Friday, July 28, 2006
SEXY BITCHES AND DANCING ON THE CONSTITUTION...
Okay, so one of these actually sounds pretty good, right? Yes, I thought so, and it just so happens that I consider myself a "sexy bitch" too! However, that's not what the title refers to. These were two focal points of a dream I had last night. Yes, I actually wrote a couple of things down.
What was going on was that I was with a huge group of friends in some big city where one of them lived. Anyway, my buddy keeps telling me that we have to go to "Grmhgpy's" (I couldn't make out the name of the place, and he said it at least ten times) because it's the only place where you could dance on the constitution. Not sure what that means, but you could supposedly do it there.
So, we go to this restaurant and the first thing that happens is we all sit down at this huge table and the server comes by and throws a huge turkey sandwich on the plates in front of us. He starts talking and says something like "Every time you hear (inaudible) you have to say 'SEXY BITCH'. Then, for every pound, (again inaudible) you have to do this dance!" The dance was kind of like the running man, but you had to get up on the table to do it.
It was all really odd, to tell the truth. He ended up asking a friend of mine (I guess, I don't really know who it was) that was sitting at the other end of the table some question, and everyone shouts out "Sexy bitch" and they all start getting up on the table to do the dance. I was just kind of sitting there. I was clueless. Such is life I guess.
Anyway, that was my crazy dream for the night! I've decided to start doing something on here, or maybe starting another blog about it, but, I'm going to start here, today. What I'm going to call it is my "Rules of Thumb". I'm always telling Adrianne, "As a rule of thumb, you should..." They're always little tidbits about anything and everything. It kind of came to me last night, right as I was trying to go to sleep. I'll try to post one everyday. Some may be helpful, most probably won't be though.
So, without further adieu...
Rule of Thumb #1:
Unless you were born in Bombay, have extensive knowledge of the backstreets of Calcutta, know where Muzaffarnagar is, or have the last name of Patel, then you probably should not try eating Indian food on three consecutive days. It's just not in your best interest. Believe me!
**EDIT: I started up another blog just for these "Rules". Check in HERE to see the details. It's not pretty, just yet, but I haven't had too much time to work on it. However, the rules will be there. I'll try to put a reminder on here every day though.**
What was going on was that I was with a huge group of friends in some big city where one of them lived. Anyway, my buddy keeps telling me that we have to go to "Grmhgpy's" (I couldn't make out the name of the place, and he said it at least ten times) because it's the only place where you could dance on the constitution. Not sure what that means, but you could supposedly do it there.
So, we go to this restaurant and the first thing that happens is we all sit down at this huge table and the server comes by and throws a huge turkey sandwich on the plates in front of us. He starts talking and says something like "Every time you hear (inaudible) you have to say 'SEXY BITCH'. Then, for every pound, (again inaudible) you have to do this dance!" The dance was kind of like the running man, but you had to get up on the table to do it.
It was all really odd, to tell the truth. He ended up asking a friend of mine (I guess, I don't really know who it was) that was sitting at the other end of the table some question, and everyone shouts out "Sexy bitch" and they all start getting up on the table to do the dance. I was just kind of sitting there. I was clueless. Such is life I guess.
Anyway, that was my crazy dream for the night! I've decided to start doing something on here, or maybe starting another blog about it, but, I'm going to start here, today. What I'm going to call it is my "Rules of Thumb". I'm always telling Adrianne, "As a rule of thumb, you should..." They're always little tidbits about anything and everything. It kind of came to me last night, right as I was trying to go to sleep. I'll try to post one everyday. Some may be helpful, most probably won't be though.
So, without further adieu...
Rule of Thumb #1:
Unless you were born in Bombay, have extensive knowledge of the backstreets of Calcutta, know where Muzaffarnagar is, or have the last name of Patel, then you probably should not try eating Indian food on three consecutive days. It's just not in your best interest. Believe me!
**EDIT: I started up another blog just for these "Rules". Check in HERE to see the details. It's not pretty, just yet, but I haven't had too much time to work on it. However, the rules will be there. I'll try to put a reminder on here every day though.**
Thursday, July 27, 2006
WELL DUH!?!
I just had an epiphany! It occurred to me while in the waning minutes of a "think session". I decided that I never want the outside world to control my little world. I see too many of my co-workers, bosses, and just business people in general that spend so much time watching the news, stock tickers, reading the Wall Street Journal or Business Weekly, yet have no idea about their own health, what's going on in their kids' and/or spouses' lives, or just what's happening right in front of them.
Personally, I think it's sad. Some may just say that I'm egotistical, and I should care more about what's happening across the globe and in New York (on Wall Street), but I don't. I own one stock, and that's because it's part of my retirement savings plan here at work. I don't have a clue how that stock is doing though. Nor do I care to watch it every second of every day. It's just not my bag of chips.
Okay, I'm done. I'm going back to my little world of thinking about "me" and Adrianne. Yeah, I might do a little work this afternoon too. Don't count on it though!
Personally, I think it's sad. Some may just say that I'm egotistical, and I should care more about what's happening across the globe and in New York (on Wall Street), but I don't. I own one stock, and that's because it's part of my retirement savings plan here at work. I don't have a clue how that stock is doing though. Nor do I care to watch it every second of every day. It's just not my bag of chips.
Okay, I'm done. I'm going back to my little world of thinking about "me" and Adrianne. Yeah, I might do a little work this afternoon too. Don't count on it though!
POOF! THEY'RE GONE!
Well, I woke up this morning at 3:15 and had a great idea for my entry today. However, I fell back asleep before I wrote it down, so I've been struggling for thoughts. Instead, I've actually been working all morning. I know that's a huge surprise to many, but things have to get done around here. If I don't do it, then it won't get done!
Adrianne and I went to the ballgame last night with Mary Jo, and one of Adrianne's new co-workers and her husband. It was a good fit for us, since he's a sports guy, like myself, and his wife could care less, like mine. So, we ate some BBQ nachos in the first inning, then switched seats around so the fellas could talk sports and the girls could talk about whatever they talk about.
The game wasn't too great, since the Redbirds lost, again, but the company was good. We talked about a ton of things, and I may have found a football watching buddy to spend Sunday's with. That is, barring interference from our wives.
I decided to take lunch a little early today so that I could accompany my good friend Harsh to India Palace. You know good and damn well that I'm not going to pass up a chance to eat some Indian food, even though I've had it for three of my last six meals. Yeah, I'll pay for that later, but that's another story.
Okay, well a pretty boring post today, if I do say so myself. This is what happens when you can't stay awake long enough to write down the best ideas. I'm wondering how many times I've found the cure to cancer in my pre-waking thoughts. I guess it's a good thing I put that notepad by my bed, right?
Adrianne and I went to the ballgame last night with Mary Jo, and one of Adrianne's new co-workers and her husband. It was a good fit for us, since he's a sports guy, like myself, and his wife could care less, like mine. So, we ate some BBQ nachos in the first inning, then switched seats around so the fellas could talk sports and the girls could talk about whatever they talk about.
The game wasn't too great, since the Redbirds lost, again, but the company was good. We talked about a ton of things, and I may have found a football watching buddy to spend Sunday's with. That is, barring interference from our wives.
I decided to take lunch a little early today so that I could accompany my good friend Harsh to India Palace. You know good and damn well that I'm not going to pass up a chance to eat some Indian food, even though I've had it for three of my last six meals. Yeah, I'll pay for that later, but that's another story.
Okay, well a pretty boring post today, if I do say so myself. This is what happens when you can't stay awake long enough to write down the best ideas. I'm wondering how many times I've found the cure to cancer in my pre-waking thoughts. I guess it's a good thing I put that notepad by my bed, right?
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
OH GEEZ!!!
What a crazy night of sleep I had! Because of it, I feel like I didn't sleep at all. There are only two things that I can blame it on though... Beer (Blue Moon to be exact) and Indian food. I didn't take any sleep aids or sinus pills last night, so that doesn't help. I had some crazy-assed dreams in there, one of which makes me realize that my wife is actually going to be working very, very soon!
I can't remember the dreams, but I know I had at least four of them, and one of my wife and I talking about her teaching and the kids and stuff. This is nearly amusing, because we had a good discussion about it while we were eating dinner.
For dinner I made some Korma Coconut chicken over Basmati rice. Yes, it's as tasty as it sounds. Actually, I was very, very pleased with how it turned out. I had some expectations, and it fully exceeded them. I think it'll be a long time before I head to India Palace, now, since it cost me less than five dollars for the whole meal, and I have enough leftover for another serving. The only thing we were missing was the Naan, and we're going to get that next time!
After dinner we met Mary Jo up on the rooftop to enjoy a cold beverage and a beautiful evening. We just barely missed the sunset, but that's okay. I may complain about the heat during the day, but the evenings have been nothing short of gorgeous! For some reason the humidity has been dissipating and there's been a wonderful breeze floating through downtown. Who could ask for anything more? TOYOTA!
One last tidbit... Those close to me already know this, but I had knee surgery back in 1994 (to remove a bone spur on my left knee). Anyway, for some crazy reason, I've, just now, started to really have some problems with it again. I can't leave my knee in any one position for more than about 15 seconds or it gets stiff and I can't move it to another position without some excruciating pain. Yeah, this doesn't really work into my sleeping schedule, as you could guess. So, right now, Adrianne and I are trying to figure out what kind of dietary supplement may help my problem. We've researched cherry juice, since it's supposed to be good for arthritis, which is what we're figuring my problem is (more like hoping, anyway). I've been on a steady stream of Tylenol and Advil for the past two weeks, and, truthfully, it's getting pretty old. But, some days are better than others, but it's really putting a damper on my walking up and down stairs (to get a little exercise in).
Oh well, there's the installment for today. I've got a big day of sifting through information! Hopefully I can find what I'm looking for! Damn, I wish "Zombie Day" was still here!
I can't remember the dreams, but I know I had at least four of them, and one of my wife and I talking about her teaching and the kids and stuff. This is nearly amusing, because we had a good discussion about it while we were eating dinner.
For dinner I made some Korma Coconut chicken over Basmati rice. Yes, it's as tasty as it sounds. Actually, I was very, very pleased with how it turned out. I had some expectations, and it fully exceeded them. I think it'll be a long time before I head to India Palace, now, since it cost me less than five dollars for the whole meal, and I have enough leftover for another serving. The only thing we were missing was the Naan, and we're going to get that next time!
After dinner we met Mary Jo up on the rooftop to enjoy a cold beverage and a beautiful evening. We just barely missed the sunset, but that's okay. I may complain about the heat during the day, but the evenings have been nothing short of gorgeous! For some reason the humidity has been dissipating and there's been a wonderful breeze floating through downtown. Who could ask for anything more? TOYOTA!
One last tidbit... Those close to me already know this, but I had knee surgery back in 1994 (to remove a bone spur on my left knee). Anyway, for some crazy reason, I've, just now, started to really have some problems with it again. I can't leave my knee in any one position for more than about 15 seconds or it gets stiff and I can't move it to another position without some excruciating pain. Yeah, this doesn't really work into my sleeping schedule, as you could guess. So, right now, Adrianne and I are trying to figure out what kind of dietary supplement may help my problem. We've researched cherry juice, since it's supposed to be good for arthritis, which is what we're figuring my problem is (more like hoping, anyway). I've been on a steady stream of Tylenol and Advil for the past two weeks, and, truthfully, it's getting pretty old. But, some days are better than others, but it's really putting a damper on my walking up and down stairs (to get a little exercise in).
Oh well, there's the installment for today. I've got a big day of sifting through information! Hopefully I can find what I'm looking for! Damn, I wish "Zombie Day" was still here!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
WHEN ZOMBIES ARE INVOLVED, COMEDY INSUES...
There's really not much going on. I've been working on my "project" pretty much all morning, but thought I'd take a break, read some news, and make a short post. In the middle of all of this I wandered into our break room here at work and looked up at the TV. Most of the people here usually leave the channel on MSNBC, FOX News, or some sort of crappy channel like that (really, who wants to actually watch news all day long?). Today was no different.
As I looked up, I saw our President, George "Duh"-bya Bush, talking about Iraq. Nothing new there. He seems to be on the TV everyday talking about Iraq. Well, in between groping the German Chancellor and talking shit with English PM Tony Blair, anyway.
Anyway, I started to just head straight for the water fountain when something cool flashed across the ticker on the bottom of the screen. I can't remember exactly what it said, but it was close to "Zombies arrested for dancing in Minneapolis". My first thought was "Huh? I gotta check this out!"
Well, the news wasn't going off of President Bush anytime soon, so I v-lined it straight back to my desk to do a Google News search for "Zombie". Here's what it came up with. The story I was actually looking for is located here, but I'll give a synopsis. Supposedly, a group of people, all adults except one juvenile, were dressed up like zombies dancing around the Mall of America. They happened to have some backpacks with them that had radios or something in them, and the police, somehow, thought they had fake "Weapons of Mass Destruction". That was cause enough to arrest them.
That, however, wasn't the most interesting Zombie news of the day!! I was delighted that something is actually going on in Iowa these days (I lived there for a short while, so I'm free to poke as much fun as I want!). Well, if you can consider THE UNDEAD being "something going on". Zombies pillaged through the streets in Iowa City here recently, scaring the shit out of old people and children alike. I'm thinking I may just have to make it back up to Iowa the next time they have one of these "Zombie Rallies", because it sure as hell sounds like a load of fun!
Lastly, a little closer to my old hometown... This is going on in Louisville! You know that if I were back in BG or Owensboro, I would SO being heading to L'ville to be an extra in this movie. Really, who wouldn't want to be covered in blood while eating intestines? Sounds like a party to me!
Anyway, have a great "ZOMBIE" day! That's what I'm officially making July 25th, from here on out.
Oh, and I'm a horrible son! I forgot to call my Mom yesterday on her birthday. We, technically, celebrated it over the weekend, but I still should've called. I just happened to remember this morning when I flipped my calendar over to today.
So, the day after my Mom's birthday is now, officially, "Zombie Day". Well, I felt like a Zombie when I woke up this morning, so, at least, I'm doing my part!
As I looked up, I saw our President, George "Duh"-bya Bush, talking about Iraq. Nothing new there. He seems to be on the TV everyday talking about Iraq. Well, in between groping the German Chancellor and talking shit with English PM Tony Blair, anyway.
Anyway, I started to just head straight for the water fountain when something cool flashed across the ticker on the bottom of the screen. I can't remember exactly what it said, but it was close to "Zombies arrested for dancing in Minneapolis". My first thought was "Huh? I gotta check this out!"
Well, the news wasn't going off of President Bush anytime soon, so I v-lined it straight back to my desk to do a Google News search for "Zombie". Here's what it came up with. The story I was actually looking for is located here, but I'll give a synopsis. Supposedly, a group of people, all adults except one juvenile, were dressed up like zombies dancing around the Mall of America. They happened to have some backpacks with them that had radios or something in them, and the police, somehow, thought they had fake "Weapons of Mass Destruction". That was cause enough to arrest them.
That, however, wasn't the most interesting Zombie news of the day!! I was delighted that something is actually going on in Iowa these days (I lived there for a short while, so I'm free to poke as much fun as I want!). Well, if you can consider THE UNDEAD being "something going on". Zombies pillaged through the streets in Iowa City here recently, scaring the shit out of old people and children alike. I'm thinking I may just have to make it back up to Iowa the next time they have one of these "Zombie Rallies", because it sure as hell sounds like a load of fun!
Lastly, a little closer to my old hometown... This is going on in Louisville! You know that if I were back in BG or Owensboro, I would SO being heading to L'ville to be an extra in this movie. Really, who wouldn't want to be covered in blood while eating intestines? Sounds like a party to me!
Anyway, have a great "ZOMBIE" day! That's what I'm officially making July 25th, from here on out.
Oh, and I'm a horrible son! I forgot to call my Mom yesterday on her birthday. We, technically, celebrated it over the weekend, but I still should've called. I just happened to remember this morning when I flipped my calendar over to today.
So, the day after my Mom's birthday is now, officially, "Zombie Day". Well, I felt like a Zombie when I woke up this morning, so, at least, I'm doing my part!
Monday, July 24, 2006
IF YOU'RE HERE... THEN WHO'S TENDING TO HELL?
That's kind of what I was thinking about last week, with the weather. Now, it doesn't really relate to any single person, but I'd almost swear that Satan, himself, came down to Memphis, just so he could warm up a little bit. Supposedly Hell's kind of cold this time of year?
Well, we got a reprieve from the scorching temperatures. I wasn't here in Memphis over the weekend, but, instead, was up in a little town called Salem, in Missouri. I'm not sure what the population is, but it's a little hole in the wall. Some of my family still lives there, namely both of my Grandmothers, which is reason enough to go back occasionally. This weekend, however, was our annual family reunion.
Most years the temperature is usually pushing the century mark, and the way it felt on Friday when we left, I assumed the same. We got a very nice surprise when we woke up Saturday morning and it was still in the 70's. The peak temperature for the day was 83 degrees, and there was a nice little breeze blowing. Absolutely perfect weather for a family reunion.
I spent most of my time with my cousins, playing softball. We don't have quite enough to get a full game going, so we altered things a little bit. I haven't played softball since I moved to Memphis, and I used to be a pretty decent player. Well, that's all gone! I was lucky to hit the ball out of the infield, and usually I just popped it up. I'm really going to have to get back into playing some sports around here! Otherwise, when Adrianne and I finally have a rookie or two, I won't be able to help them learn the game. That would suck!
Okay, so that's my update for today. I'm actually working away, again, this week. I've officially started my "project", and I'll be pretty busy for, oh, say the next three months! You'll be lucky to hear from me everyday, but I'll try!
Well, we got a reprieve from the scorching temperatures. I wasn't here in Memphis over the weekend, but, instead, was up in a little town called Salem, in Missouri. I'm not sure what the population is, but it's a little hole in the wall. Some of my family still lives there, namely both of my Grandmothers, which is reason enough to go back occasionally. This weekend, however, was our annual family reunion.
Most years the temperature is usually pushing the century mark, and the way it felt on Friday when we left, I assumed the same. We got a very nice surprise when we woke up Saturday morning and it was still in the 70's. The peak temperature for the day was 83 degrees, and there was a nice little breeze blowing. Absolutely perfect weather for a family reunion.
I spent most of my time with my cousins, playing softball. We don't have quite enough to get a full game going, so we altered things a little bit. I haven't played softball since I moved to Memphis, and I used to be a pretty decent player. Well, that's all gone! I was lucky to hit the ball out of the infield, and usually I just popped it up. I'm really going to have to get back into playing some sports around here! Otherwise, when Adrianne and I finally have a rookie or two, I won't be able to help them learn the game. That would suck!
Okay, so that's my update for today. I'm actually working away, again, this week. I've officially started my "project", and I'll be pretty busy for, oh, say the next three months! You'll be lucky to hear from me everyday, but I'll try!
Friday, July 21, 2006
GROUP INTERVENTION...
Not for me though, even though I probably need it for something! I should probably forewarn you that this may get a little long today. I've got a lot to talk about!
Since getting married, Adrianne and I have been thinking about trying to get into some groups and activities in and around our new "home" here in Downtown Memphis. We had our first chance last night when we attended our first "Downtown Neighborhood Association" monthly meeting. It will probably be our last too. We invited our neighbor, Mary Jo, to join in the fun with us.
I don't really have too many problems with people being in their own little "cliques", even though I thought that was supposed to end in high school, but I have other issues with this group. A few of the folks who were members were nice enough. They introduced themselves and talked a little with us. We actually met a very nice couple that live further north down Main Street from us, whom I wouldn't mind hanging out with some more. Most of the people at the function were middle-aged and older, which is also fine with me. There were a few 30-somethings (which I guess I am now?), but very few young professionals (meaning still in their 20's), which was a big surprise.
There was one main MC and he did well and was very cordial. His wife was actually sitting behind me, but I'll get to that later. They had a few different speakers, all of which were interesting, and only spoke for a few minutes each.
The first speaker was a lawyer who was running to be a district court judge. It just so happened that he was on "The Apprentice" some time ago. Obviously everyone else knew this, but I didn't, so it didn't mean anything to me. Believe me! I'm not going to vote for someone based solely on the fact that they were on a crappy "reality" TV show. Instead, tell us your merits and what you'd like to do if elected. That means a lot more to me. Personally, I think he pushed the fact that he was on the TV show too much. That can't be the focus of your candidacy, can it?
The next speaker was the entertainment coordinator for Isaac Hayes restaurant. They have music acts there all the time, and are currently trying to revive "dinner theater" in Memphis. She talked about the show they are doing, which is "A Raisin in the Sun", and the actors, and, of course, the cost (which isn't bad at all). I think Adrianne and I may try to do this, but it is the day before her first day of teaching.
Lastly, the President of MLG&W, Joseph Lee, talked to us for a little while. By this time the natives were getting a little restless or drunk, or both. More often than not, I was straining to hear the speaker (whom I was actually interested in hearing what he had to say) because the two loudmouth women (yes, the MC's wife and her buddy) behind were constantly chattering. If they weren't talking, then everyone else behind them were wrapped up in their own conversations.
You know, it really is rude to talk while someone is on stage, taking time out of their personal schedule, to talk to you. I guess a lot of these people didn't get that idea. It infuriated me that the MC's wife was the worst of the bunch.
The nice couple we met (who have paid their dues and are part of the DNA) were even getting angry about it. More than 10 times they turned around and shot ugly glares at the two cocktail princesses behind me.
At several points I wanted to stand up, interrupt our speakers (any of them, since people were talking throughout all three of them), and just yell out "SHUT THE FUCK UP PEOPLE! WE HAVE SOMEONE SPEAKING UP HERE!!!" Obviously, I did the smart thing and kept my trap shut.
The meeting was held at a small little tavern on Main Street, in between Beale Street and the South Main Arts district. I'm not sure how many people showed up, but there was enough that we were packed in tight, and it was H-O-T, hot! As soon as Mr. Lee finished speaking we headed for the door.
This gave us an opportunity to actually talk to Mr. Lee a little while longer, which was a really pleasant experience. Personally, I think he has an eye on politics very soon. We thought he was a politician when he came into the bar in the first place, but that's another story.
Anyway, we talked for a little while outside of the tavern, and since we were walking back toward our humble abode, he walked and talked with us. We talked about a plethora of things, including, but not limited to, Memphis' growth. It's sad, but that was the highlight of the meeting for us.
All three of us left the actual meeting disappointed. Not a single one of us plan on attending again, nor joining this "association". It may be our loss, who knows? However, if most of these people can't show enough respect for people that have busy personal and professional lives, that are cutting into both to talk to you for a little while, then so be it. Also, when a speaker is talking to you, it's just rude to get drunk and not pay attention to them. You never know, you might have learned something if you were listening.
So, now we're going to try to find another "association" to join. Supposedly there is a South Main Neighborhood Association that meets monthly too. Now, we live at the very beginning of South Main, but I think we will still count. Supposedly it's a different group. I certainly hope it is. I might just get mad enough to say how I'm really feeling if I encounter the same thing again.
We did end the evening on a high note though. We stopped in for a little snack and some Texas Margaritas at Rio Loco. !!Que Bueno!!
Yes, tequila calms even the most savage of beasts!
Since getting married, Adrianne and I have been thinking about trying to get into some groups and activities in and around our new "home" here in Downtown Memphis. We had our first chance last night when we attended our first "Downtown Neighborhood Association" monthly meeting. It will probably be our last too. We invited our neighbor, Mary Jo, to join in the fun with us.
I don't really have too many problems with people being in their own little "cliques", even though I thought that was supposed to end in high school, but I have other issues with this group. A few of the folks who were members were nice enough. They introduced themselves and talked a little with us. We actually met a very nice couple that live further north down Main Street from us, whom I wouldn't mind hanging out with some more. Most of the people at the function were middle-aged and older, which is also fine with me. There were a few 30-somethings (which I guess I am now?), but very few young professionals (meaning still in their 20's), which was a big surprise.
There was one main MC and he did well and was very cordial. His wife was actually sitting behind me, but I'll get to that later. They had a few different speakers, all of which were interesting, and only spoke for a few minutes each.
The first speaker was a lawyer who was running to be a district court judge. It just so happened that he was on "The Apprentice" some time ago. Obviously everyone else knew this, but I didn't, so it didn't mean anything to me. Believe me! I'm not going to vote for someone based solely on the fact that they were on a crappy "reality" TV show. Instead, tell us your merits and what you'd like to do if elected. That means a lot more to me. Personally, I think he pushed the fact that he was on the TV show too much. That can't be the focus of your candidacy, can it?
The next speaker was the entertainment coordinator for Isaac Hayes restaurant. They have music acts there all the time, and are currently trying to revive "dinner theater" in Memphis. She talked about the show they are doing, which is "A Raisin in the Sun", and the actors, and, of course, the cost (which isn't bad at all). I think Adrianne and I may try to do this, but it is the day before her first day of teaching.
Lastly, the President of MLG&W, Joseph Lee, talked to us for a little while. By this time the natives were getting a little restless or drunk, or both. More often than not, I was straining to hear the speaker (whom I was actually interested in hearing what he had to say) because the two loudmouth women (yes, the MC's wife and her buddy) behind were constantly chattering. If they weren't talking, then everyone else behind them were wrapped up in their own conversations.
You know, it really is rude to talk while someone is on stage, taking time out of their personal schedule, to talk to you. I guess a lot of these people didn't get that idea. It infuriated me that the MC's wife was the worst of the bunch.
The nice couple we met (who have paid their dues and are part of the DNA) were even getting angry about it. More than 10 times they turned around and shot ugly glares at the two cocktail princesses behind me.
At several points I wanted to stand up, interrupt our speakers (any of them, since people were talking throughout all three of them), and just yell out "SHUT THE FUCK UP PEOPLE! WE HAVE SOMEONE SPEAKING UP HERE!!!" Obviously, I did the smart thing and kept my trap shut.
The meeting was held at a small little tavern on Main Street, in between Beale Street and the South Main Arts district. I'm not sure how many people showed up, but there was enough that we were packed in tight, and it was H-O-T, hot! As soon as Mr. Lee finished speaking we headed for the door.
This gave us an opportunity to actually talk to Mr. Lee a little while longer, which was a really pleasant experience. Personally, I think he has an eye on politics very soon. We thought he was a politician when he came into the bar in the first place, but that's another story.
Anyway, we talked for a little while outside of the tavern, and since we were walking back toward our humble abode, he walked and talked with us. We talked about a plethora of things, including, but not limited to, Memphis' growth. It's sad, but that was the highlight of the meeting for us.
All three of us left the actual meeting disappointed. Not a single one of us plan on attending again, nor joining this "association". It may be our loss, who knows? However, if most of these people can't show enough respect for people that have busy personal and professional lives, that are cutting into both to talk to you for a little while, then so be it. Also, when a speaker is talking to you, it's just rude to get drunk and not pay attention to them. You never know, you might have learned something if you were listening.
So, now we're going to try to find another "association" to join. Supposedly there is a South Main Neighborhood Association that meets monthly too. Now, we live at the very beginning of South Main, but I think we will still count. Supposedly it's a different group. I certainly hope it is. I might just get mad enough to say how I'm really feeling if I encounter the same thing again.
We did end the evening on a high note though. We stopped in for a little snack and some Texas Margaritas at Rio Loco. !!Que Bueno!!
Yes, tequila calms even the most savage of beasts!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
HO HUM...
Well, there's nothing really exciting happening here today. I've gone through my project, again, and checked to make sure everything is working properly. It looks like it is. Now comes the fun part... Implementation!
I really do feel sorry for my coworkers, because I just keep changing things on them. They get used to one thing, and I change it around, or work something else into it. However, if all goes well, this should be the last "major" update to the function. I'm sure there will be some small glitches here and there, but I fully expect that.
I've got one thing left to do this week, and I plan on knocking it out this afternoon. That would leave me with not much to worry about tomorrow. I could start on my next "BIG" project, but what fun would that be? Actually, I probably will start on it, because my bosses are already asking for information on it, and I have none. Zip, zero, nada!
Maybe I'll spend the better part of tomorrow cleaning out my overhead shelving units, because they are a mess. Every time Adrianne comes by to visit she tells me that I need to clean it up, but I never do. I have a little more control over her wishes when I'm here at work, so I have to take full advantage of it!
Oh, and one last thing... I got to tell one of the "power's that be" that they screwed something up today! How fun is that? This is one of the same people that kept important information away from me, so it made it all the more fun. Of course, I didn't call him a dumbass, like he (virtually) did when he found out I was working on this project. Instead, I was very nice about it, because I think he's figured out that I'm a little smarter than he originally thought. I love corporate politics!
I really do feel sorry for my coworkers, because I just keep changing things on them. They get used to one thing, and I change it around, or work something else into it. However, if all goes well, this should be the last "major" update to the function. I'm sure there will be some small glitches here and there, but I fully expect that.
I've got one thing left to do this week, and I plan on knocking it out this afternoon. That would leave me with not much to worry about tomorrow. I could start on my next "BIG" project, but what fun would that be? Actually, I probably will start on it, because my bosses are already asking for information on it, and I have none. Zip, zero, nada!
Maybe I'll spend the better part of tomorrow cleaning out my overhead shelving units, because they are a mess. Every time Adrianne comes by to visit she tells me that I need to clean it up, but I never do. I have a little more control over her wishes when I'm here at work, so I have to take full advantage of it!
Oh, and one last thing... I got to tell one of the "power's that be" that they screwed something up today! How fun is that? This is one of the same people that kept important information away from me, so it made it all the more fun. Of course, I didn't call him a dumbass, like he (virtually) did when he found out I was working on this project. Instead, I was very nice about it, because I think he's figured out that I'm a little smarter than he originally thought. I love corporate politics!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
WORK IS FUN!
Well, sometimes anyway! Actually, it's not all that bad when you're doing something that you find interesting and challenging. It's not so much fun when you're sitting at your desk, in a cubicle, doing the same monotonous thing every single day since last September. Yes, it's been nearly a year since I was on the road for work.
Don't misunderstand me though, I am still here in Memphis, not in Atlanta, with the rest of my coworkers. I don't mind too much though, except that it would've been nice to get to see my friend Jason and his wife Aspen again.
Anyway, I've been working since I got here, shortly after 8 am this morning. Okay, shortly is stretching it. I was at least 15 minutes late today. However, I was here until almost 5:45 last night, so that makes up for it. I was the last person to leave the office, so I'll carry those "points" with me.
Lastly, since I'm just rambling today, I had to type into a "test" section on what I was working on, just to see how much it would take to fill up the area, and this is what came out of my head:
Oh yeah, that filled up the "test" section, so it was alright. Even the print preview was perfect. Now, back to the "GRIND"!
Don't misunderstand me though, I am still here in Memphis, not in Atlanta, with the rest of my coworkers. I don't mind too much though, except that it would've been nice to get to see my friend Jason and his wife Aspen again.
Anyway, I've been working since I got here, shortly after 8 am this morning. Okay, shortly is stretching it. I was at least 15 minutes late today. However, I was here until almost 5:45 last night, so that makes up for it. I was the last person to leave the office, so I'll carry those "points" with me.
Lastly, since I'm just rambling today, I had to type into a "test" section on what I was working on, just to see how much it would take to fill up the area, and this is what came out of my head:
In the beginning there were only amoeba and sea creatures. The sea creatures became angry and wanted to see more than just the dark waters below them. So, they took the initiative to wander upon land from time to time. Before long, they began to like the land more than the water. The longer they stayed, the more their bodies started to change. After thousands of years they began sprouting limbs, and, before long, could use these limbs. Next came guns.
Oh yeah, that filled up the "test" section, so it was alright. Even the print preview was perfect. Now, back to the "GRIND"!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
PROBLEM SOLVED...
Okay, I had a 9 am meeting this morning with "The Power's that Be" and have been enlightened. Luckily for me, my BIG boss went with me. He asked the all important question that I wanted to ask. "Was that information is this (pointing to the manual)?"
The answer we received was... Wait for it... "Not explicitly."
Beautiful isn't it? There's nothing like intentionally hiding things to keep the rest of us ignorant, right? Sounds a lot like our government, no? Maybe "they" are aspiring for a career in politics?
Onward... After being "let in" on the secret, it took a matter of 10 minutes for me to fully interpret and install the missing pieces in my project, and guess what? It worked... PERFECTLY!
Imagine that! If you have the information things will work the way they're supposed to. Keep this in mind at all times people! You wouldn't try to start up a car without gasoline in it, right?
Okay, I'm done ranting for today. It's been a good morning. I've been busy getting this "automobile" functional, and I'm going to give it a full "test drive" this afternoon. Yep, I'm finished with car jargon for the day too.
The answer we received was... Wait for it... "Not explicitly."
Beautiful isn't it? There's nothing like intentionally hiding things to keep the rest of us ignorant, right? Sounds a lot like our government, no? Maybe "they" are aspiring for a career in politics?
Onward... After being "let in" on the secret, it took a matter of 10 minutes for me to fully interpret and install the missing pieces in my project, and guess what? It worked... PERFECTLY!
Imagine that! If you have the information things will work the way they're supposed to. Keep this in mind at all times people! You wouldn't try to start up a car without gasoline in it, right?
Okay, I'm done ranting for today. It's been a good morning. I've been busy getting this "automobile" functional, and I'm going to give it a full "test drive" this afternoon. Yep, I'm finished with car jargon for the day too.
Monday, July 17, 2006
ANGER MANAGEMENT...
Very, very few things in my personal life ever piss me off. That is because, I, to some extent can control those things. I don't let arguments between my wife and I bother me too much. Nor do I let the stupid little things that I do bother me. Usually I just laugh them off.
However, my professional life is a complete different story. Nothing pisses me off more than something that is so far out of my control, yet affects me so much. I'm dealing with an issue like this as I type. I've been working on it all morning, and it's just gets worse and worse. The sad thing is that it would be okay if it ended at my boss's boss, but, unfortunately, it goes much further up the food chain.
Now, out of respect for Adrianne (who believes that she only learns things about me via reading this), I'm going to hold off getting into it all. I really do want to talk to her about it, even though I've already talked to my bosses, and they know I'm a little upset. Either way it doesn't matter, because no one that I talk to about it has any control, nor can change anything. This situation sucks with a capital "UCK"!
For once, it's not me being the idiot, but people that are making a lot more money than myself. Now that is scary!
Thanks for letting me get a little of it off my chest. I'll, probably, revisit this tomorrow.
However, my professional life is a complete different story. Nothing pisses me off more than something that is so far out of my control, yet affects me so much. I'm dealing with an issue like this as I type. I've been working on it all morning, and it's just gets worse and worse. The sad thing is that it would be okay if it ended at my boss's boss, but, unfortunately, it goes much further up the food chain.
Now, out of respect for Adrianne (who believes that she only learns things about me via reading this), I'm going to hold off getting into it all. I really do want to talk to her about it, even though I've already talked to my bosses, and they know I'm a little upset. Either way it doesn't matter, because no one that I talk to about it has any control, nor can change anything. This situation sucks with a capital "UCK"!
For once, it's not me being the idiot, but people that are making a lot more money than myself. Now that is scary!
Thanks for letting me get a little of it off my chest. I'll, probably, revisit this tomorrow.
SELF DEPRICATION...
I know I call myself an idiot way too often, but, sometimes, it's just true. I have two proofs to back up my initial though, and they came this weekend.
#1: Exactly like I said in my post on Friday (which I was using to remind myself), I forgot to pack underwear. Needless to say, it was slightly warm in Owensboro this weekend, and there was definitely something needed to "soak up" the sweat from those special places. Luckily for me I have a loving wife that understands my shortcomings and that will go out of her way to go buy me some "backups".
#2: I still have some of the suntan I had when we went to Mexico on our honeymoon. Not all of it, mind you, but still a pretty good tan. Well, having a "pretty good tan" does not keep you from getting a nasty sunburn. I proved this so well on Saturday. However, I did look around the house for some sunblock, because I knew I'd need it on my shoulders and face. I couldn't find it however. I was "Home Alone" for most of Saturday, but without the hands on my cheeks and screaming. Also, there were no thieves trying to jack Adrianne's parent's goodies. I looked in the normal places, and even tried to call Adrianne to find out (which she didn't answer), but had no luck. So, I braved it without sunblock. I tried to do it relatively smart, by staying out in the sun for a little while, then getting out and sitting in the shade for a while, then repeating the process. Yeah, didn't work!
Do you realize how uncomfortable it is to put a long sleeved dress shirt on over badly sunburned shoulders and then walk out into 100 degree heat? No? Well, I'm telling you that it sucks. Maybe I'll stop being a dumbass sometime soon?
On another front... I had a dream last night where I returned to my old job in Owensboro. I had all of my knowledge from my current job, but it didn't help me too much, because I couldn't scale it down for the clientele up there. There were lots of familiar faces in the dream from that job too. They were all the people that I thought would've been at the wedding but didn't show up. Coincidence? I think not. I was discussing this with Justin over the weekend, that I didn't realize the people that weren't there until well after the event, and it was kind of sad (to me).
Oh well! They missed out on some crazy breakdancing!
#1: Exactly like I said in my post on Friday (which I was using to remind myself), I forgot to pack underwear. Needless to say, it was slightly warm in Owensboro this weekend, and there was definitely something needed to "soak up" the sweat from those special places. Luckily for me I have a loving wife that understands my shortcomings and that will go out of her way to go buy me some "backups".
#2: I still have some of the suntan I had when we went to Mexico on our honeymoon. Not all of it, mind you, but still a pretty good tan. Well, having a "pretty good tan" does not keep you from getting a nasty sunburn. I proved this so well on Saturday. However, I did look around the house for some sunblock, because I knew I'd need it on my shoulders and face. I couldn't find it however. I was "Home Alone" for most of Saturday, but without the hands on my cheeks and screaming. Also, there were no thieves trying to jack Adrianne's parent's goodies. I looked in the normal places, and even tried to call Adrianne to find out (which she didn't answer), but had no luck. So, I braved it without sunblock. I tried to do it relatively smart, by staying out in the sun for a little while, then getting out and sitting in the shade for a while, then repeating the process. Yeah, didn't work!
Do you realize how uncomfortable it is to put a long sleeved dress shirt on over badly sunburned shoulders and then walk out into 100 degree heat? No? Well, I'm telling you that it sucks. Maybe I'll stop being a dumbass sometime soon?
On another front... I had a dream last night where I returned to my old job in Owensboro. I had all of my knowledge from my current job, but it didn't help me too much, because I couldn't scale it down for the clientele up there. There were lots of familiar faces in the dream from that job too. They were all the people that I thought would've been at the wedding but didn't show up. Coincidence? I think not. I was discussing this with Justin over the weekend, that I didn't realize the people that weren't there until well after the event, and it was kind of sad (to me).
Oh well! They missed out on some crazy breakdancing!
Friday, July 14, 2006
DRUNKEN... STUPOR...
It has become abundantly obvious that my tolerance for alcohol has severely diminished. I went out with one of my buddies last night and after four beers (Black and Tan's) in four hours, I was wasted. I'm talking about worthlessly wasted too. I made it home in one piece though. Luckily it was only a three block stroll.
When I got home, though, it was light's out! Actually I tried to get some things together for our trip up to Owensboro this weekend, but all I accomplished was spreading clothes all over the bedroom floor. Hopefully Adrianne is able to decipher my outfit choices. I guess I'll find out when I open up our luggage tonight when we reach our destination. I just hope she remembers to throw me some "drawers" (pronounced: "draaaaaaaws") in there, otherwise it might get a little interesting this weekend.
Not too much else going on. Today is my co-worker, and buddy, Kenny's last day with us. He's leaving the bank to go to graduate school up at Cornell, in Ithica, NY. Yes, that's an Ivy League school, and, yes, I'm pretty proud of my boy. I know there's no way I could do it. Not that I'm not smart enough, but I've been working long enough and just couldn't go back to being poor and in college, and that's the way it would have to be (most likely). I'm sure it probably wouldn't hurt my career to get my master's degree or something though.
Maybe I'll think about it? It's not going to be today though. I've got a pretty good sinus headache, from all of the smoke at the bar, and my tummy just isn't taking anything very well this morning.
When I got home, though, it was light's out! Actually I tried to get some things together for our trip up to Owensboro this weekend, but all I accomplished was spreading clothes all over the bedroom floor. Hopefully Adrianne is able to decipher my outfit choices. I guess I'll find out when I open up our luggage tonight when we reach our destination. I just hope she remembers to throw me some "drawers" (pronounced: "draaaaaaaws") in there, otherwise it might get a little interesting this weekend.
Not too much else going on. Today is my co-worker, and buddy, Kenny's last day with us. He's leaving the bank to go to graduate school up at Cornell, in Ithica, NY. Yes, that's an Ivy League school, and, yes, I'm pretty proud of my boy. I know there's no way I could do it. Not that I'm not smart enough, but I've been working long enough and just couldn't go back to being poor and in college, and that's the way it would have to be (most likely). I'm sure it probably wouldn't hurt my career to get my master's degree or something though.
Maybe I'll think about it? It's not going to be today though. I've got a pretty good sinus headache, from all of the smoke at the bar, and my tummy just isn't taking anything very well this morning.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
NADA...
Not really much happening on my front. I'm tired again this morning. However, I had a ton of dreams last night, with at least two of them being funny, since I woke up laughing. However, I wasn't coherent enough at any time to write anything down. That would be because I took a Melatonin vitamin supplement before I headed to bed. After the unrestful night of sleep the prior night, I didn't want to take any chances.
Adrianne's classroom is coming along, I think. She has worked hard on it since Monday, but wasn't able to take any pictures to show me. Unfortunately, they lock the joint down at 3:30 during the week, and don't open on the weekends, so I won't be able to help her out much at the school. I really need to help her out at home, with the stuff she brings home to work on, but I'm kind of burned out when I get home and have no desire to do anything. It was a struggle enough last night just to make us some dinner. However, I took care of it and we both received our necessary nourishment.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I actually woke up with a song in my head. I haven't been listening to much music lately, mostly because I've been doing some training at work and I can't really "rock out" while I'm trying to show someone how to do something. Anyway, I woke up with "All the Small Things" by Blink-182 in my head. Not sure why though. I kept singing "She left me roses by the stairs... Surprises let me know she cares."
Now, I'm sitting here wondering what silly things will pop into my head today. I talked to my boy PT last night, and it was the first chance we've had to discuss the World Cup Final. Zidane finally had a press conference yesterday and the Italian player supposedly called him "The son of a Terrorist Whore". Yeah, that would probably piss me off a little bit too. I doubt I would've headbutted him though. I think a piledriver would be more suitable. What an asshole!
Adrianne's classroom is coming along, I think. She has worked hard on it since Monday, but wasn't able to take any pictures to show me. Unfortunately, they lock the joint down at 3:30 during the week, and don't open on the weekends, so I won't be able to help her out much at the school. I really need to help her out at home, with the stuff she brings home to work on, but I'm kind of burned out when I get home and have no desire to do anything. It was a struggle enough last night just to make us some dinner. However, I took care of it and we both received our necessary nourishment.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I actually woke up with a song in my head. I haven't been listening to much music lately, mostly because I've been doing some training at work and I can't really "rock out" while I'm trying to show someone how to do something. Anyway, I woke up with "All the Small Things" by Blink-182 in my head. Not sure why though. I kept singing "She left me roses by the stairs... Surprises let me know she cares."
Now, I'm sitting here wondering what silly things will pop into my head today. I talked to my boy PT last night, and it was the first chance we've had to discuss the World Cup Final. Zidane finally had a press conference yesterday and the Italian player supposedly called him "The son of a Terrorist Whore". Yeah, that would probably piss me off a little bit too. I doubt I would've headbutted him though. I think a piledriver would be more suitable. What an asshole!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
WHY, WHY, WHY???
I'm not really sure why some things pop into my head, but they do. Just a few minutes ago was another prime example. I had the most inane, and, quite frankly, disgusting thought to date.
"What happens if an astronaut, in space, has to drop a deuce (take the kids to the pool, talk to a guy about a snake, poop, etc)?"
Really, I don't know why I would want to know this, but I was thinking that it could really get messy, with the whole "lack of gravity" thing. Am I wrong?
Man, I really need to concentrate on my work!
By the way, for some reason I've been arguing over on Hilltopper Haven a lot recently. I'm not sure why, but I apologize to anyone that's been caught in the wake of wake of my wrath! On the flip side, I haven't been arguing with my wife very much lately, so it's an equal trade off that I'm sure she's happy about!
"What happens if an astronaut, in space, has to drop a deuce (take the kids to the pool, talk to a guy about a snake, poop, etc)?"
Really, I don't know why I would want to know this, but I was thinking that it could really get messy, with the whole "lack of gravity" thing. Am I wrong?
Man, I really need to concentrate on my work!
By the way, for some reason I've been arguing over on Hilltopper Haven a lot recently. I'm not sure why, but I apologize to anyone that's been caught in the wake of wake of my wrath! On the flip side, I haven't been arguing with my wife very much lately, so it's an equal trade off that I'm sure she's happy about!
VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED...
Okay, so I've heard that you're supposed to learn something new everyday, right? Well, I got my lesson late last night, or early this morning. It just depends on how you look at it. The lesson is this...
If you go to bed at 8:30, but don't immediately make yourself go to sleep, then you deserve to get a shitty night's sleep.
Adrianne and I went out to eat at Texas de Brazil for the first time ever last night. We went really, really early, only because that's when our 50% coupon would work, so, therefore, we were back home, stuffed, very early. I think we were home before 6:30.
Eating at TdB is kind of like Thanksgiving. You know you've eaten too much and you're going to be tired afterward, but for some strange reason you keep eating. I couldn't imagine trying to drive home after eating there! I'm sure I would've fallen asleep at the wheel. Luckily I don't fall asleep too often while walking. However, it was a miserable walk back home!
We got home and Adrianne wanted to work on something for her classroom, so I played some Xbox. By the time 7:30 rolled around both of us were struggling to keep our eyes open. I stayed on the couch as long as possible, but couldn't fight it any more by 8:30. So, I grabbed a movie and we headed to bed. I popped "The Bourne Identity" into the DVD player and fired it up. Adrianne lost consciousness about half-way through, and I battled on. I made it nearly to the end when I told myself "Enough is enough!"
It was just before 10 pm when I rolled over, and from then until 5:30 this morning it was a nonstop exercise in sleep futility. I couldn't get comfortable. If I got comfortable then I couldn't breathe. Once I got comfortable and could breathe, then I had to pee. So, you see how this is going, right?
By the time the alarm went off this morning I was completely exhausted. All around my mouth was covered with a nasty white film, which means when I did sleep, I was breathing through my mouth, which is not a good thing! I finally rolled out of bed at 7:44, and ended up at least 15 minutes late to work.
Man, I hope the day gets better than it started!
If you go to bed at 8:30, but don't immediately make yourself go to sleep, then you deserve to get a shitty night's sleep.
Adrianne and I went out to eat at Texas de Brazil for the first time ever last night. We went really, really early, only because that's when our 50% coupon would work, so, therefore, we were back home, stuffed, very early. I think we were home before 6:30.
Eating at TdB is kind of like Thanksgiving. You know you've eaten too much and you're going to be tired afterward, but for some strange reason you keep eating. I couldn't imagine trying to drive home after eating there! I'm sure I would've fallen asleep at the wheel. Luckily I don't fall asleep too often while walking. However, it was a miserable walk back home!
We got home and Adrianne wanted to work on something for her classroom, so I played some Xbox. By the time 7:30 rolled around both of us were struggling to keep our eyes open. I stayed on the couch as long as possible, but couldn't fight it any more by 8:30. So, I grabbed a movie and we headed to bed. I popped "The Bourne Identity" into the DVD player and fired it up. Adrianne lost consciousness about half-way through, and I battled on. I made it nearly to the end when I told myself "Enough is enough!"
It was just before 10 pm when I rolled over, and from then until 5:30 this morning it was a nonstop exercise in sleep futility. I couldn't get comfortable. If I got comfortable then I couldn't breathe. Once I got comfortable and could breathe, then I had to pee. So, you see how this is going, right?
By the time the alarm went off this morning I was completely exhausted. All around my mouth was covered with a nasty white film, which means when I did sleep, I was breathing through my mouth, which is not a good thing! I finally rolled out of bed at 7:44, and ended up at least 15 minutes late to work.
Man, I hope the day gets better than it started!
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
PART DEUX...
Yaay for me! I passed! First time at that. I was sitting here this morning, shortly after posting and thought to myself "Self, why don't you go ahead and go now. There probably won't be anyone there right now."
How right I was. However, before I hopped in my car and traveled the six or eight blocks away I check their webcams to see how the traffic was. Amazingly enough, all three of the places were completely empty. The Washington Ave location is the closest to me, so I went there.
In order to get there, though, I had to travel by 201 Poplar. This place is known as "The Jail" down here, and there are always some interesting folks hanging out around this place. Today was no different, especially at 9:30 in the morning.
It's so nice to get out every now and then!
Now I just have to mail in my registration and I'm done with it all! Now I just have to decide if I want to sell my car! Ugh!
How right I was. However, before I hopped in my car and traveled the six or eight blocks away I check their webcams to see how the traffic was. Amazingly enough, all three of the places were completely empty. The Washington Ave location is the closest to me, so I went there.
In order to get there, though, I had to travel by 201 Poplar. This place is known as "The Jail" down here, and there are always some interesting folks hanging out around this place. Today was no different, especially at 9:30 in the morning.
It's so nice to get out every now and then!
Now I just have to mail in my registration and I'm done with it all! Now I just have to decide if I want to sell my car! Ugh!
LIVING IN THE CITY LIMITS...
Today I get to do one of the most time consuming things on the planet. I get to sit in line at the DWV and wait for my turn to get my 1998 Honda Civic tested for emission standards. Yes, it's a whole bunch of fun! You line up behind 30 other cars and sit in the heat and humidity with your windows down or A/C on for as long as it takes. This is one of the highlights of living within the city. We have to make sure that we're not polluting our air with our cars. I'm all for that, if I actually drove my car, ever.
However, what about all of the people that live out east, in the county, that drive down here every day? They don't have to be tested for emissions, and they're the one's the do most of the driving, right? I'm still working on figuring this one out. I would think that if you worked within the city limits you'd have to have your automobile tested for emission standards. That's just me though!
Last year I had the goofiest thing in the world happen while I was going through this exact process. I failed. Now, it wasn't miserably, but my car failed nonetheless. However, it wasn't that my car failed that was so silly to me. It was the fact that the two cars on each side of me passed (as far as I know anyway) that was ridiculous. To my right there was a late 80's Cadillac with a trunk that wouldn't close and a battered in passenger side. To my left was a 1982 Chevy Cavalier that didn't have a bumper nor any rear taillights. Yet my 1998 Honda Civic, in pristine shape didn't pass? Yes, I'm as confused as you.
So, I read over the paper they gave me that listed possible reasons for my failure. First and second on the list were "in need of an oil change" and "change out air filter". Well, I knew I was a little overdue for an oil change, but since I hadn't driven my car more than 700 miles since my last oil change I didn't think it would be that big of a deal. As for the air filter, I didn't remember the last time I had changed it out. So, I paid to get my oil change, which, if I had a place to do it, I would just do it myself and save the coin. I also went and paid $8 for a new air filter and replaced that. I returned to the emissions testing center and, surprisingly, passed with flying colors.
This year I went ahead and had the oil changed this last weekend and replaced the air filter. I'm not a big fan of doing something twice if I don't have to! Wish me luck!
At least I can just mail in my registration stuff, instead of walking down the street and waiting in line for them to take care of something that takes a total of 30 seconds to complete. I wish I would've started this blog when I first moved here, just so I could've told the stories of my getting my driver's license and my car registered. That was a ton of fun. Oh, and I almost forgot about registering to vote. I'm still not sure my vote was counted? Maybe Memphis is the reason we got another four years of "you know who"?
However, what about all of the people that live out east, in the county, that drive down here every day? They don't have to be tested for emissions, and they're the one's the do most of the driving, right? I'm still working on figuring this one out. I would think that if you worked within the city limits you'd have to have your automobile tested for emission standards. That's just me though!
Last year I had the goofiest thing in the world happen while I was going through this exact process. I failed. Now, it wasn't miserably, but my car failed nonetheless. However, it wasn't that my car failed that was so silly to me. It was the fact that the two cars on each side of me passed (as far as I know anyway) that was ridiculous. To my right there was a late 80's Cadillac with a trunk that wouldn't close and a battered in passenger side. To my left was a 1982 Chevy Cavalier that didn't have a bumper nor any rear taillights. Yet my 1998 Honda Civic, in pristine shape didn't pass? Yes, I'm as confused as you.
So, I read over the paper they gave me that listed possible reasons for my failure. First and second on the list were "in need of an oil change" and "change out air filter". Well, I knew I was a little overdue for an oil change, but since I hadn't driven my car more than 700 miles since my last oil change I didn't think it would be that big of a deal. As for the air filter, I didn't remember the last time I had changed it out. So, I paid to get my oil change, which, if I had a place to do it, I would just do it myself and save the coin. I also went and paid $8 for a new air filter and replaced that. I returned to the emissions testing center and, surprisingly, passed with flying colors.
This year I went ahead and had the oil changed this last weekend and replaced the air filter. I'm not a big fan of doing something twice if I don't have to! Wish me luck!
At least I can just mail in my registration stuff, instead of walking down the street and waiting in line for them to take care of something that takes a total of 30 seconds to complete. I wish I would've started this blog when I first moved here, just so I could've told the stories of my getting my driver's license and my car registered. That was a ton of fun. Oh, and I almost forgot about registering to vote. I'm still not sure my vote was counted? Maybe Memphis is the reason we got another four years of "you know who"?
Monday, July 10, 2006
SHORT AND SWEET?
I was recently told that my posts were way too long, so I'm going to try to turn over a new leaf and try to make them less of a marathon and closer to a mini-marathon. You have to understand that I'm a storyteller, and a long-winded one at that.
Luckily for anyone that may be reading this, I don't have a lot to talk about today. We didn't do much of anything this weekend. We're going to be on the road during every weekend, for the rest of the month, so we thought we'd just lay low.
About the only exciting thing we did was go see "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest". It was, as expected, excellent. When has Johnny Depp made a shitty movie? Well, take out "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and we'll be on the same page. I'm a little disappointed with the ending of this episode of "Pirates", but I understand what is going on. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long for the next episode though.
I will say this about our viewing of the movie, then I'll close for the day (in order to slim this post down a little bit)... Why do parents take small children to see movies like this?
I couldn't imagine, as a 6 or 7 year old, seeing this movie. I'd have nightmares for months. The movie is dark and scary, just like the first one, if not worse. Not to mention, one of the previews prior to the movie was for "The Descent", which is rated R and extremely scary looking. They actually showed lots of blood and the creature-people going after the main actors.
As for kids seeing "Pirates"... I guess that's up to the discretion of the adults. They make good, solid decisions all the time, right? Well, I know I don't, thus I don't have any children yet.
Lastly, we watched the final match of the World Cup yesterday and it was pretty good. Those crazy Italians pulled it off. I'm still scratching my head over what Zidane did late in the overtime. I'm going to go now and do some reading. Maybe he actually did an interview and said what really happened. I'm still perplexed over it!
Luckily for anyone that may be reading this, I don't have a lot to talk about today. We didn't do much of anything this weekend. We're going to be on the road during every weekend, for the rest of the month, so we thought we'd just lay low.
About the only exciting thing we did was go see "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest". It was, as expected, excellent. When has Johnny Depp made a shitty movie? Well, take out "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and we'll be on the same page. I'm a little disappointed with the ending of this episode of "Pirates", but I understand what is going on. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long for the next episode though.
I will say this about our viewing of the movie, then I'll close for the day (in order to slim this post down a little bit)... Why do parents take small children to see movies like this?
I couldn't imagine, as a 6 or 7 year old, seeing this movie. I'd have nightmares for months. The movie is dark and scary, just like the first one, if not worse. Not to mention, one of the previews prior to the movie was for "The Descent", which is rated R and extremely scary looking. They actually showed lots of blood and the creature-people going after the main actors.
As for kids seeing "Pirates"... I guess that's up to the discretion of the adults. They make good, solid decisions all the time, right? Well, I know I don't, thus I don't have any children yet.
Lastly, we watched the final match of the World Cup yesterday and it was pretty good. Those crazy Italians pulled it off. I'm still scratching my head over what Zidane did late in the overtime. I'm going to go now and do some reading. Maybe he actually did an interview and said what really happened. I'm still perplexed over it!
Friday, July 07, 2006
IT TAKES A LOT OF TIME AND ENERGY TO BE THIS LAZY...
Okay, so I haven't actually been lazy, but I've been busy as hell here at work. Yes, believe it or not, but I've been really, really busy. I guess that's what I get for all of those days of blogging here at work. If I had spent those hours actually working, then I probably wouldn't have been down to the wire on finishing up this project. However, I made my co-worker happy and knocked all of my reviews out. Now he can start the really run stuff. For me, though, I get to start a new project on Monday. It's my turn, again, to be in charge, and I tend to get the biggest and baddest projects to do. I guess it's a sign that my boss has a little bit of faith in me. That, or he just wants to keep me super-busy for three months. I don't know which it is?
Anyway, I've been trying to decide how I can fit a whole week's worth of posts into just one. I've got a ton of stuff to discuss, including a couple of dreams I had last weekend. I also had a big event, and there have been a couple of worrisome moments too. I'll see if I can breeze through all of it without thoroughly putting you to sleep. However, I don't really know where to start.
I've already noted that I've been working hard lately, but I've been playing almost as hard. At least last weekend I did anyway. We had one of our good friends come down to visit on Friday. Her boyfriend, one of my best friends, couldn't make it down until Monday, due to work. So, we only had one person to entertain for most of the weekend. Really, about the only thing I did was drink beer, so it was pretty easy. Adrianne and Emili went wandering around Memphis on Saturday. Actually they called it "shopping", but when you don't really buy anything, how can you say you "shopped". I think "browse" or "waste time" would describe it more adequately. Personally, I hate to be out all day "shopping". Don't get me wrong... I love to buy things! I just hate being out all day and not buying a single thing. It drives me nuts. It's one thing if I just can't find something that I want, but it's a whole other story when I'm told I can't have something. Yes, I'm a spoiled brat! However, I'm the one who spoiled myself!
Okay, so while they were gone I sat around and played some Xbox. I couldn't let my season of MVP 06 College Baseball get too far behind!! That night I cooked up some marvelous shit to make your mouth water, like I usually do. We had some cocktails and played a game of "Imaginiff". Well, we didn't finish it.
On Sunday Adrianne and Emili went to see "The Devil Wears Prada". Sadly I missed out on this event and, instead, stayed home and watched the World Cup and played more Xbox. Yes, I know it's a hard life, but someone has to live it. I can't quite remember what we did the rest of the night, because I got pretty smashed, but Adrianne and Emili ended up watching "Failure to Launch" and I went to bed. Okay, "went to bed" doesn't do it justice. I passed out! Yes, got smashed and passed out. It happens!
Monday was actually planned. Paul didn't get here until nearly 5 pm, due to him working that morning, so the rest of us just kind of kicked it. Actually, Adrianne and Emili went off to do sneaky things while I stayed home to... Well, take a wild guess! I took the day off on Monday so I could hang out at home with my wife.
Once Paul arrived we headed down to TJ Mulligan's for cheap hamburger night. Truthfully, you can't get a better burger on this earth for $3.95. REALLY!! After burgers we rode the trolley around the riverfront and back to the apartment. We had a little bit of time before we had to be up on the rooftop for fireworks.
Down at Tom Lee Park, the city of Memphis was putting on a big fireworks display, which was free. It was even nicer, though, that we could just hang out on the rooftop and check them out, and not have to deal with all of the "peasants" at the park. However, we ended up getting some of them on our rooftop too, but I'm getting ahead of myself!
During our downtime between burgers and fireworks I decided to try to install our water filtration system under our sink. Everything was going strikingly well until I turned the water back on. After an hour plus, and a few barrages of expletives that would make Sam Kinison blush, I finally said "Fuck it! I'll mess with it tomorrow!" and put it all back together. I was at least nice enough to reattach the original hosing, so we could use the cold water. Truth be known, I can only handle something that I've put together correctly not working once before I get a little pissed. I'm good with my hands and can fix damn near anything, well, short of pulling the engine out of a 84 Monte Carlo disassembling it and then reassembling it while blindfoled with both arms behind my back and anchored in cement boots just after being thrown off the I40 bridge into the Mississippi River. I put this simple contraption together in quick order, hooked everything up, and then the hose kept popping off when I turned the water on. We'll get to the solution later, maybe.
So, I towel off and Paul and I head upstairs to meet up with Adrianne, Emili, and Mary Jo. The rooftop already has a pretty good sized group of spectators, and it's damn near two hours before the show starts. I really think the city could've started it all a little earlier than 9:45, but who am I to tell a city how to run things. Maybe I should? It was dark right around 8:30 and they could've easily started before 9. Anyway...
By the time it had grown dark, the five of us had huddled over to the best viewing side and staked our claim to our "spot". If one person, usually me running to get another beer, moved, then the other four would spread out in order to keep the same amount of space. We've all done this before, so I'm not sure why I'm describing it!
The fireworks were awesome! I think I've stated before that I'm just a big kid when it comes to certain things. Superman movies are one thing, but fireworks put me in a whole different world. Could it possibly be because my Mom went into labor with me while watching fireworks? Maybe?
I took some pictures of the fireworks with my phone, but haven't transferred them to my computer. I even tried to find some on the newspaper's site here, just to post a couple, but came up empty. If I ever get around to it, I'll post them. I promise!
After the fireworks, we helped clean up the rooftop for a little while. See, this is where things really piss me off. There were a bunch of people up there that don't live in my building. They were friends of people that live there, or friends of friends, etc. Those people don't give a rat's ass about it being nice up there. Well, Adrianne and I live there, and venture up to the rooftop relatively often to enjoy the view, the people, and the grills. We like it up there. Several people have worked very hard for us to have a nice looking rooftop with flowers, shrubbery, and furniture.
So, all of these non-residents just throw their trash wherever they please, including cigarette butts into our shrubbery and flowers. I was really ready to go crack one ass-hat's head open for doing it, especially since he was leaning on the cigarette disposal contraption. I'm thinking about talking to our office manager about residents being responsible for their guests, though I don't know what good it would do without me actually saying something to a person I see doing something. I know the people that visit us try to take the pride in our home that we do. These other people probably wouldn't really like it if I came to their house and tossed my empty beer bottles and cigarette butts (if I smoke, which I don't) on their patio and into their bushes and flowers, would they? Dammit! This shit just pisses me off!
So, onto the next day. Monday was, of course, July 4th. Paul and I watched the World Cup game together. It was the first game of the event that we've actually seen together, and it was pretty good. Italy scored two goals late to take the game, but they pretty much had it won the whole time. It was the first game that was officiated pretty well. Most of the games have made the officials look horrible, and Paul, being an official himself, has been as critical of the officiating as anyone, including myself, which is difficult.
Oh, I also got around to fixing the water filtration system. I just pulled the hoses off, flipped ends, and reattached them. I hooked it up, and it's been working fine since. I guess the one end of the hose just didn't like being connected to the water "point of contact". Damned separatist water hose!
Paul and Emili had to leave shortly after the game because Paul had to work at the butt-crack of dawn on Wednesday. Adrianne and I got tickets to the Redbirds game that night though, just to see some more fireworks. Man, it was hot!! Usually when the sun goes down it cools off quite a bit, but not this night. It actually felt hotter when the sun went down. It could've been because there were 18,000 other people in a small area with us, but who knows? The Redbirds broke the attendance record that night too, so it was cool to be a part of that! I've been to several games over the last two seasons, and I've never seen it one fifth as full as it was that night. Even the "bluff" (a grassy hillside for SRO ticket holders) was packed to the gills. You couldn't see a single patch of green up there.
The Redbirds ended up losing 4-1, but that's kind of been the story this season. We just can't get a hit when it counts. Every hit we got that night seemed to come with two outs and nobody on.
Right after the game they had a special ceremony that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was an event that I've never been privy to, and probably never will be again. What they did was brought down 100 people, from 42 different nations, who had passed all of the regulations to become naturalized citizens of the United States of America, to the field. From there, everyone in attendance got to view them taking their "Oath of Allegiance" after they announced every one of the countries they hailed from. It was a beautiful thing to see, and they all received a standing ovation.
It was one of those times when I was very, very proud to be an American. Those times have been kind of far and few between under our current administration, but I felt it that night. Just seeing these fellow citizens out there, becoming something that I, and many others, take for granted every day, waving their little American flags just did my heart something good.
I didn't even enjoy the fireworks as much as I enjoyed that event. Don't get me wrong... The fireworks were splendid, but this event was "moving". I am proud of each and every one of those people, and I hope that all of the other people that are in this country, whether legally or illegally, that want to become a naturalized American, can someday enjoy the exact same thing these folks were.
I also want all of us Americans that never had to go through that process to know what these people had to learn just to pass the proper tests. I promise you, 99% of the people who were born in America, went to school here, and beat their chests about being a "real American" couldn't come close to passing these tests. I doubt I could, and I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about our history as a country.
Wednesday I had to go back to work! Yippee!! It was rainy and dreary outside, which made me want to stay inside, especially snuggled up in bed with my Boo. It didn't hurt that it was my birthday too. Really, who wants to work on their birthday? I, for one, chose not to, but I chose not to work the day before July 4th, so I had to be here on my birthday. If I wasn't, then I don't believe I would've been able to complete what I needed to do.
The day began very well. Adrianne got up with me and made me a smoothie with our Magic Bullet. No, not the "Silver Bullet"! Get your heads out of the gutter! It was really, really good. It also takes a very healthy place in my diet away from something like a Pop-Tart or donuts, so it's all good.
Adrianne had already let the proverbial "cat out of the bag" about what our plans were for dinner. We were going to go to India Palace, which I had been craving for a long, long time. My buddy, Harsh, was going to join us too, so it got even better! So, I head to work thinking only about getting off of work and going to eat dinner.
I'll say this right now... My phone has not rang as many times all year as it did on my birthday. I guess it just shows that I do have a lot of people that love me, or were, at least, thinking about me that day. Believe me, it was well appreciated! I also got some funny text messages and emails throughout the day, so it was even better.
Adrianne had already made me some cupcakes on the 4th. I chose cupcakes over a cake, because cupcakes are a lot easier to share than cake, and I certainly did not need to eat a whole cake or 20 something cupcakes. Remember, I'm still trying to eat semi-healthy and not put the 20 pounds back on!
So, she delivered a platter of cupcakes to the office right around 10 am for me to share with everyone. Thank goodness we were sharing, because I ate at least four of them myself, over two days mind you! Work was uneventful. I got some stuff going and got put in a holding pattern on most of it.
Adrianne and I ate lunch at home, even though a friend of ours gave us some money to go eat a Texas de Brazil for lunch. We decided not to venture to TdB because it a high, high-end buffet, and I really wanted to enjoy my Indian cuisine that night. I knew I wouldn't if I gorged myself on TdB at lunch. So, we saved that for some time next week. While at home for lunch Adrianne gave me my birthday presents. She got me some easy to prepare Indian sauces, so I could try to make us some Indian food sometime soon. They look extremely yummy and just further heightened my desire for India Palace. Adrianne's Dad got me a cool looking Memphis Redbird's t-shirt too. They tricked me while he was here and actually showed it to me, but told me that it was for him. Those silly kids!!
Promptly at 5 pm I jetted outta work to get home. I wasn't sure exactly what time we were going to eat, and I didn't want to get left behind!! <--- This section intentionally left blank ---> We left for the restaurant right around 6:20, when Harsh came to pick us up. To say that the food was delicious would not be fitting of the meal we had. Man, it was heaven on a bed of rice!! I had the Chicken Vindaloo and Adrianne had the Chicken Korma. I can't pronounce, nor spell what Harsh had. We also got an order of my favorite Naan, Peshawari. Naan is a bread that tastes a lot like pizza crust. The Peshawari has a sweeter flavor and is stuffed with dried nuts and raisins. Frankly, I'd rather eat it for breakfast than anything, but that's another story.
We finished up eating, were completely stuffed, and headed home. Adrianne and I finished off the day by watching "Eurotrip". After that, it was bed time. I was cashed out. My belly was still full and telling me it was time to a long summer's nap!
Okay, that's pretty much it. Well, except that my Mom had a minor surgery yesterday, which always weighs on my mind. I made sure to call her on Wednesday night to tell her I love her, just in case anything were to happen. Sis called me yesterday when she was there to pick her up and everything went okay. However, while waiting there, my Grandpa called and my Grandma was in the hospital with some blood pooled around the base of her skull/top of her spine. She had fallen a couple of weeks ago, and they didn't know if it was caused from the fall, or if it had caused the fall. Thus far I know nothing. Here's hoping they find something out soon!
I worked hard enough to finish up everything this morning, and I've been working on and off typing this thing out, since about 10 am. However, I'm not quite done. Like I said in the beginning, I had a couple of crazy dreams over the weekend. I'm not necessarily going to try to break them down, but I'll go over the notes I wrote down after they happened...
Dream #1
Oh yeah... Sorry to keep you waiting!
Anyway, I've been trying to decide how I can fit a whole week's worth of posts into just one. I've got a ton of stuff to discuss, including a couple of dreams I had last weekend. I also had a big event, and there have been a couple of worrisome moments too. I'll see if I can breeze through all of it without thoroughly putting you to sleep. However, I don't really know where to start.
I've already noted that I've been working hard lately, but I've been playing almost as hard. At least last weekend I did anyway. We had one of our good friends come down to visit on Friday. Her boyfriend, one of my best friends, couldn't make it down until Monday, due to work. So, we only had one person to entertain for most of the weekend. Really, about the only thing I did was drink beer, so it was pretty easy. Adrianne and Emili went wandering around Memphis on Saturday. Actually they called it "shopping", but when you don't really buy anything, how can you say you "shopped". I think "browse" or "waste time" would describe it more adequately. Personally, I hate to be out all day "shopping". Don't get me wrong... I love to buy things! I just hate being out all day and not buying a single thing. It drives me nuts. It's one thing if I just can't find something that I want, but it's a whole other story when I'm told I can't have something. Yes, I'm a spoiled brat! However, I'm the one who spoiled myself!
Okay, so while they were gone I sat around and played some Xbox. I couldn't let my season of MVP 06 College Baseball get too far behind!! That night I cooked up some marvelous shit to make your mouth water, like I usually do. We had some cocktails and played a game of "Imaginiff". Well, we didn't finish it.
On Sunday Adrianne and Emili went to see "The Devil Wears Prada". Sadly I missed out on this event and, instead, stayed home and watched the World Cup and played more Xbox. Yes, I know it's a hard life, but someone has to live it. I can't quite remember what we did the rest of the night, because I got pretty smashed, but Adrianne and Emili ended up watching "Failure to Launch" and I went to bed. Okay, "went to bed" doesn't do it justice. I passed out! Yes, got smashed and passed out. It happens!
Monday was actually planned. Paul didn't get here until nearly 5 pm, due to him working that morning, so the rest of us just kind of kicked it. Actually, Adrianne and Emili went off to do sneaky things while I stayed home to... Well, take a wild guess! I took the day off on Monday so I could hang out at home with my wife.
Once Paul arrived we headed down to TJ Mulligan's for cheap hamburger night. Truthfully, you can't get a better burger on this earth for $3.95. REALLY!! After burgers we rode the trolley around the riverfront and back to the apartment. We had a little bit of time before we had to be up on the rooftop for fireworks.
Down at Tom Lee Park, the city of Memphis was putting on a big fireworks display, which was free. It was even nicer, though, that we could just hang out on the rooftop and check them out, and not have to deal with all of the "peasants" at the park. However, we ended up getting some of them on our rooftop too, but I'm getting ahead of myself!
During our downtime between burgers and fireworks I decided to try to install our water filtration system under our sink. Everything was going strikingly well until I turned the water back on. After an hour plus, and a few barrages of expletives that would make Sam Kinison blush, I finally said "Fuck it! I'll mess with it tomorrow!" and put it all back together. I was at least nice enough to reattach the original hosing, so we could use the cold water. Truth be known, I can only handle something that I've put together correctly not working once before I get a little pissed. I'm good with my hands and can fix damn near anything, well, short of pulling the engine out of a 84 Monte Carlo disassembling it and then reassembling it while blindfoled with both arms behind my back and anchored in cement boots just after being thrown off the I40 bridge into the Mississippi River. I put this simple contraption together in quick order, hooked everything up, and then the hose kept popping off when I turned the water on. We'll get to the solution later, maybe.
So, I towel off and Paul and I head upstairs to meet up with Adrianne, Emili, and Mary Jo. The rooftop already has a pretty good sized group of spectators, and it's damn near two hours before the show starts. I really think the city could've started it all a little earlier than 9:45, but who am I to tell a city how to run things. Maybe I should? It was dark right around 8:30 and they could've easily started before 9. Anyway...
By the time it had grown dark, the five of us had huddled over to the best viewing side and staked our claim to our "spot". If one person, usually me running to get another beer, moved, then the other four would spread out in order to keep the same amount of space. We've all done this before, so I'm not sure why I'm describing it!
The fireworks were awesome! I think I've stated before that I'm just a big kid when it comes to certain things. Superman movies are one thing, but fireworks put me in a whole different world. Could it possibly be because my Mom went into labor with me while watching fireworks? Maybe?
I took some pictures of the fireworks with my phone, but haven't transferred them to my computer. I even tried to find some on the newspaper's site here, just to post a couple, but came up empty. If I ever get around to it, I'll post them. I promise!
After the fireworks, we helped clean up the rooftop for a little while. See, this is where things really piss me off. There were a bunch of people up there that don't live in my building. They were friends of people that live there, or friends of friends, etc. Those people don't give a rat's ass about it being nice up there. Well, Adrianne and I live there, and venture up to the rooftop relatively often to enjoy the view, the people, and the grills. We like it up there. Several people have worked very hard for us to have a nice looking rooftop with flowers, shrubbery, and furniture.
So, all of these non-residents just throw their trash wherever they please, including cigarette butts into our shrubbery and flowers. I was really ready to go crack one ass-hat's head open for doing it, especially since he was leaning on the cigarette disposal contraption. I'm thinking about talking to our office manager about residents being responsible for their guests, though I don't know what good it would do without me actually saying something to a person I see doing something. I know the people that visit us try to take the pride in our home that we do. These other people probably wouldn't really like it if I came to their house and tossed my empty beer bottles and cigarette butts (if I smoke, which I don't) on their patio and into their bushes and flowers, would they? Dammit! This shit just pisses me off!
So, onto the next day. Monday was, of course, July 4th. Paul and I watched the World Cup game together. It was the first game of the event that we've actually seen together, and it was pretty good. Italy scored two goals late to take the game, but they pretty much had it won the whole time. It was the first game that was officiated pretty well. Most of the games have made the officials look horrible, and Paul, being an official himself, has been as critical of the officiating as anyone, including myself, which is difficult.
Oh, I also got around to fixing the water filtration system. I just pulled the hoses off, flipped ends, and reattached them. I hooked it up, and it's been working fine since. I guess the one end of the hose just didn't like being connected to the water "point of contact". Damned separatist water hose!
Paul and Emili had to leave shortly after the game because Paul had to work at the butt-crack of dawn on Wednesday. Adrianne and I got tickets to the Redbirds game that night though, just to see some more fireworks. Man, it was hot!! Usually when the sun goes down it cools off quite a bit, but not this night. It actually felt hotter when the sun went down. It could've been because there were 18,000 other people in a small area with us, but who knows? The Redbirds broke the attendance record that night too, so it was cool to be a part of that! I've been to several games over the last two seasons, and I've never seen it one fifth as full as it was that night. Even the "bluff" (a grassy hillside for SRO ticket holders) was packed to the gills. You couldn't see a single patch of green up there.
The Redbirds ended up losing 4-1, but that's kind of been the story this season. We just can't get a hit when it counts. Every hit we got that night seemed to come with two outs and nobody on.
Right after the game they had a special ceremony that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was an event that I've never been privy to, and probably never will be again. What they did was brought down 100 people, from 42 different nations, who had passed all of the regulations to become naturalized citizens of the United States of America, to the field. From there, everyone in attendance got to view them taking their "Oath of Allegiance" after they announced every one of the countries they hailed from. It was a beautiful thing to see, and they all received a standing ovation.
It was one of those times when I was very, very proud to be an American. Those times have been kind of far and few between under our current administration, but I felt it that night. Just seeing these fellow citizens out there, becoming something that I, and many others, take for granted every day, waving their little American flags just did my heart something good.
I didn't even enjoy the fireworks as much as I enjoyed that event. Don't get me wrong... The fireworks were splendid, but this event was "moving". I am proud of each and every one of those people, and I hope that all of the other people that are in this country, whether legally or illegally, that want to become a naturalized American, can someday enjoy the exact same thing these folks were.
I also want all of us Americans that never had to go through that process to know what these people had to learn just to pass the proper tests. I promise you, 99% of the people who were born in America, went to school here, and beat their chests about being a "real American" couldn't come close to passing these tests. I doubt I could, and I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about our history as a country.
Wednesday I had to go back to work! Yippee!! It was rainy and dreary outside, which made me want to stay inside, especially snuggled up in bed with my Boo. It didn't hurt that it was my birthday too. Really, who wants to work on their birthday? I, for one, chose not to, but I chose not to work the day before July 4th, so I had to be here on my birthday. If I wasn't, then I don't believe I would've been able to complete what I needed to do.
The day began very well. Adrianne got up with me and made me a smoothie with our Magic Bullet. No, not the "Silver Bullet"! Get your heads out of the gutter! It was really, really good. It also takes a very healthy place in my diet away from something like a Pop-Tart or donuts, so it's all good.
Adrianne had already let the proverbial "cat out of the bag" about what our plans were for dinner. We were going to go to India Palace, which I had been craving for a long, long time. My buddy, Harsh, was going to join us too, so it got even better! So, I head to work thinking only about getting off of work and going to eat dinner.
I'll say this right now... My phone has not rang as many times all year as it did on my birthday. I guess it just shows that I do have a lot of people that love me, or were, at least, thinking about me that day. Believe me, it was well appreciated! I also got some funny text messages and emails throughout the day, so it was even better.
Adrianne had already made me some cupcakes on the 4th. I chose cupcakes over a cake, because cupcakes are a lot easier to share than cake, and I certainly did not need to eat a whole cake or 20 something cupcakes. Remember, I'm still trying to eat semi-healthy and not put the 20 pounds back on!
So, she delivered a platter of cupcakes to the office right around 10 am for me to share with everyone. Thank goodness we were sharing, because I ate at least four of them myself, over two days mind you! Work was uneventful. I got some stuff going and got put in a holding pattern on most of it.
Adrianne and I ate lunch at home, even though a friend of ours gave us some money to go eat a Texas de Brazil for lunch. We decided not to venture to TdB because it a high, high-end buffet, and I really wanted to enjoy my Indian cuisine that night. I knew I wouldn't if I gorged myself on TdB at lunch. So, we saved that for some time next week. While at home for lunch Adrianne gave me my birthday presents. She got me some easy to prepare Indian sauces, so I could try to make us some Indian food sometime soon. They look extremely yummy and just further heightened my desire for India Palace. Adrianne's Dad got me a cool looking Memphis Redbird's t-shirt too. They tricked me while he was here and actually showed it to me, but told me that it was for him. Those silly kids!!
Promptly at 5 pm I jetted outta work to get home. I wasn't sure exactly what time we were going to eat, and I didn't want to get left behind!! <--- This section intentionally left blank ---> We left for the restaurant right around 6:20, when Harsh came to pick us up. To say that the food was delicious would not be fitting of the meal we had. Man, it was heaven on a bed of rice!! I had the Chicken Vindaloo and Adrianne had the Chicken Korma. I can't pronounce, nor spell what Harsh had. We also got an order of my favorite Naan, Peshawari. Naan is a bread that tastes a lot like pizza crust. The Peshawari has a sweeter flavor and is stuffed with dried nuts and raisins. Frankly, I'd rather eat it for breakfast than anything, but that's another story.
We finished up eating, were completely stuffed, and headed home. Adrianne and I finished off the day by watching "Eurotrip". After that, it was bed time. I was cashed out. My belly was still full and telling me it was time to a long summer's nap!
Okay, that's pretty much it. Well, except that my Mom had a minor surgery yesterday, which always weighs on my mind. I made sure to call her on Wednesday night to tell her I love her, just in case anything were to happen. Sis called me yesterday when she was there to pick her up and everything went okay. However, while waiting there, my Grandpa called and my Grandma was in the hospital with some blood pooled around the base of her skull/top of her spine. She had fallen a couple of weeks ago, and they didn't know if it was caused from the fall, or if it had caused the fall. Thus far I know nothing. Here's hoping they find something out soon!
I worked hard enough to finish up everything this morning, and I've been working on and off typing this thing out, since about 10 am. However, I'm not quite done. Like I said in the beginning, I had a couple of crazy dreams over the weekend. I'm not necessarily going to try to break them down, but I'll go over the notes I wrote down after they happened...
Dream #1
- 8 strangers in a house in the middle of the desert
- One killer
- Have to survive one week
- I peel out corner of wall and climb to attic, then getting on top of the roof
- Man and boy -- man takes on killer, boy gets away
- One down, 7 to go
- All get to roof to safety
- Crazy people converge on hour to force all of us back inside
- NOTHING LIKE BEING IN A HORROR MOVIE!
- Another Horror Movie?
- Zombie time
- I had planned for this one - fully equipped
- I was much stronger than usual
- I carry a ladder (multi-fold) [note: "multi-fold" took me a long time to figure out what I wrote!]
- I had escape routes
- Walked crowd taking out Zombies all night
- Got to my hide out as a guy was turning regular and he was pissed. Wanted to fight.
- I recalled my story of why I started the "crusade"
- The last time I knew the world went zombie was the day before I was born. A zombie awoke my Mom (different than my real Mom). She went out to investigate and the Zombie tried to get her. She killed the zombie but it sent her into labor with me. She always told me about that night, just so I'd be prepared for it if it happened again. I was.
Oh yeah... Sorry to keep you waiting!
My Madness, cont...
Recent Idiocy
My Favorite Reads
Clickity Clicks
Up 'til this point
- current
- March 2006
- April 2006
- May 2006
- June 2006
- July 2006
- August 2006
- September 2006
- October 2006
- November 2006
- December 2006
- January 2007
- February 2007
- March 2007
- April 2007
- June 2007
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- March 2008
- December 2008
- February 2009
- August 2010
- July 2011
