Awkwardness: Just Another Way of Life (29)

Something interesting came across my ears just recently. Apparently, I am viewed as a very awkward person. At first, I wasn’t sure how to refute this claim, but the more I imagined it, the more I realize that this observation is not entirely inaccurate.

I am an awkward person, I’ll admit that. I am often shy and quiet around larger groups of people thus creating this impression. However this is a way that I am willing to embrace. So for those of you charging me with this label, I will defend myself here. I see nothing wrong with who I truly am and I am not sure why other people chose to do so.

Unlike other people I know, I was born with a deep love of writing. I am a writer and reader. We are supposed to be a little awkward. I would rather convey my thoughts through writing rather than in person. This is just how I was created, I cannot help it. If the desire to be silent in an otherwise loud world makes me an “awkward” person, then so be it. It doesn’t make me a bad person or someone that should be mocked or looked down upon. I just prefer to communicate in a different way. This was just how I was made. I can’t help it; it’s just part of my inner wiring.

I love sports as much as the next guy, but instead of reading a box score at the end of a game, I would prefer to write my own recap complete with a mini analysis from my own personal opinions. In a society where a whole virtual world is available to communicate with each via texts, you would think that writers like me would be more accepted. Instead, we are still labeled as the awkward members of society.

I’m complaining about this, I am just asking for a little acceptance. Writers and readers are what make this planet go. They are two of the basic skills that can prove vital in anyone’s life. I just don’t see why people who are a little bit different are often the outcasts of society. We’re just like everyone else; we just do things in a slightly different matter then most of you. So please, be more accepting of those around you. Someone may have more awkward ways then yourself; that is nothing to fault them for.

There is really no difference between you two. In the end, we both are human. 

My Top TV Shows # 16: Mythbusters (28)

So the next show on my countdown is a science program, but not in the science-fiction realm. It was a show that I never knew even existed until my freshman year of high school. My science teacher used to let us watch it all the time. Now, I was never very fond of him, and exposing me to this program may have been the best thing that he could have ever did for me. I guess in a very odd way, I actually of owe him, although it is safe to assume that I will never see him again. So, here is it - #16 on my countdown.

My Favorite TV Show #16: Mythbusters 

At first glance, this show doesn’t seem to be the type of thing that I would be into. It consists of a pair of guys going all out to bust everyday myths. The hosts of the show are special effects experts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman.

I think what I love about this show is the way that the hosts go about it. They take a small myth, such as breaking glass with a human voice, and exaggerate it to the extreme. After ordinary means fail them, they boost up the ante and have a hell of a time doing it. One of their favorite tricks is blowing things up; a trick, I admit, is one that I enjoy watching these experts perform.

I have to admit that this show is much more popular than I had ever imagined. It seems to have become a cult phenomenon and has an extensive following.

Aside from having unbelievable stunts, this show can also teach you a lot. As silly as it sounds, there is always something that I seem to learn from viewing it. Plus, it is also intriguing to see how these everyday myths can be put to the test and whether or not they stand up in the end.

Well ladies and gents, this is the end of this countdown for tonight.

Have a wonderful evening everyone! 

My Top TV Shows # 17: Mystery Science Theater (27)

Alright, I may have fibbed just a bit on my last post. I claimed that the next show on my list was of the Science Fiction genre. Now, technically it is science-fiction in its content, but the I would classify this show as more of a comedy than an actual Sci-Fi program. Those of you whom have seen this show before know exactly what I mean. Here it is, # 17 on my countdown…

My Favorite TV Show #17: Mystery Science Theater 3000 

Now I am not sure how many of you remember and or know about this show. It used to be on Sci-Fi every Saturday morning. Sadly, they stopped it for no apparently reason. I used to watch MST3000 religiously every morning until it vanished.

The show was a simple concept. It was a guy plus 2 robots; the three of them watching crappy horror films and gave their commentary throughout the film. It is basically a show that indulged on the national pastime for anyone that watched these movies. Now, I love watching these shows as much as the next guy, and I love commenting on them as much as the next guy, but these guys were gods at the sarcastic, witty, and humorous comments.

Anyone that knows me knows that I am fan of the witty, stupid and downright sarcastic humor. This show was right up my alley and totally a program that I could have starred on. I’m still not really sure what became of it and why Sci-Fi suddenly booted it off the air.

I included a clip in here from a horrible sci-fi film that they covered. Watch and enjoy! Oh and I totally want to start a petition to bring this show back onto the airwaves! Anyone with me?!

Watch out tonight for at least one more post in this countdown!

My Top TV Shows # 18: Star Trek (26)

Good evening all,

I know its been a few days since I have continued this TV show countdown and I apologize. However, those of you eagerly awaiting my next post can wait no longer. Tonight is the night when I am going to deliver a trio of countdown entries starting with number 18. This is an older show that I have loved ever since my childhood when I first encountered an episode. So, here it is…

My Favorite TV Show #18: Star Trek 

Yes, I am a Trekkie and I am not afraid to admit it. Now, this is the original series that I am referring to in this post. There is another Star Trek series in this countdown, but that will come later on down the line.

I always have been a fan of the Sci-Fi type shows. I love imagining the imaginable; reading about the impossible, and picturing myself doing things that only exist in the wonderful world of fantasy. As a writer, Sci-Fi is my primary genre. This show lets you sit back and just imagine what could out there. We have no idea what the world around us contains and we get a chance to play pretend with this show.

Star Trek was a new breed of Science Fiction. It is one of the cornerstones of the genre (along with Dr. Who, which will most definitely be on this list later, as well other earlier Science Fiction programs). William Shatner as Captain Kirk is one of my favorite television characters of all time. Throw in Leonard Nimoy as the logical Mr. Spock and you have one of the greatest duos in the history of TV.

I think Star Trek has seen a reboot in popularity due to the recent movie that came out. Personally, I loved the movie. You don’t have to be a Star Trek fan or “Trekkie” to enjoy this special effects filled masterpiece. I recommend it to everyone.

It is safe to say that there are several Science Fiction programs coming up on the list. Stay tuned later tonight for # 17 on my list. It is yet another Sci-Fi program. 

My Top TV Shows # 19: The Daily Show with John Stewart (25)

Good afternoon everyone,

I sit here wanting to do some blogging. I couldn’t think of what to exactly type so I decided to continue my top TV show countdown. For those of you following, we sit currently at # 19 on my top 25 list. For this next 

 show, it is my last and final talk show that you will see during this countdown.

My Favorite TV Shows # 19: The Daily Show with John Stewart

I was never a big watcher of the news. It is bad; honestly, sometimes I am one of the last to find out about major events occurring in our world thanks to this factor. If there is any type of news program that I can safely say that I watch on a daily basis it is The Daily Show.

I am not big on politics on either side of the equation so all political humor is fair game to me. John Stewart brings this with each episode. Now only does he discuss important news stories going on across the nation, he adds his own humorous twist to it.

Another thing that I enjoy about this show is that Stewart is an honest reporter; he picks on both sides of the equation equally and doesn’t play favorites. He also does his research and often catches politicians and other outspoken individuals in lies backing up his finding with various video clips. He reminds me a lot of what Edward Murrow did against Joseph McCarthy. I am a huge fan of Murrow and his work and of Stewart’s as well. (Anyone not familiar with Murrow and McCarthy should check out the movie, Good Night and Good Luck, a quality, and one of my favorite films.)

Anyone that finds a problem with this show clearly takes themselves and their politics too seriously to sit back and laugh. We all need to take time to laugh at ourselves and those in the position of power.  There is so much tension in the political arena these days, and we need the lighthearted side of things to relieve some of that.

Stay tuned for # 18, most likely soon, tonight, after this post!

Mother Nature is in Hormonal Mode! Watch Out! (24)

Am I the only one irked by this crazy weather that we have been having lately? The fluctuating temperatures, annoying hard winds, and snow all have to stop sooner rather than later. 

Now, I am not a meteorologist so I don’t understand all the specifics that go into creating the weather. So, I did some thinking and I think I have a logical, non-scientific, explanation for these rowdy changes and occurrences. The more I think about it, the simpler the answer seems. “Mother Nature” as the source behind all this is referred is simply going through her monthly cycle. 

A close female friend of mine, has described herself as “Captain Crazy” during this particular time and I don’t think there is a better description of the weather right now. Now, I am not trying to bash women here, I am just taking a humorous outlook at the crazed Mother Nature this winter season. In short, Mother Nature is hormonal mode. That would explain the temperature swings, wacky wind, and the crazy amounts of snow, more of which is apparently scheduled for next week. (ugh)!  I apologize if anyone of the fairer sex takes offense to this, but I have no intention of doing that with this post. Quite simply, I just want to give my readers a laugh. 

I mean, Think about it, the last few days have been beautiful. We have been walking around in shorts and tee-shirts in temperatures that some have related to summer like numbers. However, once glance at the ground reveals the piles of snow that one can see in places here and there.  Now, there is a paralyzing wind blowing around out there that seemingly came out of nowhere. I misplaced a paper today outside and spent 10 minutes playing tag with the wind trying to recover my document. I can honestly say that it was exhausting and I hope that I don’t get that honor again. 

Can anyone disagree that this winter season has been anything short of nuts? It makes one wonder if and when that we will not have to worry about any more snow storms and just concentrate on nice spring weather (or as I like to call it, baseball weather). 

So you have heard my opinion on the matter, what do you guys think? I mean, is there any non-technical explanation for this? Let me know what you think!

Oh and do me a favor everyone and watch it when you use the automatic doors on campus, the wind likes to blow and swing the doors into incoming pedestrians. Don’t ask me how I know. 0_0… Let’s just say that I learned this lesson in a very painful way. It is safe to say that I will never forget it. 

Have a good and safe night everyone!

My Top TV Shows # 20: Whose Line Is it Anyway (23)

Hello all! I hope you are enjoying the gorgeous weather. I am hanging around inside waiting for my roommate to awaken for food, so I decided to do some blogging in the mean time. 

After a day’s reprieve, I think it is as good as a time as any to continue my TV Show countdown. We have reach #20 and are just about to break into the teens. So, sit back – relax and enjoy the programming as you read about my 20^th favorite television show.

My Favorite TV Shows # 20: Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Everytime I see this show on television, it brings back many memories. Whose Line was one of the shows that my family and I watched regularly when it was on. It is simply one of the funniest shows on television. It still is and remains today, one of the funniest shows that I can recall.

The trio of Wayne Brady, Colin Mockery, and Ryan Stiles were a delight to watch in every episode. Throw in Drew Carey as the host and you have a quality show on your hands. Sometimes, the “fourth” person, who would vary from show to show, would be funny, but the 3 regulars were the real stars of the program.

For those of you not familiar with the show; It was based entirely on improvisation. The performers would come up in various scenes and games and totally act out everything you see right off the top of their heads. It was roughly based off the British version, which I have to admit was not as good as the American version. Both were good, but the Americans did it better.

I best remember this show for its special skits. Scenes featuring special guest stars Robin Williams, Stephen Colbert, and even the flamboyant Richard Simmons, were some of the classic scenes. Simmons was probably the best, and I would recommend checking that out if you haven’t seen it.

Sadly, the show isn’t on as much anymore. ABC Family does have times with a mini marathon, but usually I just happen onto it by accident. 

Check back later as we get ever closer to my # 1!

My Top TV Shows # 21: Burn Notice (22)

Well, they say that 3^rd Time’s a charm so here we go. I’m sitting here waiting to venture off to the wonderful  world of Flannery’s English Seminar class, and with nothing else to do, I thought I would do one last part of my countdown before I leave. So, here is the next part of my favorite TV show countdown with # 21. 

My Favorite TV Shows # 24: Burn Notice

This is the first USA original show to be on my countdown, although *spoiler*, it will most certainly not be the last. The show stars Jeffrey Donovan as agent Michael Westen, a former spy whom has been burned by his former organization and currently works as a hired hand for those that need him. 

One thing that I really like about it is the amount of action in the show as well as the strategic plans that are put forth. As a member of the audience, I like to think when watching a TV show or a movie and I think this show helps me do that. I like creative plans that solve problems in unusual fashion. This show does all that and more. I am also a big fan of Donovan’s acting in the show; he has that nice spy persona down and portrays his role nicely.

Another part that I like about the show is the narrative point of view. The story is told from the viewpoint of Westen himself so he speaks in first person. There are not many shows like this on TV and I enjoy this unique aspect of the program. He tells the story, adds him commentary and kicks villain’s behinds in the process. There are shootouts, fist fights, and explosions, a lot of explosions, in the show. It provides that spy atmosphere and that is something that I am a big fan of. 

The show is currently on its 4^th season, but has been renewed for its 5^th and 6^th seasons so thankfully we will be seeing much more of this fine show!

Sorry to say folks, but this is all you’re getting from me tonight, at least before seminar. I will see how it goes later on. Have a great evening!

My Top TV Shows # 22: Scrubs (21)

Right on the heels of my post with # 23 in this countdown, I bring you the next installment of my favorite TV shows countdown with the 22^nd ranked show on my list. 

My Favorite TV Shows # 22: Scrubs

My friend Dan would probably be excited to see this show on this list, since it is one of his personal favorites, although I am not sure how excited he would be to see this so low. 

I remember when Scrubs was first on the air and I never really watched it that much. After the pressure of hearing countless great things about the program as well as a recommendation of some friends of mine, did I start watching this show as regularly as possible.

The show centered around a group of doctors and their hilarious adventures. I think what I like so much about this show, at least in the early seasons, was the randomness that came with it. The two main characters: J.D. and Turk are two of the craziest characters that you would ever see on television. They let their minds run wild constantly and create these ridiculous fantasies that I myself, could picture myself imagining. I think I connected to that creativeness and silliness that pervaded the show.

My favorite character of the show though will always be Dr. Cox played John C. McGinley. The guy is hysterical. He is sarcastic, rude, and always comes up with the perfect line to add humor to a situation. Again, I guess my theme of sarcastic doctors continues here. There will be at least one more notable one in the countdown, but that will be towards the very end.

Another thing I enjoyed about the show is that, even with all its funniness, it always seemed to teach a valuable lesson. Sometimes, the characters had to learn the hard way, but there was always something to be learned by episode’s end.

I am not a fan of the final seasons, when most of the cast is missing or making select cameos. The show ended a couple years too late if you ask me, but those earlier seasons are classics!

My Top TV Shows # 23: Becker (20)

Hello all!

I know you have been eagerly waiting my next installment in my top 25 favorite TV shows,  and if not then I don’t know what you’re reading this post to be honest. So, for those of you, if there is anyone, interested in this stuff: here is #23 on my list.

My Favorite TV Shows # 24: Becker

My mom got me into this show at a very young age. This and Frasier, which may still come in this countdown, wait and see, were two of my favorite shows growing up.

I’m not sure how many of you remember of have even seen this show, but it starred Ted Danson as Dr. John Becker, a sarcastic doctor trying to make his way with his practice in New York. Ted Danson was great as the Doc, with his sarcastic, yet caring attitude. A graduate of Harvard Medical, Dr. Becker finds the simplest things irritating including noisy neighbors, annoying patients, and kindness. Yes, kindness seemed to bug him. He is not the only doctor show with a main character with trait in my countdown. I guess, I have a thing for shows about sarcastic doctors as you will see later on.  

Personally, I think what I liked so much about the show was the likable cast of characters that he had around him. From his blind friend, Jake, whom worked with the café that Becker visited on a routine basis, run by Reggie, I liked her way more than the woman then Chris, who took over for Reggie in the last couple of seasons, to the always scheming and shady Bob, all the casts seemed to fit together nicely and that is what I enjoyed so much about the program.

It’s actually a shame that it is nearly impossible to find Becker on TV anymore; it is definitely one that I would love to see on a more regular basis. I guess, that is what DVDs are for.  

Stay tuned for # 22 soon!

My Top TV Shows # 24: The Golden Girls (19)

Hello all!

So, as promised, here is my next segment in my top TV shows.

My Favorite TV Shows # 24: Golden Girls

Anytime I mention this show, I get one of two responses; males tend to question my sexuality in more colorful terms, while females tend to agree with the greatest of this program.

The show focused around 4 elderly women living in the same household and their hilarious situations that they got into. It starred Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, Estelle Getty. My personal favorite was Estelle Getty’s character of Sophia, the mother of Bea Arthur’s character on the show.

Now, Golden Girls hasn’t been on for quite some time, and sad to say that only one Golden Girl remains, and that is of course, the legendary Betty White. I’m not afraid to admit that I loved this show. I used to watch it all the time, or at least the reruns of it on Lifetime. I don’t get to watch it that much anymore, but it still remains as one of my favorites.

I think the chemistry was what made the show. I loved how the main characters interacted with each other and that created an atmosphere that made the show that much enjoyable. Throw in their hilarious adventures, antics, as well as Sophia’s trips back to Sicily as well as her perfect one-liners and that was all you needed.

It’s a shame that three of the girls are gone. Rest in peace Bea, Rue, and Estelle. You will forever be missed. Let’s hope that Betty White lives forever. 

Stay tuned for #23! 

My Top TV Shows # 25: The Ellen DeGeneres Show (18)

Hello All!

So I sit here watching or should I say waiting for the Ellen Show, yes I am not afraid to admit that I truly enjoy this show, since the coverage has switched to a statement from our president on Egypt and how they have finally toppled their leadership (more on this story to come).

Anyhoo, as I wait for Ellen, a sudden idea came to me. I have been looking for a segment that I could do on this blog. Well, I may have discovered one. I’m going to countdown my 25 favorite television shows.  I will do a single post per show and will try to keep it going daily, but may post more often from time to time so stay tuned!

So, here begins my top 25 countdown of my personal favorite TV shows. The shows range from all different types of genres, from current shows to older shows, I include all of them.  I guess my inspiration is helped by the idea that Ellen will be starting the list at # 25.

My Favorite TV Shows # 25: The Ellen DeGeneres Show 

This will be the first and only talk show on my list, unless of course you count the *Spoiler Alert* Daily Show as a talk show as well since that will be coming later on in my countdown.

What I enjoy about Dory, eh I mean Ellen, is how personable that she is. It’s a very light-hearted show and a perfect break needed in the middle of a busy day. She interacts with the audience way more than most other hosts do. Her flamboyant and energy filled personality is just perfect for a talk show.  I usually don’t even watch typical talk shows, but this one I greatly enjoy. Ellen is bringing a younger, fresher look to television and soon will eclipse Oprah as the Queen of Television, if she hasn’t already.

Honestly, I don’t get to watch it very often with my schedule, but when I finally get to sit down and relax; her show is high on my list to watch. 

Look for more in this countdown later on down the road! Have a great day everyone

Happy Birthday Babe Ruth: Saluting the Greatest Baseball Player Ever

Hello again!

Something was brought to my attention just now via a friend of mine, but today is the birthday of the greatest baseball player to ever step foot on a diamond, no I am not speaking about Albert Pujols although his Ego may be the biggest of all time. I am speaking about the one, the only, Mr. George Herman Ruth.

No matter how you refer to him, Babe Ruth, The Bambino, The Sultan of Swat, or any other name, there is little argument that he was the greatest ever.  Need further proof? Just look at the stats: .342 Batting Average, 714 Steroid-Free Home Runs, 2873 hits, 2217 RBIs, .690 Slugging percentage, and 1.164 career on-base percentage. And that was just his hitting.

Ruth also hit it big as a pitcher posting a career record of 94-46 with a great 2.28 ERA. You don’t see any sluggers today that pitch and you probably never will. I guess that ends the argument on the greatest MLB player of all time. There will never be another like him ever. The game has changed too much. Ruth is untouchable.  

If you can name a better player in the history of the game, then I welcome your argument. I just doubt you can.

So, I salute you George Herman Ruth and wish Happy Birthday to you as well, you are truly the greatest player to ever play the game of baseball. 

Until we speak again, have a great day everyone!

My Superbowl Pick! (16)

Good Morning All and a Happy Superbowl Sunday as well!

I guess that you are all wondering on my Superbowl pick.  I will be rooting my Steelers on tonight, although my picks for games are always objective as can be.

So far, I am just 6-4 in these playoffs, which isn’t good. I guess as long as I get this final game right, we can call it a successful playoff picking season. 

So without further ado, here is my Superbowl Picks:

I’m expecting a shootout tonight with the Steelers holding on to beat out the Packers.

My prediction:

Steelers – 28

Packers – 24

Have a wonderful Sunday everyone and Go Steelers!

Happy Woodchuck Day Everyone! (15)

Hello and good Wednesday afternoon to everyone!

I hope you are all safe and sound in your travels on this cold, icy day.

For those of you getting sick of all this cold, snow, and ice crap, I have some good news to report. Our old buddy, and friend to the blog, Punxsutawney Phil saw his didn’t see his shadow this morning so that means just two more weeks of winter. 

Now, this whole shadow deal could be real and this little groundhog could have magical prediction abilities. It could just be that the occurrence of him seeing his shadow relies solely on whether or not the sun is out that particular February 2^nd. With all the snowy conditions, there is no sun out so are you really surprised that he didn’t see his shadow? I apologize to all those who believe in this silly way of predicting the weather, but I am not a big believer.

I recently read a story that said that Phil is correct only about 40% of the time. Although, I guess we need to give him some credit since that seems to be a higher accuracy than most television meteorologists.

Phil has been doing his gig for 125 years now, which is way beyond the expected lifespan of a typical groundhog. In fact, most groundhogs barely live past their first year of life. I guess we have an imposter in our midst!

If we do have a new groundhog from time to time, I wonder if we could spruce it up a little bit and give each their individual name. I mean as catchy as Punxsutawney Phil is, the name rests with the original groundhog and should be changed. How about Wally the Woodchuck? Woodchuck is just another name for a groundhog after all and has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?

Oh well, I guess it’s just tradition and sometimes that is really all that you need.

Oh and New York is totally trying to steal PA’s thunder. Surprised? Chuck isn’t even a good name for a groundhog. I guess it is a play-off of the “wood-chuck.” Even way, I’ll take Punxsutawney Phil any day over Chuck.

Happy Woodchuck Day everyone.