The Road Less Traveled By

Blogalicious

2008-07-26T18:20:00.002-05:00

Did I spell that right...?

haha. okay.

I have my new blog up and running... mostly :-)

Check it out when you can:

http://zacpenix.com/blog

Wordpress

2008-07-24T20:55:00.004-05:00

I love blogspot... but I am attempting to run my own locally hosted WordPress blog.

I will probably still keep this blogspot blog b/c of its ease of use...

If you get bored, you can see what I am tinkering with here.

http://zacpenix.com/

*** EDIT:

So, I had my blog up and running... then found out I made a mistake in how I setup the database... well, not a mistake, but rather, I used a name I didnt like... haha.

So, instead of "just dealing with it", I wiped the site, and I am starting over... haha. As soon as I have time, it will be up and running. Also, because of the great storage space I am getting from DreamHost, I should also have a web gallery up and running soon.

I will let you know when that happens.... until then, keep your fingers crossed. :-)

The link will be the same.

quote of the day

2008-07-24T13:47:00.001-05:00

"Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all."

-George Washington

Ascended Saiyan

2008-07-21T21:45:00.005-05:00

My profile picture for several social webs:

An explanation:

The first transformation to Super Saiyan occurs involuntarily, when a Saiyan has reached his natural limit and is overcome with intense emotion. Future transformations are achieved when the Saiyans massively increase a certain energy in their bodies called chi.

Some history:

It is known among the Saiyans THE SUPER SAIYAN LEGEND that says: "Every certain time a gifted child is born, that child would never meet limits, he would reach an unimaginable power and he'd be a blooded warrior. But the child isn't born as a SUPER SAIYAN he must reach that level, mainly by training real hard. A SUPER SAIYAN could be recognized easily by his blond hair, his body and muscles grows

When they get SUPER SAIYAN level their hair turns blond and their body grows, "reaching unreachable power", their eyes turn blue or green. The first Saiyan to ever reach this level in Dragon Ball is Goku, then Vegeta, later Future Trunks, Gohan... and the others.

So now you know. :-)

Super cute...

2008-07-20T22:43:00.003-05:00

I think it is inherently masculine to recognize beauty. In fact, I would go as far as to say, recognizing beauty should be more of a masculine characteristic than a feminine one. I would prototypically expect a woman to create beauty rather than recognize or imitate it. From man, I would expect only humorous attempts at imitation and/or bold and pronounced statements identifying some form of beauty in this world.

Woah, where did this come from?

Well... since you asked: It has come from my more frequent use of the word "cute" and "beautiful", in such excess that a few of my more masculine friends have began to patronize me for it. And then (as usual I suppose)... I began to actually think about it. And the more I thought, the more I decided that it is more proper for a guy to use the word cute and/or beautiful than it would be for a girl to use the same term.

By guy/girl I am of course referencing the normal society steriotypes. Well, that and traditional Bible language.

All this now having been said. I am reclaiming the position of "identifier of beauty"... and yes, I am still going to leave the pink shirts to the ladies.

possible Beckinsale replacement

2008-07-20T14:38:00.003-05:00

I should probably not have a crush on a married woman... so here is my second pick.

Batman: Ending Quote

2008-07-19T10:37:00.002-05:00

The last lines to the new Batman movie.

Because he's the hero that Gotham deserves, but not the one it needs right now... and so we'll hunt him... because he can take it... because he's not a hero... he's a silent guardian, a watchful protector... a Dark Knight...

iphone 3G

2008-07-12T00:01:00.004-05:00

As great as I think it is.... I believe I am going to be sticking with the original iphone, at least for the time being:

Major reasons why:

1) I am moving to Norman in a month... where there is no 3G coverage.
2) I have never found myself needing super accurate GPS, unless I was in my car... where I have a GPS, lol.
3) Over your locked 2 year contract, you pay an extra $360 for the iphone 3G... and I would bet you will not be "eligible" for a new phone for some time.
4) Instead of spending $560 ($200+$360) to carry a iphone 3G... I am going to upgrade my SMS plan by $5 a month to get unlimited texting. (yes, I am a looser) and spend a few bucks buying some good apps (once the market sorts out which ones are worth $$$
5) I ran over my last iphone with a car... and I just know if I did the same with the 3G, I would kill someone if I had to shell out another $500 for a phone.
6) Technically, I have to give up my phone, back to its actual owner (I am on a loaner)... but my parents will be upgrading, leaving two nice 8gigs to choose from. :-)
7) Lastly, having the 2.0 firmware on the old iphone is an amazing incentive to stay with old faithful. haha

Bonus) I was handed down a bluetooth headset that will only work with the current iphone... it is like an $80 deal that requires the first gen dock... of which the new iphone will not fit into...

Complaining

2008-07-11T14:54:00.002-05:00

It is amusing, really. Some people become so obsessed with complaining about a problem they forget that the objective was to overcome...

At the end of the day, everything is going to be okay. No, the world isnt going to end. Sure, you may have to work a bit harder, and stretch a bit further... but in the end, it is still your decision. You still have the choice to not do this.

My parents have lived like this their entire life. All growing up, raising 3 kids, they did what had to be done. My mother, after she gave birth to my sister, that same day, she was doing paperwork for her business.

I think my family is just hardcore. Though, that may also be why my parents retired by the time they hit 36/34.

Just a random interesting though.

Public Influence

2008-07-11T11:35:00.002-05:00

Two points:

Major: I find it really interesting that this person had such an influence on this topic that he made MSNBC. He is a pseudo-YouTube star who started making videos a year ago just giving a funny take on the news that mattered to him.

Minor: This event that they are talking about is actually quite a scary deal... and I have no clue how it was made possible.

sxephil's MSNBC mention: http://www.phillyd.tv/?p=517

original video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGfAu_HRz6g

time is relative

2008-07-09T15:58:00.002-05:00

It amazes me how time seems so relative.

When I was a kid, a 1.5 hour drive seemed like my entire life. Now, it is just a jaunt to the lake.

What I really want to know is, have I grown more patient... or have I just become desensitized to life?

marketing

2008-07-09T10:18:00.003-05:00

Does the phrase "America Runs on Dunkin" amuse anyone else...

haha, no kidding

2008-07-08T11:37:00.004-05:00

Seriously. This is what I have been thinking lately.

Lyrics:

I was going to spell it out in full detail, but
I dropped the call before I spilled my guts
And your floor stayed clean, like my conscience will be
Cause if you heard anything, you didn't hear it from me

And I'm sweeping up the seconds that tick off the clock
And saving them for later when I'm too Ticked to talk
And I need some time to search my mind
To locate the words that seem so hard to find

'Cause sometimes I say things that
I wish that I could take back
The most crucial thing I lack
Is a thing called tact
And if you're always so intently listening
Then the smartest thing to say is to tell myself not to say a thing

Yeah, I gotta keep quiet, quiet
Don't let it all come undone
Cause if I dare open my mouth
It'll just be to bite my tongue
To bite my tongue

It seems I'm always close minded with an open mouth
And the worst of me seems to come right out
But I've never broken bones with a stone or a stick
But I'll conjure up a phrase that can cut to the quick

'Cause sometimes I say things that
I wish I could take back
Then the smartest thing to say is to tell myself to keep-

Quiet, quiet
Don't let it all come undone
'Cause if I dare open my mouth,
It'll just be to bite my tongue
Yeah, I gotta keep quiet, quiet
And listen to your voice
Because the power of Your words
Can repair all that I've destroyed

And when you finally do
Let it come from you
The peace of understanding grips my soul
You're the reason I've
Found meaning in this life
So I'll swallow up my pride and give you control
I give it to You

Yeah, I gotta keep quiet, quiet
Don't let it all come undone
Cause if I dare open my mouth
It'll just be to bite my tongue
Yeah, I gotta keep quiet, quiet
And listen to your voice
Because the power of your words
Can repair all that I've destroyed

Yeah, I gotta keep quiet, quiet
Don't let it all come undone
'Cause if I dare open my mouth
It'll just be to bite my tongue
To bite my tongue

ramble ramble

2008-07-07T23:48:00.002-05:00

I have absolutely nothing to say. You should close this page now.

I enjoy working on projects. If supplied with ample food, drink, and brief break activities (oh and a decent social outlet), I would be find working 15 hour days.

The compounding list of silly work that I have to do is annoying. Honestly, I wish I could just make it all go away and work on the two things I really want to do right now.

I think I am going to be keeping my Tahoe. I do not really have a good reason for this, and my parents do not like that I am doing it... but oh well. Such is life.

My parents didn't get me anything for my birthday, which I find to be hilarious. Honestly, I think they didnt even notice/remember.

I do not enjoy being the second parent to my younger sisters. I have decided to give that up for now.

I am henceforth tuning out people that constantly frustrate me. Honestly, it is my best chance at sanity.

I would really like to be a super-hero. No, not because I also want there to be people who need to be saved. In fact, I will add this caveat. I would be okay only having powers when people need to be rescued. Ha, there, I found the logic loophole. Take that social traps! :-)

I enjoy reading and wish I had more time to do so.

I really should start running or biking, or swimming... as I am in horrible shape right now.

Leaving my house is going to be a really good thing... and come at a really good time. Ironically, I think my parents are going to miss me more than I will miss them. No, I am not talking emotionally... I am talking about missing their slave who does all the work around the house. Honestly, most kids go off to college and miss their parents who take care of everything for them. Personally, I think my life should get a fair bit easier once I dont have to take care of my family all of the time. Ha. That is horrible. Seriously though, my mother has already told me that they are selling the house when I move out... apparently, they dont want to do all the chores.

Life is much easier in college than it is living at home. I really enjoy working, dont get me wrong... but annoying family tasks... well, just annoy me.

I have come to the conclusion that I type more with my right hand than I do with my left. Hmmm, I wonder if that is true. It may just be that I just use my right hand to press the space bar.

Thinking about going back to college really makes me laugh.

Random Rant

2008-07-06T17:36:00.000-05:00

sxephil is a character.

vLog

2008-07-03T09:20:00.002-05:00

Sorry it has been so long.... Now if I can just find time to write blog entries... lol.

Random, btw- If you click on the video, it will take you to YouTube where you can see the links I said I would publish. Also, at YouTube, you can choose to view the video in "High Quality"... in case you want to see me in crystal sharp resolution... lol.

Okay. Im done boring you now.

My Mustang

2008-07-02T17:09:00.002-05:00

Better pics are soon to follow... but for now, you get these two blurry pics:

reading & vlogging

2008-07-02T17:04:00.002-05:00

I miss reading and vlogging... seriously. Now that I am crazy busy with Vidoop and Mowing, I dont really find time to just sit down and read or write, or even vlog. I think I will start that up again. If nothing else, maybe it will slow down time a bit. It is crazy that I have already been working for Vidoop for over a month now.

Okay. Its official. I am adding it o my list.

Now on my list of things I am scheduling in my life:
1) 30-40 hours a week at Vidoop
2) 20-30 hours a week mowing.
3) 5 hours a week doing HAPM stuff
4) Reading 4-5 hours a week
5) Vlogging 2 hours a week. (they take an hour to record, process, and upload for each 10 min clip)
6) Eating 4 meals a day.
7) Working out at least 5 days a week.
8) Keeping my room and car clean and organized.
9) Having dinner with my family at least 2 times a week.
10) Finding time to respond to emails and write emails (or messages of some form) to friends.

I figure, if I can pull those off... I will be set .

thought of the day

2008-06-27T15:28:00.001-05:00

I dream in Anime. Seriously.

Video Games that Help

2008-06-27T11:37:00.001-05:00

Finally, our electronic culture starts to be productive...

http://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/multimedia/2008/06/pl_games

Seriously, I think this was an amazing idea.

im a fan

2008-06-26T16:44:00.001-05:00

random thought

2008-06-26T16:38:00.001-05:00

America has killed its president.

No, not Bush... Im talking about any/all presidents.

I should probably explain myself, but I dont really feel like it.

America has killed its president.

life, an observation

2008-06-26T14:17:00.001-05:00

A quote from Finite and Infinite Games

"The rules of the finite game may not change; the rules of an infinite game must change.

Finite players play within boundaries; infinite players play with boundaries.
Finite players are serious; infinite games are playful.
A finite player plays to be powerful; an infinite player plays with strength.
A finite player consumes time; an infinite player generates time.
The finite player aims for eternal life; the infinite player aims for eternal birth.

The choice is yours."

neutrality

2008-06-25T11:32:00.003-05:00

I do not believe in religious neutrality.

In the last several years, it has become a popular phrase to: "accept all religions". In fact, Senator Obama just said it the other day (or so the news tells me). Specifically, he was saying that we are no longer a Christian nation, and that we need to accept "all religions".

Ironically, technically speaking, I do not believe were were ever an entirely Christian nation. Even in the beginning, there were certainly non-Christians. Is he talking about a majority? That cant be it, because we still certainly have a majority of the United States that at least professes to be followers of Christianity.

I believe the point he was getting at is that the minority of non-Christians are rising, and that their religions (or anti-religions) need to have the same equal playing ground as Christianity has.

And this is where I get off that bus. Putting my own personal belief in Christianity aside, and speaking purely philosophically, with regard to theological structures... it is impossible to respect all religions at once, unless of course one takes a stance to ignore them all.

I am a complete supporter in a strict separation of church and state, or at least an attempt for the United States to take a position of ignoring all religious institutions. To me, it makes total sense for a president to choose to reject any and all dabblings in religious institutions. (This of course would necessarily have to include both your deistic religions, those that believe in a God or spirit world, such as Christianity and Islam... as well as your anti/non deistic religions, including atheism and secular humanism)

However, the absolute worst thing that a presidential candidate can do would be to attempt to respect all world religions at once. Not only does this have sever theological ramifications, but philosophically and psy/sociologically this borders on a necessary schizophrenia. As wonderfully beautiful as "accepting of all religions" may sound, it simply is not possible.

In its purest form, a "religion" is a nonnegotiable Truth statement about the world, its parameters, and the very reason for life and existence. It is not an opinion, but a fact in the eyes of its believers. For a president to be accepting of "all contradicting facts" is complete non-sense. In my opinion, a leader of this country should either accept one truth statement, and make decisions from its base while being respectful to those that do not agree (though not to their belief because it directly contradicts his own). Or, he must take a position to not meddle at all in a truth statement at all, which would make for an ironically hilarious method of operation as a leader of a nation, who is constantly required to make pseudo-moral decisions.

It is pure insanity for the leader of the United States of America to say that he accepts everyone's contradicting statements about the truth of existence. Even worse, that he would then try and incorporate all of their positions on public policy.

fickle people

2008-06-24T19:20:00.001-05:00

I dont know why I bend so far for these two people... only to have them constantly tell me that I am doing everything wrong.

Yes, I know, this is totally an emo post... but all the same.

I am done trying to make them happy.

Let's see what happens next.

George Carlin

2008-06-24T10:24:00.002-05:00

There is an old saying about how it is easier to cry over one death than a thousand.
Once the body count rises, death becomes a statistic, not an actual event.... apparently.

I find it amusing how the nation "mourned" for the death of George Carlin. In honesty, he was no different than any other person on earth. For that matter, he is no different than anyone else in the United States. Random stat for you, just to make an observation... approx. 2.4 million people died in the US alone last year. ha. I bet you actually just skimmed that number. I would, in fact, I just did after re-reading this post. 2.4 million people is quite the body count. Sure, many of them died of natural causes, but many of them didnt.

I understand why George Carlin was important/famous, and I am not being disrespectful to him... in fact, this statement is completely irrelevant to him as a person.

That being said, why is it that we will all feel "sad" about the death of one, while ignoring the deaths of millions of others?

I think, perhaps, that I have taken an even worse route to this entire situation. In all honesty, I really dont emotionally associate with this death. (that would be the more politically correct way of saying that I just dont care that he died)

Death is a funny thing like that. I am still not sure why so many people cry over it... and for that matter, are so afraid of it.

Video of the Day.

2008-06-23T22:18:00.000-05:00

It is embarrassing how much I like this song.

HA!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKXm3Qg7sBo

Quote of the Day

2008-06-16T14:24:00.001-05:00

"It is often the clearest minds who are the first to go mad. Then the so-called sanity of the masses is nothing more than the comfortable insanity afforded them by a lack of courage or insight."

NT via Wordle

2008-06-12T13:12:00.003-05:00

New Testament... tagged.

quote of the day

2008-06-12T11:41:00.001-05:00

"The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug."

-Mark Twain

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Downloading the Internet

2008-06-11T17:58:00.001-05:00

I have joked about this before...But now my dreams are getting closer to some sort of realization.

I can now download all of flickr... well, sort of. :-)

I am not sure why I enjoy this so much. Does this make me a nerd? I suppose so. It is just need to know that I dont have to be slowed down by all that ucky user interface non-sense... that stupid "right click and save as" business... none of this "next page, next page, next page"... no banner ads, or textual distractions.

It is just me, terminal, the tag of my choosing... and the world wide web of pictures come to my hard drive... oh happy day.

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Twitter Whore Part 2

2008-06-09T18:18:00.002-05:00

Second video... almost as funny

Twitter Whore

2008-06-09T18:17:00.002-05:00

Seriously... if you are a tweeter... you know this is funny.

Flock

2008-06-05T15:58:00.001-05:00

Seriously,

If you dont use it already... download Flock

It will change your life.

http://flock.com/

Blogged with the Flock Browser

sxephil again...

2008-06-03T17:23:00.000-05:00

Music Vid of the Day

2008-06-03T14:57:00.000-05:00

sxephil

2008-05-31T17:32:00.001-05:00

Random funny...

Random

2008-05-26T13:00:00.002-05:00

Three random thoughts:

Girls fascinate me.

I really like this blue with white stripes.

I check approximately 10 websites (subsets/pages excluded) every day for updates... and I am still not sure if that is a good or bad thing, lol.

Free Time

2008-05-24T20:22:00.001-05:00

I am really lacking in that area of my life.

As soon as I can find some... after I finish breathing, I will write more.

haha

Music Vid of the Day

2008-05-23T10:37:00.004-05:00

This is a sweet song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5VdYqd6CdA

Sorry, YouTube wouldnt let me embed...

Life

2008-05-22T12:55:00.001-05:00

I think the world would be better off without stupid people and people who make threats.

They just make me laugh.

My Car

2008-05-22T12:52:00.001-05:00

hahaha

My 8th cylinder head died on me today.

That makes two engines my Tahoe has killed.

This is just funny.

On to engine number 3!!!

Oh, and goodbye money...

ha

New Job

2008-05-19T22:39:00.001-05:00

It is nice to have a creative challenge that I can be identifiably productive at. My new job is fun. I think I am going to enjoy it.

Choice

2008-05-18T22:51:00.003-05:00

I believe that a person has the capacity to reinvent their self. There is an old saying, that leopards never change their spots... well, I guess it is good that we are humans, and for the most part, spotless. In the end, I think it all comes down to choice.

Choice is really the one thing that defines us as humans. From a physical and spiritual perspective, we exercise a freedom of choice. While continued decisions along a single vein will undoubtedly adjust one's disposition to favor a specific choice, I do not believe that it completely determines it.

Extreme cases aside, I believe that people can change. And yet, at the same time, I have come to accept that many choose not to. Even those who do decided to make a change in their life, are often the ones that seemed to have it coming if you knew them well enough. Often, this is regarded as having a "good heart", or at least a will to change.

I say that to say this. I dont think a person should ever be judged because of their past. The only thing that you can decide from a person's past is to see what direction their choices have led them, but even then, you would only know of their general disposition. Ultimately, as humans, we are defined by the decisions we make.

In any friendship or relationship, physical or spiritual, I believe it is important to be around people who either make good choices, or who wish to make good choices (however you define good is up to you). Change is just a byproduct of time and patience, but the will to change seems to be inherent.

If you ever want to evaluate your friendships or a relationship, try and figure out whether or not they have a will to change (for better or for worse). More than who they are right then or what their past is... that will to change will tell you a lot about where they are going.

This makes sense if you think about it. Ultimately, you live with that person in the future, not in the past, nor the present.

Music Video

2008-05-17T10:20:00.002-05:00

I have posted the lyrics to this song before... as well as some of my thoughts on it.

They just posted the music video for it. Granted, it takes a slightly different direction than I imagined, but the overall theme is the same.

Prepare to think about life... and set through a silly commercial in the beginning. :-)

http://video.universalrepublic.com/?plid=1481452858&v=1534502575&aid=0

(stupid people wouldnt let me embed it, haha.)

If Money was Irrelivent

2008-05-16T22:46:00.004-05:00

This is the car I would be driving...

Hard Choices

2008-05-16T22:42:00.001-05:00

Life is only as difficult as I make it.

I am 100% Gemini

2008-05-16T20:54:00.002-05:00

Gemini is a Mutable Air sign, ruled by Mercury. As the third sign in the zodiac, Gemini is an energetic, charismatic, communicative, witty individual with a child-like fascination with the world and with new experiences. Famous and historical characters sharing this sign include John F. Kennedy, (May 29), Marilyn Monroe (June 1), and Judy Garland (June 10).

The Gemini personality stands out as the zodiac sign that knows something about just about everything, making them good conversationalists and interesting acquaintances. They are inquisitive and quick to digest new information and ideas. Intelligent and logical, but with a lot of nervous energy, Gemini likes to keep busy and expand their horizons whenever opportunities arise, often multitasking between several interests. However, as the sign of the Twins, there is a dual aspect to the Gemini personality, making it difficult for these individuals to stick with any one thing in order to master it, and often making it difficult for bystanders to figure out which side their Gemini friend is really on. Gemini has more than one personality, which can change in a flash, and those near to them would do well to learn them both. On and off, up and down, back and forth, black and white, day and night, ying and yang - this is the essence of the Gemini personality.

For those with a Gemini child, get ready for a ride! These kids can be sweet, cooperative little angles one moment and infuriating monsters the next. Gemini children are very verbal and soak information in like sponges. They therefore tend to master the art of communication quite early, often displaying knowledge beyond their years. This is a high-strung child with a lot of pent-up energy, so don't be surprised if your 6 year old Gemini claims to have "tension headaches" or other physical complaints beyond his years. The Gemini child will not particularly like the rigors of school, but it is likely that he will know to turn on the charm to bluff his way through parts of it. Though he has the intellect to excel in school, it's just not in little Gemini to follow things through to completion, so he will rarely be at the top of his class. Giving him a rich environment at home will help offset this, so be sure to introduce him to nature, sports, music, and reading early on, and also provide stimulation via computers and video games to help broaden his exploratory nature and hold his interest. Gemini kids seem to have a conflict between emotions and intellect, and this can manifest in a variety of ways, often in strange eating habits. Your Gemini might love only red jelly beans or want peanut butter on bread with no jelly and nothing to drink. If you ask about this type of thing, he will blithely tell you that the red ones give him strength or that he has exceptional salivary glands - in his own mind, he is perfectly justified in his choices regardless of how absurd they seem to everyone else. Your best bet is to keep the multi-vitamins handy for these little ones! With regard to other family members, Gemini will entertain and delight and generally get along fine with everyone, unless someone comes along that takes away his limelight, such as a younger sibling. In this case, your little Gemini may turn into a tormenter of this sibling for years to come, and this can be very difficult to control.

Because of his superior communication skills and innate charm, Gemini usually does well at work, with others often seeking them out for advice and new ideas. Conversely, the Gemini worker will not hesitate to seek others out for advice and ideas, always striving to stay on top of the information chain. When interested, Gemini can accomplish more in a day than other signs can accomplish in a week. When disinterested, however, the Gemini worker will procrastinate and eventually move on to more interesting pursuits. No surprise then, that Gemini tends to change jobs and even careers several times during his lifetime. The Gemini's office will have lots of communication devices including computer, phone, Blackberry, cell, and a rolodex full of names, and he will constantly be networking and seeking out new connections. These same traits will also cause the Gemini to tend toward gossip, so if you want to hear the dirt on others, seek out your Gemini co-worker. Gemini can function well in almost any job capacity that he finds interesting, especially those that require lots of communication and interaction with others. With Gemini in a boss or leadership position, however, watch for a strong secretary or assistant that follows behind picking up pieces and finishing undone projects.

If you have found a romantic partner in a Gemini, you have a young at heart lover who wants to try new things and is always looking for a new adventure. The Gemini partner will need a quick wit, and the capacity to change directions on a moment's notice. Gemini will frequently test their partners for loyalty and commitment, so try to keep jealousy and anger at bay, because although the challenge at hand may look like it is external, it is often a situation generated by Gemini himself as a test of your commitment. Additionally, while Gemini is often animated and fun, within a short time this can change to brooding and isolative, so learning when to back off completely is important in this relationship. If Gemini becomes bored within the relationship, he will almost certainly move on, often with no concept of the devastation he is causing, so keeping it fresh and alive over the long term is crucial to holding on to a romantic relationship with a Gemini.

The best matches for Gemini for sure are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, but Aries, Cancer, Taurus, and Leo might also work for some individuals. It will likely be tough going for Virgo and Pisces, which are the least compatible with Gemini.

Gemini in any relationship is smart, witty, fast, and fun. They are the life of the party and have a lot of acquaintances. They seek out others who are smart and adventuresome, and will become quickly bored with those who are homebodies or content with the status quo. Gemini wants to see the world, experience everything, and literally "learn something new every day." He will be a fun and fascinating companion, but some may see him as superficial and "two faced" because his goal is to charm everyone all of the time. On good days, he will be charming and gracious, but on bad days he can be moody and even cruel. Remember, with Gemini, the by-word is "changeable," so learn to expect anything!

Here is a link to more Gemini info.

Car Conundrum.

2008-05-15T00:59:00.001-05:00

Stupid Speed Racer... stupid friends opinions that I value.

Ah, the search for my next vehicle continues....

blah.

2008 Accord

2008-05-14T16:14:00.003-05:00

Ummm, ignore the comparison. This is just to show a video of the car that I am thinking about getting...

Taxes and Social Security

2008-05-14T15:48:00.002-05:00

I dont understand why/how the government allows people to collect Social Security benefits without paying taxes (at some point in their life).

I understand that there is some sort of fail-safe in there so that people who could not physically work are still covered by Social Security. However, I am completely flabbergasted as to how immigrants or tax evaders go year after year collecting Social Security benefits without paying taxes.

Also, just as an other random question... how on earth is it possible for people to get fake social security numbers from which they can receive benefits? I do not understand that at all either...

Democratic Party

2008-05-14T15:46:00.003-05:00

I find it strangely hilarious that the main candidates for the Democratic Part are both running on a minority platform.

Even more funny is that they are actually using that minority status as part of their personal brand.

Silly Americans.

Feminism

2008-05-14T15:39:00.002-05:00

If I go out to dinner with a feminist (as a date)... is proper etiquette that we split the check, or should she pay?

Think about it.

Dress-UP

2008-05-14T12:38:00.003-05:00

I think it is about time I change the way that I dress. I am in the middle of a giant re-organization of my room and belongings... and I have decided that I believe I am ready to step up the way I dress. In truth, this is spawned by several things. The first is that I have nearly outgrown all of my clothing... which is cool, and yet expensive at the same time. Plus, there is the whole internal emotional makeover that is pushing me to change... hence the random "I want to shave my head"... which may be coming up soon. Right now, I just got a short haircut... but if this doesnt suit me, the buzzer will be my fate, lol.

Seriously though, I have a lot of random stuff in my life. Clothes, gadgets, books, and tons of memories. Right now, I am reorganizing all of that... and it is interesting. Yes, this is both literal and metaphorical. At first, it was just out of necessity, to clean out the junk I have accumulated... but now that I am into the thick of it all, more than just a "clean-up" is in order... I need a complete overhaul.

Changing the way you dress is a good way to get into a rhythm of change. For the most part, I do not dress intentionally. However, I think that is about to change. I am not going to go on a giant shopping spree just yet... as I need to find a weight that I will settle at. However, with the clothes I have, I believe I can start to make that change.

Also, I am looking at buying a new phone, a new laptop, and a new car soon.. though not necessarily in that order. When the iPhone comes out, Im going to be rocking it. Then, the new MacBook Pro (with beveled edges and black keys!!), and lastly, I will be buying a new car. Right now, it looks like the new Honda Accord Coupe will do the trick. It is abosoultly beautiful in blue, and on the highway, it should get close to 30mpg... which is approx. double what I get now, lol. I am on the lookout for an EXL, with an Automatic Transmission. I drove one the other day, and it seems nice. Granted, there are other cars I would probably prefer driving, but none of which are even remotely close to my price range, lol.
Let me know what you think:

Okay, now I really need to eat. I will let you know how the life re-organization goes. :-)

Music and Such

2008-05-13T23:15:00.002-05:00

I love listening to the violin and watching it being played.

I would like to make sweet music with a violinist.

That's all I'm saying...

Video/Song of the Day

2008-05-13T23:11:00.001-05:00

Dont try a literal translation/interpretation of the lyrics... I just like the song for itself.

:-)

Wind Farms

2008-05-13T22:31:00.003-05:00

I am all for green technologies. Not so much because I care about the environment... but moreso because I think that they are really cool, and smog is yucky.

That being said, I have a general question about them. This question applies to geothermal generators (the ones that are powered by the earth's heat), as well as Wind Turbine Farms... though, I think my question will make more sense if we just think about it in terms of a Wind Farm.

Okay, here it goes:

How do Wind Turbine not mess up the environment by slowing down the natural wind currents? I was under the impression that wind was like the tides... an environmental equilibrium system. Correct me if I am wrong here, but all that "wind" is, is the merging of hot an cool bodies of air... where in, the hot bodies flow the to cold bodies, causing air to move, and thus wind.

If large farms of Wind Turbines are setup, wouldn't that slow down the equalization of temperature globally? Sure, it would be fractional and miniscule at best, but doesnt every percentage count? In the same regard, how are geothermal generators not doing the same thing? When the earth needs to release energy/heat, it rises through specific areas. Modern people want to place generators over that area to convert the released heat into usable energy. While I appreciate the technology, doest that make the atmosphere in the area generally cooler? Sure, the heat will be released again later (thanks to a handy Newton's law), but not where it was intended to be released.

This all bothers me. The earth has a natural cycle to it... and it seems that some of these technologies, while not as harmful as burning hydrocarbons, arent quite the savors they are cracked up to be. I just dont understand why nobody ever talks about this side effect to these "green technologies".

While pondering this today, I came up with my own generator... and it uses two energy sources that are self-replenishing: gravity and magnetism. As many of you know, there is already a technology in place that is using the moon's gravity to create electricity... essentially, wave generators are placed in the ocean, and use the tide (and thus moon's gravity indirectly) to generate electricity. Well, obviously I have the same problem with that as I do the Wind Farms... so here is my idea: We should take water out of the picture completely.

Essentially, instead of water, we could use a lop-sided magnetic sphere that would float above its cradle via magnetism. Then, as the moon rotates the earth, it would spin the sphere ever-so slowly, just as it pulls and releases the water. However, instead of bouncing a generating buoy in the water, you connect a generator to the sphere and allow its rotation to create electricity.

I think it would work... just like my African Glass Water Pipeline / Electric Generator. :-)

Oh, you know... my solution to saving all of Africa... hehe

Lost Thoughts

2008-05-12T22:28:00.002-05:00

I really dont like Kate.

Juliet is a machine.

Okay, back to the show...

but but but

2008-05-12T22:08:00.001-05:00

But I dont wanna be evil...

Money

2008-05-11T15:22:00.001-05:00

It takes an absolutely absurd amount of money to live comfortably.

Since I've Been Gone...

2008-05-10T20:42:00.001-05:00

Since I have been out of college... I have become more stupider.

I rest my case.

ha

Ah memories...

2008-05-10T19:38:00.001-05:00

Some songs make you remember the taste of rain.

new song

2008-05-10T19:06:00.003-05:00

This is officially the song of the day....

The video/performance is awesome. They apparently performed with the music playing backwards... and this is what happens when the tape was reversed. Watch for the close-ups.... it is sweet.

Plus, irrelevant of the video... I just like this song, lol.

Thursday vLog

2008-05-09T01:18:00.000-05:00

Thursday vLog... posted on Friday because of my stupid/slow PowerBook... haha

I need a new MacBook Pro!! Anybody want to buy me one!?!?

:-)

LisaNova of the Day

2008-05-09T00:45:00.002-05:00

I mainly am posting this because at moments... her eyes FREAKING SCARE ME!

haha, it appears that she is in fact a Obama fan... that, or she has a wicked strange sense of affection.

Enjoy!

Hanson Lyrics

2008-05-08T22:49:00.003-05:00

On the new Hanson CD, there is a song called "The Great Divide"...

I have a question about one of the lyrics. Every time I play it for someone, they are like "wow, that is really cool"... however, I still dont understand this one line that apprently everyone else just loves. I posted the lyrics below, and bolded the line I do not understand the significance of. Please, comment back with your interpretations.

Oh, and below the lyrics is youtube video with the song... if you want to listen to it, lol.

Thee earth is shaking under siege
And every breath will meet its fate
Still we hunger for a moment of freedom
Even though the hour is late

I find hope and it gives me rest
I find hope in a beating chest
I find hope in what eyes don't see
I find hope in your hate for me
Have no fear when the waters rise
We can conquer this great divide

When every eye is on the fortune
It can only breed contempt
They say blood is thicker than oceans
Still we box our brothers in

I find hope and it gives me rest
I find hope in a beating chest
I find hope in what eyes don't see
I find hope in your hate for me
Have no fear when the waters rise
We can conquer this great divide

Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo
Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo
Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo
And we're gone
And we're gone
And we're holding on

And we're holding on
And we're holding on

I find hope and it gives me rest
I find hope in a beating chest
I find hope in what eyes don't see
I find hope in your hate for me
Have no fear
Have no fear when the waters rise
We can conquer this great divide

Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo
Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo
Whoa, ooo, ooo, ooo

Renting a Car

2008-05-08T12:04:00.002-05:00

I Have been told all my life... you cant rent a car until you are 25.

Turns out, my parents were lying to me all this time.

You CAN rent a car... as long as you pay a surcharge.

If you are 21-24, that surcharge for a Chevy Cobalt is around $15 a day... which really isnt that bad.

Craziness...

Law and Order on The Island

2008-05-08T03:00:00.004-05:00

So, I am trying to catch up on Lost...hence the 3am post.

Right now, I am about a 1/4th the way into Season 3.

On the show, there is this "Utopian" group that is trying to create an ideal society.... Irrelevant of all the weird things that happens in this Utopia... there is something specifically that I have noticed.

While they are very "peaceful" and "idealistic"... when it comes to necessary death or punishment, they really show no mercy. They display all of these characteristics of a Utopian society, striving for an ideal way to live and operate. In their system, there is no police or ruling government. And yet, when action is necessary, they are direct and to the point. Once more, they almost seem cold about it.

I think I like their disposition in that regard. I took a personality test once, telling me what country I should live in. The test said that I should have been born in "New Mother Russia"... the description was this:

You are gruff and hostile, have little need for early possessions, and are a fearsome and intimidating person. You therefore are best suited as a Russian. You likely smoke cigarettes, and although you may hold socialist or communist tendencies, you are willing to give capitalism and democracy a fair shake. You are proud and usually loyal, and are willing to make a bargain, especially if it means expanding the reach of your control. You sometimes don't know when to stop or what is best for you, often because you don't care.

haha... it is a bit extreme. However, I do see that part of my personality. While I do value love, life, and peace... there is a side of me that finds action/death a necessary evil. Sometimes it is necessary to "lay down the law", so as to protect the rights of others.

Just a random observation.

Love and Such

2008-05-07T17:43:00.004-05:00

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Domination

2008-05-07T12:14:00.003-05:00

Why is it that in marriages, there is always a dominate partner? Most of the marriages that I know of have a fairly apparent dominate partner of the pair. Often times, they are the more aggressive, angrier one of the two.

Is it necessary for their to be a "dominate" partner?... if so, can that person be the Alpha without holding their position by being a bully? Does leadership always have to come by intimidation, or can it come through consent?

My parents have a good marriage. They are both crazy stubborn, but they both really respect each other. I suppose my mother plays the submissive one, but she certainly stands up for herself. Fortunately, my father respects her enough to never run over her. Really, I think my parents marriage is kind of like our system of government. My father is the Senate and my mother is the President. My father makes the laws, but my mother still has some amount of veto power and the capacity to start legislation herself.

Do you think that this whole dominate/submissive trait usually found in relationships is necessary and inevitable, or could it just be a byproduct of selfish people?

In an ideal marriage or relationship, could two people be actual equals?

Video of the Day

2008-05-07T12:13:00.002-05:00

If you told me this was a GAP commercial... I would totally believe you, lol.

Seriously, look at the way all of them are dressed. haha

Cool Blog

2008-05-07T00:34:00.001-05:00

I like this site...

http://lifehacker.com/

:-)

Relationships, and the great Change

2008-05-06T23:36:00.002-05:00

Ah LisaNova... haha

Why is it that men and women approach relationships so differently? Are girls attracted to guys because of a projected "capacity for manipulation"? Even going back to my last post... I could see a girl helping push a guy in a direction he already wanted to change... but it is just an absolute disaster when girls push guys to change to fit their mold... instead of promoting a guy to grow into more of himself.

It would be totally amazing if two people could be together, and only become better versions of their self (more confident, capable, etc.), instead of having to change and adapt so radically to "make their love work".

Here is a more gender neutral statement: Is there something inherently wrong with men, or something inherently wrong with women that needs changing? Or are we only seeing this "adjustment period" occur so radically because people are "falling in love with" people that are in no way a good match for them?

Another question: Would relationships work better if we waited to "date" (or whatever), until after we had a better sense of ourself and who we want to be?

Just some thoughts... only somewhat relevant to the video... lol

Predestined to Marry

2008-05-06T22:18:00.003-05:00

I have written a few posts now about my concept of "the one", and while it makes sense to me, I believe it has come across as a bit too ethereal for some... that being said, I would like to start this post by letting you know that I am in fact, NOT crazy. As much evidence as their may be... I am certainly a bit tweaked, and certainly not normal... however, I am not totally detached with reality just yet. haha

Today I was thinking about some of my past relationships. (blah topic, no worries.. I wont be on it for long) Not too long ago, there was a girl that I really thought I was going to marry. Long story short, I came to the conclusion that I did not want to spend my life with someone that carried her general disposition towards life. Ending that relationship was horrible on me. At this point, I have been through at least 4 very serious relationships, and that one was my great hope in the salvation of my heart, lol.

In that relationship, like many others that I have been in, I am absolutely certain that I could have married the girl, and lived my pseudo-happily ever after. Sure there would be a lot of give and take. We would probably need counseling now and then (but who doesn't these days), and I am sure, by the grace of God, things would have worked out just find.

Because of my decision to end several of these relationships, I have often been criticized as a perfectionist or to grandiose of an idealist. Ironically though, I was just trying to find a life I wanted, instead of tolerating a life I did not. Now, on to the point of this entire entry.

I believe that we have the capacity to choose. In fact, I think that our choices are one of the things that really defines us as humans and as individuals. Knowing that the decision as to who you want to marry, and then (hopefully) spend the rest of your life with is one of the biggest decision you will ever make (and continue making every day you stay with them), I think it is pretty easy to conclude that your decision in marriage greatly defines you as a person. Ironically, most people look at marriage as choice as to the person you want to spend your life with. This entry contends another side of the decision.

The person you choose to marry will define you as a person. On a humorous shallow level, we can see this in marrying a "major hottie"... if you are married to a hot person, that makes you hot... or at least lucky or funny (take your pick). You also see this on a more tragic stage, where many older men marry younger women because it makes them feel young, or like an Alpha again. In that same way, I believe we can conclude that in some way, your partner will define you as a person. By choosing to spend life with them and their personality, you are not only saying something about yourself, but you are also saying a very strong statement about who you want to be.

When we go to choose a partner for life, I strongly contend that we should look at not only who they are as a person right now, but what direction they want to go in life. I laugh when people call me a perfectionist, because in truth, I am far from it. In fact, I find great beauty in the imperfections of life. The same applies to a relationship. I do not think I should look for that "perfect person, with their perfect looks and perfect attributes"... but rather, I think choosing someone that I want to spend my life with is finding someone with a perfectly beautiful desired direction in life. By that, I mean, it is a given that people will change over time. Instead of trying to find someone who is everything you know your spouse to be NOW... I think it is better to find the person that is growing in the direction of that "perfect man/woman".

One of the biggest "turn-offs" I have seen in any girl is a strong will to NOT change. While the independence is cute/noble, and while I completely support having some foundational morals that never change... life just doesn't work like that. Life is all about change, about adapting, about growing. If you do not want to grow or change or improve, then you better run like hell from marriage NOW. In the same light, whoever that "special someone" is... I think it is really important to see how they are looking at their own life, and what kind of person they want to become in life. While it is good to be matched now, it is even better to be matched for LIFE.

When you marry someone, or even when you are in a long term relationship with someone, you are making a choice, and thus a statement. By investing yourself into them, you are not only saying who you are in life right now, but you are also telling yourself and the world who you want to become. I certainly have ideals about the woman that I want to marry... but much more than ideals, I have direction that I want to go in life (not so much a path, but a direction).

So, what now (because I am in singledom) - Every day, I am orienting myself in that direction... the person I want to be, the values I want to hold, the things I want to do, the environment I want to life in and give off... and one day, when life is ready for me to have partner, I will find someone who has also taken the "road less traveled by". In such a way, I suppose looking for "the one", is not like looking for a needle in a haystack, but more-so like finding a carpool buddy a third the way into the trip. (haha, I love this analogy!)

There comes a day when it is time for me to be married. On that day, I am confident that there will be a friend with me on this crazy overgrown path. Then, the decision is simple. At that point, it doesn't matter who (specifically) they are, or what traits they have right then. The important part is that we are headed in the same direction in life, walking side by side (and not just because one of us was following the other, lol)

I think it is easy to say that there are many people that you could marry. However, for you to "be all you can be", I think there is one person that you will marry. The good news is... it is all up to me and you. With this disposition, I am contending that we should not choose our spouse directly, but rather, we should choose our life first, and then let that life choose our spouse. I believe this is only way to find a true "life partner", without seeing radical and detrimental compromise occurring from both sides.

Those are my thoughts. I hope it at least partially made sense, lol

Music of the Day

2008-05-06T02:59:00.002-05:00

Random fact many people dont know about me.... I listen to country music while I mow.

One of my favorite songs... partially because it mentions Oklahoma in it, lol.

Privacy is for women... literally

2008-05-06T01:24:00.002-05:00

I like that I am easy to find. I think that any person, armed with at least a small quantity of intelligence and a decent search engine could find me.

I would not advise this disposition for women... as there are a lot of really crazy/creepy men out there.

For me though, this works. I use to straddle the fence, keeping some things private, being only somewhat open about my personal identity. I was never as good as some of my acquaintances at being "totally private"...Now though, Im an open book... or rather, blog/vlog... lol.

If you have any question for me, feel free to ask. I am always up for making new friends... well, as long as you arent mean. I dont like mean people very much.

I know... I need to write more. Sorry to all. I have been painting all day yesterday and most of the day today. More blogging starting tomorrow... I pseuo-promise. (its like crossing your fingers, but only kinda)

life and such

2008-05-04T23:44:00.001-05:00

I take life way to seriously.

Enough said.

Tomorrow will be a good day.

My life

2008-05-04T03:57:00.003-05:00

I have a freaking cool life right now.

I have a job that I can make a lot of money at, that allows me to be outside in the sun.

I have hours of spare time every day... and between now and Aug 15th, I get to use that time to prepare myself as a person however I choose.

I have a direction I want my life to go.

Now, it is just up to me.

Growing Up

2008-05-04T00:33:00.004-05:00

To some extent, I find part of my identity in being a capable conversationalist on a large variety of topics.

Because of that, I find it ironic that, for me, "growing up" (especially as of late) has primarily entailed me learning when to NOT speak.

It is just funny.

I wrote blog about how I think we should all be kids. If I was a kid, I would yell and talk about everything... I know this, because as a kid, I ran around talking about and questioning everything.

Now that I am an adult, I am finding that the best way to not upset people, and to keep my conversations with people being productive... is to say only about a third of what I want to say, lol.

I keep a blog and vlog... they are my outlets. However, many times... there are many areas of my life where I wish I didn't have to be so cordial. Many times, I miss the brashness, or rather, the frankness of my youth.

I guess this is where the patience comes in....

American Idol

2008-05-04T00:27:00.008-05:00

I really do not like American Idol... for many reasons.

Especially since my only reason to watch the show is gone:

Yes, yes... I know she is married.. no worries. I am not going there. She was just such a cute girl to watch.

I think the person I am going to end up spendng my life with will be similar to her.

Is that a weird thing to say? Oh well... haha

girls girls girls

2008-05-03T20:46:00.001-05:00

**prepare yourself for me regressing back to junior high**

Girls are confusing.

I could write more... but that is really all I want to say.

Okay, Im done.

haha

While I Mow

2008-05-03T20:43:00.002-05:00

I do a large part of my thinking while I mow...

Oh if I could blog or twitter from the tractor...

On second though, it is probably better that I cant :-)

Mowing

2008-05-03T13:30:00.003-05:00

I am cutting back on my hours at the office to go and mow full time. The summer is here, and it is time to keep the yard managed.

Mowing a front yard is ridiculous enough... mowing Bermuda grass in Tulsa is twice as ridiculous, as I think our water-table here contains miracle-grow.... mowing 35 acres is just plain insane. From start to finish, the grass I have to mow takes approx. 25-30 hours, and that is of pure, hard work... not including maintenance of the equipment or gass/ oil/ wire refills. Now here is the fun part: when summer gets into full gear, I have to do that once a week... and sometimes parts have to be hit twice a week (a 5 hour section).

30-35 hours of outdoor labor a week, in a humid 105 degree climate is insane. Plus, every mow puts me into thick poison ivy... which my body does not like thus far... Working 5 days a week, that is being outside at least 6 hours a day...

Well, at least it pays well. :-) And by well, I honestly mean better than any other job i could get this summer... including a technical/computer job. Craziness...

Oh, and I get a free tan and my hair is nicely highlighted by the sun... haha.

Batman vs. Iron Man

2008-05-03T12:57:00.001-05:00

hahaha... because they are my idols.

Friday vLog

2008-05-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

Harry Potter

2008-05-03T02:04:00.003-05:00

haha... I think I may like this just b/c it is so late....

"For the Order of the Pheonix... I was like, fries and a coke!!"... haha

Hope you Enjoyed!

Time Off

2008-05-02T23:15:00.005-05:00

I am really thankful for this time off... from school, from friends, from a relationship. I am finally enjoying the person I have become... or rather am becoming.

Time away from people has really been good for me. It is really put life in perspective. I have finally resolved that I have no clue what I am going to be doing the rest of my life... and I dont know that I ever will know the answer to that question. I am no longer planning my life out.

I am starting with the basics, and just working from there every day.

My basics:
My family means the world to me, and they deserve to be treated as such.
I am working on becoming a more efficient person, but a life partner would really do me some good... and I am sure make me more effective in life.
I am progress oriented... no matter what I do today, it should be productive, in some way.
I look forward to having a family some day... but until that day, it is best for me to form myself into the kind of person that my children would be proud of.
I enjoy teaching as much as I enjoy learning.
At the end of the day, my life is a journey... and along that road, there will be people for me to help, a family for me to raise, and a life for me to live. All I expect from my life is that once I am gone, those who once shared my path would find their journey a little bit more enjoyable, and hopefully, their path a bit more directed towards loving God and loving others.

My life is simple. I live, I eat, I work, I laugh, I love, I learn, I teach.

There is a woman out there that I need, desperately. One day we will connect, and I have great expectancy of our life together. Until then, I am just soaking up life.

5 Reasons why I should be Iron Man

2008-05-02T18:16:00.007-05:00

Reason #1

I am crazily interested in the same technologies implemented by Tony Stark in the Iron man suit... mainly the capacity to fly, and the entire visual computer interface.

Reason #2

I have long since had a fascination with having my own tech/car garage... I dont know where it came from, but since I was a kid, I have always wanted a big garage/workshop. Tony Stark has one... and I believe I should as well.

Reason #3

Everyone knows that a person should always have a friend in the military... and that redheads have the capacity to be extremely attractive (if you can find one that doesnt want to kill you).

Reason #4

I am looking at changing vehicles... and next to a 335xi... if I had the money, I would get this car:

Reason #5

Everyone knows that I am a patriot... and this is by far the best way to do it. He is influential around all the right people, he has a crazy attractive woman who completely compliments him, he is wealthy, but uses his wealth for good, and he is wicked smart, but still funny and friendly.

The only question that remains is... how does one become Tony Stark esque... In all reality, it is completely possible. I am not saying I want to be a superhero... but I def. see advantages to operating in his lifestyle. Ah, decisions decisions...

If you havent, go see the movie. You wont regret it. :-)

Progression of Man

2008-05-02T14:44:00.003-05:00

Today was my last day teaching. This song contains my last lesson...

Listen to Handlebars by Flobots. You can find it here

This song is all about the progression of man... the rise of power, and the corruption of that same power.

Lyrics:

I can ride my bike with no handlebars
No handlebars
No handlebars

I can ride my bike with no handlebars
No handlebars
No handlebars

Look at me, look at me
hands in the air like it's good to be
ALIVE
and I'm a famous rapper
even when the paths're all crookedy
I can show you how to do-si-do
I can show you how to scratch a record
I can take apart the remote control
And I can almost put it back together
I can tie a knot in a cherry stem
I can tell you about Leif Ericson
I know all the words to "De Colores"
And "I'm Proud to be an American"
Me and my friend saw a platypus
Me and my friend made a comic book
And guess how long it took
I can do anything that I want cuz, look:

I can keep rhythm with no metronome
No metronome
No metronome

And I can see your face on the telephone
On the telephone
On the telephone

Look at me
Look at me
Just called to say that it's good to be
ALIVE
In such a small world
I'm all curled up with a book to read
I can make money open up a thrift store
I can make a living off a magazine
I can design an engine sixty four
Miles to a gallon of gasoline
I can make new antibiotics
I can make computers survive aquatic conditions
I know how to run a business
I can make you wanna buy a product
Movers shakers and producers
Me and my friends understand the future
I see the strings that control the systems
I can do anything with no assistance
Cuz I can lead a nation with a microphone
With a microphone
With a microphone
And I can split the atoms of a molecule
Of a molecule
Of a molecule

Look at me
Look at me
Driving and I won't stop
And it feels so good to be
Alive and on top
My reach is global
My tower secure
My cause is noble
My power is pure
I can hand out a million vaccinations
Or let'em all die from exasperation
Have'em all healed from their lacerations
Have'em all killed by assassination
I can make anybody go to prison
Just because I don't like'em and
I can do anything with no permission
I have it all under my command
Because I can guide a missile by satellite
By satellite
By satellite
And I can hit a target through a telescope
Through a telescope
Through a telescope
And I can end the planet in a holocaust
In a holocaust
In a holocaust
In a holocaust
In a holocaust
In a holocaust

I can ride my bike with no handlebars
No handlebars
No handlebars

I can ride my bike with no handlebars
No handlebars
No handlebars

Think about it.

Blogging... old school

2008-05-02T00:08:00.003-05:00

In case you havent noticed... I am trying to mix my new-school blogging with some old-school tactics.

I wrote a post a little while ago about the original purpose of a "blog" here.

That being said... I am going to mix the two mediums. My blog now has the purpose of updating you on my thoughts, questions, and opinions on random life topics... in addition to that, however, now I am also going to share cool things across the internet that I find.

For example, today, I shared several youtube videos... adding comments to each one, to show you why I am sharing it. I think this will be a good direction for my blog to go. No worries, I am not just posting random videos that entertain me... as each has a thought or purpose (of some random sort) behind it. Trust me, I am not just looking for "fillers" here. Rather, I have finally accepted that sometimes you need more than words to convey thoughts.

So, that all being said... here is a cool link I came across today. It is another blog actually. I think you all might enjoy it.

http://www.hackcollege.com/

This is a site that talks all about blogging/ cyber-social tech. Enjoy!

Democratic Process

2008-05-01T23:30:00.004-05:00

There are several things I do not understand right now...

First, after watching an episode of Boston Legal last night... I was suddenly made aware that we dont actually live in a democracy. Apparently, and I was totally unaware of this... but a person's votes actually are only a suggestion. When the people of the United States vote in the primaries... they are actually only suggesting who is nominated for their respective party (Democrat or Republican). It turns out that "delegates" actually make that decision for the people.

Right now, the Democratic national party is in a bit of a bind... as the race between Obama and Hillary is so tight that neither side can win by a large enough margin. Now, the race is to see who can obtain the greatest number of "delegates"... which means, the choice for the democratic national candidate rests in the hands of something like 4,000 people... and not in the hands of millions of Americans.

Putting the irony of all this aside, I really have only one question: Does anybody know, for fact, the difference between Obama and Clinton's proposed changes to the United States? I hear a lot of speculation, but I can no figure out, in plain and simple English, what it is that Obama and Hillary wish to actually change about the United States... and how their plans differ.

And what I really can no figure out is... why we arent doing anything about the national debt... Yes, yes... I know there are apparently "bigger issues" to deal with... but the increasing national debt certainly isnt helping. Right now, I believe we are around 9.5 trillion dollars in debt.... $9.5 trillion. At our current rate, we are accumulating over $1.5 billion in debt per day. Not only does this rape our economy... but it is also butchering our gas prices and our international trade.

Just to put this into perspective for you... if we had a $9.5 trillion surplus... invested at 8% gain annually... the government would be making over $2 billion dollars a day, just from the accumulated interest. (yes, I know that is not the way gov money works... this is just to make a point) There are so many problems in America right now that would be radically helped with the assistance of money.

That being said... I think it is about time the US Gov worked on some fundamentals. In reality, it seems that current politicians are like fire fighters who run into a building without their gear on because they heard screaming. While their programs/ approaches may seem noble... in the long run, it is best to prepare yourself for full service, so that you can serve generations to come... and not just die a martyr.

Personal analogy: It is like me going to college. Sure, I could run off and start life now... but in the long run, I will be better equipped spending these next few years on ME. It is hard, because there is so much to do in life... but it is necessary.

I wish our government would get the same message. I wish the US people would start thinking more long term... and I mean that on many levels.

Smallville

2008-05-01T21:32:00.003-05:00

Ideal match, take 2

This is Kara from Smallville. She is Clark's cousin... haha. Yes, I am a Smallville fan... you can laugh later. Right now, just kick back and enjoy the beauty of supergirl.

News of the Day

2008-05-01T17:06:00.002-05:00

Favorite Lines:

Do you know you could have killed someone: "Yeah, but I just wanted to do hoodrat things with my friends"...

Do you think you should be punished: "Yeah, like no videogames for a whole weekend"...

Amazing.

Ascending Saiyajin

2008-05-01T14:01:00.004-05:00

You would have to follow the show to understand this... but the idea is that through channeling passion/ rage, you can change your state of being... and have more power.

The first time Goku ascends to Super Saiyajin, it is extremely hard for him. By this time in the series, he can go to Super Saiyajin and Ascended Saiyajin, no problem. Eventually, he can reach Super Saiyjin 3.

The point is, there are different states of being that we can operate in... and reaching the next level (which ever one that is for us then) is very difficult. Once you have been there though, the transformation to that state becomes much easier.

DBZ

2008-05-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

My profile picture on facebook is from DBZ, lol. I find that show to be so amazing... not for pure entertainment... the show inspires me. It has this general theme that rage/ passion, when channeled, can make a difference in life. Plus, when they go Super Saiyajin, their hair turns blond. :-)

I like that hope.

Here is a music video from DBZ that may explain some things...

Life 2.0

2008-05-01T13:46:00.001-05:00

Music

2008-05-01T13:28:00.003-05:00

Music makes my world go round, and round, and round.... haha

Seriously though, we are doing a unit on music in my class... and I am really enjoying it. Specifically, we are talking about how music describes us as people, articulates our moods better than words, and can even be used to set a mood or disposition.

More often than not, people let their music choose them. What I mean by that is... you "choose" songs that reflect the mood you are in, and not necessarily the mood you want to be. If I know how you are feeling and what your perspective on life is... I could probably predict what music you are "choosing". The closest most people come to setting their own mood with music is probably when they workout. (dates dont count, because usually you are trying to set someone else's mood)

My question is, if we know music is so powerful, why dont we choose songs that reflect the emotions we desire, and only listen to them? Or is it essential/ necessary for us to express or rather, relate to our own moods with our music, for better or for worse? Should we use music as a tool to amplify our current state, or should we use it to direct our state?

My class is doing a unit on Utopias, where in they are trying to build their own utopia. Next class, I am going to ask them a question: Do we want to control the music, so as to control the disposition of the citizen in the Utopia, or should we grant them the drug of music to allow them to do as they wish?

What do you all think?

Vulnerability

2008-05-01T13:19:00.002-05:00

This is such a great music video about the necessary vulnerability of a relationship... and the beautiful and seemingly unpredicted pay-off.

Be sure to watch it to the end...

Stop Motion

2008-05-01T13:16:00.000-05:00

I love this faux/pseduo stop motion video...

Music Video

2008-05-01T13:13:00.001-05:00

This woman is amazing...

This song makes me want to cry... I mean... umm... I dont cry. Psh. :-)