Hey, somebody's got to clean up the mess that suicide victims leave behind. Let me start off by saying that I thought this was a good movie, but I really think they could have brought more to the table. Writer Megan Holley created some very interesting character who had the potential for extensive exploration. But we just didn't get to see it play out on screen. Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, and Alan Arkin all did a fine job, however, with a little more script, they could have really shined. The subplots never fully ran their courses and the ending felt rushed. A nice movie, but not life changing.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Pass the Popcorn: Sunshine Cleaning
Hey, somebody's got to clean up the mess that suicide victims leave behind. Let me start off by saying that I thought this was a good movie, but I really think they could have brought more to the table. Writer Megan Holley created some very interesting character who had the potential for extensive exploration. But we just didn't get to see it play out on screen. Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, and Alan Arkin all did a fine job, however, with a little more script, they could have really shined. The subplots never fully ran their courses and the ending felt rushed. A nice movie, but not life changing.
Hey, somebody's got to clean up the mess that suicide victims leave behind. Let me start off by saying that I thought this was a good movie, but I really think they could have brought more to the table. Writer Megan Holley created some very interesting character who had the potential for extensive exploration. But we just didn't get to see it play out on screen. Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, and Alan Arkin all did a fine job, however, with a little more script, they could have really shined. The subplots never fully ran their courses and the ending felt rushed. A nice movie, but not life changing.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Madden Curse Lives
If you're unaware, virtually every player who's been on the cover of EA Sports' Madden NFL game has been injured in the same year their cover was released - From Michael Vick to Shuan Alexander. Even Brett Favre tore his bicep part way through last season. He played through the pain, but his effectiveness dropped dramatically.
This year, Pittsburgh Steeler Troy Polamalu sprained his MCL in the first game. He'll be out 3-6 weeks. But the twist is that Larry Fitzgerald is also on the cover, which means there could be more to come. Who do the VooDoo that Madden's proved true? It remains a mystery.
If you're unaware, virtually every player who's been on the cover of EA Sports' Madden NFL game has been injured in the same year their cover was released - From Michael Vick to Shuan Alexander. Even Brett Favre tore his bicep part way through last season. He played through the pain, but his effectiveness dropped dramatically.
This year, Pittsburgh Steeler Troy Polamalu sprained his MCL in the first game. He'll be out 3-6 weeks. But the twist is that Larry Fitzgerald is also on the cover, which means there could be more to come. Who do the VooDoo that Madden's proved true? It remains a mystery.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
She's a He and a She!
Caster Semenya, the South African track star, is a hermaphrodite. Check out the article here. In all reality, this shouldn't be that big of a surprise considering her name says it all. Caster (Castrate - to remove sexual organs) Semenya (See! Men, yeah).
Her parents were trying to tell us something this whole time.
Caster Semenya, the South African track star, is a hermaphrodite. Check out the article here. In all reality, this shouldn't be that big of a surprise considering her name says it all. Caster (Castrate - to remove sexual organs) Semenya (See! Men, yeah).
Her parents were trying to tell us something this whole time.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
It's in the stars, kind of.
Holy Crap, it's 09/09/09. And when I got to worked, I looked at the clock at 9:08, waiting for the glorious moment of quintuple nines. But I got sidetracked. And when I looked back, it was already 9:10. Nooooooo! I missed it. The moment that was going to change my life forever... at least, until 10:10 on 10/10/10.
Holy Crap, it's 09/09/09. And when I got to worked, I looked at the clock at 9:08, waiting for the glorious moment of quintuple nines. But I got sidetracked. And when I looked back, it was already 9:10. Nooooooo! I missed it. The moment that was going to change my life forever... at least, until 10:10 on 10/10/10.
Hugh Hefner's "Guitar Hero" commercial is much more stimulating than the one with all of the basketball coaches. Hey, I'm just saying.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Warning!
There was a little girl on the Today Show this morning who literally had her hand torn off. She was riding home in the back seat of her Suburban when she decided that it would be cool to see her jump rope blowing in the wind. She tied one end to her wrist, cracked the window open, and tossed the other end out. The rope was just long enough to catch under the tire (or in the axle) of the moving car, and rip her hand right off.
Not only is that completely messed up, but it's also understandable. Pay attention to your kids people.
There was a little girl on the Today Show this morning who literally had her hand torn off. She was riding home in the back seat of her Suburban when she decided that it would be cool to see her jump rope blowing in the wind. She tied one end to her wrist, cracked the window open, and tossed the other end out. The rope was just long enough to catch under the tire (or in the axle) of the moving car, and rip her hand right off.
Not only is that completely messed up, but it's also understandable. Pay attention to your kids people.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Donnie's Sweet Find - The Literal Translation of "Total Eclipse of the Heart's" music video.
For some reason it wouldn't embedd, so you'll have to follow the link.
For some reason it wouldn't embedd, so you'll have to follow the link.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sucks to be them
There are two men's restrooms on my floor at work. One of them butts right up to another office, which wouldn't normally be that bad. However, there's a vent towards the ceiling that seems to connect directly to the next room. Conversations travel through the wall clear as day. It makes me wonder if noises travel in the other direction as well. Can you imagine hearing a toilet flush as if it were right next to you all day long? Or worse yet, listening to some dude trying to pass his lunch on a dailey basis. It sucks to be them if that's the case.
There are two men's restrooms on my floor at work. One of them butts right up to another office, which wouldn't normally be that bad. However, there's a vent towards the ceiling that seems to connect directly to the next room. Conversations travel through the wall clear as day. It makes me wonder if noises travel in the other direction as well. Can you imagine hearing a toilet flush as if it were right next to you all day long? Or worse yet, listening to some dude trying to pass his lunch on a dailey basis. It sucks to be them if that's the case.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Probably not true since I made it up
Is it possible that injury prone Carson Palmer of the Bengals is actually health resistant? Some sources say yes, Carson Palmer actually has a mutated virus that fights off good health in professional athletes. Palmer was more than likely infected at USC since subsequent draft busts Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush have also tested positive for the virus. Of course, Leinart claims that he's only guilty of being too fun and that a cream can cure the itch.
However, a local doctor said this particular virus strain is smart based on the fact that it doesn't start damaging healthy athletes until they sign big contracts. That doctor also went on to say that a rogue group of aliens abducted him when he was twelve, forcing him to scientifically probe sea monkeys for hours on end, which was the reason he turned to the medical field as an adult.
"It's nice to know I'm not just a raging vagina that gets hurt all of the time. I have a disease that affects many over-paid athletes every year," Palmer may have been over heard saying, but probably not.
Until further tests are conducted, we can only assume that these athletes just don't have what it takes to perform in the big leagues. But as the list of suspected victims continues to grow with names McNabb and the entire Broncos running core, we can't help but start to believe the monkey probing doctor.
Is it possible that injury prone Carson Palmer of the Bengals is actually health resistant? Some sources say yes, Carson Palmer actually has a mutated virus that fights off good health in professional athletes. Palmer was more than likely infected at USC since subsequent draft busts Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush have also tested positive for the virus. Of course, Leinart claims that he's only guilty of being too fun and that a cream can cure the itch.
However, a local doctor said this particular virus strain is smart based on the fact that it doesn't start damaging healthy athletes until they sign big contracts. That doctor also went on to say that a rogue group of aliens abducted him when he was twelve, forcing him to scientifically probe sea monkeys for hours on end, which was the reason he turned to the medical field as an adult.
"It's nice to know I'm not just a raging vagina that gets hurt all of the time. I have a disease that affects many over-paid athletes every year," Palmer may have been over heard saying, but probably not.
Until further tests are conducted, we can only assume that these athletes just don't have what it takes to perform in the big leagues. But as the list of suspected victims continues to grow with names McNabb and the entire Broncos running core, we can't help but start to believe the monkey probing doctor.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Tarantino and the Matrix
I recently watched Quentin Tarantino's YouTube posting where he talks about his top 20 favorite movies released since 1992. Beyond being filled with Asian flicks, I found two other things he said to be interesting (and by interesting, I mean they mirror my own thoughts).
First, he praises M. Night Shyamalan's "Unbreakable," which is definitely an underrated film. That being said, M. Night is a completely overrated director, writer, and actor. But what I like the most about his brief description of the movie, is the fact that he refers to M. Night Shyamalan as Shamalong-a-ding-dong, which has been my nickname for him since he came out with "Signs."
Second, was his view of "The Matrix." This was one of the best action movies ever made when it came out in 1999. The special effects, action scenes, and storyline blew me away. However, the release of the second and third Matrix movies completely diluted the briliance of it all. The storyline became subpar and the special effects got too big for their own good, making the actions scenes almost laughable. I still love "The Matrix" as a stand alone movie but not as much as I loved it before the other two were released.
Tarantino's an odd duck though. He's cool. He makes edgy films. But he's odd.
I recently watched Quentin Tarantino's YouTube posting where he talks about his top 20 favorite movies released since 1992. Beyond being filled with Asian flicks, I found two other things he said to be interesting (and by interesting, I mean they mirror my own thoughts).
First, he praises M. Night Shyamalan's "Unbreakable," which is definitely an underrated film. That being said, M. Night is a completely overrated director, writer, and actor. But what I like the most about his brief description of the movie, is the fact that he refers to M. Night Shyamalan as Shamalong-a-ding-dong, which has been my nickname for him since he came out with "Signs."
Second, was his view of "The Matrix." This was one of the best action movies ever made when it came out in 1999. The special effects, action scenes, and storyline blew me away. However, the release of the second and third Matrix movies completely diluted the briliance of it all. The storyline became subpar and the special effects got too big for their own good, making the actions scenes almost laughable. I still love "The Matrix" as a stand alone movie but not as much as I loved it before the other two were released.
Tarantino's an odd duck though. He's cool. He makes edgy films. But he's odd.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Miss Universe! That's assuming an awful lot.
This was actually the first year I've ever watched the Miss Universe pageant, and I did so while fast forwarding through most of it on my DVR. All I'm saying is that Miss USA is a D-bag, Miss Australia almost got robbed (except for she sounded like a typical bimbo on the interview question), and there were too many Latin American countries in the top ten.
I would like to know exactly what they judge these ladies on because one swim suit, one dress, and 30 seconds of talking seems like weak standards for deeming someone Miss Universe. I want to see a talent competition (no baton throwing allowed), a Trivia test, and maybe a competition where they have to build something out of a K'NEX set. Remember those, they were awesome.
I know it's a beauty pageant, but I want some substance. Don't get me wrong, I love seeing ladies in bikinis. But ladies in bikinis building a model bridge could be sexy too. And Miss Venezuela, let's hold onto the crown next time.
This was actually the first year I've ever watched the Miss Universe pageant, and I did so while fast forwarding through most of it on my DVR. All I'm saying is that Miss USA is a D-bag, Miss Australia almost got robbed (except for she sounded like a typical bimbo on the interview question), and there were too many Latin American countries in the top ten.
I would like to know exactly what they judge these ladies on because one swim suit, one dress, and 30 seconds of talking seems like weak standards for deeming someone Miss Universe. I want to see a talent competition (no baton throwing allowed), a Trivia test, and maybe a competition where they have to build something out of a K'NEX set. Remember those, they were awesome.
I know it's a beauty pageant, but I want some substance. Don't get me wrong, I love seeing ladies in bikinis. But ladies in bikinis building a model bridge could be sexy too. And Miss Venezuela, let's hold onto the crown next time.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Oddly Not Connected
One of my grandpa's and my dad’s favorite says growing up was “Powder River Let’er Buck” – a popular phrase among cowboys, a battle cry for northwest infantry during the wars, and rallying cry for many northwest universities. To commemorate the passing of my grandpa (a gritty old cowboy) I had those initials tattooed on me along with my grandpa’s brand. I didn’t think a lot about it until recently, when I came across a funny connection:
Besides being coined by a legendary cowboy, Powder River, Let’er Buck was also popularized in a book of the same title in the early 1900s by a writer/rancher who lived in Jackson, WY. I spent several years in Jackson during youth. Furthermore, I’ve also become a writer in my adult life. But finally, the writer’s name is Struthers Burt, which is also my last name.
I know that this doesn’t mean anything in any literal fashion. But it’s interesting that a phrase I grew up around and have tattooed on my body was affected so greatly by someone who has some obvious surface level connections to myself. Except of course that I’m not rancher, but I wouldn’t mind being one.
Powder River, Let’er Buck!
One of my grandpa's and my dad’s favorite says growing up was “Powder River Let’er Buck” – a popular phrase among cowboys, a battle cry for northwest infantry during the wars, and rallying cry for many northwest universities. To commemorate the passing of my grandpa (a gritty old cowboy) I had those initials tattooed on me along with my grandpa’s brand. I didn’t think a lot about it until recently, when I came across a funny connection:
Besides being coined by a legendary cowboy, Powder River, Let’er Buck was also popularized in a book of the same title in the early 1900s by a writer/rancher who lived in Jackson, WY. I spent several years in Jackson during youth. Furthermore, I’ve also become a writer in my adult life. But finally, the writer’s name is Struthers Burt, which is also my last name.
I know that this doesn’t mean anything in any literal fashion. But it’s interesting that a phrase I grew up around and have tattooed on my body was affected so greatly by someone who has some obvious surface level connections to myself. Except of course that I’m not rancher, but I wouldn’t mind being one.
Powder River, Let’er Buck!
Favre Fevre
I know the majority of the sports world didn't want to see Brett Favre come back. And I get the fact that the news coverage is annoying. But as far as pure parody in competition, I think it's awesome. Some broken down old dude is trying to keep his streak alive, stick it to a team that burned him, and win one last time. Sign me up for that.
Like the rest of his career, his season will probably be filled with brilliant games and huge interceptions, but that only makes it more exciting. My feeling towards the whole situation is probably helped by the fact that I'm not a Packers fan and have been indifferent about Favre's career. That being said, let's see what the guy's got left in the tank.
I know the majority of the sports world didn't want to see Brett Favre come back. And I get the fact that the news coverage is annoying. But as far as pure parody in competition, I think it's awesome. Some broken down old dude is trying to keep his streak alive, stick it to a team that burned him, and win one last time. Sign me up for that.
Like the rest of his career, his season will probably be filled with brilliant games and huge interceptions, but that only makes it more exciting. My feeling towards the whole situation is probably helped by the fact that I'm not a Packers fan and have been indifferent about Favre's career. That being said, let's see what the guy's got left in the tank.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Glorious NoPo
On my way to work this morning I got stuck at a red light for what seemed like 5 full minutes. Luckily I was right next to a bus stop, so I had no shortage of people to watch. What caught my eye this time was an odd couple vigorously making out. A white gray-haired man who could have easily been an old 35 or a young 50 donned baggy FUBU jeans with one leg rolled up to his knees. His spit-swapping partner appeared to be an old 25-year-old girl, but it wouldn't have surprised me if she was closer to 40.
They intently sucked face, only coming up for a quick breath of air and a shared drag off of a old cigarette. It was both creepy and disgusting. The session continued the whole time I was stranded there. Her bus arrived when my light turned green. As I drove away I could see them both take one last puff off the cig, spit their gum out on the street (even though they were leaning on a garbage can), and continue on.
On my way to work this morning I got stuck at a red light for what seemed like 5 full minutes. Luckily I was right next to a bus stop, so I had no shortage of people to watch. What caught my eye this time was an odd couple vigorously making out. A white gray-haired man who could have easily been an old 35 or a young 50 donned baggy FUBU jeans with one leg rolled up to his knees. His spit-swapping partner appeared to be an old 25-year-old girl, but it wouldn't have surprised me if she was closer to 40.
They intently sucked face, only coming up for a quick breath of air and a shared drag off of a old cigarette. It was both creepy and disgusting. The session continued the whole time I was stranded there. Her bus arrived when my light turned green. As I drove away I could see them both take one last puff off the cig, spit their gum out on the street (even though they were leaning on a garbage can), and continue on.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Mostly Not True: Tiger Chokes…on hairball?
It appeared that Tiger Woods choked this weekend after blowing a fourth round lead, missing almost every conceivable putt, and carding a 75 in the wake of it all. After the devastating loss, however, he hunched over and coughed up a massive hairball. Critics and fans were quick to point out that even though you can gag on a hairball, you don’t technically choke on it. And being that Tiger’s name literally references a giant cat, it makes sense that Mr. Woods would cough one up every once and awhile.
Greg “The Shark” Norman chimed in after the loss, saying that he too has gagged in the past but only after trying to consume a large seal without adequately chewing it. A far-too-real phenomenon that simply comes with having your nickname refer to a predatory animal.
Phil Michelson was later heard crying behind the media tent because he doesn’t have a cool nickname. “Lefty” is nothing more than a one-armed pirate or a right-handed gangster (because gangsters like the irony of having nicknames that are opposite of their physical characteristics…Like Tiny or Shorty). Phil was seen leaving the course with “The Abominable Snowman” written on the back his shirt.
It appeared that Tiger Woods choked this weekend after blowing a fourth round lead, missing almost every conceivable putt, and carding a 75 in the wake of it all. After the devastating loss, however, he hunched over and coughed up a massive hairball. Critics and fans were quick to point out that even though you can gag on a hairball, you don’t technically choke on it. And being that Tiger’s name literally references a giant cat, it makes sense that Mr. Woods would cough one up every once and awhile.
Greg “The Shark” Norman chimed in after the loss, saying that he too has gagged in the past but only after trying to consume a large seal without adequately chewing it. A far-too-real phenomenon that simply comes with having your nickname refer to a predatory animal.
Phil Michelson was later heard crying behind the media tent because he doesn’t have a cool nickname. “Lefty” is nothing more than a one-armed pirate or a right-handed gangster (because gangsters like the irony of having nicknames that are opposite of their physical characteristics…Like Tiny or Shorty). Phil was seen leaving the course with “The Abominable Snowman” written on the back his shirt.
Pass the Popcorn: Coraline
Laika's stop animation project from Portland, Ore. boasts the vocal talents of Dakota Fanning and Teri Hatcher. Because of the local connections I whole-heartedly wanted to like this movie, which is about a lonely girl who discovers a secret door that leads to a fantasy world. The script wasn't bad and the animation served nicely, but I felt like the movie was void of any real weight. I blame the audio mixing and absence of strong ambient sounds. Animations have to have a full spectrum of background noise to make up for the obvious lack of reality, and this one didn't. It just wasn't a rich enough experience for me.
Laika's stop animation project from Portland, Ore. boasts the vocal talents of Dakota Fanning and Teri Hatcher. Because of the local connections I whole-heartedly wanted to like this movie, which is about a lonely girl who discovers a secret door that leads to a fantasy world. The script wasn't bad and the animation served nicely, but I felt like the movie was void of any real weight. I blame the audio mixing and absence of strong ambient sounds. Animations have to have a full spectrum of background noise to make up for the obvious lack of reality, and this one didn't. It just wasn't a rich enough experience for me.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Naturally Natural
This morning at my parent's house, I had milk that went straight from a local cow to my mom's fridge, eggs that went straight from a local coup to our carton, and sausage links wrapped and seasoned by my dad. I felt officially self-sufficient.
The craziest part about the milk, is that my mom actually separates the cream from the top, then separates butter from the cream, and has low fat milk to show for it. Crazy.
This morning at my parent's house, I had milk that went straight from a local cow to my mom's fridge, eggs that went straight from a local coup to our carton, and sausage links wrapped and seasoned by my dad. I felt officially self-sufficient.
The craziest part about the milk, is that my mom actually separates the cream from the top, then separates butter from the cream, and has low fat milk to show for it. Crazy.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Crazy-Realistic Dreams: Is This Normal?
Last night I was kept awake by several vivid dreams. I usually have intense REM, but last night's was particularly realistic. Here's the short version.
Dream 1: I pulled into a large gas station along the interstate to find that the parking lot of full. There were two large military-type tanks parked alongside two heavily armored SUVs. I thought it odd but still wanted to purchase a Gatorade and Snickers bar. On my way into the travel center I notice three large airplanes flying overhead. The first one suddenly veered left. It's wing sheered off and it came crashing down dangerously close the station. People were panicked and running when the second plane did the same thing, crashing even closer. When the third plane started its crash sequence, however, I knew it was comeing right for us. I started to run, barely making it out of the way as the plane crashed into the corner of the travel center. I looked up just in time to see the roof over the gas pumps collapse, killing everyone under it.
I was still able to get into the damaged travel center where they were already marketing down goods because of the crashes. Unfortunately after I grabbed my Gatorade and Snickers, I realized they didn't accept debit cards, and I only had $1 in my pocket.
Dream #2: My wife and I returned to Manhattan where we needed to board the subway and head uptown. I had just told her about my experience with the airplanes as we were getting on the A train. I suddenly had the thought that the plane crashes might be a foreboading about my train ride, so I jumped off as the doors closed. My wife didn't make it off in time. She seemed confused as the train headed uptown.
I started walking to the stairs when i saw a man removed a pistol from his coat. He saw me take notice and told me to leave, but when I turned, he shot me in the back. The impact knocked me down. I could feel the cramping in my side as I reached around and felt the blood. I managed to walk upstairs and into a library where someone called an ambulance. However, instead of waiting for paramedics, the librarian tried digging the bullet out of my back. The pain woke me up.
Dream #3: I was driving a new truck with my dad and my kids in the back seat. I believe I was on my way home from the hospital because I was conscious of getting shot earlier. The road became increasingly windy and the side barriers started narrowing. It was hard to control the truck, but I was managing.
Just when I thought I got through the bulk of the danger, the truck suddenly flipped and rolled several times. The impact was unsettling, but everyone was okay. I got out to find that the truck infront of me had lost a ladder that cuased me to flip. I then spent the next part of the dream fighting with an insurance company over who was going to fix my truck.
So those were my rambling dreams that cuased me to wake up exhuasted.
Last night I was kept awake by several vivid dreams. I usually have intense REM, but last night's was particularly realistic. Here's the short version.
Dream 1: I pulled into a large gas station along the interstate to find that the parking lot of full. There were two large military-type tanks parked alongside two heavily armored SUVs. I thought it odd but still wanted to purchase a Gatorade and Snickers bar. On my way into the travel center I notice three large airplanes flying overhead. The first one suddenly veered left. It's wing sheered off and it came crashing down dangerously close the station. People were panicked and running when the second plane did the same thing, crashing even closer. When the third plane started its crash sequence, however, I knew it was comeing right for us. I started to run, barely making it out of the way as the plane crashed into the corner of the travel center. I looked up just in time to see the roof over the gas pumps collapse, killing everyone under it.
I was still able to get into the damaged travel center where they were already marketing down goods because of the crashes. Unfortunately after I grabbed my Gatorade and Snickers, I realized they didn't accept debit cards, and I only had $1 in my pocket.
Dream #2: My wife and I returned to Manhattan where we needed to board the subway and head uptown. I had just told her about my experience with the airplanes as we were getting on the A train. I suddenly had the thought that the plane crashes might be a foreboading about my train ride, so I jumped off as the doors closed. My wife didn't make it off in time. She seemed confused as the train headed uptown.
I started walking to the stairs when i saw a man removed a pistol from his coat. He saw me take notice and told me to leave, but when I turned, he shot me in the back. The impact knocked me down. I could feel the cramping in my side as I reached around and felt the blood. I managed to walk upstairs and into a library where someone called an ambulance. However, instead of waiting for paramedics, the librarian tried digging the bullet out of my back. The pain woke me up.
Dream #3: I was driving a new truck with my dad and my kids in the back seat. I believe I was on my way home from the hospital because I was conscious of getting shot earlier. The road became increasingly windy and the side barriers started narrowing. It was hard to control the truck, but I was managing.
Just when I thought I got through the bulk of the danger, the truck suddenly flipped and rolled several times. The impact was unsettling, but everyone was okay. I got out to find that the truck infront of me had lost a ladder that cuased me to flip. I then spent the next part of the dream fighting with an insurance company over who was going to fix my truck.
So those were my rambling dreams that cuased me to wake up exhuasted.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Michael Crabtree: 4+4 = 0
After conferring with his advisor and cousin David Wells, #10 NFL draft pick Michael Crabtree has decided to make $0 next year instead of $4 million. Wells, a self proclaimed Rain Man, claims that if you take the square root of a desired salary times pi and divide it by the number of years Michael Jackson was black then 4 hens in the tree are greater than 1 in your hand. Crabtree approved this logic by not firing his cousin and stating that “Dustin Hoffman is a really smart dude.”
In a related story, Texas Techs math department is under full review.
After conferring with his advisor and cousin David Wells, #10 NFL draft pick Michael Crabtree has decided to make $0 next year instead of $4 million. Wells, a self proclaimed Rain Man, claims that if you take the square root of a desired salary times pi and divide it by the number of years Michael Jackson was black then 4 hens in the tree are greater than 1 in your hand. Crabtree approved this logic by not firing his cousin and stating that “Dustin Hoffman is a really smart dude.”
In a related story, Texas Techs math department is under full review.
Crabtree’s Advisor Reveals Master Plan
Michael Crabtree’s cousin and adviser David Wells went on to say that he also wants to advise for President Barack Obama in the coming months. Wells, after all, is Michael Crabtree’s cousin and feels that this raises his advisory market value. Besides, he was able to get Crabtree great media coverage for mere millions, proving that any press is good press. Or at least that if you act like a douche bag, people will write about you.
His plan? Have the president hold out from running the country until he’s recognized as President of the World. He also wants Russian Prime Minister Putin to put his shirt back on. Putin couldn’t be reached for comment because he was too busy hanging out with Matthew McConaughey and Tour D’ France winner Lance Armstrong, who also enjoy the feel of a cool breeze on their bare nipples.
Michael Crabtree’s cousin and adviser David Wells went on to say that he also wants to advise for President Barack Obama in the coming months. Wells, after all, is Michael Crabtree’s cousin and feels that this raises his advisory market value. Besides, he was able to get Crabtree great media coverage for mere millions, proving that any press is good press. Or at least that if you act like a douche bag, people will write about you.
His plan? Have the president hold out from running the country until he’s recognized as President of the World. He also wants Russian Prime Minister Putin to put his shirt back on. Putin couldn’t be reached for comment because he was too busy hanging out with Matthew McConaughey and Tour D’ France winner Lance Armstrong, who also enjoy the feel of a cool breeze on their bare nipples.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Greed Sucks
The 49ers 10th overall pick in the draft needs to shut up and prove himself. I'm sick of NFL rookies thinking that they deserve to make umpteen million guaranteed dollars before they ever suit up. The NFL needs to take a page from the NBA's book where the rookie salaries are capped. After they prove themselves for two or three years, they can hold out for as much money as they want. Until then, just be happy your getting paid to play a sport.
Michael Crabtree is case and point. The dude thinks he was the best receiver in the draft even though he wasn't drafted the highest. That's fine. You did good in college. Now go out with the big boys and prove you can still be that good. All this holding out because you want to make more than that guy before you've ever played an NFL down in crap.
The 49ers 10th overall pick in the draft needs to shut up and prove himself. I'm sick of NFL rookies thinking that they deserve to make umpteen million guaranteed dollars before they ever suit up. The NFL needs to take a page from the NBA's book where the rookie salaries are capped. After they prove themselves for two or three years, they can hold out for as much money as they want. Until then, just be happy your getting paid to play a sport.
Michael Crabtree is case and point. The dude thinks he was the best receiver in the draft even though he wasn't drafted the highest. That's fine. You did good in college. Now go out with the big boys and prove you can still be that good. All this holding out because you want to make more than that guy before you've ever played an NFL down in crap.
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Everybody Poops
That's right I said it. Everybody poops. However, not everybody talks about it. So here's my T.M.I. about poop today.
I had to relieve myself after a particularly large lunch at Wendy's. Of course when I got to the restroom, someone didn't flush their pee down the toilet. Knowing that this specific toilet is slow to react when flushing, I decided that I would delicately go #2 without a preflush. I was, afterall, in a hurry. No worries, right? Wrong. As luck would have it, things got a little aggressive and Bam! Someone else's pee splashed up on my butt. And that my friends, isn't a pleasant thing to think about. But I've already written it. You've already read it. And we've both just thought about it. Sorry for that.
That's right I said it. Everybody poops. However, not everybody talks about it. So here's my T.M.I. about poop today.
I had to relieve myself after a particularly large lunch at Wendy's. Of course when I got to the restroom, someone didn't flush their pee down the toilet. Knowing that this specific toilet is slow to react when flushing, I decided that I would delicately go #2 without a preflush. I was, afterall, in a hurry. No worries, right? Wrong. As luck would have it, things got a little aggressive and Bam! Someone else's pee splashed up on my butt. And that my friends, isn't a pleasant thing to think about. But I've already written it. You've already read it. And we've both just thought about it. Sorry for that.
'Dating in the Dark' should be called 'When average looking people realize they don't want to date other average looking people.'
I think it's funny that these people all try to make it sound like looks don't matter as they choose not to date their matches after they see what they look like. The bottom line is that looks do matter. Your partner doesn't have to be a supermodel, but if you're not attracted to them then you might as well just be friends.
Sexual chemistry is important in any relationship. You don't have to go around humping like rabbits, but if you don't feel like getting romantic with your spouse, you're in for a bumpy ride. On that same note, you also have to be best friends with your spouse. It's a two-way street and both lanes needs to be traveled.
It's not a matter of being superficial or shallow. It's purely about finding the right person that fits your expectations. If your expectations are too high, you may be lonely for awhile. Likewise, if you lie to yourself and say you've changed your expectations so you don't look like a douche bag on national TV, you'll probably still be lonely. You'll just have someone next to you that's lonely too.
I think it's funny that these people all try to make it sound like looks don't matter as they choose not to date their matches after they see what they look like. The bottom line is that looks do matter. Your partner doesn't have to be a supermodel, but if you're not attracted to them then you might as well just be friends.
Sexual chemistry is important in any relationship. You don't have to go around humping like rabbits, but if you don't feel like getting romantic with your spouse, you're in for a bumpy ride. On that same note, you also have to be best friends with your spouse. It's a two-way street and both lanes needs to be traveled.
It's not a matter of being superficial or shallow. It's purely about finding the right person that fits your expectations. If your expectations are too high, you may be lonely for awhile. Likewise, if you lie to yourself and say you've changed your expectations so you don't look like a douche bag on national TV, you'll probably still be lonely. You'll just have someone next to you that's lonely too.
Monday, August 03, 2009
Not so Lucky
With the number of people out there that are sharing files on peer-to-peer networks, it would sure suck to be one of the handful that actually get sued for it. From Yahoo Tech:
The latest verdict in its favor has been handed down against Ph.D. student Joel Tenenbaum, who was found guilty of willfully infringing 30 songs and sharing them on the KaZaA peer-to-peer network. Despite the almost circus-like environment of the legal proceedings (in which Tenenbaum's lawyer was sanctioned for his behavior), the jury didn't take long to determine the level of damages against Tenenbaum: $675,000, or $22,500 per song he illegally shared online.
With the number of people out there that are sharing files on peer-to-peer networks, it would sure suck to be one of the handful that actually get sued for it. From Yahoo Tech:
The latest verdict in its favor has been handed down against Ph.D. student Joel Tenenbaum, who was found guilty of willfully infringing 30 songs and sharing them on the KaZaA peer-to-peer network. Despite the almost circus-like environment of the legal proceedings (in which Tenenbaum's lawyer was sanctioned for his behavior), the jury didn't take long to determine the level of damages against Tenenbaum: $675,000, or $22,500 per song he illegally shared online.
The trailer for The Time Traveler's Wife freaks me out. Some dude meets a chic when she's a little girl, falls in love with her, and then travels through time until she's a woman and sleeps with her. I'm sure there's more to the story, but as it stands, I'm sufficiently weirded out. Fall in love with someone your age Time Traveler. Before you know it, Chris Hansen is going to be knocking on your door.
Pass the Popcorn: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
The sixth installment of the of Harry Potter series hit theaters in July, which means I actually got to see a movie before it came to the Red Box. Yeah for me! The Half Blood Prince has David Yates (director of Order of the Phoenix and the next two Potter films) lead us one step closer to the inevitable confrontation between Harry and Voldemort, who was noticably absent during this film.
The Half Blood Prince was well shot, all of the actors added another level of depth to their characters, and there was a lot of well timed humor throughout. That being said, I was slightly let down by this Potter film. Don't get me wrong, it's worth seeing, but it definitely had a more methodical pace than the last two.
The movie does a decent job at describing the main plot points but comes up short at creating some of the obvious torment some of the main characters go through in the book. This could be overlooked if it was replaced with another platform to hold my interest.
I know the book focused more on self discovery (if my memory serves me), but I would have liked a little more tempo in the theatrical version. And the fact that all of the critics seemed to embrace the film also raised my expectations, which probably contributed to my mild let down. And since this installment was pushed back over 6 months due to the writer's strike, we now have to wait a year and a half to see how Yates will interpret the first half of the last book (just long enough for me to lose interest).
Despite my negative ramblings, The Half Blood Prince was well done and will probably be much better upon a second viewing.
The sixth installment of the of Harry Potter series hit theaters in July, which means I actually got to see a movie before it came to the Red Box. Yeah for me! The Half Blood Prince has David Yates (director of Order of the Phoenix and the next two Potter films) lead us one step closer to the inevitable confrontation between Harry and Voldemort, who was noticably absent during this film.
The Half Blood Prince was well shot, all of the actors added another level of depth to their characters, and there was a lot of well timed humor throughout. That being said, I was slightly let down by this Potter film. Don't get me wrong, it's worth seeing, but it definitely had a more methodical pace than the last two.
The movie does a decent job at describing the main plot points but comes up short at creating some of the obvious torment some of the main characters go through in the book. This could be overlooked if it was replaced with another platform to hold my interest.
I know the book focused more on self discovery (if my memory serves me), but I would have liked a little more tempo in the theatrical version. And the fact that all of the critics seemed to embrace the film also raised my expectations, which probably contributed to my mild let down. And since this installment was pushed back over 6 months due to the writer's strike, we now have to wait a year and a half to see how Yates will interpret the first half of the last book (just long enough for me to lose interest).
Despite my negative ramblings, The Half Blood Prince was well done and will probably be much better upon a second viewing.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
G.I. JOE: Rise (or Fall) of Cobra
I have a sinking feeling that G.I. JOE is going to bomb at the box office when it opens next week. Being a fan of the franchise as a kid, I was excited when I heard about this live action version last year. Unfortunately, what Batman did so right, it looks like JOE did all wrong. The power behind cartoon or comic resurgence is in the gritty, real life application of its characters. Fans like to experience the dark reality of these imaginary worlds. And from recent previews, it looks like JOE has gone the 12-year-old popcorn route instead. Granted, this worked for Transformers (which was actually somewhere in between), but I don't see it translating here. The one liners feel forced and the action looks like it's too rooted in fantasy. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Hopefully I'm wrong for the franchise's sake.
I have a sinking feeling that G.I. JOE is going to bomb at the box office when it opens next week. Being a fan of the franchise as a kid, I was excited when I heard about this live action version last year. Unfortunately, what Batman did so right, it looks like JOE did all wrong. The power behind cartoon or comic resurgence is in the gritty, real life application of its characters. Fans like to experience the dark reality of these imaginary worlds. And from recent previews, it looks like JOE has gone the 12-year-old popcorn route instead. Granted, this worked for Transformers (which was actually somewhere in between), but I don't see it translating here. The one liners feel forced and the action looks like it's too rooted in fantasy. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Hopefully I'm wrong for the franchise's sake.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Hot. Hot. Hot.
I know talking about the weather is a little lame. But after 10 straight days of 90+ degrees and three above 100 degrees, I've come to the conclusion that my next house is going to have more than one window AC unit. It's supposed to be 107 degrees today. Someone needs to tell mother nature that this is Portland and that is uncalled for.
I know talking about the weather is a little lame. But after 10 straight days of 90+ degrees and three above 100 degrees, I've come to the conclusion that my next house is going to have more than one window AC unit. It's supposed to be 107 degrees today. Someone needs to tell mother nature that this is Portland and that is uncalled for.
Soulja Boy Lyrics...Suck
I'm To Clean Off In This Hoe
Watch Me Crank Dat Roosevelt
Then Super soak That Hoe,
And Superman That Bitch,
I know I'm not super young and maybe not even super hip, but literally every line ends in Hoe, Bitch, or talking about bodily fluids. Seriously, this is a top selling artist. Whatever happened to hip hop? It amazes me that this type of lyrical content is supported by anybody. Don't get me wrong, I've got some Kanye, Jay Z, and Eminem on my ipod, but stuff like this isn't even ironically good. It's the lowest common denominator and that's it.
I'm To Clean Off In This Hoe
Watch Me Crank Dat Roosevelt
Then Super soak That Hoe,
And Superman That Bitch,
I know I'm not super young and maybe not even super hip, but literally every line ends in Hoe, Bitch, or talking about bodily fluids. Seriously, this is a top selling artist. Whatever happened to hip hop? It amazes me that this type of lyrical content is supported by anybody. Don't get me wrong, I've got some Kanye, Jay Z, and Eminem on my ipod, but stuff like this isn't even ironically good. It's the lowest common denominator and that's it.
Monday, July 27, 2009
A new taser gun that can stop up to three people without reloading! Bring on the miscreants. It's showtime.
Pass the Popcorn: Defiance
There's something about Holocaust movies that just make them hard to watch. Perhaps it's because everybody is dying and even the happy endings are sad. Defiance is no different. It tells the heroic story of three Jewish brothers who establish a forest hideout community during WWII in order to escape from the Nazis. This true recounting does a good job at giving each of the brothers their own emotional arc, but overall, there wasn't anything fresh to see. It showed the torment men go through when they are elevated to saviors, when hard decisions have to be made, and that everyone has the opportunity to stand up and lead when the time is right. But even though the action was good in spots, a lot of the scenes felt stagnant.
I'm constantly in awe of those who made it through that time in history and fully appreciate those who try to do them justice by telling their stories. But it takes a great piece of work for me to really appreciate the situation cinematicly. I like the effort here but don't love the outcome.
There's something about Holocaust movies that just make them hard to watch. Perhaps it's because everybody is dying and even the happy endings are sad. Defiance is no different. It tells the heroic story of three Jewish brothers who establish a forest hideout community during WWII in order to escape from the Nazis. This true recounting does a good job at giving each of the brothers their own emotional arc, but overall, there wasn't anything fresh to see. It showed the torment men go through when they are elevated to saviors, when hard decisions have to be made, and that everyone has the opportunity to stand up and lead when the time is right. But even though the action was good in spots, a lot of the scenes felt stagnant.
I'm constantly in awe of those who made it through that time in history and fully appreciate those who try to do them justice by telling their stories. But it takes a great piece of work for me to really appreciate the situation cinematicly. I like the effort here but don't love the outcome.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Pass the Popcorn: Knowing
Nick Cage discovers a code that reveals all the major tragedies in the last 50 years in Knowing. But does it also reveal the end of the world? That's what I was trying to find out.
From the first trailer to the DVD release, I never really wanted to see this movie, especially after it got bombed by some critics. But Donnie said give it a try, and who am I to turn down a suggestion.
As much as I didn't want to like Knowing, I couldn't help but be captivated the whole way through. It wasn't the best movie I've ever seen, but it was much more suspenseful that I had expected. I'm also not sure I loved where the eventual plot went, but I didn't mind the ride either. Overall, Knowing wasn't the perfect movie, but it's perfectly suitable for 2 hours of entertainment on a Saturday night while the kids were sleeping and I was waiting for my wife to get home from work. The bottle of wine didn't hurt the cause either.
Nick Cage discovers a code that reveals all the major tragedies in the last 50 years in Knowing. But does it also reveal the end of the world? That's what I was trying to find out.
From the first trailer to the DVD release, I never really wanted to see this movie, especially after it got bombed by some critics. But Donnie said give it a try, and who am I to turn down a suggestion.
As much as I didn't want to like Knowing, I couldn't help but be captivated the whole way through. It wasn't the best movie I've ever seen, but it was much more suspenseful that I had expected. I'm also not sure I loved where the eventual plot went, but I didn't mind the ride either. Overall, Knowing wasn't the perfect movie, but it's perfectly suitable for 2 hours of entertainment on a Saturday night while the kids were sleeping and I was waiting for my wife to get home from work. The bottle of wine didn't hurt the cause either.
The Super Soaker 50 - 20th Anniversary
Twenty years after revolutionizing the squirt gun, the Super Soaker 50 steps back into the fold with an anniversary edition. The SS50 was the first water toy to give you a fighting chance against the hose. And like all popular kids toys, it quickly advance into the SS100 and the SSMDS(multi-directional soaker), which was my personal favorite. Of course, later advancements made the soaker too cumbersome and ineffective in an all out battle, but they still flew off the shelf.
Stuck smack dab in the middle of an Oregon heatwave, the re-release of the SS50 not only brings back a warm sense of nostalgia, but also some much needed soaking. Unfortunately my kids are still to young to take full advantage of the pressurized water chamber.
Twenty years after revolutionizing the squirt gun, the Super Soaker 50 steps back into the fold with an anniversary edition. The SS50 was the first water toy to give you a fighting chance against the hose. And like all popular kids toys, it quickly advance into the SS100 and the SSMDS(multi-directional soaker), which was my personal favorite. Of course, later advancements made the soaker too cumbersome and ineffective in an all out battle, but they still flew off the shelf.
Stuck smack dab in the middle of an Oregon heatwave, the re-release of the SS50 not only brings back a warm sense of nostalgia, but also some much needed soaking. Unfortunately my kids are still to young to take full advantage of the pressurized water chamber.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Soccer Can Be Fun
I went to the Portland Timbers game last night to film some stuff for work, which means I had a media pass and virtually unlimited access to the grounds. The crew and I ended up watching most of the game from the sidelines and mingling with the Timbers Army, and I have to say that soccer in Portland is fun.
I've never seen so much constant passion from a group of fans. It's intoxicating. They make you want to join in and get lost in the fervor. I've been known to say that it's hard to like a game that battles for 90 minutes and still ends in a tie but I'm starting to see the small victories in that. Play for a win at a home and a tie on the road? Who knows, maybe it will continue to grow on me. And the more I immerse my self in the culture, it becomes apparent that it's not just about the game.
If soccer has never appealed to you, I recommend learning a little bit about it and then visiting the Timbers at PGE park. Give a chance and see what happens.
I went to the Portland Timbers game last night to film some stuff for work, which means I had a media pass and virtually unlimited access to the grounds. The crew and I ended up watching most of the game from the sidelines and mingling with the Timbers Army, and I have to say that soccer in Portland is fun.
I've never seen so much constant passion from a group of fans. It's intoxicating. They make you want to join in and get lost in the fervor. I've been known to say that it's hard to like a game that battles for 90 minutes and still ends in a tie but I'm starting to see the small victories in that. Play for a win at a home and a tie on the road? Who knows, maybe it will continue to grow on me. And the more I immerse my self in the culture, it becomes apparent that it's not just about the game.
If soccer has never appealed to you, I recommend learning a little bit about it and then visiting the Timbers at PGE park. Give a chance and see what happens.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
I could be wrong but...
I'm hiking Mount St. Helens next month with some friends and acquaintances, and I'm having a hard time trying to figure out why they are making it such a big deal out of it. I don't think that I'm some superman or anything, but this can't be that hard. It's a ten mile hike which gets up to elevations of 4500 feet. Not that bad. Upon reading about some of the trail descriptions on the website, they seem to be described as "more difficult," which doesn't sound too intimidating. Yet, I get emails every week from the people I'm going with talking about how they have 3 or 4 practice hikes scheduled. They repeatedly make mention of this being a 'big day' and 'an undertaking' where training is 'a must'. Really?
All I'm saying is that I went on a day hike in Montana at a family reunion a couple years ago that had a steep vertical grade (we went from 5,500 feet to 10,000 feet in the course of 4.5 miles), and there was no preperation involved. I carried my 4-month-old daughter on my back with my wife by my side. And did I mention that we had 2 very pregnant women come along.
Yes, it's a 10-mile hike up a mountain. And I totally respect people wanting to be in shape for it. But do we really need all of this melodramatic lead up. Can't we just say that were going to hike St. Helens and it's going to be fun? We'll see some sights and explore some trails, so here's to a fun day.
Again, I could be wrong. I could be completely underestimating this thing. But deep down, I don't think that's the case.
I'm hiking Mount St. Helens next month with some friends and acquaintances, and I'm having a hard time trying to figure out why they are making it such a big deal out of it. I don't think that I'm some superman or anything, but this can't be that hard. It's a ten mile hike which gets up to elevations of 4500 feet. Not that bad. Upon reading about some of the trail descriptions on the website, they seem to be described as "more difficult," which doesn't sound too intimidating. Yet, I get emails every week from the people I'm going with talking about how they have 3 or 4 practice hikes scheduled. They repeatedly make mention of this being a 'big day' and 'an undertaking' where training is 'a must'. Really?
All I'm saying is that I went on a day hike in Montana at a family reunion a couple years ago that had a steep vertical grade (we went from 5,500 feet to 10,000 feet in the course of 4.5 miles), and there was no preperation involved. I carried my 4-month-old daughter on my back with my wife by my side. And did I mention that we had 2 very pregnant women come along.
Yes, it's a 10-mile hike up a mountain. And I totally respect people wanting to be in shape for it. But do we really need all of this melodramatic lead up. Can't we just say that were going to hike St. Helens and it's going to be fun? We'll see some sights and explore some trails, so here's to a fun day.
Again, I could be wrong. I could be completely underestimating this thing. But deep down, I don't think that's the case.
Pass the Popcorn: Confessions of a Shopaholic
One of the worst things about being married is watching crappy movies. I'm sure it goes the same for my wife. After all, she did sit through most of Watchmen with me. That being said, Confessions of a Shopaholic was a pile of crap. It's been a long time since I've actually been angry because of a movie.
What makes me even angrier is that I remember seeing reviews that actually gave it some praise, so at the very least I was expecting mediocrity. Instead I sat through 90 minutes of a ridiculously stupid plot lines and completely unbelievable characters. There's was one scene that had any sense of realism and that's it.
Don't get me wrong, I wasn't expecting an Oscar contender. But I was hoping for something at least in the vain of The Devil Wears Prada or even Legally Blonde. What I got was a steaming pile of poo.
One of the worst things about being married is watching crappy movies. I'm sure it goes the same for my wife. After all, she did sit through most of Watchmen with me. That being said, Confessions of a Shopaholic was a pile of crap. It's been a long time since I've actually been angry because of a movie.
What makes me even angrier is that I remember seeing reviews that actually gave it some praise, so at the very least I was expecting mediocrity. Instead I sat through 90 minutes of a ridiculously stupid plot lines and completely unbelievable characters. There's was one scene that had any sense of realism and that's it.
Don't get me wrong, I wasn't expecting an Oscar contender. But I was hoping for something at least in the vain of The Devil Wears Prada or even Legally Blonde. What I got was a steaming pile of poo.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Movie Night Lives
Now that Henry is sleeping through the night, I'm able to stay up later and watch movies again. I love it. I forgot how much I enjoy throwing in a movie at 10 p.m. Malinda usually falls asleep halfway through, but it still gives us some nice quiet time together, which isn't easy to get when you have two kids.
Now that Henry is sleeping through the night, I'm able to stay up later and watch movies again. I love it. I forgot how much I enjoy throwing in a movie at 10 p.m. Malinda usually falls asleep halfway through, but it still gives us some nice quiet time together, which isn't easy to get when you have two kids.
Pass the Popcorn: Watchmen
The tagline "Who watches the Watchmen?" is close but incomplete. It should ask "Who watches the Watchmen and likes it?" I was really excited for this movie to release on DVD. It had one of the best trailers of the year and a gripping premise. Too bad the movie didn't follow suit.
Watchmen tells the story of a group of reluctant superheros who struggle to find their place in an world that doesn't really want them. It's long, violent, and lacks any true emotion. Some of the scenes were fantastic and some of the music was great. The climax didn't follow the emotional arc of the characters it set up to follow, and ultimately, I didn't care anyway. Overall the movie was bad.
The tagline "Who watches the Watchmen?" is close but incomplete. It should ask "Who watches the Watchmen and likes it?" I was really excited for this movie to release on DVD. It had one of the best trailers of the year and a gripping premise. Too bad the movie didn't follow suit.
Watchmen tells the story of a group of reluctant superheros who struggle to find their place in an world that doesn't really want them. It's long, violent, and lacks any true emotion. Some of the scenes were fantastic and some of the music was great. The climax didn't follow the emotional arc of the characters it set up to follow, and ultimately, I didn't care anyway. Overall the movie was bad.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Pass the Popcorn: Twilight
I finally broke down and watched Twilight with my wife. If you don’t know what’s it’s about, then you’ve been living under a pop culture rock for the last year. It’s basically the equivalent of Harry Potter for women of all ages. Of course, only teenyboppers will admit it.
I had low expectations for the movie, which were woefully met. The pacing was erratic, the acting was uneven, and the plot seemed thin. Of course, my wife explained that a lot of the back story and emotional torment from the book was left out. The movie just seemed to lack soul. I guess given the subject matter that might be appropriate but not exciting to watch.
Fortunately for the franchise, a new director signed on for the next movie, a move that should add some much needed life to a series about the undead.
I finally broke down and watched Twilight with my wife. If you don’t know what’s it’s about, then you’ve been living under a pop culture rock for the last year. It’s basically the equivalent of Harry Potter for women of all ages. Of course, only teenyboppers will admit it.
I had low expectations for the movie, which were woefully met. The pacing was erratic, the acting was uneven, and the plot seemed thin. Of course, my wife explained that a lot of the back story and emotional torment from the book was left out. The movie just seemed to lack soul. I guess given the subject matter that might be appropriate but not exciting to watch.
Fortunately for the franchise, a new director signed on for the next movie, a move that should add some much needed life to a series about the undead.
Monday, July 20, 2009
A Response to Eric's Question About Tiger, Golf, and the Gentleman's Game
View blog post here
Tiger Woods is an enigma in golf. His popularity has always been polarizing. It's just that more people tend to love him rather than hate him. However, even amongst his fans, there's the underlying knowledge of his bad attitude surrounding poor play.
Like all of the sports greats, Tiger is a staunch competitor that hates to lose. That type of tenacity is what allows him to win so often. Pure drive enables skill to shine through even when the odds aren't favorable. But when you play with so much passion, it's hard to block out the negatives as well. You notice it in golf because of the accessibility to the pros during an entire round. Of course, that doesn't make it right.
Don't get me wrong, I think all golfers are competitive. But they don't reach that extra gear of determination Tiger has. Ali had it. Jordan had. Montana had. That's what made them great. And that's what made them polarizing.
It's easy to say that Watson played the gentleman's game the way it should be played. But in this day and age with the amount of money and sponsorships on the line, professional golf is no longer a gentleman's game. It's a competitive sport where the best in the world battle it out for four days a week. And as much as I hate to admit it, if Watson had a little more of that killer instinct in him, he probably would have walked away with the trophy last week.
So no, Tiger is no longer a thing of the past. He's just a reminder that golf is no longer a country club activity. It's an international sport where millions are up for grabs to those who want it the most.
View blog post here
Tiger Woods is an enigma in golf. His popularity has always been polarizing. It's just that more people tend to love him rather than hate him. However, even amongst his fans, there's the underlying knowledge of his bad attitude surrounding poor play.
Like all of the sports greats, Tiger is a staunch competitor that hates to lose. That type of tenacity is what allows him to win so often. Pure drive enables skill to shine through even when the odds aren't favorable. But when you play with so much passion, it's hard to block out the negatives as well. You notice it in golf because of the accessibility to the pros during an entire round. Of course, that doesn't make it right.
Don't get me wrong, I think all golfers are competitive. But they don't reach that extra gear of determination Tiger has. Ali had it. Jordan had. Montana had. That's what made them great. And that's what made them polarizing.
It's easy to say that Watson played the gentleman's game the way it should be played. But in this day and age with the amount of money and sponsorships on the line, professional golf is no longer a gentleman's game. It's a competitive sport where the best in the world battle it out for four days a week. And as much as I hate to admit it, if Watson had a little more of that killer instinct in him, he probably would have walked away with the trophy last week.
So no, Tiger is no longer a thing of the past. He's just a reminder that golf is no longer a country club activity. It's an international sport where millions are up for grabs to those who want it the most.
Cink goes big. Watson goes bust.
Tom Watson choked this weekend at the British Open. But you still have to give credit to Stewart Cink for battling back, dropping a clutch birdie putt, and forcing a playoff. I do feel bad for the 59-year-old Watson, but I also feel bad for Cink because he's not getting the credit he deserves. This was Cink's first Major win, but it's being overshadowed by Watson's major heartbreak.
Tom Watson choked this weekend at the British Open. But you still have to give credit to Stewart Cink for battling back, dropping a clutch birdie putt, and forcing a playoff. I do feel bad for the 59-year-old Watson, but I also feel bad for Cink because he's not getting the credit he deserves. This was Cink's first Major win, but it's being overshadowed by Watson's major heartbreak.
Pass the Popcorn: Last Chance Harvey
Last Chance Harvey follows a broken Dustin Hoffman as he courts an equally depressing Emma Thompson for two days in London. Although the characters aren't all smiles, the story is sweet and subtle. Another airplane movie, I did enjoy this Woody Allen-esque story. It has a slow pace but worth the time.
Last Chance Harvey follows a broken Dustin Hoffman as he courts an equally depressing Emma Thompson for two days in London. Although the characters aren't all smiles, the story is sweet and subtle. Another airplane movie, I did enjoy this Woody Allen-esque story. It has a slow pace but worth the time.
Pass the Popcorn: Inkheart
Inkheart is a fairly confusing movie about a man who can summon characters from stories simply by reading the words aloud. Unfortunately, for everyone who comes out, someone goes back in. I watched this Brenden Fraser flick on the airplane last week, which consequently makes any film more tolerable. This was no different. Semi-interesting characters, decent effects, and a disjointed plot made for a mediocre experience. Inkheart was fun enough at 33,000 feet, but probably isn't worth watching when your feet are on the ground.
Inkheart is a fairly confusing movie about a man who can summon characters from stories simply by reading the words aloud. Unfortunately, for everyone who comes out, someone goes back in. I watched this Brenden Fraser flick on the airplane last week, which consequently makes any film more tolerable. This was no different. Semi-interesting characters, decent effects, and a disjointed plot made for a mediocre experience. Inkheart was fun enough at 33,000 feet, but probably isn't worth watching when your feet are on the ground.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Monday, July 06, 2009
Pass The Popcorn
Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen. I don't have time to write a full review, so let me just say a couple of things.
1) It's not as complicated as most critics would have you believe.
2) Michael Bay just can't help being horribly cheesy with his love storylines.
3) The racist robot fiasco is blown way out of proportion.
4) There's a ton of action, which is mostly fun and definitely over-the-top.
5) It's not nearly as good as the first one but still worth seeing. Unless you're a critic expecting something more than it's promising. Then you're just an idiot.
All in all, it was a fun movie that was full of holes and unnecessary plot points. Megan Fox's pants had the uncanny ability to stay white under crazy-intense conditions. They could have blended Shia's hurt hand into the story better. And you get inundated with so many robots towards the end, you have no idea who's good and bad. But then again, you probably won't care.
Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen. I don't have time to write a full review, so let me just say a couple of things.
1) It's not as complicated as most critics would have you believe.
2) Michael Bay just can't help being horribly cheesy with his love storylines.
3) The racist robot fiasco is blown way out of proportion.
4) There's a ton of action, which is mostly fun and definitely over-the-top.
5) It's not nearly as good as the first one but still worth seeing. Unless you're a critic expecting something more than it's promising. Then you're just an idiot.
All in all, it was a fun movie that was full of holes and unnecessary plot points. Megan Fox's pants had the uncanny ability to stay white under crazy-intense conditions. They could have blended Shia's hurt hand into the story better. And you get inundated with so many robots towards the end, you have no idea who's good and bad. But then again, you probably won't care.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Levi's New Go Forth Campaign is intriguing. Check out the video but also check out their microsite. It's reflective inspiration. Subdued patriotism. Melancholy excitement. Or maybe I'm just projecting.
What's Up 3-Day Weekend
I'm checking out for a weekend with the in-laws. Should be fun. I'll catch you on the flip side. Of course, immediately after I acknowledge the flip side, I will be spending a week in Mexico drinking, playing golf, and suckin' some swine flu. But after that, I will definitely hit you all back.
In the meantime, have a happy July 4th. Let's celebrate our independence, yeah.
I'm checking out for a weekend with the in-laws. Should be fun. I'll catch you on the flip side. Of course, immediately after I acknowledge the flip side, I will be spending a week in Mexico drinking, playing golf, and suckin' some swine flu. But after that, I will definitely hit you all back.
In the meantime, have a happy July 4th. Let's celebrate our independence, yeah.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Buy American
I'm not a 'shout it from the rooftops Republican' or a 'the south will rise again American,' but I do try to support goods made in the U.S. as much as possible. I didn't realize this until I was car shopping for an SUV a couple of weeks ago. Yeah, a 4Runner would have been nice and you can get a Honda Passport for a good price, but I ended up only looking at American made rigs. I wasn't making an entirely conscious effort to shun the others. It just worked out that way. Even though Chrysler and GMC got themselves into the mess they're in, I feel like it's our duty to support them as much as possible. Because if they go under, so does a huge piece of America. So now I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee and I like it.
I'm not a 'shout it from the rooftops Republican' or a 'the south will rise again American,' but I do try to support goods made in the U.S. as much as possible. I didn't realize this until I was car shopping for an SUV a couple of weeks ago. Yeah, a 4Runner would have been nice and you can get a Honda Passport for a good price, but I ended up only looking at American made rigs. I wasn't making an entirely conscious effort to shun the others. It just worked out that way. Even though Chrysler and GMC got themselves into the mess they're in, I feel like it's our duty to support them as much as possible. Because if they go under, so does a huge piece of America. So now I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee and I like it.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Tweet Marketing
I think more companies should utilize Twitter as a promotional tool that pays off. For example, if your a shoe company, you can send out a tweet saying that if you show up to the corner of 5th and main in the next five minutes you get a free pair of shoes. Bam! You reward the people who are paying attention to your brand. You also add excitement to your promotional giveaways. It's like back in the day when the hot air balloon would fly around town and if you were in the vicinity when it landed, you won a prize. Fun stuff. It would also give consumers more of a reason to have your tweets sent to their mobile devices.
I think more companies should utilize Twitter as a promotional tool that pays off. For example, if your a shoe company, you can send out a tweet saying that if you show up to the corner of 5th and main in the next five minutes you get a free pair of shoes. Bam! You reward the people who are paying attention to your brand. You also add excitement to your promotional giveaways. It's like back in the day when the hot air balloon would fly around town and if you were in the vicinity when it landed, you won a prize. Fun stuff. It would also give consumers more of a reason to have your tweets sent to their mobile devices.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Twitter?
Where is Twitter heading? I don't think much of anywhere. It's basically become a link fest. Companies are following individuals with the hopes that they will follow them back. Meanwhile their posts are just links to articles on the web or their blog. Perhaps it has outlived its current usefulness, at least as a new marketing tool. Emails accomplish the same thing. Now for friends sending out mass messages on where to meet up etc., I think it still has potential. Then again, I haven't put a whole lot of thought to this and could be entirely wrong.
Where is Twitter heading? I don't think much of anywhere. It's basically become a link fest. Companies are following individuals with the hopes that they will follow them back. Meanwhile their posts are just links to articles on the web or their blog. Perhaps it has outlived its current usefulness, at least as a new marketing tool. Emails accomplish the same thing. Now for friends sending out mass messages on where to meet up etc., I think it still has potential. Then again, I haven't put a whole lot of thought to this and could be entirely wrong.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Is that a GOP in your pants or are you just happy to see me?
Our bi-yearly political sex scandal came to fruition today as the the Governor of South Carolina, Mark Sanford, confessed to making a 7-day jaunt to Argentina to see his mistress. He said he cried for five of those days as he tried to figure out what he was doing with his life. To that I say, "Don't cry for me in Argentina."
He apologized to his wife and kids and basically everyone else in the known universe. On his behalf, at least it didn't have to pay for it like Eliot Spitzer. Although it might end up costing him a bigger role in the political realm. Did you see that guys, I made a play on words...Pay and Cost, that's rich Lucas. Holy crap, I did it again.
So to all of the wifes out there, the next time your man says he's going on a long hike through the Appalachian Mountains, you best be wary. Of course, you would already know that if you saw Brokeback Mountain.
Our bi-yearly political sex scandal came to fruition today as the the Governor of South Carolina, Mark Sanford, confessed to making a 7-day jaunt to Argentina to see his mistress. He said he cried for five of those days as he tried to figure out what he was doing with his life. To that I say, "Don't cry for me in Argentina."
He apologized to his wife and kids and basically everyone else in the known universe. On his behalf, at least it didn't have to pay for it like Eliot Spitzer. Although it might end up costing him a bigger role in the political realm. Did you see that guys, I made a play on words...Pay and Cost, that's rich Lucas. Holy crap, I did it again.
So to all of the wifes out there, the next time your man says he's going on a long hike through the Appalachian Mountains, you best be wary. Of course, you would already know that if you saw Brokeback Mountain.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Death Happens in 3s
So there it is, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and now Michael Jackson. I didn't see that 3rd one happening so quickly. And while this may come off as being distasteful, the networks are going to have a hard time fitting all of their 'Let's take a look back' specials into one week. Each celebrity was an icon in their own right. But since they all died in such a short time frame, they might not receive their deserved time in the public's reflective minds. It's a shame really.
So there it is, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and now Michael Jackson. I didn't see that 3rd one happening so quickly. And while this may come off as being distasteful, the networks are going to have a hard time fitting all of their 'Let's take a look back' specials into one week. Each celebrity was an icon in their own right. But since they all died in such a short time frame, they might not receive their deserved time in the public's reflective minds. It's a shame really.
Product Spot
There's a local company in Portland that's been around for a short while now, and I dig what they're doing. It's a golf apparel company called Lign. They cater to my age group. That being old enough to be responsible and young enough to feel lame about it. We embrace tradition while trying to carve out our slice of originality. We bet a beer on a par 3 KP and don't mind when we lose. We think the drink girl driving the cart is hot but won't make a fuss about it. We speak it like it is, but end it with a "sir." So Lign, I salute you. I'm excited to see what's next.
There's a local company in Portland that's been around for a short while now, and I dig what they're doing. It's a golf apparel company called Lign. They cater to my age group. That being old enough to be responsible and young enough to feel lame about it. We embrace tradition while trying to carve out our slice of originality. We bet a beer on a par 3 KP and don't mind when we lose. We think the drink girl driving the cart is hot but won't make a fuss about it. We speak it like it is, but end it with a "sir." So Lign, I salute you. I'm excited to see what's next.
Pass The Popcorn
Fired Up. This is a tough one to talk about. First off, my wife rented it on a whim. Secondly, I don't know if I've ever seen a preview for it, but she got it anyway. It's about 2 horny high school dudes who skip football camp to go to cheerleading camp in order to score with tons of chicks. I know. Oscar worthy.
The first half was horrid. The main characters tried way to hard to deliver one-liner after one-liner. In the guise of humor, they shed a negative light on sex-craved teens everywhere. That being said, once they got to cheer camp the script mellowed out a little and actually started to be funny.
I love the fact that Eric Christian Olsen (The Last Kiss; Dumb and Dumberer) is 31-years-old and can still play a high schooler. John Michael Higgins (Best in Show and the recent DirectTV ads) added some seasoned comedic timing by way of dry humor. And in the end, I was able to find merit in the overall experiece, despite the fact there wasn't any nudity. Bottom line: The first half sucked but the second half was pretty hilarious.
Fired Up. This is a tough one to talk about. First off, my wife rented it on a whim. Secondly, I don't know if I've ever seen a preview for it, but she got it anyway. It's about 2 horny high school dudes who skip football camp to go to cheerleading camp in order to score with tons of chicks. I know. Oscar worthy.
The first half was horrid. The main characters tried way to hard to deliver one-liner after one-liner. In the guise of humor, they shed a negative light on sex-craved teens everywhere. That being said, once they got to cheer camp the script mellowed out a little and actually started to be funny.
I love the fact that Eric Christian Olsen (The Last Kiss; Dumb and Dumberer) is 31-years-old and can still play a high schooler. John Michael Higgins (Best in Show and the recent DirectTV ads) added some seasoned comedic timing by way of dry humor. And in the end, I was able to find merit in the overall experiece, despite the fact there wasn't any nudity. Bottom line: The first half sucked but the second half was pretty hilarious.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Portland Brawlers
I think that's our team name anyway. The first game wasn't a total train wreck. We have a lot more talent on our team this year, but the rust was thicker than expected. I'm going to go ahead and take 70% of the blame for our first loss. I over-tricked uncontested layups (because I thought they would be contested) and flat out missed everything from beyond the arc. To make matters worse, I felt like my shot was close so I just kept shooting...and missing.
It always feels good, however, to run around like it's nobody's business for an hour, but hopefully we'll all have a little more luck next week when it comes to making our shots.
I think that's our team name anyway. The first game wasn't a total train wreck. We have a lot more talent on our team this year, but the rust was thicker than expected. I'm going to go ahead and take 70% of the blame for our first loss. I over-tricked uncontested layups (because I thought they would be contested) and flat out missed everything from beyond the arc. To make matters worse, I felt like my shot was close so I just kept shooting...and missing.
It always feels good, however, to run around like it's nobody's business for an hour, but hopefully we'll all have a little more luck next week when it comes to making our shots.
Pass the Popcorn
The Hangover is this summer's surprise comedic gem. And for good reason. It follows four friends (well three friends and a brother-in-law) to Vegas for a bachelor party. Need I say more?
It's genius in its randomness. Over-the-top without being completely ridiculous. And hilarious. I hate to talk up a movie too much because raised expectations can contribute to mild let downs, but The Hangover is definitely on par with Wedding Crashers and Old School.
My only problem was I saw the movie at a local theater that serves pizza and such. I ate too much and now I have a tummy ache. My bad.
The Hangover is this summer's surprise comedic gem. And for good reason. It follows four friends (well three friends and a brother-in-law) to Vegas for a bachelor party. Need I say more?
It's genius in its randomness. Over-the-top without being completely ridiculous. And hilarious. I hate to talk up a movie too much because raised expectations can contribute to mild let downs, but The Hangover is definitely on par with Wedding Crashers and Old School.
My only problem was I saw the movie at a local theater that serves pizza and such. I ate too much and now I have a tummy ache. My bad.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
North Korea Is Off It's Rocker
Seriously, North Korea. You're gonna start being the bully on the playground - threatening everyone with your nukes. By now most countries realize that a nuclear war would pretty much start a big enough sh** storm to destroy the entire planet. So instead of killing everyone, most dictators are simply trying to kill those around them. But North Korea has go ahead and grow a little-man complex.
We get it. Even though you're a small country with a short dictator, you're evil and strong with big guns. What's the allure of ruling the world anyway. Every country that tries to do, gets back handed eventually. If you want to be street rat crazy, can't you just keep to yourself like the crazy homeless man in the alley behind office.
Seriously, North Korea. You're gonna start being the bully on the playground - threatening everyone with your nukes. By now most countries realize that a nuclear war would pretty much start a big enough sh** storm to destroy the entire planet. So instead of killing everyone, most dictators are simply trying to kill those around them. But North Korea has go ahead and grow a little-man complex.
We get it. Even though you're a small country with a short dictator, you're evil and strong with big guns. What's the allure of ruling the world anyway. Every country that tries to do, gets back handed eventually. If you want to be street rat crazy, can't you just keep to yourself like the crazy homeless man in the alley behind office.
What's up with your blog, girly man?
So apparently my last blog template was a little too girly. It was so girly in fact, that my female coworker told me that she wouldn't even use it as her template. I just thought it was brown. But apparently brown with tan things in the background goes from being manly brown to just plain girly Victorian.
So to make sure I can still keep my man card in tact, I changed my template to this neutral design. And just in case that wasn't enough I also chugged a beer, cleaned my rifle, sharpened my chainsaw, and watched some baseball.
And instead of doing a 25-minute fitness routine on Comcast this evening, I'm gonna do some pullups. Phew, that was a close one. Thanks Heather and Lisa for setting me straight. No pun intended.
So apparently my last blog template was a little too girly. It was so girly in fact, that my female coworker told me that she wouldn't even use it as her template. I just thought it was brown. But apparently brown with tan things in the background goes from being manly brown to just plain girly Victorian.
So to make sure I can still keep my man card in tact, I changed my template to this neutral design. And just in case that wasn't enough I also chugged a beer, cleaned my rifle, sharpened my chainsaw, and watched some baseball.
And instead of doing a 25-minute fitness routine on Comcast this evening, I'm gonna do some pullups. Phew, that was a close one. Thanks Heather and Lisa for setting me straight. No pun intended.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Nokia has created a cell phone technology that harvests ambient radio waves from the air to help keep it charged. It weirds me out to think that I'm wading through random radio waves all day long. They're like giant cobwebs that we can't see. It's a good thing too. Can you imagine walking through that many cobwebs. Now that would suck.
Pass the Popcorn
Grand Tarino follows a racist old Korean War vet as he reflects on his past after the death of his wife. Living in a neighborhood full of Asian immigrants and surrounded by senseless violence, Clint Eastwood's character, Walt, finds it difficult to keep to himself as the situation deteriorates around him.
As many have already mentioned this movie is basically Dirty Harry years after retirement. Even though Clint starts the film off with some heavy-handed acting and the plot takes some time to develop, I was fully on board by the end. The supporting cast was mediocre at best but anything dealing with revenge and Clint Eastwood is worth a go. I particularly liked how the script didn't rely on the easy solution to the presented conflict. And the comedic aspects were unexpected but appreciated.
So grab a six pack, gut it up through the first 25 minutes, and enjoy the rest.
Grand Tarino follows a racist old Korean War vet as he reflects on his past after the death of his wife. Living in a neighborhood full of Asian immigrants and surrounded by senseless violence, Clint Eastwood's character, Walt, finds it difficult to keep to himself as the situation deteriorates around him.
As many have already mentioned this movie is basically Dirty Harry years after retirement. Even though Clint starts the film off with some heavy-handed acting and the plot takes some time to develop, I was fully on board by the end. The supporting cast was mediocre at best but anything dealing with revenge and Clint Eastwood is worth a go. I particularly liked how the script didn't rely on the easy solution to the presented conflict. And the comedic aspects were unexpected but appreciated.
So grab a six pack, gut it up through the first 25 minutes, and enjoy the rest.
The replacement ride
Here's my new ride. Well new to me anyways. Downgrading in type of vehicle actually allowed me to upgrade in options, so now I'm sporting leather seats and a moon roof, which is nice. More than that, Malinda loves it, and that always makes things better. So here's to saving money and nestling into my role as a yuppy. Cheers.
Here's my new ride. Well new to me anyways. Downgrading in type of vehicle actually allowed me to upgrade in options, so now I'm sporting leather seats and a moon roof, which is nice. More than that, Malinda loves it, and that always makes things better. So here's to saving money and nestling into my role as a yuppy. Cheers.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Heineken Spots a miss?
Heineken has released two new spots to be aired internationally and on it's website areyoustillwithus.com. I will note that the spots were produced through the agency JWT and are primarily used internationally.
Both spots are close to good but definitely fall short of the "Walk-in Closet" and "Walking Fridge" spots that came out earlier this year. More than anything, I think the tagline "are you still with us" isn't strong enough to carry a campaign about beer. It's a line that would work better with Chevrolet's reinvention campaign. That's my take anyway.
Heineken has released two new spots to be aired internationally and on it's website areyoustillwithus.com. I will note that the spots were produced through the agency JWT and are primarily used internationally.
Both spots are close to good but definitely fall short of the "Walk-in Closet" and "Walking Fridge" spots that came out earlier this year. More than anything, I think the tagline "are you still with us" isn't strong enough to carry a campaign about beer. It's a line that would work better with Chevrolet's reinvention campaign. That's my take anyway.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Sad
An 88-year-old white supremacist shot up the Holocaust museum today. One person was killed. I have to say that this is just sad. Dudes got one foot in the grave and he still can't stop hating. And for what? What's the point of shooting up a museum that marks the suffering of millions of Jewish people? (I was going to says Jews, but for some reason it didn't sound right - thoughts). First he's got to hate on other races, and then he decides, "hey why stop there, I might as well hate everyone that's not like me."
There's a special place in hell for people like that. Unfortunately, that doesn't save the people whose lives they've already ruined.
An 88-year-old white supremacist shot up the Holocaust museum today. One person was killed. I have to say that this is just sad. Dudes got one foot in the grave and he still can't stop hating. And for what? What's the point of shooting up a museum that marks the suffering of millions of Jewish people? (I was going to says Jews, but for some reason it didn't sound right - thoughts). First he's got to hate on other races, and then he decides, "hey why stop there, I might as well hate everyone that's not like me."
There's a special place in hell for people like that. Unfortunately, that doesn't save the people whose lives they've already ruined.
Whale Wars
My wife decided to hang out with some coworkers last night, which left me home alone with nothing to do. My idle hands finally found the second season premiere of The Discovery Channel's Whale Wars.
The show chronicles the efforts of Australian Whale activists as they try to disrupt the Japanese 'research' whaling season in the Antarctic. Aboard the aging ship, Steve Irwin, the activists attempt to stop the Japanese with homemade stink bombs and a constant barrage of threats.
Even though I disagree with this type of activism (the whalers are completely within their rights to be there, so the protesters are really borderline eco-terrorists), it is a gripping set up. I will say that the only reason the whalers are within their legal rights is because they conducting research, a facade and convenient loophole according the crew of the Steve Irwin. These extremely passionate people are putting their lives on the line to save the whales. They are risking the safety of the boat, the safety of the whalers, and the film crew. Of course everyone knows what they're getting into, but if something bad were to happen in the middle of the Antarctic, help would be a long ways away. Of course, this adds to the tension.
Whale Wars is like the Deadliest Catch with a cause. I enjoyed the drama and since I'm not an activist, I found it very intersting to get inside the psyche of these passionate people. I don't with their level of protest, but I probably end up watching the show anyways, thus supporting their cause indirectly.
My wife decided to hang out with some coworkers last night, which left me home alone with nothing to do. My idle hands finally found the second season premiere of The Discovery Channel's Whale Wars.The show chronicles the efforts of Australian Whale activists as they try to disrupt the Japanese 'research' whaling season in the Antarctic. Aboard the aging ship, Steve Irwin, the activists attempt to stop the Japanese with homemade stink bombs and a constant barrage of threats.
Even though I disagree with this type of activism (the whalers are completely within their rights to be there, so the protesters are really borderline eco-terrorists), it is a gripping set up. I will say that the only reason the whalers are within their legal rights is because they conducting research, a facade and convenient loophole according the crew of the Steve Irwin. These extremely passionate people are putting their lives on the line to save the whales. They are risking the safety of the boat, the safety of the whalers, and the film crew. Of course everyone knows what they're getting into, but if something bad were to happen in the middle of the Antarctic, help would be a long ways away. Of course, this adds to the tension.
Whale Wars is like the Deadliest Catch with a cause. I enjoyed the drama and since I'm not an activist, I found it very intersting to get inside the psyche of these passionate people. I don't with their level of protest, but I probably end up watching the show anyways, thus supporting their cause indirectly.
Insomnia
Due to circumstances partially beyond my control, I've been feeling a little bit of stress lately. Unfortunately, that stress has destroyed my sleeping habits. In the last four nights, it has taken me on average 3 hours to fall asleep. And once I do fall asleep, I wake up repeatedly.
It's been awhile since I've had this much trouble getting my zzzs. Even with the new baby, I slept more.
I'm like a walking zombie - slow, puffy eyes, confused, and hungry for brains. Hopefully, I can figure my stuff out over the next couple of days because it won't take many more sleepless nights to render me completely useless.
Due to circumstances partially beyond my control, I've been feeling a little bit of stress lately. Unfortunately, that stress has destroyed my sleeping habits. In the last four nights, it has taken me on average 3 hours to fall asleep. And once I do fall asleep, I wake up repeatedly.
It's been awhile since I've had this much trouble getting my zzzs. Even with the new baby, I slept more.
I'm like a walking zombie - slow, puffy eyes, confused, and hungry for brains. Hopefully, I can figure my stuff out over the next couple of days because it won't take many more sleepless nights to render me completely useless.
Monday, June 08, 2009
MMA at Midnight Thirty
Battling my recent stint of insomnia, I found myself enthralled in the recent bout between MMA stars Urijah Faber and Mike Brown. This was the second time they've met in the Octagon - the first of which Faber lost my knockout.
Despite being thought of as an overrated golden boy from California by many, Faber put up a huge effort to keep this second fight close. He had a strong first round, opening up Brown's left eye. But halfway through the first five minutes, Faber landed a punch that broke his right hand, an obvious disadvantage for the rest of the night. He adapted his game by throwing elbows, but was unable to defend Brown's ground game. Perhaps a more aggressive ground attack of his own would have been a better option than the elbows, but it's easy to judge when I'm knock getting my head punched in.
The match went to a judges decision that ended in favor of Brown - an obvious victory. However, I have to take my hat off to the California kid for fighting for 25 minutes with a crushed hand. When he took off his gloves at the end of the match, his hand was the size of an orange. And if I know anything about fighting, Brown was glad that he won, but disappointed that he couldn't fight a 100% Faber.
It was a spectacular fight, but many will look at it as being largely incomplete.
Battling my recent stint of insomnia, I found myself enthralled in the recent bout between MMA stars Urijah Faber and Mike Brown. This was the second time they've met in the Octagon - the first of which Faber lost my knockout.
Despite being thought of as an overrated golden boy from California by many, Faber put up a huge effort to keep this second fight close. He had a strong first round, opening up Brown's left eye. But halfway through the first five minutes, Faber landed a punch that broke his right hand, an obvious disadvantage for the rest of the night. He adapted his game by throwing elbows, but was unable to defend Brown's ground game. Perhaps a more aggressive ground attack of his own would have been a better option than the elbows, but it's easy to judge when I'm knock getting my head punched in.
The match went to a judges decision that ended in favor of Brown - an obvious victory. However, I have to take my hat off to the California kid for fighting for 25 minutes with a crushed hand. When he took off his gloves at the end of the match, his hand was the size of an orange. And if I know anything about fighting, Brown was glad that he won, but disappointed that he couldn't fight a 100% Faber.
It was a spectacular fight, but many will look at it as being largely incomplete.
Pass the Popcorn
Yes Man is about a banker named Carl (Jim Carrey) who's life is so full of disappointment that he challenges himself to say yes to everything in order to shake things up. With a similar comedic style to Liar Liar, Carrey goes back to the basics. Despite having a slow first act, I actually found myself laughing quite a bit during his various escapades. The always lovely Zooey Deschanel is too carefree for reality, but I was able to let it slide because she's cute. And Terence Stamp delivers a strong supporting role as the man behind the Yes.
Was it ground breaking? No. Was it as strong as Liar Liar? No. Was it worth watching? Yes. Yes! See, saying yes already changing my life.
Yes Man is about a banker named Carl (Jim Carrey) who's life is so full of disappointment that he challenges himself to say yes to everything in order to shake things up. With a similar comedic style to Liar Liar, Carrey goes back to the basics. Despite having a slow first act, I actually found myself laughing quite a bit during his various escapades. The always lovely Zooey Deschanel is too carefree for reality, but I was able to let it slide because she's cute. And Terence Stamp delivers a strong supporting role as the man behind the Yes.
Was it ground breaking? No. Was it as strong as Liar Liar? No. Was it worth watching? Yes. Yes! See, saying yes already changing my life.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Morons...
I hate selling things on Craigslist. Not because it's hard but because people are annoying. There's nothing worse than writing a 3 paragraph post describing an object, then having people call and the first thing out of there mouth is 'so what can you tell me about it?'
Seriously, I've already described it at length. What else to you want to know? My dumbbells enjoy being used in the evening or my truck really likes going fast. If you have a question, ask your question or learn how to read. It's not that difficult.
I hate selling things on Craigslist. Not because it's hard but because people are annoying. There's nothing worse than writing a 3 paragraph post describing an object, then having people call and the first thing out of there mouth is 'so what can you tell me about it?'
Seriously, I've already described it at length. What else to you want to know? My dumbbells enjoy being used in the evening or my truck really likes going fast. If you have a question, ask your question or learn how to read. It's not that difficult.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Breaking News....Really
A massive storm ripped through Portland yesterday over the course of 2 hours. It's true that there was heavy rain, powerful winds, and ominous skies, but once again the local media would have you believe that Doomsday was upon us.
Every local station cut into breaking news showing us potted plants tipped over on porches and the occasional downed tree. So just in case you couldn't look out your window, you would know that the wind was a whipping.
The most annoying spot was when the news station decided to show us 5-minutes of user footage, which was less than amazing and borderline lame. But there I was watching with the rest of the city. Not because I wanted to, but because they cut into my regularly scheduled program.
A massive storm ripped through Portland yesterday over the course of 2 hours. It's true that there was heavy rain, powerful winds, and ominous skies, but once again the local media would have you believe that Doomsday was upon us.
Every local station cut into breaking news showing us potted plants tipped over on porches and the occasional downed tree. So just in case you couldn't look out your window, you would know that the wind was a whipping.
The most annoying spot was when the news station decided to show us 5-minutes of user footage, which was less than amazing and borderline lame. But there I was watching with the rest of the city. Not because I wanted to, but because they cut into my regularly scheduled program.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Actor David Carradine Found Dead
The famous actor from TV's Kung Fu and the cult classic Kill Bill was found dead in Bangkok. On a serious note, he will be absolutely missed in the entertainment industry.
On a "seriously" note, he was found naked and appeared to have hung himself in the closet of his luxury hotel room. I can't help but immediately think that this was a sexcapade gone wrong. Somewhere in Bangkok there's a prostitute who knows way too much and a pimp who's is keeping her quiet.
Honestly, who would strip down naked before hanging themselves. It just seems a little to awkward.
The famous actor from TV's Kung Fu and the cult classic Kill Bill was found dead in Bangkok. On a serious note, he will be absolutely missed in the entertainment industry.
On a "seriously" note, he was found naked and appeared to have hung himself in the closet of his luxury hotel room. I can't help but immediately think that this was a sexcapade gone wrong. Somewhere in Bangkok there's a prostitute who knows way too much and a pimp who's is keeping her quiet.
Honestly, who would strip down naked before hanging themselves. It just seems a little to awkward.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
UFC
I went on a photo shoot/workout with UFC fighter Nate Quarry today. I learned two things. First, I will never pick a fight with anyone unless I know for certain that they are NOT a UFC fighter. Second, I'm pretty sure Nate could kick my head off of my body. He could literally detach my appendages by force. On TV it doesn't look so bad. In person....I wet myself a little. 
I went on a photo shoot/workout with UFC fighter Nate Quarry today. I learned two things. First, I will never pick a fight with anyone unless I know for certain that they are NOT a UFC fighter. Second, I'm pretty sure Nate could kick my head off of my body. He could literally detach my appendages by force. On TV it doesn't look so bad. In person....I wet myself a little.
The Eminem stunt at this years MTV Movie Awards turned out to be staged. I had suspected this much, but Cohen is just crazy enough to put a little doubt in my mind. Eminem didn't react with the quick sense of repultion I would have suspected, but after a short debate with the Mrs., we decided it was a pluasible outcome. I guess we just got punked...and no Ashton jumping out from behind the corner. So sad.
Monday, June 01, 2009
OnlineShoes.com
I'm not one to be loyal to stores, but I've recently become a fan of onlineshoes.com. They typically carry a lot of product that I can't seem to find in stores, and everything I'm looking for seems to be on sale. Not to mention every time I order something, they email me a $10-off coupon code.
Take these Asics I just bought. I ordered them on Friday night, received free shipping, paid only $29 for them, and they came to my house Monday (today) morning. That's ridiculously quick and efficient.
I'm not one to be loyal to stores, but I've recently become a fan of onlineshoes.com. They typically carry a lot of product that I can't seem to find in stores, and everything I'm looking for seems to be on sale. Not to mention every time I order something, they email me a $10-off coupon code.
Take these Asics I just bought. I ordered them on Friday night, received free shipping, paid only $29 for them, and they came to my house Monday (today) morning. That's ridiculously quick and efficient.
I hate listening to any sort of talk radio and hearing a caller say, "Long time listener, first time caller." Really... news flash, no one really cares. In fact, you'll probably follow that statement up with some ill-conceived rambling about a subject you only vaguely relate to.
Just because you have listened for a long time doesn't make what you're about to say any more or less asinine. And when it comes down to it, the DJs aren't gonna like you any more either.
Just because you have listened for a long time doesn't make what you're about to say any more or less asinine. And when it comes down to it, the DJs aren't gonna like you any more either.
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