So I have had numerous enquirers about what my hours are in the Writing Center next week. So, to satisfy all those curious minds, here is my work schedule for the Writing Center next week:
Monday, 12/13/10
9am – 11am
5pm – 7pm
Tuesday, 12/14/10
9am – 10am
1pm – 2pm
Wednesday, 12/15/10
9am – 10am
12pm – 2pm
Thursday, 12/16/10
12pm – 1pm
Friday, 12/17/10
12pm – 2pm
WE MOVED! Check out the new and improved blog here: http://shieldsysymposium.wordpress.com/
Friday, December 10, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Something New!!: 1st Edition of Wednesday's Words... Read and Enjoy...
Hello All!
So, I am trying a new segment that I thought of for my blog. This new idea is entitled, “Wednesday’s Words.” Basically, every Wednesday, as the name explains, I will pick three words. Most likely, it will be some words of the day that I receive a few times a week on my phone or it may just be ones that I hear during the week that I want to use.
Anyhoo, after these words are selected, I will go to work.
I will start by defining the word, for you English types, and give the word in a sentence. Following the technical stuff, I will then take the word and write a paragraph on it. It may not be on the word precisely, but it will be whatever I think of using that word as a prompt. Hopefully this will branch off to more posting, but it’s a good start for now.
Feel free to leave comments on this idea or suggest more if you have any. I hope this helps increase your vocabulary and enables you to have a bigger list of words
to use in your own writings and everyday lives.
So without further ado, here is the first annual Wednesday’s Words:
Words for Wednesday, December 8th
Adjective: Pleasing to the senses: The newly baked cookies made the entire house smell ambrosial.
This may just be one of my favorite new words. I mean it’s a word that encompasses all the sense; smell, taste, touch, sight, and sound. There are endless ways to use this word, and isn’t that the best type of word there is? It could describe the scent of your mom’s home cooking, the taste of a newly baked batch of cookies, a pretty new car that drives past you on the hallway, a new song from your favorite artist, or even the smooth texture of a warm blanket on a cold winter night.
The versatility of the word makes it even more desirable. Have a descriptive essay to write? Boy, this is a perfect word to use in that instance. Having said that, I hope you find this blog both ambrosial and entertaining!
Noun: A punishment or fate that someone deserves: After all the cheating that Chaz took part in, that failing grade was his comeuppance.
I actually never knew that this was even a word. I had seen it one of my novels this year that I read, but I guess novels don’t have to use real words all time. Do I know some people who I wish would get their comeuppance? Well of course I do, but doesn’t everybody?
The thing about this particular word is that, people always associate with negative ideas. However, not everybody deserves a negative comeuppance. Some people have earned a positive one. Make sure they get that chance! People are so negative these days and they need to look at the positive! Think positively people for your own sakes! Negative thinking can only lead to bad things!
Noun: Being Conceited: The problem with many people these days is the egotism that they constantly show towards others making outsiders dislike them greatly.
Oh the many ways I could discuss this word. I have a number of people that I know whose egos are way too big for their own good. Now you may feel sorry for these people, but I wouldn’t. These seem to be the same people who are beloved by others around them.
The idea of having a “big ego” is often pictured as a bad thing, but how come these guys are honored as the “cool” kids in society? Maybe it’s just at this tiny school, that I call home, that is happens or maybe it’s everywhere. I don’t know. All I know is that it confuses the hell out of me at times.
Adjective: Talkative: Loquacious people are often the worst people to have a phone conversation with since they never stop talking!
If there is one thing about talkative or loquacious people, it is that they are the worst people to be in a class with. Now if this person is obnoxious and likes to interject their opinions on every single topic it is nearly unbearable. I’ve had classes with loudmouths, and if there is any way to combat them at all, it may be to just be even louder than they are.
I have an aunt that is very loquacious as well. She cannot seem to stop talking on the phone. Classes come and classes go and you can rid yourself of your talkative classmates after a semester, but relatives are an entirely different story. I love my aunt, but at times, I wish she was a little quieter.
Adjective: Extraordinarily generous: The doctor made a munificent donation to the new hospital wing.
This may be another one of my favorite words. I mean you can be generous, and then you can be munificent. Anybody can be generous, but it takes a true person to step it up. I guess I look at it like an exceptional case of generosity. It doesn’t happen often.
People don’t get that you don’t need a lot of money or possessions to be generous. Giving a friend your time to listen and help them with their problem is a way to be generous. Just being a good friend is generosity. Friendship implies giving of yourself for others and that type of giving may be the great kind. So, in short, don’t feel like you have something to give, because you always do.
So that’s it for my first edition of Wednesday’s Words. I hope you enjoy this feature and I look forward to hearing your feedback on whether to keep it or not.
Note: I do plan to start a running list of all the words I used as “dictionary” on here. Next Wednesday, I will relist these 5 words at the top; just the words and definitions so you have them and each Wednesday I will add the previous words to the top of the list and slowly build that list.
Until we meet again my fair readers, Good Night and Happy Readings.
So, I am trying a new segment that I thought of for my blog. This new idea is entitled, “Wednesday’s Words.” Basically, every Wednesday, as the name explains, I will pick three words. Most likely, it will be some words of the day that I receive a few times a week on my phone or it may just be ones that I hear during the week that I want to use.
Anyhoo, after these words are selected, I will go to work.
I will start by defining the word, for you English types, and give the word in a sentence. Following the technical stuff, I will then take the word and write a paragraph on it. It may not be on the word precisely, but it will be whatever I think of using that word as a prompt. Hopefully this will branch off to more posting, but it’s a good start for now.
Feel free to leave comments on this idea or suggest more if you have any. I hope this helps increase your vocabulary and enables you to have a bigger list of words
to use in your own writings and everyday lives.
So without further ado, here is the first annual Wednesday’s Words:
Words for Wednesday, December 8th
Ambrosial
Adjective: Pleasing to the senses: The newly baked cookies made the entire house smell ambrosial.
This may just be one of my favorite new words. I mean it’s a word that encompasses all the sense; smell, taste, touch, sight, and sound. There are endless ways to use this word, and isn’t that the best type of word there is? It could describe the scent of your mom’s home cooking, the taste of a newly baked batch of cookies, a pretty new car that drives past you on the hallway, a new song from your favorite artist, or even the smooth texture of a warm blanket on a cold winter night.
The versatility of the word makes it even more desirable. Have a descriptive essay to write? Boy, this is a perfect word to use in that instance. Having said that, I hope you find this blog both ambrosial and entertaining!
Comeuppance
Noun: A punishment or fate that someone deserves: After all the cheating that Chaz took part in, that failing grade was his comeuppance.
I actually never knew that this was even a word. I had seen it one of my novels this year that I read, but I guess novels don’t have to use real words all time. Do I know some people who I wish would get their comeuppance? Well of course I do, but doesn’t everybody?
The thing about this particular word is that, people always associate with negative ideas. However, not everybody deserves a negative comeuppance. Some people have earned a positive one. Make sure they get that chance! People are so negative these days and they need to look at the positive! Think positively people for your own sakes! Negative thinking can only lead to bad things!
Egotism
Noun: Being Conceited: The problem with many people these days is the egotism that they constantly show towards others making outsiders dislike them greatly.
Oh the many ways I could discuss this word. I have a number of people that I know whose egos are way too big for their own good. Now you may feel sorry for these people, but I wouldn’t. These seem to be the same people who are beloved by others around them.
The idea of having a “big ego” is often pictured as a bad thing, but how come these guys are honored as the “cool” kids in society? Maybe it’s just at this tiny school, that I call home, that is happens or maybe it’s everywhere. I don’t know. All I know is that it confuses the hell out of me at times.
Loquacious
Adjective: Talkative: Loquacious people are often the worst people to have a phone conversation with since they never stop talking!
If there is one thing about talkative or loquacious people, it is that they are the worst people to be in a class with. Now if this person is obnoxious and likes to interject their opinions on every single topic it is nearly unbearable. I’ve had classes with loudmouths, and if there is any way to combat them at all, it may be to just be even louder than they are.
I have an aunt that is very loquacious as well. She cannot seem to stop talking on the phone. Classes come and classes go and you can rid yourself of your talkative classmates after a semester, but relatives are an entirely different story. I love my aunt, but at times, I wish she was a little quieter.
Munificent
Adjective: Extraordinarily generous: The doctor made a munificent donation to the new hospital wing.
This may be another one of my favorite words. I mean you can be generous, and then you can be munificent. Anybody can be generous, but it takes a true person to step it up. I guess I look at it like an exceptional case of generosity. It doesn’t happen often.
People don’t get that you don’t need a lot of money or possessions to be generous. Giving a friend your time to listen and help them with their problem is a way to be generous. Just being a good friend is generosity. Friendship implies giving of yourself for others and that type of giving may be the great kind. So, in short, don’t feel like you have something to give, because you always do.
So that’s it for my first edition of Wednesday’s Words. I hope you enjoy this feature and I look forward to hearing your feedback on whether to keep it or not.
Note: I do plan to start a running list of all the words I used as “dictionary” on here. Next Wednesday, I will relist these 5 words at the top; just the words and definitions so you have them and each Wednesday I will add the previous words to the top of the list and slowly build that list.
Until we meet again my fair readers, Good Night and Happy Readings.
Help Wanted: Ideas Needed
So, my devout readers, I need your help.
I am looking for blogging ideas. I want to find something that I can do daily, or at the very worst, weekly. It could be the word of the day, or maybe even a countdown or some sort. I have been thinking for a while and cannot pinpoint exactly what I want to do.
This is where you come in. I need your creative minds to help me. Leave me a message on here or comment on this post and let me know.
All suggestions will be considered.
Thanks in advance!
John
I am looking for blogging ideas. I want to find something that I can do daily, or at the very worst, weekly. It could be the word of the day, or maybe even a countdown or some sort. I have been thinking for a while and cannot pinpoint exactly what I want to do.
This is where you come in. I need your creative minds to help me. Leave me a message on here or comment on this post and let me know.
All suggestions will be considered.
Thanks in advance!
John
Time to Be Spontaneous!
I did something out of the ordinary and spontaneous today, and no, I don’t mean posting on this blog although it has been awhile and I am trying to fix that.
I was browsing Five for Fighting’s website, and discovered there was an email link. So, I took the initiative and sent an email to the great John Ondrasik, one of the greatest artists of our generation and the head man behind this excellent band.
I’m not expecting a response, although I wouldn’t mind getting one as those famous guys are often too busy to respond to all of their fan emails.
I guess, I will just have to wait and be patient. Pay attention for future updates of this situation.
Until we meet again, Good day to all.
I was browsing Five for Fighting’s website, and discovered there was an email link. So, I took the initiative and sent an email to the great John Ondrasik, one of the greatest artists of our generation and the head man behind this excellent band.
I’m not expecting a response, although I wouldn’t mind getting one as those famous guys are often too busy to respond to all of their fan emails.
I guess, I will just have to wait and be patient. Pay attention for future updates of this situation.
Until we meet again, Good day to all.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
What I am Thankful For
This is the time of year when people really begin to think about what they’re thankful for. I hope people don’t need this holiday to remind them to be grateful for what they have. As with Veterans Day and honoring the troops, I think remembering these important things and being thankful for them are a year round affair and shouldn’t be constrained to a single day.
However, I am going to sound a little hypocritical here, but I am going to do a post here on what I am truly thankful for. This may be the most sincere post that I have ever posted on here. Here now are the things I am thankful this time of the year:
I know it sounds a bit cliché, but my family is the top on my list. I don’t see how someone’s family would not the top of their list. Families are the people that care about you. They are always there for you when you need someone to listen, support, and comfort you when you need it. My family is no different. I will admit that there are rough spots, but in the end, they were always there for me when I needed it. I cannot thank them enough for this, and I know there are times that I am not particularly good at showing it, but deep down, I am extremely grateful for everything they do for me.
Next on my list are my close friends. I will not name names, but you know who you are. There aren’t many of you, but I cannot be more grateful for the small contingent of you that I call my close friends. You stuck by me even in my darkest of times and never gave up on me in the end. For this, I thank you with every inch of my being. I’ve been on this Earth for over 22 years now, and I wouldn’t have made it without you guys. Thank you all for everything.
I am thankful for my writing ability. Without this gift, I would not be able to communication with you guys through this medium. I have been lucky enough to win a few awards for my writing and I am very appreciative of those as well. It is my strongest talent, and one that I take great pride in and am very grateful for.
Another thing I am grateful for are you my devoted readers. I know that there hasn’t been a non-Phillies post for a while, and this is something I am trying to rectify. Thank you to the readers who stuck by me even with the large breaks between posts and actually care enough to read what I have to say. You will be rewarded for your efforts sometime down the line, I am just not sure how yet.
The rest of the things on my list are intangible. The first is the opportunities to an education that I have been given. I have been given over 12 years of strong catholic education and I value every moment of it. Right now, I am a senior at a strong university and am less than 6 months from graduation. I cannot believe how fast that the time has gone. I have been given a great opportunity and I am very thankful for it. Education is something that not everyone has the luxury of, and those who do have it, need to realize what a privilege it truly is.
For anyone else who has helped shaped me to become who I am today. Whether it would be teachers, neighbors, or employers, I am thankful for anyone who has helped me in discovering who I truly am in life. The search is long from over, but I am happily on my way.
I am thankful for the wonderful medium that is music. Music does so much to us. It can comfort us, teach us, bring us joy and love, make us think about ourselves, and give us clearer meanings to things that have happened. It can be our friend when we’re lonely or our courage when doing something we are unsure about. It is a truly a wonderful thing to have in our lives and I think it is something that everyone needs.
I’m sure nobody is surprised to hear this, but I am thankful for the Phillies. I am grateful for the fact that I have gotten to live during one of, if not the greatest stretches, in Phillies history. The chance to see your favorite win a championship, in person, is not something that every single person gets, and the fact that I got to witness Game 5: Part 2 of the 2008 World Series is something that I am extremely thankful for and is also something that I will never forget. It was the greatest moment of my life.
The final thing that I am thankful is the gift of life I have been given and everything that goes along with it. Life is such a precious thing to have and one should treasure what they have and not try to change it for anyone. Living a fake life is a lie and really shows the lack of appreciation for the wonderful gift of living. While it is true that there are many obstacles that one encounters throughout life, just simply knowing that life is short, yet plentiful aids in pushing me along on a daily basis.
Without this blessing of life, I would be absolutely nothing. I know that sounds silly and obvious, but it is 100% true. Life needs to be embraced, not thrown away and left to die. We, as a living community, need to work together to find who we truly are. If we did not have life, then this would not be possible and we would waste away to nothingness. I’m sure you heard this old cliché before, but it is something that one never grows too old to hear.
However, I am going to sound a little hypocritical here, but I am going to do a post here on what I am truly thankful for. This may be the most sincere post that I have ever posted on here. Here now are the things I am thankful this time of the year:
I know it sounds a bit cliché, but my family is the top on my list. I don’t see how someone’s family would not the top of their list. Families are the people that care about you. They are always there for you when you need someone to listen, support, and comfort you when you need it. My family is no different. I will admit that there are rough spots, but in the end, they were always there for me when I needed it. I cannot thank them enough for this, and I know there are times that I am not particularly good at showing it, but deep down, I am extremely grateful for everything they do for me.
Next on my list are my close friends. I will not name names, but you know who you are. There aren’t many of you, but I cannot be more grateful for the small contingent of you that I call my close friends. You stuck by me even in my darkest of times and never gave up on me in the end. For this, I thank you with every inch of my being. I’ve been on this Earth for over 22 years now, and I wouldn’t have made it without you guys. Thank you all for everything.
I am thankful for my writing ability. Without this gift, I would not be able to communication with you guys through this medium. I have been lucky enough to win a few awards for my writing and I am very appreciative of those as well. It is my strongest talent, and one that I take great pride in and am very grateful for.
Another thing I am grateful for are you my devoted readers. I know that there hasn’t been a non-Phillies post for a while, and this is something I am trying to rectify. Thank you to the readers who stuck by me even with the large breaks between posts and actually care enough to read what I have to say. You will be rewarded for your efforts sometime down the line, I am just not sure how yet.
The rest of the things on my list are intangible. The first is the opportunities to an education that I have been given. I have been given over 12 years of strong catholic education and I value every moment of it. Right now, I am a senior at a strong university and am less than 6 months from graduation. I cannot believe how fast that the time has gone. I have been given a great opportunity and I am very thankful for it. Education is something that not everyone has the luxury of, and those who do have it, need to realize what a privilege it truly is.
For anyone else who has helped shaped me to become who I am today. Whether it would be teachers, neighbors, or employers, I am thankful for anyone who has helped me in discovering who I truly am in life. The search is long from over, but I am happily on my way.
I am thankful for the wonderful medium that is music. Music does so much to us. It can comfort us, teach us, bring us joy and love, make us think about ourselves, and give us clearer meanings to things that have happened. It can be our friend when we’re lonely or our courage when doing something we are unsure about. It is a truly a wonderful thing to have in our lives and I think it is something that everyone needs.
I’m sure nobody is surprised to hear this, but I am thankful for the Phillies. I am grateful for the fact that I have gotten to live during one of, if not the greatest stretches, in Phillies history. The chance to see your favorite win a championship, in person, is not something that every single person gets, and the fact that I got to witness Game 5: Part 2 of the 2008 World Series is something that I am extremely thankful for and is also something that I will never forget. It was the greatest moment of my life.
The final thing that I am thankful is the gift of life I have been given and everything that goes along with it. Life is such a precious thing to have and one should treasure what they have and not try to change it for anyone. Living a fake life is a lie and really shows the lack of appreciation for the wonderful gift of living. While it is true that there are many obstacles that one encounters throughout life, just simply knowing that life is short, yet plentiful aids in pushing me along on a daily basis.
Without this blessing of life, I would be absolutely nothing. I know that sounds silly and obvious, but it is 100% true. Life needs to be embraced, not thrown away and left to die. We, as a living community, need to work together to find who we truly are. If we did not have life, then this would not be possible and we would waste away to nothingness. I’m sure you heard this old cliché before, but it is something that one never grows too old to hear.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
You Miss 100% of the Shots You Don't Take
A friend came to me the other day looking for advice on a problem concerning his love life. Now, I won't give any details, since he put his trust in me, and I'm not exactly sure why I am posting this, but here it goes.
Why he came to me, I wasn't sure. I may not the most experienced man in the field he was asking about, but I did my best to help him. After hearing him out, I gave advice that could also serve me well and so many others out there right now.
The advice was this:
Don’t keep your mouth shut. If you have something to say; then just go right out an say it. Don't keep feelings bottled up. The worst thing a person can possibly do is not say what is on their mind. There are things that should be said and things that shouldn’t be said and, with matters such as this, I think those types of things should be said. Contrary to what most people seem to think, It is really never really too late to reveal your true feelings.
The outcome shouldn’t matter. The fact that you put yourself out there is all that does. You can’t live your life wondering what if… I once saw a poster that said “You miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take”. How true that is. You can’t fail at something if you don’t try at it to begin with it. That’s only logical. If you don’t try, then you live with that guilt for the rest of your life and it eats at you daily.
Now, I won’t go into detail about how this applies to me, but those close to me know exactly what I am talking about. I can testify that the things you don’t do are the ones that bug you more than what you did and regret. At least you tried, you may regret it, but at least you had the courage to do something. Some of us just sit in the shadows cowering from what we should be doing since we fear the possible outcome although there is no way to know what can happen until you actually try it.
I hope he did take my advice. Good luck!
Why he came to me, I wasn't sure. I may not the most experienced man in the field he was asking about, but I did my best to help him. After hearing him out, I gave advice that could also serve me well and so many others out there right now.
The advice was this:
Don’t keep your mouth shut. If you have something to say; then just go right out an say it. Don't keep feelings bottled up. The worst thing a person can possibly do is not say what is on their mind. There are things that should be said and things that shouldn’t be said and, with matters such as this, I think those types of things should be said. Contrary to what most people seem to think, It is really never really too late to reveal your true feelings.
The outcome shouldn’t matter. The fact that you put yourself out there is all that does. You can’t live your life wondering what if… I once saw a poster that said “You miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take”. How true that is. You can’t fail at something if you don’t try at it to begin with it. That’s only logical. If you don’t try, then you live with that guilt for the rest of your life and it eats at you daily.
Now, I won’t go into detail about how this applies to me, but those close to me know exactly what I am talking about. I can testify that the things you don’t do are the ones that bug you more than what you did and regret. At least you tried, you may regret it, but at least you had the courage to do something. Some of us just sit in the shadows cowering from what we should be doing since we fear the possible outcome although there is no way to know what can happen until you actually try it.
I hope he did take my advice. Good luck!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Man, Its Been Awhile
Man, It has been awhile since I posted on here. In fact, I don't think I've gotten a single post written since I've returned to school this year.
Its not from lack of things to say, trust me.
This school year has started out and looks to be the busiest one of my entire schooling career. With class, 3 jobs, and a pair of clubs; both of which I hold editor positions, I just haven't had that much time to sit out and plan a post.
I am trying to figure out something I could post in my blog, that would be like a weekly segment. Something, such as a countdown or something that would go up around the same time daily. At this moment, I cannot pinpoint any direct ideas so if any of my devout readers have any ideas, please feel free to let me know.
I think as I have grown more accustomed to the "College Life" over the years, the stress seems to become almost natural to me. Freshman have told me that their life is so stressed and I used to worry about the stress and work a lot in my younger years, but now its second nature. The stress is there, but I guess I am so used to it that I don't let it bug me as much.
Don't get me wrong, I would prefer to be stress free, but since I'm used to it, it doesn't bother me that much anymore. I guess that's a good thing?
Despite my busy schedule, I will attempt to post on here more. Once, I get back into the blogging grove, I will throw more and more posts out there.
Until my next post; Happy Readings and thanks for your patience with me...
Its not from lack of things to say, trust me.
This school year has started out and looks to be the busiest one of my entire schooling career. With class, 3 jobs, and a pair of clubs; both of which I hold editor positions, I just haven't had that much time to sit out and plan a post.
I am trying to figure out something I could post in my blog, that would be like a weekly segment. Something, such as a countdown or something that would go up around the same time daily. At this moment, I cannot pinpoint any direct ideas so if any of my devout readers have any ideas, please feel free to let me know.
I think as I have grown more accustomed to the "College Life" over the years, the stress seems to become almost natural to me. Freshman have told me that their life is so stressed and I used to worry about the stress and work a lot in my younger years, but now its second nature. The stress is there, but I guess I am so used to it that I don't let it bug me as much.
Don't get me wrong, I would prefer to be stress free, but since I'm used to it, it doesn't bother me that much anymore. I guess that's a good thing?
Despite my busy schedule, I will attempt to post on here more. Once, I get back into the blogging grove, I will throw more and more posts out there.
Until my next post; Happy Readings and thanks for your patience with me...
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Brief Updates!
Hello All!
I know its been awhile since I posted and I promise you once my computer is fixed and I get into a daily routine, I will be posting more frequently. There is some good news to report on the front, my new screen finally came in on Saturday and my computer should be fixed by the end of this week. This means I can finally get online more to accomplish more posting! Yes, I can hear your happy cries at this wonderful news. No need to say more!
I do want to do at least one post concerning the upcoming school year before this week is out so look for that sometime. I just cannot believe, I have less than a week before I move in for my senior year. Time has flown by!
As for updates, that is about it. As I said, look for more posts this week and I will keep you all updated.
Til we meet again, farewell my fond followers!
I know its been awhile since I posted and I promise you once my computer is fixed and I get into a daily routine, I will be posting more frequently. There is some good news to report on the front, my new screen finally came in on Saturday and my computer should be fixed by the end of this week. This means I can finally get online more to accomplish more posting! Yes, I can hear your happy cries at this wonderful news. No need to say more!
I do want to do at least one post concerning the upcoming school year before this week is out so look for that sometime. I just cannot believe, I have less than a week before I move in for my senior year. Time has flown by!
As for updates, that is about it. As I said, look for more posts this week and I will keep you all updated.
Til we meet again, farewell my fond followers!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Props to Cali!
Let's face it: California seems to play by different rules sometimes. With Hollywood and all the celebs, it is a totally different jungle out there. Sometimes, I question their antics, but recently they did something that I must commend.
On Wednesday, a federal judge overruled the same-sex banned that had been past in Cali stating that it was unconstitutional. Props to that judge. Its nice to see that some people in our government are doing their jobs at defending the rights of their people.
Isn't that what this is all about anyway? People's rights. What makes a homosexual person so much different than anyone else? Nothing. We all eat, sleep, breath, fall in love, and pay taxes. Just because a person prefers a different way of life from your own makes them less of a person? I think that's discrimination at its finest right there.
I'm sure there are a lot of straight people out there who believe that marriage should be between just a man and a woman. To them I ask, why do you really care? You can still get married. They didn't ban straight marriage did they? Why do you care so much about other people that you have to raise your voice in protest against something that does nothing but attempt to bring about more equality to everyone. How about you just sit down and shut up. Live your life to the fullest instead of moaning and groaning about something that really doesn't concern you. Is it a deep seeded jealousy that you have? Well, now is the perfect time to grow up. Until you have a logical reason why you are against this, besides "The Bible tells me so", than keep your mouths shut. Thanks...
To hark on that Bible thing once again, and yes I apologize for the rant here, but two comments on the Bible idea;
Why do we let our idea of marriage be based on religious views when there is a supposed separation of "Church and state"? That doesn't make a lick of sense to me.
Anyways, my second issue is with the Catholic Church. They sit back and claim that homosexuality is a sin and than ask us to be tolerant of everyone? Hold it! Rewind the tapes.... That idea alone seems to be quite hypocritical doesn't it? We have to look at gays and lesbians as sinners, but then we apparently have to be tolerant and accept everyone for who they are.
Now if this was a show like The Daily Show, the tapes would roll back to a Priest criticizing the homosexual way of life and then fast forward to the same man stating that we must be tolerant and loving of everyone. Sadly, that is not the case here, but it could very well be if I was a more astute person.
If God is as loving and caring as he is written to be, then I seriously doubt that he would share the same views that the earthbound Catholics are preaching. I really hope he isn't because lets face it: the church as we know it seems to be very faulty at times. Of course the whole issue comes in with that idea since the Church seems to be too stubborn to admit these faults.... I'm not calling the Church "evil" or "unholy", I am just simply saying that nobody's perfect....
On Wednesday, a federal judge overruled the same-sex banned that had been past in Cali stating that it was unconstitutional. Props to that judge. Its nice to see that some people in our government are doing their jobs at defending the rights of their people.
Isn't that what this is all about anyway? People's rights. What makes a homosexual person so much different than anyone else? Nothing. We all eat, sleep, breath, fall in love, and pay taxes. Just because a person prefers a different way of life from your own makes them less of a person? I think that's discrimination at its finest right there.
I'm sure there are a lot of straight people out there who believe that marriage should be between just a man and a woman. To them I ask, why do you really care? You can still get married. They didn't ban straight marriage did they? Why do you care so much about other people that you have to raise your voice in protest against something that does nothing but attempt to bring about more equality to everyone. How about you just sit down and shut up. Live your life to the fullest instead of moaning and groaning about something that really doesn't concern you. Is it a deep seeded jealousy that you have? Well, now is the perfect time to grow up. Until you have a logical reason why you are against this, besides "The Bible tells me so", than keep your mouths shut. Thanks...
To hark on that Bible thing once again, and yes I apologize for the rant here, but two comments on the Bible idea;
Why do we let our idea of marriage be based on religious views when there is a supposed separation of "Church and state"? That doesn't make a lick of sense to me.
Anyways, my second issue is with the Catholic Church. They sit back and claim that homosexuality is a sin and than ask us to be tolerant of everyone? Hold it! Rewind the tapes.... That idea alone seems to be quite hypocritical doesn't it? We have to look at gays and lesbians as sinners, but then we apparently have to be tolerant and accept everyone for who they are.
Now if this was a show like The Daily Show, the tapes would roll back to a Priest criticizing the homosexual way of life and then fast forward to the same man stating that we must be tolerant and loving of everyone. Sadly, that is not the case here, but it could very well be if I was a more astute person.
If God is as loving and caring as he is written to be, then I seriously doubt that he would share the same views that the earthbound Catholics are preaching. I really hope he isn't because lets face it: the church as we know it seems to be very faulty at times. Of course the whole issue comes in with that idea since the Church seems to be too stubborn to admit these faults.... I'm not calling the Church "evil" or "unholy", I am just simply saying that nobody's perfect....
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Tom Petty Rocks out Wachovia Center
Although we returned from New Jersey mid-Sunday afternoon, my vacation didn't officially end, at least in my mind, until today as last night I saw an amazing performance by one of my favorite music artists of all time, Mr. Tom Petty.
Now I have not seen that many artists live in my day, although all the ones I have seen generally are artists really high on my list. It made me think back to all the other concerts I had seen.
In no particular order: Elton John, Billy Joel, Switchfoot, The Fray, Five for Fighting, Bob Seger, and George Thorogood and now Tom Petty is added to that list.
Don't ask me to rank these concerts as they are all so enjoyable, I could not possibly put a number with them although I would give Elton, Billy and Mr. Petty the top 3 spots on that list most likely. I'm not sure if I can accurately rank the shows from Five for Fighting and George Thorogood as I was much younger when I saw them and didn't full appreciate their music at the time.
I honestly cannot remember the point of this whole post, but I will just keep typing and see if it comes to me.
I guess my point was to comment on how spectacular the whole show was. The members of the band are not as old as they used to be, but it didn't stop them from rocking out the joint. From the first song they played right up until the last encore, the entire audience was singing and dancing. There wasn't much talk from the band as they just shut up and played.
A friend of mine expressed concern that the band may talk and act too political. There was none of that. There were barely any words spoken from the band except a brief excerpt about a song here or there, but most of the time they were performing their well known hits. I think its safe to say that this show, out of all the concerts I have been to, had the most audience involvement or at least the singing along aspect of involvement.
In honor of Tom Petty, I updated my musical playlist on the right to make it some of my favorite Tom Petty hits. Enjoy!
Overall it was a great show (5/5). Before he left, Tom Petty said, "we should get together again sometime". I really hope I get an opportunity to follow his words and see him again....
Now I have not seen that many artists live in my day, although all the ones I have seen generally are artists really high on my list. It made me think back to all the other concerts I had seen.
In no particular order: Elton John, Billy Joel, Switchfoot, The Fray, Five for Fighting, Bob Seger, and George Thorogood and now Tom Petty is added to that list.
Don't ask me to rank these concerts as they are all so enjoyable, I could not possibly put a number with them although I would give Elton, Billy and Mr. Petty the top 3 spots on that list most likely. I'm not sure if I can accurately rank the shows from Five for Fighting and George Thorogood as I was much younger when I saw them and didn't full appreciate their music at the time.
I honestly cannot remember the point of this whole post, but I will just keep typing and see if it comes to me.
I guess my point was to comment on how spectacular the whole show was. The members of the band are not as old as they used to be, but it didn't stop them from rocking out the joint. From the first song they played right up until the last encore, the entire audience was singing and dancing. There wasn't much talk from the band as they just shut up and played.
A friend of mine expressed concern that the band may talk and act too political. There was none of that. There were barely any words spoken from the band except a brief excerpt about a song here or there, but most of the time they were performing their well known hits. I think its safe to say that this show, out of all the concerts I have been to, had the most audience involvement or at least the singing along aspect of involvement.
In honor of Tom Petty, I updated my musical playlist on the right to make it some of my favorite Tom Petty hits. Enjoy!
Overall it was a great show (5/5). Before he left, Tom Petty said, "we should get together again sometime". I really hope I get an opportunity to follow his words and see him again....
Back in the Clutches of the Keystone State
There had been some rumblings that my fans were getting a bit antsy without any new posts coming from me on here. Thankfully, there were no riots I guess.
To the delight of all my fans, I am happy to announce that I am finally back. It was a grand ol' time down the shore, but I am happy to be back in the clutches of the Keystone State.
There isn't much to tell about my trip. We made a few beach trips, a zoo venture ect. The place we stayed at it is situated right by the Delaware Bay so of course we would make daily trips down there to view the ocean and the animals. The bay this time turned out to be a ghost town when it came to wildlife. Of course the bugs were out in full force, but going down shortly after a major storm may not have been the best plan. Instead of horseshoe crabs and other critters, the beach was highlighted by a trio of dead turtles include a massive sized sea turtle which looked like it lost a battle with a boat. There was also a giant shrew-like thing lying dead on the beach. As it turns out, the beach by the bay this week seemed to be the Valley of the Dead and a pretty sad sight.
I did manage to take pictures of these sad sights, but I have been delaying to put them up until I find my Camera Cord or until I get my computer fixed, whatever comes first. Stay tuned for that via facebook.
Anyways, on to more happier news. The Phillies have been doing better (knock on wood). I will definitely be posting about that later today after I am done posting here.
To the delight of all my fans, I am happy to announce that I am finally back. It was a grand ol' time down the shore, but I am happy to be back in the clutches of the Keystone State.
There isn't much to tell about my trip. We made a few beach trips, a zoo venture ect. The place we stayed at it is situated right by the Delaware Bay so of course we would make daily trips down there to view the ocean and the animals. The bay this time turned out to be a ghost town when it came to wildlife. Of course the bugs were out in full force, but going down shortly after a major storm may not have been the best plan. Instead of horseshoe crabs and other critters, the beach was highlighted by a trio of dead turtles include a massive sized sea turtle which looked like it lost a battle with a boat. There was also a giant shrew-like thing lying dead on the beach. As it turns out, the beach by the bay this week seemed to be the Valley of the Dead and a pretty sad sight.
I did manage to take pictures of these sad sights, but I have been delaying to put them up until I find my Camera Cord or until I get my computer fixed, whatever comes first. Stay tuned for that via facebook.
Anyways, on to more happier news. The Phillies have been doing better (knock on wood). I will definitely be posting about that later today after I am done posting here.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Looking Back A Year.....
Hello All,
I honestly cannot believe it has been about a month since I posted on here. I need to get back. Of course, I have my excuses. I had a little incident, as some of you know, involving my computer and some headphones which resulted in a broken screen. Now I'm waiting to get that fixed. Of course that's an excuse as it has limited my time on a computer greatly. So now I finally have gotten to make a Non-Phillies post which can be found on my Phillies blog as you all know.
Not much to report here. It's been a slow moving, but fast paced summer so far. Its about 5-6ish weeks until I return to college and I cannot believe how quickly its going.
Its interesting to look back at this time last year. Last Summer was the Summer of Music Discovery for me. I began to look deeper into bands I had heard of, but didn't know a lot about and into some other bands that I had never heard of at all. I discovered two of my top 5 favorite bands/artists last summer in Five for Fighting and Jason Mraz. Thanks to my friend Gabby for helping me get more into Mr. Mraz. I cannot believe its only been a year since I really got into these artists as I had known some work of both of theirs, but only started to discover them more last summer and now its hard to find a song from either that I do not like.
Speaking of music, it is just 9 days away from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers! I Cannot wait!!!!
Anyhoo, I digress....
The upcoming school had a different feel to it last summer than it does this year. Last summer, I was preparing for Junior year. Little did I know that it would be The Great Year of Involvement for me. If you told me during freshman year, that I would be involved in all that I am involved in/going to be involved in next year, I would call you crazy.
Its funny how people grow. I've gone from having little intentions of doing any extra activities to a pair of editor jobs with IU's two publications, at least 3 jobs, possibly 4 and an internship thrown in there somewhere and of course, 5 classes this semester. Its going to be a busy year for me to say the least. I am actually really looking forward to it.
What exactly am I doing that you ask? Well, that will have to wait for another post; sometime in the near future.
I honestly cannot believe it has been about a month since I posted on here. I need to get back. Of course, I have my excuses. I had a little incident, as some of you know, involving my computer and some headphones which resulted in a broken screen. Now I'm waiting to get that fixed. Of course that's an excuse as it has limited my time on a computer greatly. So now I finally have gotten to make a Non-Phillies post which can be found on my Phillies blog as you all know.
Not much to report here. It's been a slow moving, but fast paced summer so far. Its about 5-6ish weeks until I return to college and I cannot believe how quickly its going.
Its interesting to look back at this time last year. Last Summer was the Summer of Music Discovery for me. I began to look deeper into bands I had heard of, but didn't know a lot about and into some other bands that I had never heard of at all. I discovered two of my top 5 favorite bands/artists last summer in Five for Fighting and Jason Mraz. Thanks to my friend Gabby for helping me get more into Mr. Mraz. I cannot believe its only been a year since I really got into these artists as I had known some work of both of theirs, but only started to discover them more last summer and now its hard to find a song from either that I do not like.
Speaking of music, it is just 9 days away from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers! I Cannot wait!!!!
Anyhoo, I digress....
The upcoming school had a different feel to it last summer than it does this year. Last summer, I was preparing for Junior year. Little did I know that it would be The Great Year of Involvement for me. If you told me during freshman year, that I would be involved in all that I am involved in/going to be involved in next year, I would call you crazy.
Its funny how people grow. I've gone from having little intentions of doing any extra activities to a pair of editor jobs with IU's two publications, at least 3 jobs, possibly 4 and an internship thrown in there somewhere and of course, 5 classes this semester. Its going to be a busy year for me to say the least. I am actually really looking forward to it.
What exactly am I doing that you ask? Well, that will have to wait for another post; sometime in the near future.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Ranking the Pixar Films; # 1 May Surprise You...
Pixar released another animated masterpiece with Toy Story 3 this past week. So it got my thinking; where does this newest installment of the Toy Story saga rank among the other Pixar Films? Well, I decided to do my own little rankings of the Disney & Pixar Films.
There have been 11 films released since Pixar came into the picture, but I have not seen Ratitouille yet so I will refrain from ranking it on my list. This leave 10 movies for 10 spots so all will make the countdown. This was a lot harder than I thought as there is not a bad movie of the bunch. Try ranking them yourselves and see what I mean.
So without further adieu, here are my Disney & Pixar Movie Rankings (Beware # 1 on my list may surprise you a little):
10. Toy Story 2: I was not as sold on this movie as everyone else. Don't get me wrong it was a good movie; it was just not as good as Toy Story 1 which so many people claimed.
9. The Incredibles: The Incredibles were better than I thought it was going to be. It was a very enoyable Superhero flick.
8. Up: Up was a different breed of movie. It was a crazy storyline, but it worked perfectly for the film. I have actually only seen 9/10 of the movie, but I really enjoyed what I've seen.
7. Toy Story 3 For my notes on this movie, see my previous blog post. Its a "review" of the feature!
6. A Bug's Life A Bug's Life is a good movie, but still not my favorite animated feature featuring insects. ("Antz" is one of my favorite animated features ever!) My favorite part of this film was David Hyde Pierce, who was the voice of the stick bug, he was hilarious!
5. Toy Story 1 Still the best and greatest by far of the Toy Story Trio. The superstar power in this movie is what makes it so powerful. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are a great duo and the supporting cast fits in nicely.
4. Wall-E: This movie sends a strong statement about the environment more than anything else. I am not afraid to say that I enjoyed this movie. Wall-E reminds me of a combination of two characters from movies that I love (ET and Johnny-5 from Short Circuit). Although he doesn't say much in the film, he is a very lovable character indeed!
T2. Finding Nemo I couldn't pick between Finding Nemo and my next selection Cars for the 2nd and 3rd spots so I called it a tie. Nemo is one of the most relaxing Pixar Films out there. There is a great story, enjoyable characters and not a lot of suspenseful action which makes it so relaxing. Plus, I still think Ellen deserved an Oscar nomination for her role as Dory, but that is an argument for another day.
T2. Cars As I said before, Cars is tied with Nemo for 2nd. I can't pick between the two. Cars has a good cast which includes # Tony Shalhoub, Bonnie Hunt, Paul Newman, Owen Wilson, George Carlin, and Larry the Cable Guy as Mater. Mater may just be my favorite character of all Disney and Pixar Films (but that's another list for another day). Mater is like Dory from Finding Nemo; silly, not too bright, but loving and lovable. If not for my favorite film, these two would be battling for the top spot. But instead, they are in a dead heat for second place.
Now for all you Disney buffs out there, I'm sure you know what movie remains and makes the top of my list. For those of you who don't, here it is.... my favorite Disney & Pixar Film....
1. Monsters Inc Anyone surprised by this? Well, you shouldn't be. Maybe its the fact that is has to do with Monsters and I like the supernatural or maybe its the fact that Billy Crystal does a funny as hell job as Mike Wazowski. I think it is a strong combination of both factors that make me love this love. Plus the storyline is new and creative. Who thought of the door idea and scream power? Props to the writers on this one. Throw in John Goodman playing Mike's best friend, James P. Sullivan and I am sold. Billy Crystal makes this movie for me, but there are so many strong points that make it stand out as my favorite Disney and Pixar film!
Now that I think about it; it would be interesting to make a list of the top Disney & Pixar Characters. What do you guys think? Let me know if you even care! lol
There have been 11 films released since Pixar came into the picture, but I have not seen Ratitouille yet so I will refrain from ranking it on my list. This leave 10 movies for 10 spots so all will make the countdown. This was a lot harder than I thought as there is not a bad movie of the bunch. Try ranking them yourselves and see what I mean.
So without further adieu, here are my Disney & Pixar Movie Rankings (Beware # 1 on my list may surprise you a little):
10. Toy Story 2: I was not as sold on this movie as everyone else. Don't get me wrong it was a good movie; it was just not as good as Toy Story 1 which so many people claimed.
9. The Incredibles: The Incredibles were better than I thought it was going to be. It was a very enoyable Superhero flick.
8. Up: Up was a different breed of movie. It was a crazy storyline, but it worked perfectly for the film. I have actually only seen 9/10 of the movie, but I really enjoyed what I've seen.
7. Toy Story 3 For my notes on this movie, see my previous blog post. Its a "review" of the feature!
6. A Bug's Life A Bug's Life is a good movie, but still not my favorite animated feature featuring insects. ("Antz" is one of my favorite animated features ever!) My favorite part of this film was David Hyde Pierce, who was the voice of the stick bug, he was hilarious!
5. Toy Story 1 Still the best and greatest by far of the Toy Story Trio. The superstar power in this movie is what makes it so powerful. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are a great duo and the supporting cast fits in nicely.
4. Wall-E: This movie sends a strong statement about the environment more than anything else. I am not afraid to say that I enjoyed this movie. Wall-E reminds me of a combination of two characters from movies that I love (ET and Johnny-5 from Short Circuit). Although he doesn't say much in the film, he is a very lovable character indeed!
T2. Finding Nemo I couldn't pick between Finding Nemo and my next selection Cars for the 2nd and 3rd spots so I called it a tie. Nemo is one of the most relaxing Pixar Films out there. There is a great story, enjoyable characters and not a lot of suspenseful action which makes it so relaxing. Plus, I still think Ellen deserved an Oscar nomination for her role as Dory, but that is an argument for another day.
T2. Cars As I said before, Cars is tied with Nemo for 2nd. I can't pick between the two. Cars has a good cast which includes # Tony Shalhoub, Bonnie Hunt, Paul Newman, Owen Wilson, George Carlin, and Larry the Cable Guy as Mater. Mater may just be my favorite character of all Disney and Pixar Films (but that's another list for another day). Mater is like Dory from Finding Nemo; silly, not too bright, but loving and lovable. If not for my favorite film, these two would be battling for the top spot. But instead, they are in a dead heat for second place.
Now for all you Disney buffs out there, I'm sure you know what movie remains and makes the top of my list. For those of you who don't, here it is.... my favorite Disney & Pixar Film....
1. Monsters Inc Anyone surprised by this? Well, you shouldn't be. Maybe its the fact that is has to do with Monsters and I like the supernatural or maybe its the fact that Billy Crystal does a funny as hell job as Mike Wazowski. I think it is a strong combination of both factors that make me love this love. Plus the storyline is new and creative. Who thought of the door idea and scream power? Props to the writers on this one. Throw in John Goodman playing Mike's best friend, James P. Sullivan and I am sold. Billy Crystal makes this movie for me, but there are so many strong points that make it stand out as my favorite Disney and Pixar film!
Now that I think about it; it would be interesting to make a list of the top Disney & Pixar Characters. What do you guys think? Let me know if you even care! lol
Disney & Pixar Do it Again In Toy Story 3!
So I gave into temptation and saw Toy Story 3 in theaters Sunday morning. I had seen the first two Toy Story Films in theaters as a youngster so I think that this would complete the circle.
The movie turned out to be more than I personally expected. I would mark it ahead of Toy Story 2 on a scale, but still behind the first one when ranking the three movies. The story line was good. It has a different feel from the first two movies, but I really do not know why. Maybe it was just the knowing that this is the last and final chapter.
It can be an emotional movie; I loved the ending, but it was sad. I'll admit it. Very nicely planned out ending, but it was a little emotional. There is one shocking scene in the movie that really made me gasp, but I'm sure you will see it for yourself when you go.
I will not go through the trouble of retelling the plot as you probably already know it well enough already that you do not want to hear my rehashing of the tale. If you liked the first two movies; go see it. It is a fitting end to the Toy Story Triology.
The Toy Story movies may be over and done with but you will always have me and my blog, To Infinity and Beyond! (Yes that was corny I know, but a fitting ending to a Toy Story review)
The movie turned out to be more than I personally expected. I would mark it ahead of Toy Story 2 on a scale, but still behind the first one when ranking the three movies. The story line was good. It has a different feel from the first two movies, but I really do not know why. Maybe it was just the knowing that this is the last and final chapter.
It can be an emotional movie; I loved the ending, but it was sad. I'll admit it. Very nicely planned out ending, but it was a little emotional. There is one shocking scene in the movie that really made me gasp, but I'm sure you will see it for yourself when you go.
I will not go through the trouble of retelling the plot as you probably already know it well enough already that you do not want to hear my rehashing of the tale. If you liked the first two movies; go see it. It is a fitting end to the Toy Story Triology.
The Toy Story movies may be over and done with but you will always have me and my blog, To Infinity and Beyond! (Yes that was corny I know, but a fitting ending to a Toy Story review)
Monday, June 21, 2010
Gotta Love Dollar Store CDs!
So I was visiting Dollar Tree the other day. It was my first trip to a real dollar store in awhile so I was curious to see if there was anything new recently. There wasn't much there in the way of stuff I wanted until I strolled down the book aisle and something caught my eye. Sitting there in the bottom shelves were three whole sections of CDs for a dollar apiece.
I scanned through the large number of CDs. There wasn't really that much variety. It looked to contain just about 8 CDs with numerous copies of each. My search revealed some "bigger name" artists. In the end, I bought myself 4 CDs: Round Room by Phish, Barenaked Ladies are Me by Barenaked Ladies and both of the albums by the overnight sensation James Blunt.
Granted these artists are ones who've I listened to occassionally and I already own an album apiece from Phish and the BN Ladies. However, getting an entire albums from 3 successful artist tickled my fancy so i got those 4 CDs.
I mean, this is how I looked at it. Single downloads are usually around a $1. Having said that, as long as I like one song on each album then it is a good deal. If I like 2 or more songs then it is a steal. I mean 12 songs for a dollar is about 8ish cents per track. Is that a great deal or what? Gotta love dollar store CDs!
I scanned through the large number of CDs. There wasn't really that much variety. It looked to contain just about 8 CDs with numerous copies of each. My search revealed some "bigger name" artists. In the end, I bought myself 4 CDs: Round Room by Phish, Barenaked Ladies are Me by Barenaked Ladies and both of the albums by the overnight sensation James Blunt.
Granted these artists are ones who've I listened to occassionally and I already own an album apiece from Phish and the BN Ladies. However, getting an entire albums from 3 successful artist tickled my fancy so i got those 4 CDs.
I mean, this is how I looked at it. Single downloads are usually around a $1. Having said that, as long as I like one song on each album then it is a good deal. If I like 2 or more songs then it is a steal. I mean 12 songs for a dollar is about 8ish cents per track. Is that a great deal or what? Gotta love dollar store CDs!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Super Tuesday: The Return of 2 Music Legends
So, I am sitting here online down the shore, yes I know it happened. I found an outside Internet source and am currently "borrowing" their Internet to relax and enjoy myself down here. However, the point of this post is not to discuss how I am online during this time; it is too mention two notable CDs that are coming out tomorrow.
Now if you have seen my Facebook status, then you know what two artists are releasing albums tomorrow. They are two of my favorites of all time; one I knew about for quite a long time and one that I just found out about last night (yes I am as shocked I didn't hear about it sooner). The albums are Mojo by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Bingo by The Steve Miller Band.
Now I listened to the entire Tom Petty album last night as I found it being streamed online and I am currently listening to the new Steve Miller album which I just discovered online this morning. I will not review the albums now, but maybe at a later date so stay tuned. Be warned though, I was never good at reviewing albums, but we shall see.
The one thing I will comment on is that both albums are different then you know and expect from these two legends. It is not to say that it is not good stuff. All the songs I have heard from both albums sound great to me. I have been reading outside reviews and they rate both CDs very highly and I can see why by listening to them both. One thing i have noticed from both albums is how identifiable the singers still. While it is obvious that Tom Petty and Steve Guitar are older than they used to be, but they still sound the way they did from their earlier albums. Age hasn't affected either of these men in any way, shape or form.
Anyway you slice it, tomorrow is going to be a great day for the music world with 2 legends releasing new albums after significant gaps of time before they last stepped into a studio. For Mr. Petty, its been 8 years and for Steve Miller; its been an astonishing 17 years. Regardless, I think its safe to say that both albums have been worth the wait.
I would recommend fans of either artists to pick up their respective CDs.You won't be disappointed.
Now if you have seen my Facebook status, then you know what two artists are releasing albums tomorrow. They are two of my favorites of all time; one I knew about for quite a long time and one that I just found out about last night (yes I am as shocked I didn't hear about it sooner). The albums are Mojo by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Bingo by The Steve Miller Band.
Now I listened to the entire Tom Petty album last night as I found it being streamed online and I am currently listening to the new Steve Miller album which I just discovered online this morning. I will not review the albums now, but maybe at a later date so stay tuned. Be warned though, I was never good at reviewing albums, but we shall see.
The one thing I will comment on is that both albums are different then you know and expect from these two legends. It is not to say that it is not good stuff. All the songs I have heard from both albums sound great to me. I have been reading outside reviews and they rate both CDs very highly and I can see why by listening to them both. One thing i have noticed from both albums is how identifiable the singers still. While it is obvious that Tom Petty and Steve Guitar are older than they used to be, but they still sound the way they did from their earlier albums. Age hasn't affected either of these men in any way, shape or form.
Anyway you slice it, tomorrow is going to be a great day for the music world with 2 legends releasing new albums after significant gaps of time before they last stepped into a studio. For Mr. Petty, its been 8 years and for Steve Miller; its been an astonishing 17 years. Regardless, I think its safe to say that both albums have been worth the wait.
I would recommend fans of either artists to pick up their respective CDs.You won't be disappointed.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Time for a Break
Hello All!,
For those of you who read my latest Phillies post, you already know that I am taking a break down the shore for a few days. All the great ones need a break sometime for everything and just need to take a step back and look at everything.
I am no exception. Tomorrow morning I will head down the Jersey Shore for a well needed break. A lot has been going on in my life and I just need some time to think about everything. I will still have my phone so texts are always welcome; just be patient if I don't get back to right away.
Until I speak to you lovely readers again, have a good weekend and I will speak to you soon.
Good day all!
- Your Blogger, John
For those of you who read my latest Phillies post, you already know that I am taking a break down the shore for a few days. All the great ones need a break sometime for everything and just need to take a step back and look at everything.
I am no exception. Tomorrow morning I will head down the Jersey Shore for a well needed break. A lot has been going on in my life and I just need some time to think about everything. I will still have my phone so texts are always welcome; just be patient if I don't get back to right away.
Until I speak to you lovely readers again, have a good weekend and I will speak to you soon.
Good day all!
- Your Blogger, John
Monday, June 7, 2010
The Goalball Diaries: A Weekend at the Nationals
This weekend, I had a chance to volunteer / observe a National Tournament. However this tournament was not in any sport that you hear about every day on the radio. This was the Goalball Nationals being held at the University of Delaware.
Never heard of Goalball? Well, trust me, you are not alone. It is the official sport of the blind and visually impaired. It consists of two teams of three players each, at least three on the court at any time, playing against each other. The games usually take place in a gym with a flat surface and with a specialized ball containing a bell in the middle of the ball that makes noise when you roll it.
The object of the game is simple; to score as many goals as you can on the opposing team. Teams alternate rolling the ball back and forth at various speeds trying to get the ball past the three players on the opposing team who literally lay out and attempt to block the ball when they hear it coming. I have told a few people about this game and some of the common responses I get are, “Sounds easy to do” or “that sounds plain boring”.
Sounds easy enough? Wrong! These players are skilled, athletic and very good at what they do. It takes practice, practice and more practice to get the correct forms and techniques down pat. I have the privilege of playing a little Goalball when I was younger, and I can honestly say, it is one of the more difficult things that I ever attempted. To any sighted person who says that this game sounds easy and simple to do, I would invite them to play a round of Goalball and then I can pretty much assure you that they will be singing a different tune.
One cannot judge a game boring until they have seen its best players battling on the biggest stages. This weekend was the top of the pile tournament. Only the best teams made it and they showed their talents off. The game of Goalball is fierce and the players will do anything to win. These Nationals were intense right down to the championship games on both sides for the men’s and women’s teams. If that’s not intense enough for you; try watching a 1-on-1 battle between two pro Goalball players. Now that is an intense battle.
How did I ever discover and get into Goalball, you ask. Well, my younger brother and his friend Michael are members of a young, up and coming team from this area called the Wolfpack. They are the “B” team to “Venom, the last 2009 and 2010 National Champions, who are also from this area. When I was in high school, My brother Matt would play Goalball weekly at a school in Philadelphia. Every now and then, I would attend his practices and be offered a chance to play a little in the games. I’m not going to lie, the time playing Goalball was very enjoyable. Sadly, I haven’t gotten the chance to play in years.
As I stated early, the “A” men’s team from the area, Venom, took the first place prize in the Men’s side and our women’s team took the Bronze position. Sadly, the Wolfpack finished 8th, but that was not too shabby for one of their first National Competitions. Although I saw much well played Goalball over the weekend, the highlight of the weekend for me was when my boneheaded brother scored on his own goal. Yes, I kid you not. I haven’t taken a break from ragging on him about it either. But in all seriousness, the Wolfpack performed admirably. Congrats guys!
I didn’t get a chance to take many pictures, as most of the time there I was volunteering and working behind the scenes, although I will attempt to post a photo in this post, but no promises that it will actually work. Friday night, I had the honor of keeping score for one of the gyms. It was a strenuous task if I do say so myself. Well, not really. But after awhile of not scoring and nothing to change; I would find myself daydreaming only to come back to reality having to immediately double check and see if I had missed anything and thankfully, I never did. Luckily, I made a new friend in the 10 Second Timer and had her to talk to all night. That helped keep my head in the game, so to speak, during the night. Overall, it was a fun night and everyone involved did a wonderful job especially that awesome score keeper. Good job everyone!
My family and I ventured back to Delaware on the Sunday and for the first 3 matches, I was goal judge, basically judging whether or not the ball actually went in the ball and chasing down rogue balls that were thrown or hit out of play. That involved a little more movement than the score keeping job and it had me on my toes the whole game. I didn’t really get a chance to take photos and or videos until the men’s final game which I took a video of and a few photos here and there. Look out for it all to be placed on Facebook at a later date, once my Internet allows me to post some videos that is!
Overall, it was a fun weekend. Attending the Goalball Nationals on Friday and Sunday was enjoyable as I described and the Phillies actually won a few games this weekend, so it was a plus.
Never heard of Goalball? Well, trust me, you are not alone. It is the official sport of the blind and visually impaired. It consists of two teams of three players each, at least three on the court at any time, playing against each other. The games usually take place in a gym with a flat surface and with a specialized ball containing a bell in the middle of the ball that makes noise when you roll it.
The object of the game is simple; to score as many goals as you can on the opposing team. Teams alternate rolling the ball back and forth at various speeds trying to get the ball past the three players on the opposing team who literally lay out and attempt to block the ball when they hear it coming. I have told a few people about this game and some of the common responses I get are, “Sounds easy to do” or “that sounds plain boring”.
Sounds easy enough? Wrong! These players are skilled, athletic and very good at what they do. It takes practice, practice and more practice to get the correct forms and techniques down pat. I have the privilege of playing a little Goalball when I was younger, and I can honestly say, it is one of the more difficult things that I ever attempted. To any sighted person who says that this game sounds easy and simple to do, I would invite them to play a round of Goalball and then I can pretty much assure you that they will be singing a different tune.
One cannot judge a game boring until they have seen its best players battling on the biggest stages. This weekend was the top of the pile tournament. Only the best teams made it and they showed their talents off. The game of Goalball is fierce and the players will do anything to win. These Nationals were intense right down to the championship games on both sides for the men’s and women’s teams. If that’s not intense enough for you; try watching a 1-on-1 battle between two pro Goalball players. Now that is an intense battle.
How did I ever discover and get into Goalball, you ask. Well, my younger brother and his friend Michael are members of a young, up and coming team from this area called the Wolfpack. They are the “B” team to “Venom, the last 2009 and 2010 National Champions, who are also from this area. When I was in high school, My brother Matt would play Goalball weekly at a school in Philadelphia. Every now and then, I would attend his practices and be offered a chance to play a little in the games. I’m not going to lie, the time playing Goalball was very enjoyable. Sadly, I haven’t gotten the chance to play in years.
As I stated early, the “A” men’s team from the area, Venom, took the first place prize in the Men’s side and our women’s team took the Bronze position. Sadly, the Wolfpack finished 8th, but that was not too shabby for one of their first National Competitions. Although I saw much well played Goalball over the weekend, the highlight of the weekend for me was when my boneheaded brother scored on his own goal. Yes, I kid you not. I haven’t taken a break from ragging on him about it either. But in all seriousness, the Wolfpack performed admirably. Congrats guys!
I didn’t get a chance to take many pictures, as most of the time there I was volunteering and working behind the scenes, although I will attempt to post a photo in this post, but no promises that it will actually work. Friday night, I had the honor of keeping score for one of the gyms. It was a strenuous task if I do say so myself. Well, not really. But after awhile of not scoring and nothing to change; I would find myself daydreaming only to come back to reality having to immediately double check and see if I had missed anything and thankfully, I never did. Luckily, I made a new friend in the 10 Second Timer and had her to talk to all night. That helped keep my head in the game, so to speak, during the night. Overall, it was a fun night and everyone involved did a wonderful job especially that awesome score keeper. Good job everyone!
My family and I ventured back to Delaware on the Sunday and for the first 3 matches, I was goal judge, basically judging whether or not the ball actually went in the ball and chasing down rogue balls that were thrown or hit out of play. That involved a little more movement than the score keeping job and it had me on my toes the whole game. I didn’t really get a chance to take photos and or videos until the men’s final game which I took a video of and a few photos here and there. Look out for it all to be placed on Facebook at a later date, once my Internet allows me to post some videos that is!
Overall, it was a fun weekend. Attending the Goalball Nationals on Friday and Sunday was enjoyable as I described and the Phillies actually won a few games this weekend, so it was a plus.
Some Things Never Change....
One of the more memorable things about my high school, Monsignor Bonner for those of you who don’t know, was the diverse cast of characters that stepped through its doors. There were the loudmouths, the tools, the players, the smart crowd, and the nerds to name a few. Today, I traveled with my younger brother to see Bonner’s baseball team take on Great Valley in the PA State Playoffs.
After standing within a large group of current Bonner boys, I have to say that nothing has changed. Bonner boys these days are still the same cocky, loud, sexual innuendo lead males that were around during my days. Even though many of you may paint those qualities as negative, one cannot deny the ingenuity of those guys. The highlight of the day ended up being when a group of Bonner guys attempted to move an entire bleacher from a surrounding baseball field and bring it over so they could sit. I mean, the original bleachers were blocked off and they were charging money to sit there. Yes, Charging money to sit in a public area; that’s classy all right; although on game days, the Phillies pull the same crap actually charging money to get into the park because so many people park there and walk to the ballpark since it sits just across the street from Citizen’s Bank Park. Neither is very fair if you ask, but I digress. Anyway, a park security man stopped them after they lifted the bleachers off the ground. I know, I know, what a total buzz kill.
As for the game, the Friars ended up losing 4-1 :( . This was actually my first Bonner baseball game that I had ever seen occurring just a short 3 years after I graduated. Yes, I know I’m a bit behind. But, as they say, its better late than never. Despite the loss, the team had a great season and I commend them on a job well done. We’ll be back next year boys; I’m looking forward to it.
After standing within a large group of current Bonner boys, I have to say that nothing has changed. Bonner boys these days are still the same cocky, loud, sexual innuendo lead males that were around during my days. Even though many of you may paint those qualities as negative, one cannot deny the ingenuity of those guys. The highlight of the day ended up being when a group of Bonner guys attempted to move an entire bleacher from a surrounding baseball field and bring it over so they could sit. I mean, the original bleachers were blocked off and they were charging money to sit there. Yes, Charging money to sit in a public area; that’s classy all right; although on game days, the Phillies pull the same crap actually charging money to get into the park because so many people park there and walk to the ballpark since it sits just across the street from Citizen’s Bank Park. Neither is very fair if you ask, but I digress. Anyway, a park security man stopped them after they lifted the bleachers off the ground. I know, I know, what a total buzz kill.
As for the game, the Friars ended up losing 4-1 :( . This was actually my first Bonner baseball game that I had ever seen occurring just a short 3 years after I graduated. Yes, I know I’m a bit behind. But, as they say, its better late than never. Despite the loss, the team had a great season and I commend them on a job well done. We’ll be back next year boys; I’m looking forward to it.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Saluting the Best College Coach Ever: The Late, Great John Wooden
My Readers, I regret to inform you that I have to bring to you more sad news, this time from the World of Sports.
In the same week one of baseball’s legends retired, the college basketball world lost one of, if not, the greatest coaches in college sports history. Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden passed away at the age of 99 last night in a California hospital.
Now I must apologize that I cannot write as much about John Wooden as I did Ken Griffey Jr. as I am too young to have had the privilege of witnessing the legendary teams that Wooden constantly had on the basketball court. How good were these teams? From 1976-1973, Wooden’s UCLA teams had an amazing winning streak of 88 straight games. During his career, his teams had 4 perfect 30-0 seasons, a 38 game winning streak in NCAA tournament games and a record 98 straight home wins on their home court. If that is not signs of an elite coach then I don’t what is. Wooden was the model of consistency.
Players attested to his humbleness and he worked two jobs at the start of his career to get bye. Wooden was famous for his Pyramid of Success, which includes such elements as Industriousness, Friendship, Loyalty, Poise and Intentness. Today’s coaches may view this Pyramid differently with fame, money, and tournament appearances at the top of their list. There is a serious shortage of coaches like Wooden today and that is truly a shame
.
I’m sorry I cannot say more on the man, but his reputation speaks for itself.
So, I salute you John Wooden. We need more coaches in the league like you these days. You were the best, and my only regret is that I am too young to have seen you in action. Rest in Peace my friend, hope your afterlife is as successful as your mortal, yet sometimes appearing immortal, life was here on earth.
In the same week one of baseball’s legends retired, the college basketball world lost one of, if not, the greatest coaches in college sports history. Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden passed away at the age of 99 last night in a California hospital.
Now I must apologize that I cannot write as much about John Wooden as I did Ken Griffey Jr. as I am too young to have had the privilege of witnessing the legendary teams that Wooden constantly had on the basketball court. How good were these teams? From 1976-1973, Wooden’s UCLA teams had an amazing winning streak of 88 straight games. During his career, his teams had 4 perfect 30-0 seasons, a 38 game winning streak in NCAA tournament games and a record 98 straight home wins on their home court. If that is not signs of an elite coach then I don’t what is. Wooden was the model of consistency.
Players attested to his humbleness and he worked two jobs at the start of his career to get bye. Wooden was famous for his Pyramid of Success, which includes such elements as Industriousness, Friendship, Loyalty, Poise and Intentness. Today’s coaches may view this Pyramid differently with fame, money, and tournament appearances at the top of their list. There is a serious shortage of coaches like Wooden today and that is truly a shame
.
I’m sorry I cannot say more on the man, but his reputation speaks for itself.
So, I salute you John Wooden. We need more coaches in the league like you these days. You were the best, and my only regret is that I am too young to have seen you in action. Rest in Peace my friend, hope your afterlife is as successful as your mortal, yet sometimes appearing immortal, life was here on earth.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
And Then There Was One....
I come to you with a sad heart bearing some sad news for all your Golden Girls fans out there. It seems we are now down to one of the famous quartet as actress Rue Mcclanahan, who won our hearts as the promiscuous Blanche Devereaux on the show, died from a massive stroke earlier today. She was 76 years old.
As a fan of the show Golden Girls, it is shocking and saddening how quickly these ladies are falling from our midst. She now can join Sophia and Dorothy up there for a big piece of cheesecake and discuss old times like they did so many times on the show. R.I.P Blanche.
Betty White, the last remaining star of the show was deeply hurt by the death of her costar. "Rue was a close and dear friend. I treasure our relationship," White, 88, said in a statement. "It hurts more than I ever thought it would, if that's even possible."
It looks like Betty will have to live forever to keep the show’s living memory alive. Here’s hoping that she can…
As a fan of the show Golden Girls, it is shocking and saddening how quickly these ladies are falling from our midst. She now can join Sophia and Dorothy up there for a big piece of cheesecake and discuss old times like they did so many times on the show. R.I.P Blanche.
Betty White, the last remaining star of the show was deeply hurt by the death of her costar. "Rue was a close and dear friend. I treasure our relationship," White, 88, said in a statement. "It hurts more than I ever thought it would, if that's even possible."
It looks like Betty will have to live forever to keep the show’s living memory alive. Here’s hoping that she can…
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
My Top 25 Classic Rock Songs!
102.9 WMGK recently held their “Philly 500”; the countdown of the top 500 classic rocks songs as voted on members of their network. As I had noted before, I did disagree with some of the top choices on the countdown. Having said that, I decided to do a mini countdown of my own favorite classic rock songs. So I present to you, my audience, my top 25 Classic Songs. Feel free to comment, I would love to hear people’s opinions on my short list here:
My Top 25 Classic Rock Songs:
25 (tied). Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
25. Life During Wartime – Talking Heads
24. Rock & Roll – Led Zeppelin
23. Radar Love – Golden Earring
22. Maneater – Hall & Oates
21. Crocodile Rock – Elton John
20. Renegade – Styx
19. American Girl – Tom Petty
18. Clampdown – The Clash
17. Behind Blue Eyes – The Who
16. All the Young Dudes – Matt the Hoople
15. The Boys are Back in Town – Thin Lizzy
14. Who Are You – The Who
13. I Want to Know What Love Is – Foreigner
12. Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
11. Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Meatloaf
10. You Make My Dreams Come True – Hall & Oates
9. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant – Billy Joel
8. Free Bird – Lynyrd Skynyrd
7. We Didn’t Start the Fire – Billy Joel
6. Philadelphia Freedom – Elton John
5. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
4. Your Song – Elton John
3. Piano Man – Billy Joel
2. Don’t Stop Believing – Journey
1. American Pie – Don McClean
Artists with multiple Songs:
3- Billy Joel, Elton John,
2- Hall & Oates, Led Zeppelin, The Who
11 out of 26 songs belong to one of my 6 favorite classic rock artists. Is it any surprise that the two greatest piano players of our time have nearly a quarter of the songs? If you know me, then the answer to that would be NO! Let me know what you think!
ESPN Cannot Have Me!
A wise friend once told me that “I would never be hired by ESPN because I actually knew what I was talking about.”
Now the reason I label him as “a friend” is because I honestly cannot remember who told me that, I just remember that it was said to me and I have to admit that he was right on the ball. No pun intended. I even forget the discussion, but I can probably assume we were viewing some show and or game on the aforementioned ESPN station when someone said something that was stupid, wrong, or just down-right uneducated about baseball. This is not a rare occurrence for ESPN. One cannot watch the network within hearing at least one thing said that makes the educated viewer cringe.
Now what does that have to do with recent events you may ask. Well, I was viewing the MLB page of the ESPN website when I came across a video entitled “Trouble in Philadelphia”. As a diehard fan of the Phillies and as a fan who cannot explain to their current power outage, I was curious to see what some of these “experts” believed was wrong with the Phillies recently. Now the video was just a minute long so I knew there was not going to be much of an analysis in it. However, when the video finally played, I was even more disappointed than I was when I first saw the video.
For those of you who haven’t seen the video, I am going to give you a summation of what it contained. (Warning: Spoilers ahead) The video was John Kruk’s “analysis of the Phillies recent struggles. His conclusion? To paraphrase the Kruker: “The Phillies are struggling to win because they are not scoring runs. They are not hitting with runners in scoring position and are not hitting home runs.”
How much do they pay these “experts” to analyze these games? That was not an analysis, it was pointing out the obvious. I could have done a better job and I know for a fact that I have. At least once, but I think more, I have posted my analysis of what is going on with the Phillies. Analysis involves breaking down the obvious points that Captain Obvious Kruk pointed out in the video. I think its safe to say that watching that video may be the most pointless minute of my life. I could have told you everything that he said in that video. What exactly was the point of telling people what they already knew? I’m confused.
Now don’t get me wrong, I love John Kruk as much as the next Phillies fan, but he has fallen into the trap that is ESPN. Here is the problem with ESPN and it all comes down to two simple terms: Bias and ignorance. ESPN has chosen their favorite teams and players and they are the teams and players that they cover most. You cannot watch an episode of Sports Center without having extended segments involving the Yankees, Red Soxs, Mets, Lakers, Penguins, Capitals, Patriots, Colts and Celtics. Do they realize there are more teams then this in their respective sports? Do they even consider that there are more hockey players then Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin or that there are more NBA players then Lebron and Kobe? Earth to ESPN: Derek Jeter, A-Fraud, and Albert Pujols are not the only players in the MLB! Even if they attempt to talk about their favorites, they continually show little ability to understand and analyze. Take this video as just a small shred of evidence.
For those of you ESPN viewers, you know exactly what I am talking about. If you aren’t, just watch one day and you will know what I am talking about. If a team is hot and not listed here then you may hear about them, but once they go cold, ESPN could care less about them. I witnessed a top 10 plays once where one of the top plays was a play by Mariners shortstop Jack Wilson I believe it was. Did the hosts discuss Wilson’s play? Well very little. Most of the conversation was concerning Derek Jeter and how the play resembled what Wilson had done. Even during other sports plays, they managed to work a Derek Jeter comment in there. If that is not bias, then I do not know what is. Here’s a tip guys, I know Derek Jeter isn’t gay so get off his d*** for once. Thanks.
Even if the day ever came that I was offered a job by ESPN, there is a high chance I wouldn’t think twice about turning it down. I have too much dignity to associate myself with those bias, uneducated twerps that work for that network. My friend was right; I know too much to work there and they cannot afford me even if they wanted to.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sleepless at 5 AM...
So it is nearly 5:00 am and here I sit still awake. I can hear the faint calls of the morning birds that you only hear very early in the morning. The sky seems to be lighting just a shade lighter every minute or so. My siblings and parents are all asleep so I am all alone at this hour. I haven’t really been tired all nigh t and honestly have no idea of the cause. Maybe it is in warmness of this room. I am unsure of the outside temperature at this current time, but it cannot be as warm as it is in here, can it?
One cannot imagine how peaceful this time of day is until they actually experience it. In fact it’s so peaceful and quiet that it is almost as silent as the Phillies’ bats are at this moment. Zing! Haha, I know it wasn’t that good of a joke, but I need something to laugh about. I did not plan on blogging, but I am trying anything to tire myself out and typing is usually the best way to achieve sleepiness so I am giving it a shot.
I really don’t know what else to talk about at this time so I will leave this post at what it is for now. I’m going to give the old laying down a shot again and see what happens. I may be back for another post later this morning if sleep does not overtake me soon.
Until then my friends, I wish you all a good night’s sleep.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
To Be Continued.....
So it comes to one of, if not the best time on television, the week or two when most of our favorite shows’ season finales take place. A common trend amongst these final episodes is the idea of a “cliff hanger”, where the show leaves the season ending in a critical point leaving the audience to wait until next season to find out what has happened. Basically, the cliff hangers are like the second part of the season finale that we have to wait months to see. The wait is strenuous, but in the end, it will all be worth it. So I figured to take a look back at what some shows have left us with in these cliff hangers.
*Warning: Spoilers may be contained ahead*
House may have been the only show that did not leave a true cliff hanger. What they did present us with is one of the most memorable episodes that the show has ever put forth. We have been waiting for House and Cuddy to get together from the start and, on this finale, they finally did. One wonders how this will complicate things in the upcoming season. Of course it could have all been a dream sequence, but I sincerely doubt that. We shall see next season….
CBS started their string of series finales last Thursday with CSI. Nothing big happened on CSI, except the catching of the infamous Dr. Jekyll, oh and Langston got stabbed! Yes, I couldn’t believe it either. We all know that he is going to survive, right? I mean he cannot die or maybe he won’t. We won’t know until the fall. Ahhhh!
The Mentalist followed right after CSI, first let me say that this is the best show Thursday night has to offer now, but there wasn’t much of a cliff hanger on this one sorry to say. Jane met Red John and then we freed. It was their first real encounter and ended with Jane attempting to decipher what Red John had told him. Nothing really too suspenseful.
With the ending of the weekend and the emergence of Monday night, yet another season finale was thrust upon us. CSI: Miami’s ending may have been the most intriguing. The season ended with most of the lab collapsing from some unseen entity. Was it some virus concocted by the evil genius in the story? Maybe it was a something in the air ducts or something that came in from the outside of Miami. When an entire lab of people collapses; it intrigues the mind greatly. So it is with this ending that I award CSI: Miami the cliff hanger of the season.
Tuesday night continued the trend of implied deaths with the season finale of NCIS. What will that fiendish woman do to Gibbs’ dad? I’ll tell you one thing, Gibbs is the last person that I would want to mess with. She clearly has no idea who she is dealing with. If she harms one hair on his father’s head; I think it’s a safe assumption that Gibbs would blow that bitch away. I am looking forward to that. It should be a good season premier from the top show on TV.
Wednesday night provided us with a duo of fabulous cliff hangers starting with Criminal Minds. First off I would just like to say that Tim Curry is one scary SOB; he played a perfect serial killer in the finale. Is that really a compliment? Saying one plays a good psychopath; I mean he did it and it was one of my favorite episodes of the show. I wonder what he has in store with that little girl, ahhh, this cliff hanger business is getting me anxious to next fall. I think the best part of this cliff hanger is that Tim Curry will be back for at least one more episode and that fact I look forward to.
So who, if anybody, was shot on CSI:NY. I mean they already nearly crippled the guy in the last season finale, wasn’t it? Which season finale had that drive by shooting? I don’t Danny is going to die anytime on the show, but we shall see next season!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Iron Man 2 Is A Must See!
So I know it’s been awhile since I posted on here, but it has been quite busy for me during the past few weeks. My finals were a lot more time consuming then I initially pictured and they took up a majority of my time. However, school is over now and I will be free to post much more often than I had been previously; I’m not saying that I will post more often, but chances are that I will with much more spare time on my hands.
So, yesterday, I saw Iron Man 2 for the 2nd time and am planning on seeing it at least once more. For any of you who have not seen the sequel to the hit blockbuster starring Robert Downey Jr, I would have to ask what is wrong with you. Anyone who saw and enjoyed the first film at all would love the sequel. It does not lose a beat and as many have said before me, Downey is a perfect actor to play the role of the eccentric Tony Stark. It is not often that you have such good acting in a superhero movie and that makes it a serious plus. The past few years have been a goldmine of Superhero flicks with the two newest Batman movies, The Hulk and of course the Iron Man films. See this movie if you haven’t! You will not be disappointed, I promise.
I honestly do not have more than that at this current moment, I will probably blog again later today about some more random topics that you may or may not care to listen to, but until that time comes; Safe Journeys my friends, and Happy Readings!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Way, Way, Way, Way Too Long.....
To quote the Counting Crows, its been way, way, way, way too long since my last post. I have been busier than expected. Plus it doesn't help that the internet in my room, at least the wireless, is downright abysmal so the chances of me having a steady enough signal to post a significantly long post is very unlikely. So I'm currently sitting on our lounge on one of the new computers they placed here. Brilliant idea by the way, one of the best IU has ever had!
Anyhoo, so I'm sitting here waiting for my laundry done and doing some much needed work on a computer with a solidly working internet. Thankfully, I am not alone. My ol' buddy Tom Petty has graciously cared to join me and entertain me with his music via IPod. Yes, I'm weird. I never recall telling anyone I was normal.
So, where was I? Well, I do have a lot I could post on. I had my last real "class" last night and now its on to just a few papers, a final, a movie night on Monday and then its summer time. I have to admit that I am strongly looking forward to next Friday and the release of Iron Man 2. Am I the only person who cannot wait for this movie. My patience has paid off and now it is just 7 days away.... I am also looking forward to taking my youngest brother, Dylan to see it next week since we are both off from school!
I'll leave it at that for right now. I want to post later, if I find time, and blab more about my life and what occurs in it.
So farewell for now readers! Have a great Friday. Happy Readings!
Anyhoo, so I'm sitting here waiting for my laundry done and doing some much needed work on a computer with a solidly working internet. Thankfully, I am not alone. My ol' buddy Tom Petty has graciously cared to join me and entertain me with his music via IPod. Yes, I'm weird. I never recall telling anyone I was normal.
So, where was I? Well, I do have a lot I could post on. I had my last real "class" last night and now its on to just a few papers, a final, a movie night on Monday and then its summer time. I have to admit that I am strongly looking forward to next Friday and the release of Iron Man 2. Am I the only person who cannot wait for this movie. My patience has paid off and now it is just 7 days away.... I am also looking forward to taking my youngest brother, Dylan to see it next week since we are both off from school!
I'll leave it at that for right now. I want to post later, if I find time, and blab more about my life and what occurs in it.
So farewell for now readers! Have a great Friday. Happy Readings!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
A Beautiful Day Here...
So it’s been a solid 10 days between posts on here, and I have to admit that it has been a very busy 10 day period indeed, which is a large part of the reason for the long gap. Since my last post, I have attended three Phillies games (the first two home games of the year versus the Nationals), and the last spring training at home against the Pirates. Along with several school functions and speakers, and homework and work-study, I have had serious time to sit down and blog.
The weather is beautiful and so are the sports in Philadelphia. The Phillies and Flyers both won last night and the Sixers’ season officially ended. Three very good things all happening in one night, so last night was quite enjoyable for most Philadelphians. Speaking of the Phillies, they are receiving their NL Championship Rings this afternoon and I am eagerly waiting for the festivities to begin. Sadly they are still over an hour away.
I really do not have much to blog on right now, and I must be off of here to work on my paper for next week. I feel inspiration coming on, so I will more than likely blog later. Until then, good afternoon all!
Monday, April 5, 2010
It's a Beautiful Day!
Good morning, good morning to all! We are on the brink of the greatest sporting event of this year. In just about 3 hours, The Philadelphia Phillies will take the field and open their 2010 season. The game is set to begin at 1:05 in beautiful Washington, DC. Roy “Doc” Halladay is scheduled to make his Phillies’ debut against the Nationals’ John Lannon. Ever since Spring Training began a little over a month ago, the Phillies have been the talk of town, as they very well should be. Everyone has taken notice of this group of 25 players who look to put together another successful season.
I honestly do not think I can accurately describe the excitement level that I am at right now. While it was true that I would have loved to have made it down to Washington for this game, I hear that Phillies fans are going down there in droves. The city of Washington needs to brace themselves for the red flurry that is coming their way. The city of Washington may never be the same after Phillies’ fans get done with it this week.
I don’t know about any of you, but I have been counting down to this moment since mid-February! The day has arrived; the day has arrived for the start of the Phillies’ 2010 Regular Season. The lineups will soon be posted, the players will take the field, and the fans will pile into the stadiums. I cannot believe how quickly this day has gotten here. Regardless of that, there is only time for one last question: I’m ready, Are you ?
Friday, April 2, 2010
What Kind of World Do You Want?.... History Starts Now......
I recently heard from a close source of mine that the great John Ondrasik is coming to perform at Penn's Landing this summer! As this name may not ring a bell for some of you, I think you may better know him by his stage name, Five For Fighting.
I remember last summer when I ordered all three of his bigger albums via EBay, I had known a few songs of his, probably the same hits that you hear on the radio all the time, but not much else. What I discovered was one of the greatest lyric writers and performers of our time thanks to his CDs. I think the one thing that stands to me about his music is the messages he sends. Each and every one of his songs has a line, and possibly more, that stands out and gives a clear message about life. It is safe to say that there are very few artists who are in this elite group which helps set him apart from most of the other artists out there today.
He recently released a new album, Slice, and I must say that he has not lost his touch. I would highly recommend this album to anyone who is a fan of his music. Personally, my favorite song of his is on his album. That would be the song, Chances, the first single from the new album. Trust me, this album will not disappoint as FFF once again delivers lessons and strong messages to his listeners in each song he produces.
PS: Did you know that the name Five for Fighting was coined from John's love of sports and most specifically hockey....
I remember last summer when I ordered all three of his bigger albums via EBay, I had known a few songs of his, probably the same hits that you hear on the radio all the time, but not much else. What I discovered was one of the greatest lyric writers and performers of our time thanks to his CDs. I think the one thing that stands to me about his music is the messages he sends. Each and every one of his songs has a line, and possibly more, that stands out and gives a clear message about life. It is safe to say that there are very few artists who are in this elite group which helps set him apart from most of the other artists out there today.
He recently released a new album, Slice, and I must say that he has not lost his touch. I would highly recommend this album to anyone who is a fan of his music. Personally, my favorite song of his is on his album. That would be the song, Chances, the first single from the new album. Trust me, this album will not disappoint as FFF once again delivers lessons and strong messages to his listeners in each song he produces.
PS: Did you know that the name Five for Fighting was coined from John's love of sports and most specifically hockey....
Monday, March 29, 2010
Passion Play with Memories both Happy & Sad
As I sat watching my younger sister’s passion play last night, it brought back a myriad of memories from my childhood. I remember sitting in the church afternoon after afternoon for the last three weeks leading up until the performance. Playing one of the apostles ironically was one of the easier parts in the play. The dancers had it rough as they had to continually rehearse their routines to them just perfectly. There was no small detail that was not scrutinized by our amazing director, Mrs. Dormer. There was no scene that wasn’t drilled into our heads. It had to be perfect; there were no excuses. We worked hard for that one shining moment, and when the time came, we pass the challenge with flying colors. The result were four shining performances of one of my grade schools oldest traditions; the 8th Grade Passion Play.
Of course with these memories brought with it a heavy sadness. Our legendary director, Mrs. Linda Dormer, is sad to say, no longer with us. She was diagnosed with cancer shortly after we graduated and passed away just about a year later. Our show was the last full show that she helped to produce. When the next show came around, she was too ill to participate as much as she did the previous years. I remember our brief conversation behind the scenes of the play performed the year after ours. Little did I know that our conversation that night would be the last time I ever would see her.
I remember attending her funeral in a packed church; all of whom had come to say goodbye to a great women. I’ll admit that I may not have been mature enough during that year to fully understand everything she helped teach me, but looking back now, it all makes perfect sense. She was truly one of the most influential and inspiring teachers that I have ever had in my lifetime. She was taken much too young and I know she looks down now and watches over all her former students whom she helped to develop into young men and women. R.I.P Mrs. Dormer.
It has been six years since I last saw and a Passion play and this year was officially my last show with my sister graduating this year. Boy had the show changed. I honestly do not know if I can accurately judge it since I have a serious bias. No director could possibly replace the one they lost nearly 6 years ago. In all, I was shocked at how much was cut out of the play itself. Small, vitals scenes that took my classmates and me rehearsal after rehearsal to get down just right were pulled right out of the play. It felt rushed to me and the removal of those scenes did not help to gain it my good review.
My sister was great in the play, but I was just disappointed in how the play has gone from a 90 minute, relaxing, and smooth flowing tale of Christ’s passion and death to a 55 minute, sped up performance that did not give the audience enough time to relish any of the scenes. Maybe it’s the sign of the times, as the classes shrink at my former grade school, so does their attempt to keep a strong tradition alive. The performers all did a fantastic job, don’t get me wrong, I just wish they didn’t change so much of the overall play so much. One wonders if the director just didn’t want to put in as much time, effort, and dedication as was needed to do a terrific performance like the ones from the past.
Of course with these memories brought with it a heavy sadness. Our legendary director, Mrs. Linda Dormer, is sad to say, no longer with us. She was diagnosed with cancer shortly after we graduated and passed away just about a year later. Our show was the last full show that she helped to produce. When the next show came around, she was too ill to participate as much as she did the previous years. I remember our brief conversation behind the scenes of the play performed the year after ours. Little did I know that our conversation that night would be the last time I ever would see her.
I remember attending her funeral in a packed church; all of whom had come to say goodbye to a great women. I’ll admit that I may not have been mature enough during that year to fully understand everything she helped teach me, but looking back now, it all makes perfect sense. She was truly one of the most influential and inspiring teachers that I have ever had in my lifetime. She was taken much too young and I know she looks down now and watches over all her former students whom she helped to develop into young men and women. R.I.P Mrs. Dormer.
It has been six years since I last saw and a Passion play and this year was officially my last show with my sister graduating this year. Boy had the show changed. I honestly do not know if I can accurately judge it since I have a serious bias. No director could possibly replace the one they lost nearly 6 years ago. In all, I was shocked at how much was cut out of the play itself. Small, vitals scenes that took my classmates and me rehearsal after rehearsal to get down just right were pulled right out of the play. It felt rushed to me and the removal of those scenes did not help to gain it my good review.
My sister was great in the play, but I was just disappointed in how the play has gone from a 90 minute, relaxing, and smooth flowing tale of Christ’s passion and death to a 55 minute, sped up performance that did not give the audience enough time to relish any of the scenes. Maybe it’s the sign of the times, as the classes shrink at my former grade school, so does their attempt to keep a strong tradition alive. The performers all did a fantastic job, don’t get me wrong, I just wish they didn’t change so much of the overall play so much. One wonders if the director just didn’t want to put in as much time, effort, and dedication as was needed to do a terrific performance like the ones from the past.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Priorities are Key to College Success
I had a conversation the other day with a friend of mine who was graduating high school this spring. He asked me what the trick to the whole college deal was. It took me a few minutes to answer, I honestly had never thought about such a thing before. I guess nobody had asked me about it until now. The answer I gave him was priorities. The trick to college is knowing what you want and sticking to it regardless of what else occurs in your life.
If you come into college, I told him, with the attitude that it is all about drinking and parties then you will eventually struggle. I’m not saying you cannot have a little time to have fun and let loose, but you need to have that in moderation. The trick is to stay focused and not let any other person or event or beverage get in your way. Moderation and setting your priorities is vital to successful college career. I know of a few people who have flopped or are struggling now due to the lack of this idea. You can have your fun, but you also need to know when it is time to get down to work.
Some of you may question why I write this since most of my readers are probably already in college. I guess I am writing this for those who may read this who are not yet in college or for those people still trying to find their way in their upper education settings. For all those people, I hope this helped you in your quest. I wish everyone currently in college and about to enter college, the best of luck in their upcoming studies. I welcome comments on here if you agree or disagree with what I’ve said or if you have any other tips for upcoming college students feel free to post them here.
If you come into college, I told him, with the attitude that it is all about drinking and parties then you will eventually struggle. I’m not saying you cannot have a little time to have fun and let loose, but you need to have that in moderation. The trick is to stay focused and not let any other person or event or beverage get in your way. Moderation and setting your priorities is vital to successful college career. I know of a few people who have flopped or are struggling now due to the lack of this idea. You can have your fun, but you also need to know when it is time to get down to work.
Some of you may question why I write this since most of my readers are probably already in college. I guess I am writing this for those who may read this who are not yet in college or for those people still trying to find their way in their upper education settings. For all those people, I hope this helped you in your quest. I wish everyone currently in college and about to enter college, the best of luck in their upcoming studies. I welcome comments on here if you agree or disagree with what I’ve said or if you have any other tips for upcoming college students feel free to post them here.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
A New Day in the Blogging World
Hello All!
Ok, So I know I have claimed this before and this time I am actually delivering on my promises. I guess that disqualifies me as a politician, but oh well. I have said in the past I am revising my blog and now I have done it. This is the grand new opening of my main blog, Shieldsy’s Symposium. I erased my sporadically posted earlier blogs and started anew vowing to post at least 4-5 a week and maybe more.
I also am introducing a new sports blog (name TBD), where I will stick solely to sports commentating and analysis about the various sports I like to follow which include primarily, but not limited to, baseball and college basketball. If anyone has a name in mind that I could use for this blog, I would greatly appreciate it.
Anyhoo, to my loyal fans if there are any out there, I thank you for sticking with me and I hope I can keep this new posting schedule. This starts what I hope to be a new blogging experience for myself.
Good tidings to all.
Ok, So I know I have claimed this before and this time I am actually delivering on my promises. I guess that disqualifies me as a politician, but oh well. I have said in the past I am revising my blog and now I have done it. This is the grand new opening of my main blog, Shieldsy’s Symposium. I erased my sporadically posted earlier blogs and started anew vowing to post at least 4-5 a week and maybe more.
I also am introducing a new sports blog (name TBD), where I will stick solely to sports commentating and analysis about the various sports I like to follow which include primarily, but not limited to, baseball and college basketball. If anyone has a name in mind that I could use for this blog, I would greatly appreciate it.
Anyhoo, to my loyal fans if there are any out there, I thank you for sticking with me and I hope I can keep this new posting schedule. This starts what I hope to be a new blogging experience for myself.
Good tidings to all.
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