Usually when I write these blogs, I play some sort of music in the background. It could range from Pearl Jam and Smashing Pumpkins to Zepellin...to even the Eagles. It just depends on what kind of mood I am in. Tonight, I have two little girls playing Rock Band in the background. I'm pretty sure they just did "The Joker," by The Steve Miller Band. Emmamonster is on vocals and she keeps saying Morris instead of Maurice......I've also heard Blondie's "One way or another" sixteen times. My ears are bleeding.
I lost my wallet over Christmas. There is nothing more excruciating than going thru your own garbage looking for your wallet. I got up first thing this morning and called the DMV to order a new license....called my bank to cancel my cards, and was worried sick about the loss of both my UTC ID and my Social Security Card...oh, and the $120 that was inside it.....To ensure the safety of everyone around me, after the search was called off, I went to bed. It was 824pm
Bonnie smacked me on top of the head this morning to tell me that my Nana had my wallet and for me to drive my butt to Cleveland and get the loot. It was the happiest Ive ever been to see those ridiculous Fireworks stores as you enter Clevegas. My sweet Nana had it the whole time. Unfortunately, when I called her last night, she was unable to find it. 12 hours later and I was awash in goodness. So, who wants to buy an ID of a 34 year old man???? I don't think I have any underage folks out there, so I have an extra.
Ok...my kid is butchering Linkin Park now....ouch. "What I've Done" has never been so bad. The cool thing is that they are having a ball and that makes up for the tone deafness drowning out all sound in my home.
I got to hook up with an old...dear friend Christmas Eve. Everyone has that friend that you have known since you were crapping your diapers, right? Well, Justin is that guy. I have always looked up to him. He was the coolest cat I have ever met, and still is. I have never been around anyone that just.....bleeds personality. Growing up, he was always dating one hottie after another and is still the only person on earth that can make me spew beverage out my nose from laughing. We had a falling out years ago and officially kissed and hugged...no really, we kissed and hugged and made up. That made my Christmas worthwile.
I had two good cries this past week as well. Man, you feel so much better after snotting all over yourself. Those that know me can probably guess what made me boo hoo, but I think if everyone had a good cry now and again, they would probably be better off.
Oh...they are playing "Beat It" by MJ now.....I think Im going to stroke out at any point. Now, I understand why my parents barricaded themselves in their bedroom whenever I had friends over. Of course, instead of playing Rock Band, I was actually playing my record player, yes, I'm that old to have had a stereo with a record player. My mom actually whipped my butt for playing Poison's, "Talk Dirty to Me" in the 7th grade. "Down in the basement, lock the cellar door, and baby....talk dirty to me" What was her problem, she listened to Elvis.
Some quick notables......My cousin whipped me again in Fantasy Football..and I hate his guts. I'm going to burn his house down. Gas or Kerosene????
My sister has cut all her hair off for Locks for Love...I think that is pretty cool. Steph has always it seems to had long hair, so to cut it all off was definetely an act of selflessness.
I got both underwear...and more pajama pants from my Nana. I assume she thinks I throw out my panties after every use. I dunno, I have more undies than channels on my TV...so that is about 400. If anyone is an XXL and needs some boxers, let me know.
School starts back next Monday, and I am going to take 20 hours....yeah...that's right. I'm an idiot. My ego starts thinking that I'm Einstein and that I will breeze through it. The early betting is that I drop two classes within two weeks....but I'm going to hold out as long as I can. We shall see.
In closing, it was great to see old friends and family...both related and not related...(Shout out to my second mom) I can only hope that everyone had the opportunity to get caught up with loved ones. Right now, I am being summoned. I have waited all night to be able to make Don Henley look silly with my bangin version of "Hotel California." Clay has left the building. Happy New Year!!!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Zach Wamp and Xmas Shopping...
Bonnie and I ventured out into the bizarre and sometimes violent world of......Christmas shopping. First stop....Hamilton Place Mall.
220pm- Ok, this sucks. I have wasted $20 worth of gas driving around looking for a parking space and it's raining hard. It was so long ago when I dropped Bonnie off at the front entrance that she probably won't remember me when she sees me again. Some guy just cut me off and then waved at me, like I let him. I'm wondering how much bail would be for me to beat this guy senseless...Yay for Xmas!!!!
305pm- I don't know how much more I "time killing" I can do. I feel stupid. Bonnie is dealing with the herd's of women shopping in Dillard's. I can't go in there because it stinks. The combination of body odor and perfume is lethal....makes my gag reflex happen. uck
320pm- United States Congressman Zach Wamp just walked by me. I was about to say something to him (I'm a fan) but really didn't have anything prepared. What was strange about it was that either no one recognized or knew him, or just didn't care. This guy is basically the highest ranking elected official around here. Suddenly, the sad statistic comes to mind....only about 50% of our population vote.
350pm- We are out of here. It's raining even harder and traffic is lunacy. I feel like a fighter pilot. I pretend that I get to shoot sidewinder missiles and my machine guns everytime some car darts in front of me. So far, snoopy would be proud...I am the Red Baron.
355pm- Still in the Hamilton Place parking lot. Next stop, Books-A-Million...more like a thousand.
420- just spend 30 minutes in car for 1.1 mile. I wonder how long it would have taken us to have walked it instead. Nah, anyone dumb enough to walk around in this crap is just asking to be a hood ornament.
430- I love to give books for gifts. It's just my thing, I guess.. I like to pick a specific book for specific people. I try to match a person to a book....or if I know what they like, I might go with that theme. To me, books are collectibles. If you have bookcases and shelves and organized them like me, then you understand..if not, then you think Im a geek.
445- Man, there are a lot of books out about President elect Obama. I didn't know he'd done anything yet. Shouldn't a biography be written after someone does something...like be President. Think about all the folks that wrote stuff on "W" right after 9/11...whoops, there was more after that, huh?
500- Safely back home. We decided too skip several planned stops. It was getting too risky and Bonnie has a keen sense when I'm going to start cussing, so we bailed. If you want to see the true spirit of Christmas, go to a church or a party. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES GO TO A MALL!!! Here endeth the lesson.
220pm- Ok, this sucks. I have wasted $20 worth of gas driving around looking for a parking space and it's raining hard. It was so long ago when I dropped Bonnie off at the front entrance that she probably won't remember me when she sees me again. Some guy just cut me off and then waved at me, like I let him. I'm wondering how much bail would be for me to beat this guy senseless...Yay for Xmas!!!!
305pm- I don't know how much more I "time killing" I can do. I feel stupid. Bonnie is dealing with the herd's of women shopping in Dillard's. I can't go in there because it stinks. The combination of body odor and perfume is lethal....makes my gag reflex happen. uck
320pm- United States Congressman Zach Wamp just walked by me. I was about to say something to him (I'm a fan) but really didn't have anything prepared. What was strange about it was that either no one recognized or knew him, or just didn't care. This guy is basically the highest ranking elected official around here. Suddenly, the sad statistic comes to mind....only about 50% of our population vote.
350pm- We are out of here. It's raining even harder and traffic is lunacy. I feel like a fighter pilot. I pretend that I get to shoot sidewinder missiles and my machine guns everytime some car darts in front of me. So far, snoopy would be proud...I am the Red Baron.
355pm- Still in the Hamilton Place parking lot. Next stop, Books-A-Million...more like a thousand.
420- just spend 30 minutes in car for 1.1 mile. I wonder how long it would have taken us to have walked it instead. Nah, anyone dumb enough to walk around in this crap is just asking to be a hood ornament.
430- I love to give books for gifts. It's just my thing, I guess.. I like to pick a specific book for specific people. I try to match a person to a book....or if I know what they like, I might go with that theme. To me, books are collectibles. If you have bookcases and shelves and organized them like me, then you understand..if not, then you think Im a geek.
445- Man, there are a lot of books out about President elect Obama. I didn't know he'd done anything yet. Shouldn't a biography be written after someone does something...like be President. Think about all the folks that wrote stuff on "W" right after 9/11...whoops, there was more after that, huh?
500- Safely back home. We decided too skip several planned stops. It was getting too risky and Bonnie has a keen sense when I'm going to start cussing, so we bailed. If you want to see the true spirit of Christmas, go to a church or a party. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES GO TO A MALL!!! Here endeth the lesson.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
can't sleep....
Weird day.....had to have an epidural for the disc problem in my back. It was like going through a drive thru at McDonalds. The nurses were awesome. I got stuck 3 different times, including an IV and I was chatting it up the whole time and didn't feel a thing. This is a big deal because I'm a baby when it comes to needles and blood. I've nearly passed out a few times. Total wuss.
Anyhooo.....they flip me on my stomach, give me this wonderful drug call Fentinyl (sp) to sedate me....and yes, I did have a nice ride on the great space coaster if you catch my drift......I was high as a kite...sorry.
My doctor walks in like he's looking for a push cart at Walmart. He was like..."Uh, can we get this guy done, I want to go to Hooters for lunch." The good Dr. White takes a needle that looked like a sharpened baseball bat, and proceeded to stick it into my spine...right into the base of my back. Yeah, that sounds scary as hell, and that is why they got me high. I never felt a thing. Wow...modern medicine is sweet. Now if we could just see to it that EVERYONE gets the same treatment. Experiences like today remind me of how lucky it is to have someone else paying the freight for Dr. White and his team of supernurses.
In other news...it is only 8 days until Xmas. It seems my house will be full of both family and friends. Since Steph lives in Cali now, it's a big deal to get together. I took that for granted I think. Xmas Eve night, my posse is going to hook up with more family, which I can't wait. Im probably going to end up laughing til I puke.
Christmas is a weird time for me. Since my mom died, our birthday's (mom and son born on same day....pretty cool) and Christmas are the only times I seem to get emotional. Lots of triggers and fond memories can tear (as in ear) me up once that tree goes up. I miss my Mom.
Emma is all over me about "Rock Band" for Christmas.....I have found myself surrounded by strong women (Bonnie,Steph, Aunt Jane, Nana) and little Emma seems like she is headed that direction. I think she knows Im gonna spoil her a little bit...I think she's seen my hand. Not sure how to handle that one to be honest. Im a Daddy you know, I like to see her smile and then give me a hug.....what am I supposed to do? So, maybe my intentions are a little self-serving if I spoil her....sue me.
It's almost 3 am and Im wide awake. In the mental health world....what you have here is called "mania" for a bipolar person....or so I've heard. It's a really unique feeling. You feel tired, but not sleepy. You get this burst of energy..and it goes in every direction. For example, I will have done a full week of laundry, cleaned the den, written a blog, and paid some bills during this time. I usually hit the wall about 2pm, so the last part of the day, I'm ready to take a nap. So the insomnia is an issue, probably the biggest problem with my brand of bipolar. That all being said, it is best that I am alone when I feel this way. I become more sensitive...insecure...even a little paranoid sometimes. If you know me well and say to yourself "what is Clay's deal?" then I'm probably having one of these "spells"or whatever. In my teen's I think I would have a spell two or three times a day, which in hindsight was really bad. My twenties were a blur, so Im unsure, but frequent. Now, maybe once a week. The only good thing is that I can usually feel the anxiety and all that welling up and take a "chill pill" and adapt to what's going on around me. Some deep breaths and Im good. The point is that my temper is up and my tongue is quick, and Im a complete ass. So there, if you've read this and feel the same way, call Dr. I.P. Freeley for a free consultation.
Im going to a party Saturday night in Cleveland. I'm going to be mingling with folks I haven't seen since high school. Im a little nervous. I'm always thinking that I've been mean to someone I meet from back then. Insecurity is a real pain.
Well, that's it. I gotta go turn over some clothes...it's 3:02....my sister just sent me a text message. It's just midnight where she is....hmm.
Anyhooo.....they flip me on my stomach, give me this wonderful drug call Fentinyl (sp) to sedate me....and yes, I did have a nice ride on the great space coaster if you catch my drift......I was high as a kite...sorry.
My doctor walks in like he's looking for a push cart at Walmart. He was like..."Uh, can we get this guy done, I want to go to Hooters for lunch." The good Dr. White takes a needle that looked like a sharpened baseball bat, and proceeded to stick it into my spine...right into the base of my back. Yeah, that sounds scary as hell, and that is why they got me high. I never felt a thing. Wow...modern medicine is sweet. Now if we could just see to it that EVERYONE gets the same treatment. Experiences like today remind me of how lucky it is to have someone else paying the freight for Dr. White and his team of supernurses.
In other news...it is only 8 days until Xmas. It seems my house will be full of both family and friends. Since Steph lives in Cali now, it's a big deal to get together. I took that for granted I think. Xmas Eve night, my posse is going to hook up with more family, which I can't wait. Im probably going to end up laughing til I puke.
Christmas is a weird time for me. Since my mom died, our birthday's (mom and son born on same day....pretty cool) and Christmas are the only times I seem to get emotional. Lots of triggers and fond memories can tear (as in ear) me up once that tree goes up. I miss my Mom.
Emma is all over me about "Rock Band" for Christmas.....I have found myself surrounded by strong women (Bonnie,Steph, Aunt Jane, Nana) and little Emma seems like she is headed that direction. I think she knows Im gonna spoil her a little bit...I think she's seen my hand. Not sure how to handle that one to be honest. Im a Daddy you know, I like to see her smile and then give me a hug.....what am I supposed to do? So, maybe my intentions are a little self-serving if I spoil her....sue me.
It's almost 3 am and Im wide awake. In the mental health world....what you have here is called "mania" for a bipolar person....or so I've heard. It's a really unique feeling. You feel tired, but not sleepy. You get this burst of energy..and it goes in every direction. For example, I will have done a full week of laundry, cleaned the den, written a blog, and paid some bills during this time. I usually hit the wall about 2pm, so the last part of the day, I'm ready to take a nap. So the insomnia is an issue, probably the biggest problem with my brand of bipolar. That all being said, it is best that I am alone when I feel this way. I become more sensitive...insecure...even a little paranoid sometimes. If you know me well and say to yourself "what is Clay's deal?" then I'm probably having one of these "spells"or whatever. In my teen's I think I would have a spell two or three times a day, which in hindsight was really bad. My twenties were a blur, so Im unsure, but frequent. Now, maybe once a week. The only good thing is that I can usually feel the anxiety and all that welling up and take a "chill pill" and adapt to what's going on around me. Some deep breaths and Im good. The point is that my temper is up and my tongue is quick, and Im a complete ass. So there, if you've read this and feel the same way, call Dr. I.P. Freeley for a free consultation.
Im going to a party Saturday night in Cleveland. I'm going to be mingling with folks I haven't seen since high school. Im a little nervous. I'm always thinking that I've been mean to someone I meet from back then. Insecurity is a real pain.
Well, that's it. I gotta go turn over some clothes...it's 3:02....my sister just sent me a text message. It's just midnight where she is....hmm.
Can I finally win????
You know the old line that says, "two things are sure in life, death and taxes?" I want to add to that. I can't beat my cousin David in anything. It's a streak that has lasted the better portion of 34 years. When I say anything, I have to clarify.
I've won plenty of driveway basketball games one on one. I played organized basketball and was a little bigger, so I can't put much stock in that. We only met on the tennis court once, and even though it was doubles, I still lost when it counted. I racked up my victories "when the camera's were off, you could say." By that rationale, I was better at practice.
He's also dominated me in anything that requires intelligence and cleverness, and that really pisses me off. See, if I was to be asked what my weaknesses were, I'd say that I was impatient, moody, and conceited about how smart I think I am. I'm sure those that are reading this are filling in the blanks with different words, some four lettered even.
I have a legit IQ and fancy myself pretty smart. My sister once coined me with the term "evil genius." What she means is that I know a lot, but most of the time I have used the talent GOD gave me to serve myself, even if it hurt others. David is every bit my equal as far as IQ point and his intelligence. He's a Civil Engineer..not too shabby. As a matter of fact, David is, I think a little bit smarter than me. He has patience and from a distance I think David lives life like playing Chess...and I mean "Rain Man" like Chess. He's a bright guy and I look up to him, but 34 years of beating me up is enough.
David and I find ourselves going against each other in the Championship Finals of Fantasy Football. Those that do not know or were unaware, I play fantasy football and I'm very competitive at it. ***I know ladies, it's extremely unattractive that guys play "pretend" football based on numbers and crap. That we actually act like owners of a team****
You gotta know David. He's the one in the room that you might overlook because he is quiet and unassuming. He's very smart, but humble. He'd rather be anonymous. I used to think that because he wasn't emotional and demonstrative like me, he was weaker or didn't care. That's not the case. He's just thinking, setting up the Queen...then the rook...then checkmate. I don't get along with him as much as I should. Sometimes, I get insecure and think that he's embarrassed of me, but I know that's not true. Even after the battles in the past and the ones to come, I love him, and I'm very proud of him as a person. He is a good man. yeah.....
Me and CousinDave.....He's kicked my butt at everything from Atari to Mario Brothers. When you have a first cousin and he's a electronics fan, you get to play a lot of XBOX or PlayStation. David used to whip me on a Commodore. for crying out loud. I'm not exaggerating. I have never beaten him at anything like this before. I mean even if I win, it only proves that I got lucky. See, you have to beat someone twice for it not to be a fluke, but I'd take it.
Well, we aren't playing each other for money, or a trophy....just for kicks. If I was him, I would probably be pretty confident. For some reason, I have had a curse put on me. My nemesis is also my family. I really want to win...just this one.
I've won plenty of driveway basketball games one on one. I played organized basketball and was a little bigger, so I can't put much stock in that. We only met on the tennis court once, and even though it was doubles, I still lost when it counted. I racked up my victories "when the camera's were off, you could say." By that rationale, I was better at practice.
He's also dominated me in anything that requires intelligence and cleverness, and that really pisses me off. See, if I was to be asked what my weaknesses were, I'd say that I was impatient, moody, and conceited about how smart I think I am. I'm sure those that are reading this are filling in the blanks with different words, some four lettered even.
I have a legit IQ and fancy myself pretty smart. My sister once coined me with the term "evil genius." What she means is that I know a lot, but most of the time I have used the talent GOD gave me to serve myself, even if it hurt others. David is every bit my equal as far as IQ point and his intelligence. He's a Civil Engineer..not too shabby. As a matter of fact, David is, I think a little bit smarter than me. He has patience and from a distance I think David lives life like playing Chess...and I mean "Rain Man" like Chess. He's a bright guy and I look up to him, but 34 years of beating me up is enough.
David and I find ourselves going against each other in the Championship Finals of Fantasy Football. Those that do not know or were unaware, I play fantasy football and I'm very competitive at it. ***I know ladies, it's extremely unattractive that guys play "pretend" football based on numbers and crap. That we actually act like owners of a team****
You gotta know David. He's the one in the room that you might overlook because he is quiet and unassuming. He's very smart, but humble. He'd rather be anonymous. I used to think that because he wasn't emotional and demonstrative like me, he was weaker or didn't care. That's not the case. He's just thinking, setting up the Queen...then the rook...then checkmate. I don't get along with him as much as I should. Sometimes, I get insecure and think that he's embarrassed of me, but I know that's not true. Even after the battles in the past and the ones to come, I love him, and I'm very proud of him as a person. He is a good man. yeah.....
Me and CousinDave.....He's kicked my butt at everything from Atari to Mario Brothers. When you have a first cousin and he's a electronics fan, you get to play a lot of XBOX or PlayStation. David used to whip me on a Commodore. for crying out loud. I'm not exaggerating. I have never beaten him at anything like this before. I mean even if I win, it only proves that I got lucky. See, you have to beat someone twice for it not to be a fluke, but I'd take it.
Well, we aren't playing each other for money, or a trophy....just for kicks. If I was him, I would probably be pretty confident. For some reason, I have had a curse put on me. My nemesis is also my family. I really want to win...just this one.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Movie Review- "Quantum of Solace"
Ok, let's be honest, there are a few guys out there...that I might have a slight man-crush on. Personally, if I was in the room with "James Bond," I probably would act quite silly. Bond has been played by..in order, Sean Connery (the coolest Bond) George Lazenby (in one movie, so let's move on) Roger Moore (Octopussy anyone?)Timothy Dalton(I won't even go there)(Pierce Brosnan(the smoothest one) and finaly Daniel Craig, who has been the dark and dangerous one.
Many of you have seen only a few of the many James Bond movies. Probably, most people would be able to quote the very funny "Austin Powers" flicks which were Bond spoofs, including Dr. Evil having a bald head and a hairless pet. Personally, I have not seen all 23 movies. "Goldfinger" is still my favorite, but I've probably seen 2/3's of them. Hey, there have been some really bad movies in the series, so it's not a given that a Bond flick is going to be good or not.
Well, the last two Bond flicks are totally different. Gone is the flash and dash of a typical Bond movie. Ya know, lots of shots of whoever Bond is without his shirt...lots of hot chicks that end up with Bond, and of course the gadgets. Who didn't want an Astin Martin with machine gun turrets and an oil slick...oh and the ejection passenger seat?
All that is gone. The once debonair James Bond is now raw and angry in "Quantum." Bond was in a chase with the following: boat, airplane, car, car, and finally on foot. The action starts right after the opening theme (by Jack White and Alicia Keys), and does not stop to take a breath until the closing credits come down. The story starts exactly at the same time as the previous movie, "Casino Royale" ends, so if you have not seen (and you should be ashamed if you haven't) "Casino Royale," then please scroll down now and read another one of my blogs.
The movie is about vengeance, and Bond wants some. He is trying to hunt down the persons responsible for the death of "Vesper" from "Casino," the problem is that his own government wants to shut him down. The moments that Judi Dench and Craig parry with each other is always amusing. "M" tells him basically she's tired of him killing everyone he sees, Bond shruggs it off and says "yes mum" or whatever. Hey, the guy has a License to Kill, so why bother debating or negotiating, just kill em.
It's a summer flick in the winter in my opinion. The special effects were really good and the plot was somewhat believeable and moved briskly. I was entertained. I'd see it again. A-
Many of you have seen only a few of the many James Bond movies. Probably, most people would be able to quote the very funny "Austin Powers" flicks which were Bond spoofs, including Dr. Evil having a bald head and a hairless pet. Personally, I have not seen all 23 movies. "Goldfinger" is still my favorite, but I've probably seen 2/3's of them. Hey, there have been some really bad movies in the series, so it's not a given that a Bond flick is going to be good or not.
Well, the last two Bond flicks are totally different. Gone is the flash and dash of a typical Bond movie. Ya know, lots of shots of whoever Bond is without his shirt...lots of hot chicks that end up with Bond, and of course the gadgets. Who didn't want an Astin Martin with machine gun turrets and an oil slick...oh and the ejection passenger seat?
All that is gone. The once debonair James Bond is now raw and angry in "Quantum." Bond was in a chase with the following: boat, airplane, car, car, and finally on foot. The action starts right after the opening theme (by Jack White and Alicia Keys), and does not stop to take a breath until the closing credits come down. The story starts exactly at the same time as the previous movie, "Casino Royale" ends, so if you have not seen (and you should be ashamed if you haven't) "Casino Royale," then please scroll down now and read another one of my blogs.
The movie is about vengeance, and Bond wants some. He is trying to hunt down the persons responsible for the death of "Vesper" from "Casino," the problem is that his own government wants to shut him down. The moments that Judi Dench and Craig parry with each other is always amusing. "M" tells him basically she's tired of him killing everyone he sees, Bond shruggs it off and says "yes mum" or whatever. Hey, the guy has a License to Kill, so why bother debating or negotiating, just kill em.
It's a summer flick in the winter in my opinion. The special effects were really good and the plot was somewhat believeable and moved briskly. I was entertained. I'd see it again. A-
Some thoughts.....
My little Emmamonster will be here in two weeks for Christmas. That is something I'm really looking forward to. She told me on the phone today that she wants "Rock Band." It's my fault really, I got her started on "Guitar Hero," and she thinks she's Joan Jett. Anyway, I happen to fall into a pit of stupidity and mentioned what "Rock Band" was. I'm just that dumb, I guess.
For those that did not know, Bonnie and I got "lucky" and was able to go to the Alabama/Auburn game. My Tide shut them out 36-0, and I was levatating to my car. It's amazing how as a person, you can grab onto something as trivial as college football, but me completely compassionate about it. I know some Vol fans that read this and you know what I'm talking about. My neighbor told me that he got depressed halfway through UT's season and just stopped watching football altegother. Someone create Zoloft for the avid sports fan. We need it.
What can you say about Christmas? Halloween is my favorite holiday for some reason because Christmas is kinda scary. Lots of emotions well up..some good and warm, some sad and chilly. My sister will be here for Christmas, staying a night or two with us and we don't even have to look at each other to know what we are thinking, which is cool because we will have fun instead of being bummed out and talking about the past. Her and her hubby are going to get DESTROYED at Cranium..and any other challenge that uses your wit. I am the Man!
For those that USED to ready my movie reviews, I am sorry, but I have fallen behind. "Four Christmasses" and "Quantam of Solace" are a couple of flicks I've seen.
I am so bored! I haven't done much at the Times lately and school is out. There is nothing to do. I'm happy to hear that I will have several projects that Bonnie would like for me to do. Do any of us remember making funny of people that did a little too much decorating for Xmas? Well, I do. That being said, the decorations that I dread have made their way from the bowels of the basement and are looking at me....Oh, and we got the tree today. Nothing like driving down the road with a 7 foot Frazier Fir on your rooftop. I just love how the little needles are everywhere and I can't get this sap off my hand. merry christmas.
Oh, and my old 34 year old butt just made the Dean's List, and I think I could have done it blindfolded! Im just joking, essay questions suck.
I am certainly not looking forward to a little doctors office next week. I am getting an epidural. Yeah, the rest I do not fully understand, but the jist is that a large needle is going into or around a bulging disc I have. It is not a good sign when they tell you, "you will need someone to drive you home." WHAT??!!??! Im either going to be in such pain or my legs will be too numb for me to drive. You know, my back is feeling a lot better.
For those that did not know, Bonnie and I got "lucky" and was able to go to the Alabama/Auburn game. My Tide shut them out 36-0, and I was levatating to my car. It's amazing how as a person, you can grab onto something as trivial as college football, but me completely compassionate about it. I know some Vol fans that read this and you know what I'm talking about. My neighbor told me that he got depressed halfway through UT's season and just stopped watching football altegother. Someone create Zoloft for the avid sports fan. We need it.
What can you say about Christmas? Halloween is my favorite holiday for some reason because Christmas is kinda scary. Lots of emotions well up..some good and warm, some sad and chilly. My sister will be here for Christmas, staying a night or two with us and we don't even have to look at each other to know what we are thinking, which is cool because we will have fun instead of being bummed out and talking about the past. Her and her hubby are going to get DESTROYED at Cranium..and any other challenge that uses your wit. I am the Man!
For those that USED to ready my movie reviews, I am sorry, but I have fallen behind. "Four Christmasses" and "Quantam of Solace" are a couple of flicks I've seen.
I am so bored! I haven't done much at the Times lately and school is out. There is nothing to do. I'm happy to hear that I will have several projects that Bonnie would like for me to do. Do any of us remember making funny of people that did a little too much decorating for Xmas? Well, I do. That being said, the decorations that I dread have made their way from the bowels of the basement and are looking at me....Oh, and we got the tree today. Nothing like driving down the road with a 7 foot Frazier Fir on your rooftop. I just love how the little needles are everywhere and I can't get this sap off my hand. merry christmas.
Oh, and my old 34 year old butt just made the Dean's List, and I think I could have done it blindfolded! Im just joking, essay questions suck.
I am certainly not looking forward to a little doctors office next week. I am getting an epidural. Yeah, the rest I do not fully understand, but the jist is that a large needle is going into or around a bulging disc I have. It is not a good sign when they tell you, "you will need someone to drive you home." WHAT??!!??! Im either going to be in such pain or my legs will be too numb for me to drive. You know, my back is feeling a lot better.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Perspective....
I just got back from voluteering for Project Homeless. It's a very worthy cause that offers many homeless or poor in Chattanooga and opportunity to recieve a good meal, medical attention, and many types of services ranging from Goodwill to help with those that are Veterans, but most of the people I spoke with today were just down on their luck.
See, this is the first time I've really done anything more than drop change in the Salvation Army bucket in a long time. I was responsible for giving out bus passes. I have never rode the bus in and around Chattanooga, but after I gave out 235 bus passes I now understand how important they were. One person that I had a chance to meet was named Percy. Percy has been homeless or near homeless since 1984. I asked him why he was homeless, why couldn't he find work. Percy seemed like very capable and was articulate. What he told me chilled me to the bone and really made me think. Percy said, "Mr Clay, I can't read or write, and I have AIDS, who is going to hire me?" I was speechless. I had no answer for him. He went on to tell me that the used to be a drug user and that was how he contracted AIDS and that his parents took him out of school when he was 13 to work. I asked why he hadn't learned how to read and he told me that "letters look funny to me and I could never figure it out." I assume he was dyslexic (sp) Percy then whispered to me if he could have an extra bus pass. I ended up giving him three.
As I sat behind a table on my fleshy behind one poor soul after another came to me for their bus pass. The odd thing was that it seemed like every one of them had a smile on their face. What in the world did they have to smile about?? I finally figured it out. They were happy to be treated as as human beings. Some got haircuts and fresh clothing. Some got medical attention and dental work while they were there. Some even got job interviews from different companies like Krystal and McDonalds right there. Some just got a hot meal from catered my Macaroni Grill and Chili's. I was dumbstruck. Here I have been bitching and moaning about my exams coming up and these folks were thrilled to death to get a new toothbrush and a haircut.
I don't know whether for feel good about what I just did or feel even worse because I don't do more. I'm confused. I guess I feel a little bit of both. I was able to make a few people laugh and those bus passes were like hundred dollar bills, but I definetely should do more. I know first hand what it is like to an inch from homeless. I know what it is like to feel like I'm not a member of society. I was very lucky that my Aunt Jane, Uncle Percy, and Cousin Dave helped me out. That is not to mention the fact that my best friend in all the world stood behind me when I hit rock bottom. He got me to drop the shovel. I have to tell you friends, it took a lot of digging and a lot of apologies to finally pull out of the muck and mire, but it is possible.
The only advice that I could give Percy was to hang on and survive...that there would be opportunities for him somewhere down the line and to jump on it with both feet. The first thing I did was offer my services and teach him how to read. It's the best I could do. Percy kind of shrugged like it was a lost cause. I gave him my phone number. I hope he calls.
The website is Project.Homeless.com.
See, this is the first time I've really done anything more than drop change in the Salvation Army bucket in a long time. I was responsible for giving out bus passes. I have never rode the bus in and around Chattanooga, but after I gave out 235 bus passes I now understand how important they were. One person that I had a chance to meet was named Percy. Percy has been homeless or near homeless since 1984. I asked him why he was homeless, why couldn't he find work. Percy seemed like very capable and was articulate. What he told me chilled me to the bone and really made me think. Percy said, "Mr Clay, I can't read or write, and I have AIDS, who is going to hire me?" I was speechless. I had no answer for him. He went on to tell me that the used to be a drug user and that was how he contracted AIDS and that his parents took him out of school when he was 13 to work. I asked why he hadn't learned how to read and he told me that "letters look funny to me and I could never figure it out." I assume he was dyslexic (sp) Percy then whispered to me if he could have an extra bus pass. I ended up giving him three.
As I sat behind a table on my fleshy behind one poor soul after another came to me for their bus pass. The odd thing was that it seemed like every one of them had a smile on their face. What in the world did they have to smile about?? I finally figured it out. They were happy to be treated as as human beings. Some got haircuts and fresh clothing. Some got medical attention and dental work while they were there. Some even got job interviews from different companies like Krystal and McDonalds right there. Some just got a hot meal from catered my Macaroni Grill and Chili's. I was dumbstruck. Here I have been bitching and moaning about my exams coming up and these folks were thrilled to death to get a new toothbrush and a haircut.
I don't know whether for feel good about what I just did or feel even worse because I don't do more. I'm confused. I guess I feel a little bit of both. I was able to make a few people laugh and those bus passes were like hundred dollar bills, but I definetely should do more. I know first hand what it is like to an inch from homeless. I know what it is like to feel like I'm not a member of society. I was very lucky that my Aunt Jane, Uncle Percy, and Cousin Dave helped me out. That is not to mention the fact that my best friend in all the world stood behind me when I hit rock bottom. He got me to drop the shovel. I have to tell you friends, it took a lot of digging and a lot of apologies to finally pull out of the muck and mire, but it is possible.
The only advice that I could give Percy was to hang on and survive...that there would be opportunities for him somewhere down the line and to jump on it with both feet. The first thing I did was offer my services and teach him how to read. It's the best I could do. Percy kind of shrugged like it was a lost cause. I gave him my phone number. I hope he calls.
The website is Project.Homeless.com.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
I think Im a member of a Cult...and other observations.
Being an Alabama fan means a little bit more to me than most other members of the 'Nation. A few examples if I could:
1- I own 9 different Alabama Hats
2- I own Bama glassware as well as a coozie
3- I have 14 shot glasses that represent either the state or the University
4- I cried before and after the National Anthem was played this past week again Auburn.
5- 3 Jerseys
6- I don't just talk to the TV during a game...I ask it questions.
7- I have taught my daughter to say "Roll Tide" upon request.
8- I am a member or 4 different sites dedicated to Alabama sports
9- Yes....I have car flags and magnets
10- Someday very soon, my love and I are headed to Tuscaloosa to complete our education.
**Does this sound like a normal person...or someone in a trance..or even a cult?** Either way, I don't care. We are 12-0 baby....whoo hoooo. Sick, just sick.
Taking a break from Finals right now. My brain aches. Ive revised one paper, rewritten another, and flat out created one more for extra credit. All told.....24 sheets of paper, and nearly 5,000 words. The worst part is I have today and tomorrow to cram for two other classes...and have one more paper to write. Ugh.
My 80 something year old Nana continues to amaze me. She decided at the last minute to whip up a Thanksgiving dinner for my brood, and then kept the Emmamonster overnight this past Saturday. I think the Fountain of Youth is her bathroom sink.
My lil sis will be here with her new hubby in a couple of weeks and I am already trying to come up with a cocktail that will impress her. Also, there will be a cranium rematch between her and Evan and me and Bonnie. As you might expect, my team won the first time.
If you like thriller type books, check out "Divine Justice," by Daniel Baldacci. I got it on AudioBook and it's pretty good.
I must comment on Phat Fulmer's demise and the RISE of Lane Kiffin. This fire/hire is going to be a disaster. I can see Saban, Spurrier, and Urban Meyer licking their chops to get a hold on this 33 year old who has never coached in college before...nevermind the SEC.
My dad is a career loser. I mean if his life was parallel to a football team...he'd be Vanderbilt....without this season. Emma calls him twice over Thanksgiving and he can't put down his beer to call his only granddaughter. I know I can't stand the ass, but to ignore the most precious thing to ever grace his crappy life. Jeeez.
The Emmamonster has a new crush. She did have a little one on Brian Smith...aka...Weatherboy, but a new man has graced her little life....my friggin cousin David. You have got to be kidding me. Im not worried about them being cousins at this point..She is 8 you know, but anybody but CousinDave.
Fantasy Football alert....I finished in the playoffs for the 6 consecutive season and can advance to the finals with a win the next two weeks.
Bonnie has me not eating meat. I must be losing it completely. I do have to admit to the fact that the little fake burgers and chicken patties taste pretty much the same. Also, I have lost 6 pounds, so who knew.
Well, that's it for know. I know I have been slack in getting these put up, but duty calls. I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving. Ill be putting more up very soon. Roll Tide.
1- I own 9 different Alabama Hats
2- I own Bama glassware as well as a coozie
3- I have 14 shot glasses that represent either the state or the University
4- I cried before and after the National Anthem was played this past week again Auburn.
5- 3 Jerseys
6- I don't just talk to the TV during a game...I ask it questions.
7- I have taught my daughter to say "Roll Tide" upon request.
8- I am a member or 4 different sites dedicated to Alabama sports
9- Yes....I have car flags and magnets
10- Someday very soon, my love and I are headed to Tuscaloosa to complete our education.
**Does this sound like a normal person...or someone in a trance..or even a cult?** Either way, I don't care. We are 12-0 baby....whoo hoooo. Sick, just sick.
Taking a break from Finals right now. My brain aches. Ive revised one paper, rewritten another, and flat out created one more for extra credit. All told.....24 sheets of paper, and nearly 5,000 words. The worst part is I have today and tomorrow to cram for two other classes...and have one more paper to write. Ugh.
My 80 something year old Nana continues to amaze me. She decided at the last minute to whip up a Thanksgiving dinner for my brood, and then kept the Emmamonster overnight this past Saturday. I think the Fountain of Youth is her bathroom sink.
My lil sis will be here with her new hubby in a couple of weeks and I am already trying to come up with a cocktail that will impress her. Also, there will be a cranium rematch between her and Evan and me and Bonnie. As you might expect, my team won the first time.
If you like thriller type books, check out "Divine Justice," by Daniel Baldacci. I got it on AudioBook and it's pretty good.
I must comment on Phat Fulmer's demise and the RISE of Lane Kiffin. This fire/hire is going to be a disaster. I can see Saban, Spurrier, and Urban Meyer licking their chops to get a hold on this 33 year old who has never coached in college before...nevermind the SEC.
My dad is a career loser. I mean if his life was parallel to a football team...he'd be Vanderbilt....without this season. Emma calls him twice over Thanksgiving and he can't put down his beer to call his only granddaughter. I know I can't stand the ass, but to ignore the most precious thing to ever grace his crappy life. Jeeez.
The Emmamonster has a new crush. She did have a little one on Brian Smith...aka...Weatherboy, but a new man has graced her little life....my friggin cousin David. You have got to be kidding me. Im not worried about them being cousins at this point..She is 8 you know, but anybody but CousinDave.
Fantasy Football alert....I finished in the playoffs for the 6 consecutive season and can advance to the finals with a win the next two weeks.
Bonnie has me not eating meat. I must be losing it completely. I do have to admit to the fact that the little fake burgers and chicken patties taste pretty much the same. Also, I have lost 6 pounds, so who knew.
Well, that's it for know. I know I have been slack in getting these put up, but duty calls. I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving. Ill be putting more up very soon. Roll Tide.
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