Greystone Drive- Thoughts
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“girded with expectation
and greased with evaluation”
04.26.10 | 10:30 a.m.
the questions are thick
and gripping from head to toe
“where is your will to be weird?”
the will to walk where others will not go?
where do you fit in with the laws of the land?
and where do you stand in relation to your fellow man?
man decides what to proselytize
and men decided what to canonize
resulting, assuredly, in the fact that we all walk a fine line
girded with expectation and greased with evaluation
one, singular moment containing the power
to redefine the very nature of one’s existence
contributions, sacrifices, visions, results
all underwritten by the weight of deeds
all enscripted into a guiding creed
an ever-changing formula
derived by one metaphorical constant
who do you know?
and what are they willing to do for you?
Fight Club:
Watch; Glean; Escape.
Thursday * 05.15.08 * 2:50 p.m.
“The things you own end up owning you.”
(Tyler Durden)
From start to finish, the choreography of the dialogue and events in this film is exceptionally artful. In my personal opinion, this is one of the most defining roles of Brad Pitt’s career. His character, Tyler Durden, authoritatively probes and prods into the viewer’s stream of consciousness- all the while attacking certain societal structures that one must admit tend to impede our happiness in many ways. Finance… Religion… Relationships… So many aspects of the human condition are analyzed and, potentially, manipulated in order to expose “us” to the beliefs and routines to which we have become so fettered. This movie offers a fantastic opportunity for one to retreat into his or her personal world of thought. I think the poets and introspective souls of the world might actually take more away from the film than the average person (if there is such a thing). Regardless, as I watched, the dialogue seemed incredibly witty to me and particularly deep in many places. For the sole means of documenting those thoughts, I am including several of the quotes from the film that really stood out to me:
- “Only after disaster can we be resurrected.”
- “Now, a question of etiquette - as I pass, do I give you the ass or the crotch?” (Hilariously subtle scene on the airplane toward the beginning of the movie)
- “In the world I see - you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway.”
- “You're not your job. You're not how much money you have in the bank. You're not the car you drive. You're not the contents of your wallet. You're not your fucking khakis. You're the all-singing, all-dancing crap of the world.”
- “I am Jack's smirking revenge.”
- “Man, I see in fight club the strongest and smartest men who've ever lived. I see all this potential, and I see squandering. God damn it, an entire generation pumping gas, waiting tables; slaves with white collars. Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don't need. We're the middle children of history, man. No purpose or place. We have no Great War. No Great Depression. Our Great War's a spiritual war... our Great Depression is our lives. We've all been raised on television to believe that one day we'd all be millionaires, and movie gods, and rock stars. But we won't. And we're slowly learning that fact. And we're very, very pissed off.”
- “You have a kind of sick desperation in your laugh.”
- “And then, something happened. I let go. Lost in oblivion. Dark and silent and complete. I found freedom. Losing all hope was freedom.”
- “We're consumers. We are by-products of a lifestyle obsession. Murder, crime, poverty, these things don't concern me. What concerns me are celebrity magazines, television with 500 channels, some guy's name on my underwear. Rogaine, Viagra, Olestra.”
-“Reject the basic assumptions of civilization, especially the importance of material possessions.”
- “Home was a condo on the fifteenth floor of a filing cabinet for widows and young professionals. The walls were solid concrete. A foot of concrete is important when your next-door neighbor lets their hearing aid go and have to watch game-shows at full volume. Or when a volcanic blast of debris that used to be your furniture and personal effects blows out of your floor-to-ceiling windows and sails flaming into the night. I suppose these things happen.”
- “I have a better solution. You keep me on the payroll as an outside consultant and in exchange for my salary, my job will be never to tell people these things that I know. I don't even have to come into the office, I can do this job from home.”
- “It's just, when you buy furniture, you tell yourself, that's it. That's the last sofa I'm gonna need. Whatever else happens, I've got that sofa problem handled.”
- “When deep space exploration ramps up, it'll be the corporations that name everything, the IBM Stellar Sphere, the Microsoft Galaxy, Planet Starbucks.”
- “We are all part of the same compost heap.”
- “Warning: If you are reading this then this warning is for you. Every word you read of this useless fine print is another second off your life. Don't you have other things to do? Is your life so empty that you honestly can't think of a better way to spend these moments? Or are you so impressed with authority that you give respect and credence to all that claim it? Do you read everything you're supposed to read? Do you think every thing you're supposed to think? Buy what you're told to want? Get out of your apartment. Meet a member of the opposite sex. Stop the excessive shopping and masturbation. Quit your job. Start a fight. Prove you're alive. If you don't claim your humanity you will become a statistic. You have been warned- Tyler.”
Tuesday * 05/13/08 * 1:41 p.m.
Picture the scene. Approximately twenty students enter the classroom in hourly increments to face the 95 question final exam. Not to fear… Their loving professor, with the utmost desire of empowering and equipping their minds and academic abilities, made the exam “open notes.” Not too bad then, huh? In the space and time between, said instructor has had lots of time to catch up on grades and other clerical duties currently listed in the job description for middle school teachers. Now, in an amazing turn of events, he is actually able to compose a journal entry that will grace his MySpace site and, could it be, Greystone Drive. Truly a rare moment!
Something in the air and the music I have listened to this morning has really summoned a strong sense of nostalgia. I’ve been thinking about life and how it has changed over the years. I guess, for me, my “20s” have unquestionably been the most formative years of life itself. What a ride… Thinking back on the loss of my grandfather in 2001; I wish so badly he could be here to hold Jameson and tell him all of his stories. Mere months down the line, we said our goodbyes to Kelly. It is still hard to believe she has been away from us for 7 years! I actually dropped into the "Loved Ones Lost" section on this site earler today and reminisced a bit. It's really sobering to think about the way that life steadily moves on.
Saying goodbye to Moultrie from 2001 to 2005 was the best thing in the world for me at that time. There wasn’t one primary reason for making the move; there were several. I wanted to be closer to culture; to concerts; to new people. I needed some space and freedom to find out more about the person I was, am, and hope to be. It worked out quite well- in my appraisal, at least. The 3 years I spent in Apartment 311 are pure gold in my memories. My roommate Cliff and I, though different as the day is long, found a unique bond and lived through some crazy adventures. The expression “311” became far more than the time on a clock; than the band in the cd player; or the number on the apartment door. It became a code of conduct, and I’ll never forget it.
The past few years have brought unique opportunities to me and some of the most important people in my life. Starting with Otis… This guy and I have always been close, but the past few years we have been able to hit some amazing concerts together. Some might say, “So what?” It would take knowledge of the nature of our friendship to realize what a great thing that has been. Those Atlanta nights almost always end on the porch where we can sit back, have a few (more) drinks, and discuss any and every thing in the entire catalogue of the past, present, and future. Contributing to some of those special times have been mutual friends like Brett, Eric, Justin, Beau, Mark, and Paul after concerts like Dinosaur Jr., Alice in Chains, Deadboy and the Elephantmen, Queens of the Stone Age, cKy, Down, and the Smashing Pumpkins. All of those shows have taken place over the past couple of years.
Another friendship that I wanted to reflect on was Brett’s. As he finished with the Marine Corps in 2004, there were several times our paths actually began to cross for the first time in virtually 8 years. He and I were able to hit the Mars Volta show at the Tabernacle in early ’05. Before that, though, two really cool things happened. One: While finishing up paperwork and moving through the hiring process for his job as a secret serviceman, Brett was able to crash at 311 with me and Cliff for a couple of weeks during the summer of ‘04. I think this is really when our friendship solidified more than ever. Two: Just a few months later, I flew to Helsinki, Finland to stand as best man for his and Niina’s wedding. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life- without question- and a great honor. Now, with he, Niina, and little Audrey living in D.C., it’s basically impossible for us to get our schedules (and finances) together so we can chill it up like we’d prefer. Hopefully we can get together soon. The last time we were able to hang out was February of 2006. I can’t believe it’s been two years already…
Wow... I'm realizing as I read back over these words that I'll need to drop back in at a later date to finish this line of thought. The entry is getting long, and the time, as always, is getting short. I didn't want to be so verbose, but sometimes there's no getting around it I guess. I mainly wanted to begin vocalizing my appreciation for those important people I mentioned (and the ones I didn't quite get to)- basically in honor of the realization that we're not promised tomorrow. Even if we were, it would have come and gone before we knew it. Such is the nature of things... To all my comrades: Buddy, Justin, Eric, NaFu, Heath, Brett, Otis, and the boys in Just June (especially the one and only LoMac), thanks for helping me fill my days with good times, good music, and good memories. That's what it's all about.
Current Music:
“I’m so full of love; it deeply sickens me.”
(Motion City Soundtrack)
Sunday * 11/26/06 * 11:24 p.m.
L A T E L Y:
-Spent Thanksgiving with the family in Winder / Loganville
-Working extremely hard on my papers for college
-Lots of late night adventures with Matt & Logan in Southern Trail
-Briefly hung out with NaFu, Heath, & Gaby a few days ago
-Watching Friends season by season and loving every minute of it
-Recently watched Saw III, Stranger Than Fiction, and The Prestige
-Going to the Y on a regular basis to try and get into shape
-Listening mostly to the new Dead Poetic, Tenacious D, Guns N' Roses, and Avenged Sevenfold (City of Evil album)
-Bought Marlana a dishwasher today.
-The pregnancy is going well. We're in our 10th week!
Monday * 09/04/06 * 11:35 p.m.
It was great to have the day off today. We were able to sleep late, and after a late night last night that was a good thing. Jstn & Michael stayed over. We watched music videos, played Balderdash, and had an acoustic jam session. Eric, Mandy, Ada, Jennifer, & Brenna also came over for supper and to hang out but didn't spend the night. Once again, Marlana cooked an amazing dinner and made me so proud... She's awesome.
Mr. Mike (Lana's dad) came over today and went "Bob Vila" on our house. He fixed in one day several little projects that have been riding the tide for weeks, such as:
- Filling in a hole with concrete at the edge of the driveway
- Building & attaching a new door for the crawl space in back of the house
- Donating and installing a new medicine cabinet for the main bathroom
- Installing a new phone line to accomodate our DSL network
- Repairing the push mower
- Mrs. Barbara also brought us over a tasty southern breakfast to kick the day off right.
Other things to mention about today:
- Marlana and I went to Tifton this afternoon. Had supper at Sonny's and picked up a few things from Wal-Mart and the mall.
- Bought the newest issue of XXL magazine, and started reading the special articles on Tupac. September 13th marks the 10 year anniversary of his murder in Las Vegas, NV.
- My dad came over this afternoon and helped me take a look at my motorcycle. The whole summer went by without me riding even once. The last time I rode was the last week of school back in May. Needless to say, there appears to be issues with the fuel and the battery. I plan to get that straightened out very soon, so I can get back out there and ride in the coming autumn air.
Friday * 09/01/06 * 9:50 p.m.
CD's I am highly recommending at this time:
a. Brandtson - Hello, Control
b. Inkwell - These Stars Are Monsters
c. The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - Don't You Fake It
d. Cartel - Chroma
Thankfully, this week was one of those marked with accomplishment. I had numerous goals and objectives on the docket, and was actually able to take care of virtually everything (which is a rare occurrence). School's still going well. I really feel that I've settled into teaching, which is good considering I've been doing this for 7 school years. More so than ever, I think I know what I'm doing in there. It's really a humbling place to be when you stop and think about it... in front of 90-100 kids every day. They look. They listen. And in the middle of it all, there I am. It's weird... but really cool. Behind any complaints or frustrations I've ever had with my profession, I truly feel honored and blessed to stand in the role to which I feel I have been called.
I ended up taking Thursday of this week off from work. I needed some time to rest and recover from a minor procedure I had done Wednesday afternoon at my doctor's appointment. It really looks like that everything is cool now with the kidney stones and headaches... There was a phase of time a few weeks ago where everything got a little rough. I continue to drink lots of water. I've started eating smaller portions during meals and have been walking / jogging regularly for a few weeks now. That's really made a difference for me; I've felt better and have actually dropped a few pounds. With all this jogging, I've found myself in iTunes quite a bit more buying albums for the iPod. Gotta have the right soundtrack in the background of life's many scenes...
Of the aforementioned accomplishments of this week, some of the more significant include:
- Having the Blazer and the Accord serviced
- Submitting the necessary documents to have the Gifted Endorsement added to my teaching certificate
- Consolidating the student loans from my master's degree with Sallie Mae
- Ordering networking service for our computers at home, so we'll have 2 DSL machines instead of 1
- Handing off Mark Brackin's long-overdue check from The Pointe
- Ordering tickets to see the Gin Blossoms with Heath & Jstn later this month
- Making plans to hit up the re-release of Nightmare On Elm Street in Valdosta w/ Heath (Sep. 20th)
- Deciding to do this trip up to Atlanta with Tim and Jeramie to see The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus at The Masquerade
- Talking with Brett about the details of our coming trip to Washington D.C. this December to chill with him, Niina, and Audrey
You know... Life really is difficult sometimes, but if the majority of us are honest we'd have to admit that there is so much around us to be thankful for. I thank God for the people in my life that make it what it is. It's seasoned and exciting; hopeful and reflective; decadent yet nourishing. It's a whirlwind and a gentle breeze. Anyway... now that I sound like a crack addict, I suppose I'll close. I guess what I'm saying is that I'm really grateful to be where I am in life right now- close to my family, with a loving wife, a good job, the opportunity to play music on a regular basis, in the midst of friends with plans for coming adventures... This kind of stuff is what it's all about for me. Goodnight for now.
Now there's four more steps 'til we reach the top
And Heaven knows when we get there, we'll never stop
You bring the cigarettes, and I'll bring the conversation
And if everything works out right, we will sing...
(Inkwell)
Sunday * 08/27/06 * 10:15 p.m.
In an effort to be quick and somewhat comprehensive:
Work:
- School year is off to a great start
- Awesome students and co-workers
- New schedule that makes for busy days
- My 7th year as a teacher!
Health:
- Kidney stone episode seems to have subsided
- I return to the dentist this week for crown preparation.
Life In General:
- Played at The Pointe (in Albany) this morning with Jonap. He, Gina, Marlana, the boys and I had lunch at Sonny's. Did a little shopping afterwards. Came home and watched "Caddyshack."
- Southern Trail played The Vault last night. Nathan went with me and took some awesome pictures of the band- poses and action shots. The after-party, as usual, was the Huddle House. By the time we made it home and got in the bed, the numbers glaring through the dark room read 3:32. Rise and shine at 6:30 a.m. to head over to Albany... Good times.
- Still teaching swim lessons in the afternoons
Music:
- Got tickets for me and Otis to go see Alice In Chains on October 11th at the Tabernacle (one of my all-time favorite venues) in Atlanta. I'm seriously looking forward to the show and to being able to chill it up with Reverend Blackout.
- Also heavily considering going to see the Gin Blossoms at Floyd's on Monday September 25th in Tally. Heath may be hitting that one with me.
- I've been listening to lots of the following lately: cKy, Tool, The Avett Brothers (thanks to NaFu), Cartel, Head Automatica, Led Zeppelin, Underoath, Wolfmother
- I will probably be going to Atlanta with Tim and Jeramie on Sep. 8th for the Red Jumpsuit Apparatus show at the Masquerade. We've still got to iron out the details on that one.
Movies:
- We've been watching lots of stuff at home lately, like- Chapelle Show: Season One; Friday the 13th box set (the first 4 so far); 48 Hours & Another 48 Hours; Beverly Hills Cop; Explorers, etc... mostly 80's stuff. I've been on an 80's kick for a while now. It was an awesome decade in many ways. I have so many fond memories of things that I did, places I went, and people I spent time with as a kid in the 80's. I'm sure that's why I'm so into 80's stuff, so that I can capture some of that magic from my childhood... reconnect, I guess.
- In the theater, we've most recently seen "World Trade Center." It was heavy. Well-done, I thought, especially for an Oliver Stone film. The images sparked my mind to remember where I was and what I was doing on that terrible day (Monroe, GA. Teaching 4th grade.), and also served as a reminder that this war on terror is a complicated business. We're not fighting countries. We're at war with religious zealots who feel that they are doing their spiritual duty when they steal, kill, and destroy... for the promise of favor and gifts like virgins beyond the veil- in paradise. Peace is mythical in this day and age of Islamic Jihad... With that, I need to close. I've got to get some sleep tonight. Another week begins tomorrow.
Sunday * 07/30/06 * 10:28 p.m.
This post finds me amidst one of life's many storms. Thursday afternoon, Marlana convinced me to go see Dr. Baddour due to a nagging pressure in the lower left side of my back. I could not have been prepared for the news I would receive... The nurse did a couple of x-rays, and I waited for the doctor to come in and discuss them with me. Turns out that I have 7 small stones in my left kidney... yeah, seven. My first question was why in the world didn't they address those stones back in March when I had the right side "blasted," to which they explained that they only treated the right side at that time because of the urgent nature of the problem. So... Friday afternoon, they gave me a stint and tomorrow I'll be having the stones blasted. The pain was horrible Friday evening, but as soon as the medicine got into my system and I was able to lie down and rest, life improved. Since then, Marlana and I have had a great weekend just taking it easy around the house. We've watched the Back to the Future Trilogy; all seven Police Academy movies; and several epsiodes of Seinfeld, He-Man, The Smurfs, and The Golden Girls. Besides the tv, we've straightened out our files, paid some bills, worked on scrapbooks, and I have labeled all of our photo albums and realphabetized my cd and movie collections. So, it's actually turned out to be a good thing to have been cooped up in the house this weekend. These were things I've been meaning to get to for a while now anyway.
Yesterday was Marlana's 23rd birthday. Michelle and Jason came over for a while to give her a present and hang out. In the afternoon, her mom and dad came over and brought an amazing lunch: grilled chicken, zucchini, fresh corn, sugar snap peas, green beans, and a DQ ice cream cake. Mom and Het stopped by as well after making it in from the beach. Today, we went down to my parents' for another great lunch. It's very reassuring to have your folks around when you're down and out.
This coming week, I'll be concentrating on trying to feel better and getting everything ready at school. Lana and I went over to my classroom Friday morning before my procedure and got lots of stuff done, so I'm hoping I won't fall too far behind. Pre-planning starts Tuesday, and the kids come back next Monday. Hopefully, I'll be back on track and all set to go for Open House this coming Thursday. I'm hoping for another school year as great as last year.
Wednesday * 07/26/06 * 6:02 p.m.
Little did I know when I made my last post that it would take me another month to make it back. Life has been a little crazy and busy the past few weeks. Now, we're at the threshold of a new school year. I actually spent a couple of hours in my classroom today hooking up computers, wiping off counters, etc... trying to get everything ready. I'll probably head back over tomorrow at some point as well. In an effort to bridge the gap between this post and the last, I think I'll list some of the things that have gone on matter-of-factly as not to bog myself (or anyone else) down with the details.
Saturday (22nd)- Worked on my website for SPEC 5610; Went to see Lady In The Water in Tifton; Marlana cooked spaghetti; Met up with the boys for Southern Trail's show in Fitzgerald at The White Horse Saloon. We had an awesome time. Marcella and Sandi showed up unexpectedly (all the way from Acworth). The presence of Mindy and Cori made the place a little more lively as well. After the show, a big group headed over to the Huddle House for some grub. It was probably 3:30 or so when we finally made it home.
Sunday (23rd)- Submitted my website to be graded; Worked all morning on my 10 page term paper on the SAT; Had lunch at Granny's in Ellenton; Had a Golden Girls Marathon with Marlana while working on scrapbooking projects
Monday (24th)- Swim Lessons at Mrs. Bonnie's; Breakfast w/ Lana @ Hardee's; Private lesson; Dad & Herb came over and cut the grass for us; Dentist Appointment (Cleaning); Continued to work on the term paper until collapse, at which time I turned on the tube for a bit; Around midnight, we caught the first terrorist cat in our "Hav-A-Hart" trap
Tuesday (25th)- Returned to the Dentist for prep work on the crown I'll be receiving soon; Emerged to a voicemail from Marlana that we had caught the mother cat, and she was be taking her to the Humane Society (She had already transported the first one.); I spent the majority of my day FINISHING my paper- finally; Marlana brought lunch home from the BBQ Pit; Brett called, and we talked about our trip up there this December to washington D.C.; Worked in my classroom for an hour or so; Had a swim lesson to do; Marlana went in to work at Blue Sky, so I ate supper at Mom & Dad's; Went out to the bike trail with Mom, Het, and Mrs. Joy for some exercise; Worked on the Southern Trail webpage; Talked to Otis for the first time in a long while
Wednesday (26th)- Swim Lessons at Mrs. Bonnie's; Private lesson; Breakfast from Burger King; Continued working on the Southern Trail webpage; Headed to the school as mentioned above; Marlana made a unique supper for the two of us tonight. We had grilled salmon, au gratin potatoes, sauteed zucchini, and yeast rolls. Needless to say, when Het asked me about going for a run tonight I agreed. I'm trying to slim down.
Okay... The further I went with the update above, the more tedious and nerve-racking it got. I really didn't want to go day by day and list everything. That gets monotonous and boring, but at the same time, somtimes logging things by day helps me remember more. This is, after all, my official journal. I don't have a hard copy as of yet. Anyway... I'm changing gears. I'll finish up by listing a few of the more notable occurences of the past few weeks, then I'm going out for a run:
- Went to see The Receiving End of Sirens and Circa Survive in Tallahassee with Heath; We had supper at Crystal River; Good music, good conversation, good times.
- The cats ended up striking out at Betty (my Honda Accord) three separate times. They were obsessed with chewing through wires in our motor. That's why we've had to respond with guerilla warfare. We're in the process of catching them one by one and taking them to the Humane Society. So far, we've caught 3 out of 4 known suspects.
- Not good news from my checkup at Dr. Baddour's the other day... They said I have small stones in my left kidney. A few months ago, I went through a huge ordeal with my right side. This combined with the root canal I had last week has managed to accumulate quite a bit of doctor's bills here lately. I noticed they've just about finished the addition / renovation at Dr. Baddour's office. Glad I can do my part to help pay off the loan...
- Southern Trail is more fun these days than ever. We're getting better musically, bonding more as friends, and making a little bit of money for having fun on the weekends. Playing music in front of people on a regular basis is something I've always wanted to do.
- I've been on the biggest TOOL kick of my life lately. 10,000 Days has been on regular rotation in the computer room; Aenima in the bathroom (absolutely no pun intended); and the infamous Undertow in the Blazer. We're planning on catching them in concert when they finally make it over this way.
- Finished my Gifted Endorsement coursework yesterday. I've been breathing a little easier ever since. We had a ton of stuff to do this semester.
Okay, I'm out. Time to run off some of supper's calories.
Wednesday * 06/27/06 * 11:02 a.m.
The month of June has been a lot of fun. I've stayed really busy with swim lessons. I'm teaching group lessons three mornings a week at Mrs. Bonnie's- with usually 4-5 kids in each group. Then, on an average day, I'll have 4 or 5 private lessons at random pools around town. I'm also lifeguarding for the "big kids" at Mrs. Bonnie's pool for their afternoon swim session from 1-3. Marlana has been making the rounds with me this summer. She's a huge help.
Before I start forgetting specifics, I wanted to log some of the things that have been going on this summer. Starting with yesterday (27th), we worked until mid-afternoon when the thunder rolled in. I ended up pushing all of yesterday's afternoon lessons to today (usually my off day). Marlana and I went to Sonic for a late lunch. Last night, I picked Buddy up and we headed to the Class Reunion meeting. Talk about surreal. Sitting in a room of 20-30 people that you once saw on a daily basis in school. Years go by and you totally lose touch. It's amazing, though, how you can look these people in the eye and your mind is bringing all sorts of memories to the surface. The primary focus of last night's meeting was to track down more addresses and phone numbers and to pick out songs for the band (Southern Trail) and the DJ (Keith "Brother" Hose). Of course, along the way, people would give updates about "so and so" and tell us where he or she had ended up and what they were doing in life. It's hard to believe I've been out of school for 10 years! Anyway, after the meeting Marlana met me and B.I. at El Cazador for supper. From there, we were off to the awe-inspiring Moultrie Twin Cinema to see a 10:00 showing of Superman Returns. Overall, I really enjoyed it. It was a bit slow at times, but definitely worth seeing.
As for other recent days past:
Monday (26th) was filled to the brim with swim lessons and lifeguarding. We worked from 9 to 6:30. I hurried home, got ready, and headed over to Southern Trail practice. We have 11 gigs lined up so far from here to November, so we're really trying to tighten everything up. We want to perform especially well in Albany on the 7th. That's our next show.
Sunday (25th), Lana and I went to church. Cori and Jen were both there and sat with us. It was a trip to watch Brenna sing along with the music. After church, we met up with Het, Justin, and his family at Don Jose's. Michelle and Jason came over that afternoon. Jason and I had a good time playing old school Nintendo games and talking about music and motorcycles. That night, we watched Capote- pretty good movie.
Saturday (24th), we (me, Lana, NaFu) all slept late. I spent a couple of hours orienting myself to my new iPod. I downloaded some Dave Chapelle stand-up and SNL: The Best of Will Ferrell, so I should be good-to-go for the plane ride to Vegas. Marlana fixed an awesome breakfast, and she, Nathan, and I sat around and watched Criss Angel: Mindfreak for at least an hour and a half. All the while, we were trying to find a garage that could see about Nathan's car. Everyone was closed. It kind-of reminds me of the Andy Griffith episode where the businessman rolls through Mayberry and has car trouble. Wally has the service station closed on Sunday, so the guy ends up staying and learning a lesson about taking it easy. Gaby came over to pick Nathan up that afternoon. Marlana and I had her parents over for dinner, which, again, was incredible. We had lemon pepper baked pork chops, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn on the cob, dinner rolls, salad, and cheesecake. It's no freakin' wonder I can't lose any weight.
Friday (23rd) was an interesting day. Lana and I slept much later than we had planned. As we headed to town to run errands, I noticed the temperature gauge climbing rapidly toward the red, so I did what I always do in that kind of situation- called Dad. He came to look at with me. We added water and he recommended that I have some engine coolant on hand, 'cause it's probably going to need some soon. Mom & Dad's house was full that day. Granny was there helping Mom keep my two precious cousins: Ada and Paxton. Dad and Haley were also there, so Lana and I went down there to hang out for a while. That afternoon, Lana went in to work at Blue Sky and I hung out with Nathan. I met him and Heath at Heath's office downtown. We sat around and talked a while. Then, on the short trip from the office to my house, Nathan's car bit the dust. I drove back over to where he was and of-course wasn't able to contribute much to the problem, so, once again, I called Dad. We ended up towing the car over here to the house. Nate and I proceeded to Tifton for iPod accessories, Sonny's BBQ, and to watch Adam Sandler's Click. As always, in the midst of humor, he sneaks in a deep, touching life message. That's a real talent that I respect about him. After the movie, we dropped by Starbucks and chilled outside for a while sipping our cappucinos in the 80 degree southern heat. The remainder of the night was spent surfing the net and playing music.
Thursday (22nd): Swim lessons galore; Bought the iPod Video
Wednesday (21st): Did homework most of the day; Marlana babysat Paxton; Had three or four swim lessons scattered throughout the day; Southern Trail practice
Tuesday (20th): Had to buy anti-cat weaponry (Cat Trap: Yes. They actually make cat traps.) and "Cat & Dog Away" spray; Swim lessons
Monday (19th): Swim lessons; Came home to find pieces of wire chewed through on the Accord. The culprits? Cats. They chewed through a 2 inch section of three wires way up in the motor. Marlana's dad came to splice everything back together for us. Those terrorists almost ruined Betty.
Sunday (18th): Tended to my sick wife. She had a stomach bug. Picked up pine cones and cut grass for 5-6 hours. Ridculous, as Heath would say.
Saturday (17th): Went to The Casket Collision practice out at Eric's. Those guys have a good sound going. Very much in the vein of Agents Of Oblivion, and that's a great vein in which to be. After leaving there that night, I went up to the Blue Sky and hung out with Marlana and Mindy. Wes Heath was playing.
Well... I'm spent. I hate that this entry turned out so long, but I've really let too much time pass between updates. I think I'll do better in the hereafter. Later.
Sunday * 06/11/06 * 11:34 p.m.
Making History Like I Do
I finally finished my homework for this week. It took several hours to finish the reading and essays. One week down, six to go in this semester... Earlier today, Marlana and I watched "The Family Stone." Good movie. Left me thinking at the end... about family, friends, the places we end up in life, the commodity that good health is, etc. Life is fleeting and uncertain.
Currently listening:
Hey There Delilah
By Plain White T's
Release date: By 09 May, 2006
Thursday * 06/08/06 * 11:03 p.m.
What A View
Marcella & Kevin's wedding was a blast. Essentially, it was a three day party in the mountains just outside of Seveirville, TN. There were scores of people crashing on beds, couches, floors, and hammocks between the two cabins. It was really great to be there for such a special time. I'm sure, at some point, I'll put up a picture or two of the festivities.
This week has afforded me: a sun tan; a decent paycheck for lifeguarding and teaching MANY swim lessons; and my Rickenbacker bass guitar. And after learning the mighty Duff McKagan's perfect bass intro for Sweet Child O' Mine, I left Southern Trail practice feelin' pretty stoked last night.
NaFu is finally back in town. We got together a couple of nights ago for supper and to catch up on the innumerable sights and experiences he encountered during his multiple month stint backpacking in Europe. It may be in the cards for him to stay in MoTown for a matter of weeks- even months. That would definitely be cool.
I have tomorrow off. Dish Network will be dropping by between 12 & 2 to brighten our world via satellite. We'll finally rid ourselves of this haphazard cable service we've endured for this first year of being back home. Tomorrow evening, Marlana and I are supposed to go out to dinner and a movie with my mom and sis. We're both looking forward to that.
Currently listening:
Out of the Cellar
By Ratt
Release date: By 25 October, 1990
Wendesday * 05/31/06 * 4:00 p.m.
Hey Miss Murder
We're officially done with the school year as of today, and it's already time to go... Marlana and I are heading up to Atlanta for the night, then driving the second half of the trip up to the Tennessee Mountains for Marcella & Kevin's wedding. We should be back on Sunday if all goes as planned. Swim lessons start the next day, as does Summer Semester for Valdosta State. Looking forward to freedom, friends, and sunshine...
Currently listening:
Decemberunderground
By AFI
Release date: By 06 June, 2006
Sunday * 05/28/06 * 11:31 p.m.
It's a see-through show.
Sunday: Church at The Pointe in Albany; Had lunch at Jonap & Gina's new apartment; Hung out at the Albany Mall for a bit; Went to see X Men 3; Came home and ordered Domino's pizza, played Nintendo, and watched The Private Eyes, an old movie starring Don Knotts and Tim Conway
Saturday: Awoke to the smell of fresh coffee and breakfast food; We ate out back of Aunt Irene's in her screened-in patio. This is becoming somewhat of a tradition. Watched the President's commencement speech at West point; We hung out until 10 a.m. or so, then hit the road bound for Moultrie. Marlana worked at Blue Sky that night. I watched t.v. and went uptown to do a little shopping. Had supper with Mom at Five Corners. Southern Trail practice started around 8. As of last night, we have two original songs completed. I'm really pleased with our current progress.
Friday: Had breakfast at Fuller's with Marlana; First day of post planning at school; Gave the cheerleaders a little business for their faculty car wash; They did a good job of cleaning up the Blazer. We had a faculty luncheon, where we formally said our goodbyes and thank yous to the people who are retiring this year. We were also introduced to our new principal for the first time. Finished up my list of things to do and was able to leave early.
Aunt Florene met up with me and Marlana here at the house. We stopped by to pick up Granny and were off to Jacksonville. We made it to Aunt Irene's and ate supper. She had a huge spread waiting on us right when we pulled up. Lana and I hurried to finish, 'cause we were afraid we would be late for the He Is Legend show. Doors were supposed to open at 6. We arrived at Thee Imperial, the venue, around 7:20. People were still standing in a long line that wrapped around the corner. Lots of things happened at the show that could easily form a long story. Since I'm not in the mood for that amount of time and typing committment, I'll condense the primary events into list form: 1. Show started over an hour late; 2. The idiots stacked the line-up six bands deep; 3. No exaggeration, it had to be 90 something degrees in there; 4. It was so crowded, all you could do was stand and sweat- and glance every once in a while to see if the fire marshall had arrived to shut the place down; 5. The club had and enforced a "No Re-Entry" policy; 6. Erin "couldn't take the heat and had to get out of the kitchen," so she ended up waiting in the car for several hours while the show plodded along; 7. Of the 6 bands that played, the best was without a doubt He Is Legend, followed by Showbread. Those guys put on an amazing live show 8. HIL gets on stage around 11:45. At 12, the sound guy announced that everyone under the age of 21 had to leave- which pissed 40 % of the crowd off to no end. Lots of trash talking followed between the stage, the crowd, and the booth. At this time, Buddy, Chris, Derek, Jake, and Jason gave it up and left. Finally, the show resumed and HIL blew the place apart. Stage diving, crowd surfing, the spitting and hurling of fluids off the stage onto the crowd, climbing up beams and fixtures; wildly flashing lights; and the cover of Nirvana's Territorial Pissings just to relay an idea of the performance. I definitely want to see these guys again, soon. Given the right mood, crowd, and environment, a HIL show could easily epitomize what a real rock show should be all about: energy, fun, release; and disregard. Lana and I made it back to Aunt Irene's and crawled into bed around 1:30 or so.
Thursday: Last day of school for the kids! Worked my last shift at the YMCA from 4-6, then guarded for a private party at the Indian Lake pool.
Wednesday: Finally had Gunboat Diplomacy practice for the first time in at least a month... Things weren't really flowing. Outlook unknown.
Currently listening:
Alice in Chains
By Alice In Chains
Release date: By 07 November, 1995
Saturday * 05/20/06 * 8:10 p.m.
Ride On
I've been taking it easy this weekend. Last night, Mom, Dad, and I went out to Jernigan's for supper. Came home and messed around on the computer pretty much the whole night until Marlana made it in from the Blue Sky. This morning, she and I went out for breakfast. Hung out around the house together for a little while. Then, she was off once again to work. I washed the motorcycle and went out for a ride a while ago. Met Het for supper at Barber's earlier and made a trip to the tanning bed. (That sounds so gay.)
I'm really not used to having free time on my hands... For the past several weeks, I've either had a gig with Southern Trail or band practice with Gunboat Diplomacy on Friday and/or Saturday. It's nice to be off, though. I talked with Eric earlier. He's supposed to be riding over so we can listen to the new Tool. Other than that, I think I'll sit back with some popcorn and a movie. Maybe exercise a little. And try to figure out a Southern Trail style cover of Artimus Pyledriver's Dixie Fight Song. I think that tune would really fit us.
This past week, we were actually able to hang out with some people. (Schedules often prohibit normal social encounters in our household.) Wednesday, I met up with Heath for supper at the BBQ Pit. Then, we hung out in his downtown office squaring away an article for the upcoming issue of Moultrie Magazine. It's entitled "Lifeguard On Duty," and talks about my track record of teaching swim lessons and lifeguarding. It's like an article slash advertisement, so hopefully it'll drum up a little business for me this summer. Thursday night, Lana and I had dinner with Cam & Erin at La Fogata. That was a good time; except, of course, when a nice sized piece of one of my molars broke off in the middle of the chips and salsa appetizer. Time to go pay Randy Benner's (my dentist) electricity bill for the month... We agreed to make the four of us hanging out a regular event. I also stopped by and caught up with my long lost fellow diplomat, Jstn, at his new place of residence. He, Jen, & Brenna have relocated across town. It finally seems that things will be getting back on track for them and for Gunboat. Fingers crossed.
Well... I have four days left with the greatest group of kids I've ever taught. I use the expression "I've taught," but the truth is I've learned a lot from them as well. I'm glad Marlana and I are settled in, so that I can watch these guys grow and mature through high school and beyond. I'll really miss them next year.
Currently listening:
Artimus Pyledriver
By Artimus Pyledriver
Release date: By 06 June, 2006
Thursday * 05/11/06 * 10:53 p.m.
Current Favorite Songs:
1. Unemployable ----- Pearl Jam
2. Dani California ----- Red Hot Chili Peppers
3. China White ----- He Is Legend
4. Penelope ----- Saosin
5. Its The End Of The World As We Know It ----- R.E.M.
Thursday * 05/11/06 * 10:43 p.m.
I've been watching the first season of Party Of Five religiously the past few days. I loved that show back in the glorious nineties. Anyway, I've noticed a couple of odd occurences. Twice, so far, during this season there have been songs playing in the background that were WAY before their time. Since the first season of Party Of Five came out in 1994, what is a song from Poor Old Lu's 2002 album (The Waiting Room) doing on there? It was also really strange to me when a Filet Of Soul song from their 1998 album (Incommunicado) showed up in the background of the coffee shop where "Bailey" meets "Jill" for the first time. Really cool to hear those random, semi-underground songs- just strange.
Currently listening:
Stadium Arcadium
By Red Hot Chili Peppers
Release date: By 09 May, 2006
Tuesday * 05/02/06 * 9:09 a.m.
Sitting in Advisory at the moment. We have a program going on at school this week called CHOICES. It's designed to help kids think about what kinds of jobs, apartments, salaries, etc... they would like to have in the future. There's actually a guest speaker in here working with my kids, so I've been able to pay a couple of bills and finish a checklist that I've been needing to work on for the end-of-the-year.
Last night was fun. After school, I lifeguarded from 4-6. Swam 35 lengths (1/2 mile). Then, I went to pick Marlana up for our "date." We went to Tifton. Ate at Red Lobster and went to see Silent Hill. It was crazy late by the time we made it home... and, of course, morning came earlier than seemed possible. But it was cool to do something different... With our busy schedules, Lana and I rarely have time just to hang out like we used to.
The upcoming weekend has "busy" written all over it. Friday night, the guys in my Sunday night Fusion group from Heritage are spending the night at my house. We're going to be involved in a huge activity called "Simple '06." Then, Saturday, Southern Trail plays at the Moultrie YMCA at 1:00 and again at the Tara Grinstead Benefit in Fitzgerald around 8:00. Gunboat Diplomacy was supposed to be playing at this event as well, but the bottom line of that "long story" is that it's not going to work out.
Future 'known' events of significance:
May 26, 2006 ------- He Is Legend: Finally! (Jacksonville, FL)
June 03, 2006 ------- Marcella & Kevin's Wedding (Gatlinburg, TN)
June 16, 2006 ------- Rickenbacker Bass scheduled to arrive!
December 18-22, 2006 ------- Spending the week with Brett, Niina, & Audrey (Washington, DC)
January 16, 2007 ------- Cliff & Adrienne's Wedding (Monroe, GA)
Thursday * 04/06/06 * 12:26 p.m.
We're back from the eastern coast of this great state. Our first anniversary was a success. It's just too bad there's not an easier way over to Savannah. It's either 'backroads and save a few miles' or 'interstate and save about an hour.' We took 'backroads' going and 'interstate' coming. Either way, it's a long ride.
I thought I'd hit the highlights of our illustrious break thus far. Saturday morning, we stopped off at a Burger King, which, like every other fast food establishment in Tifton at that time, was busting at the seams with people. After waiting 'in immigrant fashion,' we returned to the car to get the show on the road. Dead battery... The long-story short is that Lana's dad headed up to help us get everything straightened out- mainly to make sure it was in fact a battery problem and not something more serious. We ended up buying a new one from Wal-Mart.
To keep the good times rolling, MapQuest served us up some psychotic directions... We drove through lots of small towns, just like I'd expected, but there were times when we'd hit a stretch of road and not see anybody for several miles. At one point, we made a turn that the directions called for- out in the middle of nowhere. The road looked like a small trail through the trees. In my head, I was thinking about how badly it would suck to have car trouble out there in the swamp. The only neighbors to help for miles lived in mobile home colonies... old school, singlewide, off-color & rusted, with very few vehicles in sight. We'd have ended up in the Observer.
Savannah was as cool as ever. It was Marlana's first visit, and, since it was our anniversary, we did more of the touring and stuff to really take in the city. While there, we went on a nighttime "Haunted Carriage" ride through downtown. We rode on the Georgia Queen for a riverboat brunch cruise down the Savannah River- which was really cool. We went to a show at the Mercury Lounge, which is said to be haunted by a Civil War era ghost. We didn't see anything supernatural... just the over-consumption of alcoholic beverages. We ate at two really cool restaurants: One Eyed Lizzy's on River Street and Molly MacPherson's in the City Market area. I was super impressed with Molly MacPherson's- an authentic Scottish pub. Other than that, we walked around through many of the squares, visited the Revolutionary War Cemetery as well as Bonaventure, and took in a movie. I think we found the right balance of romance, rest, and the realization of what this city has to offer.
Since making it home, we've been trying to enjoy our time off. Monday afternoon, I lifegaurded from 4-6 and had Southern Trail practice. Tuesday, we slept late and had lunch at the BBQ Pit. I lifeguarded from 4-6 again. That night, we went up to Movie Gallery to rent one movie. By the time we left, we had purchased nine. Blame this on an awesome sale they have going on right now. Our new additions are: Batman Begins, The Devil's Rejects, The Dukes of Hazzard, The Excorcism of Emily Rose, The Ring Two, Sin City, The Skeleton Key, Walk the Line, and War of the Worlds. Needless to say, it's been a good week for movies at the 438. Yesterday, we slept late again. Cooked breakfast at home, then tried to get a few things done around the house. I finally washed the motorcycle and picked up the pinecones in the backyard. (Grass cutting season is upon us once again.) Also took care of this month's bills and filled out my FAFSA. I managed to go out for the first ride on my motorcycle in months while Marlana was at class. It felt good. Today has been all about servicing the cars. We've already had the tires rotated and balanced and the oil changed in the Blazer (Cricket). The Accord (Betty) is up there now taking her turn. Tonight, I'm supposed to be practicing with Jonap. I'll be filling in on bass with his band this Sunday at a church in Albany.
Now that my hand aches from all this typing, I'll close with the musical thoughts below.
Bands that freakin' rock: .::cKy, He Is Legend, Saosin::. I do believe that if my entire cd collection perished, the music created by the bands above would somehow see me through. Don't get me wrong, I still have my all-time favorites, but these guys are all amazing. Check 'em out if you haven't yet.
Saturday * 04/01/06 * 12:47 a.m.
River Street the Backdrop
Come Sunday, "Lanabug" and I will have been married for one whole year! We're heading out for Savannah in the morning to celebrate.
Friday * 03/31/06 * 12:40 p.m.
About 8 years ago (age 19), when I was still working for Turner Roofing with my dad, I caught this pain in my back that wouldn't subside no matter how I moved or stretched. I had been carrying shingles and moving other supplies up a ladder for most of the day, so I assumed I had pulled a muscle or something. I ended up going to the doctor a few days later, when the pain refused to give way. It turned out to be my first bout with kidney stones.
Approximately 5 years ago (age 22), during my first full year of teaching, this pain returned. It happened to be during the week of Thanksgiving Holidays and Justin was up with me in Loganville. I went to the doctor up there, and he told me the same news- kidney stones. I ended up having them blasted on New Year's Eve (of all days) of 2001.
Fast forward to last week. Thursday afternoon, Marlana and I met up with Heath for some supper at the BBQ Pit. I was fine when we first arrived, but the longer we sat there the more my back began to hurt. We hurried home, so that I could lay myself down and try to get some relief. When the vomiting and the pain wouldn't ease up, Marlana called the doctor and he said for us to hurry on over. This time, it ended up being one large stone that had moved into the tube that connects the kidney and the bladder. It set up its own little roadblock and taught me a lesson about what death must feel like.
Fortunately, after x-rays, doctor's office visits, medications, 'blasting,' and some much-needed rest, I seem to be getting back to normal. This week has been 'shot out,' though. I'm really looking forward to Spring Break!
Tuesday * 03/21/06 * 9:17 p.m.
Still busy. Teaching... lifeguarding... rocking out two to three days most weeks between two bands... being a husband, a son, a brother, a friend... And in the midst of everything, considering all that life consists of and represents. My place in it. My future... in all of the roles mentioned above and those that remain unseen.
My faith... which feels so pure and refreshing at times and clouded and confusing at others. I wonder if there are things I need to be doing differently in order to be more fulfilled. Sometimes I feel out of place with my friends / acquaintances who are unapologetically Christians... Sometimes I'm right at home in that crowd. On random moments I feel very out of place with my friends / acquaintances who are unapologetically not Christians, or, in some cases, anti-Christian. And yet, in certain moments, I'm at home there as well... not with those beliefs, but with the people. I feel that I understand many viewpoints from both sides.
I don't know. I don't want to be the 'lukewarm' person that's mentioned in Revelation- destined to be spewed from the very mouth of God. At the same time, I don't feel called to be an uptight Stoic either... restricting myself in certain areas for the sake of restriction. I find myself wrestling for common ground. And, as I grow older, willing to admit that I don't have all of the answers that I might have once thought. The law vs. grace. Avoidance vs. moderation. Getting out of something what you go into it with.
If I'm remembered for anything, I hope it's not as a Christian mastermind who followed all the rules. I'd rather be remembered as a person who strived to be honest and real. A person who loved life and others in an authentic way. Somebody to be depended on and to stand up when it was time to be counted for a noble cause or ideal.
Wednesday * 03/08/06 * 12:32 p.m.
Jstn and I finished recording a rough demo of Gunboat Diplomacy's newest song, The Overpass, last night. It's posted on our MySpace page, so drop by and check it out. Even though my schedule is hectic to the point of retardation most days, I'm still really pumped about being involved in music again. It had been too long...
On a side note... I watched "Donnie Brasco" for the first time Sunday night. Very few actors draw me in to a film as much as the man- Al Pacino- does. I mean, when else in the world would I be so emotionally concerned with the welfare of a mobster who has 26 "hits" under his belt. Johnny Depp was no slouch in that movie either. He did an awesome job as "Joe Pistone" (aka Donnie Brasco). Check it out if you've never seen it.
Kids In The Way & House of Heroes tonight in Jacksonville, FL!
Murray Hill Theatre
Tuesday * 03/07/06 * 2:27 p.m.
I actually have a couple of minutes to update presently. Time for journaling is a rare and precious commodity these days. Usually, during my planning period on Tuesdays, we have department meetings. After school today, I'm supposed to lifeguard 4-7, then head out to Jstn's for practice. We wrote a new song Sunday afternoon and are trying to get a demo track of it to throw on MySpace. The song's called "The Overpass." (Lyrics are in the "Issues With Ellen" section.)
Chris and I met at the Y last night to work out. It was my second time in this new venture. I really want to get into better shape- for lots of reasons- but mainly just to feel better. I'm tired of feeling lazy (even though I'm perpetually busy) and out of shape. I also set up an account at Tropical Sun for a few tanning bed visits. (I've grown stranger and less predictable in my age.) For me, when I'm tan, it seems to help me through the committment process of working out and vice versa... When I'm working out, it seems to just call for a darker, summer-type look. Whatever...
A few of us may be rocking out in Jacksonville, Fl tomorrow night- at the Kids In The Way / House of Heroes show. It's still hanging in the balance, but if we can it'll be me, E.F.W., and some of the guys that I hang out with on Sunday nights in the Heritage Youth group: Jeramie, Jesse, Timothy, Brandon, Judd, etc... Obviously, with the show being on a school night and Jax being about a 2 1/2 hour drive one-way, I'm kind-of riding the fence. I'd love to see the show, but I really wish it fell on a weekend night.
Thursday night, Southern Trail will be practicing again getting ready to play The Vault in Pelham on March 18th. We already have drafts of shirt & sticker designs, so as soon as the equipment end of things is straightened out, we'll be making that investment and will have some merch available. I'm hoping the same is true of Gunboat Diplomacy. We're working hard to get everything off the ground- writing original music that truly fits with our new approach to songwriting and pulling up covers from some of our favorite indie / grunge / pop-punk artists from yesterday and today. This outfit has tons of potential in my eyes.
I received my Masters degree in the mail yesterday... The pay raise was reflected on this past month's check, so the deal is sealed. 20 months of hard labor finally will start to pay off, and so will I... I incurred a healthy-sized student loan along the way. So... Even though the Honda is now payed off (which is an awesome feeling in and of itself), in a way it's like I have another car payment until I can get this student loan taken care of. It's all good, though. "Spend money to make money."
Wednesday * 03/01/06 * 9:22 p.m.
My week:
Monday- School, Lifeguarded 4-7, Gunboat Diplomacy practice at Jstn's | Tuesday- School, Supper with Heath at The Plantation House- a new restaurant downtown on the square, moMENtum at Heritage, Stopped by the Illian's for a few minutes | Wednesday- School, Lifeguarded 5:30-7, Had to pick up my equipment from Jstn's | Thursday- School, Lifeguard 4:7, Southern Trail practice at Jimmy's (We're getting ready for our first gig: March 18th at The Vault in Pelham, GA.) | Friday- School, Most likely hanging out and spending the night in Valdosta | Saturday- Marlana takes the Praxis at Sylvan Learning Center, Gunboat Diplomacy practice
I've been limping it up with an in-grown toenail. I haven't had one of these stupid things in ages, and it definitely seems to be making up for lost time. Had another movie moment Monday morning as well while getting ready for work- late all the while, of course... An average tube of Crest became a missile launcher when I unscrewed the cap and proceeded to line the bristles of my toothbrush with toothpaste. For some reason, the little bubble that forms on the end of the tube busted with uncommon force and sent ADA approved molecules straight into my right eye. Freakin' blinded me for 2 or 3 minutes. I'm writhing through the house like an idiot... late for work with no cash for breakfast while the low fuel light gleams like a demon in the Blazer. Good times.
Tuesday * 02/21/06 * 10:45 p.m.
We Are Night Sky:
I've posted the pictures from the Deadboy & the Elephantmen show on my website. Go to the Concert Pics section.
Friday * 02/17/06 * 6:59 a.m.
This week has been crazy. Monday and Tuesday in Atlanta for the reading conference... Now I'll be out again today to record with Southern Trail. We're meeting at the Huddle House at 8:00 to get some breakfast before getting started.
Tonight we're heading down to Tallahassee to see Deadboy and the Elephantmen (me & Lana, Jstn & Jen, Eric & Mandi, & Jeremy). They'll be playing "Club Down Under" at Florida State University. Jstn and I have been waiting years to see Dax Riggs in concert. For so long, he's stayed in Louisiana pretty much exclusively, so he's been really hard to catch. It should be amazing, though. This guy has one of the coolest vocal stylings ever, which he's proven in Acid Bath, Agents of Oblivion, and now Deadboy.
Tomorrow morning I have an inservice at the YMCA from 9-12. Niina's baby shower is set for 2:00 here at the house. Brett and I have been trying to touch base with each other but keep playing phone tag. He won't be able to make it down this time. His new job with the federal government is keeping him pretty busy to say the least. At some point, we're wanting to make a trip up there to stay with him & Niina and take in the sights of our nation's capital.
Time to close. I still have a few things to take care of before beginning this sure-to-be busy day. Have a good one.
Sunday * 02/12/06 * 9:49 a.m.
Comfortable chair + large double window + 1/2 sunlight & 1/2 snowfall= the perfect laidback Sunday morning.
Saturday * 02/11/06 * 9:31 p.m.
Refunds, Snowflakes, & Recording Sessions
Life is really good today... Marlana and I had our taxes done this afternoon at H&R Block in Loganville. The result was a $5,100.00 refund! That's gonna help sooo much! We left there and headed up to Marcella & Kevin's place in Woodstock. We'll be crashing here tonight. Snow's been falling outside for a while now. It's a beautiful sight. I wish it would actually snow every so often down in South GA... no such luck.
We just booked tickets to see Collin Quin (from Saturday Night Live) tomorrow night at The Punchline in Roswell, so we're psyched about that. The plan for tomorrow is to sleep in... then take in a matinee movie at the Hollywood 24 in Chamblee. Registration for the reading conference begins tomorrow night at 5:00. After that, we'll be heading over to the show.
Also talked to Matt and Jimmy this afternoon. "Southern Trail" is scheduled to record our first demo cd this coming Friday. Unexpectedly quick, but awesome... I'm really looking forward to it. It's great to be in a band again.
Wednesday * 02/08/06 * 9:13 p.m.
My daily exploits as of late have kept me from updating as I would've otherwise intended. The Atlanta trip I was on at the time of my last post went really well. It was cool to see lots of familiar faces at Snellville Middle- especially with looks of total surprise. I had only contacted a few of the teachers and students I knew from last year, so it was pretty much an unexpected drop-in. Cliff and I met for lunch at Picadilly down on North Druid Hills close to his office. We talked politics, the insolence of Iran (and Islam itself for that matter), and his upcoming wedding this December. It's always good to get the two of us together and shoot the breeze of days gone by. A good bit of the trip was spent in Athens. I got to see my old principal- Dwight Manzy- at his new school. Also there is a good friend of mine from the Monroe Elementary days- Kyle Kirk. He, his wife Jessica, and baby "Maddi" met up with me, Marlana, Staci, and Martha at the Cracker Barrel that Saturday morning. That turned out to be a lot of fun. We hadn't been together to hang out like that in two years.
The past few days have been hectic, comical, and generally productive. I locked myself out of the house the other morning- on one of the coldest mornings we'd had in quite some time, too, of course. That gave that much needed dose of mild drama to kick off the brisk winter day. On my way in Saturday night, I approached and apparently enraged a hummingbird that was hovering and flailing around in my carport. I thought I'd never make it inside. Every time I'd inch toward the door, the stupid thing would divebomb me. So... you know, those little movie-like moments just keep a-rollin' for me. It keeps things interesting, though.
News about my musical endeavors... I'm now officially the bassist for a band we've just renamed "Southern Trail." Southern Trail- because it's the name of the road that Jimmy lives on where we always practice plus the whole southern rock thing that we've got going on. This group consists of:
Matt Key (Vocals / Guitar) Logan McLean (Lead Guitar)
Jimmy Whitfield (Drums) Scott Turner (Bass)
The remnant of Grace In Failure is also picking up the pieces. Eric, Jstn, and I practiced a couple weeks ago. We're taking a new direction under a new name as well- "Gunboat Diplomacy." We'll be trying to pull this off most likely as a three-piece with (my cousin) Eric Lawson playing his new drums, Justin Hill on guitar, and me on bass / vocals. From the way things seemed last practice, we'll probably be doing a totally new thing this time around. We plan to cover some Sebadoh, Bush, Love Battery, Offspring, etc... Eclectic, driving rock n' roll. I'm excited about it. So much so that I recently purchased my dream guitar- the Rickenbacker 4003 Jetglo Bass (pictured below). I'll close on that note. I still have a good bit to do before calling it a night.
View details here.
Friday * 01/27/06 * 9:59 a.m.
Heather and I made it up to Atlanta last night. I was supposed to be hanging out with Otis and crashing at his place, but we found out at the last minute that he couldn't get out of work. So, I stayed at Aunt Wanda's last night here in Loganville. I'm about to head out and "see" people. First stop is my old school- Snellville Middle. From there, I'm driving down into ATL and meeting Cliff, my old roommate, for lunch and hitting up Guitar Center. Next stop Athens. I plan to drop in on my principal from the Monroe Elementary days at his new school just to say hey. Finally, tonight a lot of the family is meeting in Winder for my cousin Haley's Homecoming Court Ceremony. Should be a fun day...
Wednesday * 01/11/06 * 2:47 p.m.
The first entry of yet another year... This website turns 5 in 2006. Now, there's a crazy thought. Scary in many respects. Sometimes I can't believe how fast time has gone by. Originally, my measuring stick was to say "since high school." Of-course, this year marks the 10 year anniversary of my graduation. Now, it even seems hard to believe how much time has passed since I began my career. I've already been teaching six years:
School Year: Location:
2000-2001 Williams Middle School | Moultrie | 8th grade Interrelated Sp. Ed.
2001-2004 Monroe Elementary School | Monroe, GA | 4th grade
2004-2005 Snellville Middle School | Snellville, GA | 6th grade LA & SS
2005-2006 C.A. Gray Middle School | Moultrie | 8th grade LA
So... The primary thing going on right now is waiting for final confirmation on my Master's degree. I am 'any second away' from getting the official announcement from my professor that my final portfolio met the scoring standards. Once that happens, I'll be able to pass that info. along to the central office and get everything finalized on my certificate and salary profile. In related news, the University of GA has just instituted an Educational Specialist degree for people with backgrounds in Reading and Literacy. If everything pans out, it may be that I take that track for my Ed. S. If so, I'll be able to go through the program with my mom. She's about ready to go back to school, too. That would be an ideal scenario.
We're practicing tonight at Jimmy's. I've been working a lot more on the bass here lately trying to better my fretboard knowledge and pick up these new songs. Tomorrow night, Grace In Failure is supposed to get together for the first time in I honestly can't remember at Jstn's. Our plan is to work those final songs that we wrote together back up so that we can record them in the near future- before they're lost forever. I'm looking forward to both of these sessions.
That's about it for now. Look for a few new things around the page in the coming weeks. I still have several ideas I want to work on- just haven't had (or made) the time. Take care.
THOUGHTS ARCHIVE
June 2005-January 2006 |
June 2004-May 2005 |
June 2003-May 2004
January 2003-May 2003 |
July 2002-January 2003 |
January 2002-July 2002
