stuff.
C
Ke$ha - "Animal"
Half good, half bad. But the good half is really good. "Tik Tok" has been on the radio for awhile and it isn't driving me bananas yet. It's still so damn catchy. For the rest of the album, "Animal" and "Blah, Blah, Blah" I think are catchy and fun to listen to. For her first effort, I think it has some good stuff. When you're midway through the disc and you come across a song called "Party At a Rich Dude's House," you know you're going to have a good time. The CD basically sounds like Disney Channel dance tunes with dirtier lyrics. I'm a sucker for both.
B+
Lady Gaga - "The Fame Monster"
I have to say - I am not a Lady Gaga fan but this EP is good...really good. "Teeth" is awesome. I bought it because Kim is/was/is into "Bad Romance" and I tried to hate it, I really did but she is good at making a catchy song. It's inexpensive, it's good for parties and it's not bad on the ears. I know I'll buy (or find) whatever she comes out with next. For that...
A
Matt & Kim - "Grand"
If you know who Matt & Kim are and you like them, then you'll like this CD. Their music's for a certain type of people. This is like the Ke$ha CD in the sense that 1/2 of it I really, really like and 1/2 of it hurts my ears. I do enjoy how simple it all is and they don't hide behind Auto-tune (ahhem, Vampire Weekend...) If you're a M&K fan, I say get it.
B
Michael Buble - "Crazy Love"
He's good at what he does, which is croon. "Haven't Met You Yet" might be one of the few new songs on this album but it's cool to see his take on some of the classics. It's easy to listen to. He has a flawless voice. It's almost too clean and produced but it's a good formula to sell a lot of records. If you're a Buble fan then this album is worth purchasing.
A-
Vampire Weekend - "Contra"
Let's see here...go buy this album. It's awesome. I don't want to analyze every track because that would take the fun out of this album. They play in auto-tune (and I don't know why) but they pick up and build on where the last album left. It's catchy and fun. We should see a lot more of VW in commercials, movies and around town because it's different and because it's good. Get it.
A
More reviews coming at ya:
fun. - "Ignite & Aim"
From what was The Format comes 'fun.' It's a slower, more melodic version of The Format. If I had to choose I would stick with The Format's first CD. All you're really getting out of the fun. cd is the lead singer of The Format and a lot of additional instruments. I hope they have a second album because, though it's good, they could really make some catchy music together.
B-
Jason Mraz - "Jason Mraz's Beautiful Mess - Live On Earth"
It was inevitable. Jason's become a full blown, granola-loving, vegan endorsing hippie. It was only a matter of time. I think the best part of this live CD is that it was taped in Chicago. You can rarely go wrong there. I'm left torn on this effort. Where I want to throw down an A+ and call it a day, I won't. It's not his best effort. Most of the songs are slowed down...way down. I wouldn't put it past Jason that he was stoned out of his mind before this show. Along with the fact that he played in a big venue, which isn't very Jason like. There's something to be said about seeing him live though and maybe that's what this album lacks, which is actually being there. I'm ready for his next studio effort or a live album from his upcoming solo shows. But until then - this album is too rubbed down with patchouli oil for me to fully get my love on for it.
C
John Mayer - "Battle Studies"
Mom rock a la John Mayer. It's John of a different era. I'm not sure if he was tired, lazy or out of ideas but there's nothing new here. Like someone told me, "it's a continuation of Continuum," but, to me, without the enjoyable guitar solos. The lyrics fall short. I feel grumpy when I put this album on because I keep hoping it will be a lot better than it is. But - it could be a new chapter for Mr. Mayer and I may need to learn to love it. I didn't enjoy Continuum at first but can always put it on and enjoy it. I don't want John to fall in the trap of, "well, people know who I am so they'll buy my record." Hopefully, he's using this overly mellow crap to lure himself some more Cougars and then get back to the good stuff.
C
Ke$ha - "Animal"
Half good, half bad. But the good half is really good. "Tik Tok" has been on the radio for awhile and it isn't driving me bananas yet. It's still so damn catchy. For the rest of the album, "Animal" and "Blah, Blah, Blah" I think are catchy and fun to listen to. For her first effort, I think it has some good stuff. When you're midway through the disc and you come across a song called "Party At a Rich Dude's House," you know you're going to have a good time. The CD basically sounds like Disney Channel dance tunes with dirtier lyrics. I'm a sucker for both.
B+
Lady Gaga - "The Fame Monster"
I have to say - I am not a Lady Gaga fan but this EP is good...really good. "Teeth" is awesome. I bought it because Kim is/was/is into "Bad Romance" and I tried to hate it, I really did but she is good at making a catchy song. It's inexpensive, it's good for parties and it's not bad on the ears. I know I'll buy (or find) whatever she comes out with next. For that...
A
Matt & Kim - "Grand"
If you know who Matt & Kim are and you like them, then you'll like this CD. Their music's for a certain type of people. This is like the Ke$ha CD in the sense that 1/2 of it I really, really like and 1/2 of it hurts my ears. I do enjoy how simple it all is and they don't hide behind Auto-tune (ahhem, Vampire Weekend...) If you're a M&K fan, I say get it.
B
Michael Buble - "Crazy Love"
He's good at what he does, which is croon. "Haven't Met You Yet" might be one of the few new songs on this album but it's cool to see his take on some of the classics. It's easy to listen to. He has a flawless voice. It's almost too clean and produced but it's a good formula to sell a lot of records. If you're a Buble fan then this album is worth purchasing.
A-
Vampire Weekend - "Contra"
Let's see here...go buy this album. It's awesome. I don't want to analyze every track because that would take the fun out of this album. They play in auto-tune (and I don't know why) but they pick up and build on where the last album left. It's catchy and fun. We should see a lot more of VW in commercials, movies and around town because it's different and because it's good. Get it.
A
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