Music Cures a Sorrow Filled Heart...

I feel it's time to talk about music. Music has played such an integral part of my life since 6th grade. The Christmas before my 12th birthday, I got 2 tapes from my brothers Dave & Doug. They were Midnight Oil Blue Sky Mining & The Fixx Walkabout. These have come to define me as a person. This was when people started dividing lines. At Bear River Middle School, it seems it was a lot worse than most place. (I don't know this for sure.) I got looped in with the outsiders. I was called KJQueer a lot because I listened to Alternative music. It sucked at the time. Looking back, I thank Mandee Williams for making me who I am. (But she can still rot in hell.) I learned about The Cure, Depeche Mode, INXS & many others. Grunge came around, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots. (I laugh seeing flannel popular again. Been there; done that.) Bands like Bad Religion & The Descendents, though I didn't know there name at the time, got me through some rough spots, Recipe for Hate & Somery

I was on the verge of my 10th grade year, summer of '94. That was the year Green Day Dookie & The Offspring Smash hit it. I was lucky enough to attend my first concert. R-A-M-O-N-E-S, RAMONES! (Thanks to my other bro Spencer for working for me. Otherwise this wouldn't have happened.) I was blown away. I was hooked. I wanted to learn & hear everything. Ask Dave & Doug, I was obsessed. I was lucky enough to share this with Dave, Doug, Rich, & Sharon. I can still see Blitzkrieg Bop in my head. First thing I needed was a leather jacket. That would make me punk rock. I didn't get that some 7 years later to go with the Ramones doo I was sporting. I've been lucky to see some amazing concerts or shows, I call them, in my lifetime. Most with Dave or Doug or both. Let's see... Decomposers, Surly, Tarn, Wormdrive, The Protocol, The Horns, Hot Rocks, Blackhole, Lunchbox, Chubby Amigos, Throwaway Generation (Find the Tomorrow's Too Late album & look for my name.) , Lunachicks, Diesel Boy, Strung Out, Bad Religion (Getting scolded for going to this one. Bernice was not happy.) The Donnas, Supersuckers, The Get Up Kids, Murder City Devils, Rocket from the Crypt (If you truly wanna see me happy, let me listen to RFTC.), Electric Frankenstein, The Dictators, The Real Kids, Syl Sylvain, The Night Marchers, The Ettes, Groovie Ghoulies, One Man Army, Zeke, REO Speedealer, Hot Water Music, Sunny Day Real Estate, Flogging Molly, The Pipettes, & many, many,many,many,many,many,many more. Ask me; I'll scene drop.

That same school year, I started to go to SLC a lot. AND I mean A LOT. There were 3 parts to going to SLC. Find a ride, ask Dave or Doug, & get Bernie to pick me up. I made it down once a month at least. The stars aligned quite a bit. I didn't have much money. I saved my lunch money Bernice would give me. I had enough to eat & hit the DIs. Usually, Dave or Doug, Chris & I would go to a couple of DIs after a breakfast at Kostas. They started collecting records. I was into finding the unusual hat. But eventually, I caught the bug. My first record was Twisted Sister & was purchased by Bernie in the old Logan DI. He bought most of my early collection. He, in fact, bought my copy of Ramones Rocket to Russia at the Ogden DI. I still collect to this day. I little less now, but look forward to the day where it will pick back up. I've now got approximately 1000 or so. I haven't counted in some time. The pic above is about 2/3s. Not pictured are the 45s (7"s) (I've 3-1/2 boxes full.), 10"s & about couple hundred LPs at the end of my bed.

The reason for the title of this blog... Music filled my heart & mind during my time of trouble. (You know what it is, if you know me.) My mind would race. Music settled both my heart & mind. Calmed them down to the point I could continue. I find myself thinking about how much music has meant to me. I've come to realize: MUSIC=LIFE. If I didn't have music, a BIG part of me will die.

There's a theme in this besides music. It's my brothers Dave & Doug

They, more than any one, have defined me as a person. I would not be who I am with out either of them. Music would not be engrained in me as it is. I love them dearly. I don't know what would've happened if they wouldn't have let me stay with them. Sadly, I do know, but I won't say. I appreciate what it more than words can say. I love them so much.

November... Where are August, September, & October?

With last night being Halloween & the night of the annual HOWL at Utah State, I've looked back on the last few months.  If you would've told me I'd be a freshman, I probably would've laughed at you.  I mean, I've thought about attending for sometime now, but the older I got; the more stuff, i.e. bills, I accrued.  Meaning I need money, but circumstances beyond my control have led me.  I think a lot about why I'm at Utah State.  I remember that fateful day in August like it was hours ago.  I can't help but think about it.  That morning about 4am, I thought, "I'm gonna go earn my 'A' on my license plate.  For those who don't know what that is, in Utah, you can support your university with a license plate.  Utah State's happens to have an 'A' on it.  I've stuck to my guns with this decision.  I will say it's a challenge.  I enjoy learning the various things I'm taking, but everything that goes along with this is mind boggling.  I've had to learn to take notes again, listen to the professor, study really more than I'd like, read everything, & a BIGGIE socialize with others.  Most of you may not think so, but I'm terribly shy.  I can't go up people & talk to them especially girls.  If you asked Bernice, I've been this way my whole life.  I will say I'm getting better at it.  If someone engages me, I'll talk back instead of giving them some body language & walking off.  Plus, imagine being 30 in a class of 18, 19, & 20 year olds.  The only thing in common is the fact we're freshmen.  I've got bigger problems than why Johnny didn't call me back.  Like, where I'm gonna pull my car payment out of.  I've made a few friends along the way.  Don't get me wrong, there are like minded people where ever you go.  I've involved myself with a few things as well.  I find myself in the Women Resource Center/ Veterans Resource Center/ Re-Entry Student Center.  There, I find some good people.  I've also met many just "loitering".  I am part of one group.  It's the Student Advisory Board (SAB).  I'm the Re-Entry Student rep.  Meeting once a month to discuss issues across campus among many different & diverse groups, clubs & people.  I met & on terms with the Student Body President & I've had breakfast at President & Mrs. Albrecht's home.  How many freshman can say that?  One that I know.  I've also met one other friend through SAB or at least she recognizes me on campus.  It's sometimes hard to be on campus.  I'd say I feel lost as person up there.  I don't know if that's cause I'm shy or older or whatever.  But this girl has gone out of her way to at least say Hi to me when we pass each other to & from class.  She usually initiates it.  Remember what I said above.  It's really that simple.  That little interaction makes the difference to me.  She may never know.  Someday, I'd like to tell her.  (Guess I'll have to grow a pair to get to that point.)  Education & Social Skills are 1a & 1b as far as I'm concerned.  I know what it is & probably the most important if you know me.  I absolutely love being on campus.  Last, week it was snowing some pretty big flakes.  I decided I was going to walk around in it  I put my iPod in & started listening to American English by Idlewild staring up into it all.  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joB0tlOjKcU)  I had to hold back tears.  That's just one case.  It happens all the time.  Like today at the soccer game.  I don't know what hit me, but I was struggling to hide the lump in my throat.  Utah State offers me so much.  I've made it a goal to do things on campus.  I've been to Science Unwrapped, multiple lectures on varying topics, soccer, volleyball, tennis, Chorale Concert, Art Shows, football, basketball, museums, Homecoming Dance, HOWL, concerts, etc.  Going to school has made me the happiest I've been in a long time.  It's enabled me to leave things on pause & focus differently for 4 years.  It WILL be one of the HARDEST things I do.  EVER!  But I'm gonna enjoy every second.

So... California!

I recently returned from a trip to Southern California.  (I've been thinking about this trip since August 6th at 10:40 or so in the morning.)  I go every year.  As I said in the previous post, I go to Disneyland, Amoeba, & to visit some great people.  I get asked, "Why?"  My response, "Why not!"  It's always hard for me to leave California.  If you ask my California friends, one of the first things I text to them upon landing is, "I'm home."  I feel so different when I'm there.  I think it stems from not EVER living outside of Utah & sorta being in the bubble.  I've always been one to want to be different.  LA area grants me the opportunity to be in total obscurity.  To me, this make sense.  It's early & A LOT could happen between now & then, but I'm 50/ 50 I'll be moving outside Utah upon graduation.

Things done in California...

Amoeba...  Check...  Walked off the plane & headed straight there.  We (Lin, MelLed, & I) got there a little before 10pm.  (Saw people protesting "Murder Music".  )  That gave us a little more than an hour.  I had $120 dollars burning a hole in my pocket.  Honestly, I was a little rushed, but came out under budget.  Gems found...  The Nerves, Noisettes, The New Pornographers: Mass Romantic & Electric Version, The Ramones: It's Alive, & a Rocket from the Crypt 45 (SCORE!).  I walked out about $10 under budget.

Me outside with my goodness.

In & Out...  Check...  Something about In & Out for me.  It was the 1st meal upon arriving on 23rd Birthday.  It synonymous with my first trip to Disneyland.  To me, the two go hand in hand.  I can still here Tim say, "I don't like the fries."  To which I said, "Whaaaat?"  I can't not eat there when I'm in California.  The fact In & Out is coming to Utah...  I'm gonna try my damnedest to only eat there when in California.  PS...  They have Dr. Pepper.  Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...   Take that Mr. Pib or as I say Mr. SHIT!

Disneyland...  CHECK...  What can I say?  I truly love this place.  A couple of things to make your visit more fun...  Embrace the fact you may stand in line for up to 2 hours for a ride.  Enjoy the fact you're there.  I go with kids now & just seeing there reaction to everything is priceless.  There eyes are as big a saucers.  Mine, TOO.  There's so much to see.  Details are not missed at Disneyland.  Take a look around.  Or try playing a game of Monopoly on a friends phone.  This passed time for Lin, MelLed, & I waiting for the greatest ride ever...   Space Effing Mountain!  Fun beyond comparison.  Two things happen for me...  I pretty much giggle the whole time on the ride.  It's been that way since the 1st time.  (I have witnesses.)  Second, I yell as loud as I can, "THANK YOU DISNEYLAND!" upon exiting.  Uncle Walt does not disappoint.

My fave picture...  Norah, Jake, & us all standing in line for Toy Story.  Amazing ride...

The last day was a lot of laziness.  Returning from Disneyland was a lot later than expected & we all had breakfast with Mema & Kathy.  I have put in a request to see these people the last few times I've gone down, but illness & timing haven't allowed it to happen.  It was good to see them.  Words can't describe them.  Another thing that happened on my first trip & I want to happen every time.  The rest of the day was spent at Kathy's.  I napped.  I was worn out.  I feel bad.  I slept longer than I needed, but I don't function on so little sleep.  (It's 3:37 am now.  Damn insomnia.)  After eating some pizza, Lin & I went to see The Ettes.  I mentioned I saw them in SLC.  Talking to them there; I wanted to see them again.  They put on an amazing show once again.  No, they didn't play my song as promised, but I'm not one to complain.  It was fun to go out with Lin & just absorb this part of life we both love & embrace with everything we've got.

There was a lot packed into 3-4 days.  I will be returning next year.  You all are welcome to join in the fun.  I'm counting down the days...  352 or so. 

Time passing...

Sorry for the delay in things.  School has been a lot of work.  I'm physically, mentally, & emotionally drained.  A few things have happened, let's get you up to speed...  In no particular order...

1st:  I got to meet my "Man Crush" at Modest Mouse.  I went to see The Night Marchers.  Them & them alone.  (I'm music snob.  Hey, I paid my $40.)  John Reis is a hero   Anything he does turns to gold.  There isn't anything he's been apart of that I don't like.   He came over to the merch table while I was there.  I thanked him for everything & that he got me through a ruff time in my life.  Here's my favorite song...

 

2nd:  Homecoming...  I got to spend the majority of my time entrenched in Aggie activities.  Culminating in the football game.

3rd:  I got to see one of my Top Ten bands:  The Get Up Kids.  They returned from hiatus to celebrate the 10 Anniversary of Something to Write Home About.  This album means so much to me.  This album has linked me to some of my best friends, Aaron, Jason, Wade, Jon, Beaver, & Spencer.  But also, with my friend Drew, who's no longer with us.  We went down to SLC in 1999 & saw these men perform in the Basement of DV8 (Also, no longer with us.).  I could feel him there with Jason, Aaron, Mel, Ingrid & I.  Ingrid is another friend I adore greatly.  I could not look at her, or I would have balled my eyes out.  Just thinking about it, tears start to well up.

Imagine me singing & dancing the whole time.

4th:  Jason & I went to Sunny Day Real Estate.  Amazing!  Let's hope they stay together long enuff to put out another album.

5th:  I finished my Aggie Experience Passport.  What is this?  It's designed to get students out & about to activities on campus.  I've been to Science Unwrapped, The Blood Battle, Major Fair, & Autumn Voices.  I mention the last one specifically.  It was amazing.  I ran into a new friend TJ from Harlem, New York.  He mentioned this to me & thet he was performing.  AMAZING!  Imagine me in my seat bobbing my head.  I couldn't contain myself.  Well done.  I'll be going again & again.

6th:  I got to see & meet The Ettes.  Who, you ask?  Let me introduce you...

This is CoCo...  She's the singer & guitar player.  She was so nice.  After the set, I went to buy my merch.  (I pretty much buy merch at every show.  How do bands get to the next town?  A lot of it depends on the sale of merch.)  I started talking to the bass player & she comes out says, "What's your name?"  Uh...  "Tom"  "Hi Tom, I'm CoCo."  I'm smitten.  We talk for some time.  I mean my crush has developed from the time I pick up the Shake the Dust record at Amoeba.  It was crush at first sight.  Now, I think I own everything.  I may be missing some import stuff.

This is Jem...  He plays bass.  I talked to him first on January 28, 2009.  (It's my bros B-Day.  That's how I remember.)  So nice.  Seriously one of the coolest people.

And this is Poni...  The drummer.  She hits soooooo damn hard.  She's incredible.  Beautiful.  

Can you see why I'm a fan?  But they also rock.  I can't stop listening to their new album.  It's kicking my ass.

7th:  I head out to California on Thursday.  I'm so excited.  I've been waiting for this moment since August.  I can't believe it's here.  Get me to Disneyland STAT.  But along the way, Amoeba, The Ettes show, Kathy & MeMa.  More craziness than you can imagine.  But more than anything, I can't wait to see Lin, Mel, Norah, & Tommy AND John, Kelsi, Jake, Georgia, & the bun in the oven.  They are the true reasons for all my trips to California.  Oh, I better not forget my partner in crime every year, Mel Led!  Always so eager to go with me.  Thanks Mel.

Ahhh... Labor Day Weekend...

My first break from school & I'm ready for a day off.  This weekend I went to a wedding for JD my Brother Dave's Brother-in-Law out at the Jensen Historic Farm.  A beautiful day for a wedding.  I got to hang with my big bro. I don't get to that very often here in Logan.  When I recieve, I'll post the coolest picture I've ever been a part of as soon as I get it.

Today, I went up & watched the Lady Aggie Soccer match.  I just thought it'd be nice to sit outside & study up on my Life Science.  Plus ladies running around in short shorts.  Why wouldn't I go up?  It was a lot of fun.  (Other than I had to sit by a BYU fan who couldn't stop talking about them beating OU.  I get it.  Just SHUT UP already.)  The Lady Aggie's are very good.  They went undefeated in conference last year.  They tied Wyoming (or WYO if you're from there I gathered sitting so close.  Who knew?)  1-1.  One funny moment, a WYO lady miss played the ball & yells out, "F--- ME!"  I thought it was pretty funny, but I noticed I'm the only one laughing.  BTW, this was the first sporting event I attended as a Freshman.  When they played the fight song, I'll be very honest; I got a little emotional.  I had to fight back a few tears.  So happy to be an Aggie finally.

Driving home, I noticed this up on the mountain.  (Just above Lundstrum Park if you need to know where to look.)

What the what?  It's smiley face up on the mountain.  Ok.

Tomorrow, I'll study & do some homework most of the day.  I need to get farther ahead.  Off I go...

Well, I'm still alive...

My first week is officially over.  There was a lot to take in.  First, I know you're dying to know...  I wasn't nervous at all.  I thought I'd be at least as nervous as when I fly.  Nope!  It was more like riding Space Mountain.  (I know some of you catch my drift.)  I've got a lot of reading.  I like to read, but this amount is almost ridiculous.  I'm making my way through.  I'm even ahead.  Knowing I've got The Night Marchers on Tuesday & other shows all September long.  The toughest thing for me is the social aspect.  I'm such an introvert.  I'm perfectly fine hanging out with myself.  It's almost more fun.  Any suggestions, I'll take 'em.  It's tough & very daunting.  It's a new week.  Let me see where it leads...

On the Eve...

School starts tomorrow!  I can't believe it.  It's here.  Am I nervous?  Kinda.  I thought I'd be a lot worse than I am.  I'll have to see how I sleep.  Here's my checklist for your approval...

• Get admitted...  Check!
• SOAR...  Check!
• Enroll in Classes...  Check!
• Pay Tuition...  Check! (Literally)
• Buy Backpack...  Check!
• Buy Notebooks...  Check!
• Buy Pens, Pencils, Highlighters...  Check!
• Buy Books...
• Flair out Backpack & notebooks...  Check!

What's the pad lock for?  Well, I had that on the backpack my senior year of high school.  Back then, it was more to keep it closed; this time it's to keep my iPod & camera safe.  One thing this bag is missing...

The '23' I hand painted.  Yes, I've framed it.  It's a piece of my history.  (Next to it, is a ceramic look-a-like of me.  I got this as a birthday present from a primary teacher, Sister Abel, when I was 7, 8, or 9.  What are they sitting on?  You can see 3 of 4 boxes full of 45s.  That's a sneak peak into my room.  I know everyone has been wondering what it looks like.  Well, there you go.)

Wish me luck as I open book 4 of my life.  My goal is still to post something once a week, Sunday preferably.  Forgive me if I lapse a week or two.

Watch out Utah State...  Cause here I come!

So... I've got a plan... Stan!

Before I reveal the decisions I've come to, I'd like to thank my support system.

My Parents, Bernie or Bernice:  I didn't know what it was going to be like when they came home.  I spent most of my 4th of July holiday with them.  If I didn't say it was awkward, I'd be lying.  I'm really very introverted & shy even round my family.  That's how it was then.  I don't think I strung two sentences together.  But to realize on Sunday morning they were 2 hours away in Sandy not a 6 hour flight over a large body of water.  It was good to get that hug I needed so dearly after 6-1/2 years of wrapping my arms around me pretending.

My friend Mandilyn & her little family.  For being the first person I called after the blow.  I couldn't go home; it was Jason's birthday.  I couldn't come that second & be Debbie Downer.  She's not the first person that came to mind, but I knew she just let me be.  To her son, Vincent, who cracks me up incessantly over & over.  His innocent joy & happiness riding the rides at the fair.  His quoting of his lizard & snake movie he watches all day everyday, or him over hearing telling me tell his Mom about Bernie & Bernice coming up.  Now, you ask him who my parents are, he says Bernie & Bernice.

Jason for being so understanding.  His calmness ; it seriously is a gift I wish I had.  Aaron's vigor & zeal to take my decision & help me run with it.  And everyone else I've talked, texted, IMed, emailed, spacebooked...

I need to mention music.  For the last week I haven't want to be alone with my head.  If it wasn't for music, I'd have gone crazy.  I've had to have something to distract me all the time.  It's my lullaby at night  I'll sleep an hour & wake up thinking it's been 8.  I've had to turn the computer back on & put something on.  As John Cusack says, "I just want something I can ignore." That statement never seemed so true.  So, thank you to my itunes library.  If you want to see them,  http://www.last.fm/user/Shy_Boy.  Not forgetting my records as they wage an offensive battle with my room.  They're winning.

So...  Here's the big decision...  

I'm 80% sure I'm going to school up at The Utah State University.  I had this pop into my head last Friday & confirmed to me on Monday when I walked around campus & visiting with Aaron.  Now, it's 80% because I'm waiting on BRHS to get my transcripts to admissions.  Coming out of high school or even while in high school, I was never asked if I wanted to go to college.  BRHS wanted to get me in & out of there so fast.  No time to dawdle.  I was an after thought.  A few teachers helped me through those days, especially senior year: Ms. Mazaros, Madame Park, & Coach Park.  It's always been in the back of my mind.  A lot more lately knowing something was coming at work.  I would sit at my desk & think about what I'd do if something happened, & this would be the first thing to pop up.  So here I am, an incoming 30 year old Freshman.  I'm scarred shitless.  I'd be lying if I told you otherwise.  But excited beyond compare to get going.  I'm going to worry about a job after school has started, & I know my schedule.

I want everyone to know I'm not bitter that everything transpired this last week or so.  I wouldn't change a thing.  Yes, it's the biggest obstacle I've had to deal, but look where it led me.

I'm going to better myself so this sure as hell won't happen again.

Insomnia...

So, I can't sleep.  I'm not sure if it's stress from the past week, the thoughts in my head, the searing pain between the shoulder blades, my f---ing mattress poking me in the back, or all four.  I'm thinking all of the above.  And yes, I know I need a new bed.  I've talked about it for some time now.

Finally...

I yelled myself hoarse for this the last time I saw these lovely ladies.   Thanks Donnas.  You still make my heart go pitter patter all these years.

This good too...

The Last Few Days...

I've got a lot of things running through my head lately. I'm sorry.  I've got to get these things out before I go crazy.  Here are a few things...

(Wanted "Going Crazy" by The Marked Men  This will work in it's stead...  "Fix My Brain")

Friday...  After the initial shock wore off, I fell asleep at 5:00 am.  Now, I don't know if it was the shock, the Dr. Pepper, or both.  I arose to face the day at 8:00ish.  Went through emails, responded to a few, showered, & got ready.  I left the house around 10:30.  I hadn't eaten since the afternoon before with Mandilyn.  I was/ am surving on Dr. Pepper.  I decided to eat at the Bluebird.  (I wanted to beat the rush before Sunday's Douche Bag gathering.  See Facebook for this one...)  I needed some comfort & some alone time.  Now, if you've been to the Bluebird, it's fallen on some hard times.  It might be one of the cool-est places in Logan, but the owner has let it go to shit.  Anyway, I ate & went to meet Mandilyn at the Cache County Fair.  I had a blast.  Just hanging with her & her two kids, Vincent & Avonlea (I hope that's right.)  Vin was loving the rides.  He was getting a kick out of them, but he loves the hydraulics of it all.  He hearts to face the apparatus & watch.  (Him to the right.)  His chicken also won a Blue Ribbon.  It was his kind of day.  I was with them up to about 3:00pm.  I came home & check a few things on the internet, emails mostly, but also Fantasy.  Jason asked if I wanted to see G.I. Joe.  Off we went.  It was okay.  I don't have Trasformers 2 to compare it to as being the worst thing ever, but I didn't hate it.  That's not to say I'll see it again.  NO WAY!  Go if you must, but there are holes everywhere.  After, Jason had heard we had some friends from Aaron in town from Colorado.They wanted to eat a Callaway's.  I said sure.  I've wanted to go there for awhile now.  It's in Smithfield about 5-7 miles North.  I really liked it, but our waitress was weird.  (That's the nice way to put it.)  She asked what I wanted to drink, "I said Dr. Pepper & keep 'em coming."  She did do that.  Afterwards, I raced to Why Sound (Newish venue here in town.  Can't say they'll ever get anybody of importance, but it's nice to have a place for local musicians to play.) to see The Castanettes play.  A local band from the greater Tremonton area.  I've known Chris through his brothers, Charles & Steven.  Family friends, for me, since the Summer of 1990.  I missed them, but I was able to snag their new CD.  It's really good.  It was even recorded & mixed by Steven.  That really is the end of Friday.

Saturday...  I talked to my friend Kiersten  (We go way go way back.  I've known her since 10th grade.  I always wanted to find a way to talk to her before then, but to no avail.  She moved to Tremonton in the 8th grade from SoCal.  We officailly met on our way to an assembly with Rikki (Ugh!)  We ended up sitting randomly next to each other.  I think I made a snide comment about something, & she laughed.  Friends since then.  One of the very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very few I still talked to from High School.  (Certain people excluded because I technically didn't talk to them till after high school.) ) the night before, & she offered to buy my ticket to the Warped Tour.  I told her I'd have to see how I sleep.  Well, I felt pretty good after waking on Saturday morning.  I decided to go.  Thursday morning I watched the Bad Religion DVD, Live at the Palladium.  (Best live DVD out there.  It's like I'm there, & they play all the hits.)  So, I was excited to see them play.  We get there, & I find out BR doesn't play till 8:15 pm.  It's 1:00ish at this point.  If you've ever gone to Warped Tour.  It's bloody hot, & you have to deal with

 all the idiots.  This year wasn't bad heat wise.  Although, I got a sun burn that makes me look like Two Face.  I'm pretty burnt on the left side of my face & normal on the right.  (As much I want to be Batman, I'll take Two Face.  At least I had Maggie Gillenhaul.  Right?)  We walk around for awhile.  The group (Some of Kiersten's friends came with us.) decide to go see The Architects.  Before, that I should mention I got Arturo Vega to sign a Ramones shirt for me.  Please wiki this & you'll know why this was important to me.  I really enjoyed to The Architects.  I even bought a CD.  I wish I'd run into them out & about.  Next, we saw Tat.  I seperated from the group; I wanted to take in everything.  See who was here & where it was.  I hear a girl singing.  My ears perk.  I look around & see Tat.  (Crappy name I know, but I think it's short for the singers name Tatiana.)  Now, girl singers/ girl groups are my love.  I don't know if it stems from being a lonely guy idolizing them, I guess.  Man, she was hot.  She got white hot (80's term) when I heard her talk.  Oh, that lovely British accent.  Man, oh man.  I snagged a CD during the second song from the bloke walking around with a box of them.  It's really good.  It'll take a few listens.  Think Joan Jett.  Speaking of Joan, they're making a Runaways movie.  They got Bella (I don't know her real name.) to play her when they could've got this lovely bird.  (Who's gonna play Lita?  I hope it's Ashley Tisdale! Serious.)  Now, I'm starting to ache at this point.  Not to mention the hip.  (It's another story.  Ask if you want to hear it.)  I'm no spring chicken as most of you know.  I had to sit & rest up.  Some of us went to a bowery to rest up.  Mostly for my sake.  While sitting there, I randomly run into a friend from Logan, I haven't seen in some time.  Chip Bullen.  Chip & I go way back.  One of first few I met when I moved over.  Actually, I probably met him before.  He knew my brothers from their Logan days.  We caught up while listening to Shad.  A hip hop artist from Canada.  Good.  I went over with Chip & co. for NOFX & Bouncing Souls.  NOFX played the Punk in  Drublic Album.  Which was good(?) for me because that's the only album I know.  It's all that really needs to be said about them.  Bouncing Souls was good to see.  I've known of them since '94, I think.  When they had Thanksgiving Dinner at 27 Punk Street.  They were touring on Good, the Bad, & the Argyle.  Now, look at them.  Now, we wait.  It's now 7:00ish.  I've got to sit through 3OH!3.  Why are these guys popular?  Now, it's finally here.  Bad Religion is up.  I got chills when they played Recipe for Hate.  

This is one of the songs that hooked me in 7th grade.  I can remember saving my lunch money for a month to see them in 11th grade.  Changed my life.  I bought a t-shirt & it mysteriously disappeared when it went through the wash the first time.  (Bernice?)  Great time.  They said they'd be back next year.  I'll believe when I see it.  I wish they'd played...

That's Saturday.

Sunday...  I woke up realizing my parents are 2 hours away not a 6 hour flight.  I showered & hopped in the car.  I stopped along the way at Target to use a gift card I got from work two years ago.  Used it up.  Went to Bernie & Bernice's in Sandy.  They were eating lunch.  Both were pretty excited to see me.  I ate lunch, & we talked.  I told them my plans.  They were very supportive of it.  (What's this you may ask?  You'll know when it happens.  Trust me.)  I left at 4:00 & meandered my way to Doug & Niki's new house in Mill Creek. Very nice.  I was worried upon initially seeing it in July, but very surprised by the it all.  Left there at 6:00 to see the Zombies.  Zombies, you ask?

My buddy Chris (I've known him 15 years now.) posted a link on Spacebook about it.  People are encouraged to dress up like Zomies & walk down 5th South in SLC.  AWESOME!  Also, saw a few friends I haven't seen in ages...  G & Julie.  I was just thinking about her the other day.  Good to see here after so long.

That's it really.  I'm sorry for the length.  I told you previously; I write novels.  Just look, I took up half your work day.  I'm sorry for the size of the photos too.  I took them with my phone. The battery had worn down on the Coolpix.

I'm Off/On the Wagon... (Depending on how you wanna look at it.)

I've been driven back to the elixir of life (As Bernie says).  I've had one 44 oz fountain, & I'm working on a second as we speak.  I don't think I've been this caffeinated for about 10 years or so.  Yes, 10 years without any caffeine.  I know you're asking yourself, "How did/can he survive without it?"  I just did.  I made it a goal, & it stuck.  This year, I cut out carbonation.  Well, not any more. It tastes amazing.  That first sip was breathtaking.  It still is.  

Now, you're asking yourself another question, "What broke the camels back?"

Today around 10:40 am, I was laid off from my job.  Most the office staff got it.  We were on furlough in July.  Most didn't know that.  I had to take 5 days off before the end.  If I said, I didn't see it coming; I'd be lying.  I just thought it wouldn't be me...  yet, as stupid as that sounds.  I thought they needed someone to keep components coming in to finish projects.  I guess not.

A few things...

• I can remember the email I got from Russ that fateful December day.  I can remember writing the address down on a post-it.  (I still have it.  Sentimental bastard...)  I can remember the drive to meet with him.  I can remember walking in & asking for him.  (Ken was at his desk & pointed me in the right direction.)  I can remember the nickel tour.  I can remember him asking if I wanted to leave Icon.  DUH!  (I was hoping on that fateful drive this would happen, but I didn't want to jinx it.)  I can remember being nervous & excited about it.  The day I gave my 2 weeks to Roger.  Feeling so nervous; I'd never done that.  Him understanding.  Being so happy.  I WAS OUT.  Going to California to visit my dear friends & my Uncle Walt for 28 on 28.  Not being sad to leave California for once.  My first day...  My first week...  My second week...  Getting yelled at...  The aluminum flying...  The ensuing 2 years, 8 months, 4 days, 2 hours & 40 minutes...

• The fun we had.  I'll never forget some of the people I met, all friends.  I hope to keep in touch with most of them; time will tell.  Getting the band back together with Russ.  Joel, for helping me learn a lot those first few days, weeks, months, & years.  Plus, breakfast on Christmas Morning, twice, when I really didn't have anywhere to go.  I'll never ever forget those.  Andy, sleeping in your corner.  Scott, friend I never had in high school.  (Could've been a friend.  Me, class of '97; Scott, class of '98.  KAB!)  Brent, your unfailing positive attitude.  Go Aggies!  John, for teaching me how to be a dick.  (Yes, that's right.  Sometimes you just gotta be one.)  And your even keel.  Seantae, your bulldog approach to your job.  I wish only I had that in my DNA.  I'd be a lot farther in life.  These are the people I saw & worked with daily.  Shop guys...  a tip of the cap to you.  You all are unbelievable  craftsmen & awe-inspiring at what you do.  I wish you all the best. I'm better for knowing everyone.  Cheers...

I'm ok with it all now.  I'm sad, excited, nervous, & tired.  I'm tired but not tired, & it's not the caffeine.  (If you know what I'm saying.)  The next few month will tell what I'll do, or where I end up.  Lots of things a running amuck in my head.  One thing, I KNOW I WILL LAND ON MY FEET THAT'S FOR DAMN SURE!!!  Keep tuned in to see what happens, but it ain't happening till Monday.

ps...  I had to write this for my sanity.  Being the depressed person that I am, I had to get these thoughts out.

pps...  A big thank you to Mandilyn for letting me just "be" at her house.  I couldn't be alone with myself after initial bomb.

ppps...  John Hughes, you made some damn amazing (Yes, I know.  I've said it a lot.) iconic movies.  They sure as hell don't make them like you did.  RIP

pppps...  Sorry for the novel.  If you need to walk away & come back, I understand.

the Week That Was...

Nothing too exciting happened to me this week.  I just thought I'd try a little more to hit this for those I don't see all that often.

Let's see...  I finished another book.  It's called Spanking Shakespeare by Jake Wizner.  If you've ever had embarrassingly funny moments in your life, especially in high school (As I have...), I highly recommend this book.  It's about a boy, Shakespeare Shapiro, going into his senior year in high school having done none of the things most kids his age  (Even his little brother) have done.  (I'm with him on a few myself at 30 years.)  During his final year, he has to write a senior memoir.  He takes all the funny & embarrassing stories in his life & turns this in to his memoir.  With chapter titles such as...  The  Time I Got Caught with a Pornographic Magazine in Math Class or  The Time My Mother Used Emotional Blackmail to Deprive Me of the Only Thing I Ever Wanted...  I laughed out loud during most of these nuggets.  I haven't laughed out loud for something so funny since Spud & Spud...  The Adventure Continues.  Mr Wizner's stories within the story, but also, the story as a whole, make this an enjoyable read from start to finish.

Another thing,  I ran into a picture on a fave bands myspace... 

 

www.myspace.com/thenightmarchers  (Copy & paste the link...)

It's a picture of one of the most famous Aggies in history. (Maybe I'm exaggerating a little, who knows...)  Let me know if you can figure it out.  Also, I saw they are coming with Modest Mouse.  That's got me all giddy like a school girl.  (You can see earlier posts on these men.)  I'm ready to see some rock 'n' roll that will knock my socks off.  Stay for a song or two...  It'll cure your RnR Heart.

WOW! Almost 6 Months...

I haven't done this in awhile.  I really don't have much to report.  

Rumors are true.  Bernie & Bernice are home for good.  They're living in Sandy.  Yes, Sandy.  I'll have to go to In & Out & make a visit.  Not 'til then.  J/K.

I've seen friends from California in both May & July.  Good to see them & their little families.  I appreciate them coming & visiting with me.  Though, it may only be for a night or so.

Let's see...  I've read a few books.  I would recommend 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher.  Really good.  It'll give you a feel for the state I'm in lately...

Musically...

Lots of Girls & Pop...  Nothing's changed.  Nikki Corvette is amazing.  Sticks in your head & never wants to leave.  My fave...  Discovered The Shivvers on Last.fm...  Again, sticks in my head...

Off to read...

The Ettes...

Wednesday, I went to dinner for my Bro Dave's Birthday & about 20 of his closest friends.  We went to Acme Burger.  It's on 2nd West & Broadway.  Afterwards, I went & hung out with my other Bro, Doug at Monks.  About 10:30 pm, I, alone, headed down to Burt's Tiki Lounge for...

The Ettes...  I haven't been blown away for some time at a show.  Not since the Night Marchers in September.  I discovered The Ettes on myspace, but never really heard them 'til I picked up Shake the Dust at Amoeba in Hollywood.  I saw two cute girls & had to have it.  Found out their names  were CoCo, Jem, & Poni; how can you go wrong? First, you've got Poni (Right) on the drums.  She played a six piece set.  She had two cymbals, a high hat, snare, bass, & a Tom.  (I wish she had a Tom.  Ha Ha...)  I'm surprised she didn't she didn't break a head; she was pounding so hard.  I've never seen drumming like that before.  She was right on top of them.  Pounding away.  Next, Jem (Left) the bass player.  I've never noticed when listening to them before, but they are very bass heavy.  Sure, they gotta a guitar (We'll get there.), but he really drives this band.  Even got to talk to him afterward.  I bought some stuff as I always do.  Very nice.  Last is CoCo on guitar.  How can I describe her live?  She's as cute as I would've imagined.  She's the reason I bought the album.  Her song writing is very simple.  If you did too much more, it be over kill.  Her guitar playing is simple bar chords.  I'm glad I saw them before they get 'uge.  I felt like I was the only one there to see 'em.  At the very least, I was on the left side of the stage.  Don't count the douche bags in front of me.  I stood in the back as I always do; just blown away.  They didn't play my favorite song (I Wanna Go Home), but it may not be suitable for the live show.  I would highly suggest this great band to anyone in a rut musically.  Simple, fresh, catchy...

Big Bro Dave...

Tomorrow is my brother Dave's Birthday.  Some of you know him; some of you don't.  Since I'll be celebrating with him & The Ettes, I wanted to post something.  It's starts back when I was a sophomore in high school.  That's when I started getting away from Tremonton & spending the weekend at his & Doug's house.  (I had to get away.)  My first real concert; he was there.  We saw The Ramones in August 1995.  He called in sick to work to go.  He's showed me how to listen to music.  I listen a lot keener than I did at a young age.  We've gone to a lot of shows together, all 3 Rocket from the Crypt shows, The Supersuckers,  The Night Marchers, the Donnas @ DV8 Basement (RIP) & many more.  He's been in a few bands: Surly, Tarn, The Protocol, The Switch, & Blackhole.  I'm sure to be missing a few.  I'm proud to say I've seen them all.  Every time I went to SLC, we'd end up at DI.  Doug, Chris, & he would look through records while I'd meander off.  I eventually got the bug & started collecting myself.  (Now, I've got 700 +.)  He's been through some ups & downs.  I've been through some ups & downs.  But we've been there for each other.  I can say I would be who I am with out him.  Cheers, Dave.  Happy Birthday.

Music of '08...

Here are five artist with new albums I dug...

The Night Marchers

See You in Magic

The Loved Ones

Build & Burn

The Ettes

Look at Life Again Soon

Teenage Bottlerocket

Warning Device

Rocket from the Crypt

All Systems Go, Vol. 3

52 Books in 52 Weeks...

One goal for '08 was to read 52 books for 52 weeks of the year.  How close did I come?  42-1/2.  

Here's the top 5 or so (no particular order):

Looking for Alaska

An Abundance of Katherines

Paper Towns

-by John Green

(Brilliant Young Adult Novels with a mysterious girl character, & the guy whose out to find them.)

Ranger's Apprentice Series:

The Ruins of Gorlan

The Burning Bridge

The Icebound Land

The Battle for Skandia (the 1/2)

-by John Flanagan

(Excellent Fantasy novels.  Follows the adventures of young Will, the Ranger's Apprentice...)

Spud-The Madness Continues...

- by John van de Ruit

(I've raved about Spud, the first of this series.  This, here, is the second.  Seriously, laugh out loud funny.  I busted a gut many times.  Rain Man is hilarious, but all of Spud's cohorts are a scream.  READ THESE!  Nuff said.)

The Wednesday Wars

-Gary D. Shimdt

(Magnificent book about growing up.)

Click

-Mult. Authors

(Ten Authors collaborate on one novel.  They each take a turn at writing from a different perspective.  Really put together nicely.)

There's many more, but these are some of my favs.  As you see there's a theme, Young Adult.  Maybe, I'm trying to escape back to those times & see it from a different perspective.  Maybe not.  I do know I'm trying to escape.  I don't know what from, but there's something...

PS...  One thing (many) I didn't like were the Twilight books.  Boo!  Sorry ladies.  (See earlier posts...)